Joe Lycett & Andrew Ryan - An Hour of Humour

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If for you the phrase “free comedy” evokes a sense of scepticism, this show will put paid to that. Chortle Student Comedian of the Year 2009 Joe Lycett returns to Edinburgh joined by fellow rising star Andrew Ryan for a 30-minute set each.

Just as you're pondering to yourself Ryan's striking resemblance to Ardal O'Hanlon, he makes the comparison himself, and it serves as a great safeguard against any further typecasting you might be inclined to do. A fair amount of his set revolves around coming from Cork, and some of his “Irish” material is a little trite. But an extended tirade against the inanities of trying to communicate effectively with one's bank has his audience in stitches. Lycett's routine, about “daftness and silliness” combines piercing observations with just the right amount of self-mockery and camp.

Both Lycett and Ryan are extremely affable. Andrew Ryan has a kind of mum-friendly courteousness that cunningly disguises the real bite behind his bark. Joe Lycett on the other hand would flirt with your mum—and your dad—and they'd most likely be charmed by his bashful wit. But most importantly, these are two emerging standups who perform with the ease and consistency of old hands. So grab yourself a pint, sit back, and bask in the glow of your own smugness upon finding this infinitely good-value show.