Craig Robinson & The Nasty Delicious, Arj Barker, Dr El Suavo

Anyone expecting to see a fez-wearing magician in a wrestling mask tonight is either deranged or privy to insider information. Dr El Suavo performs kids-birthday-party magic while integrating incredibly non-kid-friendly aspects. The doctor is less about fooling his audience and more about just straight up messing with them. Suavo would definitely benefit from a later (drunker) audience, but his clamorous variety show is worth a couple chuckles.

DJ Chris Rob spins some classic hip hop and funk to whip up the Corner Hotel crowd. The younger brother of our esteemed headliner, Rob has just as much talent as his comedically inclined sibling, even treating the enthusiastic audience to some of his own tunes. He's definitely made a few new fans tonight.

Billed tonight as a "very special guest", the jovial Arj Barker takes to the stage with uproarious applause. For a man who's been doing this for over 25 years, "Arjy Barjy" hasn't lost any of his observant sheen and incomparable delivery style. Bits about Alzheimer's research and Melburnian self-righteousness are truly inspired, taking this already diverse program to new heights.

When The Nasty Delicious finally begin a wall of awe hits the raving punters. The band is a collection of some of the most proficient and impressive musicians around, complete with a three-piece brass section and Chris Rob back on keys. The band embark on an epic rendition of Strauss' Also sprach Zarathustra (or 'that one from the opening of 2001 - A Space Odyssey' as it's more commonly known), and Craig Robinson himself walks onto the stage amid a booming explosion of cheering. He's finally here; let's do this.

Robinson has more energy than a prime-era Mick Jagger, evoking audience participation, hilarious interactions and never once slowing down for the entire set. He is a sovereignty of good adjectives: musical, funny, soulful, sexy, and downright damn cool. He and The Nasty Delicious are a supreme example of just how good a band can be, with Chris Rob acting as bandleader and brilliantly incorporating cues and tech requests into the music itself.

From Gloria Gaynor to the Rocky soundtrack to Robinson's trademark Take Yo Panties Off mantra, it's hit after hit for the group. This is definitely more of a gig than a comedy show, but those who accept this fact are welcomed to a brilliant night of tunes and good vibes. The crescendo of the evening comes when Robinson walks into the crowd for a very close up dance party. Whether or not he danced specifically with yours truly is unimportant — but he did. It was awesome.