Review: Colours Side A - Innovative Storytelling in Indie Comics
What makes a comic truly unique? Is it the story, the art, or perhaps the way it engages all your senses? COLOURS Side A, a self-published project by Nev Bamshew, challenges the norms of indie comics by offering not just a book but an experience. If you're looking for something a little different and unique, then this is the comic you want.
COLOURS Side A is a dual visual narrative comic that tells two stories concurrently. It is about a blue-haired boy's chance meeting with a cherry-haired girl and their journey through the Colours. It combines hand-drawn, traditional illustrations with prose and metered poetry, creating a rewarding experience when read multiple times. Memories, feelings, and words - do you value one over the others, or are they all the same thing? Are they even real? Do you know if what you know is real?
Starting with the art, it is truly beautiful. It features full-page illustrations that break away from traditional comic panels. The use of vivid colours aligns perfectly with the comic’s title, creating a visually stunning experience. The use of a neon colour palette adds a lot to the emotion and setting, really engaging your eyes to the page - everyone loves bright colours, and when it creates something like this, you can immerse yourself in the story with a little wonder.
The characters are drawn with a Manga-style vibe, which I appreciate, adding a unique and engaging aesthetic to the narrative. This combination of vibrant colours and expressive, full-page art makes COLOURS Side A a feast for the eyes and a standout in the indie comic scene.
As for the story, it combines traditional illustrations with prose and metered poetry to tell two concurrent stories. Although initially separate, their narratives intertwine through visual and literal metaphors, creating a cohesive and emotionally rich experience by the end when they join. It might not be fully resolved, but it is a complete story nonetheless.
The story is set in a run-down but beloved old nightclub called The Crown in Middlesbrough. It explores conflicting emotions and thoughts and the struggle to come to terms with them, often in an unhealthy manner. When combined with stunning art, an incredible colour palette, and a bit of colourful language, the characters' emotions and experiences gain added depth. The use of poetry is beautiful, and there's real talent in telling a story with poetry that makes sense.
COLOURS Side A is a unique and heartfelt project, reflecting Bamshew's dedication and creativity over a decade of work. It’s a must-read for those who appreciate experimental and emotionally charged storytelling. If you want that extra experience, you absolutely need to order the special edition, which includes an additional little book and a soundtrack on cassette. This is pretty awesome, especially if you still have a cassette player. But even if you don't, it's a lovely touch to add for the period of when the comic is set. A reminder that this isn't just a comic but an experience. It's one you need to check out, as I can't recommend it highly enough.
Rating: 5/5
