A potent concoction of brutal truths and dark humour. Longley provides an intimate portrayal of his life, including his friends, family and his childhood growing up in Derby, through the lens of the philosophical concept of cognitive dissonance. He touches on a variety of controversial topics such as racism, death and homosexuality among other things, but his honest, open-minded and engaging nature helps to soothe an otherwise difficult pill to swallow. While the set is spread very thinly over a variety of topics, which can at times feel rather dolorous, Longley’s comedy is entertaining and the more serious side of his show gives a thought-provoking message of seizing the day, irrespective of whether it is good or bad.

The Stand Comedy Club, 2-26 Aug, 4.40pm
tw rating 3/5 | [Miranda Cannibal]