New Masters #1 (Of 6)

Shobo — 2022

2019 Creators for Creators Grant recipients, Nigerian brothers SHOBO and SHOF, present NEW MASTERS, a groundbreaking blend of science fiction, adventure, drama, and vibrant Afrofuturism. In a striking vision of West Africa under the thumb of alien colonizers, a motley crew of outcasts find themselves caught up in a power struggle for control of an ancient artifact with immense power. “I had no idea, when we all picked this book for CfC, that, as good as it looked then, it would turn out this BEAUTIFUL. Amazing work!” —Charlie Adlard, THE WALKING DEAD “Shobo and Shof give us an original, beautifully crafted sci-fi with NEW MASTERS. It’s an incredible debut from a distinctly African perspective. Shof’s rhythmic storytelling, palettes, and world building visuals perfectly seam with Shobo’s intriguing cast of heroes, cut throats, and politicians like only brothers can. Immerse yourself in this new world, you won’t regret it!” —Nick Dragotta, EAST OF WEST2019 Creators for Creators Grant recipients, Nigerian brothers SHOBO and SHOF, present NEW MASTERS, a groundbreaking blend of science fiction, adventure, drama, and vibrant Afrofuturism. In a striking vision of West Africa under the thumb of alien colonizers, a motley crew of outcasts find themselves caught up in a power struggle for control of an ancient artifact with immense power. “I had no idea, when we all picked this book for CfC, that, as good as it looked then, it would turn out this BEAUTIFUL. Amazing work!” —Charlie Adlard, THE WALKING DEAD “Shobo and Shof give us an original, beautifully crafted sci-fi with NEW MASTERS. It’s an incredible debut from a distinctly African perspective. Shof’s rhythmic storytelling, palettes, and world building visuals perfectly seam with Shobo’s intriguing cast of heroes, cut throats, and politicians like only brothers can. Immerse yourself in this new world, you won’t regret it!” —Nick Dragotta, EAST OF WEST

Reviews

Momo@novelallure

Feb 16, 2022

78%(B+) | 4/5 | A promising start to what could be an absolutely amazing series. I came across this comic book an hour ago and was interested in the title and beautiful cover. I was admittedly dubious during the first pages wondering what it could all mean and lead to but after carrying on, I was launched into this amazing universe of Afro-Futurism. As the Jovian fleet made their appearance on earth with new and interesting Alien Races, debris and detritus spread leading to the downfall of New York, London, Paris and Berlin. I imagine other major global powerhouses had the same issue but this is yet to be mentioned and I hope it will as the lore of this reality looks as interesting as it is promising. This destruction lead to the oxymoronic rise of countries places such as Lagos, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Morocco and probably many others similar and in contrast too the above. The story has a steady pace beginning with the girl on the cover, Ola and her adventure into places she shouldn't be as she explores. When she has finished we're graced with seeing more of this vibrant universe as we pass through towns, cities, ports and harbours. We're introduced to governments, locals and their intentions, with an exciting finish which left us waiting for the next issue. The art and colouring is gorgeous which makes it even more enjoyable. Whilst New Masters is certainly it's own thing, I can't help but think how it reminds me of District 9 and Wakanda in a more sophisticated and complex manner. I'll be keeping an eye out for this series.