He's Not Getting Older, He's Getting Bitter

I played a video of my stand-up from January 2002 to a good friend. I respect their opinion. I pretty much showed it to them to see how much better I got. I was hoping for a response of, "Wow, you were all over the place and blue. You’ve gotten so much better."

Instead they were like, "You seemed so much more natural and energetic." Uh oh.

Are they right? Lately, have I just been going through the motions? Have I turned it into a routine where everything is mapped out and there is no spontaneous flow? I really don't want to think so. Sure, when you start comedy, there is this blind, beautiful energy you have. Everything is raw, less calculated and you take more chances. Then it becomes a craft. Like you are working on condensing things. Cutting out jokes you may find hacky and trying to put together a flowing routine. I guess all this thought and studying can harms one stand-up.

I'm not exactly agreeing with this person but I'm breaking out the old tapes to see if there is something to it. Plus, I have some jokes that I retired which I plan to bring back.

On a whole other note, September is here and the Red Sox are hot. They can't lose. I will leave it at that because I want no jinxes.

My fantasy football team plays its top rival this week. Williamsburg Beavers (Me) vs. Ollie's Army (Fisherman Comic) I am so confident I will win I am guaranteeing victory. That’s right, Ala Joe Namath.

Matty

Alternative is a Silly Word

Two of the three shows I did this weekend were in so called “Alternative” rooms and I must say I hate the word "Alternative." It clearly ruined music, and it has no business in comedy. A common joke is, Alternative comedy is alternative of being funny. An alternative show or room would be in a bar in the village. The acts are more political, abstract and there is always a female, guitar comic, with a song about her vagina. What’s cool is there are no high door prices, no check spots, and no drink minimums and this one show gave out free snack cakes. The background isn't bricks or a silhouette of the city, but a mural of rabbits humping. I have the video to prove it.

I guess I feel more relaxed doing these types of shows. Like I don't have to pander or freak it up. Truth is, there is no bigger rush then performing at a big New York City Comedy club to a packed, stoked house. Someday I'll leave behind the funky bar. For now, I'll perform anywhere. I honestly would of did time at the Republican National Convention if they asked me to.

I hope everyone had a nice Labor Day vacation thingy and I'm glad the weather is getting cooler. Time to break out my sweaters. Lots of stripes.

Matty