REVIEW: EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS #7 (OF 12)

Wepaaaaa, Epitaphs From the Abyss (issue #7) continues to deliver the eerie charm that fans of classic horror anthologies crave. This issue brings us three distinct tales, blending visually stunning artwork with deep, compelling horror narratives that make readers shiver with each turn of the page. With a blend of suspense, terror, and twisted narratives, Epitaphs From the Abyss proves to be a standout in both horror comics and the ongoing revival of the EC Comics legacy.

The anthology format remains a tribute to those classic tales, seamlessly blending modern creativity with the raw intensity of vintage horror. This issue delivers a new installment that will appeal to both die-hard fans of old-school horror and newcomers to the genre. The opening splash page by Dustin Weaver sets the tone perfectly, featuring Grave-Digger—an iconic horror host—atop a giant pink tentacle, with bloodthirsty vampires lurking nearby. It’s a bold, dramatic entrance that promises the dark tales to come.

Let’s get into it:

1) Prohibition: A Tale of Monstrous Vampires

The first story, Prohibition, written by Cullen Bunn and illustrated by Andrew Sorrentino, opens with a down-on-his-luck drunkard. The protagonist is stuck in a cycle of self-destruction, always ending up face-down on the pavement. But one fateful night, he discovers a hidden treasure—three ancient barrels of beer that hold more than just alcohol. What begins as a simple thirst for a drink quickly turns into a deadly encounter with monstrous vampires hidden within the barrels.

Sorrentino’s photorealistic art style, paired with his sharp page layouts, brings this tale to life in vivid detail. His artwork expertly evokes the mood of the story, building tension through each panel. The design of the vampires is unsettling and nightmarish, culminating in an unforgettable conclusion that will leave readers horrified long after they turn the page.

2) A Splice of the Action: Hollywood Revenge at Its Best

Next, we dive into A Splice of the Action by Chris Condon and Valeria Burzo, a tale set in the early days of Hollywood. The story follows Dorthea Babb, a woman whose script was stolen and turned into a film. Seeking revenge, Dorthea goes to extreme lengths to demand the recognition she deserves. The story is straightforward but gripping, and while the final panel may seem over-the-top compared to the rest of the story’s grounded tone, it adds an intense dramatic flair that will leave readers stunned.

Burzo’s art gives the story a polished, cinematic feel that perfectly captures the glitz and glamour of 1930s Hollywood. Yet, the true horror emerges from the themes of betrayal, theft, and the darkness lurking behind the silver screen.

3) Black Gold Cemetery: A Roadside Killer’s Dark Journey

The final story, Black Gold Cemetery, written by Jordan Thomas and illustrated by Andrea Mutti, delves into the mind of a serial killer. Set in a remote area, the killer’s twisted motives are slowly revealed through a series of chilling captions. His killings, driven by a warped sense of justice, take on a supernatural turn that only deepens the horror. As the killer picks off victims in the dead of night, a shocking twist ties his fate to something far darker than anyone could have imagined.

Mutti’s atmospheric art brings the tension to a boiling point, with each page expertly conveying the tension between the killer’s actions and the impending doom. The haunting sequence of killings, illustrated in a twelve-panel montage, is a standout moment that demonstrates Mutti’s skill in creating suspense and dread.

Epitaphs From the Abyss continues to uphold the EC Comics tradition with its diverse mix of horror. Each story, while thematically distinct, contributes to a larger conversation about fear, revenge, and the supernatural. The anthology maintains a delicate balance of visual spectacle and narrative depth, which makes it a standout for both new readers and seasoned horror fans alike.

The stories within this issue showcase how these amazing comic book creators continue to innovate within the horror genre while paying homage to its roots. Whether it’s the horrific creatures of Prohibition, the unsettling revenge of A Splice of the Action, or the chilling descent into madness in Black Gold Cemetery, this anthology is a perfect example of how horror comics can remain timeless, even in an era dominated by digital media.

With stunning visuals and expertly crafted narratives, Epitaphs From the Abyss #7 deserves a spot on any horror enthusiast’s reading list. Its blend of terrifying stories, darkly creative art, and homage to the classic tales of EC Comics make it a must-have for collectors and casual readers alike. From vampires lurking in ancient barrels to serial killers with twisted justifications, this issue is a celebration of the horror genre’s finest traditions, wrapped in a beautifully illustrated anthology. Fans of classic horror comics and those who appreciate a good thrill will find Epitaphs From the Abyss #7 to be a rewarding read that continues to push the boundaries of the genre. Don’t miss out on this fantastic issue; it’s a chilling experience from start to finish.

SCORE:
4/5

(W) Jordan Thomas, Cullen Bunn, Chris Condon
(A) Andrea Sorrentino, Valeria Burzo, Andrea Mutti
(CA) Lee Bermejo
Publisher: Oni Press / EC Comics

Author Profile

Al Mega

I'm Al Mega the CEO of Comic Crusaders, CEO of the Undercover Capes Podcast Network, CEO of Geekery Magazine & Owner of Splintered Press (coming soon). I'm a fan of comics, cartoons and old school video games. Make sure to check out our podcasts/vidcasts and more!