2 years ago "The Men Who Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing" won the DARKCHAT award for Best Music. Last year Marc Burrows won the DARKCHAT award for Best Free Show so the expectations were high for his show at Canon's Gait.
These were somewhat tempered with the news that Andrew O'Neill would not appear tonight as he had a better gig elsewhere. However, Marc Burrows had wisely recruited three comedians to fill the gap.
He still gamely played and sang a few numbers from his band, impressively as normally he is only the bass player. Despite a big build-up I was expecting some generic unknown free comedians and was surprised to discover the opening act was Wil Hodgson with a highly impressive set ( a possible addition to next year's spreadsheet). He was followed by Rob Auton, hitherto unknown to me, discussing his love for the colour yellow and his sketch about a builder mistakenly painting his room maroon is one of my festival highlights. ( He is a definite for next year's spreadsheet if he returns).
Sadaly, the final comedian (whose man I thankly can't remember) had no discernible material instead spending too much time finding out exactly why a couple were late and asking what a heckler didn't like about him. Fortunately, the man concerned decided not to provide a full critique of how this performer had forgotten the basic role of a comedian, TO BE FUNNY.
This was a strange show. It was still enjoyable though, any chance to hear songs from our favourite Steam Punk band is always appreciated. It must be stressed that this performance was a one-off and when Mr O'Neill returns the show will return to its normal format. Go and see what we missed.
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