Comedy: The best of the rest

Adam Bloom

is an accomplished circuit comedian whose reputation is flourishing. Though occasionally blue himself, he is at his best when sending up old-style sexism. "I've been on stage for about six minutes. Isn't it obvious I'm not the sort of bloke to call women `birds'? Isn't it obvious, sweetheart?" He headlines with the amusing Mandy Knight.

Monday Club, Madame Jo Jo's, London W1 (0171-371 6863) Mon

Arj Barker

Arj Barker, a likable stand-up, battles with British prejudices about his nation's sense of humour - or, lack of it. "So many people over here come up to me after shows and say, `you're pretty funny - for an American'. I feel like replying, `you have pretty good teeth - for an Englishman'."

Bound & Gagged, Tufnell Park, London N7 (0171-483 3456) tonight Bearcat, Twickenham, Middlesex (0181-891 1852) Mon