The ’00s will likely be remembered as the era “alternative comedy” broke. After the boom and bust of stand-up in the ’80s and the distinctly Seinfeld-ian ’90s, a new generation of smartasses arrived to stretch the limits and help redefine it. Full Article at The A.V. Club

1. A surprise set from melodic and heartfelt indie-rock power duo Mates of State is the perfect lead-in to a night of comedy from stand-up’s most endearing talent, Mike Birbiglia; both are the performance equivalent of friendly hugs. 2. He wasn’t drunk. Full Article at Time Out New York

The New York Comedy Festival kicks off today, and with 30 acts to choose from, PAPERMAG makes things easy for you with five assuredly funny shows that we guarantee will make your stomach hurt. Full Article at Paper Magazine

Home is where I want to be Pick me up and turn me round I feel numb – born with a weak heart I guess I must be having fun The less we say about it the better Make it up as we go along Feet on the ground Head in the sky It’s ok I know nothing’s wrong. . Full Article at Sports Blogs

Stand Up for Heroes Town Hall ; 11/4 at 8 p.m. ; 123 W. 43rd St. , nr. Full Article at New York Magazine

Stand-up comedian, off-Broadway star and sleep disorder victim Mike Birbiglia returns to Massachusetts this weekend. The Shrewsbury native has recently been involved with enough projects to tire out a fully grown horse. Full Article at Weekly Dig