Some comedians have a natural advantage over others because they simply have funny bones. Maisie Adam is one of those comedians. From the moment she walks onstage there is comedy in the air. It almost feels that whatever she says she will make you laugh. 

In Hang Fire the 2018 Best Newcomer nominee explores the subject of owning your own bad behaviour. With the aid of mug shots pegged to a washing line behind her she discusses various cases, from Mick Jagger and Hugh Grant's misdemeanours to more recent tabloid reports and lesser known cases. It's an interesting, original angle for a show. I'm not sure if it entirely holds together, but in a way that doesn't matter as everything Adam says is hilarious.

These familiar stories are held together by anecdotes from Adam's own life. She confesses to behaving badly in the past as well - her tale of a New Year's Eve house party which landed her in deep water with her parents will have you howling as the fallout plays out. Each line and each facial expression adds further humour, building to a delicious pay-off.

Adam, who grew up in Yorkshire and despite her strong accent says she is middle class (because she's eaten a meringue) also has an interesting family. A Catholic mum who quit her job to launch a punk festival and a classic dad who barely speaks. Adam draws such a vivid picture in a few sentences you feel as if you know them intimately. 

There's also lots of fun to be had listening to Adam recalling her schooldays and chatting about long-forgotten gym equipment or saying the word "wassock". And towards the end there is the obligatory splash of serious social comment. Maybe one of the problems with society – and politics – today is that nobody is prepared to own their mistakes. One thing is certain, this is an excellent show. Make no mistake about that. 

Maisie Adam, Hang Fire, Gilded Balloon until August 26. Tickets here.

Read more Edinburgh Fringe reviews here.

****