Junji Ito’s GYO series, completely spread over two volumes (Vol.1 is chapters 1 to 10, Vol.2 is chapter 11 to 19) recently re-published by Viz, is probably one of the most weirdest manga I’m ever likely to read. An awful stench populates a Japanese island, and it soon becomes apparent that fish and other marine life have evolved with legs!
Volume 1 starts as a slow burn, but really takes off from about chapter 6, as the origin of the bizarre creatures is explained. Volume 2 is most impressive with Junji Ito’s imaginative art, yet the conclusion of the story is very sudden.
Volume 2 also includes a couple short stories, both as cruel and unsettling as everything else Ito’s warped mind creates!
7.5 out of 10.
