American Vampire 1976 #1
Ethan Coney
Recap
The setting is of a '70s America that is crippled with paranoia as trust between the public and their own government is crumbling a new force comes into play with the Gray Trader and its legion as they try to unleash hell on earth. Skinner Sweet has exhausted all attempts to regain his immortality and no longer has a purpose seeks to go out with a bang until Pearl Jones and a shocking partner seeks him down for one last desperate mission!
Review
Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque are back to the delight of American Vampire fans to conclude the critically acclaimed series that launched them into stardom!
It’s an easy argument to have when claiming Snyder is not only one of today’s best but will be remembered as one of the all-time greats not only for his work with DC, but with the immense drawing power he achieves with his original concepts. American Vampire is one of those titles that fans begged for more and now with this conclusion they’re getting their wish and after reading this issue I’m happy to say – get excited!
Straight from the get-go you can tell Scott and Rafael are immediately setting up that “one last ride” theme. Firstly, with how Scott dives into Skinner Sweets current doomed mind-set with mesmerizing text narratives revealing multiple scenarios in which he envisions intentionally failing moments that could lead to his death. Secondly, with the world-threatening villain and his legion this arc introduces seeking to unleash hell on Earth and the mention of the Council of the Firsts setting an anticipated stage for this conclusion.
Scott Snyder is incredible at writing the horror genre and Rafael Albuquerque equals that level of master class with artwork that captures the dark depiction of 1976 America perfectly whilst boasting impressive scenes of violence, one in particular I loved involved a solar lamp modified disco ball – need I say more?
Gear up as this first issue is a great sign of what’s to come within this final chapter, returning fans will no doubt love that shocking return character reveal!
Final Thoughts
I already mentioned that returning fans will love this new chapter and as a lover of the horror genre I would recommend this book to new readers to the series, Scott and Rafael are genius creators, this one will be special!
American Vampire 1976 #1: One Last Ride
- Writing - 9.5/109.5/10
- Storyline - 9/109/10
- Art - 9.5/109.5/10
- Color - 9/109/10
- Cover Art - 9/109/10
