Review: BUG XL Special

There's no need to envy London when Adam Buxton can bring the best of his BUG shows to Norwich in such charming style.

BUG - the Evolution of Music Video - Credit: Archant

Focusing on the worlds of music videos and internet commenting, BUG features its comedian compere leading us through some of the most entertaining and unusual promos interspersed with clips from the web and the wisdom of the 'below the line' commenters on YouTube.

This week's shows at Norwich Playhouse focus on the XL Recordings label, which recently marked its 25th birthday, and their esoteric roster that ranges from The Prodigy to Vampire Weekend.

Recent London BUG outings have seen guest hosts in charge, but Buxton was back at the helm and on fine form for tonight's show in Norwich, opening with film of him cycling through the city's streets to the venue. As with previous BUG nights, it's Buxton's wit and charm that really make the show special as he brings to life some of the more vitriolic and idiosyncratic voices that leave YouTube comments on the selected videos.

Sometimes though, all that is needed is to wallow in the breathtaking artistry of the films he shows: Christopher Bono's choral piece Unity was one of those. A far cry from the frenzied guitar sounds of the White Stripes shown earlier in the night, they nonetheless fit comfortably together in this wide-ranging show.

If you've got ears and enjoy laughing, there will always be something for at BUG.