Today is all about what is colloquially known as the tricky second album. But before we get to that, we cannot begin without a quick mention of the most important meal of the day.

One of our guys flew in this morning on what Americans would call the ‘red eye’ – 4am start, 6:30 flight, Edinburgh city centre at 9:00, just in time for breakfast. And, as always, MacKay’s On The Mile did not let us down. Traditional Scottish all round, and I’m still not sure if any of us have needed to eat since!

Basically the perfect gear-up for a first day at the Fringe. So, let’s get back to the show…

Monkey Barrel 2 is set in what is usually a potions bar, immediately setting expectations for a little bit of magic. And last year, that is exactly what this clown delivered. Eric Rushton was one of our highlights from the 2025 Fringe, so we’ve been looking forward to this one.

Our clown takes to the stage in a grey Man United shirt and what looks like Team Jamaica tracksuit bottoms. It’s the sort of perfectly meh look for a performer who is constantly looking to downplay his talent and intelligence.

This is another beautifully awkward set, covering everything from the usual levels of depression to his relationship with his mum (who he DEFINITELY doesn’t fancy), alongside his childhood attempts to change his life and save the family… Oh and the dartboard he got for his birthday.

There are a bucket load of knowing winks throughout the show, hinting at just how much of this clown’s act is actually character comedy. In less confident hands, this routine could be too awkward to work, but Eric Rushton is fast perfecting the art.

There is no doubt that this show isn’t quite as good as last year’s, but that set a very, very high bar. This is still a thoroughly enjoyable hour of comedy from a performer who has created a brilliantly awkward character and knows exactly how far to push him.

I love the style, and this is definitely a clown to watch in the future.

Clown Stars: * * * *

@Monkey Barrel, Edinburgh