Justin Hamilton strides out on stage, amuses himself with his phone for a while, and then launches straight into a story. No niceties of ‘hey there, it’s great to see you all’, no banter with the audience. For him it’s all about a tightly scripted show, and some masterfully delivered stories.

I’ll be honest and say that Justin Hamilton was my favourite show at last year’s comedy festival, and this year, so far, it’s definitely a strong contender. He’s got a method of delivering his carefully crafted gags with such speed and timing, that you’re laughing at a few jokes at the same time. Compound laughter, ever experienced that? Hamilton’s jokes will make your jaw ache.

Hamilton starts off early with a bit of a curve ball, insisting all phones be switched on and encouraging flash photography. This bit of reverse psychology is then used as segue to promote his website content – he’s calling it a ‘phone app’, but if we’re being honest here, it’s a flashy website.

The rest of his show consists of some well crafted stories. An encounter with a friend’s son, a confused identity at a funeral, a disagreement with Christian audience members, crossing paths with a “gym ninja”. It might sound a bit unexciting, but it’s the way Hamilton tells these stories that sets him apart. There’s some bonuses as well: he’s the only comedian I’ve come across who uses the word ‘hashtag’ as a comedic aside (like he’s permanently on Twitter) and his Kevin Rudd impersonation is pretty damn spot on.

While his stories mightn’t have the most exciting content (he could benefit from an experience filled vacation), it’s the way he tells them that is the highlight. He has an enthusiastic, energetic hilarious presence on stage. See Hamilton’s show, you’ll be doing yourself a favour.

Justin Hamilton Circular is on in the Vic Bar at Victoria Hotel, 9:45pm until 23rd April.