Album Review: Craig Fay, Performance Review

Performance Review is Craig Fay’s second comedy album. It doesn’t tread new topics, but he’s such a likeable, funny performer that it doesn’t matter. Whether he’s talking about standard fare, like office culture or ex-girlfriends, he’s so funny that you’re completely on board with anything Fay wants to talk about. 

Fay’s likeably is contagious and puts you at ease immediately. He’s nice, not in the traditional way, but as he puts it, in the “waves at squirrels” way. His delivery, which has the typical standup energy of a Seinfeld or Mulaney and everyone in between, makes for an easy listen. He’s at his best when he tells a story about a trip to Niagara. He hits a few of these moments where he sounds less like a traditional stand-up; He’s just a friend excited to share his thoughts or a funny thing that happened to him on a trip.

There’s a lot to recommend with Performance Review. Fay’s no doubt performed this material for years but there’s no hint that he’s bored or overprepared; It’s polished without ever feeling rehearsed. It’s the work of an artist who has hit his stride. I’m excited to listen to whatever Fay does next.

Performance Review was released October 21, 2022.
Listen to it here.