Mind MGMT #7

If you haven't been reading Matt Kindt's wildly original headtrip of a secret agent comic, now is the time to buy the ticket and take the ride. A brand new arc begins with this issue and for those who aren't up to date, there is a thorough, easy to follow summary of previous events worked into the first page. From there we jump back into the rabbit hole with Meru, as she once again starts over trying to piece together the jigsaw puzzle of memories and clues she has to her past.

The journey may begin in a familiar way, but there's no time to even begin worrying about Kindt retreading thus ground as events diverge rather quickly. I don't want to give any of the plot away, but this issue gives us more backstory on the Ad Man (or is it Ad Men?) of the Mind Management agency. Henry Lyme is back as well. The main difference I noticed from the previous arc, besides the story itself, is the pacing. The introductory arc unveiled portions of its mysterious tale at a somewhat leisurely pace, which worked well as a way to ease into the at times confusing and complex world of Mind MGMT. Now that we have our feet in the door, Kindt seems to feel free to turn up the throttle. The result is my favorite issue so far. In what is becoming his characteristic style, Matt tantalizes us with a lot of information while still telling us so little. He is an expert at revealing just enough of the puzzle to ensure we keep wanting to see it all put together.

An integral part of what elevates Mind MGMT from being merely great to instant classic status is the insane amount of detail and work Matt Kindt puts into producing it. Not only does he write and draw the entire thing (including cover art, inks, colors, everything), but he also includes a fascinating back up story in each issue, loads the script with hidden meanings and references (most obviously the flight 815 reference to LOST), and includes extra bits of story at both the bottom and sides of the pages (which miraculously doesn't clutter the page, either). Oh, and he also produces a great letters column, if all the rest wasn't enough. Getting back to the art, though - it is a truly singular style that perfectly suits the story. The watercolors are simultaneously almost sloppy, but also clear and at times even cinematic in scope and full of details that merit several reads to catch everything. 

Listen, I could go on and on about the brilliance that is Mind MGMT, but I'd rather spend that time going back and reading it again. This issue is the perfect time to get on board one of the most intriguing and unique stories in comics right now. Do yourself a favor and pick this up while you still can.