Impromptu Horne Section. The Invisible Dot HQ.

This tweet form Alex Horne saw my friends and I heading to Camden on Monday night unexpectedly. I like free things, especially good free things.

A few new bits were tried out on front of a sympathetic audience including a new song by Joe Auckland for the female Battleships captain, spotlight on the saxophonist, Mark Brown (where Horne described the saxophone as a "metal snake" and Brown made 'Kumbaya' sound sexy), and an improvised song by Tim Key.

Key just gets better and better. LONG LIVE TIM KEY.

The guests included Johann Lippowitz (who mimed the words to Natalie Imprulia's 'Torn'), Brett Domino (doing a Justin Timberlake medley), an opera singing police officer and The Wagon Tales.

A thought.

The staff at American Apparel on Oxford St. are some of the rudest people I have ever encountered. Just because they're cool doesn't mean they can behave like a cunts.

Knock2bag. Bar FM.

Knock2bag always have seriously good line-ups and is close to home, but I rarely manage to go. I shall have to rectify my ways. The only thing that put me off was that it didn't finish until really, really late (I am 25 years old).

The gig was compered by Colin Hoult. The first half he played Anna Mann and the second half he played Andy Parker; I preferred Andy. I'm not sure if Hoult has compered many gigs in the past, but I really enjoyed his style - he's great at thinking on his feet while staying in character.

It was my first time seeing Daniel Simonsen, Flange Krammer and Totally Tom and they were all COMPLETELY ACE. I really related to Simonsen's awkward/shy material. Totally Tom were quite Footlighsesque.

Wasn't sure about Cardinal Burns on this occasion... eavesdropping in the interval, i'm not sure those around us did either.

Loved Paul Foot's two jokes, especially the first one. I'd like a pair of "van glasses" if only to remind me of this wonderful, lengthy joke. I can't wait to see Ash in the Attic at Soho Theatre in a few weeks.

My friend, Anna, wrote this review for the British Comedy Guide.

A thought.

I used to pretend that I was a Doctor who found cures for my sick doll a lot when I was younger. More often than not, my doll had AIDS.

Working Title. Leicester Square Theatre.

This Working Title gig was a little bit different to the last one; still in the work-in-progress stages. The first half of the show saw Humphrey Ker hosting and Laura Solon, David Reed and Andrew Pugsley participating. Humphrey was handed a piece of paper with a book title and a blurb on it and the performers had to improvise the plot (the genre changed as suggested by the audience). At the end of the scene, the true plot was revealed. This was the second time that i'd watched Reed improv a sonnet - impressive.

Humphrey and David switched roles and the blurb was held back in the second half of the show. Greatly enjoyed the Australian soap genre - Humphrey is well good at Australian accents and turns of phrase.

The next show is at the Canal Cafe Theatre and I highly recommend it.

A thought.

I really need to move house. The hassle and cost is keeping me awake at night. Awful.

Let's All Just Have Some Fun (And Learn Something, For Once). Soho Theatre.

Jonny Sweet plays a daft, excitable and lovable character giving a lecture on the HMS Nottingham (with his take on why the ship ran aground). The laughs come thick and fast during the first half of the show, mainly through wonderful turns of phrase and running commentary of funny clips and pictures which are shown via a projector. Things don't go as smoothly as planned and the audience gets a glimpse into the mind of this cheeky chappy. After the big reveal comes a truly adorable ending.

The show has received some great reviews, and rightly so. I'm looking forward to following Jonny's comedy success in the future. He's dead good and very different when compared with your average comic. Fan? You bet.

A thought.

I miss nice weather. Hopefully i'll get a lot of it when I go home FOR THREE WEEKS.

Jackson's Way. The Invisible Dot HQ.

I'm just going to say this before I start, The Invisible Dot HQ is one of my favourite places in the ENTIRE world.

In Jackson's Way, Will Adamsdale plays Chris John Jackson, an American life coach and motivational speaker. Jackson has dedicated his life to completing pointless tasks ("jactions" - a jaction is a pointless task performed by an individual until they feel physically sick e.g. Transfering rubbish from one side of the city to the other or staring at a wall...) and is only too happy to educate the audience and attempt to get us on board. The show is full of underlying meanings - so clever.

My favourite moment was when the audience participated in a "compound jaction". Halfway through, when a punter got up and talked about his first best friend, I laughed so hard that I had trouble breathing.

At first Jackson seems quirky but towards the end, we see glimpses of a deeply troubled man. His jargon was superb and I really enjoyed the accent. Such a great night.

A thought.

The clinking of a spoon hitting the glass as you finish an ice cream sundae has to be one of the best sounds ever.

Ten-Year Self-Improvement Challenge. Update Five.

My initial challenge can be found here. This is how i'm progressing:

I became very lazy for the 4 months between the Edinburgh Fringe and Christmas. I'm back on track now, though.

1) I read 'Saturday' by Ian McEwan and am about three quarters of the way through Anh Do's autobiography. To save some money, I bought a bus pass and actually look forward to reading on every commute.

I didn't start enjoying 'Saturday' until halfway through as I thought it was very slow paced and the lengthy descriptions and asides (usually medical) meant that I didn't relate or feel any emotional connections with the main characters, especially those of Henry Perowne. These became rarer in the second half and the major plot turn left me not wanting to put it down.

I was very reflective once i'd finished reading and it has encouraged to change the things in my life that I don't particularly like or enjoy. Carpe diam, innit.

2) In my last blog update I considered dropping this challenge and taking up a scapbooking one instead. I actually stuck at this task and also completed 3 years worth of scapbooking over the Christmas break. I'm pretty proud of myself.

It's great going to gigs with my friend Aislinn as she's less shy than myself and she encourages me to go with her when she's about to talk to someone we admire.

We told J van Tulleken that we enjoyed 'Off Season' at an Invisible Dot gig, told Joe (the trumpeter from Horne Section) that we had a blast at The Horne Section Christmas Bash and also got to chat with Tom Basden at the December Special Relationship (in which he signed my Joseph K text). Good times.

3) I didn't blog for 4 months and caught up in the New Year. GO ME! It is now very much up to date.

4) At the moment these are random bits of paper with thoughts scattered all through books, my bag and on my bedside table. I use them for the 'a thought' bits at the bottom of my blogs.

5) Not going great guns with this task. I have written to a variety of friends and family but it wasn't with the challenge in mind - it was usually replying to the emails that they sent me. Will try harder.

6) I haven't lost any weight and I haven't put any on.

My New Year's resolution is to be more aware of things around me instead of turning a blind eye. I also hope to stop waisting time online and getting out more.

I deleted my Twitter acount (I was follwing 800+ people and had almost 500 followers) last week and since then I have caught up with the majority of my blogging, watched 2 films, read (almost) 2 novels and have spent at least one day of the weekend out and about.

A thought.

By the end of 2011, I hope to be living in a house with my own room and preferably have a new job that I enjoy.

December 2010.

Docklands Sinfonia Presents Love The Earth. St. Anne's Church.

The first half was conducted by Imogen Heap. Nature clips were shown on a screen at the back of the alter while the orchestra and choir made beautiful music. It was pretty awesome to say the least. Heap conducted the audience during the final piece - balconies and all.

Joke Party.

Kevin Eldon, Clever Peter, Tommy and the Weeks, William Andrews and Tony Law.

Jam-packed audience. Lots of fun. RiP, Joke Party, I shall miss you.

Richard Sandling's Perfect Movie.

Quite a lot of the filming couldn't be completed due to SNOW CHAOS, but it was still bloody good (despite my lack of film knowledge). Dmitri and Vassily were tops and Nick Helm secured a place in my top 10 comedians.

Joseph K.

A modern adaptation of Kafka's 'The Trial' written and starring Tom Basden; also featuring Tim Key, Pip Carter and Sian Brooke. Outstanding! I really like the way the actors played a variety of different characters.

Financial Times review here and YouTube clip here.

Karaoke Circus.

It's lost is funness for me. Not knowing any of the songs may play a huge part... Kevin Eldon and Pappy's gave my favourite performances. Oh also, it was great to hear Danielle Ward sing during the final song.

Dead Cat Bounce. Pleasance Theatre.

My staff Christmas party was the same day and I was a bit drunk. It seemed to be over very fast. I loved hearing 'Midget' live - very talented chaps.

An Event Of Some Kind. Cavendish Arms.

I rushed over from The Pleasance to catch the second half. I'm not that familiar with Norman Lovett, but I very much enjoyed his stand-up which was pretty silly and a bit surreal. It's always a pleasure to see the Junior Ministers perform. H Anthony is so much like Tim Key in the sense that he always looks so different every time I see him.

The Special Relationship. The Invisible Dot HQ.

Tom Basden's Christmas themed story about a youth discovering that a shopping centre nativity has been turned into Santa's grotto was particularly good. I also really enjoyed local poet Paul Birtell. His poems were chucklesome and rather dark; I must buy his book. My night was made when Tom Basden signed my Joseph K text.

The Horne Section Christmas Bash. Union Chapel.

Oh man! This gig was COMPLETELY AWESOME. It featured Frisky & Mannish, Bruce Airhead, Jeremy Lion, Oompa Brass, Tom Basden and Tim Key ('Little Donkey' was played as he came on, but the words were changed to "little Tim Key, little Tim Key, walking on the stage"). The banter between Basden and Horne about Alex's chickens was incredibly funny ("you keep chickens, so you're not a real man") as was Tim Key's plastic bag of goodies (which included dill as "Tesco didn't have mistletoe"). This also happened. The night came to a close with a Christmas Medley lead by the bassist, Will, singing 'Once In Royal David's City' a capella from the pulpit whilst being conducted by Alex Horne using a drum stick.

Spoonfed's review of the evening is a cracking read.

Tim Minchin vs His Orchestra. O2 Arena.

My first trip to the O2 couldn't have been better, an ace gig and the most wonderful company made this evening the highlight of 2010. Brilliant new songs, great old songs and a 55 piece orchestra left me open mouthed and speechless. My only criticism is that the stand-up fell very flat in such a big space.

My friend Anna has written an eloquent review of the evening here.

Roisin Conaty: Hero, Warrior, Fireman, Liar. Soho Theatre.

An amusing tale about preparing to make a speech at her old high school which is full of anecdotes about her life since she was a teenager. A really lovely show which made me smile throughout. Enjoyed the character comedy at the very beginning - i'm a fan of silly.

Nine Lessons And Carols For Godless People. Bloomsbury Theatre.

So much snow fell earlier in the day and I was concerned that I wasn't going to make it. It doesn't feel like Christmas until i've gone to one of Robin Ince's festive gigs. Frisky & Mannish, Josie Long, Jo Neary and The Mystery Fax Machine Orchestra made me giggle the most.

Lady Garden's Nativity. Wilmington Arms.

Lady Garden (Mary) were joined by Tom Allen (Joseph) Ginger & Black (narrator), Toby (angel Gabriel), Tom Bell (shepherd), Pappy's (3 kings) and 2/3 of The Penny Dreadfuls (wise men) to re-create the Nativity.

My goodness it was funny. I really liked that the sketches, material and styles of all the performers were incorporated into the show. The Nativity with a song about technology? Why not.

FREEZE. The Invisible Dot HQ.

Some pre-Christmas fun from Messrs Basden and Key. With the help of the ultimateguitar.com, Tom Basden and Tim Key led the audience in singing Bon Jovi's version of 'Silent Night' to finish.

Ronna & Beverly. Soho Theatre.

I was meant to go to the cinema for a post-Christmas catch up with a few friends, but then we found out about this gig and decided to give it a go. The guests being interviewed by character comedians, Jessica Chaffin and Jamie Denbo, on this particular evening were Sara Pascoe and Humphrey Ker. Good stuff.

A thought.

Matt Forde, Jermaine Clement, Phill Jupitus and Tim Key have the best laughs in comedy.

November 2010.

Joke Party. Wilmington Arms.

Ben Target, Gerry Howell, Tom Basden and MC, Tom Bell. Good line-up, huh? There were 10 people in the audience including my friend and I. I don't understand!

I really like the chat in between Basden's songs (he even had an onstage chat with Bell about a time they went to the cinema together). He spoilt us by playing 'Champagne' and his song about wearing boxing gloves to a funeral (unsure of the name) on the piano.

Tom Bell's interpretive dance at the end to the tune of 'Pump It' by The Black Eyed Peas was one of the best things i've ever seen. Seriously.

Simon Amstell: Do Nothing. 100 Club.

A few shows at this venue to help promote the release of his DVD. It was a pleasant surprise to see that he was being supported by Ginger & Black. They did lots of material that I hadn't heard before - they have a wonderfully dark sense of humour.

It was great to see the show in a nice intimate venue.

Working Title. Leicester Square Theatre.

Humphrey Ker, David Reed, Laura Solon and Andrew Pugsley improvised their way through certain scenarios and styles as suggested by the audience. Really enjoyed it. David Reed shone!

Nick Mohammed Is Mr. Swallow. Leicester Square Theatre.

This is an absolutely delightful show. In much the same way as Kevin Eldon did, Nick Mohammed has taken lots of things that he's good at and formed it in a hilarious hour of comedy. I particularly like his, or should I say Mr. Swallow's, Jarassic Park song and the way he "played" the volunteering pianist during the closing number.

The Horne Section. Soho Theatre.

It's so shiny (and, in a way, polished) since the first preview at the Canal Cafe Theatre. This one featured Milton Jones, Mat Ricardo The Gentleman Juggler, Pete Firman, New Art Club and as ever, Tim Key. To quote my friend Jef, I loved it with my knees! The Interval Song made me smile so much that I had achey cheeks.

A drunken lady in the balcony heckled all the way through Tim Key's set. Key responded with "okay, but it is offensive when she asked him to sing her a song. Boom!

I must see New Art Club again. Soon, preferably.

Colin Hoult: Enemy Of The World. Leicester Square Theatre.

I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed this show when I saw it in Edinburgh. I'm going to see it again at Soho Theatre - get in! Graham Linehan was sitting front and centre; what excellent taste in comedy he has.

My friend, Rose, wrote a wonderful review for The Spectator Arts blog and you can read it here.

Tom Secret Business: Lady Garden & Pappy's. New Red Lion Theatre.

I like watching comedy from a sofa in the middle of a pub - more of this, please.

I don't think Pappy's had performed their show since Edinburgh, but it wouldn't be right if they weren't shambolic. The Technology Song will ALWAYS make me weep with laughter.

There are a lot of members that make up Lady Garden (6!!), but it works so well. Hannah Dodd's stand-up routines were my favourite. Brilliant use of costumes.

The Horne Section. Soho Theatre.

I'm not sick of it yet, I don't think i'll ever be. Guests: Miles Jupp, Phil Kay (bit repulsed), Fletch, The London Vegetable Orchestra (very clever/silly/wonderful) and Tim Key.

Morris Dancing to 'All The Single Ladies'? Yes please.

Laura Marling. Conway Hall.

Best music gig of 2010, hands down. The audience were quiet and transfixed the whole time she was on stage. She sang 3 new songs among the favourites. Wished it went on forever.

Mystery Fax Machine Orchestra & Jim Bob. Dingwalls.

I had quite a bit to drink at this gig. Goodbye memory. Here, have some YouTube clips which were uploaded by my friend Nicola.

Matilda, The Musical. The Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Holy cow, this was incredibly awesome. Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly, pat yourselves on the back.

As I am lost for words, i'll point you in the direction of Anna's blog.

It was so lovely to get away from London for the weekend - the buildings were so small and quaint. 'Twas. So. Cold.

Tim Key Work In Progress. The Invisible Dot HQ.

Watched Tim Key whilst sat in an office in my coat and scarf; kinda fun. Bit of an odd gig at times, there was lots of chat (from Key, I should add). During the show Tim asked a bald man if he "brushes his hair with a flannel" - HA!

A thought.

Ran out of steam towards the end of this blog. Apologies.

October 2010.

Again with the hazy memory.

Live At The Chapel: David O'Doherty.

Colin Hoult, Andrew Maxwell, Richard Herring and MC, Dan Atkinson made up the rest of the bill. O'Doherty was ON FIRE! I especially loved his 50s pin-up girl poses as he read out shark based facts.

Never Mind The Buzzcocks Recording.

Host: Tim Minchin. Guests: Tim Key, Paloma Faith, DJ Target and Jason Donovan.

It was immense! That is all.

Clever Peter: Blood, Sweat & Tears. Pleasance Theatre.

I like these guys. They're all as talented as each other; it's impossible to pick a favourite. The series of role-play sketches throughout the show were marvellous.

Russell Kane: Smokescreens & Castles. Bloomsbury Theatre.

It was alright... not a Fosters Comedy Award winning show in my opinion. Nice ending.

Horne Section. The Invisible Dot HQ.

With Tom Basden, Mike Wozniak and Tim Key.

This was the first time i'd heard Tim Key sing in Russian and it more than lived up to the hype. Hearing Tom Basden sing 'Mamma Mia' with the band was pretty amazing. Mike Wozniak is so underrated; a wonderful comedian.

Tim Key improvised a Psalm which was bloody impressive and included a lot of swearing. Wonderful.

Popcorn Comedy. Tabernacle.

Marcel the Shell was a fave. Abandoman, Tim Key and Graham Linehan provided live comedy. Getting a bit bored of Abandoman, to be honest. Graham Linehan walked out during Key's set which prompted him to say "there he goes with his career".

Stand Up For Depression. Union Chapel.

Daniel Kitson, Tom Basden, Sanderson Jones, Jonny Sweet and Tim Minchin. OMG.

Kitson kept his tea warm by placing it next to the projector which was used during Basden and Sweet's sets. He got the audience to chant "let's kick this in the cock!" a fair bit.

Jonny Sweet was on fine form - doing a shorter version of his Edinburgh show, Let's All Just Have Some Fun (And learn Something, For Once). I loved the way he went up into the pulpit to say his prayer.

Tim Minchin had forgotten to remove his shoes and socks before he came onstage and did so while sitting at the piano. He sang 3 new songs ('Lullaby', 'Cheese' and 'Cont') as well as 'The Pope Song' and a spine-tingling rendition of 'Drowned'.

Tim Key WiP. The Invisible Dot HQ.

With special guest, Stephen Merchant. Merchant wrapped a scarf around a punter's head throughout his set as he didn't look as if he was enjoying it.

Can't remember much about this gig. Bet it was good.

Greg Davies: Firing Cheeseballs At A Dog. Bloomsbury Theatre.

I laughed until I ached. Full of hilarious anecdotes throughout his life from teaching to going home to his parents house for Christmas. Greg Davies, you're a VERY funny man.

Boy With Tape On His Face. Soho Theatre.

How can a man make you laugh for an hour without speaking, I hear you ask? You obviously haven't seen Boy With Tape On His Face; laughs aplenty. He relies quite a bit on audience participation and those chosen, happily oblige. I was completely and utterly won over by his talent and charm. Wowwowwow.

Karaoke Circus.

First half was kinda sucky. I didn't know any of the songs and the atmosphere was a little weird. Margaret Cabourn-Smith and Humphrey Ker kicked off a better second half with 'Stay'. Pappy's 'Monster Mash' was also very good.

Feature Spot Presents: Tim Minchin. 100 Club.

I got to work front of house at this gig. Pretty lucky, huh? Cardinal Burns and Colin Hoult supported.

Tim was joined by his "B & P band"; guitarist/bassist, Pete Clements, and drummer, Brad Webb. I heard a couple more new songs at this gig, 'The Fence' and 'Sam's Mum'. Cracking night despite sound problems.

The Special Relationship. The Invisible dot HQ.

This was the second time i'd heard Tom Basden's story about a man losing his temper with a young girl on a train and it only got better. American brothers, Sam Taradash and Jarred McGinnis told an amusing tale about a sea cucumber. Like, like, like.

Rebecca Lenkiewicz, Guy Morgan and Sam Knight (who I found extremely fascinating) also contributed.

The Institute. Pleasance Theatre.

An interactive zombie-infested experience. Not going to lie, even though I knew it wasn't real, I got really scared and audibly screamed on a few occasions. My favourite character was Alun, a young Welshman played by Humphrey Ker (well funny). The other Penny Dreadfuls, David Reed and Thom Tuck, also gave a damn fine performance.

I'll definitely go again next year, 'twas much fun.

The Horne Section. The Invisible Dot HQ.

Guests: Joe Wilkinson, "The Mysterious... Fletch", Tim Key and a theramin player.

Joe Wilkinson's style of comedy is very Cowardsesque. I think he's just wonderful; one of my all time favourite comedians. Fletch is fantastic, too. I find that he works best when he has someone to bounce off - The Horne Section is perfect for his act.

Tim Key sang two songs in Russian this time. Also, how he manages to balance his beer so effortlessly on the drummers cymbal, is beyond me. He's just too bloody good.

The theramin player was rather odd in a very funny way. Alex Horne had a go, but didn't like it. I just love the way he gives a running commentary (thinking out loud) throughout all his gigs.

A thought.

Series 24 of Buzzcocks. Best host: DOD/Josh Groban. Best guest: Paul Foot.

September 2010.

My memory is a little hazy.

Greenwich Comedy Festival. David O'Doherty.

DOD played the Speigal Tent which meant my view was slightly skewed. No matter, he still rocked me in quite a gentle way. His waffling introduction is always a highlight - this one included an Alf impression behind the sound desk.

Relief-O-Matic. Bloomsbury Theatre.

A charity gig for AIDS awareness is Africa which included the likes of Robin Ince, Ed Byrne, Ben Goldacre, Natalie Haynes, Andy Zaltzman, Richard Herring and Tim Minchin.

It was the first time i'd heard 'The Pope Song' live. Minch also covered Elton John's 'Crocodile Rock' which was absolutely brilliant.

Feature Spot. Tabernacle.

Rufus Hound kinda gave the "middle class" audience a bit of stick during his set which didn't go down all that well. Tim Key and Carl Donnelly shared their "taking a dump in public" anecdotes (HILARIOUS). Adam Buxton's hour long headline spot seemed to fly by - encore, Buxton, encore!

Bill Bailey's Dandelion Mind. Leicester Square Theatre.

My first Bill Bailey show and it definitely didn't disappoint! The man is crazy in completely the best way possible. The stage was littered with all sorts of musical instruments that, I thought, were largely underused. Adored the Tenori-on and the ending number.

Joke Party. Wilmington Arms.

I think Fergus Craig is such an awesome comedian. His Paul Gascoigne material is more than fine, but was hoping for characters. We got the former.

Anna & Katy tried out sketches for their new Channel 4 show. THEY WERE AWESOME. At one point Katy turned to Anna and said "you're quite funny", "likewise" came the response.

I thought the last act, Willfredo, was woeful. A repulsive man singing a song while spitting and spilling his beer will never be funny.

FREEZE. The Invisible Dot HQ.

Tom Basden and Tim Key did funnies while getting drunk onstage. Key ate a spider; he also said "you know you're too drunk when you can't let go of the microphone". I did lots of hearty laughing.

Helen Arney's Songs For Modern Loving. Leicester Square Theatre.

This was the last outing for Helen Arney's 2010 Edinburgh Fringe show. She is such a delight to watch. I'm so glad she did 'Let's Make Love Like Animals'.

Ed Gamble & Tom Rosenthal. Hen & Chickens.

Ed Gambles fruit/anagram material is really clever. I like. Tom Rosenthal is all kinds of wonderful - watch this space!

The Special Relationship. The Invisible Dot HQ.

What a gig! Alongside Tom Basden, Jarred McGinnis and Sam Taradash was Tim Key (with Isy Suttie), Melissa Mann and Matthew Robins.

We were also shown J Van Tulleken's BAFTA nominated short film 'Off Season' which was amazing and scared me out of my wits.

A thought.

I wish I liked milk. I envy those I see drinking a glass of milk, it looks so satisfying.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2010. Day Nine.

Daniel Kitson: It's Always Right Now, Until It's Later.

Unfortunately I can't remember much about this show except that it had a very pretty set. It was waaaaaaay too early and day nine at the Edinburgh Fringe. Daniel Kitson, please forgive me.

Tim Key. With A String Quartet. On A Boat. Edinburgh Album Launch.

A small crowd gathered in Edinburgh's Angular Records for the first album launch of 'Tim Key. With A String Quartet. On A Boat'. Key read out a few poems with musical backing from Nick Mohammed and performed a sketch about eggs with Alex Horne while standing upon a step ladder. "How can you lose a can of Irn Bru?!". I had the opportunity to buy the album and get it signed.

John-Luke Roberts Distracts You From A Murder.

This show really should've been nominated for "Best Newcomer". It was great when I saw the preview in London at The Invisible Dot HQ and it was even greater in The Burgh. Roberts' audience insults are genius.

A thought.

My yearly trip to the Edinburgh Fringe is always a highlight. Next year I won't cram in as many shows and try not to consume as much booze.

Photo courtesy of Late Night Gimp Fight's blog.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2010. Day Eight.

Jay Foreman: Pretend You're Happy.

Wonderful songs. Stand-up was a little weak. There was a really odd girl in the front row that was bloody annoying. Hungover... again.

Sex & Hugs & Forward Rolls.

Ben Van der Velde did a great job of compere. Amazing, amazing set by James Acaster (he did his salmon impression TWICE!) and pretty good set by Andrew Doyle.

Two Episodes Of MASH: A Sketch By These Two People.

A series of whimsical and dead-pan sketches that peter out. I have so much love for Diane Morgan and Joe Wilkinson. A little bit too polished - preferred their preview at Jokes Newington. Watch on BBC Comedy. Please and thank you.

Ginger & Black: The Chill Factory.

What a bloody brilliant show. I'm a big fan of dark comedy and Ginger & Black do it so well. More a series of interlocking sketches rather than songs. Kudos for the pasta dress.

Hannah Gadsby: The Cliff Young Shuffle.

A very self-deprecating story about Hannah's journey walking across the UK. It was alright. I'd see her again; don't think she was on form in this show.

David O'Doherty - Somewhere Over The David O'Doherty.

Hooray for the DOD! He makes me so happy. A lot of the material wasn't new as i'd caught quite a few previews prior to the Fringe. His Shakira song and shark-based facts were a highlight.

A thought.

Day 8. Fatigue. Want my own bed.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2010. Day Seven.

Smith & Smith: A Matter Of Life, Death And Middle-Distance Running.

James W Smith did the first 30 minutes and spoke about death, while Daniel Smith did the last 30 minutes and spoke about life. Shame the man in the front row fell asleep; these are promising young comedians, sir. Hungover.

Footlights In 'Good For You'.

Fancy set, but mediocre sketches. James Moran was the stand out performer for me. Still hungover.

Claudia O'Doherty: Moster Of The Deep 3D.

SO GOOD. Whimsical packed story about the last survivor of an underwater colony. The ending filled me with happiness. 'Africa' by Toto will forever bring a smile to my face after seeing this show.

The Invisible Dot Club: By The Sea.

We were taken to a large hall by the sea on a series of coaches that played old seaside tunes. The gig was compered by Daniel Kitson and featured Colin Hoult, Tim Key and Josie Long. All attendees were given custom made sticks of rock when leaving the venue. Lovely.

A thought.

7 pints of beer is too much.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2010. Day Six.

Toby.

This show was part of the Free Fringe. Very theatrical sketches by sisters Lizzie and Sarah. Props and costumes aplenty. Ace.

The Penny Dreadfuls.

They've ditched the Victorian sketches and are now more mainstream. Thom Tuck shone. Gotta love TPDs. I do.

Tom Adams Can't Come.

One of my favourite shows this year. I hope he plays the BAC again in February as it needs a second viewing! I want to write lots about this show but am well lazy, please read here.

Bo Burnham: Words, Words, Words.

I loved the songs. I loved the gags. I loved the poetry. Wasn't big on the show as a whole and I don't know why.

Fordy's Lock In.

Drunk. I can remember only the guests. Dan Atkinson, John Robins and Lloyd Langford.

A thought.

Drinking in the Pleasance Dome until 5am, sneaking up to Brookes Bar and chatting until 6am then crawling into bed at 6.30am IS FUN.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2010. Day Five.

Lunchtime Club: Class Of 2010.

This gig was recommended to me by my friend Maddie and i'm so glad I got to see it. I spent the rest of the week recommending it to others. It was compered by Joel Dommett and featured sets by Ian Smith (BRILLIANT), Tom Rosenthal (AWESOME), Rob Beckett and Liam Williams. Watch these names.

Terry Saunders: Nine And A Half Loves.

A sad series of stories that tell the tale of failed relationships. Charming, but I think I preferred the preview.

Lorretta Maine: I'm Not Drunk, I Just Need To Talk To You.

Lorretta Maine in by far Pippa Evans' strongest character and i'm glad she gets an entire show. A little bit of stand-up in between songs (with a band). Totally ace. 'I'm Fine' is a favourite.

Alex Horne: Odds.

This show is about gambling, mostly, and I adored it even though I don't have the faintest clue about gambling. I learnt a lot. I admire the way Alex seems to centre his shows about topics that interest him - his passion is contagious. I'll always enjoy a show by Alex Horne, I reckon.

H Anthony Hildebrand: Why Is Lettuce?

I made up 1/3 of the audience which was a little bit uncomfortable. Some wonderful one-liners, beat backed poetry and unusual ideas. I like this mans mind.

Tim Key: The Slutcracker.

"Do you know what a Shire Horse is?" "yes" "what is is then?" "it's a horse with feathers". You can't beat an Edinburgh audience. Loved the addition of the golf club.

A thought.

I feel so at home in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Day Four.

Robin Ince - Carl Sagan Is Still My God.

12pm is too early for a show during the Edinburgh Fringe; blurgh. Helen Arney was/is wonderful.

Open Mic - The White Horse.

Went and watched my mate Pete do an open mic spot. He was good. Also managed to see Flange Krammer who is a German skier (character); humorous.

Mike Wozniak and Henry Paker: The Golden Lizard.

Both comedians slip effortlessly between several of the same characters as they take the audience on a journey of mystery solving. WONDERFUL.

Nick Mohammed Is Mr. Swallow.

I started giggling before even entering the venue as Mr. Swallow came out in a poncho and clipboard and directed the audience upstairs. Mr. Swallow holds a presentation about memory with laughs and gasps aplenty. Dead clever, like.

Jonny Sweet: Let's Just Have Some Fun (And Learn Something For Once).

I thought it was a half-written show when I saw the preview at The Invisible Dot. WHAT A DOUCHE. The character is quite similar to his previous show minus the limp. Absolutely joyous and not at all hindered by PowerPoint. Love, love, loved the ending.

Sammy J: Skinny Man, modern World.

Too tired to concentrate. Great songs, but the show didn't hold my attention as much as last year's show. Wouldn't mind seeing it again if I have the chance.

Karaoke Circus.

Clearly wasn't drunk enough. Enjoyed the open mic spots more than the guest spots. Michael Legge, Jim Bob and Pappy's were very funny, mind.

A thought.

Day 4 of Edinburgh Fringe. Fatigue setting in.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Day Three.

Colin Hoult: Enemy Of The World.

Wonderful, wonderful character comedy about the unpleasant people that we've all seemed to encounter in our lifetime. One of, if not my, favourite show during this year's Fringe. Ooo, boogie man...

Tom Wrigglesworth's Nightmare Dream Wedding.

I think my expectations were too high due to his previous show being so damn good, but I didn't enjoy it at all. Dodgy clips. Shaky ending. Very stop/start.

Tim FitzHingham: Gentleman Adventurer.

Probably would've been more enjoyable if i'd seen his previous shows as he addresses them quite a bit. The venue was inside the hull of a ship (!) in the Pleasance Courtyard. It's quite easy to fall in love with the man after seeing him perform live; charming.

Asher Treleaven: Secret Door.

Similar theme to Colin Hoult's show. He plays a character that makes the audience quite on edge. A projecter projects images of rather vile well known people as he speaks about their vileness intermittently throughout the show. Loved it.

Brendan Burns Y'know Love'n'God'n'Metaphysics'n'Shit.

Another gig at the Udderbelly I didn't enjoy. Maybe something to do with the venue? Maybe. The entire show had musical backing by guitarist Dave Eastgate. Brendan and Dave had lots of personal jokes that they found funnier than the audience. Nice ending.

Fullmooners.

I fell asleep during Glenn Wool's set. I can't remember much about this gig except that Beardyman was AMAZING.

A thought.

Trying to fit 6 shows into 1 day is not a very smart thing to do.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2010. Day Two.

The Invisible Dot Inaugural 3-Sided Football Tournament.

My friend Sam and I spent forever walking to the Amnesty football match and then ended up catching a taxi with Anna and James to The Meadows after we'd realised we were at the wrong football match. It was a very pleasant afternoon despite the mistake.

Sophie Black: A Sketch Show.

Enjoyable characters, but the show seemed to fall a little bit flat as a whole.

Delete The Banjax... And You!

Delightful! Dan Cook just has to walk on stage and I burst out laughing. Very high energy sketches; at the end of August they must feel like death.

Dommett And Lampaert.

They each did about 20 minutes of solo material and 20 minutes of banter between themselves and the audience. Much fun. The audience was chokers with teenage girls.

Frisky & Mannish: The College Years.

I adore Frisky and Mannish, but I didn't enjoy this show as much as last year's show. Wee bit self-indulgent at times. Rocking audience. Great Beyoncé impersonation.

John-Cooper Clarke.

I was so tired by the time I took my seat at the Udderbelly. I enjoyed the poetry, but he did an awful lot of chatting which I wasn't so keen on.

A thought.

Had the best conversation about cereal (mainly Sugar Puffs) while walking to the Pleasance Courtyard from The Meadows. My friends ROCK.