Review by Steve Bennett

The set itself stems from his middle-aged grumpiness. At 43, he’s a proto-Meldrew, grumbling intolerantly at the young people, his own body letting him down and the general state of the world today. Although physically not that old, he sounds so middle-aged he even talks about ‘pottering’ around the house.

This is a perfect standpoint from which to tease the under-25s that make up a sizeable chunk of comedy club audiences, cheekily mocking their strange youthful ways like any bemused dad would.

There is an element of hackneyed thinking in some of his less enlightened topics – especially backwardness and incense among rural folk, an faux incomprehension of sex toys, or the effects today’s super-strength dope has on him. But other parts of the routine are topical, punny or polemic; combining a wide range of styles.

While the material may be inconsistent, the performance can’t be faulted; a relentless, gag-driven stream of tongue-in-cheek complaints delivered with economy. He will simply grind you down with the incessant onslaught of ‘what’s all that about?’ observations.

Years of experience of handling a crowd means you’re always safe in his hand. Maybe sometimes a little too safe, but safe nonetheless.

Review date: 1 Oct 2008
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett