I knew there was something odd about this Lewis Black standup special when the first thing he started talking about was the hole in the ozone layer. I started thinking, “Hmmm. I didn’t know the hole in the ozone was still a problem.” Then I looked at the track listing and saw his bits were titled “Dan Quayle” and “President Reagan.” It’s after that that you realize that this probably isn’t a new set.

Don’t get me wrong. Lewis Black’s “The Prophet” is funny. If you’re into Lewis Black’s shtick of getting really angry and shouting until he goes hoarse, then you’ll definitely be satisfied. Unfortunately, what he’s known for is talking about current events. His hostility towards everyday life is always great to hear, so it’s just a little weird that you’re listening to his take on the Exxon Valdez oil spill.

Now maybe it’s just because I’m a history nerd, but I liked listening to these old rants. For instance, you didn’t have to be alive then to know that Dan Quayle was an idiot and it’s cool to have Black’s take on him. For a generation obsessed with nostalgia, this should be appreciated as a time capsule and as a snapshot of a currently popular comedian finding his voice.

– Henry Thaler

Tags: Henry Thaler, Lewis Black, stand-up, The Prophet