Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast. For this edition, we’re checking out the return of one of the most anticipated returns to the comic shops in recent memory! Barbaric: Axe to Grind #1 by Michael Moreci, Nathan Gooden, Addison Duke & Jim Campbell for VAULT COMICS continues on the adventures of Owen, a cursed barbarian, his merry drinking partner…Axe, and Soren as they bring the action and insanity that only this trio can deliver on. How does this next chapter go? Let’s take a deeper dive into this latest adventure, shall we?
BARBARIC: AXE TO GRIND #1 - On Sale August 17th
Creative: Michael Moreci, Nathan Gooden, Addison Duke & Jim Campbell
Credit: VAULT COMICS
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
This issue kicks off with Owen and company doing what they do best: raising a bit of mayhem as they’re assisting an old friend, Steel with a problem. The problem: A Vampire lord and an army of not just any old vampires, but some that are literal GIANTS! If the lord is taken care of, Steel should be free of his curse of being a vampire. It’s a wild scene to open with but this type of action is nothing new to Owen. The battle sets the tone for the rest of the book and it’s resolution bears one notable surprise. Steel, who had been under the possession of the Vampire Lord has developed a complex where he struggles to fight. However they have no time to deal with that at the moment.
It is revealed to Owen that a familiar face has returned. it is one that strikes an odd reaction out of Owen. The name is Gladius, the orc warlord. Steel makes it known that the three of them have some history, but Owen does not want to entertain conversation about it, he’s rather inclined for a pint. Eventually the truth comes out and it’s a noteworthy reveal. From here, the group embarks on another journey. What lies ahead for Owen, Axe and Soren? What is REALLY Steel’s deal? And what about that last page? Readers will have much to enjoy when this issue drops.
Moreci picks right up with the strong elements of this story. the action, interactions and humor thrown in between the three major players is always an entertaining read. The trio has turned into a very dysfunctional family with how they’ve bonded over the adventures. This issue spends a good amount of time developing Steel and his “performance issues”. Owen’s attempts to understand what’s going on gave a nice counter to his usual brawling bravado. However, readers will be pleased that Axe and Soren maintain their banters that have made the characters such a hit with fans.
Gooden’s artwork continues to impress with this issue.The creatures readers see in this issue stand out and give a huge boost to the fantasy world we’re witnessing. From the vampire giants to the monster readers see later, the art steals scenes away. Take a look when Axe has its’ reactions to the fights they’re in for proof of this. The only thing that outshines those moments are ones with Owen’s reactions dealing with Steel and the return of Gladius. His pained and sometimes, fearful body language speaks loudly at the danger lying ahead. Trying to be undersanding of Steel’s situation is troubling to Owen, but the art makes it work for the overall narrative.
Overall, Barbaric: Axe To Grind #1 lives up to the standard this franchise has set. Action, Humor and Drama all make up the world of Owen, Axe and Soren. Readers get a front row seat thanks to Moreci, Gooden and company thanks to their excellent work. The book remains a must-read for these reasons, Don’t miss out on this issue at your Local Comic Shops this week.
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