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Aspen Comics Solicitation for July 2014

April 7, 2014, 11:26 pm
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Damsels in Excess #1
DAMSELS IN EXCESS #1
Vince Hernandez – Story / Mirka Andolfo – Art

Five realms. Five princesses. Zero men.

In the land of the Five Realms, the existence of men has long since been evaporated from the hearts and minds of women. Princess Bethany--ruler of Evanfar, the largest and most prominent kingdom, finds herself at the center of a vast conspiracy that could not only threaten her kingdom—but also her life! Journey to a place where magic is abundant, unicorns and ferrets can command armies, and five women struggle to find balance—and power--in an ever-changing fairy tale world!

Creator Vince Hernandez and artist Mirka Andolfo present to you the newest Aspen hit series – DAMSELS IN EXCESS!

DAMSELS IN EXCESS #1 is in stores July 23rd, 2014!

FC32 pages$3.99 (3.99 digital)




Soulfire Annual #1
SOULFIRE ANNUAL #1
JT Krul, Agnes Garbowska, Mark Roslan - Story
Agnes Garbowska, Lori Hanson - art

Michael Turner’s SOULFIRE returns!

Aspen's first ever SOULFIRE ANNUAL arrives, jam-packed with three all new stories featuring some of the most popular characters in the SOULFIRE universe—and more! Join veteran SOULFIRE writer JT Krul as he presents a young Grace in a world long forgotten, full or dragons and danger! Fan favorite illustrator Agnes Garbowska debuts a new SOULFIRE story all her own, as she handles the writing and art duties in a special tale featuring Grace and several other SOULFIRE favorites! And BubbleGun creator Mark Roslan explodes onto the scene with a futuristic bank robbery that even the magic of Malakai may not be able to stop!

Don’t miss out on the debut of the first ever SOULFIRE ANNUAL #1 in this thrilling oversized issue featuring a re-mastered SOULFIRE cover by series creator Michael Turner and Peter Steigerwald!

SOULFIRE ANNUAL #1 is in stores July 9th, 2014!

FC48 pages$5.99 (5.99 digital)



Soulfire TPB vol 2
SOULFIRE (vol 2) TPB: DRAGON FALL
J.T. Krul – Story / Marcus To – Art / Beth Sotelo - Colors

The epic second volume of Michael Turner’s SOULFIRE!

The Dark Lord Rainier has been defeated, and Malikai—the Samusara, set forth the return of the light. Yet, the return of magic has created problems across the globe, as Grace attempts to bring order to a world devoid of magic for thousands of years. Meanwhile, Rainier, in his endless crusade to rid the world of magic and all that it encompasses, decides the only way to extinguish the light is by fusing both technology and magic in horrific fashion—with terrifying results! Collecting together the sold out Zero issue, as well as issues #1 though #9, plus the rare 10-page Sonia story from Aspen Seasons Winter and the 20-page ‘Resurgence’ story previously only available in the Soulfire: New World Order mini-series, this is 296 pages of everything Soulfire volume 2! And if that’s not enough, we’ll be including a complete covers gallery featuring artwork by such artistic forces as Joe Benitez, Randy Green, Nick Bradshaw and Soulfire creator Michael Turner!! This complete SOULFIRE (vol 2) TPB: DRAGON FALL is a must for any Aspen, Soulfire, Michael Turner, or comic book fan!

SOULFIRE (vol 2) TPB: DRAGON FALL is in stores July 9th, 2014!

FC296 pages$29.99TPB



Soulfire TPB Vol 1
SOULFIRE: SHADOW MAGIC Vol 1 TPB
Vince Hernandez – Story / Sana Takeda – Art & Colors

The world of magic has gone dark…

Before the return of the light forever altered the events of the present SOULFIRE universe, a long ago era of flourishing magic enveloped the land as well as SOULFIRE’s preeminent heroine, Grace. Amidst a bloody war between the two dominant races, the Rahtumi and the Sethoru, that endangered both of their existences, an even greater threat soon emerged. It is a malevolent form of magic that threatens to cast a dark shadow over all that is decent and magical by consuming everything in it’s path. And through all of this perilous disorder, Grace attempts to overcome the greatest obstacle she has yet to encounter in her time in Empyrea—the bonds of love. Collecting together the entire sold out SOULFIRE: SHADOW MAGIC mini-series, and fully illustrated by Sana Takeda, this long-awaited trade paperback is a must have addition to everyone’s SOULFIRE collection!

SOULFIRE: SHADOW MAGIC Vol 1 TPB is in stores July 9th, 2014!

FC152 pages$14.99



JIRNI #3
JIRNI vol 2 #3
JT Krul – Story / Paolo Pantalena – Art / Brett Smith - Colors

From the depths they ascend…

As Ara continues her voyage across the seas, she comes to discover more about her guide - Captain Boro. Yet, any bonding between the pair is interrupted when an ancient evil rises from the depths, intent on destroying them all! Boro's men have heard many tales of the fabled mermaids, but when it comes to legends, sometimes the truth is far more terrifying than the myth!

JIRNI vol 2 #3 is in stores July 30th, 2014!

FC32 pages$3.99 (3.99 digital)



Lolca XOXO #4
LOLA XOXO #4
Siya Oum – Story & Art

Aspen’s newest hit series continues!

The Wasteland Trading Company arrives in the town on Sinmora, where they find their fair share of alcohol and debauchery to satisfy their thirst for action. However, as is often the case in the Wasteland, they bite off more than they can chew, as they learn of a place that no merchant has yet to return from alive, a mysterious site that piques Lola’s curiosity—even if the risk of exploration could mean her life!

One of 2014’s most exciting debuts, LOLA XOXO is ready to take you on an incredible adventure unlike any other!

LOLA XOXO #4 is in stores July 16th, 2014!

FC32 pages$3.99 (3.99 digital)


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Review: Papa

April 13, 2014, 5:37 am
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Papa is a collection of 3 short stories written by Vera Greentea. Each of them having a different theme and artist.

In this collection you get:

  • PAPA, a story about a man that spends his days obsessing with a superhero and ends up neglecting his kid and wife. One day his kid finds that superhero dead.
  •  The Princess and the Robot, when the King of Arr is faced with the decision of saving his kingdom or his daughter he gets creative.
  • Nightbirds, a man searches the path to heaven, not in a spiritual sense, but in the a literal way.



This Kickstarter founded project is all about shock deliveries. For the most part it works well enough, but by the last story you're already expecting it and its looses most of the shock value.

Papa
Regardless of that, all three stories are good shorts. Each has a different theme but there is an obsession under-theme to them. In Papa its about the father's obsession with the dead superhero and in Nightbirds its about a man's obsession with finding heaven. In The Princess and the Robot the obsession under-theme seems not to be present, instead its all about love and choices.

The Princess and the Robot

All stories have a different artist and a different art style, however they are all great in their own styles. I prefer the art of Lizzy John (Nightbirds) but its a personal preference, because all three artists (Joseph Lacroix, Ben Jelter and Lizzy John) do a great job bringing to life Vera's creations.

Nightnirds

I liked it. Its not a perfect book, but its interesting enough to have me read it several times since I got it.

You can grab yourself a copy of this cool book at the Greentea Publishing site.

Publisher: Greentea Publishing
Year: 2013
Pages: 56
Authors: Vera Greentea, Joseph Lacroix, Ben Jelter, Lizzy John
ISBN: 9780983163060

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Aspen Comics Wonder Con 2014 Schedule of Events, Creator Appearances and Massive Comics Giveaway

April 14, 2014, 1:56 pm
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Kiani
Hot off the heels of their all-new series launch of Lola XOXO last week, Aspen Comics is gearing up for creator appearances, signings and more events scheduled for this weekend’s WonderCon 2014. Aspen creators Frank Mastromauro (Overtaken), Peter Steigerwald (The Zoo Hunters), Vince Hernandez (Fathom: Kiani), Mark Roslan (BubbleGun), Siya Oum (Lola XOXO), J.T. Krul (Soulfire), Nei Ruffino (Soulfire), David Wohl (Fathom), Ale Garza (Fathom), and Oliver Nome (Fathom: Kiani) will be appearing throughout the weekend at the Aspen Comics Booth #601.

The publisher will be offering two new comic exclusive releases at their booth this weekend, Lola XOXO #1 (Limited to 500 copies) and Fathom: Kiani #1 (Limited to 200 copies), both of which feature WonderCon 2014 exclusive covers by Siya Oum. Fans can get their copies signed by Oum at the Aspen Comics Booth #601.



Aspen will also be offering a new set of their industry-leading art prints featuring popular, recent cover art by Michael Turner, Siya Oum and Eric “Ebas” Basaldua. Each print is hand-numbered and highly limited.

Fans that visit the Aspen Comics Booth #601 throughout the weekend will also be treated to the publisher’s largest-ever free giveaway, featuring over 25,000 free comics over the course of the con weekend.

On Saturday, Aspen creators will be appearing in the Official Aspen Comics Panel 2014 in Room 208 at 2:30pm to reveal looks at their upcoming new titles including Lola XOXO, Jirni Volume 2, Damsels in Excess, The Zoo Hunters and more. All fans in attendance will receive a free gift courtesy of Aspen Comics, following a special one-on-one Q&A with fans.

Also, on Saturday from 4-5pm, the publisher will be hosting a special “Free Sketch Hour” for fans featuring popular Aspen cover artists Ale Garza and Oliver Nome. Aspen encourages fans to arrive early, as this event will be first come-first serve only.

Editor-in-Chief Vince Hernandez will be holding the Aspen Comics Portfolio Reviews in Room 206B from 1:30-2:30 on all three days of the con, and Aspen strongly encourages those looking to get reviewed to arrive, early as spots are limited to one hour.

For more information please check www.aspencomics.com


Fathom
LOLA XOXO


LOLA XOXO
All New Soulfire 



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Review: NARGGS's New Family

April 16, 2014, 10:49 am
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NARGGS's New Family is yet another Kickstarter funded project that came to life.

This is not the kind of book I usually read, but their Kickstarter pitch was so personal and emotional that I had to pitch in and help this come to life. If I remember correctly it was a difficult project to fund, but eventually it got there.

Jim and Tyler Kirkham are the authors of this children's book. Tyler you might know from his work in mainstream comics.



Wizard's home
NARGG's New Family first stated as The Family Troll. Jill and Tyler then decided that The Family Troll could be associated with Internet trolling and change the name. I liked the first name, it made sense and this being a children's story I can't see that happening. Of course its their decision, but maybe they're spending way too much time on the "wrong" (if there is such thing) side on the Internet.

The family
The story is very simple, as in most children's books, and it tells the tale of a young couple that wants to have children but is unable to, so they adopt a baby troll.

Even if the theme is very adult, the story is told in such a way that the younglings will be able to follow and enjoy it very much.

The art in the book is very good and Tyler did a great job in drawing the book in a kid friendly style. Also the book is printed in a format similar to the European standard, with helps the art to stand out even more, due to the size of the pages.


Publisher: Overcast Studios
Year: 2013
Pages: 28
Authors: Tyler Kirkham, Jill Kirkham
ISBN: 97809891284007

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Next on RGN #11

April 19, 2014, 3:38 pm
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Happy Easter
Lately I've cut down on my reading considerably. This is due to several reasons, but what this means is that I reduced my buy list to those books that really resonate with me, entertain and help me have a good time reading them.

Sure there's no way to know if a book is good before reading it, but I'm keeping to the series that have proven themselves and reduced my budget for new things.

Anyway, Happy Easter everyone and these are the books I currently have on my reading pile and will review in the next weeks.



The Goon Volume 3
The Goon Volume 4


The Goon Volume 5
Transmetropolitan Vol 5



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Aspen Tour Continues At Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo

April 23, 2014, 5:07 am
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Lola XOXO
Aspen Comics’ 2014 con tour season continues at this weekend’s Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo from April 24-27th. The publisher’s booth #904 will feature creators Siya Oum (Lola XOXO), Peter Steigerwald (The Zoo Hunters), Frank Mastromauro (Shrugged, Overtaken) and Paolo Pantalena (Jirni), as well as a host of con-exclusive items.

Lola XOXO debuted on April 9th, and Aspen will be offering a special Lola XOXO #1 Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo 2014 exclusive cover by series creator and illustrator Siya Oum, limited to 500 copies. Fans are encouraged to get their copies signed by Oum in person, as she will be appearing exclusively at the Aspen Booth #904 throughout the weekend.



Aspen will also be releasing a new series of their industry-leading art prints featuring new and popular cover images from Lola XOXO and Fathom: Kiani by Oum and Pantalena. Limited quantities of all con exclusives will also be available starting this weekend on the AspenStore.com.

For more information please check www.aspencomics.com.

Kiani

Lola XOXO

Lola XOXO




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Chaos! #1 Cover is Ready to be Unleashed

May 8, 2014, 11:32 pm
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Chaos #1
Fremont, OH:  Chaos! comics fans can expect to be blown away by an all-new Chaos! #1 exclusive cover through a special arrangement between Dynamite Entertainment, Andy Smith, and Rupp’s Comics.

The original, unused cover art of Tim Vigil has been patiently biding its time within the private collection of Andy Smith for more than a decade.  As Dynamite Entertainment revived the Chaos series earlier this year, the time has come for this cover to finally captivate all Chaos and Vigil collectors everywhere.

Vigil’s heart-stopping art has been fully realized with the rich and haunting colors of Aspen Comics’ Peter Steigerwald.

The rare, exclusive cover will be released to the masses of Chaos! fans on May 7, 2014.


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Aspen August 2014 Solicitation

May 22, 2014, 11:31 pm
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Damsels in Execess #2
DAMSELS IN EXCESS #2
Vince Hernandez – Story / Mirka Andolfo – Art

Five realms. Five princesses. Zero men.

As the remaining ladies turn on Bethany following the reveal of the men’s final wish, the princess finds herself alone in the Five Realms with everyone out to murder her. Yet, not all citizens—and rulers—of the Five believe in following the pleas of a dying gender, as she will discover. However, first, she must find a way to escape Crossman’s Hall before Barra’s soldiers can end her reign—and her life!

Creator Vince Hernandez and artist Mirka Andolfo present to you the newest Aspen hit series – DAMSELS IN EXCESS!

DAMSELS IN EXCESS #2 is in stores August 20th, 2014!




Lola XOXO #5
LOLA XOXO #5
Siya Oum – Story & Art

Aspen’s newest hit series continues!

Conrad arrives in Sinmora, and is shocked to find out that Lola’s life may be in danger. Meanwhile, a weakened and bloodied Wasteland Trading Co. finally find solace in a small town that may prove hopeful for a post-apocalyptic future ahead. However, Lola soon realizes that looks can be deceiving, and nothing is as it seems in the Wasteland—and this mistake could be her last!

One of 2014’s most exciting debuts, LOLA XOXO is ready to take you on an incredible adventure unlike any other!

LOLA XOXO #5 is in stores August 27th, 2014!



Fathom TPB
FATHOM: KILLIANS TIDE TPB
Michael Turner ; Bill O’Neil ; Vince Hernandez– Story / Talent Caldwell ; Ryan Odagawa – Pencils / Jason Gorder – Inks / Colors – Avalon ; Steigerwald ; Starr

Discover the treacherous origin of Killian, Fathom’s original villain—turned—Elite Commander of the Blue! Years before the events of Fathom Volume 1 and his failed attempt to convert Aspen Matthews, a much younger Killian learned the true nature of rebelling against the Blue’s resident Elite Council, as well as what it takes to motivate others to his cause—including his lover and future wife, Anya. However, the youthful dissident soon realizes the tremendous cost of such insolence—and the bloody sacrifice that follows! Including the sold out Killians Tide mini-series and the one-shot follow-up to this acclaimed story arc, “Killian’s Vessel,” this is a must-have for any Fathom fan!

FATHOM: KILLIANS TIDE TPB is in stores August 13th, 2014!



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Transmetropolitan'o'ton #5

June 11, 2014, 2:15 pm
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Spider Jerusalem and his filthy assistants are back in this fifth rendition of Spider's journalistic saga in The City.

Lonely City could very well be two different books. One that gives a little and rare insight of Spider's childhood and his thoughts on society and the City. The other depicts Warren Ellis's love (or lack thereof) for the established power and authority.

In Here to Go (first story) Spider reminisces about his first encounter with death and how it changed his perception of his hero at the time. Its a fun story with over the top characterization that lifts your spirit (only to have it shattered in the last half of the book).




Good Morning
After that you have 21 Days in the City. This is not a story per se, but a compilation of one page images with Spider's take on society. While this does not advance the story, it gives a nice insight at Spider's mind (the nice side).

But its Lonely City that steals the show. The last story of this TPB is what you'll remember at the end of the day. Its a harsh tale about police abuse of authority, corrupt government and the consequences of screwing with them. When Spider gets involved in the investigation of a hate crime that the City Police Department is trying to make go away, things take a bad turn for the worst.

For the first time Spider gets scared, truly frightened. And with good reason. In the end the Smiler draws first blood, and Spider's world will be left upside down.

The Rain

I've not read a comic in a couple of months. Somehow lost interest in them. But there's nothing like a great comic to get the fire going again.


Publisher: Vertigo
Year: 2009
Pages: 144
Authors: Warren Ellis, Darick Robertson
ISBN: 1401228194

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Preview: FATHOM ANNUAL #1

June 13, 2014, 2:48 pm
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FATHOM ANNUAL #1

David Wohl, Nei Ruffino, Vince Hernandez – Story
Dennis Calero, Nei Ruffino, Jordan Gunderson – Art


Michael Turner’s FATHOM returns!

Aspen's first ever FATHOM ANNUAL arrives, jam-packed with three all new stories featuring some of the most popular characters in the Fathom universe—and more! Join veteran FATHOM writer David Wohl as he gives us an inside look at Aspen's former love interest, Chance Calloway, and his thrilling exploits away from her, as he adapts to a whole new world of Blue and Human cooperation! Fan favorite illustrator Nei Ruffino debuts a new FATHOM story all her own, as she handles the writing and art duties in a special tale featuring Aspen Matthews and her new close friend Judith! And Fathom: Kiani writer Vince Hernandez takes Aspen Matthews on a journey to discover a lost city hidden deep under the surface of the water, only what she discovers instead is far more shocking!



Don’t miss out on the debut of the first ever FATHOM ANNUAL #1 in this thrilling oversized issue featuring a re-mastered FATHOM cover by series creator Michael Turner and Peter Steigerwald!


FATHOM ANNUAL #1 is in stores June 18th, 2014!

Preview Page 1
Preview Page 2

Preview Page 3



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Preview: LOLA XOXO #3

June 30, 2014, 2:12 pm
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Siya Oum – Story & Art

Aspen’s newest hit series continues!

Lola departs on her first trading route, leaving the confines of New York City along with the Wasteland Trading Company. However, the perils that exist on the road can prove to be even worse than the city—and deadly . Meanwhile, Conrad decides to take matters into his own hands and find a way to go after Lola—at all costs!



One of 2014’s most exciting debuts, LOLA XOXO is ready to take you on an incredible adventure unlike any other!

LOLA XOXO #3 is in stores July 9th, 2014!

Preview Page 1
Preview Page 2


Preview Page 3
Cover B


Cover C
Cover D


Cover E

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Review: The Goon Volume 3 Heaps of Ruination

July 20, 2014, 3:13 pm
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Heaps of Ruination brings us giant ape Goon, The Buzzard, Lagarto, sexy vampire lady, Frankie knifing something in the eye, Hellboy and more.

This volume is a strange, but engaging, compilations of stories. They range from an awkwardly silly 2 page short about a simpleton crapping his pants to old school sci-fi monsters fighting Godzilla style to tormented soul and bleeding heart drama.

Apart from the return of The Buzzard, this volume doesn't advance the story of the Goon, nor does it give you any further insight into its characters. What it does bring is an entertaining group of stories. My favorite is the Hellboy crossover.



I love crossovers that tell a good story and manage to respect the spirit of the characters involved. Eric Powell wrote one of those crossovers. Hellboys keeps all his moodiness and badassery while Frankie remains an obnoxious little prick that just wants to stab people in the eye.

There is some somewhat smart humor and some very cheap shots. But in the end its a fun and funny book. You might feel a bit guilty after laughing at some of Powell's twisted jokes, bit it will be worth it.

Getting a message across
In sum, good book that introduces a few secondary characters, sees the return of others and a kickass crossover.

Publisher: Dark Horse
Year: 2011
Pages: 128
Authors: Eric Powell
ISBN: 1595826254

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Aspen Comics Solicitations for November 2014

August 15, 2014, 6:27 am
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Zoohunters #2
THE ZOOHUNTERS #2
Peter Steigerwald – Story / Peter Steigerwald – Art

There IS life on other planets—THEY find it.

Abros has been teaching his son Ty the skills it takes to be a ZooHunter when on a far frozen planet they are ambushed by the rogue ZooHunter Minalara! What menace does her appearance spell for our duo? Read issue two to find out!

Creator and artist Peter Steigerwald presents to you the newest Aspen hit series – THE ZOOHUNTERS!

THE ZOOHUNTERS #2 is in stores November 26th, 2014!

FC32 pages$3.99




Damsels in Excess #5
DAMSELS IN EXCESS #5
Vince Hernandez – Story / Mirka Andolfo – Art

Five realms. Five princesses. Zero men.

The war for Evanfar begins as Bethany and Kimberlein make the decision to take back the kingdom by force—even if it means destroying the union of the Five Realms forever! The climactic—and deadly--end to the first volume will forever change the lives of all the princesses forever!

DAMSELS IN EXCESS #5 is in stores November 19th, 2014!

FC32 pages$3.99



Seven to Die
SEVEN TO DIE 
T. G. Roberts – Writer

SEVEN TO DIE tells the story of Lex MacArthur, a San Francisco college student who comes into possession of an enigmatic clay pendant that unlocks a bevy of dormant superhuman genes. She’s stronger, she’s faster, and she’s on a mission to find out why. As Lex sets out to discover who she is and where she really came from, she comes face-to-face with Egil, a killer who has been tracking Lex her entire life.  At the helm of an enormous operation to eradicate all of Lex’s kind, Egil captures Lex’s long-lost mother, forcing Lex to confront him head on and save those she loves from certain death.

Aspen Novels continues its genre-spanning adventure into the prose world with this latest young adult, urban fantasy thriller that is an edge-of-your-seat page turner!

SEVEN TO DIE is in stores November 5th, 2014!

B&W 320 pages$7.99NOVEL



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Review: The Goon Volume 4 Virtue and the Grim Consequences Thereof

September 1, 2014, 2:30 am
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The Goon in Virtue and the Grim Consequences Thereof is a weird mixed of issue long stories. From that time when the Goon, together with a bunch of his fellow criminal friends, started a pro football team, to a journey into another dimension this book has it all.

Unfortunately, unlike previous volumes, not all weirdness is good weirdness.

The Goon doesn't follow a conventional story telling style, true, but there is usually an order to the Chaos that is put to paper by Powell. However in this volume there are a few stories that break that order and add even more chaos, but in a less than optimal way. I'm not saying this is a bad book, far from it, but Powell has been spoiling his readers with stellar story telling and fun comic books, and this one is just a bit above ok.


The Goon getting drafted
Personally I didn't connect with two stories in this collection, the one about the football team and the adaptation of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol. The first one is just and atypical story for this book, its not funny nor it contributes to the overall mythos of the characters (at least thus far), while the second one add little no nothing new to the myriad of adaptations done of the A Christmas Carol. There is nothing wrong with them, but they're not Goonish enough (whatever that may be).

However there is a strong reason to get this book, and that is everything else. Doctor Alloy goes insane and the Goon and our favorite eye stabber jump to his aid. Of course things don't go accourding to plan and the Goon's world is turn inside out. All this plus Powell's twisted humor and awesome artistic style.

Talking about the art of the book, its really good. Powell manages to give each story its unique feel while at
the same time keeping it consistent and true to the Goon style. Sometimes he does it through a different color pallet, sometimes ist by the way he draws faces. Its subtle changes that work really well.

Frankie of Christmas Present
In sum, half is great, half is meh. It's still worth your money, but it doesn't hit the awesomeness that are the previous volumes.


Publisher: Dark Horse
Year: 2010
Pages: 144
Authors: Eric Powell
ISBN: 1595826173

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Transmetropolitan'o'ton #6

September 3, 2014, 6:38 am
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Spider gets turned into a porno, a cartoon, an action flick and gets really high. He also kicks a cat, kills a puppy, punches a reporter, headbutts a poor excuse for a human being, eats a pigeon, exposes a pedophile and steps on a pimp. In 2000 comics were still fun.

Apart from the silliness and the ultra-violence, in this volume shit gets real again. Spider prepares the troops (Filthy Assistants) to take on the Smiler once and for all. Last time The Smiler won the battle. Spider was ill prepared and got out witted by the insane president. This time Spider won't let it happen.


Have you ever picked up a camera and walked down the street just taking pictures and observing your city? The Walk is about that, taking the time to observe and take in your city. In it Spider walks around The City observing the conditions in with its citizens live in, the practical effect of the corrupt government, the rotten police department and the way the people see him. Its a great little insight to Spider's mind and motivation. Transmetropolitan is abundant in these type of short stories that make for good reading and greatly built up characterization adding layers of complexity to Spider and his Filthy Assistants.

To end the first half of the book there's a story about the toll that the current situation is having on Yelena's and Channon's life. The girls (self proclaimed) day off quickly does a dark turn when they feel the need to arm themselves. Also, if you didn't get that by now, its evident that Yelena is slowly transforming into a female version of Spider.

All in due time Spider
In the last half of the book, the story is put into high gear and takes off. The pace fastens, the action gets brutal and the shit hits the proverbial fan. The Smiler takes one on the shin and Spider starts to unveil the full extent of the problem that is The Smiler. Our favorite journalist's easy and luxurious life is about to end.

Transmetropolian belong to a rare breed of books that can withstand the passing of time and starts strong and gets better as the story progresses.


Publisher: Vertigo
Year: 2010
Pages: 144
Authors: Warren Ellis, Darick Robertson
ISBN: 1401228186

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Review: Black Science Volume 1 How to Fall Forever

September 4, 2014, 9:02 am
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Rick Remender is back to writing (hopefully) sci-fi greatness with his new book Black Science. He is most known for his creator-owned series Fear Agent (BTW, if you haven't read this, you're missing out on a great sci-fi series), and he as a new book that also dwell in the sci-fi pool.

Black Science (poorly chosen name BTW) is about this guy that invents a way to jump around dimensions and things (of course) go south really fast. In fact, the best way to explain what this is about is to talk about Quantum Leap (remember that kids?! If not go see it now). This is basically Quantum Leap with Dimensional jumps instead of time ones and punches and ray guns. Its starts with a experiment with dimensional jumping and end up stranded with no way to know where they'll end up (sounds familiar?).


What is Black Science after all? I have no ideia. As far as I know the title was an excuse for the main character to say something that Reminder though was cool (I guess). Its never explained nor does it have any impact in the story. It could very well be named Bureau of Dimensional Quantum Leap (much better title).

Sadly Rememder doesn't deliver the goods as he once did. Black Science is a cool book, but nothing compared with some of his former creations (Fear Agent for one). The plot, while interesting (Quantum Leap was the bomb back in the day), is all pace and little substance. The characters are shallow and one dimension, for the most part at least.

Not everything is bad of course, in fact this isn't a bad book, but it could be so much better. Remender has showed in the past that he can produce great books, and the book does get better as it moves forward. One thing in its favor is that it is never boring. Convoluted and shallow perhaps, but never boring. The action keeps poring in, mixed with a pinch of sexy and some ray guns.

Getting high with your floozy
It ends on an old fashion cliffhanger, and that mister Remender was well played because it does leave you wanting more. I'm in for another volume, but it as to get better. I want some flesh on my characters (please).

The art on the other hand is almost flawless. Of course this is highly subjective because if the art style is not to your liking chances are you're not going to give it much credit, but if that's the case, try to look past it. The first few pages are a bit harsh to the eye. Matteo Scalera and Dean White use a style filled with squared jaws, strait lines, steep angles, rough shapes and the occasional Dutch Angle. After those first pages, once you get used to it, its when it really shines. It suits the fast pace and action packed plot very well.

Monkey Business
If they can keep the consistency up and the fill-in artists down, it is an Image book after all, the visual aspect of the book will contribute greatly to its success. Only time will tell, but it is looking good.

So, will this surpass Fear Agent? Lets wait and see, but comparing both series first volume, Fear Agent takes the lead.

Publisher: Image Comics
Year: 2014
Pages: 152
Authors: Rick Remender, Matteo Scalera, Dean White
ISBN: 1607069679

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Preview: ALL NEW FATHOM #8

September 5, 2014, 4:05 am
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ALL NEW FATHOM #8
David Wohl – Story / Alex Konat – Art / Beth Sotelo – Colors

A new direction in the FATHOM Universe reaches its finale!

As Vana's plan nears its apocalyptic fruition, the temperature of the Earth's oceans are plummeting and wreaking havoc with the ecological balance of the world. Nations are in turmoil, and their military might’s are helpless to stop it. Amidst this cataclysmic backdrop, only Aspen Matthews understands what must be done to return the world from the brink of certain doom, but in order to accomplish her goal, she must team up with Chance and KIllian in order to battle with the most powerful being on the planet-- Killian's daughter, Anika!


Writer David Wohl, artist Alex Konat and colorist Beth Sotelo team up once again to bring you the latest adventures of Michael Turner’s most beloved creation!

ALL NEW FATHOM #8 is in stores September 17th, 2014!

Preview Page 1
Preview Page 2


Preview Page 3
Cover B


Cover C
Cover C


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Review: Judge Dredd Day Of Chaos: Fallout

September 9, 2014, 3:41 pm
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I have a strange relationship with Judge Dredd. I love the concept and the characters. More often than not I love the stories. I really enjoy the tone and overall theme, political and social commentary, and the badassery that is Dredd. But (there's always a but) I own (and read) very few Dredd stories.

Why?! Don't know. Probably its a marketing thing (or lack thereof). When I buy a Judge Dredd book I can't put it down until the very last page (usually this is true), but after that I never hear any new news form 2000AD publicizing the next book. This turned into a (first world) problem when I stopped shopping at traditional brick and mortar stores.

The point here is, going into this book, I had no idea what Day of Chaos was. But this books does a good job summering it up for me. An enemy Mega-City (East-Sov) made a (successful) biological attack on Mega-City One. The majority of the population died and Mega-City One is in ruins. And everyone blames Dredd. This is the story of what happens next.

Actually its the stories of what happens next. Each chapter is a different story, with a different creative team. This could be the recipe for disaster, but it works here. 2000AD is used to manage several creative teams for their periodic format, and it shows. Sure there are a few fluctuation both in quality of the art and style of writing, but overall it works well.

In this book you'll get everything from whole blocks declaring independence, rouge judges, deserting cadets,  jealousy driven murder, xenophobia, and much more. Of course all this is seasoned with a (un)healthy dose of the old British ultra-violence we all love so much.

Do it

Dredd and his colleagues face-off against Mega-City One's most foul creeps. What most characterizes Dredd is his unshaken confidence and unbreakable morals. Well, both are put to the test several times, when he is faced with the ruination of his beloved Mega-City One and the degradation of its citizens.

Art wise this book is all over the place. Its easier to set a guideline for the writers to follow than it is to get artistic uniformity. There is one or two chapters where the art is bad(ish), the others is mostly about personal taste. Not much else to say, your eyes won't bleed out, but it could hurt to get a bit more consistency.
The smirk talks volumes
I've yet to buy a book from 2000AD that I didn't though I was getting my money's worth. Sure not all are master pieces, but all (thus far) have been ranging form entertaining to absolute awesome. This one is not on top end, but is almost there. Even if, like me, you haven't read Day of Chaos, this is be one of the most entertaining comics you'll read this year.


Publisher: 2000AD
Year: 2014
Pages: 240
Authors: John Wagner, Rob Williams, Michael Carrol, Robert Williams, Laurence Campbell , PJ Holden, James Harren
ISBN: 1781082715

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Aspen Comics Solicitations for December 2014

September 20, 2014, 2:02 am
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Overtaken #2
OVERTAKEN #2
Frank Mastromauro – Story / Marco Lorenzana – Art / Wes Hartman - Colors

Prepare yourself for the return of - OVERTAKEN!

Picking up from the shocking events of issue #1… after months of dead ends and uncooperative authorities, Will Harden focuses his desperation to find his missing wife and turns to an unlikely source to help locate her…but is it already too late?? As he begins to unravel the truth, Harden will discover that the answers he seeks are far out of this world!

Written and created by Frank Mastromauro, featuring artwork by the talented newcomer Marco Lorenzana, OVERTAKEN is going to take your breath away and leave you gasping for more!

OVERTAKEN #2 is in stores December 17th, 2014!

FC32 pages$3.99





Fathom #1
FATHOM: SOURCEBOOK #1
Michael Turner ; various – Art / Peter Steigerwald ; various – Colors

Your journey into the FATHOM Universe begins here!

Michael Turner's best-selling Fathom series has celebrated over 15 years of thrilling adventures, and now fans and new readers alike can dive even deeper into the depths of the Fathom Universe with Aspen's first-ever FATHOM: SOURCEBOOK! Jam-packed from cover to cover with detailed character profiles, in-depth power charts, revealing story elements and so much more--this is the definitive source to learn about all things Fathom!

FATHOM: SOURCEBOOK #1 is in stores December 10th, 2014!

FC32 pages$4.99


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