The Tardis lands in Brazil, 1682 where Captain Jack discovers more about his missing memories.
Slayer’s Song brings the Tardis crew to a period in history that is both tribal and exploitative of slavery. There is an impending euphoria of wonder as Tara Mishra reacts to having time travelled. Writer’s Cavan Scott and Adriana Melo use this moment to hilariously dig into Rose’s insecurities when Tara encompasses the Doctor’s full attention.
Flirting with Computers
The dialogue exchanged between her and Jack is consumed with a sly emphasis on Rose not being able to take her eyes off Jack and Rose’s discovery that he flirts with computers is albeit not surprising, but a comedic centre in which the characters get to know each other, something that the show didn’t get to explore in depth.
While Rose and Jack attempt to find out why Jack is a known priest, the Doctor and Tara are greeted by two mermaid/goblin/alien monsters who burst from water in a terrifying display of needle like teeth and ferocious physiques.
Visual Feast
There is a mythological ethos to the creatures as their intent is yet unknown but a fizzling array of rhythmic tunes puts the characters into a trance like state. Artist Adriana Melo’s dynamic texture shifts from swirling liquid to the dark confines of the jungle is a visual feast. The precise character expressions drive the story with charm and the subtle changes show their reactions with slight eyebrow lifts and a sparkle in the eyes.
Captain Jack is given the opportunity to explore what happened during the blank periods of his life which the time agency stole from him. It is a gripping idea that we get to discover alongside the character what those missing memories consisted of.
There is a sense of thrilling expectation because the possibilities are so vast. As ever, the Doctor is fraught with curiosity, disappointment and a mitigating responsibility to question the life forms he has encountered.
This issue is an intelligently crafted story with an abstract idea of an opposing force that is rich in severity of terror and a majestic invention of imagery. There are fabulous character moments with Rose and Jack that are both funny and indulgent. Combine the two, and you have a for another adventure.
Blogtor Rating 9/10
Ninth Doctor #9 is now available in digital and print form.
