Review by Steve Bennett

Jimeoin has years, seemingly decades, of experience, evident in the sheer professionalism of his slick, perfectly timed set and the ice-cool insouciance with which he delivers every line. It’s made him a star of some stature in Australia, which he’s made his home, even if he’s not managed to achieve the same status in Britain or his native Ireland.

But you know you’re in safe hands from the moment he picks up the microphone, as he skilfully launches into one of the best openings in the business, nonchalantly striding the stage, supposedly searching for its funniest point, to a guaranteed reaction of barely-stifled chuckles.

From then on in, it’s a catalogue of impressively effective observations, all mimed out with  a polished physicality (his well-trained eyebrows being particularly effective at making a point). His writing’s lean, too. Getting to each gag with perfect phrasing, pace and rhythm, he offers a masterclass in delivery, advanced level, to match.

Jimeoin may not be demolishing any comedic boundaries, but he’s a hugely accomplished operator within the safety zone. To be extra churlish, I could mention hat his set could do with being rotated a bit quicker than it is if he’s to avoid resting on these hard-earned laurels; but there have been renewed – and very welcome - signs of activity on that front, too.

Review date: 20 Jun 2005
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett