The Wee Man's Rap Battle Showdown

Review by Collette Cullen | 28 Mar 2012

Acts from this years' Glasgow Comedy festival are pitting their wits against some of Scotland's most talented rappers and, as someone completely unaware of a homegrown hip-hop scene at all, the prospect is intriguing.

Hosting the night is YouTube sensation, The Wee Man, whose brother Bratchy utters perhaps the most apt line of the evening during his 'battle' against Case One. "This is really difficult," he admits after a lyrical fumble, or 'choke' to those in the know, and he is by no means the only victim of this performer's curse.

The show gives rise to some of the most uncomfortable and cringe-worthy moments I have experienced to date. I'm not sure some of the MC's know this event is supposed to be funny and much of the vitriol they spew has the crowd squirming.

Many of the comedians, including Dogsh*t Johnson and the tortilla-throwing Pearse James, are vilified for their lack of free-styling pedigree. But while some do shamelessly read at points, something I don't remember happening in Eight Mile, they provide the most memorable moments of the night. Head and shoulders above anyone in the amusement stakes is the Reverend Obadiah Steppenwolfe III. He is commanding in his role as compere and has the experience and talent to devastate any upstart in his path.

Disappointingly, The Wee Man himself is unable to battle properly due to a scheduling conflict and this unfortunate ending sums up the failed potential of such a promising premise.

The Buff Club, March 24 as part of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival http://www.facebook.com/comedypubquiz