Their stand-ups fill venues three times as big in Australia; not surprising, considering a good chunk of their material focuses on the racism of their homeland, whom it seems the show is tailored to. However it’s not just for the Aussies, as Nazeem proves in his opening set, easing us into some incredibly controversial topics with a bit of self-deprecation and a few digs at the audience.
The atmosphere is helped by the little room’s location in a forgotten corner of the Gilded Balloon; almost as if swapping secrets, we sit giggling at the sort of observations that politicians take endless efforts to avoid. It’s an antidote to misplaced political correctness and sheds a harmless comedic light on such delicate subjects as race and religion-he pulls it off perfectly.
We wait for the second set in anticipation, expecting more of the same. Unfortunately, Aamer takes a different tack, attempting to steer us away from the all-encompassing and light-hearted onto something a little more pointed and aggressive: namely, current events and politics.
Even his less biting topics are delivered in a potent way, which would have been effective had it been a show in its own right. I can understand the intention of helping us relax before honing in on some harsher truths, but the effect on our audience is of feeling a little deceived as to the tone of the show, and ultimately hardening to Aamer’s set. He still has us laughing, but it isn't quite so predictable when Guantanamo and Facebook are flung into the mix.
For the thrill of having the elephant in the room made to dance centre-stage, it’s worth a watch. The content never deviates too far from race or religion, but the pair work their audience well and keep the pace up nicely.
Show times: 3-29 August (excluding 15 & 22) 7.15pm
Ticket prices: £7.50 - £9.50