(This article originally appeared on the Geeks Unleashed site.  The site is currently on hiatus, and will relaunch with a new look in October.  I have been reprinting some of my articles over here so they can still be read in the downtime.  This comic was provided for review.  At the time I really didn’t like it but in the time since (almost two years later) I’m curious where the story went next.)

 

Recently Geeks Unleashed was given a review copy of the new graphic novel Lone Star Soul.  This tale is a good start from a new creator but the full potential is not yet realized.

First the good things from this book.  The idea for Lone Star Soul is a sci fi western about a man, Leroy Soulo, who wanders a distant planet ultimately heading towards his purpose and the fate that the universe has in store for him.  Leroy’s back story could fill multiple other graphic novels but here its just the first page.  Then he begins his trip across an other worldly plain while we hear his inner most poetic thoughts.

If every copy was paired with an MP3 playlist the book would come alive.  The music could enhance the art which is gorgeous.

 

 

(Seriously, look

Page after page of planets and moons and the unimaginable expanses and beauty of space.  If this was concept art for a movie your advance tickets would already be in hand.  These original pages will go for big bucks as they are gorgeous additions for any wall.

However, despite all of this great art the story falls apart.  I mentioned earlier that I would love a musical score for this comic.  Without one the repetition of texts becomes boring.  But many songs are boring to read as lyrics.  Its only with music and tone and pauses and inflections that the art can come alive.  I believe that what is written could sing.  If only I could hear it.

Also, in the back of the book the writer asks for apologies saying he knows certain things aren’t great and his talents aren’t perfect.  Never ever sell yourself short.  If you say you’re not good, people are going to believe you’re not any good.  Think of it as a first date or a job interview.  Always build yourself up and sell yourself as being better than you are.  Self deprecation does not lead to success.

Aside from the book, check out the Lone Star Soul site at http://www.thelonestarsoul.com/.  With apps, bonus content, upcoming animation and more this is an ambitious project.  The Hustle from the Lone Star Soul crew should be noticed by all creators.  This is how you get your project out there and get attention.

Overall I agree with the end of the book.  Lone Star Soul is not perfect but there is so much potential and drive behind this book comic fans need to pay attention to future volumes because this franchise could be huge.