I dropped in at the library yesterday and after renewing my membership, I went to see if there were any new arrivals at the comic book section. Right next to the section, there were a bunch of expectant mothers with their firstborns at their side, loudly making plans for a play date. A nice scene for a comic book, eh?! Any case, I came across this graphic novel by Gipi called ‘Garage Band’. I was immediately transported to the world of these 4 teenagers in small town Italy with their quirks and their common love for music. Each character was beautifully fleshed out and unusually revealing. This without stepping out of context of the central theme of the book. Garage Band, without going into details brings up a lot of issues like the state of the music industry, economic philosophy, health, taste, obsessions, love, lost dreams, relationships and friendship. These things form the sub-textual landscape of this book. Just like real life where all these things are a part of every day existence but are rarely ever put into words. Curiously, the dad’s of the 4 main characters also have their respective obsessions. Like model planes, underwater fishing, sculpting and dogs. while the women in the book are warm and indulgent. the art is distinctive and evocative. A must read. Published by First Second Books