Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Writer: Victor Gischler
Artist: Will Conrad
Release Date: 2nd April 2014

Angel, the hunky vampire with a soul, is back working with Faith, the sexy vampire slayer, in the first part of this new season. After last season, an area of London has been transformed into Magic Town. Pixies, centaurs and a myriad of other mythical beasts roam the smoggy streets. It’s a good setting for the pair. It’s just a shame that there are a few loose ends that need tying up which stops this first issue from really getting started.

Faith is seemingly off on a quest to set up the new season of Buffy which will run parallel to this series. As a result, we are treated to a wasteful subplot which must exist solely for closure to fans desperate to see the new baby-faced Giles reunited with Buffy’s Scooby band. Such a story could hold an issue in its own right. Here though, it sadly feels rushed. It’s terribly awkward seeing some of the franchise’s best characters without hearing them say a single word. This piece of story would’ve been much better placed in the Buffy season instead of here.

The art is solid and captures the already cherished characters nicely. There is some good facial expression which is vital; it ensures the lines are delivered effectively. This bodes well for the series’ already successful brand of humour in future issues. The wide assortment of demons and creatures also look good.

The Angel plot is better. London suits this vampire and, looking forward, Magic Town has a lot of potential for a variety of decent encounters. It’s a shame the ‘other’ series has leaned on it a little but I’m sure it won’t be too long until this finds its stride.

Rating: 3/5.

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The writer of this piece was: James McQueen
You can also find James on Twitter.