By Larry Jorash — Fresh off the success of his beautiful debut graphic novel, Djeliya, Juni Ba this week presents a new anthology series called Monkey Meat. This first issue is about a meat-packing company that has turned an island into a corporate-shill state that preys upon the inhabitants and creatures that reside there. There is loads of symbolism paired with crazy excellent art in this book., all courtesy of Ba and Ba alone.

The art of Monkey Meat is unique, to say the least. Vibrant and rich colors are painted over scratchy sketches and simple designs, but it works. This controlled-yet-messy array of characters and objects helps set the scene; almost reminiscent of the island’s toxic overgrowth in our story. Subliminally placed adverts and editor’s notes purvey an air of a fourth wall break throughout this comic. The reader is constantly given reminders of how deep the corruption within the world runs, supposedly even to the levels of deities and demons. What’s also interesting is the transition at points from minimalism and spatial awareness in panels, to sometimes wild hoarding of objects among scenes. This erratic structure certainly helps to fit the tone of Monkey Meat #1.

While the story here lacks a main narrative as it sets up more the anthology concept, it’s clear that the thematic aim of the series is to take a playful jab at pure capitalism and greed in corporate America. On page one, we see a news crew being turned away as a mangled, monstrous corpse is deposited and sold to the Monkey Meat Corporation for usage. Immediately after in a backhand comment, we’re told the provider of said meat is also a former native inhabitant to the island who was forced into serfdom upon the conquering of his home. It’s heady and powerful stuff.

Using obvious satire and an in-your-face tone, Juni Ba points directly at the flaws of unchecked financial competition. The usage of Pagan and Christian deities in the story also directly implies a lineage between the Western World and this fictional land of Monkey MeatIsland. Punches are not pulled and the humor is most certainly bold, which is fine because that’s what I prefer anyways.

Overall: The story is rich with symbolism and allegory, and Monkey Meat #1 does not shy away from the grotesque in order to make its points. 8/10

REVIEW: Monkey Meat #1

Monkey Meat #1
Writer/Artist/Letterer: Juni Ba
Publisher: Image Comics
DJELIYA creator JUNI BA introduces a new fantasy universe in this ANTHOLOGY SERIES! The Monkey Meat Company made its fortune selling cans of processed meat all around the world. Using that money to fuel their wacky experiments, they turned their native island into a magical hyper-capitalist hellscape where even demons have to pay rent! Follow the lives of the creatures of Monkey Meat Island in this fun, action-packed romp. Each issue is its own story!
Price: $3.99
Read Juni Ba’s excellent graphic novel: Djeliya

Read more great comic book reviews here!

Larry Jorash (He/Him) resides in Central Florida managing a comic book shop and coaching youth sports. In his spare time he enjoys ice hockey and reading. You will almost never find his hand vacant of coffee. Find him on twitter: (@theREALlarbear)