By Damien Becton
For a while now, Aftershock Comics has been one of my favorite comic book publishers since its’ launch a few years ago. They have been consistent throughout their short journey with the stories that they choose to publish and the art that they decide to commission. The last Aftershock that I picked up was Her Infernal Descent, and two issues in, it’s fair to say that I am having a complete blast with that title. So, when I saw a new #1 title launch, I was eager to dive in and give it a good read, considering Aftershock’s current lineup of titles. I am glad to say that with Clan Killers #1, Aftershock has another solid title that I am on board with.
From the get-go in this inaugural issue, Sean Lewis gives you an idea of what the major players in this book will be like - their personalities and their motivations. Finola and Cillian make it their duty to kill the four clans of Ireland and to take out Goddess Balor. Finola’s motivations for wanting to murder the clans is not out of leftfield, Lewis lays it all out in issue #1, letting the reader know that they’re on this mission for a reason. Additionally, Lewis is able to effectively display the king’s characteristics. He’s a brutal, unforgiving, and merciless leader but the interesting thing that is alluded to is that he wasn’t always this way. This particular plot thread is something that I hope will continue to be elaborated upon in the future issues.
The pencils and colors in this book are also on point. Each panel that Antonio Fuso produces is a pleasure to look at, considering how explicit, brutal, and violent some of the scenes are in the book. The colors are amazing, as well. They are very reminiscent of Frank D’Armata, maintaining an almost permanent feel of sundown, with its’ subtle oranges, reds, and yellows throughout the book. Many The entire book is filled with perfectly executed scenes and panels.
It should be noted that this creative team has done an excellent job establishing this dark and violent world. There’s a moment in the middle of the story when the protagonists describes how dark the world they live in is, stating that the only way to persist through it is to be “darker” than everyone else - which should give you a good idea of how this world works. The world is also different in another way. At first glance, you could think that this our world that the story takes place in, but later in the story, Finola and Cillian confront other players in the story that lets you know that this place is different - really different.
Aftershock Comics has already established itself as a publisher that can hang with the big boys with their storytelling. I think that it is fair to say that they are one of the most consistent publishers, considering the wide variety of stories that they are continuing to produce. With books like Her Infernal Descent, Animosity, and other books on their roster, it’s hard to imagine them going away anytime soon. With Clan Killers, the publishers have another base hit. Issue #1 of the book is definitely worth your time.
SCORE: 4/5
Clan Killers #1
Aftershock Comics