What I’m Watching: Psych

Psych: Season 4, Episode 7 “High Top Fade Out” (B+)

Who knew that Kenan Thompson (“Saturday Night Live”) and Jaleel White (Urkel from “Family Matters”) could play serious characters and do a good job? Granted, they’re not entirely serious, but they’re still fun and decently believable. Gus’ performance with his former a cappella group was extremely entertaining, and having them hire Shawn to solve their friend’s murder was a great setup for a terrific episode. The other unexpectedly amusing guest spot was Kurt Fuller (“Alias”) as a coroner with a propensity for making jokes, and his scene with Shawn was far more enjoyable that it needed to be, which was a wonderful delight. I particularly love how Shawn always suggests his father’s place as a good hideout for whoever may be involved in their case, and it’s surprisingly but hilarious that Shawn’s dad continues to allow him to saddle him with the job of watching increasingly unintelligent clients. Tony Todd being an undercover cop came as a bit of a surprise, but when it was revealed, it all made sense as an explanation about why Lassiter and especially Juliet were being so hostile. Juliet’s utter takedown of Shawn (when he got burnt again in Chile) was a great moment, and it’s satisfying to see her jealousy of Abigail finally playing out. It was obvious from the start that the subject of the e-mail was a song-related clue for the group to get, but them actually singing for it to be recognized was cool. After I said that the writers of “Monk” and “Psych” weren’t talking after reviewing this week’s episode of “Monk,” I was pleasantly shocked to hear the tech guy excitedly mutter “Bob’s your uncle!” just like Randy did on “Monk.” That can’t be a coincidence, but it’s sure a lot of fun.