issue 1// vol 47 arts // no. 9 Detectives and dystopian societies » First comic book issue of ‘Blade Runner 2019’ is a story that’s good enough so far despite its flaws Jonathan Pabico Contributor kek YY Fz of Denis Villeneuve’s Blade Runner 2049 will probably know Michael Green for writing the film’s screenplay that was nominated for and won many awards. Now, Green teams up with fellow writer Mike Johnson and artist Andres Guinaldo for the 12-issue comic book spin-off Blade Runner 2019. The first installment of this collection provides a refreshing take for followers of dystopian fiction with its new lead and simple premise. The story follows LAPD detective Ash as she begins her journey to solve a missing persons case. What really makes this comic an easy read is that it’s completely accessible for everyone. Readers don't need to be familiar with the Blade Runner films to remain engaged with the story. The graphic novel sets up the stakes with straightforward storytelling to satisfy hardcore fans of the movies and more casual sci-fi enthusiasts. The first issue portrays Ash as a stoic Blade Runner often appearing alone in close-ups or positioned on one side of her panels to evoke how lonely the life of a detective can really be. This simple approach—combined with her pessimistic narrations, murky locations, and subdued colour palette—convey Ash’s moral apathy with her city’s rapid descent into crime. We also see a different side to Ash as she shows slight hints of sympathy towards her case that’s emotionally antithetical to her more violent run- ins with criminals. This plot choice humanizes Ash and emphasizes how important it is to be understanding towards people's circumstances. As a result, she starts becoming more self- aware of who she can be for others beyond just being a ruthless agent. The comic also comprises mostly of small or narrow panels mixed with very few large sections that make the simple dialogue transfixing enough for good pacing and tone. This aesthetic allows Ash’s perspective to be foregrounded rather than rely on enormous imagery to carry her story. However, character dynamics are not that strong, since the plot abruptly shifts from one encounter to the other. The first issue could have explored a little bit of Ash’s past to set her arc better—even though readers will most likely learn more about that history in subsequent issues. The comic instead creates an imbalance between the beginning of her investigation with a subplot. Thematically, Blade Runner devotees won't find significant surprises with the series so far. The comic barely breaks any ground with the philosophical subjects of the films about existentialism, consumerism, and artificial intelligence. Overall though, the first issue of Blade Runner 2019 is a decent start to what will most likely be a compelling collection. Despite some storytelling problems, the comic will satisfy readers seeking to be immersed once again ina bleak future first envisioned by Ridley Scott's 1982 movie. The series is scheduled to finish by November 2020. Issues may be found on Hoopla Digital, a free public library streaming service. Still of ‘Blade Runner' Saxophone music for troubling times » Nubya Garcia’s ‘Source’ is the reason why we need jazz in our world Jonathan Pabico Contributor kek KK ubya Garcia made milestones as a British saxophonist whose roots extend from her musical family to the jazz legends she looked up to in her early life. Since then, Garcia’s new jazz album Source isa remarkable collection of songs that brings comfort to anyone willing to listen. The playlist deals with resonating subjects, while immersing people in its thrilling tracks. Garcia’s flawless mastery over the saxophone lends the album an unrivalled charisma and enveloping soundscapes. Every note she plays bursts with a lively energy that any music intellectual can enjoy at their local club. Some of the tracks provide rollicking moods that would be fitting for the lavish parties from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. The song “Before Us: In Demerara & Caura’—a personal favorite from the album—features an astounding saxophone and trumpet combo that engulfs the listener with its sophisticated vitality. The piece becomes a jazz playground with its frenetic beats that are layered with the stylish intro from the piano and drum set. Another refreshing aspect is that the collection is not afraid of being experimental to please their listeners. The track “La cumbia me esta Ilamando” mixes the saxophone’s swing tempo with the vocals, maracas, and conga drums that convey the passionate wonders of Spanish culture. The album provides ethnically diverse music to evoke how important it is to always welcome new voices and perspectives. The album provides ethnically diverse music to evoke how important it is to always welcome new voices and perspectives. Beyond her enriching style choices, Garcia has used the album to promote good mental health by inspiring people to reach out and support others. The track “Boundless Beings” arguably encapsulates this relatable theme the most. It uses beautiful and simple vocals accompanied by quiet piano keystrokes to elevate lyrics like “We're timeless creatures, you and me.” These elements provide a thoughtful subtext about positive thinking, while creating a fantastical motif that makes the song ideal for a concert hall in a jazz utopia. “Boundless Beings” also blends its calm tones with highly controlled saxophone sounds and hi-hat cymbal hits to illustrate the immense depths of human well-being. They provide the listener with an emotional balance that quickly becomes a pleasing remedy for their stress, troubles, and anxieties. As for flaws, the album could have given the other instruments from the ensemble more time for solos and allow the saxophone to provide undertones for some of the tracks. There is no doubt that Garcia offers the best music to ever be heard ina modern-day jazz collection. However, the album could have made the piano, drum set, and other parts of the band be the main instrument for some tracks rather than the saxophone during most of the playlist. Nubya Garcia’s Source is a commanding jazz album worth listening to for the start of autumn. The tracks immediately settle you in as you're transported to her own personal world that makes you look forward to her future work. Relaxing yet fearless, the collection emphasizes the need to always find hope and resilience during difficult times.