Ex-Roaring Boys frontman Jonny Donahoe has enjoyed well-heeled success at previous festivals, and landed at the Fringe 2010 with the kind of dynamism required to prosper in a double act. He transfers the same wild, raw energy to his new trio, accompanied by his equally quirky Baptists on guitar and violin.

Seldom do audiences see such a lively act at the festival, whole-heartedly committed to political satire and striving for a balance between surreal departures and social commentary. The band’s niftily composed lyrics and Flight of the Conchords style show real artistry but always remain grounded in something meaningful and current, as the songs frequently parody recent cuts to public funding and local issues such as library closures. There is also a deeply personal core; Donahoe speaks about gay men giving blood, borne out of the controversial lifetime ban introduced in the 1980s and performs anguished songs of lost love to audience members. The enthusiasm, avidity and passion of the band radiate well after the gig has finished, with Tenacious D-esque fieriness and heart.

Underbelly Cowgate, run now ended.