There was a time when I thought tats were for folks who didn't understand that individuality is something found on the inside, along the inner journey. I was wrong. A failure of my own imagination. It's a balance of both inner and outer. I'm a believer in the fine art of tattooing now. This show brought about a seismic change in me. The contestants, for the most part, are impressive artists in the truest sense of the word. But the best part is the panel of judges and especially the host, Dave Navarro. I was familiar with Dave as a guitar virtuoso of the highest order with Jane's Addiction. I also enjoy his podcast which is equal parts high and lowbrow. It's bladder-looseningly hilarious. Dave's double-jointed wit, creativity and intellect is something sorely missing with most reality TV hosts. So I can forgive him for dressing like an Italian grandmother for a funeral in his black shawls and capes. Judge Nunez is intense and hysterical in turns. His knowledge of the artform is impressive. His sartorial choices, much like Dave's, are questionable though. He seems fond of wearing Floridian blouses of tie-dye and animal print design. For this I had to subtract 1 star. Oliver Pecker is also a very knowledgeable judge. He has the most practical fashion sense of the trio. He reminds me of that mustachioed cartoon character that would ramble around singing "Froggy went A-courtin'" and breaking gee-tar strings. He would chase down a cat and pluck a whisker to replace said broken string. Anyway, the show is a masterclass on editing and new, engaging competitions that keep each episode fresh. So strong is my apostasy, that I'm now considering getting some ink myself. Kudos to Dave and the crew!
Review of Ink Master
