In Flames is partnering with publisher Z2 Comics to create their very own graphic novel. Available for pre-order right here, right now, In Flames: The Jester’s Curse follows the path blazed by other metal acts that have leant their name and likeness to the comic universe. Past graphic novels from GWAR, Judas Priest, and Pantera have all been met with great praise from fans, and this new work from In Flames is sure to be as badass as those just mentioned.
An overview of the story, provided on the Z2 Comics website, reads as follows: “In Flames, the pioneers of Swedish melodic death metal, channel their storied catalog in a new graphic novel – In Flames: The Jester’s Curse. This dark fantasy opus follows the Jesterhead as he emerges from the Wasteland, where he finds himself trapped in Dead Eternity—a distorted reality where worlds collide and nightmares thrive. Limited editions are SIGNED by In Flames, featuring a Jesterhead action figure and a crystal-clear 7-inch "The Great Deceiver" vinyl with etched B-Side. Vinyl is limited to 500 copies!” [As transcribed by The Pit]
Some really great photos of In Flames: The Jester’s Curse were released along with the announcement, and the design work looks totally sick! We get the sense already this graphic novel is gonna be trip for fans of the beloved Swedish outfit, and comic book-lovers in general. There are several versions from which fans can choose from, including a standard hardcover edition that retails for $39.99 USD.
The book is set to publish in April of 2023. Meanwhile, "The Great Deceiver" is the title track to In Flames forthcoming LP, which is also set for release next year on February 10. The first single "Forgone Pt. 1" was released last month and a video for the track can be watched below, as well.
By the way, this is not the first time In Flames has teamed up for a product collab; In Flames has also teamed up with the Heart Beat Hot Sauce Co. for their brand new Touch Of Red hot sauce. Check that out here (and here in Canada).
"It's a real pleasure to work with Al and Heart Beat Hot Sauce Co.," said In Flames. "Everything they make is world-class and we hope you guys enjoy our special edition flavor. Do enjoy with beer, BBQ, and heavy fucking metal."
"As fans of In Flames since the '90s, when the opportunity to collaborate was proposed there was no questioning it," added Heart Beat Hot Sauce Co. "So many comparisons can be drawn between metal and hot sauce, with the two parties involved here this is a match made in heaven — or hell! This was the perfect opportunity to take our signature Red Habanero sauce and crank the heat up to hit as hard as the band does. In Flames are veterans of the metal world and we couldn't be more proud to put this product together with them. Approach this one with caution!"
