What does the perfect song sound like? Normally, Malcolm Kid wouldn’t give this type of question the time of day. As a straight-B student with a heart of copper, he is far more concerned with overcoming mediocrity than he is with achieving perfection. But that all changes when he stumbles across the LK-2000—a strange keyboard cursed with the soul of an old jazz musician.

Malcolm soon learns that the only way to free this musician’s soul is by performing the perfect song. With much hesitation, and the help of a lifelong friend, Malcolm embarks on a musical journey across the city of New Bronzeville in hopes of discovering the perfect song and finding himself as a musician along the way.

From start to finish, this book is full of energy and enthusiasm. There is no dull moment; it’s all action, catchy phrases and sarcasm, which make it a good graphic novel. Huge credit to the author and creative team for bringing together a fun and vigorous story.

The plot involves a typical teenager going thru adventures with a sidekick and a mission to fulfill. But the way it is narrated, especially for a graphic novel, is very uncustomary. Other graphic novelists could learn a thing or two in terms of the story’s style and flow. And I love the graphics! Very expressive; attention to detail is excellent. It is a perfect combination of weirdness and beauty. I love the artist’s courage to explore uncanny techniques.

The only downside was the ending. I know I’ve been all praises on its plot, but I expected something more impactful here, a better finale. Something seems lacking, and the music theme tapers out even though it’s supposed to be all about music.

But overall, I enjoyed it and am pretty sure everyone will fall in love with the characters and message the book aims to convey.

–  Kevin Velayo