I cannot help it, whenever I see Michael Ian Black I think of a friend of mine whom I haven't seen in years (James, if you read this, you will be forever linked with Michael Ian Black). Don't ask me why. They really are nothing alike. Something kicked off that connection and I do not foresee it being severed.

Anyway, this is the first actual stand-up comedy I have heard from Black and it is pretty darn funny in a detached sardonic manner. I Am a Wonderful Man puts it's odd and dry wit front and center at the Lakeshore Theater in Chicago.

The first time I saw Michael Ian Black... well, I don't remember when I first saw him, or when I could come to call myself his fan. For that matter, I am not sure I have seen or heard enough to even call myself a fan. I certainly enjoy his material. I like the offbeat persona and downright odd projects he has been involved in, including his Sierra Mist soda commercials (with the likes of Brian Gaffigan and Kathy Griffin). I seem to remember seeing him briefly on Reno 911! and Viva Variety. I only know that he was on Ed as I never watched the show. I also recognize him from his participation in the VH1 I Love the 70s (as well as the 80s and 90s). My biggest exposure was seeing him on the short lived Comedy Central series Stella, not the original shorts, just the show. It was a show that I really liked, I loved his interaction with David Wain and Michael Showalter, and the overall bizarre feel of the show. I have even attended an early screening of his debut as a feature film writer/director: The Pleasure of Your Company.

OK, I know. You don't want to read about my shared history with Michael Ian Black. I am sure you would much rather know if I Am a Wonderful Man is a worthwhile addition to your collection. So, for those of you who are already fans the simple answer is "Yes."