Mr. Swiz
Finally, another issue of Montreal’s definitive comics anthology. For awhile it looked like Foetus might take over from Swiz in that regard, but the former doesn’t measure up to this, especially where layout and content is concerned. As usual, it seems like everyone’s here: Valium, Braun, Suicide, Guim etc. etc. etc. Expatriate Montrealers Marc Bell and Fidèle Castrée each add some fine strips to the mix, while newcomers (to me, anyway) J.L. Bakvis and David Leclerc prove very entertaining. Highlights: Valium’s as_usual incredible centerfold, a Valium story illustrated by Swiz and d. bilos, and Guy Boutin’s ‘Pourquoi’ strips. Disappointments: Rupert Bottenberg and Billy Mavreas’ strips were unfortunately very old reprints, Trembles’ ‘strip’ looks like a quick knockoff, and the photocopying in spots is of a shit quality. Also, the lack of contact addresses for any of the artists is inexcusable. Still, anyone else at all interested in comics in Canada should pick this baby up.(LR)
comic anthology, #5, bilingual/ silent, 60 pgs, $4, c/o Fichtre!