Emily and the Strangers Volume 2: Breaking the Record

Emily—and her new band, the Strangers—won the battle of the bands and received a record contract with Awesomely Awesome Records, but can the girl who just figured out how to get along with her friends manage dealing with a major corporation? And what’s the deal with the legions of stray cats around town?

Even having never read any of the title before, I was quite anxious to read it for two reasons.  One, it just looked and sounded like a fun title.  And two, Geek-o-Rama's very own Katrina was super excited for me to read it.  So, with her stamp of approval, how could Emily and the Strangers Volume 2: Breaking the Record not have me super anxious?

One great thing about this book is that if you're like me going into this volume not having read the first, they kindly give you a summary of events leading up to it.  Emily and awesome band the Strangers are just coming off success after winning a battle of the bands.  The next natural step of course is to sign a label right?  Not if she has anything to say about it, as the seedy Awesomely Awesome Records looks to be up to no good.  This turns out to be very true, and they get the assistance of some interesting new friends to help out.

This was not only a rocking book for the story, but for the art as well (I couldn't help myself, puns are fun).  It's almost cartoony, but not quite, still having an edgy feel to the artwork.  Having never seen them before, I particularly enjoyed all the different character designs.  All around this title has some really nice work with lines and colors throughout each issue.

It has been a long time since I read any kind of story like this and it was a most welcome departure from the norm.  As much as I enjoyed this as a new reader to Emily, I would have to think current fans will enjoy it.  No matter if you're new or old though, you'll have a great time with these rockers and their unusual adventure.

For more on Emily and the Strangers or other Dark Horse titles, check out Dark Horse Comics.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.