Chris Tavener is a musical comedian from Cheshire who specialises in acerbic, satirical songs. Armed with his guitar he delivers jangly rock and acoustic ballads spiked with cynical commentary. He’s been featured on the BBC in numerous formats, has written songs for Sir Ian McKellan, and shared a stage with Tony Hadley and Peter Hook (presumably not at the same time). He’s performed at the Fringe before, but 2024 sees him bringing his debut hour, ‘Chris Tavener is Faking Cool’ to theSpace. We spoke to Chris about the show, his musical and comedy heroes, and the weirdest gig he’s ever played.

Can you tell us about ‘Chris Tavener is Faking Cool?’

Yes certainly. ‘Chris Tavener is Faking Cool’ is my one-man, musical comedy show. It’s full of satirical observations about everything from smartphone rivalry, coffee-habits to the end of the world. I’m a guitarist and songwriter of over twenty years, but this show explores my fears around fakery and anxieties about performing live in funny and unexpected ways.

For anyone who might be new to you, could you describe your approach to comedy?

My approach to comedy is like a musical ninja… I like to have the jokes lying in wait during a whimsical or tense song then spring a surprise on the audience. It’s the benefit of a comic weapon like the guitar that you can distract people with a bit of finger-picking or a tuneful melody. Watch out.

Have you always had a comic or satirical edge to your music, or is that something that came later?

I’ve always loved satire. I also enjoyed writing about bizarre topics too, but in the beginning I had no idea if I was funny or not. Some of my first gigs are still up on YouTube and you can see me rather unprofessionally laughing at my own jokes with the audience because their reaction was so unexpected!

As I grew as a performer, I began to exclusively write funny songs and dress in a suit, from that point it became more of an act.

Who are your musical and comedy heroes, and how have they influenced you?

I’m glad you’ve separated these, because some of my favourite music acts aren’t funny and my favourite comedy acts aren’t musical. I’m a huge fan of Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Alex Turner, and great acoustic songwriters with a knack for lyrics.

But I also love classic comedy in TV like Harry & Paul, That Mitchell & Webb Look and The IT Crowd. Much of the writing in those programmes shaped my humour and taste in satire.

I think my style is built on a marriage of these influences – however dysfunctional!

You’ve been on the circuit for eight years, have there been any particularly weird gigs, good or bad?

In actual fact, one of my weirdest gigs ever was at the Edinburgh Fringe. I was just doing a couple of songs at a variety showcase afternoon but for some reason, the booker put me on after a 10-piece breakdance troupe. Complete with lasers and a smoke machine…

Needless to say, it was a tough act to follow, but it was made so much worse when the fire alarm went off from the smoke as soon as I started. I was told by a member of the audience that the smoke was so thick they couldn’t see me. So I couldn’t be heard or seen for two songs. I laughed hysterically about it afterwards.

‘Faking Cool’ is your debut fringe hour. What made you decide 2024 was the year to take the plunge, and what are your hopes and expectations for the month?

That’s a great question and I’m wondering myself why I waited so long. I think to an extent, I had the Edinburgh Fringe on a pedestal. So many heroes of mine got their big break there and I wanted my debut to have all the right conditions for success: agent backing, big venue, audience hype etc. But I realised, you don’t need any of that to get people excited to see your show and have a whale of a time. That side of it is much more important to me now than any industry buzz.

As for my hopes and expectations, if I come away happy with how I performed and that I entertained as many Fringe goers as I could then I’ll be delighted.

Is there anything you’re particularly looking forward to (or dreading) about the Fringe?

I am really excited to be part of the Fringe performers network. As a punter, I’ve watched how Fringe artists support each other and I would love to be part of that talented community.

I think I’m dreading carrying my guitar up Edinburgh’s steep streets; I think at those times I’ll wish I played ukulele…

Beside ‘Faking Cool’ can we expect to see you performing elsewhere during August?

I’ll be getting around. I am planning to perform on any showcase and variety show that will have me! With some luck, you’ll catch me briefly on the street stages, cabaret nights and guest spots in other shows.

I also have music contacts in Stirling and Falkirk, so perhaps you’ll see me performing there.

Are there any other acts at the Fringe that you would recommend audiences see?

As a musical comedy act, I love seeing my contemporaries in this unusual style. I’ve seen Huge Davies and Jollyboat before, I would highly recommend their shows! I also can’t wait to see Mitch Benn and Jazz Emu this year. I’m looking forward to discovering new acts too – ask me again halfway through the Fringe.

‘Chris Tavener is Faking Cool‘ is at theSpace @Surgeons’ Hall – Theatre 3 from Fri 2 to Sat 17 Aug 2024 (except Sun 11)