^{Picture: Matt Crockett}

Larry Dean is on fire tonight in front of a packed-out, largely local audience. It’s joyous to witness and not surprising for an act who has been nominated for both Best Newcomer and the main Edinburgh Comedy Award, and whose star has been steadily rising over the last few years.

The Glaswegian is a master of stand-up and structure. He’ll take a staple, such as addressing how he looks (a bit of a ned) but offers the observation with a beautiful turn of phrase: ‘I look like I carry matches but don’t smoke’. His tale weaves through an eclectic bunch of topics and settings (Abu Dhabi airport, art gallery visits, farting in the bedroom and, finally, a funeral). But the through-lines are clear: Dean’s relationship issues and the value of strong friendship. There are knowing moments when the structure refers to itself, yet elements that are signposted early on still pleasantly surprise when they arrive. 

Monkey Barrel, until 28 August, 8.30pm.