Demetri Martin’s ‘Standup Comedian’

Where is Demetri Martin? Before his newest album, Standup Comedian (that will be released on October 2 of this year), this seemed to be a valid question. It’s been almost three years now since the unique comic stylings of Martin were readily available to the public via his Comedy Central show “Important Things.” And his last album Demetri Martin. Person. was released way back in 2007.

So the question stands: Where has Demetri Martin been? Well friends, after listening to his newest album, I have the answer. He’s been working. A LOT. And believe me, the wait has been worth it.

I love to see a comedian evolve from album to album and “Standup Comedian” is absolutely no exception. While maintaining his roots in the set-up punch/one-liner school of thought, this album presents the most polished, refined and relaxed Demetri Martin I’ve ever listened to. The primary differentiating factor is how much more conversational his act has become.

Previous Martin albums showed us a very rigid almost robotic joke machine who is all about business. Not to say there is anything wrong with that at all, it was simply the preconception I had going into his latest album. Instead, what I found was a Demetri Martin who seemed more natural and organic during this performance. There are obvious trends that are consistent throughout his discography, but on this particular album, it seems that Martin has shed his stage character and become comfortable in his own skin. His recent improvements to his act make this album an immense joy to listen to.

His material covers a wide range of material, and because of his one-liner format it’s almost as if there is no pause in the laughter. He does not put together elongated set-ups; before you can even stop laughing, he’s already on to his next ridiculous observation. And his observational humor is spot on. I love when a comedian tells a joke that warps my perspective on the world around me. After listening to Standup Comedian, I can never look at cows, Dalmatians, or modern day bathroom appliances the same way ever again. To me, that’s what signifies a great joke. Something that will be implanted and stuck in your mind for a while.

By far, the best thing about Demetri Martin’s evolved style is simple; it’s evident that from the beginning to end he’s having a great time. I mean, the guy opens his album with almost three minutes of nothing but crowd work. Who the hell does that on a recorded set? It’s amazing. He often takes breaks throughout to just mess around with the crowd and even laugh at his own wit and cleverness. Not in a douchey, arrogant sense – it’s more like he’s conveying to his audience and listeners, “Hey! I’m having a blast up here and you should be to.”

And he’s right. This new album was a wonderful change of pace to the Demetri Martin we’ve known for years. The evolution of his comfort level and delivery style makes his wit and one-liners that much more enjoyable. I recommend picking this album up as soon as you can. You can thank me later.

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