Capital P #3 Review - The Patroller Returns in Another Solid Indie Comic

How about a third instalment of the rose-tinted monocled bionic sporting, canine-nurturing hero with an unwavering, comic-book-instilled moralistic code with foundationally strong, commercially appealing art? It's time to patrol the streets again with Capital P #3 from Sam Gardner Jr and Ulises Carpintero.

Sam Gardner Jr is the founder of indie publishing label Capeverse Comics and a comic book writer and innovator. He has previously published works in the Comichaus anthology, Starburst Magazine, Pilgrim Strips and Tamar Brigade Anthologies. Sam also has had comics archived in the V & A Museum of Art & Design. This is the third of a total of twelve planned in the Capital P series.

Ulises Carpintero is an Argentinian illustrator, comic book artist and graphic designer with over 20 years of experience. Ulises's previous works include Forgive Me Father, Black Heart Irregulars, The Return Of Super Pimps, Paparazzi, Haunting Refrain, Xarkar- And The Caravan of Wealth and Ascension Chronicles, along with a plethora of one shot works. Credentials of creative, creatives credited it's review time.

So, let's start with the art. Ulises Carpintero continues his trend from the previous issue of foundationally strong, commercially appealing, polished presentation of clipped comic art. I feel like the strength continues to lie in the character work of human and canine alike. There's a smattering of clever panel work, with the patchwork face and the superimposed moments standing out. The colour work again is precise and well delivered with a particular affinity for the light and shadow work.

There are strong moments of art in this comic but overall there is a slightly sterile feeling to a lot of it. A lack of personality and style which stands out due to the solid character work. I can feel oftenof looking at a copy, for me. Maybe the continued muted colour work could have done with being lifted even if only for a moment to add a brighter spark.

Overall it's another good solid presentation showing good character work and well rounded colour work.

Sam Gardner Jr continues the journey through a grounded in realism universe. What other comic could start by addressing the practicalities of dog care in a hot environment and end opening up commentary on the completely messed up Capitalism servicing American judiciary system. Before getting there, there's more moralistic musings on the folly of comic book rules vigilantism and where the lines should be drawn.

Practicality seems to be a big theme of the series as a whole. With this issue in particular, the meat of the story here concerns the practical detective work. The Patroller puts the pooches to work as he continues to get close to The Enforcer. The Patrollers' burning big question and request play on his mind. Sam does such a good job with this one, wading through these practical moments and throwing enough new character appearances and further character building and justifications for The Enforcer to keep it entertaining.

This balance builds really nicely to the bigger commentary ending reveal that spins this one open to an exciting fourth issue. A slow burn chapter that continues to build an interesting story. Plus an ending that should set up some action and bigger musings.

For fans of superhero-inspired vigilantes, practicality, dogs, punctuality, a clever way to disguise a tracking device provided you have dogs who love treats as a cover, non-functioning red eyes, methodical detective work, desert escapes and Jimmy Biscuits in strong art with a moody palette, ponder the morals with Capital P #3.

To get your copy of Capital P #3, head to the official Capeverse Comics website. Here you'll find digital and print copies of all the issues along with all things Capital P.

Review: 4.5/5