A review by readingrobin
Sing No Evil by JP Ahonen, K.P. Alare
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Sing No Evil's commitment to the metal aesthetic is what makes this comic stand out among other musically influenced graphic novels. I was already familiar with J.P. Ahonen, being a fan of his Belzebubs series, so I knew going in that I would love the art style. The characters are wonderfully expressive and the humor really comes out in their reactions, though my favorite bits are when the band really "gets into the zone" during their performances. There is a polished quality to the art, very clean and neat linework with a down to earth color palette. The colors get you into the mood for a fall read, perfect for the darker undertones of the story.
Speaking of, it almost seems like there are two plots constantly conflicting in the narrative, one about a band that is struggling to find their audience while dealing with issues from their interpersonal relationships, and the other about nefarious cannibalistic monsters brainwashing music lovers through possibly satanic jams. The two rarely meet harmoniously in the middle, with the latter plot only really taking hold until the last third of the comic, which is in desperate need for a weighty climax. I would have loved some more hints of the antagonists spread out throughout the story, just to make it more even.
I think what the comic does exceptionally well is showcasing the feeling of you're going absolutely nowhere, that there's something keeping you from being on the hinges of success and your relationships start going by the wayside because of it. It's a scary spiral, one that Aksel feels especially prone to. The character dynamics sell this aspect, as we see friendships become strained and loved ones go by the wayside all in the pursuit of a dream that may go unrealized. It's a hefty price, but it's not that always has to be paid.
Speaking of, it almost seems like there are two plots constantly conflicting in the narrative, one about a band that is struggling to find their audience while dealing with issues from their interpersonal relationships, and the other about nefarious cannibalistic monsters brainwashing music lovers through possibly satanic jams. The two rarely meet harmoniously in the middle, with the latter plot only really taking hold until the last third of the comic, which is in desperate need for a weighty climax. I would have loved some more hints of the antagonists spread out throughout the story, just to make it more even.
I think what the comic does exceptionally well is showcasing the feeling of you're going absolutely nowhere, that there's something keeping you from being on the hinges of success and your relationships start going by the wayside because of it. It's a scary spiral, one that Aksel feels especially prone to. The character dynamics sell this aspect, as we see friendships become strained and loved ones go by the wayside all in the pursuit of a dream that may go unrealized. It's a hefty price, but it's not that always has to be paid.