Groaners

Jeremy Arroyo wants the audience to boo. His debut stand-up album is built on the idea that bad jokes can be just as satisfying as good ones, actively encouraging the crowd to hiss and groan at his worst setups. The performance relies on a rapid-fire parade of dry, self-deprecating one-liners and deliberate anti-humor puns.

The album was recorded over two nights at the Maumee Mary & Joseph Comedy Festival in Fort Wayne, Indiana. At the time, Arroyo had written for The Onion and was building a regional following with his blunt, deadpan style. Tracks like “Sassy GPS,” “11 Toes,” and “Collapsed Horse” showcase his talent for finding absurd angles on his marriage, grandparents, and everyday frustrations. Comedy Dynamics released the digital album in July 2017, while Arroyo turned to Kickstarter to fund a limited run of physical CDs.