Arthur Smith

At last year's Fringe, Sarfraz Manzoor won me over with a charming one-man show concerning his passion for Bruce Springsteen. This year, Arthur Smith returns to the subject of Leonard Cohen with triumphant results. All I can say is this: someone better be working on a Lou Reed Comedy Hour for 2014.

Technically, this is a continuation of Smith's previous study of Canada's greatest son – "Arthur Smith Sings Leonard Cohen, Volume Two" as he puts it. Nevertheless, no familiarity with Volume One is necessary to enjoy Smith's revelatory blend of dark, poignant music and dark, poignant comedy.

Smith is a skilled comedian, but the show would not be nearly as successful if it relied on his comedy alone. It cannot be understated that Arthur Smith sings Leonard Cohen incredibly well. Of course, your enjoyment of this will depend on how much you enjoy Cohen... But if you don't like Leonard, there's no hope for you anyway.

More than a mention should be given to the Smithereens, Smith's sensational troupe of backing singers, who impress on multiple fronts. Ethereal, playful and beguiling, the Smithereens are what completes Smith's tribute, recreating the haunting atmosphere of Cohen's music beautifully. On top of this, they are also great comedic talents, enjoying a comic chemistry with Smith and providing the punchlines to several of the best gags.

Audiences willing to take a chance on this refreshing and rewarding hour of entertainment will find that the music of despair contains many unexpected laughs.