Gags, one-liners, knock knock jokes and amusing anecdotes from the one-and-only Neil Hamburger had Chicago comedy fans laughing at Lincoln Hall on May 11. America’s Funnyman spent much of the night slinging zingers at celebrities, pop stars and “legendary” rock & rollers in between sharing a few songs of his own.
Guitarist Erik Paparazzi introduced Hamburger to the stage without saying a word as he played an intricate – and extended – prelude to the iconic Heart hit, “Crazy On You.” As the comedian finally stepped out from behind the curtain, he delivered an impassioned rendition of Ann Wilson’s iconic melody, spilling a couple of drinks as the music swept him – and everyone in attendance – away. Paparazzi stuck around to accompany Hamburger on “The Straight Life” and then it was time for some jokes… but not before the comedian cleared his throat with a phlegm-filled flourish.
Shannon Hoon, Rob Schneider, the Grateful Dead, Liza Minnelli and 311 were all targets of Hamburger’s hilarious, well-crafted gags, but Gene Simmons proved to be the richest source for comedy. After several Simmons-inspired set-ups and punchlines, the comedian shared a hilarious tale that involved the Kiss guitarist, a pair of winos and an annual holiday tradition. “DJ” Diplo – one of Hamburger’s favorite Twitter targets – was also the subject of many hysterical bits, although the crowd seemed to prefer less contemporary references.
Hamburger’s ability to work the audience was impressive to say the least. “You’re going to have to share this present with everyone,” he said to a birthday boy in the front row before delivering a special joke in honor of the occasion. While Hamburger expertly read the audience’s likes and dislikes – more Britney Spears jokes less Alice Cooper jabs for the Cooperheads in the crowd – he wasn’t going to allow boisterous fans to interrupt his show. He declared that he has “no tolerance for blabbermouths” as he expertly and efficiently took down a “garbage man” heckler who rudely shouted out during the set.
While Hamburger often gets labeled as an insult comic, he shared admiration for several famous folks including Sir Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton and the members of Led Zeppelin. His highest praise went to Full House star, John Stamos, whose kangaroo-laden variety show was deemed “sensational” by the funnyman.
Earlier in the night, Major Entertainer Mike H proved to be the perfect “Opening Act” as he shared his love of all things horror with a series of infectious songs and dramatic effects which included handcrafted paper planes soaring overhead. His sound module – full of analog, old-school video game noises – accented the performance to the perfect degree.
Hamburger took inspiration from McCartney’s Wings single “Let ‘Em In” to close things out with a knock-out knock knock finale tailor-made for living in Trump’s America. Head over to AmericasFunnyman.com to check out the full list of tour dates as you don’t want to miss this amazing show when Hamburger and Major Entertainer Mike H come to a city near you.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)