Comedy often comes from looking at everyday life just a little differently, and Montreal comedian Aseem has built his voice around exactly that. With a sharp, understated delivery and a love for dry British humour, he finds the oddities hiding in plain sight — whether it’s the absurdity of parking signs or the shared frustrations of Canada’s healthcare system, which inspired a bit that went viral in 2023. Ahead of his upcoming show, What’s Your Strategy? At Phoenix Books, Aseem chats with us about his influences, his writing-first approach to standup, and the moments that continue to shape his comedy.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I try to find oddities in things that seemingly appear normal. My style is sharp & witty commentary with understated style of delivery.
Who are some of your influences?
Comedy starts with writing, so typically my influences are authors who keep things interesting by sprinkling humour in their work, e.g. Bill Bryson. Some comedians who are also authors, e.g. David Mitchel.
I am a big fan of British comedy; there is a certain endearment to the dryness.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
I did not watch stand-up comedy growing up. I was introduced to this art form in my mid-20s when I was studying in the UK. That said, I took to comedy without hesitation.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Anthony Jeselnik – his joke writing is just immaculate.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I am a very talkative person in the green room. I was always the classmate who was unnecessarily social before entering the examination hall. While my classmates were buried in their books, my logic would be, ‘If you haven’t studied till now, what are you going to achieve in the last 5 minutes?’
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
My current favourite place is Phoenix Books. It’s a second-hand book store in NDG. It’s cozy, and it is warm and welcoming!
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
In 2023, I wrote a bit about the Canadian healthcare system, which went wildly viral (thank you, internet).
It reflected the general frustrations of dealing with the system, something which resonated with everyone.
I was proud of this bit because I found a hilarious way to complain about the system.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I see comedians in shows that I am on.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Montreal’s parking signs are like modern art; they are full of ambiguity, open to interpretation…but whatever it is, in the end, it’s going to cost you a lot.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I have a show coming up on Saturday, 14th March 8 PM at Phoenix Books.
It’s my standup show called: What’s your strategy? (tickets 15$ available here)
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about? (Links)
I am a fan of David‘s work. Relatable, hilarious, Montrealer.
