Marlon Davis’ beaming grins and charmingly authentic anecdotes are punctuated by some seriously heavy-hitting gags, reminding you that his “urban” tag is not just some marketing ploy. Davis regales the audience with mischievous tales of his childhood on an estate, and equally mischievous tales of fatherhood. His set is hodgepodge (with extra podge), and that’s the way it works best. The few instances when he tries to impose callbacks and a sense of continuity feel like he’s just doing so for formality’s sake, but the amiable and very funny Davis doesn’t need a format. His show doesn’t give the impression that it’s been elaborately crafted; it’s just very good stand up.

Assembly George Square Studios, until 24 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [George Robb]