Joe Jacobs: Ripe

In Ripe, Jacobs takes us through the stages of a banana corresponding to the stages of life; through stand-up and rap. Touching on drugs, dogs, success, decline and mental health, he shares with us the struggles he's facing at the moment. He's a natural performer and expertly deals with the (undeservedly) small crowd. One on one interaction and involvement is the name of the game and exactly the way to engage with a small room. 

I never thought I'd want to hear a rap from the the point of view of a dog, but turns out I do.

He also raps, and raps very well. He takes us on a musical journey through a variety of different genres, the lyrics and rhymes intelligent and leading to some excellent punchlines. I never thought I'd want to hear a rap from the the point of view of a dog, but turns out I do. 

But it’s not just the rapping; Jacobs is funny, engaging and he can spin a yarn. His comedic timing is on beat and there are many moments of comedy gold. Despite the small crowd, the individual interaction really works and I would hope it stays like this, regardless of how big or small the crowd gets.

Jacobs operates the technical elements himself, and he does a great job; however a venue technician would take a great show up to an outstanding one, smoothing out some issues with sound and space.

Ripe is definitely worth a trek over to Holyrood. Jacobs is a talented performer with the gift of the gab, and he seems a genuinely nice guy. Plus any show where I’m offered a chocolate finger is all right by me.