Dylan Moran is possibly the most lovable misanthrope who has ever lived. The Irish comic projects a great deal of misery and sheer, glorious crank in his standup, but he's almost impossible not to like with his keen intelligence, just unkempt enough to still be attractive looks, and perfectly wordy witticism that is tremendously appealing even when he's skewering something close to home. (Example: I rather like Fatboy Slim. And yet Moran's assessment of “The Rockefeller Skank” – “All I'm saying is that if you get a broom, say, and dip it in some brake fluid, put the other end up my arse, and stick me on a trampoline in a moving lift, I could write a better song on the walls” – is possibly my favorite music joke ever.) Moran's makes a long-awaited return to L.A. stages this week, where he's guaranteed to unload a grip of gripes on you and make you clutch your sides, begging for more. Largo at the Coronet, 366 N. La Cienega Blvd.; Wed., Sept. 8, 8 p.m., $20. (323) 855-0350; www.largo-la.com. Also at Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, 5919 Franklin Ave.; Thurs., Sept. 9, 8 p.m.; $5. (323) 908-8702; losangeles.ucbtheatre.com — Nicole Campos

Wed., Sept. 8, 8 p.m., 2010

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