A jazz and blues investigation in the heart of New Orleans

In 2010, Juan Díaz Canales and Juanjo Guarnido return with a fourth volume of the "Blacksad" series entitled "L'Enfer, le Silence". This album transports the reader into the world of jazz and blues music of the 1950s, offering a new exciting investigation for John Blacksad. Let's dive together into this captivating volume that mixes mystery, music and emotions.

In "The Silence," John Blacksad travels to New Orleans, drawn by the haunting rhythms of jazz and the bright colors of carnival. He is hired by Faust Lachapelle, an influential music producer, to find Sebastian "Little Hand" Fletcher, a genius pianist and close friend of Blacksad, who has mysteriously disappeared. Sebastian, once at the height of his career, has fallen into drugs and depression, making Blacksad's investigation all the more complex and personal.

This fourth volume stands out for its unique atmosphere and melancholic plot. New Orleans, with its festive atmosphere and lively streets, contrasts sharply with the dark themes of the album: addiction, betrayal and loss. Blacksad, in search of his missing friend, explores the backstage of the music world, uncovering buried secrets and unspoken pain.

Blacksad's investigation is punctuated by encounters with colorful characters, each playing a key role in solving the mystery. From jazz singer Alma Mayer to legendary trumpeter Billy "Bourbon" Bailey, each character enriches the plot and brings their own story and their own wounds.

Juanjo Guarnido, true to his talent, delivers in "L'Enfer, le Silence" illustrations of breathtaking beauty. The plates perfectly capture the essence of New Orleans, with its lively jazz clubs, flamboyant parades and mysterious alleys. The play of light and shadow, as well as the bright colors, contribute to creating an immersive and evocative atmosphere.

The anthropomorphic characters, a trademark of the series, are once again superbly represented. The choice of animals to embody the musicians and protagonists of the story is particularly judicious. For example, Sebastian, represented as a white cat with blue eyes, symbolizes both the purity of his musical talent and the fragility of his mental state.

"Hell, Silence" deals with powerful and moving themes. Addiction, depression and the quest for redemption are at the heart of the plot. Through the character of Sebastian, the authors explore the descent into hell of a once brilliant artist, and the desperate efforts of his loved ones to save him.

John Blacksad's character, as determined and empathetic as ever, is revealed in a more vulnerable and human light. His attachment to Sebastian and his struggle to find him highlight the themes of friendship and loyalty, while offering a reflection on the sacrifices and difficult choices we must sometimes make for those we love.

Upon its release, "Blacksad: Hell, Silence" was praised by critics and readers for its emotional depth and graphic quality. The album received several awards, confirming once again the exceptional talent of Canales and Guarnido. This fourth volume not only enriched the universe of Blacksad, but also showed that the series could address varied themes while maintaining narrative and artistic coherence.

"Blacksad: Hell, Silence" is a masterful work that combines a poignant plot with a vibrant representation of the world of music. This album offers an intense and emotional reading, plunging the reader into a universe where music and sadness are inseparable.