Static-X

    (Chaos, 2002)
™ and © Brian Pulido

No, it’s not Marvel’s X-Statix; it’s Chaos Comics’ Static-X. Named for the band, the story is set in a future world akin to 1984 by way of The Terminator after a detour through Terry Gilliam’s Brazil. It’s surprisingly fresh for a story with so many familiar elements.

The story presupposes no knowledge about the real–life musicians upon whom the comic book is based. There is, however, an enhanced CD that comes bagged with the issue, including a musical track and a 10-minute documentary (with music video). The buyer may consider it a gamble; should he pay a little extra for the package when he may not care for the band’s style of music? (People might be more inclined to buy a new comic book sight unseen than a new CD sound unheard.) Have no fear, the paltry sum the CD adds to the price makes it worth the risk. More music comics should try the CD approach.

There is a text feature about the band, but it’s printed on increasing shades of gray, rendering it 40% illegible. Function should supercede funky, Chaos.

— Jack Abramowitz
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