By Justin McCarty

If you’re not on Head Lopper then you just don’t want to be part of the cool crowd. At this point, we’ve settled comfortably into what Mclean is doing here. Its light plot is driven with a lot of heart and humor. We know these characters. We want to see them grow and struggle. It’s such a clearly realized vision that this series has plenty of room to grow and go on for years. Once done, it will be a great example of how to do a fantasy comic.

This issue has Norgal and the gang seeking the next crystal eye. There are the obstacles, and Agatha is providing the color as usual. Zhaania and Twerpal find a new door and a mysterious spirit sent to confuse them. Norgal and Agatha go into battle, while Zhaania and Twerpal must overcome their guilt.

Mclean’s line work and Bellaire’s colors work in tandem, with the lettering and design giving the entire book a unique feel. Head Lopper doesn’t look like any other book I read. You can find its influences but it is still its own book. If no one has talked about the lettering and design work on Head Lopper, I’ll be happy to do it here. Of all the book’s components, those two things do the most, in my opinion, to give this comic its unique feel. The lettering adds so much to the humor of the characters, and the little story beats hit with plops, drops, and bonks. The design does so much to give this comic its Viking vibe.

There is so much more that can be said about this book but I’d be gushing. Also, I’d just be repeating praise the book has gotten elsewhere. I would hate to be repetitive. Head Lopper is an adventure comic for the ages. It's a fun adventure comic with heart and humor. At seven issues in, if you are not into the comic and want to be, it's ok. It comes out quarterly so there is plenty of time between issues to catch up and get on board. You won’t be disappointed. It’s an award winner, do you need more reason than that?

Score: 5/5

Head Lopper #7
Image Comics