February in Norwich Comedy Crypt - Mr White's Overview

Comedy! You may have noticed that we - Mr Mason and I of White Mason Reviews, that is - have taken it upon ourselves to bring our scrutinising eyes upon the comedic jaunts gracing Norwich on more than one occasion. Indeed, although it is Gonzo's Comedy Night that most frequently tickles our funny-bones, it would be remiss to not turn our attention to another venue of japes rising in our midst.

Your humble scribe speaks of the Comedy Crypt - a monthly event in which the rising starlets of the UK comic scene pile into a dank medieval cellar with a variety of inebriated people. It's significantly more fun - and significantly less sinister - than it sounds.

Furthermore, it is with a heavy heart that one must chronicle that alternative happenstances and an altogether busy week (Aroma, rum, pirates, girls dressed as pirates) saw Mr Mason and I unable to attend our beloved Gonzo's Comedy Night for February. Did you attend? We hope you did, and we hope it went well.

Either way, with local hotshot Nelson T Gombakomba Junior taking the stage as headliner for the Comedy Crypt of 18th February 2016 - flanked by a roster of familiar and unknown talent besides - it was apparent that some White Mason Reviews perspective was in order. With Mr Mason alternatively engaged, it fell to Mr White alone - ever your ebon-and-crimson chronicler - to slink into the crypt like an eel into a catflap. Except unlike an eel that has just travelled through a catflap, I did not flounder about the place and then embarrassingly die - no no, I instead evaluated the evening's shenanigans for later tabulation, just like eels don't, due to their lack of writing appendages and general disinclination to hold an analytical mindset regarding the performing arts.

However! You know the rules! For a full comedy review, both Mr Mason and Mr White need be present, that our contrasting analysis capabilities be brought to bear. Given that only I was present, this shall be but an overview of proceedings, as utterly enjoyable as they were, in earnest hope of attending again come March, alongside the erstwhile Teege.

Yes, it was that good - in fact, the TL;DR version may as well be, well done everyone, this was an excellent showing of comedic talent.

The evening's events were conveyed by the Master of Ceremonies, Ross Downes. Mr Downes is a familiar face to White Mason eyes, having frequently performed at Gonzo's Comedy Nights - in which he waxes lyrical on relationship stereotypes and the bitterness of divorce. However, it was delightful to discover that Ross actually excels in the role of MC, interacting vividly and confidently with the audience, and holding the attention of the room with considerable regard for both genuinely funny one-liners and a good grasp of timing and pacing, ensuring each act gets their fair share.

The first act of the night was also a familiar face - indeed, February's Comedy Crypt was opened by Adele Cliff, whose frequent Gonzo's Comedy Night performances are backed by her trusty notebook o' puns. Her performance here was a similar story, entailing garrulous cringe-puns administered with cheery joie de vivre, alongside her habit of walking into the audience with leading questions about shared interests, ponderously analysing her notebook all the while. I've previously described her performances as 'weaponised awkwardness', and this audience was pretty receptive to her wordplay. Adele clearly loves what she does, and has honed a fine set, although we're eager to see what else she can make happen - more puns, more evolution of her stage persona, even more of the wry improv she's capable of throwing out when events deviate from her plans.

Also taking the stage on the night of 18th February was Mustard Xav, probably the most 'nice guy' comedian you'll ever meet - although not at the expense of wit. Indeed, he instead guided the audience on a pleasant and comical voyage through European cultural idioms, culminating in a surprisingly raucous sing-song about a girl he met in which any naughty rhyming words were substituted at the last second with something innocuous. It worked far more effectively than I can even make it sound - I'd enjoy seeing another performance!

When Tom Masters took the stage, it was as replacement for an act that had cancelled, yet he handled the situation admirably, delivering dry, deadpan and intellectual humour - though not so lofty in the brain-box as to alienate the audience. Instead, he clinched a fine balance, and even leant on the fourth wall in admitting that he had written lots of notes on his hand but, reading them back, now had no idea what most of them meant.

In fact, the talent remained consistently strong throughout the evening, with a variety of comedy styles that flowed in a complementary way, each of which being eagerly met by the audience. Catherine Bohart played on sexuality and gender stereotypes to tremendous effect, telling tales of how whenever she came out of the closet to people, they would double-check if she was sure due to her conventionally feminine personal style - a fine framing of prejudices brought to light with lightning Irish wit.

And when Tom Mayhew took the stage? Well, if Adele Cliff represents weaponised awkwardness, Mr Mayhew is a warhead of mass anxiety! "I had a girlfriend once," he remarked, courting coos from the audience, before looking around sullenly and adding, "...That was a joke."

Tom was a delight, flatly delivering a roster of riotously funny anecdotes about his vaguely misanthropic lifestyle, after which he selected a 'new friend' from the audience - a jocular drunkard who was just happy to be in the room - and after confounding him with a series of social obligations for friendship, dismissed him again to applause. Indeed, this succinct roundup does not do his set credit, and I look forward to attending future performances.

Similarly on fine form was Al Wycherley, another frequent Gonzo's comic who has seriously boosted his comedic chops since we saw him last. Soaring from local humour - a wise opener indeed - to a hysterical set about the musician Adele, Mr Wycherley has evidently hit his stride, and was one of the evening's strongest performers - no small praise, given he was among such a talented bunch. We love seeing comics we thought we knew surprising us in fantastic new ways, and you can be certain White Mason Reviews will keep a close eye on this one.

Nelson was a comedic onslaught, with
every joke captivating the crowd.

But let's be honest. Let's look to our headliner, Mr Nelson T Gombakomba Junior - and let's put our damn hands together, because the big man with the plan utterly stole the show in one of the strongest performances I've ever had pleasure to witness him administer. Dressed in a hitherto-unseen casual style - a contrast from his suited and booted stage persona - Nelson wove established hits and brand new jokes into the perfect formula. Not a single punchline eluded the audience's peals of mirth, and his hilarious cultural jabs - where trips to a urinal become 'handling industrial machinery' and where anecdotes about school nurses take darkly priestly turns - were met with resounding approval.

Nelson rounded off a sensational night of excellent performers, each of whom left a tangible and electric buzz in the air. In fact, the Comedy Crypt at large is one to watch if you're after a fine evening in the Fine City - it's not as easy to find as Gonzo's Comedy Night, perhaps, but trust the sidestreets... and you'll be led to a cavern of comedic capers well worth your attention. Be assured that White Mason Reviews will be back in force!

A Moment With Nelson T Gombakomba Jnr - A White Mason Comedian Interview

It's no secret that both Mr White and The Teege like a jolly good chuckle, and our predilection for appraising local comedic talent has seen us fortunate enough to cross paths, shake hands and exchange pleasantries with numerous artisans at various levels of the comedic craft - from fresh faces to established acts. If you've attended the ever-entertaining comedy nights of Gonzo's Tea Room, as we have on more than one occasion, you'll be familiar with the fine fellow upon whom 2016's first interview focuses. Kind Teege, might you elucidate...?

So the great Nelson T Gombakomba Junior decided to grace us with his presence one afternoon in the lovely Playhouse Bar. Dressed in his smart attire, his smile was beaming as always as he shook our hands and settled for our talk. Coffee was his choice of beverage - always a good start, as we here at White Mason Reviews believe, given our love of blends and beans of all kinds.

In today's article we will be getting to know Nelson more fully. Coming from Zimbabwe, his childhood is described as one shaped by religious schools and with strict upbringing - and therefore, he always wanted to get away and see what the outside world had to offer. When moving to the UK at 17, the difference he saw enticed him to stay.

Nelson is - as one might expect from an individual who frequently bares his soul on stage - cheerfully candid about his journey, relating its nuances with fond grins and relaxed, easy-going gestures. "I always remember the mountains surrounding Mutare," he notes, referring to the eastern Zimbabwean city in which he grew up. "Going to Catholic schools there always felt quite insular and conservative - it gave me so many questions, and I never really believed a lot of the things I was told."

As a consequence, Nelson's youth was formed by an inquisitiveness that, it would seem, could not be satiated by the circumstances surrounding him. One gets the impression that the more he was told how and what to think, the less inclined he felt to think it. As such, the marriage of a liberated mind and the freedom of the stage made his dream of being a comedian all the more profound - yet even then, he admits to us, it was some time after his arrival in Britain before he elected to make that dream a reality.

These days, Nelson has his mainstay here in Norwich - which we will touch on later - but always finds time to travel to London for some new and exciting venues. After a successful debut at the famous London Comedy Store, he is returning to perform again in due course, and he has also performed in King of the Gong.

Nelson stands a very understated man, holding high reserves and not pushing his place the world, but instead understanding where he's from and what he wants to achieve. With high goals, but none too unreachable, it's nice to know Nelson holds Norwich as a firm mainstay and wouldn't forget us should he become more famous than he already is! "Even if I became a big star, I wouldn't forget Norwich and I would still like to keep the Gonzo's comedy night running," he remarks.

In the process of both preparing Norwich's forthcoming Gonzo's Comedy Night - scheduled 29th January - as well as chuckling nervously whenever quizzed about his big return to London's prestigious Comedy Store, it's apparent that Nelson's nimble mind never stops whirring. "Gonzo's can be a brutal venue if you're not prepared - and in London, it can be worse, because you're up against some guys, they might've been performing 20 years or more," he explains. "The secret I've learned is to just enjoy the moment. If an act goes on stage setting him or herself up - 'Is this my big night? Is this when I get signed? Is this when I get noticed?' - you'll just tense up."

What's surprising about Nelson's craft is that he has only been performing as a comedian since as recently as March 2014 - yet less than two years later, is performing in London, is active in the Norwich circuit and is instrumental in arranging each month's gig at Gonzo's. "It's about what you tell yourself before you get on stage," he reveals. "Get excited. Be in the moment - don't be a perfectionist. I guess it's similar in a lot of the arts... people want to be famous, want to be recognised. As natural as that is, if you give in to that too much, it stops your personal growth... slows your progress. I used to get hooked on that buzz, on building up a big hype in the room and enjoying it afterwards, but it just fades like..." Nelson pauses, grinning broadly at his own analogy to come. "Like a bad one night stand, where you're just there afterwards like... why did I do that?! But if you get rid of that need for validation, it gives you a lot more freedom."

The man on stage is as much as the man who sits before us, humble in his words and never over-extending the conversation. Yet with each gig's destination differing in terms of diversity, he informs us of the technique that he as a British-African comedian may break out when the need arises.

"I always have to get rid of the elephant in the room in less multicultural cities, you know? I'm black, yes - and...?" Using comedy to break that wall lets Nelson's style of relaxed narrative flow through the audience... not forgetting the insatiable Zimbabwean twang mixed with his hilarious cockney impersonation, which is wonderful!

 Prejudice and comedy are often bedfellows, and although we're in the 21st Century and most audiences are tolerant in their perspectives, it's fair to say that your average Norwich audience, although diverse, would be nowhere near the cultural blend and fusion one might expect of a gig in Britain's capital, for example.  "The jokes I use to ease that tension, they're one-liners and stereotypes - they break the ice," Nelson says. "I wouldn't base my whole performance around it - using your heritage for a joke only works once per audience, you know? But what I love about Gonzo's is that it's become where I test and develop new material, find out what works, and then take the best of it to London. Because the events are monthly, it means I'm constantly working on new material."

Indeed, we've had the pleasure of watching Nelson's comedic arsenal grow - but how would he describe his approach? "Conversational," he replies, grinning. "I've never liked the whole... set-up, set-up, punchline, you know? If there's anything I could say to upcoming acts, it's just to be brutally honest with yourself. Like... if you're the 'funny friend' in your social circle, that's great - but does that mean you're a comedian? It's completely different on stage. You have to factor in attention spans, you have to keep yourself in line by not overreaching for fame or attention... it's about self-awareness and knowing your limits. With things we do at Gonzo's, like the audience participation, the Two Minute Touchdown where people can get on stage and perform for two minutes, things like that... we're encouraging new talent. But you have to work with the audience - you can't blame them if they're not laughing at your material, because ultimately that's your job to get right!"

So who of the great comics of the globe have inspired our interviewee most? Nelson mentions a few big names - notable ones, like Chris Rock, Billy Connolly and Jimmy Carr. Nelson's profound love of the conversational style of delivery clearly comes true in his expressions towards other comics.

His remarks on previous performances at Gonzo's are noted towards everyone developing, and whenever an old act steps forth on stage there is something new, bigger and better about them. "One thing I'm hoping we'll see more of at Gonzo's is female comedians, although that's not me trying to be inclusive just for the sake of being inclusive," Nelson tells us. "Although it's a tough thing to get into, my experiences have shown me that Gonzo's is a pretty safe place to try fresh material."

Nelson's notions are interesting, and we'll of course evaluate the meritous hysterics of any and all who take to the stage - for such is the White Mason Reviews way. But taking Nelson's journey into consideration, what would he define as his proudest onstage moment? "Definitely performing at the London Comedy Store," he answers, cheerfully fizzing with excitement. "The fact I got invited back just makes that even sweeter! London comedy clubs are so much more of a target audience. In Norwich, even with comedy nights, you're performing to a mix of people, especially in Gonzo's - some people at our comedy nights are just out for a night out, but we're happy they join in our fun. But in London? If someone's watching you at the Comedy Store, it's because they've come out just to see stand up comedy. The stakes get higher, but also, there's less of a line to cross with the audience as a result. It does your material justice and it lets you refine it at a really high level."

Impressive successes surround Nelson as he advances his art, but we all know even the greatest performers have overcome some false starts. Nelson agrees as he candidly relates his earlier material. "I used to do a routine about some fat girl I supposedly dated - that was at my third ever set, at The Birdcage in Norwich," he recounts. "It went down well, but it was during the times of me... figuring out my niche, you know? But I watched footage back a year later, and although I was getting laughs, I felt really uncomfortable watching it back. It felt like I was taking cheap shots, even though the girl I was talking about was completely fictional. It made sense at the time, but it's not part of how I do comedy today."

Nelson's comedic nature, along with that beaming smile, brings a delight to any show. His beginnings touched on the stereotypical, addressing his race and the vices and virtues that one may encounter. Upon development, his relaxed style, never rushing into a pun, but letting it settle across the audience, brings air to the conversational style he embodies. But the question on my lips was towards the darker side of comedy - those hecklers. Nelson's smile widens at this point in time, and to my question - "How do you prepare for them?" - he has a very simple answer. "I don't..." he laughs. "I just live in the moment and respond with something spontaneous." He continues laughing... Nelson goes on to explain how he has always had the natural urge for comedy.

We relax and have another round of drinks, and the conversation swings to previous comedic encounters, we refer to Mr Alexander Oliver and his crazed frantic life. I talk about the time at a gig when he turned to me and enquired to what I might be doing on my phone in the middle of his set... my reply was simple. "Reviewing YOU!" Suffice to say his remarks quickly redirected. Then Nelson and I turn our talk to Ryan Cross, another performer, and this writer's former loathing of his works (now en route to being rectified). Further, we realign the discussion to if, on Nelson's first performance, he could have some advice from someone more experienced... what would he say?

"Don't touch the Frankie Boyle-esque offensive jokes first - you may start a reputation for just offending people," Nelson advises. "That is never good! Offending the audience is always a bad start. If they are on your side they are much more likely to interact with your joke, and not have a discussion among themselves." We went on to discuss examples of the tragic woes that were, to which Nelson adds, "Don't get subdued by a bad night - enjoy every moment you have onstage, good or bad. Either way, it's experience."

So what's next for Nelson? Beyond his excitement for the Gonzo's Comedy Night on 29th January - "It's gonna be crazy!" - this zesty Zimbabwean is approaching the coming year with a mixture of gusto and groundedness. "I got approached in London for a corporate gig, a pretty huge set, but I turned it down - I know I'm not ready yet," Nelson outlines. "But even if I did make it big, and played London and other places a lot more, Norwich will always be home. Gonzo's Comedy Nights are my babies, and I want to help make everyone who comes out glad they did, and see growth month on month."

With a degree in Law and a relaxed outlook on life, there's no doubt that if Nelson's making things happen, he's doing it for us - and with us. Already in talks with both the acts and the proprietors of his favourite venue to get events livestreamed worldwide, he's keen to see what he and his contemporaries do being documented. "Right now I'm continuing to work with acts, figuring out how best to position them in the line-up based on their comedy styles," Nelson sums up. "I'm really happy with how things are going - we've got new and repeat acts, and those who get invited back I'm giving breathing room, so they can continue refining their material and bring us new laughs. There are a lot of new faces to Norwich coming in January and beyond, and we're going to continue keeping it fresh and diverse."

Every show of Nelson's we have had the pleasure of reviewing has seen his comedy never fall below a 4/5 star rating. This also stands true of this afternoon spent with him - the sparkle this man can bring to a somewhat dull rainy Norwich afternoon revived us with a new intensity. He has a small segment in the London Comedy Store, prior to this month's Gonzo's, which is coming on 28th January. Not one to be missed! But for now, Nelson, we thank you and await what's to come on our next visit to Gonzos's Comedy Night on 29th January.

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The Teege and Mr White signing off!

The Waffle House - The Teege Critiques!

So the Waffle House, a Norwich mainstay for the last 38 years, brings a unique style of food to Norwich. Priding themselves in fresh local produce and their crispy waffles. Each order being individual, their organic produce brings the palate to life - but as always, there is a catch. Most of the time in other establishments, this turns out to be the price, or the quantity... In the Waffle House of Norwich it's neither... just simply that you must be willing to wait.

When we arrived, the queue was winding out the door and it was 6:45PM on a Saturday night! The wind blew hard, but slowly and steadily we moved forward until the warm embrace of the delightful smells enraptured our senses. The greeting from a young gentleman of no more than 22 years of age offered us a table by the window, or round the back by the noisy tables. Naturally reviewing the food, we opted for the window seat to not just peruse the menu, but the chef... who notably wasn't running around, but as each order came through, it was dealt with in a swift manner. 

Modern, sleek black-clad staff trotted hither and thither through the swarthy, comforting waffle-fumes, and noticeably each held a smile and a fondness for their vocation that's so often lacking in the restaurants of today. The Teege's assertion that patience is necessary in order to enjoy the fine flavours of the Waffle House is by no means inaccurate in its veracity, yet the culinary delights that follow such a commitment are frequently worth the wait.

The ambiance of the place is that of a thrumming and quiet bustle, replete with light and welcoming decor and comfortable, sturdy seating. As such, waiting for one's meal never feels tiresome, and it becomes engaging to watch the chef conduct his craft and the waiters thread amid tables hosting families, couples, friends and acquaintances. Just another night for the staff, you might say, but a cosy event for all of whom have chosen to make the Waffle House their chosen venue.

Down to the main event - the order. Drinks of choice were the berry smoothie, refreshing and made thick with fresh Greek yoghurt and berries of the winter variety for oneself, and the chocolate malt milkshake for Mr White, of which he noted, "You can stand a f***ing straw in this! Wow!" ...So I believe he enjoyed. My order was the pan roasted duck with parsnips, kale and a beetroot and horseradish sauce. To test the staff, the replacement of the sauce with cheese sauce was quickly dealt with and they were never bothered in complying. Mr White's order was the ever-amazing bolognese with grated Parmesan to top. His delight was apparent as he began his journey into the intense herb combination and smooth sauce.

Attentive but not intrusive service, - though nothing to note upon - brought a very relaxed nature to the table, and the discussions of future endeavours crossed our lips. Again, no names to remember for the servers, but upon discussion we believed she was of an Eastern European nature with a beautiful accent. The main courses all round received were truly good, nothing to make them stand out nor hide away... just a good solid meal of profound succulent taste and textures.

Discussions of dessert arose, and we concluded in concert that we ought to appraise the namesake foodstuff of the business in earnest - that is to say, we opted for a plain waffle apiece, with maple sauce added individually to taste. Grand slabs of delicious square-flecked splendour were to follow, light and fluffy, yet with a delicately crafted crispness to the outer exterior that welcomed the teeth through into a white, soft interior.

As one would expect, the maple syrup was exquisitely delivered, and stood in the centre of our table in a stylish black receptacle for the entirety of our meal - a silent and vigilant arbiter of sweetness awaiting service. Pleased was I with the application of such liquid, flowing from the jug like molten gold and stirring the palate in its glooping dance amid the canvas of the waffle before me.

In short? A characteristically florid appraisal of a fine and delightful dessert - and one is already planning to try out the breakfast menu when able. The versatility of the waffle has been truly realised through this sojourn with The Teege, but let's be honest - you can't beat a bit of maple syrup, right?

In short... Mr White... Good all round experience, nothing too outstanding but nothing sub-par. I have encountered this restaurant before and had some quality meals... Maybe the standard has dropped over the years as they have begun to rest on their laurels, Time will tell - I'm sure we will return, maybe there will be a change of pace and it will bring a new passion forward, but for now the Waffle House maintains a solid 3/5 stars on the Teege's table.

Having visited the Waffle House for the first time in some years with The Teege upon the night hereupon chronicled, I was pleasantly surprised and delighted by both the service and the food. The meals of both savoury and sweet natures were devoured with gusto, the milkshake was of an aplomb not so much inviting the boys to the yard as starting raucous celebrations at its creamy and delectable flavours, and the ambiance was notable in its serenity.

4/5 from Mr White, with the notion to return and consume at a not-too-distant juncture to come - will the Waffle House sustain its brilliance?

From restaurants to performers to games to books to movies to entertainment to nightlife to any and all experiences that pass our perspective, White Mason Reviews is always happy to get in touch with business owners and purveyors of fine experiences, check out our Facebook page and get involved!

Aroma's Guatemala Coban Beans Blend - A White Mason Coffee Critique

In late 2014, the Tombland region of Norwich -- veritable Fine City and East Anglian economic hotbed -- welcomed a plucky new business to its midst. Ensconced among a growing roster of cocktail bars eager to conceal their identities behind confounding names-with-numbers-in, that business was a coffee shop and cocktail bar hybrid -- and today, Aroma remains an individualistic fusion of bustling coffee shop and aspirational nightlife venue. As arguably the strongest independent coffee shop in its immediate neighbourhood, Aroma is the impassioned brainchild of young sibling entrepreneurs Tom and Mercedes, and has established a cult following of loyal patrons -- your humble writer among them -- enchanted by the spirit, vitality and warmth of heart that the enterprise represents.

 So... Aroma, the ever-changing coffee-cocktail-bar, has now started selling their own brand of coffee. Let's see how this pans out...

Mr White, my aforementioned compadre, has from the beginning of time promoted Aroma as a splendiforous place of magic and wonder. I have wandered into their effervescent store on a few occasions... mainly when intoxicated after a night out with Mr White at our mainstay, Gonzo's Tea Room. Aroma in itself is a surprisingly quaint place -- with, at times, startlingly loud patrons! The rustic interior, accompanied by a traditional Victorian-style layout over three floors, brings the character that is Mercedes and Tom's little hole of wonder to life.

Now down to the main event... aside from the tequila cocktail I was provided with on my last visit to Aroma, MR WHITE.

I regret nothing. A tequila'd Teege is a sight to behold indeed. That said... still not entirely comfortable with The Teege referring to one of my favourite places in the city as 'a hole' -- even if it is a 'hole of wonder'. Would not a 'grotto of sensations' or a 'nook languid in conviviality' suffice?

Irrespective of semantics, my comrade in arms is correct -- Aroma's status as an established and individualistic business is clarified, and our appraisal of their first forays into selling custom coffee blends for home use can commence in earnest.

Debuting at £5.50 -- par for the course as far as the Fine City's independent coffee houses go, when it comes to pricing their own bagged coffees -- is Aroma's Guatemala Coban Beans bag o' brilliance. Emblazoned with the spirited little venue's established hues of black and orange, the label itself is very Aroma -- distinct, intriguing, and inclusive of cheeky humour.

But with Aroma's coffees among the finest in the Fine City, can this take-home bag of beans deliver the same sensations administered by the coffee shop's team of barista daredevils?

The Teege and I united in our quest for the truth -- and our initial agreement was that in order to entice the best from the blend, Aroma's coffee is to be made strong and potent. Indeed, although other artisan coffees will strike the palate with a cluster of vivid sensations, the Guatemala Coban Beans represent a smooth, at times even understated, soothing of the mouth and throat. Vivid discussion between Mr White and Mr Mason ensued, as we smacked our lips and furrowed our brows in pensive contemplation, pursuing a caffeinated consensus.

The Guatemalan Coban Beans are smooth in nature, and even smoother after five minutes resting in the cafetiere. Its dark nature and lustful undertones require a degree of nurturing in order to realise its finer taste. After some alteration of the strength of the concoction, and the heat of the water, I found it to be a rather floral note to begin with, the smoothness never leaving the palate as it follows into a dark, ashen finish. The overall darkness brought out an interesting note of chocolate, but I felt that something was missing.

Maybe it was the different character of this particular coffee, but there was no punch, no finishing flavour bursting through the palate leaving you mesmerised -- as would some of the single bean bags available from Strangers. Nonetheless, Aroma's is a good, well-rounded coffee. If I were to drink it regularly, it would be as a post-meal delight, with a leaf of mint in the beverage to lift the darkness and round off the taste -- but as this was blended by a fellow Tom, I cannot besmirch the hours of meticulousness clearly spent in honing this!

This is indeed a smooth and relaxing coffee -- a companion to a hectic lifestyle, rather than an
aggressive urge to wake up by exploding amid the tastebuds. Comfortingly dusky, Aroma's Guatemala Coban Beans represent the ethos of the coffee shop and cocktail bar perfectly -- charming, unique, and a home from home.

What I appreciate most of all about the bag o' beans I've acquired in pursuing this review is the consistency of the blend. Even those of us without the skill of Aroma's jocular staff can entice the velvety smoothness and subtle succulence of the beverage to the fore, and it is a blend that rewards patience in both percolation and partaking of its results. Black, with milk, or in any other roster of combinations, the same flavour resounds always, a lingering taste of relaxation and rejuvenation alike.

Taking into account the points as discussed, and thinking of the fun and jovial times I have spent with Mr White in Aroma's upper echelons, I have an undeniable fondness for the place. If you're in need of a coffee on the fly, or have some time to kill, stop by -- be it after work, or after a night on the town, enjoy the serenity that Aroma offers before your trip home. You won't regret doing this.

My honest review of this coffee alone, though? I'd say 3.5 / 5 stands for this blend. Tom? Mercedes? If you're reading, STEP UP YOUR GAME. I have tried numerous of your wonders and I know you're able to produce a stunning variety of textures and flavours. I will await the next blend with anticipation of grandeur and with heightened expectations!

My outlook on the Guatemala Coban Beans is 4 / 5 -- I've an appreciation for its enduring consistency, twilit charm and smokey throat-whirls. That said, I join The Teege in anticipation of what's to come -- and indeed, Aroma's own Tom frequently enthuses that a host of new bagged blends for all and any to take home and try shall soon be gracing the building's shelves.

Aroma's ambition is consistent -- Mercedes pursues an eternal evolution of the bar's cocktails menu, while Tom tweaks, tempers and tinkers with every coffee that the business produces under his gaze, determined to refine, refine, refine. That Aroma continues to strive to innovate and improve is admirable, given that the business is now well-established -- understandable, then, is our excitement at what's to come.

As for the current take-home offering of coffee and courage? Outclasses the majority of the city's peers, in terms of both chains (easily!) and independent artisan coffeehouses. Let the Guatemala Coban Beans grace your pantry, gentle reader -- let those dulcet flavours, relaxing and smooth, welcome you in after a challenging day, time and time again.

Gonzo's Christmas Comedy Night 2015 - Mr White Recaps

With the festive season behind us, let's discuss one of its highlights! Although an event usually held but once a month, December 2015 has seen a festive Christmas Comedy Night grace Norwich's unique and popular Gonzos Tea Room, hot on the heels of the rambunctious antics of the last. Although both myself and Mr Mason had the great pleasure of reviewing the prior occasion, the Christmas Comedy Night of 16th December 2015 clashed with each of our bustling lives -- as this time of year is prone to do.

Nonetheless, your humble scribe afforded himself the opportunity to sojourn to the grand venue and partake of its comedic delights in part upon the very night of December 16th. Therefore, I proffer in this article an overview, if you will, of the events as witnessed, together with insights garnered from some of the featured talent. It'd be remiss of us to conduct a review on the basis of only a part of the event as witnessed -- and without The Teege's input, the very dualistic nature of White Mason Reviews would be missing in action. A snapshot I provide, then, for your salubrious delectation.

Nelson on fine form

Gonzo's Christmas Comedy Night welcomed a sweep of comedians -- both those new to its stage, and those familiar with the venue. Indeed, the charismatic Master of Ceremonies and Gonzos mainstay, Mr Nelson T Gombakomba Jnr, was on-hand to administer his own unique brand of quick wit, wry observational comedy and outrageous remarks about life at large -- and joining him amid familiar faces 'neath the white glare of the spotlight were Alexander Oliver, Adele Cliff and Ryan Cross.

Ah yes... Mr Ryan Cross. He's a stalwart face in Norwich's comedy circuit, making regular appearances at Gonzos. It was during his set that your humble writer arrived on the scene, taking my seat among the patrons as Mr Cross conducted his works. It pleases me to tabulate that Ryan was on excellent form that night -- though his material as to my ear was often familiar, it resounded to yowls of laughter and appreciation to newcomers. Moreover, his newer material -- ever courting controversy, touring such topics as Syria and Fallout 4, as well as the myriad mysteries of human sexuality -- was both dryly delivered and proficiently paced.

However, Ryan's performance of the night really stood out through his hitherto-unknown-to-me talent for improvisational comedy, as a discussion with a couple in the audience regarding the differences between homosexual and heterosexual pairings finally culminated in his railroading the comical discussion back to his material with the exacting and deliberate wording, "When a couple, one of whom is male and the other is female, has sex -- which they are free to do, or not do, with whoever they choose to..."

Applause! And when he began citing White Mason Reviews' appraisal of his previous December performance to round up his act? Why, one was delighted, terrified and flattered in equal measure -- particularly in how he converted an unfavourable review into an observational dig at the pervasive freedom we all have to, essentially, be more or less unaccountable for our actions, thanks to social media. Nonetheless, this was Ryan Cross as strong as ever I've seen him, and it's apparent that his persistence and ambition are paying off. We look forward to what he will bring to future events -- and The Teege, when I related Mr Cross's performance to him after said gig, is similarly impressed. "He's stepped up and it sounds like he's improving. I'm actually excited to see him perform again!"

Other familiar acts of the evening were met with similarly appreciative responses from the crowd. Alexander Oliver, rising star on the British comedy circuit and frequent Gonzo's Comedy Night contributor, gave a much more assured performance on the night, incorporating audience interaction with his consistently hilarious one-liners ("Physically I'm 22, but mentally I feel more like two 11-year-olds stuck together..."). Speaking to your jocular scribe after his performance, Mr Oliver revealed that he had leant less on audience reaction than his previous appearance at Gonzos, and by easing his mindset, it's apparent that he opened up fresh opportunities for off-the-cuff humour that are otherwise challenging to find in such a complex gigging environment as this particular venue's L-shaped room. Indeed, he held the entire audience rapt for the duration of his performance, and we heartily enjoyed his combination of twisted tales, quick quips and addled despondency with modern life.

Adele Cliff in action

Adele Cliff last came to Norwich armed with a notebook, from which she proclaimed wafty prose about lovelorn elbow-bumping and queried audience members about their likes and dislikes -- their responses leading into wordplay and puns. It was a similar story for the gig of 16th December, flecked with some sparky ad-hoc antics. Although a simulacrum of sorts, her on-stage persona would seem, if anything, a concentrated interpretation of her genuine personality. One gets the impression that Ms Cliff would be a lot more content with the world if it featured more people giving her biscuits.

Such is not to diminish her intellect, that is -- upon prefixing my approach for a White Mason Reviews interview with a hearty handshake and a cheerful greeting ("Hello, Tony From The Internet!"), Adele responded to my appraisal of her comedic style as 'weaponised awkwardness' with enthusiastic agreement. "What intrigues me about the feedback that I get is that... some of what I do, it's not a million miles from what a lot of today's male acts are doing," she noted. "But it's nothing like most of the female acts. So I get told that I'm the only woman doing this style of comedy, which puts me in this really unique position." She fizzes with enthusiasm as she relates the nuances of her craft, and it's a sentiment shared with her peers within the room on any Gonzo's Comedy Night -- the talent is here because it wants to be here.

Indeed, Alexander Oliver's post-show discussions hinged on enthusing about the next gig in town. That said, he demonstrates the kind of urgency to improve that defines most of the great comics of our time, to such a degree that one often has to reassure him that he's doing fantastically well. As the room thrummed in the post-show buzz, that's exactly what main man Nelson did, praising Alexander's audience interactivity, before confiding in me his plans for the future. "2016 is gonna be big," he grinned, visibly excited as plans percolated in his rapid mind. "January 29th!"

The coming year looks grand indeed for Gonzo's Comedy Nights, which has now established a troupe of familiar headliners who each bring a different slant to a night's chucklesome endeavours. Yet fresh acts, both local and national, continue to grace the stage in ways that lace intrigue for the year to come -- and White Mason Reviews looks forward to a comical cornucopia in the coming months!

Strangers Norwich Roastery - Mr White's Coffee Contrast

Caffeine in Norwich is never in scant supply -- the streets of the Fine City burgeon with a smorgasbord of both titans of the double grande supremo lite whipped pumpkin spice cheese & onion soya monkeyccino (or whatever the hipsters are drinking these days), as well as the plucky independents honing the coffeehouse craft in avenues, lanes and thoroughfares galore.



Ah, my little compadre... you finally accepted my invitation to understand the quality that can be produced when the labour of love is put into an art form over something as simple as a coffee bean!

Alex Sargent and his band of merry coffee baristas have created a wonderful establishment just a moment away from the beating heart of Norwich. The coffee shop situated in Pottergate, opposite the ever-so-popular Grovesnor Fish Bar (which has a review to come I might add), serves a complete range of speciality coffee!

In short, competition for your coffee-cash is as high as your energy levels after imbibing just such lavish libations, and as such, it's tricky to fathom which establishment best befits your fine attention. The Teege™ heartily advocates the magnificent mochas and peerless percolations of Strangers, situated in the quaint Norwich Lanes. Indeed, said hub of happy beverages teems with custom at all hours, and the method behind such madness is simple -- the coffee is artfully crafted, meticulously roasted, tuned to your individual palate. In short, it's a business model evocative of the fact that the goliath chains consistently forget -- customers care about your business when your business cares about them.

Strangers, like many independent coffeehouses in Norwich and beyond, proudly sells a variety of specialised coffee blends in bags, allowing the customer the privilege of savouring the flavour at home. Yet this year, Strangers opened its roastery in a discreet backstreet close to its well-established bustle, and it is within this hallowed hall that coffee craftsmen conduct their fine works. Beans hailing from every corner of the world arrive in bulbous sacks of hessian hope, and from such beautiful brown bounty an array of aromas, flavours and sensations are conjured by experts equipped with a dazzling cornucopia of contrivances, contraptions and craftsmanship.

Yet even as a beating heart of industry, Strangers' new roastery retains warmth in its soul -- patrons are free to enter from the street to purchase coffee to go, as they would in any other establishment, and in quieter times the masters of the machine are known to cheerfully proffer free samples of the latest creations to curious visitors.

This is a place you must see to believe. Right in front of your very eyes, you get to see all the masters at work, from the procuring of such beans to the flavours that are to come. The knowledge-base centred here brings the coffee to life! If you have never tried coffee in its purest form, spend 10 minutes in here -- talk to the Dave behind the counter. He will open your eyes to what you could never imagine! 

Through such means, your humble White and Mason each were introduced to two fine flavours, concocted by Strangers in just this very roastery, diverse and delicious in very different ways. These were the Rocko Mountain beans from Ethiopia, and the Colombian crowning glory that is Augustino Forest. At £8.50 per bag o' purest percolating brilliance, both Rocko Mountain and Augustino Forest lean towards the premium end of Strangers' in-house spectrum, yet the flavours evoked by both are well worth the investment. Let's be honest -- you'll be lucky if you live on this planet a century. Life is short. So why waste time on lousy coffee?

Me gusta mucho.

Your humble writer's latest purchase from Strangers' hotbed of java jollities was, indeed, Augustino Forest, and said bean is enjoyable for its crisp, almost tart finish. Though a fine, smooth, rich and luxuriant coffee can be conscripted from the beans, each sip crescendoes on the palate with a saccharine, yet not overbearing, flavour of citrus-like zeal, flecked with the notion of orange chocolate. Sublime.

Equivocally, the Colombian delight is perfect for an autumnal afternoon with a book. It warms you with its gentle brilliance -- flavours that don't smother your mouth with a bitterness. The little hints of citrus sweetness complements the sharp. invigorating beans.

Yet for today's Coffee Contrast? The victor is undoubtedly Strangers' Rocko Mountain  -- simply for the fact that it alters significantly depending on how long it's been in the cup. Immediately after pouring? Earthy. Rich. Lustrous. Left for a few minutes? Hints of berries, notes of darkness, a tastebud tapestry that lingers in the throat and teases down the gullet. Whilst your humble writer knew that coffee could be diverse in flavour depending on origin -- even if the forays to Strangers' roastery have compounded such a fact in manners both stunning and enlightening -- I have never before the Rocko Mountain blend tasted a coffee that evolves.

I too have tempted my palate with the delights of these two very fine beans, and I must say I back my companion on this one. The Rocko mountain just nudges a nose ahead of the Augustino Forest, though this is not besmirching the delight from Colombia at all.

The Rocko Mountain's strong and vibrant dark tones harmonise well with the lustful fruity captivation. If you want a cup of a beautiful perfection-making morning-juice, then this is the bean for you. Don't stand around reading this! Go! Now! Find Strangers! Drink the black gold they have created and thank us later! ...Okay, maybe read the rest of this review give us a like and a share, but GO GO GO!

Ergo, betwixt both beverages, it's a resounding recommendation indeed for the Rocko Mountain. Hale, hearty and heaped with surprises, it also packs a powerful kick that will keep you buzzing beyond the norm. Nevertheless! There's plenty more caffeine to be had -- trust me, I'm a writer -- so rest assured that The Teege™ and I will continue to quest for the finest beans known to man. If you've recommendations of your own for Coffee Contrast, don't hesitate to get in touch... presuming we've not dashed across town, abjectly wired, to go stare in fascination at some tables.

(...You'd had to have been there....)

Dray Yard Smokehouse - The Teege Critiques!

Every time I pass this new eatery in the Fine City, I always see the establishment packed -- the smells, the sounds, it's enticed me. You shall be judged. It's time... for another "TEEGE CRITIQUES"!

Upon entry? Greeted instantly with the offer of whichever seat took our choosing. No booking comes to mind? It seems Dray Yard Smokehouse is always fully booked between 6PM and 8PM every weekday, and especially weekends. Seems we were lucky enough to arrive within a minute of two tables cancelling.

Our waiter, Shaun, meanders his way through the tables and greets us with a welcoming smile, with a genuine interest in how our days were... nosy? No, just a happy man who takes an interest! The offer of drinks is exchanged, but me and my company were locked in a furious debate over how Thrall is much better than Garrosh! And we therefore haven't even given our full attention to the menus. So focus we must. Shaun explains it's no worry, to take our time, and lets us know that the special bottles are on the board and if we need anything to let him know.

I perused the board and found a very interesting apple, whiskey and cinnamon cider -- and upon tasting, was taken aback by it, with the colours of rich golden fields glowing from the glass. My company went with a glass of rosé to support her order. "Fruity with a zesty punch", was her description. Now to the main course, which we were both looking forward to. I went with a combo plate, which was £16.50 in price -- that is not bad, considering the amount of food you get! So my company did as well.

Her unique choice of chicken and ribs was a combination of splendid, succulent and warming smoked barbecue flavours, tastes of zest dry rub and moreish chilli, together with cheesy macaroni goodness that can only be made by the hands of those with talent. Words are sometimes not enough to describe what the mouth can taste. This is when English loses itself as a simple 26 letter language, maybe we should go for Russian? Too harsh -- French, too fluid? Spanish, too temperate? Then combine them all, find the words, and deliver.

So when it came to my decision, it was simple -- what's cooked long and slow, with flavours of another world? It's obvious! Any pulled meat that's slow-roasted, smoked or stewed... so why not have all three?

Beef brisket that is slow-smoked for a minimum of 12 hours. Pulled pork slow-cooked and finally, pit beans -- a combination of both, stewed with beans. Yes... this is it. This is near enough an orgasm on a plate. Why has no-one considered this as a food?

The service was on point. After two bites into the meal, Shaun checked everything was okay, and left us to it. I think he could tell from the smile on my face that I was enjoying it. Maybe I have even found a rival to pizza. Yes, I said it, Tony™ -- a rival of pizza! I'll drag you kicking and screaming from your abode atop the hill to this house of smoky foods and open your eyes.





Why don't we just take everything you've just described and photographed and put it on a pizza, so we can have the best of both worlds?

Dessert followed after a cleared plate. Pecan pie. Yes -- none other than Staghorn's favourite (sorry to those who do not know of Oxhorn and his works)! But yes -- it was there on the menu and I went for it.

Chocolate brownie was the accomplice, and well met it was. Alas no pictures of these desserts, as I am afraid my phone's battery passed away. But to say the sights were that which any man or woman can dream about.

So to say this as my final piece, I am blown away by what is done here; there is much more to try on the menu, and I will be back hungry for more of what's offered. So bring it on, Dray Yard. Show me what you're made of. Show me the wonders of your kitchen. Let me know your secrets. I will be back.

4 / 5 Stars

Sweet merciful pogo-sticking Christ, in all my years of friendship with The Teege™, I've never seen him praise an eatery so highly! A rare accolade for what, it seems, is a rare and brilliant jewel in the Fine City's crown. Eagerly anticipating a visit of my own!