Review: ‘Bronze Faces’ #1

Credit: BOOM! Studios

Wow, what a debut!

One of the first pages in the book includes the line “To be more than noise, [art] needs to have heart, purpose. You must feel what you want to say.” The line is spoken by one of the main character’s father, as the younger version of the character is idly banging on a drum thinking he’s making music. Yet that line serves a greater purpose of framing this story against the backdrop of today’s culture. So much of what we consume is empty. Food that is nothing but empty calories. “Content” that is bereft of talent & forced-fed to us by social media algorithms. Yet with this book, creators Shobo & Shof introduce a rich, lived-in world full of depth & density. But most importantly, it has something to say.

The story’s core strength lies in its three main characters, Timi, Sango, & Gbonka, who instantly exude an intimate chemistry that’s draws you in. These childhood friends have a long history together and individually represent how people that are part of the same diaspora can come to have different perspectives on what their culture means to them. At times I felt like I was eavesdropping on conversations I had no right to hear. But that’s the part of the art. Given the topic at hand, this book is telling you that you shouldn’t feel comfortable with what’s happening.

Aside from brilliant writing, Alexandre Tefengki on illustrations & Lee Loughridge on color provide sensational visuals. The book has a bit of everything — action sequences, sex scenes, flashbacks — yet they all feel natural with evocative linework & color palettes. It’s exactly what I’d picture a folktale looking like if it came to life.

Do yourself a favor & make sure you grab this book!

Rating: 5/5 stars

Credits
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Writers: Shobo Coker, Shof Coker
Artist: Alexandre Tefenkgi
Colorist: Lee Loughridge
Lettering: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou