Right out of the gate I'm gonna tell you that I'm giving this issue a three out of five. Now that doesn't mean that it's mediocre. In fact this is another great issue, just not as great as the previous issues, all of which I rated highly. The main reason this drops a point is because it feels like everything conveniently simmers down to make a good ending for the trade-paperback (which will be available August 19, 2015). The writing is still tight and the group (which is getting large now) all have distinctive voices. Each character also has their own motivation which is conveyed well. I think I was expecting this storyline to continue for quite a few more issues (I know it's not really over but it wraps up the first act). Also the plan seems a little limp (was there even a plan?), the Mutanimals play things fast and loose but it felt like too much relied on luck.

Above all else the artwork shines the brightest (that's a really shitty metaphor for a comic that uses a really dark palette). Andy Kuhn's style adds so much to the enjoyability. It would be very easy in a comic about mutant animals to over-exaggerate features to make the emotion feel stronger. Andy draws them in a way that feels real, if they're screaming in pain or are shocked the mouths and eyes get wide, but not comically wide. Even Pigeon Pete has an air of reality about him.

As a stand alone issue it is just good. When marked against the previous three it is okay. But when this is collected into the trade-paperback it will be really good. This is the beginning chapter of the Mutanimals and when viewed in that light the cliché dinner table scene wrap-up feels right at home. I have enjoyed this first arc and would recommend this to anyone, if you're going to pick up this issue try to at least grab issue three as well though.

Score: 3/5

TMNT: Mutanimals #4 Writer: Paul Allor Artist: Andy Kuhn Colorist: Nick Filardi Publisher: IDW Publishing Price: $3.99 Release Date: 6/3/15 Format: Ongoing, Print/Digital