In the heart of the Great Depression, photojournalist Sarah and her two young charges are engulfed in a massive dust storm that threatens all of the residents of New Hope, leaving behind death and destruction. Dust to Dust #2 delivers another bleak issue that engulfs you within a dust storm and the danger lurking within.

Written by JG Jones and Phil Bram, Dust to Dust #2 continues an intense series that’s a slow burn like a good thriller. The period piece uses its Dust Bowl setting to its full extent not only delivering an issue full of threat and uncertainty but also a backdrop for destruction and death beyond nature.

At its heart, Dust to Dust #2 is a murder mystery slowly being revealed. There’s the story of a young girl who has gone missing and now some teeth found by an oil well. Mixed in is a photojournalist who’s job it is to raise awareness of what’s happening to the residents of New Hope, But Sarah delivers far more than photos, she’s our introduction to the people of the town painting a solemn picture of the residents and era. She helps create the setting and delivers the details far more than just images could. Through Sarah, we get a better idea of the sadness and desperation that seems to permeate the town of New Hope, all the while a rather ominous glad gathers beyond the dust rising to engulf its citizens.

The comic is near pitch perfect for the mood it presents which is thanks to Jones’ art and the lettering of Jackie Marzan. The comic’s colors and the general fear and small details of the dust create a tone that makes the comic feel like it’s a Sisyphean task of an existence. But, what’s interesting is that Jones’ art makes things rather bleak but at the same time it doesn’t cross into depressing and sad. Instead, there’s a rather hardy aspect to the people who endure against difficult odds.

Dust to Dust #2 is another fantastic issue. The art and story combine for a hell of a mood and setting delivering a familiar story in a way that feels fresh. The fact it can present such a harsh existence without the comic feeling like a chore itself is impressive. It’s a mix of great art and great storytelling.

Story: JG Jones, Phil Bram Art: JG Jones Letterer: Jackie Marzan
Story: 8.45 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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