Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: Joe Keatinge
Artist: Khary Randolph
Release Date: 1st October 2014

In my review of Tech Jacket #1, I mentioned that I’d almost missed the point by initially dismissing this series as formulaic and trite. The second issue improved upon the first, but I had another caveat; It felt like there was a style over substance issue at the book’s core that could lead to a waning of interest over time. Then issue three hit, and I marvelled at the how nuanced the story had become, how writer Joe Keatinge had steadily developed the characters into people worthy of emotional investment. My only concern was that this was as good as it might get. Jeez! How wrong can one man be!? The series continues to surprise and impress on all fronts, and has quickly jumped right to the top of my pull-list.

The issue opens with The Colossal recounting the origins of the Geldarian’s Tech Jacket armour, whilst our hero is subjected to forcible evolution within its thrall. We see how the Geldarians moved beyond the concept of religion, deciding instead to put their faith in science, which poses some interesting questions regarding our relationship with technology, and how for some it is worshipped much like a God. Keatinge is subtly challenging us and entertaining us at the same time, posing wider questions within the narrative to be explored later in the series.

The measured development of the book’s antagonist has also been very cleverly handled up to this point. Mr Crowe fully emerges from the periphery in this issue, and from his conversation with Stanley it would appear that an epic scale space battle is imminent; a prospect made all the more exciting given the book’s artistic talent. Khary Randolph once again provides a masterclass in dynamic storytelling and character design, but it’s his ability to convey emotion through characters expressions that has increasingly impressed. On colouring duties Emilio Lopez’s work is just sensational, matching the high standards set by Dave McCaig in earlier issues, and Russ Wooton’s use of a bold lettering to convey the voice of the Colossal was an inspired choice.

For me, this book encapsulates the essence of what a great comic book should be; accessible, colourful, big, bold, fun, and exciting, but with enough beneath the surface to challenge and emotionally engage its readers. This series has each of these attributes in spades, and long may it continue.

Rating: 5/5.

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The Writer of this piece was: Martin Doyle
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You can check out more of Martins reviews and thoughts on random retro things over at Retromuse

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