Brighton Fringe review by Steve Bennett

As advertised, Matt Hutson and David McIver are a couple of meek, quietly-spoken rookie comedians, sharing a Brighton Fringe bill.

Hutson - officially the second funniest new stand-up in Preston, thanks to a competition placing – opens the show with a few universal, if unrevelatory, quips about his modest life and office job.

But they are merely appetisers for his musical comedy: a series of softly-sung ballads – a bit James Blunty – either about his desperation to secure a girlfriend, or with dirty lyrics in juxtaposition with the tender melodies.

The low-energy, lulling songs are amiable enough, although the comedy is not so distinctive. Sometimes the choruses seem to exist to delay an otherwise rather straightforward reveal, and elsewhere the inspiration is only the smallest step beyond the superficial. Hutson is a nice enough guy with a nice enough voice, but without the ‘wow’ factor.

David McIver makes an instant impression, taking to the stage wrapped in a Twister mat. It’s typical of his quirky, prop-based comedy that seems born of an awkward young man mucking about with the contents of his bedroom, and playing with his imaginary friends.

There’s an invention to his varied skits, although the ‘shy guy’ demeanour is probably more setback than selling point; the silliness would surely work better if he committed to it, rather than appearing semi-apologetic about his work.

Audience participation fits in the same mould, as he coyly persuades equally hesitant punters to join him in his make-believe. It’s charming and playful, even if almost all of the skits need a stronger end game to really make a mark. If McIver can harness a bit more confidence in performance without sacrificing the meek outsider persona, this act could grow into something delightfully ridiculous.

Review date: 8 May 2016
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett