Tag Archives: Magneto
a walk through hell, Aftershock, Batman, black crown, Border Town, Chris Claremont, DC Comics, dead rabbit, DIe! Die! Die!, eric m. esquivel, euthanauts, Garth Ennis, Goran Sudzuka, house amok, IDW, Image Comics, in demand, Jeff Stokely, Jordie Bellaire, lollipop kids, Magneto, marvel comics, New York Comic Con, new york comic con 2018, Oblivi8n, Paper Girls, ramon villalobos, redlands, scout comics, Six-Gun Gorilla, The Dreaming, Tom King, tony s. daniel, Uber: Invasion, united states vs. murder inc., Vanesa Del Rey, Vertigo, x-men black: magneto
New York Comic Con is coming–and I’m going! I’ve picked panels; I’ve artist alley-ooh-ed and ah-ed–and I’ve mapped it all out like a cross-eyed pirate. I’ve emptied out the ol’ backpack and have filled it back up again with enough Pro Bars to fuel a contingent of hardcore cosplayers. I am convinced that this’ll be the best Con ever!
My optimism is not unfounded: I’ve conspired with some art reps for some pre-Con commissions from a few talented fellas: Ian Bertram (Allen Ginsberg circa the acid-fueled “Wales Visitation”), Leandro Fernandez (Adrian Chase/Vigilante), and Martin Morazzo (The Ice Cream Man serving up ice cream cones to my Goosebumps-loving daughters). Can’t wait to see what they come up with!
Before the Con, however, we’ve got a notable NCBD. So here’s my weekly FYI:
Dead Rabbit #1 (Image)
Die! Die! Die! #3 (Image)
Paper Girls #25 (Image)
Redlands #7 (Image): I&N Demand NYCC memory: Back in 2013, I had the pleasure of meeting Vanesa Del Rey, mostly by accident. See: I was on the hunt for some Six-Gun Gorilla OA from Jeff Stokely–which I scored, by the way–and VDR just so happened to be seated at an adjacent table. At the time, I knew her only from Hit, which was, at the time, a hit in its own right, and I told her as much. VDR was very friendly; in fact, she asked about my I&N shirt–even asked for a card, which I, regrettably, did not have. (I’ll be cardless this time around, too. ScottNerd–where lessons go to die.) She was kind enough to allow me to take a picture, which we featured in our NYCC 2013 follow-up. And, wouldn’t you know, I’ve been a fan ever since! I enjoyed the hell out of the first arc of Redlands–featuring strong women born of strong writing (a real breath of [Jordie] Bellaire, the otherwise ubiquitous colorist) and beautiful, lush, exceedingly sexy art from VDR–and am very much looking forward to this one.
Euthanauts #3 (IDW/Black Crown)
House Amok #2 (IDW/Black Crown)
Batman #56 (DC): I&N Demand Re: #55: It’s all fun and games until [fill in the blank]. It’s Tom King’s formula–and it’s spectacular. And, of course, the chemistry with Tony S. Daniel, who absolutely killed him it. Re: 56: The perfect foil:
Border Town #2 (DC/Vertigo): I&N Demand Well, I had no idea I’d like #1 as much as I did. Had to shout it out in a 22 I&N 22, which I’ll share here because it says a lot: Bloody moving—a monster of racial relevance; tears down walls, cranks up the stereotypes to once upon a helluva good time. Arriba! You know what that means: expectations for #2 are muy alto–muy, muy alto.
The Dreaming #2 (DC/Vertigo)
United States vs. Murder Inc. #2 (DC/Jinxworld)
X-Men Black: Magneto #1 (Marvel): I&N Demand Chris Mother-effing Claremont writing Magneto. I can feel the tug, the iron in my blood nudging me westward toward my LCS.
Lollipop Kids #1 (AfterShock)
Oblivi8n #2 (Scout)
Uber: Invasion #16 (Avatar)
A Walk Through Hell #5 (AfterShock): I&N Demand Re: the cover: An Hello to Arms–obviously a Prequel to Hemingway’s classic to-hell-and-back wartime love novel. Or maybe it’s just a disarming cover for another horrifying stretch of Ennis and Sudzuka’s A Walk Through Hell. I’m going with the latter ladder–of fucking arms. (Apologies available on a first-come, first-served basis.)
Alan Moore, Archie Horror, Archie vs. Predator, Avatar, Bloodshot: Reborn, BOOM!, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Crossed, Cullen Bunn, David Lapham, Ed Brubaker, Giant Days, Image, Jason Aaron, Magneto, Millennium, My Little Pony: Fiendship Is Magic, Robert Hack, Roberto Aguirre Sacasa, Sabrina, Sean Phillips, Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses, The Fade Out, The Sixth Gun, Thor, Uncanny X-Men, Valiant
Gosh! I’m so late with this that I’ve already read three of ’em.
I wanna read another; so…
Archie vs. Predator #1 (Dark Horse) Just I&N OK, so, like, well, everyone else, I pretty much discovered the Archie-verse with Afterlife and regretted not having visited Riverdale more often after reading–along with everyone else–Life With Archie #36. (Heck of a time to jump on board, eh?) Despite my last-second, Scotty-come-lately Archievement, I was pretty settled on passing on this one. I mean, it sounds silly–sure, like Afterlife didn’t–and I didn’t know from Alex De Campi–until I read No Mercy (Image), which was really, really good. So, yeah, I’ve gone from I don’t care to Just I&N–just like that!
Archie vs. Predator #1
BPRD: Hell on Earth #130 (Dark Horse): As solid a read as your gonna find.
Millennium #4 (IDW): It’s not just Jordan, folks: it’s adult Jordan! That move’s a slam dunk in my book! After three issues, there’s no doubt: this is for hardcore Millennium fans only. Good thing I make a point of watching all three seasons on DVD every summer. Heh. Who knew that old practice would come in handy some day? Oh, but it has: it’s kept me so very ready for the further adventures of Frank Black.
The Fade Out #5 (Image): Honesty: I remember liking #4, but I can’t remember what the hell happened. Rrrrrrrrrrrr <—-That’s my avoiding using an obvious pun.
Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #3 (Image) I&N Demand #1 was our #3 book of February. #2 didn’t quite reach that level, but it still scratched that itch.
Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #3
Magneto #17 (Marvel): Erik’s past has come back to haunt him. No, not that past. Not that one, either. It’s his past-past, his waaaay past–his WWII past: a Nazi tormentor has come to Genosha; he’s murdering mutants and promising to murder more. There’s no way Erik can abide that. Something tells me revenge is in the offing–after he cleans off his bathroom mirror with some disinfectant spray, of course.
Thor #7 (Marvel): We’re getting closer to the big reveal. Series-wise: Aaron has delivered some strong moments–some naturally powerful moments; but they’ve been routinely undermined–destroyed, even!–by awfully obvious moments–made-up girl-power moments that would make Margaret Atwood cringe.
Uncanny X-Men #33 (Marvel): The X-Verse has been falling apart for some time now. Took me long enough, but I’ve finally given up on All-New. I should’ve given up on this one, too. So, so terrible. #31 had Cyclops berated by some nobody student in a moment that felt as unauthentic as Harper Row’s inexplicably lighting into Batman back in Batman #whocares; #32 saw him knocked out by Gold Balls. No, really: he was hit in the head with Gold Balls’ gold balls. This one looks like it’s going to be another patented X-filler issue. It’s Unnecessary X-Men #33! Yeah, I think it’s time.
Bloodshot: Reborn #1 (Valiant): I’m off Descender and All-New Hawkeye after trying two of each. Believe me: I want to love something that Jeff Lemire’s writing; I really do. That’s why I keep trying. And here I am, trying again.
Crossed +100 #4 (Avatar) I&N Demand Alan Moore’s brought a touch of Burgess to his narration and dialogue, making his take on Ennis’s mad, mad, mad, mad world read like A Crossedwork Red. No joke: #3 was not an easy read; but there’s still something terribly compelling about it, mainly because Moore’s clearly building–and patiently so–toward something–something big, maybe something not so big at all, who knows? Maybe he’s forging headlong into the heart of darkness, which he’s done before, and which would mean we’re in for a Conradian adventure–one that’s an exercise in superhuman patience. Because, let’s be honest, we all know that anything worth having is worth the work–and the wait. That’s what I skull, anyway.
Giant Days #2 (BOOM!) I&N Demand I had no idea what to expect from Giant Days. Maybe that’s why I ended up loving it as much as I did. Could also be because it’s just that good. Damn thing’s hilarious. Keep an eye out: I’m going to fight to include #1 in our Top 5 for March.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #2 (Archie) I&N Demand Man, I’ve been waiting for this. #1 was one of my favorite single issues of 2014. It was so good–so much better than that other, over-hyped wytch-themed book that overshadowed it; you know, the one that cast a spell with its creators’ names but ended up delivering a real wooden piece of “CHHIT.” No, Sabrina does everything right: it’s a masterclass in storytelling–in juxtaposition, in pacing, and most important, in horror–from Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa–the genius behind Afterlife With Archie–and the panel-perfect Robert Hack. What a mind-eff, no? Seems the comic book home of true terror is Archie Horror!
The Sixth Gun: Dust to Dust #3 (Oni): Yay! I get to add another issue to my Sixth Gun pile.
My Little Pony: Fiendship Is Magic #3 (IDW): Avery’s Grammy saw #2, read the title through Fiendship, and stopped short with an “Oh.” I assured her that it’s a series about some of the Pony villains. Turns out that my definition of assured isn’t the same as hers.
My Little Pony: Fiendship Is Magic #3
Ales Kot, Alex + Ada, BOOM!, Burning Fields, Cap Sone, Christina McCormack, Cullen Bunn, Dark Horse, David Lapham, DC Comics, Divinity, Frankenstein Underground, Geoff Johns, Howard Chaykin, IDW, Image, Invisible Republic, Joe Harris, John Romita Jr., Jonathan Hickman, Jonathan Luna, Kevin Eastman, Klaus Janson, Liam Sharp, Magneto, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Matt Kindt, Mike Mignola, Millennium, Mind MGMT, Moon Knight, Nick Pitarra, Outcast, Robert Kirkman, Sarah Vaughn, Satellite Sam, Secret Identities, Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses, Superman, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Manhattan Projects: The Sun Beyond the Stars, Titan, Tom Waltz, Valiant, zero
Am I behind in my reading? Yes. Is this post late? Umm, yeah. Has the comic book world gone insane this week? Crazier than Moore’s Joker, that’s for sure.
Frankenstein Underground #1 (Dark Horse): Anything with Mignola’s name tied to it screams… Well, yeah: it screams. Been around the catacomb a time or two with Frankenstein’s monster, haven’t we?
Mind MGMT #31 (Dark Horse): I&N Demand #30 was easily our #1 book of January. Damn thing erased everything and rewrote it even more painfully. There’s something Stray Bullets-ish about Kindt’s attention to detail across the series, in the impact of each issue; in this case, however, every round is a shot to the head.
Superman #39 (DC): Geoff Johns’ Superman sounds like Superman, and I’m a super happy man as a result. Who cares if the storyline didn’t develop as well as it could’ve and if Romita and Janson’s artwork appeared faster than a speeding bullet and about as powerful as Mister Roger’s Neighborhood Trolley.
Millennium #2 (IDW): I’m hooked! Joe Harris and Colin Lorimer have captured the creepy, tense, and schizophrenic tone of the TV show–or has the tone captured them?
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #44 (IDW): As much as I’ve enjoyed my stay–starting with “City Fall”–I think I’m gonna sai goodbye–I’m gonna katana and run. I’m gonna nunchuk TMNT off of the ol’ pull list; I’m gonna bō out after this arc.
Alex + Ada #13 (Image): I&N Demand This book is a whisper–the breath of a lover that fills your ear and sets off a silent storm that races up your spine, steels your muscles, and makes your skin scream. Yeah, that’s exactly what it is.
Alex + Ada #13
Invisible Republic #1 (Image): Leaning toward passing. I’ll thumb through it and see if something strikes me.
The Manhattan Projects: The Sun Beyond the Stars #1 (Image): Hoping that the new format is the key to recapturing the science behind this once superior series.
Outcast #7 (Image): Pretty close to exorcizing this one from the list, as well. Despite some interesting moments, I haven’t developed a connection to Kyle–at least one that has me caring enough to carry on with this very wayward son.
Satellite Sam #12 (Image): I&N Demand The best TV show in comics. Each episode/issue is a sprawling mosaic of self-interest that reads–unlikely–like a long-story-short told round the water cooler. Love it.
Satellite Sam #12
Secret Identities #2 (Image): I was kind of hung up on the untransitions from one character’s secret story to the next. It was a odd choice for a first issue–unless, of course, it was done to emphasize the separate personal spheres, which are such an integral part of the story. Hmm. The twist at the end: ho-hum. Had me thinking Deathmatch in spots. Maybe that’s why I’m on to #2.
Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #2 (Image): I&N Demand Spanish Scott is a galleon of gold, and #1 let him shine: his pistolet-à-tête-à-pistolet with Beth and Kretch ranks as one of my favorite panels of the year.
Zero #15 (Image): I&N Demand #14 could’ve easily ended the series, right? Can’t not speak of the protracted fight scene, which had its moments–including an stare down that jumped off of the page; otherwise, it seemed unnecessary, almost lazy storytelling-wise, which contradicts most of what Kot’s done since #9, our top book of July 2014. It’s been a remarkable run, one that was due a hiccup.
Zero #15
Magneto #16 (Marvel): Magneto’s a badass. And that’s all ye need to know. Wondering what “Secret Wars” is going to do to the mighty Magneto.
Moon Knight #13 (Marvel): Wood and Smallwood’s run–which rounded out 2014 on a high note–stumbled across the finish line with an inexplicably weak resolution to an otherwise compelling story. Now Bunn takes over–with artist Ron Ackins–with expectations unexpectedly lower. Lucky Bunn.
Burning Fields #2 (BOOM!): I thought #1 was pretty solid. I mentioned that it was like Homeland and The Killing. #2 had me thinking The Bridge. Also kind of lost me a bit. I considered just letting it go, but still I buy.
Cap Stone #4 (Titan): Has been OK through three issues. Certainly hasn’t lived up to the promise of the poetic and beautiful–and near miraculous–first issue. Had Moore in mind; ended up Less. Don’t get me wrong: I appreciate Sharp’s vision. Page to page, the narrative’s like nothing I’ve ever seen. At times, however, the disjointedness causes the narrative to stall.
Divinity #2 (Valiant): I liked #1. I’m a big Kindt fan, but I’ve struggled to find a series outside of Mind MGMT that works for me. Sure, I’ve enjoyed The Valiant, but he’s sharing writing duties with Jeff Lemire on that one. While not mind-blowing by any stretch of the imagination, #1 hit some Kindt-ian notes that rang true, that carried consistently through the issue, leaving me far more satisfied than I was after reading Rai and Ninjak. I certainly hope that #2 transcends to the divine.
All-New Captain America, Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw, Batman and Robin, Ben Wolstenholme, Bitch Planet, BOOM!, BPRD, Brian Michael Bendis, Brian Wood, Burning Fields, Cap Stone, Chris Bachalo, Christina McCormack, Colin Lorimer, comics, Cullen Bunn, Dan Slott, Dark Horse, Dark Horse Presents, DC Comics, Dynamite Entertainment, Gabriel Hernandez Walta, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Greg Smallwood, Guiu Vilanova, Image, Iron Fist: The Living Weapon, J. Michael Straczynski, Jay Faerber, Jeff Lemire, Joe Rivera, John Arcudi, Kaare Andrews, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Kurt Busiek, Lazarus, Liam Sharp, Magneto, Marvel, Mastermen, Matt Kindt, Michael Lark, Michael Moreci, Mike Allred, Mike Mignola, Mono, Moon Knight, Paolo Rivera, Patrick Gleason, Peter J. Tomasi, Quentin Tarantino, Raze, Rick Remender, Secret Identities, Silver Surfer, Stuart Immonen, The Multiversity, The Twilight Zone, The Valiant, Tim Daniel, Titan, Uncanny X-Men, Valiant, Zoë Bell
Wednesday’s forecast for the weather outside of my local comic shop is pretty much the same as its been: as cold as can be. (I guess someone’s gone and ticked off Elsa again.) The forecast for inside, however, is hot hot hot! (That’s right: the way to thaw a frozen heart is with an act of true love–in this case, a perfectly pulled bag of comics!) Speaking of hot books: our Top Ten Books of 2014 is well represented this week. Take a peek:
BPRD: Hell on Earth #128 (Dark Horse): Has been good–not great. Definitely glad I jumped on board, though.
Dark Horse Presents #7 (Dark Horse): DHP has been great–especially at the new price point. This month’s edition offers up a little Matt Kindt–and Mignola, Van Lente, Aragonés, and more! Talk about bang for your buck!
Batman and Robin #39 (DC): The Action-packed cover’s very clever:
Batman and Robin #39
I know better, though: B&R‘s been a huge disappointment for months now. In fact, I finally got around to dropping it from my pull list last month. No longer under any obligation, I should leave it on the shelf and fill the void with something new. God knows there will be plenty of players for the spot. Image alone has a thousand new titles coming out in the next few months, so…
The Multiversity: Mastermen #1 (DC) Just I&N Morrison’s Multiversity has been a metafiction metahuman masterwork! And now, Mastermen–with every-panel’s-a-pinup Jim Lee on art duties.
Multiversity: Mastermen #1
Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw #4 (Image): I can’t be the only one who’s noticed: the current arc of Astro City‘s been a bit blah; but this has been really, really good. Coincidence?
Bitch Planet #3 (Image): I enjoyed #1 for all sorts of reasons (exploiting exploitation, lots of Tarantino, hints of Fraction, etc.). Hey: borrowing works well when it works well. Oh, but when it doesn’t… #2 lost me from the get-go–especially as I was taken immediately to a low budget modern-day exploitation flick that I caught one night on one of the Showtime or HBO channels: Raze, starring Tarantino darling Zoë Bell. Coincidence?
Raze (2013)
I’ll try this one and see where it takes me.
Lazarus #15 (Image) I&N Demand Our #2 book of 2014! It’s what we’ve been waiting for for like, well, forever: Forever in a Trial by Combat against another Lazarus!
Lazarus #15
Secret Identities #1 (Image): Jay Faerber’s earned Must Try status with Copperhead.
All-New Captain America #4 (Marvel): I know, I know. But it hasn’t been terrible. And this time out, Remender’s dusting off the Armadillo! Gotta wonder, though, what effect Secret Wars is going to have on this little experiment–and if it’s worth following a dead title shelf-sitting.
Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #9 (Marvel): I love what Kaare Andrews is doing with Danny Rand. In fact, Iron Fist was my #16 book of 2014–and my third-favorite superhero monthly after Silver Surfer and Moon Knight. High praise, indeed!
Magneto #15 (Marvel): Bunn’s done a nice job of telling stories from issue to issue. He’s delivered some nice twists along the way, too. #14 ended with Magneto’s giving himself up to S.H.I.E.L.D. Wonder what his endgame is…
Moon Knight #12 (Marvel) I&N Demand Our #8 book of 2014! #11 ended on a bit of a down note–you know, with Marc Spector falling out of a flying detention facility and all. (Wood and Smallwood must’ve watched–and liked–Stallone’s waterlogged–yet undeniably watchable–prison break bingo, Escape Plan, as they delivered quite an homage with Spector in Stallone’s role and Khonshu in Schwarzenegger’s.) Not looking forward to saying goodbye to Wood and Smallwood, but I am looking forward to seeing how they end their arc–and how they leave things for Cullen Bunn and Ron Ackins. Maybe they’ll reach back to Bullet to the Head. Or Avenging Angelo…
Moon Knight #12
Silver Surfer #9 (Marvel) I&N Demand Our #4 book of 2014! Well orchestrated fun from Dan Slott and Michael Allred! The biggest–and best–superhero monthly around–and this issue promises to be HUGE!
Uncanny X-Men #31 (Marvel): Bendis is on his way out. That promises some real havoc in the X-Universe. No, really–look:
Uncanny X-Men #31
Burning Fields #2 (BOOM!): Kinda like a cross between The Killing and Homeland. Not a bad thing.
Cap Stone #3 (Titan): Some real high points: the conversation between Charlie and her mom; the wild shifts in Sharp’s artwork. Some low points, too: the conversation between Charlie and her mom; the wild shifts in Sharp’s artwork. I loved #1. #2, however, exposed a serious flaw: inconsistency. Still intriguing enough, though.
Mono #3 (Titan): Another book from Liam Sharp that took a step back after a very promising premier. What spoiled the sophomore offering: the conversation–coincidence?–between Heinrich and Isabella, which acts as a dragline on the storyline. Also seems waaaaaay too serious for a book about an ape-man secret agent and assassin for the Queen, doesn’t it? It’s so goddamned dour! I do like the layered approach that Sharp’s taking to create the Mono myth, however.
The Valiant #3 (Valiant) I&N Demand I liked #1 enough–but I absolutely loved #2! I was particularly struck by the artistic collaboration between Lemire and Kindt on the storybook section. Sure, many of the notes that are struck remind of Lemire’s run on Animal Man; but what the hell–they work well here, so all the better!
The Valiant #3
The Twilight Zone #12 (Dynamite) I&N Demand Our #10 book of 2014! This issue ends an extremely powerful arc and Straczynski and Vilanova’s superior run. So sad to see this go. Hmm. Maybe–just maybe–I could travel back in time and kill another series–Dream Police, for instance–in its place…
The Twilight Zone #12
Adam Archer, Andre Sirangelo, Archaia, Archer & Armstrong, Armor Hunters: Harbinger, Batman and Robin, Black Market, BOOM!, Cullen Bunn, Daredevil, Dark Horse, Dark Horse Presents, David Lapham, David Mack, DC Comics, Ed Brubaker, Frank Barbiere, Frank Miller, Fred Van Lente, G. Willow Wilson, Gabriel Hernandez Walta, Gabriel Iumazark, Geof Darrow, Grant Morrison, IDW, Image, Ivan Reis, James Asmus, Jamie McKelvie, Javier Rodriguez, Josh Elder, Joshua Dysart, Joshua Hale Fialkov, Kabuki, Kano, Kieron Gillen, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, Magneto, Mark Waid, Marvel, Ms. Marvel, Oni Press, Patrick Gleason, Peter J. Tomasi, Quantum and Woody, Scribblenauts Unmasked, Sean Phillips, Stray Bullets: Killers, The Delinquents, The Fade Out, The Last Broadcast, The Life After, The Multiversity, The Wicked & The Divine, Valiant
Looking forward to a few HUGE number ones: DC’s Multiversity, Image’s The Fade Out, and Valiant’s The Delinquents. Also have my eye on the repriced DHP. Plenty of other good stuff, too–including an against-the-odds purchase that might bring down the walls of my LCS!
Dark Horse Presents 2014 #1 (Dark Horse): I would buy Geoff Darrow and Frank Miller’s anything. I even would’ve paid $7.99! But the fellas at Dark Horse have decided to knock down the price of DHP with the “reboot.” So we’re talking $4.99 for Darrow and Miller and, among other anthological amuse-bouches, David Mack’s Kabuki! Yes, please!
Dark Horse Presents 2014 #1
Batman and Robin #34 (DC): Robin is still rising. I hope he does a better job of it this time around–especially considering how awful the awfully disappointing Robin Rises: Omega was. That’s right: sad to say, my favorite Batman book earned the ignominious distinction of being the Biggest Dis(appointment) of July.
The Multiversity #1 (DC): Grant Morrison is back–finally. He’s been missed–by us and, most assuredly, by the DC powers that be. (Marvel’s been cleaning their clocks for a while now; so it’s about time.) His name is synonymous with quality–even if it is an awkwardly incomprehensible quality.
The Multiversity #1
Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland #1 (IDW): I don’t have any experience with Little Nemo, but this looks too good to pass up.
The Fade Out #1 (Image): Hot on the high heels of the Fatale finale comes this new series from Brubaker and Phillips. The description reminds of Fraction and Chaykin’s Satellite Sam–which is not a bad thing.
The Fade Out #1
Stray Bullets: Killers #6 (Image): The first new Amy Racecar issue brought a little horsepower back to Lapham’s Bullets, which has been grinding its gears a bit since a high-octane first issue–which Derek gushed over here.
Supreme: Blue Rose #2 (Image): Re: #1: I felt kinda lost. Figure I’ll give it another issue, you know, ’cause it’s Ellis.
Trees #4 (Image): #2 earned our Biggest Dis(appointment) of June. #3 didn’t necessarily wash the taste of #2 from our mouths, but, for the quality of the conversation, it certainly changed the flavor a bit. Just when I thought I’d be free of Trees, Ellis sucks me right back in.
The Wicked & The Divine #3 (Image): I thought #2 was OK–certainly better than the first one. It didn’t make me want to call it quits, nor did it leave me inconsolable over the fact that I’d have to wait a month for #3. Damn thing reeks of arrogance–which suits the godly gang well. I still think the premise is kinda cool, and I’ve come to have more faith in Gillen thanks to Über; so I’m sticking around. We’ll see what happens. (Side note: anyone else seeing similarities between this and Azzarello’s Wonder Woman? A quick flip through just gave me that vibe.)
The Wicked & The Divine #3
Daredevil #7 (Marvel): The Original Sin tie-in was actually pretty good and included one of the best DD double-page spreads I’ve ever heard. On to another, more about Matt’s mother–and off to Wakanda.
Magneto #8 (Marvel): Re: #7: not my favorite issue. More a carried note than a new one. Translation: the pattern that Bunn’s been following stood out more than the story itself. Hope that doesn’t carry forward.
Ms. Marvel #7 (Marvel): I can’t believe I’m saying this: I didn’t care very much for #6. My secret crush–the marvelous Kamala Khan–was insufferable! Ugh! How did endearingly awkward twist to annoyingly annoying so darned quickly? And my concerns about the change in artist–well, they were well founded. Wyatt’s work may as well have been lined with metal, too. I’m not ready to quit Kamala, but I am, quite suddenly, anxious about our next meeting.
Armor Hunters: Harbinger #2 (Valiant): The first one didn’t do much for me. Probably going to ride it out anyway.
Black Market #2 (BOOM!): I’ve pretty much hated everything I’ve read from Frank Barbiere–until Black Market #1. Everything about it worked–especially the end. Definitely looking forward to my experience with #2–maybe more so than #2 itself. Is it possible that I’ll like another issue of a Barbiere book?
The Delinquents #1 (Valiant): This has the potential of being the best thing ever, you know, with Van Lente and Asmus clinking their heads together like IPA-filled pint glasses. I couldn’t be hoppier–er, happier about this collaboration. Add to the toast the oft-amazing Kano, who blew us away with his work on Quantum and Woody #10, and, well, I’m willing to “Wow!” before I even read it!
The Delinquents #1
The Last Broadcast #4 (BOOM!/Archaia): We’ve loved the series thus far–and we’ve broadcasted it to all who’d listen. We made #2 one of our Top 5 Books of June and #3 just missed despite its being maybe even better than #2. (Yeah, July was a pretty stacked month. Top 5 to come.) Very much looking forward to this.
The Last Broadcast #4
The Life After #2 (Oni Press): Suicide certainly is a touchy subject–made even more so with the recent loss of Robin Williams. For some, the wound might be too fresh. For me, however, that wound calloused over a long time ago. A high school classmate of mine took her life during our junior year; it’s something I’ve never gotten over but have learned to live with. Fialkov is healing with the help of some famous figures. I’m willing to follow along.
Scribblenauts Unmasked: A Crisis of Imagination #8 (DC): Avery’s embrace of #7 went viral. OK, so it wasn’t Ebola; but it certainly infected writer Josh Elder. Odds are good she’s gonna hug this one, too!
Adam Archer, Alph, Andre Sirangelo, Antonio Campo, Archaia, Ben Templesmith, Brian Michael Bendis, C. Willow Wilson, Casey Maloney, Cullen Bunn, Dan Slott, David Lapham, DC Comics, Dicks, Doodle Jump, Dynamite Entertainment, Gabriel Iumazark, Garth Ennis, Georgia Ball, Harbinger, IDW, Image, Jake Wyatt, Jamie McKelvie, John McCrea, Josh Elder, Joshua Dysart, Joshua Hale Fialkov, Kamala, Kevin Eastman, Kieron Gillen, Kris Anka, Kurtis J. Wiebe, Littlest Pet Shop, Magneto, Mario Udzenija, Marvel, Mateus Santolouco, Meredith Gran, Mike Allred, Ms. Marvel, Nico Pena, Patrick Gleason, Peter Tomasi, Q-bert, Rat Queens, Robin Rises: Omega, Roc Upchurch, Scribblenauts Unmasked, Silver Surfer, Stray Bullets: Killers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Devilers, The Last Broadcast, The Last Fall, The Squidder, The Wicked & The Divine, Tom Waltz, Uncanny X-Men, Valiant
A big week with some stand-out books and a few make-or-breakers, too. Toss in a bunch of #1’s and you’ve got yourself a pretty full bag.
Oh, and a picture of a wrestler.
Robin Rises: Omega #1 (DC): It’s all led to this. By it, I mean: early on, Tomasi did a terrific job of toeing the Bat-line that Morrison drew in Batman Inc.; but for the most part the post-Two Face team-ups were terribly tedious. Stitching Batman to Frankenstein worked well, however, because of its acting as a natural segue into Robin’s resurrection–or whatever’s going to go down. Who knows? Maybe Robin’ll come back less human than human; maybe he’ll forevermore be known as–wait for it–Robzombie.
Robin Rises: Omega #1
The Squidder #1 (IDW): Trying out some new Ben Templesmith, who’s trying out some words along with his usually stunning images.
The Last Fall #1 (IDW): Writer Tom Waltz has had a hand in making TMNT a must buy. I’m willing to give him a shot here.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #36 (IDW): That’s right: TMNT is a must buy. The story’s been solid, and Mateus Santolouco’s art has been instrumental in redefining the Turtles.
Rat Queens #7 (Image): The Unreal Queens of Comedy are back to offend our sensibilities–and, as #6 proved, to make us like ’em all a little bit more. (Yeah, the four-panel first page snagged me but good.) One thing that keeps me coming back for more: it reminds me of the late Drew Hayes’s Poison Elves. (God, I loved Poison Elves!)
Stray Bullets: Killers #5 (Image): I agreed completely with Derek’s assessment–his very positive assessment–of SB:K #1. Since then, however, Lapham hasn’t quite killed it. Rooting hard for Amy Racecar.
Stray Bullets: Killers #5
The Wicked & The Divine #2 (Image): The title’s got me thinking less about the book itself and more about Kieron Gillen. I love Uber and really liked Three (Divine!); his post-Schism Uncanny X-Men was unreadable, and Young Avengers was wildly over-hyped (Wicked!). After #1, I’m leaning toward the latter. One thing going for it: it read not unlike a Johnathan Hickman book–just with characters who are annoying as hell.
Magneto #7 (Marvel): While #5 fell a bit flat, #6 reestablished Magneto’s mojo–with a vengeance! It’s all about vengeance, ain’t it? Good for us. Kudos to Cullen Bunn, who has gone a long way toward establishing himself as the master of the Master of Magnetism.
Ms. Marvel #6 (Marvel): #5 was the weakest issue thus far. Not saying it wasn’t good; there was just something…inconsistent about it. Wondering how the new artist–Jake Wyatt–will affect the book, especially considering how instrumental Adrian Alphona has been in making this book so magical from the get-go . I’m still very high on Kamala, though.
Not this one…
This one. Duh.
Silver Surfer #4 (Marvel): We’ve celebrated #1 and #2 as Top 5 books–of March and April, respectively. And, not surprisingly, you’ll soon find that we liked #3 a whole lot, too. No doubt: this last wave of Marvel books has been damn good; and of the bunch riding it–including the aforementioned Ms. Marvel and Magneto, plus the knockout Iron Fist–Slott and Allred’s Silver Surfer is the Big Kahuna.
Uncanny X-Men #23 (Marvel): I’ve admitted it already, but I’ll do so again; see, it needs to be emphasized–especially since I was such a tough customer: I like what Bendis is doing on both X-books. That’s right: I’m a believer! And not simply on the strength of one or two issues of each; no, I’d still be cautious–maybe even rude–with such a small sampling. After several issues of each–of All-New and Uncanny–I haven’t had a single thing to complain about! Well, it’s more than just not having something to complain about: Bendis has found the all-important balance between the serious and the silly that must be struck in order for the X-Men to work. Works for me.
Black Market #1 (BOOM!): I haven’t really liked anything I’ve read from Frank Barbiere (Five Ghosts, White Suits); but, as I tried those, I’ll probably try this one.
Dicks: End of Time #2: I hope I score the offensive cover! Honesty: I felt like a jerk buying it, more so while reading it, and totally after. Yup, I’m Super Wanker!
Harbinger #25 (Valiant): Here comes Harada! Doesn’t look like he’s gonna Toyo with Peter any longer. Ouch. Sorry for that. Speaking of ouch: plenty of ouch potential here, right? I mean, anniversary issues usually suck. A gaggle of special guests usually results in an overpriced mess, doesn’t it? Hoping for more.
The Last Broadcast #3 (Archaia): Thus far, The Last Broadcast has been a magical experience! In fact, we’re going to be celebrating #2 as a top book of June, you know, when we finally get around to it. Seriously, though, Andre Sirangelo and Gabriel Iumazark have pieced together an engrossing mystery that plays like a Polanski film (Frantic, The Ninth Gate). (Hey, I might use that in my Top 5 review…)
The Devilers #1 (Dynamite): If I see Joshua Hale Fialkov’s name on a book, I’m going to buy the book. Where he’s at now (The Bunker, The Life After), odds are good this’ll be hella good.
Avery’s Picks of the Week:
Scribblenauts Unmasked: A Crisis of Imagination #7 (DC): She’s got the first six, so there’s no stopping now–even if she has no idea what’s going on. After all, we’re a family of completists. Unless a book really sucks, of course.
Scribblenauts #7
Littlest Pet Shop #3 (IDW): The first two were cute enough.
Doodle Jump #2 (Dynamite): Oh, Avery’s going to totally jump for Doodle! What is Doodle Jump, you ask? It’s Q-bert on drugs. Well, Q-bert on more drugs.
Doodle Jump #2
30 Monday Jun 2014
Alan Moore, Avatar, Caliban, Clone, Cullen Bunn, David Schulner, Declan Shalvey, East of West, Ed Brisson, Extinction Parade War, Garth Ennis, Goran Parlov, Greg Rucka, Howard Chaykin, Image, Iron Fist: The Living Weapon, J. Michael Straczynski, James Asmus, Jason Aaron, Jonathan Hickman, Juan Jose Ryp, Kaare Andrews, Kieron Gillen, Lazarus, Magneto, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Max Brooks, Michael Lark, Miracleman, Moon Knight, Nick Dragotta, Quantum and Woody, Rocket Raccoon, Satellite Sam, Scottie Young, Sheltered, Sidekick, Southern Bastards, The Twilight Zone, Tom Mandrake, Uber, Valiant, Wade McIntyre, Warren Ellis, Wilfredo Torres
As you know, our sign off is “Turning pages.” As of today, for the foreseeable future, I’ll also be “turning Paige’s” whatever it is she wants me to turn or needs me to turn. That’s right: my second daughter was born this afternoon–and still I’m making sure to get this list out on time! So here it is: What’s I&N Store: The Hospital Edition:
Clone #18 (Image): Clone is humming along, as solid as ever, with ethical dilemmas driving the plot–toward a collision between the clones and the coalition. Will Luke kill the father and son? Will Laura kidnap Luke’s son? Gosh, I hope so.
East of West #13 (Image): Re: #12: the entire issue is a meeting amongst the nations. Just a meeting, you ask? Oh, no, not just a meeting: it’s the best damned meeting, like, ever! Xiaolian Mao makes the case for war; and Hickman and Dragotta use some superior panel work to take us around a very tense table, giving all in attendance the opportunity to explode with rage–or with something else, you know, like, in the case of Mr. Graves, a bomb. East of West has been very good of late, with this issue standing as one of the strongest of the series thus far.
Lazarus #9 (Image): #8 was one of our top books of April. Check out why here.
Satellite Sam #9 (Image): Did you get your Tijuana Bible straight away? Or did you have to ask for the insert? Did you kinda cringe after opening it and then shove it inside Sam and place it all together on your finished pile? Dirty distraction aside, #8 was very good. Almost earned Top Five honors for May. Sure, Fraction’s earning raves for the wildly overrated Sex Criminals, which I’ve dumped as of #6 after having realized that I could have this conversation with my friends for free; but his best work is right here.
Sheltered #10 (Image): A fist-pumping “Yes!” moment was enough to sell me on another issue. Yeah, I’m talking about Curt’s gettin’ his comeuppance and about taking Sheltered one issue at a time.
Sidekick #7 (Image): I ended up liking the first arc a lot. Definitely my favorite of the Joe’s Comics offerings. Clearly my favorite, considering the fact that it’s the only one I’ve stuck with. Oh, and I haven’t been turned off by Straczynski’s borrowing from himself (see the first arc of The Twilight Zone); after the initial surprise, it was just something worth remarking.
Southern Bastards #3 (Image): We loved #1 and celebrated it as a Top 5 book of April. #2, while a decent single issue, suffered in comparison to such a strong opening statement. Here’s another strong statement: I’m hoping that Aaron and Latour rebound here; otherwise, I may consider pulling the Bastards from my pull list.
Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #4 (Marvel): #3 was a particularly strong issue. Hasn’t taken long for writer/artist Kaare Andrews to assume complete control over Danny Rand/Iron Fist. He’s balanced the past and present like yin and yang, and, artistically, has injected just the right amount of fantasy into this kick-ass Kung-fu tragedy.
Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #4
Magneto #6 (Marvel): Bunn’s Magneto–and his approach to piecing the vengeful mutant’s story together–has been attractive on a very singular level. Who needs layers, right? Not Bunn; not here. And his decision to keep it simple–employing steely page turns to great effect along the way–has been the key to his making Magneto a must read. #5, however, crashed into a cliche. Hope things return to normal here.
Miracleman #8 (Marvel): Still sitting on 5-7. Derek’s been raving about them. I’ll get around to ’em eventually.
Moon Knight #5 (Marvel): Thanks to Warren Ellis’s vision, Moon Knight‘s been weird and fun, smart and exciting. It’s also been a showcase for Declan Shalvey, as Ellis has allowed him to do some top-notch visual storytelling. #4 was particularly weird, and in its weirdness offered up some terrific transitions in the mindscape and ended emphatically on an abrupt note, one that reminds of Terry Moore’s sudden endings on Rachel Rising. Moon Knight is so much better than anything Dark Knight right now. I hope that the coming change in creative team doesn’t change that.
Rocket Raccoon #1 (Marvel): I’m gonna give it a shot because Derek said he’s giving it a shot on the strength of Skottie Young.
Rocket Raccoon #1
Caliban #4 (Avatar): I’ve enjoyed it enough for what it is: a Sci-Fi horror story with some grisly moments–see the end of #3–a la Avatar. Ennis’s writing keeps the story moving, even if it doesn’t necessarily help one differentiate among the characters; in that, his ensemble cast, so far, anyway, lacks star power. Not typical of Ennis.
Extinction Parade: War #1 (Avatar): It’s been a while since the first arc ended. Might have to freshen up before going to war.
Quantum and Woody #12 (Valiant): #10 earned a spot in our Top 5 for May because it came together on so many levels to create a terrific character study of the wild and wonderful Woody. #11 was a strong follow up with some real hot dogging by James Asmus, who has established himself as one of the best funny businessmen in comics. Hard to believe this book–at least this iteration–is coming to a close. Reason to be excited: the team-up with Archer and Armstrong. Van Lente and Asmus together on the same book? Readers may literally die from laughing so hard.
The Twilight Zone #6 (Dynamite): #5 drew us into another part of the world Straczynski created during the first arc. A much less interesting part of the world. Look out for the heavy hand!
Uber #15 (Avatar): I always look forward to reading Gillen’s Uber because it’s never a difficult read and because something remarkable always happens to force the story forward. What more can one ask for? Also of note: it’s very different stylistically from The Wicked & The Divine. That one read like a Hickman book. I know his latest offering is only one issue in, but as of now, I prefer what he’s doing with Uber.
A Voice in the Dark, Adam Metcalfe, Alan Davis, Ales Kot, American Vampire: The Second Cycle, Batman and Frankenstein, BOOM!, Brian Azzarello, Brian K. Vaughan, Brian Michael Bendis, CAFU, Chondra Echert, Chris Bachalo, Chris Samnee, Claudio Sanchez, Cullen Bunn, Damien Worm, Daniel Bayless, Daredevil, DC Comics, Diego Bernard, Dynamite, East of West, Ed Brubaker, Elektra, Fiona Staples, Frank Barbiere, Fred Van Lente, IDW, Image, Jason Aaron, Jeff Stokely, Jim McCann, Joe Infunari, Jonathan Hickman, Joshua Hale Fialkov, Larime Taylor, Magneto, Magnus: Robot Fighter, Mark Millar, Mark Waid, Marvel, Matt Kindt, Mike Deodato, Mind the Gap, Miracleman, Monster & Madman, MPH, Nick Dragotta, Numbercruncher, Oni Press, Ordinary, Original Sin, Patrick Gleason, Peter J. Tomasi, Rob Williams, Robert Venditti, Rodin Esquejo, Saga, Scott Snyder, Si Spurrier, Six-Gun Gorilla, Solar: Man of the Atom, Steve Epting, Steve Niles, The Bunker, Titan, Translucid, Uncanny X-Men, Unity, Valiant, Velvet, Vertigo, W. Haden Blackman, Wonder Woman, X-O Manowar, zero
Yup: I’ll be walking out of Android’s Amazing Comics with two full bags of books. This is the longest list yet and is a testament to my insatiable appetite, my unchecked addiction for comics.
American Vampire: The Second Cycle #3 (DC/Vertigo): The standout Snyder moment of #2: the creature with an imploring Peter inside of it. Creepy as hell. Speaking of: I wasn’t so tempted by the devil of an ending. But even after two issues, it’s clear that this is where Snyder does his best work.
American Vampire: The Second Cycle #3
Batman and Frankenstein #31 (DC): My interest is on life support. It’s the promise of Frankenstein that’s keeping it alive. For now. See: Tomasi’s not as sharp as he’s been; and Gleason, in the last issue, disappointed with his wonky Wonder Woman. I know they’re building toward the return of Robin and that that’s going to be epic, blah, blah, blah. But shouldn’t each issue leading up to it be just as epic–and if not, at least be as tight as an Amazon? I’m talking temper. What’d you think I was talking about?
Wonder Woman #31 (DC): Speaking of tight Amazons: #30 was excellent. Nearly made our Top 5 Books of April. I mean, come on: how about that last page. Make a wish, indeed! That’s high praise for a book that’s been solid, sure, but that has rarely hit a homerun. And even when it has, they’ve been softball homeruns. This last issue, however, would’ve been out of any Big League park–well, except for maybe Citi Field.
Monster and Madman #3 (IDW): Has been a fun ride thus far. Niles doesn’t just hit the right notes–he slays them; and Worm’s art provides a perfectly horrific backdrop for this grotesque get-together.
A Voice in the Dark #7 (Image): I’m hoping that this arc ender screams bloody murder! Just sayin’.
East of West #12 (Image): Hickman’s a world builder who works at his own pace: he takes his time laying a foundation and has certainly taken his time here, that’s for sure. Of late, however, stories are thrusting skyward with such force so as to pierce our patient expectations. Protect your eyes, friends, because East of West is finally fulfilling promises.
Mind the Gap #17 (Image): Jim McCann’s masterful mystery tour returns with Act II! Finally. Was one of my top 20 books of 2013. It’s one Elle of a story–and it’s definitely worth jumping on.
MPH #1 (Image): Another Mark Millar product arrives fast on the heels of his terrific Starlight. Of course I’m going to buy it. And if subsequent issues come out on time, all the better!
Saga #19 (Image): “A very new direction”? Hmm. Normally, I’d be nervous; but not here: Vaughan and Staples are the best writer/artist pair in the business. We celebrated Saga as our #4 book of 2013, and Vaughan and Staples have been nominated for the 2014 Innies for Best Writer and Best Artist, respectively.
Velvet #5 (Image): Brubaker and Epting are doin’ their thing, and it’s rubbing me the right way. Reads a lot like–but isn’t quite as good as–Rucka and Lark’s Lazarus. The first arc ends here. Expecting a bang or two.
Zero #8 (Image): #7 was a well-crafted return to form after a very disappointing, near-nonsensical #6.
Daredevil #3 (Marvel): #2 was Daredevil in every sense–including sight: it’s dark, it’s funny–it’s fearless. New York, San Fran: doesn’t matter; this hero’s the heart of any city he’s in.
Daredevil #3
Elektra #2 (Marvel): I may have to pass. Sai. W. Haden Blackman’s writing was enigmatic at times (as it could be in Batwoman)–and, I mean, come on: Bloody Lips?! A villainous vagina dentata! Ouch! Doesn’t help that we’re headed to Monster Island. Because when I think of Elektra, I think of Monster Island.
Magneto #4 (Marvel): Fatal attraction, indeed: Cullen Bunn’s Magneto’s proving to be a real bad ass. On a less serious note, I’ve switched to binder clips.
Miracleman #6 (Marvel): Haven’t gotten around to #5 yet. Doesn’t matter: I’d pile these up to heaven.
Original Sin #2 (Marvel): Jason Aaron’s earned my attention with a killer kickoff to Southern Bastards, which means I’m going to give in to Sin even though I wasn’t exactly thrilled by it.
Uncanny X-Men #21 (Marvel): This is weird for me; yeah, I’m not used to saying this: #20 was pretty good. I dig me some Chris Bachalo, and Bendis kept him mighty busy.
The Bunker #4 (Oni Press): Continues to be a revelation: Fialkov’s showing complete mastery over time with his simultaneous storylines, and Infurnari’s sketchy style complements the shifts so very well. There’s danger lurking around the corner, however: I can see a heavy hand hovering over future pages–one ready to abuse the abuse angle. Oh, if that happens, I’m going to say, “No!”; then I’m going to go and tell someone I trust.
Magnus : Robot Fighter #3 (Dynamite): Van Lente’s made Magnus work for me.
Ordinary #1 (Titan): Sounds fun enough. I’ve liked Royals: Masters of War enough to give Rob Williams another shot. Plus, Titan’s offered up some pretty solid books–including Death Sentence and Numbercruncher, which has been nominated for the 2014 Innie for Best Limited Series and has, in part, earned Si Spurrier (also considered for his work on BOOM!’s Six-Gun Gorilla) a nomination for Best Writer.
Solar: Man of the Atom #2 (Dynamite): Still haven’t read #1. Not sure if I care enough, if I’m being fair.
Translucid #2 (BOOM!): Lots of good things going on in #1. Lovely, lovely layers delivered by Claudio Sanchez, Chondra Echert (writers/creators), Daniel Bayliss (artist, who reminds of Jeff Stokely, who just so happens to be the cover artist!), and Adam Metcalfe (colorist). Has got me thinking Six-Gun Gorilla, which is a good thing.
Translucid #2
Unity #7 (Valiant): I was going to pull the plug after #5, but #6 ended up in my bag because I had forgotten to purge it from my pull list. And then Kindt had to go all Mind MGMT with Dr. Silk’s virus. So, yeah, seven.
X-O Manowar #25 (Valiant): It’s no secret: big events usually turn me off. Preludes to big events usually piss me off. In the case of #24, however, I was actually pleasantly surprised. Who knew I’d be looking forward to Armor Hunters?
Posted by ScottNerd in Uncategorized, What's I&N Store?
Al Ewing, Alan Moore, Alex + Ada, Archer & Armstrong, Astro City, Avatar, Batman Eternal, BOOM!, Brian Hurtt, Caliban, Clone, Cullen Bunn, Cyclops, Dark Horse, David Schulner, DC, DC Comics, Declan Shalvey, Ed Brubaker, Facundo Percio, Fatale, Fred Van Lente, Garth Ennis, Greg Rucka, Howard Chaykin, Image, Iron Fist: The Living Weapon, James Tynion IV, Jonathan Luna, Joshua Williamson, Juan Jose Ryp, Kaare Andrews, Kurt Busiek, Kurtis J. Wiebe, Loki: Agent of Asgard, Magneto, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Miracleman, Moon Knight, Nailbiter, Oni Press, Rat Queens, Roc Upchurch, Sarah Vaughn, Satellite Sam, Scott Snyder, Sean Murphy, Sean Phillips, The Sixth Gun, The Woods, Valiant, Veil, Vertigo, Warren Ellis
Busy? Bah! I’ve got a list to compile!
Veil #3 (Dark Horse): The ante has been upped–and so has my interest in the book. It ain’t Lazarus, folks, but it ain’t bad: Greg Rucka’s going full Fatale, and Toni Fejzula’s art is pretty striking.
Veil #3
Astro City #12 (DC/Vertigo): The follow-up to a terrific #11, which you’ll see highlighted in a celebratory post in the not-so-distant future.
Batman Eternal #5 (DC): Into my second month of Gotham-centered gobbledygook. #4 offered up plenty of reasons to jump off–including an awful conversation between Batman and Batgirl. I mean, who talks like that?
The Wake #8 (DC/Vertigo): Ah, a rare double dose of Scott Snyder. I was disappointed with #7: it didn’t quite sell what #6 so emphatically offered. By and by, I buy.
Alex + Ada #6 (Image): Nothing artificial about this intelligent little tale from Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn. Ada’s awake–let the nightmare begin!
Clone #16 (Image): #15 is a bit lost on me, but that’s OK; Clone‘s been a fun ride.
Fatale #22 (Image): No surprise here: Fatale has been nominated for an Innie in the Best Ongoing Series category! #21 didn’t quite capture the same magic as #20–our #2 book of February–but is was still pretty darned good. Hey: Brubaker and Phillips are competing against themselves–the ridiculously high standard they’ve set for themselves over the life of this brilliant book. Hmm… Would that be a fatal strength?
Nailbiter #1 (Image): I haven’t been taken by anything I’ve read from Joshua Williamson. But I’ll take this one home, thank you very much. It’s a #1 thing.
Rat Queens #6 (Image): Violently vivacious vermin with a bit o’ the ol’ va-va-voom. Queen me!
Satellite Sam #8 (Image): Hawkeye is very good. Sex Criminals is more overrated than x-rated. Satellite Sam, however, is proving to be Fraction’s flagship. Doesn’t hurt that Howard Chaykin’s black and white art is out of this world.
Cyclops #1 (Marvel): Greg Rucka–nominated for an Innie in the Best Writer category for his work on Lazarus–returns to the hot half of the Big Two and takes on one of my all-time favorite characters. Even though we’re going to be spinning ’round in space, I’m still pretty psyched.
Cyclops #1
Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #2 (Marvel): Writer/artist Kaare Andrews impressed with an engaging #1. Highlight: his building of Danny’s backstory. Let’s see what he does with Danny’s frontstory.
Loki: Agent of Asgard #4 (Marvel): Al Ewing’s having fun and so am I; so I’m still buying.
Magneto #3 (Marvel): I really liked what Cullen Bunn did in #2: he crafted a tight, emotionally affecting story from the past and cradled it expertly with a tense present.
Magneto #3
Miracleman #5 (Marvel): So, so good. What have we learned after four issues? Alan Moore’s the real Miracleman.
Moon Knight #3 (Marvel): Warren Ellis and Declan Shalvey delivered a kill-shot–one after another–with #2. If you–yeah, you–didn’t pick it up, do yourself a favor and grab it and #3 while you’re at it.
Archer & Armstrong #20 (Valiant): Two words: new arc. Thank Van Lente.
Archer & Armstrong #20
Caliban #2 (Avatar): The first one was good enough to give this one a go. Liked it more than I liked Pariah and the space side of Letter 44, if that tells you anything. I’m not too sure that tells me anything.
The Sixth Gun #40 (Oni Press): As solid–and consistent–an ongoing as you’re bound to find. That’s right: no peaks and valleys here: Bunn and Hurtt are brilliant from one issue to the next.
The Woods #1 (BOOM!): James Tynion IV goes original with some otherworldly horror. Talk about field trips!
The Woods #1