Tom Ballard: Problematic (SCF)

Following an almost religious entrance onto the stage, good ol' Tom Ballard wastes no time diving head first into the wacky and wonderfully complex world of political correctness.

Frequently referring to the "leftie urban privileged elite bubble" he's resided in since birth, filled with smashed avo and varying forms of privilege, he's made one thing quite clear - he's angry. He's angry with the current state of politics in the US and Australia, he's angry with One Nation and he's particularly angry with One Nation politician and "dud root" David Oldfield.

Ballard's show feels a little like an improvised rant. He makes a note of regularly engaging with the audience and bouncing off their energy, but spends just a bit too much time waiting on feedback before any progression. Either that or it's a formula for making up time. His insults are still remarkably scathing and near second to none, repeatedly alluding to his distaste for David Oldfield and the difficulties faced in working with him on SBS show First Contact.

Freedom of speech, common decency, the prevalence of racism in Australia and the nuances of political correctness in today's day and age — Tom Ballard delivers just the kind of critical, sarcastic, self-deprecating comedy show you'd expect from, well, Tom Ballard.