Caught Doug Stanhope's big night at Hammersmith Apollo and there was a lot excitement and anticipation from an audience, who probably like me went on the strength of a few short ramblings on Newswipe.
Very funny bloke even when his material wasn't at his best, as well as plenty of topical material (Libya, Royal Wedding, Charlie Sheen) that showed he was on his toes. He's compared to Bill Hicks and there are elements of him (but certainly not in a nicked material Denis Leary type way) and Chris Rock, as well as a bitter drunk stage persona not unlike Johnny Vegas.
Not surprised he has struck a chord over here though, as his melancholic tone is suited to a country with about five days of sunshine a year. Pity he started early as there wasn't much time to get shitfaced at the bar.
He's doing a stint in a few months time in Leicester Square if you want to catch him.