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What’s I&N Store (3/5)

05 Wednesday Mar 2014

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Huge week.  And, yes, this counts as narrowing it down.

  • Veil #1 (Dark Horse): Greg Rucka’s killing it with Lazarus and has Cyclops in his sights.  On the strength of the former and in anticipation of the latter, I’m thinking that this one’s a no-brainer.
  • Trillium #7 (DC/Vertigo): Through six issues, Jeff Lemire has insisted that we turn the page on our own expectations.  As excited as I am sad, knowing that–including this one–only two issues of Lemire’s head-spinning layouts are left!
Trillium #7

Trillium #7

Wild Blue Yonder #4

Wild Blue Yonder #4

  • Clone #15 (Image): Clonetopia?  Yeah, probably not.  David Schulner and Co. have made it clear: happy endings end rather quickly in Clone–often after a single page turn.  And what terrific page turns they are: artist Juan Jose Ryp’s attention to detail is astounding–not unlike the great Geof Darrow, no?
  • Jupiter’s Legacy #4 (Image): If I’m remembering correctly, I thought #3 was all right–certainly enough for me to ignore my oath to pass over any Millar material no matter how shiny.  We all know by now that Mark Millar’s not concerned with our experiences as readers of his fine material; he’s too busy generating new ideas like…
  • Starlight #1 (Image): Of course I’m going to give Mr. Millar another opportunity to frustrate the hell out of me.
  • Velvet #4 (Image): Brubaker and Epting are taking their time, doing their thing, which is near-perfect cinematic slow-burn espionage.
Velvet #4

Velvet #4

  • Loki: Agent of Asgard #2 (Marvel): I’ve never been a fan of Thor’s corner of the Marvel Universe.  Al Ewing, however, has convinced me to extend my visit to a tidy right angle.
  • Magneto #1 (Marvel): Cullen Bunn (The Sixth Gun) writing one of my favorite characters?  Yes, please.
  • Moon Knight #1 (Marvel): I was crushed after the most recent–and mostly crazy–run of Moon Knight–by Bendis and Maleev–came to a close.  Now, Warren Ellis and Declan Shalvey are in charge of the lunatic in white.  Can’t wait.
Moon Knight #1

Moon Knight #1

  • Uncanny X-Men #18 (Marvel): Maybe–just maybe–#17 was a hint; maybe it was the nudge I need.  See: at the end of the issue, Cyclops kicks David Bond off the team because the new mutant fails to live up to expectations.  Maybe–just maybe–I should finally cast this book aside because it hasn’t lived up to my expectations.  Then again, Marco Rudy’s art looks ridiculously good.  So, another possibility: Fate has kept me around long enough for this!
  • Afterlife With Archie #4 (Archie): The series has been so good for so many reasons.  In fact, #3 was our #5 book of January–and deservedly so: Roberto Aguirre Sacasa’s storytelling–a brilliant balance of Archie and Afterlife–is top-notch, and Francesco Francavilla’s art is a perfect fit.
Afterlife With Archie #4

Afterlife With Archie #4

  • Archer & Armstrong #18 (Valiant): #17 was a rare sideways step for Fred Van Lente.  It certainly wasn’t what we were hoping for from one of our favorite books of 2013.  Wouldn’t you know: I liked #0.2014 a lot; in fact, it turned out to be one of my favorite origin issues, like, ever.
  • The Auteur #1 (Oni): Game-time decision.  Yeah, not too sure I need another “deranged” book.
  • Day Men #3 (BOOM!): A Millaresque release schedule without–so far, anyway–the Millaresque payoff that, generally, makes it worth the wait.  I’m going to have to pull #2 to bring myself up to speed.  Yeah, that’s always a bummer.
  • Evil Empire #1 (BOOM!): Another game-time decision.  I’m not familiar with Max Bemis or Ransom Getty, so I’ll give it an earnest flip and see what happens.
  • Quantum and Woody: Goat #0 (Valiant): Maa.
Quantum and Woody: Goat #0

Quantum and Woody: Goat #0

  • Rover Red Charlie #4 (Avatar): #3 was…  Oh, I’m going to save it for a future post.
  • The Twilight Zone #3 (Dynamite): Has been surprisingly good.  Certainly Straczynski’s best work–of the current batch, anyway.  The shine, however, was taken off a bit after I read Sidekick #5.  Seems Straczynski’s borrowing from himself–and he sure as heck isn’t being subtle about it!  Sure, I’ve seen creators who have borrowed from themselves, usually from past work, but this is just silly: Sidekick and Twilight Zone are concurrent titles, for goodness sake!  OK.  OK.  Wait a sec.  Is this the Twilight Zone?  Oh, well.  Still want to see how this plays out.
Twilight Zone #3

The Twilight Zone #3

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (2/19)

18 Tuesday Feb 2014

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The only forecast worth a damn:

  • Skyman #2 (Dark Horse): My interest in the book has been ramped up not by #1 so much as learning more about Joshua Hale Fialkov as a writer through his book The Bunker from Oni Press, which came out in print last week.  Yeah, so, suddenly I’m like “Sky’s the limit!” for this one.
  • The White Suits #1 (Dark Horse): The new one from Frank J. Barbiere–writer of the underwhelming Five Ghosts, which I dropped after #2–is described as “violent noir,” which is right up my alley; so I’ll pick it up.
  • Batman and Two-Face #28 (DC): Best Batman of the bunch?  Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason’s Batman, biatch!  OK, so, it’s not Mind MGMT; very few books are.  But it is Batman: it sounds like, looks like, and feels like Batman–and that’s what’s important, isn’t it?  The turn with Two-Face has been a fun one, and it ends here.
Batman and Two-Face #28

Batman and Two-Face #28

  • Wonder Woman #28 (DC): The only New 52 book I’ve been on from the get-go.  Remarkably consistent, drawing more from myth as we go along.  Bring on the Minotaur!
  • A Voice in the Dark #4 (Image): We were lucky enough to receive a preview copy from Larime Taylor a couple of weeks back.  My review–and assessment of the series–can be found here.
  • Alex + Ada #4 (Image): If I had more time, I would’ve written up a Scottlight On post for #3–a very positive Scottlight On post.  I loved it: the dialogue, the absence of dialogue; the composition of balance, the language of juxtaposition; the slow simmer, the tempered tone; the spirit of Asimov, the sword of Damocles.  Very much looking forward to what Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn have programmed for us this time around.
Alex + Ada #4

Alex + Ada #4

  • Avengers World #3 (Marvel): Certainly isn’t a must read, but hasn’t been bad.  Certainly worth another issue.
  • Daredevil #36 (Marvel): The end–for now.  We know where it’s going from here, yet I wonder where it’s going from here.  From Hell’s Kitchen to Hells Angels?  Is DD gonna chill on Devil’s Peak?  Or drink from the Devil’s Punchbowl?
Daredevil #36

Daredevil #36

  • Uncanny X-Men #17 (Marvel): This isn’t a good sign: I don’t really remember what happened in #16.  Then again, maybe it’s the sign I’ve been waiting for all along. Maybe I should just be done with this book once and for all and put my four bucks toward something I won’t whine about every damn month.  Hmm.  Maybe save up for Rucka’s Cyclops book out in May.
  • X-Men #11 (Marvel): I swore after #10 that I was done.  That’s three times after only ten issues!  Sounds about right.
  • Curse #2 (BOOM!): I wasn’t overly impressed with #1.  Figure I’ll give it another shot.
  • Extinction Parade #5 (Avatar): I have an idea: let’s marry Max Brooks’s writing with Alex Maleev’s artwork.  That’d be something!  As it is, this is a tolerable exploration of the relationship between otherwise intolerable vampires and zombies brought to the page in the typical Avatar style.
  • The Midas Flesh #3 (BOOM!): #2 was one of our Top 5 Books of January!  Our needle’s pointing due Ryan North!
The Midas Flesh #3

The Midas Flesh #3

  • Quantum and Woody #8 (Valiant): James Asmus is keeping it crazy in his little corner of the Valiant Universe.  Always good for a laugh.
  • Unity #4 (Valiant): Outside of Mind MGMT, this is where Matt Kindt’s clearly most comfortable.  And with Kindt’s Rai reboot on the way, we’ll see just how comfortable.  Makes all the sense in the world that Valiant would be the best fit for him: he gets to remodel the house instead of simply moving the furniture around.

My daughter now expects a “present” every time I come home from the comic store.  Instead of just grabbing something off the shelf willy-nilly, I’m going in with a plan.  I’m calling it…

Avery’s Pick of the Week:

  • Scribblenauts Unmasked: Crisis of Imagination #2 (DC): There’s no doubt about it: Avery loves her superheroes.  While flipping through #1, however, she seemed to like the little villains the most.  I’m in trouble.
Scribblenauts Unmasked: Crisis of Imagination #2

Scribblenauts Unmasked: Crisis of Imagination #2

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (2/5)

04 Tuesday Feb 2014

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My clever introduction has been postponed indefinitely due to snow.

  • Trillium #6 (DC/Vertigo): #5 was flippin’ fantastic.  The balance between the two realities was rendered in a ridiculously meticulous manner.  In many ways, even more impressive than #1 in execution.  Can’t wait to get into this one.
Trillium #6

Trillium #6

  • Lazarus #6 (Image): #5 ended on a naturally disastrous note, one that echoes still, boding a symphony of construction–of resurrection.  Lucky for us, reigning master builders Rucka and Lark are a pair of heavies who always deliver as promised.
  • Sidekick #5 (Image): Engaging enough, though not J. Michael Straczynski’s best monthly.  That distinction goes to…
  • Twilight Zone #2 (Dynamite): #1 was a bit of a revelation, wasn’t it?  Terrific tone–totally Twilight Zone!
Twilight Zone #2

Twilight Zone #2

  • All-New Invaders #2 (Marvel): I’m sure that you’re a lot like me in thinking that it’s got to get better–that James Robinson is a lot better than his cliched riddled initial offering.  Sure, I’m going to try this one; but I’m not going to suffer through growing pains just because I know in my heart it should be good; so, if it doesn’t do it for me here, I’m out.
  • X-Men #10.NOW (Marvel): Another one I’m down on.  The series started off really well.  Brian Wood affected a strong, recognizable voice; in fact, it actually sounded like an X-book, with hints of Claremont, especially in the high notes.  Unfortunately, the “Battle of the Atom” smashed the title’s early momentum, leaving us with scattered neutrons, electrons, and promises.
  • Archer & Armstrong #0.2014 (Valiant): I’m guessing the story of Wee Obie Archer is going to buck the trend of zero-issues having zero value–if only because I expect nothing less from Fred Van Lente and Pere Perez.  Yeah: no throwaway here.
Archer & Armstrong #0.2014

Archer & Armstrong #0.2014

  • Rover Red Charlie #3 (Avatar): #2–like #1–had some really affective moments and some really awful moments.  Not expecting anything different; it’s the nature of the beast, innit?
  • Shadowman #15 (Valiant): Of all the books I get on a monthly basis, this one confounds me the most.  I don’t care a lick about the characters, but for some reason I really like the series.  Doesn’t hurt that Milligan and De La Torre have come together like peanut butter and chocolate.  Dark, dark chocolate.

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (1/29)

26 Sunday Jan 2014

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A light week to round out the month.

  • Furious #1 (Dark Horse): The preview was interesting enough.
  • Dead Boy Detectives #2 (DC/Vertigo): #1 was a revelation.  The narrative–comprised of three distinct voices–was constructed with a breezy brilliance that amplified the complexity of the characters and their conflict yet remained eminently readable.  Equal parts engaging and enraging, this book looks like a real winner in the venerable Vertigo style.
Dead Boy Detectives #2

Dead Boy Detectives #2

  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #30 (IDW): Yup, it’s true: I’m still on board.  Seems I’ve been taken by the Turtles!  As it turns, while Mateus Sanotolouco gave me every reason to jump on board and, with the end of his run, an easy out, Ross Campbell is insisting that I stick around.  Perhaps the real credit should be given to Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz for their consistency, for their ability to elevate expertly an eternal novelty.
  • Clone #14 (Image): #13 was a bit of a backslide, a trip onto the ol’ backside.  Yeah, it didn’t kick my ass; but it all-sorts-of-other-thingsed Luke’s ass.  Yowza.  Too much?  Well, in terms of expectations, David Schulner and the gang sure as hell wrecked ’em.  Let’s hope they’re back on track this month: phallic stage, here we come!
Clone #14

Clone #14

  • East of West #9 (Image): Each issue is delivered in a decidedly deliberate manner, which is an unmistakable hallmark of Jonathan Hickman’s storytelling.  In that, the series has been solid–every issue’s been good; but it still plays like a side project compared to the atomic wedgie Hickman’s been giving to the atomic age in the expertly crafted and explosively funny The Manhattan Projects.
  • Saga #18 (Image): God, I hate Saga!  Lying.
Saga #18

Saga #18

  • Saviors #2 (Image): Not sure how “new” the story felt, but I’m going to give it another shot anyway.  What’s the draw: J. Bone, of course.
  • Inhumanity #2 (Marvel): I’ll flip through it.  The first one–eh, it was a bit of a slog.  The end, however, while predictable in one respect, hinting at cracks in Fraction’s foundation, did have a killer twist, which restored my faith in the writer, who clearly has a Karnak for keeping us on on our toes.
  • Miracleman #2 (Marvel): #1 was my first exposure to the character.  Loved hearing Alan Moore’s voice, that’s for sure.  Didn’t care so much for bonus material, though.  Despite the threat of even more bonus material, I’m up for #2.
  • Uber #9 (Avatar): Of late, has been overshadowed by Gillen’s Spartan effort on the thrilling Three.  Still, Uber‘s been mostly fascinating even with the frequent flow pas.
Uber #9

Uber #9

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (1/15)

14 Tuesday Jan 2014

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And by “narrowing down,” I clearly mean this:

  • Skyman #1 (Dark Horse): It’s on my radar.  Don’t know the character; don’t know the creators–but I do know Dark Horse, our 2013 Publisher of the Year.
  • Astro City #8 (DC/Vertigo): #7 was no small Victory.  It was very, very good.  Bold statement of the week: Kurt Busiek’s the best storyteller in the DC stable.  Is anyone even close?
Astro City #8

Astro City #8

  • Suicide Squad #27 (DC): Kindt has revealed that nothing lasts Forever–including his time on Suicide Squad.  I appreciate what he’s done; but when he’s done, so am I.
  • Indestructible #2 (IDW): There was something interesting–though not nearly indestructible–about the first one.  Leaning toward passing on it.  I mean, look at this list, for goodness sake!  I can’t buy everything, folks!
  • A Voice in the Dark #3 (Image): From Larime Taylor’s mouth to our eyes.  Truly remarkable.  #2 was a compelling ask-questions-first-shoot-later follow-up to a dangerously drawn-out, extra-sized first issue.  Expectations have crept up a notch.
  • Alex + Ada #3 (Image): Most of all, I love the tone of the book.  There’s a sincere tension that’s undeniable–and beautiful.
Alex + Ada #3

Alex + Ada #3

  • Egos #1 (Image): Worth a shot, I suppose.
  • Rat Queens #4 (Image): Every page is infested with rattitude!  Wiebe and Upchurch gleefully give us a mischief of grrls, a swarm of snarky sword swingers doing their very best to make it in a man’s world!  It’s not much more than that, really; but it doesn’t need to be, does it?  Everyone needs a book like this in his or her bag.
  • Velvet #3 (Image): Bit of a slow build, sure, but Brubaker can take all the time he needs; I’ll be right here with him, Steve Epting, and their gorgeously cinematic and super smooth Velvet.
  • All-New X-Men #21 (Marvel): Well, it certainly seems like all of my complaining about the unevenness of Bendis’s writing has finally caught up to me.  OK.  No, it hasn’t.
  • Daredevil #35 (Marvel): Loved #34.  It’s a “best of,” if you think about it: everything that Waid’s done well over the course of the series is played up to some effect in the issue.  I know major changes are on the way; I just hope that Waid’s approach to handling Daredevil’s duality and crafting relationships–through lively dialogue, especially (something Bendis has struggled with on the X-titles)–is not one of them.
Daredevil #35

Daredevil #35

  • Miracleman #1 (Marvel): I have no idea what to expect with this.  I’ve never read any Miracleman–or Marvelman for that matter–but I’m certainly willing to give it a try.  Might take a miracle to keep me around, though.  Seriously: have you seen this list?!
  • Uncanny X-Men #16 (Marvel): As a whole, it’s been more engaging than All-New X-Men.  Yeah, that’s not saying much.
  • Archer & Armstrong #17 (Valiant): One of our Top Ten titles of 2013!  Can’t wait to see what Van Lente and co. have in store for us this year!  If it’s more of the same, all the better!
Archer & Armstrong #17

Archer & Armstrong #17

  • Harbinger #20 (Valiant):  Dysart’s doing with Harbinger what I wish Bendis was doing with his X-books: writing an effin’ solid team book.
  • Unity #3 (Valiant): If I’m being honest, I’m keeping on ’cause of Kindt.  I see more potential here than in any of his Marvel and DC work, which, as a whole, has been pretty blah even as he’s brought his unique narrative style into the mainstream mix.
  • Curse #1 (BOOM!): Another werewolf story?  I hope not.  I mean, Six-Gun Gorilla wasn’t just another gorilla story, was it?  No, not even close.  Time to go BOOM!
Curse #1

Curse #1

  • Imagine Agents #4 (BOOM!): This rounds out the series–which I haven’t started reading yet.  Oops.
  • God Is Dead #5 (Avatar): Definitely on the dropping block.  My interest is mostly dead–especially as Hickman’s participation in the creative process comes to its inevitable end.
  • Rover Red Charlie #2 (Avatar): As I mentioned in a prompt post-read tweet concerning an apocalyptic #1: “some really ruff moments I [couldn’t] seem to shake.”  Poor doggies.  It’s a real man-beat-man world, innit?
  • The Sixth Gun #37 (Oni Press): One of the best monthlies around.  Writing and art of the highest caliber from Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt, respectively.
  • Department of Monsterology #4 (Renegade): A monstrous surprise!  I’ve really enjoyed this series so far.  Sad to see it come to a close.  Gosh, I hope Gordon Rennie and P.J. Holden have something else in store for us!
Department of Monsterology #4

Department of Monsterology #4

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (12/18)

18 Wednesday Dec 2013

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Haven’t had back-to-back weeks like this.  Yowza.

  • Buzzkill #4 (Dark Horse): One of the best minis of the year comes to a close.  No need to crack open a cold one to enjoy what Donny Cates and the crew have brewed up–but it certainly can’t hurt.  In fact, let’s drink to what they’ve accomplished thus far and to the promise of a perfectly choreographed booze-fueled father-son throwdown.
Buzzkill #4

Buzzkill #4

  • Dark Horse Presents #31 (Dark Horse): A hefty price to pay for a sliver of of the sublime Mind MGMT.  Oh, I’ll be paying it, all right!  Just like I paid…for…this…
Mind MGMT #17 pp. 22-23

Mind MGMT #17 pp. 22-23

  • The Massive #18 (Dark Horse): Over the life of The Massive, Brian Wood has put on a clinic in understatement and tension–no single issue more successful than the revealing #17, which put Callum Israel’s hatred for Bors Bergsen in context.  Brilliant.
  • Batman and Two-Face #26 (DC): I’ve said it before; I’ll say it again: despite what you’ve been led to believe, this is the best Batman book going.  Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason deserve far more credit for what they’ve been doing with Batman, particularly post-Robin.
  • Wonder Woman #26 (DC): Still worth my $2.99.  One of the few DC books worth my time.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #29 (IDW): I don’t know, maybe.  I really enjoyed “City Fall”–and not only because of Mateus Santolouco’s artwork, surprisingly enough; so, I’m actually leaning toward yes.  At least a flip-through, right?
TMNT #29

TMNT #29

  • A Voice in the Dark #2 (Image): #1 was mostly tedious, but Taylor has twisted my arm with a pretty terrific plot twist.  I want to–I have to!–see it play out.  Man, it’s the same problem I have when it comes to watching any cop show: if I watch the first two minutes, I’m stuck for the full sixty–even if I’ve never seen an episode of that particular show before.  Such a sucker!
  • Black Science #2 (Image): Surprise!  Remender’s playing with dimensions.  Oh, sorry: Yay!  If I end up buying it, it’ll be definitive proof that I have no self control.
  • East of West #8 (Image): Hickman’s been east of efficient in his storytelling.  That’s not a fault; in fact, I appreciate his frugality–especially considering how much reading I have to do!
  • Mind the Gap #16 (Image): One of my favorites is back with Act II.  I can’t wait to see how McCann and crew outdo themselves.  It’ll be tough, though, especially after the brilliant dueling-artist dual-narrative that closed out Act I.  Highest of expectations.
Mind the Gap #16

Mind the Gap #16

  • Saga #17 (Image): Guaranteed goodness.
  • Ten Grand #6 (Image): Dragged down–waaaaaaay down–by Templesmith’s departure.  More than likely, I’ll pass on it.  Sad, too, because I had finally gotten into it.
  • Zero #4 (Image): An amazing three-issue run to kick off the series.  Yeah, there’s a 0% chance of my missing this one; in fact, I’d give up my left arm for a copy!  Can’t wait to drink up another 24 pages of Ales Kot’s creative juices.
  • All-New X-Men #20 (Marvel): Hey, it is what it is.
  • Daredevil #34 (Marvel): I’m looking forward to the end of the run–just not sure if it’s for the right reasons.
  • X-Men #8 (Marvel): Bringing on the Dodsons was as genius a move as can be.  They’re perfect for this book.  It’s keeping me around, that’s for sure.
X-Men #8

X-Men #8

  • Department of Monsterology #3 (Renegade Arts): I loved #2.  Looking forward to seeing what they’ve got in store for us this time around.
Department of Monsterology #3

Department of Monsterology #3

  • Eternal Warrior #4 (Valiant): So far, so good.
  • The Extinction Parade #4 (Avatar): I’ve been picking it up for my wife.  Yeah, well, she hasn’t read #2 yet.  I’m caught up, though.  Nothing special.
  • Hit #4 (BOOM!): The solid hard-boiled crime drama from Bryce Carlson and Vanesa Del Rey comes to a close.
Hit #4

Hit #4

  • The Midas Flesh #1 (BOOM!): Time for another adventure from Ryan North!  Sounds fun!  I mean, everything he’s touched so far has turned to gold, right?
  • X-O Manowar #20 (Valiant): I was really surprised by–and really liked–Cary Nord’s artwork on #19.  Hoping to get more of the same here.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (12/11)

09 Monday Dec 2013

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Oh, good: another small week.

  • Shaolin Cowboy #3 (Dark Horse): #2 was a wild ride, man, a dizzying display. I’ve never seen anything like it; in that, I really liked it. Geof Darrow’s attention to detail is ri-dic-u-lous. Wasn’t so thrilled with the end, however: seemed to run out of gas before the Cowboy did. I figured we were being set up for something–something more than a pin-up, you know what I mean? I guess we’ll find out what Darrow was hacking and slashing his way to here. Hold on to your head!
Shaolin Cowboy #3

Shaolin Cowboy #3

  • Astro City #7 (DC/Vertigo): One solid story after another from Kurt Busiek and Brent Eric Anderson. Now, it’s time for an extended arc.
  • Suicide Squad #26 (DC): After #24, I was this close from jumping off the bridge, but I decided to give it another issue; and with #25, the suicidally prolific Matt Kindt grabbed me by the collar and yanked me back into the safety of his storytelling.
  • Indestructible #1 (IDW): Sounds interesting enough. Premise has me thinking Thurber’s “The Greatest Man in the World.”
  • Alex + Ada #2 (Image): “Christmas, [girl] in a box. Chanukah, [girl] in a box. Kwanzaa, a [girl] in box. Every single holiday a [girl] in a box.”
Alex + Ada #2

Alex + Ada #2

  • Dead Body Road #1 (Image): I liked what Justin Jordan did on Shadowman. Doesn’t hurt that he’s working with Matteo Scalera, who’s done fine work on Indestructible Hulk and, more recently, Black Science. And, all together now: it’s an Image #1!
  • Lazarus #5 (Image): Love, love, love Lazarus! Can’t beat the creators of this one: Greg Rucka and Michael Lark flood every panel with intense action. So, if you’ve heard about the book but have held off because you missed the boat, now’s your time to jump on board because this issue kicks off a brand new arc. (See what I did there?)
  • Manifest Destiny #2 (Image): We thoroughly enjoyed the first leg of this re-imagined journey with Lewis, Clark, and friends. Picking up #2 is a no-brainer.
  • Satellite Sam #5 (Image): Matt Fraction and Howard Chaykin are bringing sexy back and are making black and white look as colorful as can be all while keeping the answers we want sequestered in the shadows. Teases. Speaking of:
Satellite Sam #5

Satellite Sam #5

  • Three #3 (Image): I think I’m being fair here: I’m giving this one from Kieron Gillen–who’s killing, well, just about everyone in the uber Uber–a third issue.
  • Inhumanity: Awakening #1 (Marvel): I picked up Inhumanity #1 by Fraction and Olivier Coipel. Despite its flaws–and you didn’t have to be Karnak to find them–it was a decent read. A drawn out, but decent read. Now it’s Kindt’s turn.
  • Uncanny X-Men #15 (Marvel): “Special issue”? Uh oh. Seeing “special issue” in a preview for a comic is a lot like seeing “delicious” on a package of gluten-free anything.
  • Archer & Armstrong #16 (Valiant): I’m still drunk on #15! I kinda hope Fred Van Lente writes this forever. Smart, funny, and beautiful… Hey! This book is the perfect woman!
Archer & Armstrong #16

Archer & Armstrong #16

  • Day Men #2 (BOOM!): Wow. Kinda got to thinking that the odds of vampires being real were better than the odds of #2 seeing the light of day. Gonna have to drag #1 out of the ol’ comic coffin and hammer out a new stake in the series.
  • Death Sentence #3 (Titan): I’ve been infected by MontyNero’s G+ premise and his A+ character development. That’s right: I’m invested in three characters–and a series–not long for this world. Damn it! I don’t want to be cured!
  • Deathmatch #12 (BOOM!): The finale to a darn good superhero saga from Paul Jenkins and Carlos Magno. Brilliantly ludicrous and delightfully derivative. If you missed it, make sure you grab a collected edition; it’s well worth your time.
Deathmatch #12

Deathmatch #12

  • Harbinger #19 (Valiant): Every time I think it’s about time to give it up, Joshua Dysart plays some seriously fun mindgames and convinces me to stick around.
  • The Sixth Gun #36 (Oni): I recently finished Vol. 5, which ended up as my favorite of the bunch. It showcases the fantastic storytelling that Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt have exhibited over the course of the series–a series that stands as one of the best around. I can’t wait to get into the monthlies, which I’ve been hoarding for a while now. If you haven’t tried The Sixth Gun yet, do yourself a favor and score yourself a copy of Vol. 1. Need more of an incentive? The end isn’t too far off now; so it’s a good investment.
The Sixth Gun #36

The Sixth Gun #36

  • Uber #8 (Avatar): Didn’t love most of #7. Left me seeing the book, at this point, as more flawed than fabulous. The end was good, though; it screamed: Don’t give up quite yet! OK, I won’t. Not gonna lie, though: my faith in Gillen’s being tested.
  • Unity #2 (Valiant): More Kindt in my bag! More money out of my pocket!
  • Watson and Holmes #6 (New Paradigm): It’s no longer a surprise: Watson and Holmes has been really, really good. Karl Bollers–along with his partners Rick Leonardi (#1-#4) and Larry Stroman (#5)–has set a high bar for the new creative team Brandon M. Easton and Steven Harris; but the foundation–built upon two solid characters–is a strong one, so expectations are pretty high. The only mystery, really, is why you aren’t reading this yet! (Good news: Vol. 1 is out this week, too!)
Watson and Holmes #6

Watson and Holmes #6

Yup. That just happened.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (12/4)

02 Monday Dec 2013

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A light week highlighted by a highly anticipated lights-out finale.

  • Trillium # 5 (DC/Vertigo): No doubt about it: Jeff Lemire is at his best when he’s in charge of it all.  So far, this series has lived up to–or, in terms of inventiveness in the first two issues, exceeded defied–expectations.   In #4, he weaves worlds together, creating a flower-like fragility, only to seemingly wipe the slate–more specifically, the final panel on the final page–clean.  Looking forward to another issue of haunting, wide-eyed gazes, which, in every instance, fill me to my eyeballs with well-deserved pity.  I swear, Lemire’s characters can see into my soul.  Come to think of it, perhaps what I see in their stares is pity–for me.
Trillium #5

Trillium #5

  • Velvet #2 (Image): If you like Brubaker’s storytelling style, why wouldn’t you like this?  His is a strong voice–one I happen to love–and it’s all over Velvet, which is a celebration of l’ esprit d’espionnage.  Throw in Epting’s photo-realistic artwork and, as a final note, toss a tricky Templeton out a window, and you’ve got a cinematic experience worth every Moneypenny.  Every bad-ass Moneypenny.
  • Inhumanity #1 (Marvel): I’ve always enjoyed the Inhumans, so I’ll give it a whirl.  Doesn’t hurt that Fraction’s in charge.  He’s been inhuman, himself, on Hawkeye and Satellite Sam.  He’s fallen from “must buy” to “must try,” however, because of a questionable–though unquestionably self-gratifying–turn on Sex Criminals.
Inhumanity #1

Inhumanity #1

  • God Is Dead #4 (Avatar): Not required reading–not by any stretch.  Yeah, there’s no need “to prepare for either ascension or damnation” with this Hickman side project; see, it is what it is: Deathmatch with supernaturals.  Who’ll come out on top?  God only knows.  But…he’s…dead…  Uh oh.
  • The Mocking Dead #4 (Dynamite): After the mid-season finale of The Walking Dead, we all could use a little lighthearted zombie action.  Trust Fred Van Lente to aim for the head as he kills off his biting satire.  That’s right: a cure is just an issue away.
  • Quantum and Woody #6 (Valiant): Each hilarious issue serves to send your BAC (Blood Asmus Content) well past the legal limit!  Have another!
  • Rover Red Charlie #1 (Avatar): Garth Ennis, the end of days, and three dogs.  What’s not to love?  Speaking of love: anyone looking at this and thinking Morrison and Quitely’s We3?
Rover Red Charlie #1

Rover Red Charlie #1

  • Shadowman #13 (Valiant): Peter Milligan brings a new direction to Shadowman, which was pretty good in the first place.  Looks like it’s gonna be a bit darker, which is perfectly fine with me.
  • Six-Gun Gorilla #6 (BOOM!): One issue away from immortality!  Oh, yeah: we’ve loved this series from its blistering get-go—so much so that I don’t want it to end!  OK, sure, I know it has to; every story has to.  Unfortunately, not every story does so well.  Simon Spurrier–who proves in #5 that he understands that “[a]ll good things must come to an end” and the “[o]nly thing a story needs […] is an end”–certainly hasn’t let me down yet; though, if I’m being fair, I did find the foray into Blue’s fictional reality a bit frantic–during a head-spinning first read, anyway.  Subsequent reads–yes, plural–spoke to me more clearly, and I’m damn glad they did; otherwise, I would’ve been riddled with doubt and undoubtedly inconsolable.  Ah, but with #6, I get to escape one final time into Spurrier and Jeff Stokely’s brilliant assault on escapism; and, you know what, I’m going to bet that they’re going to deliver the finale that this book deserves.  In fact, “I’m all-in!”
Six_gun Gorilla #6

Six-Gun Gorilla #6

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (10/16)

15 Tuesday Oct 2013

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Still riding a post-Comic Con high.  You know what that means: I’ll be looking to buy, buy, buy!

  • Brain Boy #2 (Dark Horse): Underwhelming initial effort on Fred Van Lente’s part.  Hard to live up to the standard he’s set for himself with the Grade A Archer & Armstrong and the hilarious The Mocking Dead.  R.B. Silva’s art, however, is stunning.
  • Buzzkill #2 (Dark Horse): Liked #1 more than I expected to.  Surprised me not unlike the way BOOM!’s Six-Gun Gorilla #1 did.  No, I’m not saying I expect it to be as good on as many levels as SGG; it’s clearly not that kind of book.  But expectations have been raised.  Let’s hope it doesn’t fizzle out like Dark Horse’s Colder and Dream Thief.
Buzzkill #2

Buzzkill #2

  • Animal Man #24 (DC): OK, now they’re getting serious: American Vampire‘s Rafael Albuquerque has taken over art duties.  Let’s see if this is the change Jeff Lemire needed to set this ship aright.
  • Batman and Two-Face #24 (DC): Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason deserve far more credit than they’ve received for the work they’ve been doing over here.  Anyone not under a spell should be able to tell: this is the best Batman book going.  Don’t take my word for it; pick it up and find out for yourself.  This issue kicks off a new arc, so jump on board now and find out what all of the buzz should be about.
Batman and Two-Face #24

Batman and Two-Face #24

  • Batman/Superman #4 (DC): So far, so good.  Greg Pak’s making sense despite treading in Morrison-like territory, and Jae Lee’s work is beautiful, as always.
  • Batwoman #24 (DC): Battle of the Bat-Sexes.  Sad to know we’re coming up on the end of what’s been a tremendous run with this character.
  • Wonder Woman #24 (DC): “Strange new era of Wonder Woman“?  OK.  Why not?
  • Nowhere Men #6 (Image): From out of nowhere comes the sixth issue of one of our favorite series.  I may have to break into the box and ground myself before taking off with this.
Nowhere Men #6

Nowhere Men #6

  • Sheltered #4 (Image): #3 showed some cracks.  I’m concerned that Brisson’s going to break down like he did during his Comeback.
  • Zero #2 (Image): Ales Kot proved he’s still got it with his opening salvo.  Easily wiped the terrible stain of his awkward run on Suicide Squad from my brain.
Zero #2

Zero #2

  • Hawkeye #13 (Marvel): Fraction’s back on his home turf.  He’s shown, however, that he’s comfortable just about anywhere nowadays, as evidenced by the sensational Satellite Sam and the arresting Sex Criminals.
  • Uncanny X-Men #13 (Marvel): Battle of the Atom will undoubtedly end with a considerable amount of collateral damage–including all of the X-books that have been tied to the debacle that has been Battle of the Atom.  Yes, this may very well be the push I need to get off of the X-[insert conveyance here].
  • Bloodshot #15 (Valiant): Definitely on the chopping block. See: I haven’t cared too much for Bloodshot since we said goodbye to Gamma.  I’ll give it this one to grab me good.  If it doesn’t, then it’s goodbye.
  • X-O Manowar #18 (Valiant): Not long ago, I almost quit on X-O.  Glad I didn’t.
  • Extinction Parade #3 (Avatar): My wife likes it more than I do.
  • Letter 44 #1 (Oni Press): If you haven’t read the ubiquitous raves for Charles Soule’s latest offering, then you haven’t…well…read the…ubiquitous…raves for Charles Soule’s latest offering.
Letter 44 #1

Letter 44 #1

  • The Sixth Gun #35 (Oni Press): As fun an ongoing as your bound to find.
  • Six-Gun Gorilla #5 (BOOM!): Ah, the best for last.  So far, we’re talking contender for Book of the Year.  Met Jeff Stokely at the NYCC, and–I don’t think he’d mind my saying–he promised that this one’s a wild ride.  I believe him.
Six-Gun Gorilla #5

Six-Gun Gorilla #5

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Turning pages,

Scott

What’s I&N Store (10/2)

01 Tuesday Oct 2013

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Kickin’ off Comictober commodiously:

  • Occultist #1 (Dark Horse): Even though I’m off Revival as of #14, I don’t see why I shouldn’t give Seeley and Norton another shot.
  • Hinterland #1 (DC/Vertigo): Now this has the hook and the look of a Vertigo book.
Hinterland #1

Hinterland #1

  • Trillium #3 (DC/Vertigo): Lemire set a high bar for himself with a remarkable #1; and wouldn’t you know it took the slacker a whole month to clear it!  That’s right: I thought #2 was even better than the now-famous flip book!  So, if I’m doing the math correctly, this one’s going to blow my mind!  And earn a bunch more exclamation points, too!
  • Bedlam #9 (Image): Unless this one leaves me feeling the way I feel after reading a top-tier book, I’m done.  No sense in hanging on anymore.
  • Lazarus #4 (Image): #3 was our #1 book for August, so you know I’m looking forward to this.  As engaging a series as you’re going to find.
Lazarus #4

Lazarus #4

  • Mara #6 (Image): Been waiting for this one for what feels like forever.  Here’s what I thought of the brilliant #5.
  • Mind the Gap #15 (Image): For the last two issues, McCann, Esquejo, and McDaid have been the comic book equivalent of Crosby, Stills, and Nash.  Masterfully layered with a twist of sublime.
  • All-New X-Men #17 (Marvel): The real battle is between my OCD and my better judgment.
  • Captain America: Living Legend #1 (Marvel): Andy Diggle hasn’t impressed me very much, but I’m going to buy this darned thing anyway.  Aaaaargh!  I’m absolutely desperate for a good Cap story.  Give it to me, man!
Captain America: Living Legend #1

Captain America: Living Legend #1

  • Marvel Knights: Spider-Man #1 (Marvel): Yet another panel of the counterpane Matt Kindt has tossed over top the industry.  Maybe–just maybe–we’ll get a good Spidey story out of the deal.
  • Codename Action #2 (Dynamite): Oh, why not?  Guess that makes me Codename Sucker.
  • The Mocking Dead #2 (Dynamite): Flesh-eating fun!  Look out, folks: no one is safe from Fred Van Lente and his biting writing!  He’s more dangerous than the undead!
The Mocking Dead #2

The Mocking Dead #2

  • Quantum and Woody #4 (Valiant): Just when I thought I was going to drop my first Valiant title, Jason Asmus and Tom Fowler hit a high note with the E.R.A.  That’s right: stupid just got clever–and just in time!  It’s got my vote!
  • Shadowman #11 (Valiant): I’m always a bit wary of a holiday special–especially a Halloween special; screams “filler issue,” dunniit?  Now that‘s scary!
  • God Is Dead #2 (Avatar): Certainly can’t say this one’s on par with The Manhattan Projects or East of West–not after one issue, anyway; that wouldn’t be fair, would it?  Well, if I can’t say it after #2, then this book, I swear to God, is dead to me.
  • Uber #6 (Avatar): Kieron Gillen is killin’ it–and everything else!  Hey, it’s OK: it’s an Avatar book.  Seriously, though: this has been very good–much better than I expected it to be.
Uber #6

Uber #6

  • Hit #2 (BOOM!): Expected baseball analogy: after one at-bat, Bryce Carlson and crew are batting 1.000.  Recalling the end of #1: this time around, let’s see how they handle the curve ball.

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Turning pages,

Scott