Discover how British comedy icon James Acaster has evolved beyond stand-up by moving into writing, podcasting, and even music.
James Acaster, known for his unique blend of surreal humour and insightful commentary, has been a staple of the British comedy scene for over a decade now.
Expanding Horizons: Music and Collaborative Projects
However, most recently, he’s expanded an already burgeoning repertoire into areas he describes as “interesting and also absolutely terrifying”!
Announced in November 2022, his international music collective project Temps is a bold step into the realm of collaborative soundscapes. The debut album, Party Gator Purgatory – released in May 2023 – features an eclectic mix of music, spoken word and singing. It showcases 40 different artists, a raft of genres and bursts of unrelenting adventurous spirit.
Unique Approach to Music
In discussing his approach to it, Acaster emphasised the project’s unique nature. “I didn’t explicitly categorise it for anyone. I didn’t frame it as strictly comedic or intensely serious.
“My suggestion was more open-ended, essentially leaving it up to the simpletons who suffer it, to interpret as they see fit.”
James Acaster continues: “The use of an alligator outfit for the videos was another move to throw some chaos into an already messy concept, and I think that worked.
“Ultimately, it’s about challenging myself and stepping into new territories musically,” Acaster remarks. “This album is a journey, not just for me, but for everyone involved.
“A journey some may never return from.”
Genre-Blending Podcasts
His podcast Springleaf, where he fuses true crime narratives with comedy, further exemplifies a knack for genre-blending. Acaster finds humour in the human elements of the story, carefully balancing respect for the subject with his characteristic wit.
“Humour can be found in the most unexpected places. It’s about observing the absurdities in life, even when they’re hidden beneath the surface,” he explains.
Literary Ventures
His venture into the literary world with Classic Scrapes reveals yet another facet of rampant creativity. The book, recounting his most bizarre and hilarious misadventures, offers a more reflective and nuanced side of his storytelling.
“Writing gives me the space to explore these stories in depth – the kind of depth that’s not always possible in a stand-up set,” James Acaster shares.
In his second book Perfect Sound Whatever, Acaster passionately explores his obsession with music from 2016, deeming it the greatest year in music. He collected over 500 albums, including mainstream hits and obscure gems, while also interviewing artists for the book.
Comedy at the Core
Of course, at the heart of it, Acaster is a comedian. “Making people laugh can only work if you’re willing to laugh at yourself,” he offers. “Even the most serious of comedians are creasing up inside at the sheer perverseness of what their job entails – to stand in a room and get people to involuntarily lift their diaphragms.
“I mean, it’s an original route to therapy but there must be easier ways!”
Speaking about our ability to laugh, particularly in tumultuous times, the 39-year-old Kettering native suggests it’s more crucial than ever. “There’s got to be something to lift the fog, hasn’t there?
“The fact, in very small parts, that’s me, is terrifying but also a real inconvenience.”
Final Legs of the Stand-Up Tour
Regardless, James Acaster completes the final few legs of his stand-up tour in late May and June, following gigs in Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York and Toronto.
“They say the Yanks don’t understand sarcasm or irony, and I’m looking to put that to the test, because frankly my every other line is laced in the stuff.
“I think what is true is that comedy these days is such a global phenomenon, and we are quickly emerging to understand an almost shared language of laughter.
“If you find me funny in the UK, you’ll find me funny in America. And if you don’t, you won’t!”
