An Appalachian Mountain fantasy epic that tells the story of Rondel. A lonely figure who wanders the wooded hills among witches and magical creatures as a folktale hero to those who dwell in this gritty dream world.
Hillbilly has a simple charm that's reminiscent of Jeff Smith's Bone. While Bone has a deceptively heavy undercurrent, Hillbilly's dark surface masks a surprising innocence. The dialogue and humor have the authentic ring of folk tale yarns told to children around bonfires. It's a little bit funny. It's a little bit creepy. It's completely entertaining. Read Full Review
This is a glorious way to restart Alabatross Funnybooks - Hillbilly is a table-setter of epic proportions, with art as haunting and touching as the story itself. You can really sense who invested Eric Powell is in his creation, and if the next 11 issues can keep that passion burning hot, then readers are in for a hell of a treat. Read Full Review
Hillbilly #1 is a sensational start to this new series, and if this is a sign of things to come, Albatross Funnybooks is a publisher to look out for. Not only did the creator introduce us to an intriguing new character, but he also gave us an engaging backstory that was exciting to say the least. In other words: buy this book! Read Full Review
Powell writes and illustrates this book, which looks amazing. Powell and his style- from the line work to the color choices and muted hues -always blows me away. There are no books on the shelves that can imitate his style: definitely a mature readers book, Hillbilly #1 felt like the beginning of something epic. I can't wait to see what craziness we see with the second issue. If you are a fan of Powell, or of creepy, horror themed books, then you owe it to yourself to give Hillbilly a shot. Read Full Review
For anyone who enjoys fantasy/mild horror, this issue is for you. The rest of the series is bound to be littered with the supernatural, so I can already tell that this is going to be an amazing title. Rondel and Lucille are just starting their journey, so keep reading to join them! Read Full Review
This isn't for everyone, but it manages to nicely walk the line between humor and the supernatural - and does it without being insulting to actual hillbillies. (Well, the really sensitive ones might flinch a little.) Read Full Review
Overall, Hillbilly #1 marks a continuing evolution of a talented cartoonist. Changes to style and media present an intriguing read, but one that is shackled to a story and themes that have grown stale. Read Full Review
A perfect story with even better art.
Cover - 9.0
Art - 10.0
Story - 8.0
Coloring - 8.0
Lettering - 7.0
Eric Powell has created An Appalachian Folktale that showcases his art and story telling in all it's glory,Powell is a master at work witch Witches and giant beast. Hillbilly gives more in this first issue then some comics do in 6 issues. There is one panel where a grumpy old man is sitting with his huge beast mutant dog and his sword while smoking a pipe is one of the best single panels i have ever seen. Hillbilly redefines the word. Great Job Mr Powell
A great opener for the story that has a small amount of action but mainly focuses on the story. It does a good job of both world building and character introduction.