Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Art: Jamie McKelvie, Matthew Wilson, Clayton Cowles
Release Date: 18th November, 2015

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Where to begin? This issue is just beyond fantastic. They really are not kidding around with this book. I am sure a few of you reading this are already, like myself, huge fans of this team’s work. I don’t know where this stands in comparison – I hate comparisons! – but my word, I find myself elevating each issue that’s released as my new favourite.

This month it’s about Lloyd and Laura. A little sidestep away from the main story. Their initial interaction is utterly brilliant. There is always an overblown subtlety to Phonogram and this is no different. This is easily my favourite issue of the series. The art and colours (or lack thereof!) being a cross between a Charles Burns and Scott Pilgrim vibe. It’s beautiful and helps highlight the main ethos in the story – namely, small town misery.

The panel structure is key to this and it’s just an absolute pleasure to read. It really is effortless. Without delving into spoilers, the story is utterly entrancing and the dialogue is sharper than a diamond cutter. The inevitable “spot the reference” game is in full flow this issue, with my favourite here being an oh-so-subtle Pixies reference.

Lloyd and Laura are two Phonomancers that are not really high up in the coven rankings. In a nutshell, they are asked to play records at a night. There, that’s all the plot summary you are getting from me. It might be crap but trust me, you need to read this book.

If you are reading this because you’re bored or it’s late at night or you are on the toilet and you are unfamiliar with Phonogram, change that. The biggest thing about it, no matter who I talk to, is that everyone picks up on something different about it. It effects everyone differently. That’s not an accident, especially with the music references.

Quick note about the B-Sides in Phonogram. This run they have been of a particularly high standard and this issue is no different. ‘I Hate Myself’ is especially a joy to read.

So there it is. Easily the best book released this week. Read it, love it then read it again.

“I Don’t Want To Sound Trite, But You Were Perfect” – Indeed!

Rating: 5/5.

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The writer of this piece was: Ed Nygma
Ed Tweets from @armelrose

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