Two-Headed Beast

On the first Saturday of every month at the back patio of Stories Books & Cafe in Echo Park, several seasoned stand-up comics (think Sean O,Connor, Eric Andre, Beth Stelling) put down the microphone and tackle traditional storytelling instead. Although most of these performers are used to working the road, the vibe is nothing like a club. Dave Ross, who produces and hosts the night with fellow stand-up Jake Weisman, says attending the show is like hanging out with family for an hour and a half. He's also quick to say that he and Weisman have darker sensibilities and tend to book those with the same. Or maybe comics just feel comfortable enough on the patio to show their underbellies—which are usually worth checking out.