New York comic Paul Provenza promises to demythologise America, but he's a bit late. Few of us are exactly spellbound by the American dream these days, and Provenza's revelation that there's been a bloodless coup by a neo-conservative cabal is hardly shocking. Nevertheless, his smart, indignant perspectives are welcome. He has some choice material on po-faced, post-9/11 airport security, the highlight of which is his futile effort to keep quiet when asked: "Did you pack your bag yourself?" He berates Catholicism ("sex is filthy and horrid and disgusting and you should save it for someone you love") and celebrates New York.
Provenza is making a bid for Bill Hicks-style, straight-talking moral outrage - even if some of his opinions are pretty flimsy. He thinks the American lifestyle is unimpeachable, if only the Bush junta could be ousted. We, the American people,"have got nothing to do with what's happening. Help us out, and we'll give you some states back," he says. "Pick a Dakota, any Dakota."
As a performer, he is too cool to generate the heat that his material demands. But there's admirable seriousness of purpose and some big laughs. His account of a public toilet where cubicle doors were removed to keep gay coupling at bay is an excellent example of socially conscious stand-up.
· Until August 25. Box office: 0131-226 2151.
