On Risky Subject Matter, Identity and the "Alt" Scene

In the year I've been doing comedy it has become readily apparent (to me, at least) that I am not an "alt" comic. I don't really make pop-culture or obscure geek-culture references. I don't ironically riff on old tropes. I don't play around with weird, surrealistic meta-bits. It's just not me. Now, let me make this clear: there is nothing inherently wrong with any of the techniques and stylistic tendencies I just outlined as things I generally steer clear of. I know a lot of guys and gals who employ some, if not all, of these devices to great effect. These people are hilarious and I respect them greatly for what they do. It's just not a path I choose to walk.

I prefer to take a darker road. The subject matter I like to explore carries with it significant risk. I generally talk about things that baffle me, disappoint me or enrage me. Any given set I do will probably involve frank discussion about the failures of government, religion and humanity in general. I won't shy away from racially charged material either, nor will I gloss over my own personal flaws (such as my heinous social awkwardness). None of this is exactly cheery and I realize that I run the risk of simply coming across as a bitter old fuck with nothing remotely entertaining to say. I'm ok with that. What I wouldn't be ok with is getting up in front of you jackals and not telling the truth...or at least, my version of it.

This is a choice I'm consciously making so I can strip away the veneer that separates performer and audience. I'm not some terribly important public figure and my ideas are not sacrosanct and holy. In fact, if they ever became that I would have to publicly piss on them for sport. I'm no better than anyone in my audience. Frequently, in my personal life, I'm far worse. The only thing separating me from the audience is a shitload of bitterness and a microphone. I can only hope that it's funny, entertaining and maybe, if I'm really hitting it, a little thought-provoking and insightful.

Yours in fear, doubt and self-loathing,

Nate

PS: Check out these fuckin' shows:

Thursday, 8/19

Four Jesters of the Apocalypse, hosted by yours fuckin' truly

Yes, you can RSVP through that link and invite friends. Do it because I said so.


Tuesday, 8/31


World's Greatest Grandson
Van Gogh's Radio Lounge
Greenpoint, BKLYN

See you all there, fuckers.