Showing @ The Stand III, Edinburgh until Tue 12 Aug @ 16:25

Every show Robin Ince does really should come with a fact-sheet. A short pamphlet, detailing what he plans to talk about, the critical background and likely distractions. Anything to prepare the audience for the glorious tangents Ince delights in, and ensure nothing is missed.

Or perhaps a reading list should be provided; as what we’re seeing is an hour-long celebration of learning. Ince refutes the notion that a sex, drugs and rock n’ roll lifestyle is the only way to transgress, suggesting that a regularly used library card is a far deadlier weapon. To prove the point, he dives into riffs on neurological research, the sadism of psychologists and tricks of perception we play on ourselves. It’s mind-expansion at it’s most joyous.

There are a smattering of showbiz anecdotes which might feel lovey-ish if they weren’t sparingly used. As it is, we get an insight into the screaming matches that precede The Infinite Monkey Cage and Brian Cox’s inability to grasp ideas without graphs. Ince also reveals that Alan Moore became a wizard rather than have a mid-life crisis, and is only held to the decision because he announced it to all his friends in the pub.

Ince jokes that he goes off on so many tangents, any show is in danger if turning into a hostage situation. Frankly, this is something he should consider for the future. 48+ hours locked in a basement with one of comedy’s most curious minds? I’m game.

Showing as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2014