Step into the minds of Philo and Atlas with these two epic playlists from Revel Guts
The hit queer fantasy webcomic, Sparks, is coming to Dark Horse in Sparks Volume 1: Portals. Now, fans can get a glimpse of the magic behind the graphic novel with two specially designed playlists. Each playlist reflects Philo and Atlas’s characters and features introductions and blurbs by Revel.
Philo has always been the worst student in his class at the academy, with powerful magic he can barely control. His lack of ambition and discipline is about to catch up with him as graduation day looms. When he’s paired to train together with the aloof star student Atlas, Philo’s magic backfires, teleporting them both far from home. Now, their futures depend on them working together to make it back to their school in time.
In just a few short days the pair find common ground that their years of classes together never managed to build, and at some points Philo questions if he didn’t have the wrong idea of Atlas the whole time—wondering if their struggles to get home might plant the seeds for something bigger. Meanwhile, powers outside the academy are setting plans in motion that may change both of their lives.
Spark up these epic tunes as you read through Sparks Volume 1: Portals, coming out in bookstores July 16 and comic shops July 17. The playlists for Philo and Atlas can be found on the Dark Horse Spotify Channel, and more below!
Meet the Satyrs (Intros and Descriptions by Revel Guts)
Philo
Philo’s playlist is generally upbeat and energetic, like him! There’s a balance of songs that I think describe his struggle to move through life as easily as those around him, and songs that make me think of his feelings toward Atlas- both developing a crush on him as well as feeling frustrated by him.
1. Up In The Clouds- Skegss
If Philo had a theme song, it would be this! It perfectly describes how he lives feeling like he’s missing information that everyone else seems to have, and his (mostly) carefree attitude.
2. Control- Nill, DijahSB
The chorus of this song especially makes me think of Philo and his struggle to stay focused and control his emotions/magic.
3. The Difference- Flume, Toro y Moi
Philo’s difficulty keeping a grasp on his life and feeling like it’s out of his control.
4. Come and Be Alone With Me- Jungle Giants
This song sounds like Philo trying to convince Atlas to hang out with him, in my opinion.
5. Fuck Things Up- Dope Lemon
Philo when he’s feeling down about himself.
6. Nearer My God- Foxing
This one is for Philo’s desire to feel wanted or needed by anyone. Is that too sad?
7. Miscommunication- Concrete Surfers
This one is for his frustration with Atlas and their terrible communication skills.
8. Tension- Kira Puru
Self explanatory I think! Atlas & Philo have that tension.
9. No Great Mystery- My Own Pet Radio
Another song that encapsulates Philo’s lack of direction and feeling of just going along with other people’s plans.
10. Everything’s Sweet- Kai Straw
Time to end on an upbeat note! This song always makes me think of Philo and his ability to bounce back from just about anything.
Atlas
Atlas’s playlist is more downbeat and moodier compared to Philo’s, just like him. Most of his songs are either about his struggle to understand and express his own emotions, or they’re longing love songs because he’s crushing so hopelessly on Philo.
1. Keep On Running- Andy Bull
This song would be Atlas’s theme song. He always feels as though his best isn’t enough and he just needs to try harder and harder for the approval of others.
2. Smalltown Boy- Bronski Beat
Atlas, running away from his feelings and being a lonely boy.
3. Do It LIke You- Crooked Colours
This song is for the way Atlas feels about Philo. Completely taken by surprise at how he makes him feel.
4. Alight- Ninajirachi
Atlas lying awake at night not being able to get Philo out of his head. He’s down bad!
5. Don’t Delete The Kisses- Wolf Alice
Atlas struggling with his feelings and fears.
6. Be Your Boy- Medium Build
This song is for Atlas being cautiously optimistic about Philo and wanting to be able to connect with him.
7. Nothing’s as It Seems- Gordi
Another song that makes me think of Atlas and the way he puts on a strong face and hides his emotions.
8. I Missed Out- Hockey Dad
Atlas missed out! He worked so hard at the academy that he missed out on making friends, having fun, and getting to know Philo.
9. I Belong Here- Set Mo, Woodes
This song makes me think of Atlas struggling to believe that Philo might like him back, and being scared to mess it up.
