Brilliant, brilliant, BRILLIANT! Besides Arnold Arre's "Mythology Class" and "Andong Agimat", I have never encountered such a wonderful fusion of modern day sensibilities with old-school Pinoy Folklore. And there's an earthiness, grittiness, with just a touch of darkness that's just delicious and engaging to read.

"Trese" is actually four stories in one compilation. All the stories revolve around Alexandra Trese, an investigator/avenging angel type who tackles cases beyond the realm of the normal. Think of it as a curious mix of Batman/X-Files/Dr Strange (for lack of a better point of reference). Along with her two bodyguards (who look like stories in themselves), she tackles crimes with a mystical nature.

Could Alexandra Trese be the modern day Pinay heroine, the one to take over the mantle of Darna? Only time will tell. But if this comic is any indication, it's a resounding YES.

Bulletpoints:
- Why do we have a fascination for black clothes?
- Cute reference to Batch 72 (If you don't know what Batch 72 is, sorry)
- Tikbalangs racing against cars... wow.
- Darna's bro taking over... WOW.
- Black and white never looked so luscious