The Archies #3
Writers: Alex Segura & Matthew Rosenberg
Artist: Joe Eisma
Letterer: Jack Morelli
Colorist: Matt Herms
Publisher: Archie Comics
Review by Greg Brothers
At some point in everyone’s life they dream of being famous. Some want to play sports, others to become an artist, and
of course the most popular one usually involves forming a band. However, most people, even if they do form a band, don’t make it past playing the garage.
The Archies #3 picks up with the band getting ready for their next gig, as they appear on local radio. The local DJ asks Betty if she has a song she wrote and wants to sing. Betty says she does, despite Archie’s feelings. As they head out of the studio, they run into CHVRCHES who invite them backstage after their concert.
It has become obvious in the first three issues that Segura and Rosenberg are writing a comic not just about a band trying to hit it big but about friendship also. In each issue there is some sort of problem that the group needs to overcome. It becomes obvious early on that the conflict in The Archies #3 is between Betty and Archie over the use of Betty’s song that she wrote. Seeing as each of these issues is basically a one-shot where they meet other bands as they travel, there is not a lot of depth. Nevertheless, The Archies #3 does provide a feel-good story that can easily be shared. It is a story of friendship, conflict, and in the end supporting each other.
The art in The Archies #3 is typical for an Archie comic. Bright colors in the clothing and the scenery dominate the book. The art of the faces and character designs help to establish the characters’ emotions. The art expands the story in a way that the dialogue could not do on its own. And, the traditional square panels with white gutters give the book a classic feel.
Verdict:
Buy it. So far this has been a fun series to read. Is it going to have earth scattering reveals or move the needle when it come to the comic book medium? No. But, The Archies #3 is an enjoyable read with a good message. It is the type of book that is family friendly and can be shared with children or younger people just getting into comics.
