Written by Miguel Manzano

Pencils, inks, and colors by Vincent Marone

This is such an absolutely interesting story, not just within the pages of the comic, but in the conception of the project itself. But first, let’s talk a little about the plot.

The order of the Blackened Souls and the Knights of the Light – each faction possesses a volume of the mythical Goth Hymn, a powerful source of mystical power that’s most pure when both volumes are united together.

Issue #0 opens with the main protagonist hearing a tune that leads him down a long journey toward power. He is tasked with finding both volumes by his master, all in hopes of escaping his miserable existence.

The first issue is a prequel, using characters Vincent Marone created 15 years ago in a concept album. It introduces you to a small part of a much bigger picture.

The art is gruesome but serves a purpose. It almost feels like you’re reading a metal album as you read the issue – it has that sort of epic feeling.

But here’s what’s extra cool – I got to listen to the EP of music issue #0 is based on. That’s such an interesting concept to me – combining music and comics together like this. It really breathes an extra life into what you’re reading and elevates the experience to something so unique.

On Halloween, a CD is releasing with said music – which is so good, by the way. It has a nifty little booklet full of cool things.

I spent days thinking over this one. Which is pretty rare for me with single issue reviews. I took notes reading and listening to the music, then wrote the review the following day, then waited a few more days in case anything else sprung to mind. I hope you guys check it out and let me know what you think!

You can preorder Ohmerta #0 on VincentMarone.com, follow Vincent on Twitter and Instagram at vincent_marone, or on Facebook at thevincentmarone. If you want to follow Ohmerta, check out therealohmerta on Instagram!

-Angel