EXCELLENCE #4
Nicolas Duncan
Recap
Spencer Dales, a young man from a family of magical protectors comes into his powers late and frustrated, but with perspective that challenges the status quo. His potential is constrained by rules of a society that forces him to be unseen while protecting those who others deem worthy of his protection. As his powers excel, Spencer seeks the approval of his father, live up to the expectations of the family name, and confront the unjust rules of society.
Last issue, Spencer and his lifelong friend, Aaron, were caught defying the elders and the rules set forth. Unfortunately, due to difference of society levels, both punishments were not equivalent. Spencer is dealing with some hard lessons of his reality and the regrets of Aaron’s involvement to save G.G. and throws himself completely into his “assignment” set by Aegis.
Review
Excellence #4 is as real as shit, man! From the first page to the last, intense brotherly hate-to-love you emotions between Spencer and Aaron. Continuing from the last issue, Brandon Thomas explores more depth in character building. As Spencer and Aaron lie in a hospital bed, narration along with absolutely stunning artwork by Khary Randolph and colors by Emilio Lopez, we travel the foggy memories of the massive fight between these two childhood “brother-like” friends. We have seen many great fights between brothers, but this is @#$%ing massive; like we are watching an action scene on the big screen.
They awake in two separate rooms; Aaron with Mr. Dales and Spencer with his mother. Aaron defends himself to Spencer’s father, Mr. Dales with concerns of Spencer’s anger issues. Spencer’s attitude and short temper gets the best of him and mother Dales, puts her son in his place. It is forbidden for females to use magic, but who going to argue with a strong black woman, especially a mother? This part really speaks volumes to the reader with heavy real life lessons. By the end of the Excellence #4, both Spencer and Aaron in two separate rooms, mind you, state the same thing; “I can’t remember”. There is a strong connection between Spencer and Aaron, but emotions of jealousy and anger tare them apart. The difference between the two brothers is that Aaron feels the support being offered and Spencer spits on his mother for wanting the best for her son. Like many adolescent acting young adult, shit, they know everything, right?
Soul burn slow, there is no doubt that Spencer will have some more ass whooping from life in upcoming issues.
Final Thoughts
Excellence #4 is action pact and entertaining between the brotherly hate to love you emotions. There are secrets that Spencer and Aaron are avoiding, but why?!
EXCELLENCE #4: Soul Burn Slow
- Writing - 9/109/10
- Storyline - 9/109/10
- Art - 9/109/10
- Color - 9/109/10
- Cover Art - 7/107/10