Spex Squad by Up Till 2 A.M. Comic Review

Introduction

By now, you probably know that most of the comics I gravitate toward fall into the indie category. That said, there are still a few mainstream series that hit me right in the feels. One of my all-time favorites—and my collection can back me up on this—is the X-Men. A team of mutant superheroes, each one different, unique in their own way, banding together to protect humanity despite their differences. It’s a concept that has always resonated with me.

When I got my hands on Spex Squad, it felt exactly like that—a fresh, thrilling twist on a team of misfits coming together to save the day.

Story

The story kicks off with a brief intro that sets the stage for the entire Spex Squad world. Picture this: the planet’s in chaos after a catastrophic meteorite collision unleashes armies of the undead—along with other supernatural nasties—onto an unprepared humanity. No one’s there to save the day. That is, until…

The tale starts the way any good horror story should—with a hunt. You know those classic horror movie moments where the victim’s sprinting for their life, while the bad guy strolls along like it’s a sunny Sunday afternoon? Bills paid, dog walked, kids asleep—and yet, somehow, he still catches up and tears them apart. Cliché? Sure. But it works. Every. Single. Time.

What sets Spex Squad apart, though, is that this isn’t a story of mindless zombies shambling around, drooling for brains. There’s mystery and intrigue woven into the chaos. In the first issue, we’re introduced to a crew of supernatural creatures that are anything but brainless. There’s what seems to be a vampire, a lycanthrope, and a downright bizarre chainsaw-wielding, one-legged figure with its brain practically visible because the top of his head is made out of glass (I would wear a helmet 24/7). These aren’t just monsters—they follow tactics, take orders, and operate with purpose.

Meanwhile, the Spex Squad themselves aren’t just some vague idea mentioned on a dusty old tape. They’re real, they’re present, and they’re… well, to put it mildly, capable. No claws sprouting from their hands or laser beams shooting from their eyes (though who knows, that might come later). Instead, they teleport, they electrify, and they’ve got abs for days. These aren’t your average heroes—they’re a force to be reckoned with.

So far, there are three issues of Spex Squad, and let me tell you right now: I’m already hooked and eagerly awaiting issue four. Story-wise, I’d love to see a deeper dive into the Squad themselves—who they are, or maybe who they were before all this madness started. At times, the pacing can feel a little slow, but it’s balanced out by bursts of intense action that keep you flipping the pages.

Overall, Spex Squad is a must-read for fans of the supernatural and horror. It’s got the thrills, the chills, and a team of heroes that feel like they could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the X-Men—albeit with a darker, grittier edge. If you’re into comics that blend mystery, monsters, and a squad you can’t help but root for, this one’s for you.

Artwork

The art in Spex Squad is a gritty, black-and-white feast for the eyes that perfectly captures the horror-supernatural vibe of the series. From the first panel, the heavy inking and dynamic linework pull you into a world that feels raw and chaotic, like something straight out of a classic monster comic with a modern edge. The cross-hatching and stark contrasts between light and shadow create a moody atmosphere that screams post-apocalyptic dread—exactly the kind of setting you’d expect after a meteorite collision unleashes armies of the undead.

The panel layouts are a standout, expertly balancing tension and action. Tight close-ups, like the blonde character’s wide-eyed terror as she’s hunted, slow down the pacing to let the fear sink in, while larger, explosive panels—like a Spex Squad member landing a bone-crunching punch on a snarling werewolf—unleash the chaos. The radiating speed lines and dynamic poses make every hit feel visceral, emphasizing the Squad’s capability without needing flashy powers (yet). It’s a visual rollercoaster that mirrors the story’s blend of suspense and all-out combat.

Character designs are another highlight. The supernatural creatures, from the muscular lycanthrope to the shadowy, hooded figures, are drawn with exaggerated, terrifying features—think jagged teeth, oversized claws, and menacing snarls—that make them feel like real threats. Meanwhile, the Spex Squad members, with their chiseled physiques and determined expressions, look every bit the part of heroes who can hold their own. The detailed rendering of their anatomy (yes, those abs!) and the fluidity of their movements make them pop off the page.

Overall, the art in Spex Squad is a perfect match for its horror-driven narrative. It’s intense, atmospheric, and packed with energy, bringing the monsters and heroes to life in a way that’ll keep you hooked. If you’re a fan of horror comics with a gritty, dynamic style, this is a visual treat you won’t want to miss.

Conclusion

Spex Squad is a thrilling ride that delivers on both story and art, making it a standout in the horror-supernatural genre. The narrative hooks you with its blend of mystery, tactical monsters, and a capable team of heroes who feel like the X-Men’s grittier cousins, while the art brings every tense moment and explosive fight to life with its raw, dynamic style. Though I’d love to see a deeper dive into the Squad’s backstories and maybe a bit more environmental detail in the visuals, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise gripping series. With three issues out and a fourth on the horizon, Spex Squad has already earned a spot on my pull list. If you’re a fan of horror, the supernatural, or just love a good team-up comic with a dark edge, this is one you need to check out—trust me, you won’t be disappointed.