Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we are following along one of the latest Scott Snyder stories on the Comixology Originals line! In case anyone has been missing out on the Best Jackett Press imprint, the next wave of books are hitting the digital shop with “By a Thread” and the next chapter in a story based in the 1950’s.
DUCK AND COVER #2 by Snyder, Rafael Albuquerque, Marcelo Maiolo and Bernardo Brice leads readers on an epic journey into sci-fi and mystery. Let’s not wait another second and head into breaking down this chapter!
DUCK AND COVER #2 - SCOTT SNYDER, Rafael Albuquerque, Marcelo Maiolo and Bernardo Brice (CREDIT: Comixology Originals via Best Jackett Press and Stout Club)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING *** LAST ISSUE REVIEW
Del Reeves never thought in his wildest dreams the world around him would change so much. After the fallout at a drive-in theatre fight, Del and others involved with the fight get caught in a bomb blast at “Daytension”. Once they come to, the kids witness first hand how much has changed!
This chapter begins with Pugg Lansky having a flashback to an incident with his father. Lansky is the person responsible for the fight at Del’s Drive-In Movie. Snapping back to the present storyline and Pugg’s head is reattached to a new body. It is a gripping scene that reminds all that not everything will have a happy ending.
Meanwhile the remaining survivors assess what has happened to their world. However, they don’t have time as they’re ambushed but some mutated creatures. Del quickly sees that the radio station is near by. A plan is made and the group braves the harsh environment. The group arrives but not with ease. Luckily, the DJ known as Popscile blares loud music to be a distraction.
Readers quickly learn that more has happened to this world than anyone knows. What secrets are found? What dangers lie ahead. The New World Status dives into the unknown as the closing moments build towards a shocking final page. After witnessing the visual, it will be difficult to patiently wait for the next chapter. There’s many things to like with this story.
Snyder keeps readers guessing with where the story heads now. The group of survivors have an uneasiness to their actions as they process what has happened. Being caught up in a letteral unstable environment pushes their limits. Snyder showcases how they are not ready for what lies ahead. The sense of fear and doubt haunt this group/ That said, a quick easter egg is dropped later in this issue that can only add to more distrust. This builds to the final page where the story bookends perfectly from where it started here.
Albuquerque and Maiolo waste no time blending in various elements to this story. From the opening flashback to the current state of Pugg, the art team leaves no doubt on the beginning of the story. There’s a subtle but excellent panel of how the survivors drive forward through a clear night sky via the coloring of panels. It gives readers a sense of calm before the script ramps up the speed. The latter half of the book may catch some off-guard but it plays into the essence of this thrilling sci-fi tale.
FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10
The sharp writing of Snyder blends with Albuquerque’s creative visuals to give readers an engaging chapter to an already impressive story. The elements of mystery and horror challenge Del and the survivors to new levels. This leads readers to be clamoring for the next chapter whenever its’ hitting the digital shop next.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Duck and Cover #2. Thanks for reading!
