Ep 1. Steve Martin/Eric Clapton

Steve Martin returns to host the season premiere of Saturday Night Live's 20th season along with musical guest Eric Clapton. The energy is high as the iconic comedian takes the stage, bringing his unique sense of goofiness and charisma to the opening monologue.

The first sketch of the night features Martin playing a cleverly named character, "Theodoric of York, Medieval Barber," who dispenses medical advice while also offering up some very questionable remedies. The sketch is a classic example of Martin's wit and comic timing, and sets the tone for the rest of the show.

The night's political commentary comes in the form of a mock-debate sketch, featuring Martin as former President Ronald Reagan and Phil Hartman as former Vice President Walter Mondale. The two go head-to-head on issues such as the economy, foreign policy, and of course, taxes. Through the use of clever barbs and spot-on impressions, the sketch manages to both entertain and poke fun at the political landscape of the time.

Another standout moment of the episode is a pre-taped piece called "Don't Look Back In Anger," which parodies the excesses of 80s rock music. In the sketch, Martin plays a rocker named Jack Bad; complete with teased hair, leather pants, and a perpetually unbuttoned shirt. The sketch also gives Eric Clapton a chance to showcase his acting chops, as he plays a straight-laced journalist who interviews Martin's character.

As always, the episode features several "Weekend Update" segments, with anchor Dennis Miller delivering his signature blend of clever one-liners and cutting commentary. In one segment, Miller even manages to work in a joke about a then-relatively unknown politician named Bill Clinton.

Other sketches of the night include a game show called "What The Hell Is That?", which features contestants trying to identify strange and mostly useless objects. Another highlight comes in the form of a sketch called "Parody Ad," which spoofs the overly-dramatic tone of commercials for medication. In the sketch, a group of friends debate whether or not to take a pill that promises immediate relief from all ailments - but with a catch.

Overall, Steve Martin's return to the Saturday Night Live stage is a welcome one, as he brings his trademark goofiness and silliness to a wide range of sketches. The addition of Eric Clapton as musical guest adds another layer of excitement to the evening, and the two men seem to have a natural chemistry on stage. Fans of SNL's classic era will no doubt find plenty to love about this episode, as it features the perfect mix of political commentary, clever sketches, and zany absurdity.