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Tag Archives: Sheltered

What’s I&N Store (3/11)

11 Wednesday Mar 2015

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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Abstract Studio, Ales Kot, Ant-Man, Astro City, Avatar, Cullen Bunn, Dan Slott, Dynamite, East of West, Ed Brisson, Fred Van Lente, Garth Ennis, Hellbreak, Image, J. Michael Straczynski, Jason Aaron, John Cassaday, Johnnie Christmas, Jonathan Hickman, Kurt Busiek, Magnus: Robot Fighter, Marvel, Matt Kindt, Mike Allred, Nick Dragotta, Nick Spencer, Ninjak, Oni, Rachel Rising, Sheltered, Sidekick, Silver Surfer, Star Wars, Terry Moore, The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood, The Sixth Gun: Dust to Dust, The Surface, Thor, Vertigo, War Stories

A real conversation I overheard in my head:

What are you looking forward to most this week?

Me?  Without a doubt: Thaw.

Oh, wow, OK.  I was expecting you to say something else.  You know, with Kindt and Kot and Slott and whatnot.

Hmm?  I said thaw.  Right?  Thaw.  Especially after all of the ice and snow.

Yeah, no, I know.  Frost giants are bad-ass.  But whoever the hell it is under that helmet is all business.  Girl power, baby!

Thaw.  Not Thor.  Thaw.

That is the question, isn’t it?

No, it isn’t.  You’re just not getting it, are you?

Are you kidding me?  Of course, I am!  I mean, Aaron’s hammering home a relevant point about gender, about identity–it’s almost Shakespearean if you think about it!

Just did.  And, no, it isn’t.

I’m so confused right now.  Doesn’t really sound like you’re really all that interested in Thor.  I mean–I don’t know.

Third base.

 

  • Astro City #21 (DC/Vertigo): This Quarrel-centric arc’s been a drag.  Wondering if Astro City‘s suffering from Busiek’s attention to his excellent–and anthropomorphically-fresh–The Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw.
  • East of West #18 (Image) I&N Demand I always look forward to getting lost in Hickman’s fatal vision, particularly now with the increasingly-intriguing boy with the A.I. balloon.  Alas, Babylon: I wish you well on your journey!
East of West #18

East of West #18

  • Sheltered #15 (Image): Wait a sec.  This is the end?  Oh, well.  I guess the volcano’s gonna blow after all.  Kinda glad it’s over.
  • Sidekick #10 (Image): I’ve liked Sidekick a lot.  Hard to imagine I almost quit after the first one!  Oh, and then there was the time I accused J.M.S. of plagiarizing–his own material, for goodness sake!  (In an odd twist, Straczynski employed a plot device in The Twilight Zone [our #10 book of 2014, by the way] that just so happened to be an integral part of fellow shelf-sitter Sidekick.)  All blood under the bridge.  Can’t wait to see how this wraps up.
  • The Surface #1 (Image) Just I&N Ales Kot–love him (Change, Zero) or hate him (Suicide Squad, Bucky Barnes: The Winter Soldier)–demands attention with his off-beat, oft-rhythmic writing style.  He definitely does “mind-bending” well, so I’m definitely down with discovering what lies beneath The Surface.
The Surface #1

The Surface #1

  • Ant-Man #3 (Marvel) I&N Demand Never in my life–or at least in the last couple of months–did I expect to find myself excited about Ant-Man.  Ant-Man for God’s sake!  It’s mostly promotional material, isn’t it?  And what about Secret Wars?  I mean, is this series gonna get stepped on after #5?  But Spencer’s having a good time and it shows!  (See Darth Vader and Princess Leia for very much the opposite feeling.)  And, then, of course, there’s the promise of the Taskmaster, one of my all-time faves.
Ant-Man #3

Ant-Man #3

  • Silver Surfer #10 (Marvel) I&N Demand Any regular reader–or occasional clicker–worth his power cosmic knows that we love Slott and Allred’s Silver Surfer, our #4 book of 2014.  What you don’t know–no matter your status–is that #8 was a Top 5 Pick of January and #9 was a Top Five Pick of February.  (Yeah, no links.  Sorry: we’re kind of behind.  It happens.  A lot.)  It’s been the perfect balance of humor and huge moments–none huger than the coming of Galactus.
Silver Surfer #10

Silver Surfer #10

  • Star Wars #3 (Marvel): Of the three newly relaunched Star Wars books, this one’s the only one that seems to care.  How much do I care?  Not as much as I had hoped.  We’ll see if this one helps.
  • Thor #6 (Marvel): OK, so I’m intrigued.  Sure, there have been some terrible moments (#5, for example: What is that nonsense between Thor and Titiana?  Is it The Sisterhood of the Traveling Spandex?); but they’ve been generally tempered by the well-developed mystery and the emergence of the Odinson as a superior supporting character.
  • The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood #5 (Dynamite): A decent Twilight Zone-ish story with some literary notes comes to close.
  • Magnus: Robot Fighter #12 (Dynamite): Yet another series comes to a close–a merciful, merciful close.
  • Ninjak #1 (Valiant) I&N Demand Matt Kindt’s proving that Valiant picked the right guy to power up their universe–especially with his latest wave of books (The Valiant, Divinity)  Ninjak promises to be further proof.
Ninjak #1

Ninjak #1

  • Rachel Rising #32 (Abstract Studio): I had this book written off for dead after #29.  #30 found Terry Moore resurrecting everything that made Rachel rise above the rest–and into our Top Ten Books of 2013.  Pretty glad I kept it on my pull list.  Thing is, I know that Moore can slip to less–and that knowledge is going to linger, maybe even spoil.  Rats.
  • The Sixth Gun: Dust to Dust #1 (Oni):  If it’s The Sixth Gun, it’s going to find its way into my bag.
  • War Stories #6 (Avatar): Garth Ennis and Tomas Aria are telling the harrowing story of the Children of Israel, and I’m on the edge of my seat to find out how it ends.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

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What’s I&N Store (2/4)

04 Wednesday Feb 2015

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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Angela: Asgard's Assassin, Annihilator, Antonio Campo, Birthright, BOOM!, Brian K. Vaughan, Brian Michael Bendis, Chris Burnham, Cullen Bunn, Dark Horse, David Lapham, DC Comics, Detective Comics, East of West, Ed Brubaker, Feathers, Fiona Staples, Frazer Irving, G.I. Joe, Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Hawkeye, Hellboy and the B.P.R.D., IDW, Image, Imperium, James RIch, Jason Aaron, Joelle Jones, John Cassaday, John Romita Jr., Jonathan Hickman, Joshua Dysart, Joshua Hale Fialkov, Joshua Williamson, Kieron Gillen, Lady Killer, Marguerite Bennett, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Michael Avon Oeming, Miracleman, Nameless, Nick Dragotta, Robert Venditti, Saga, Sheltered, Star Wars, Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses, Superman, The Bunker, The Sixth Gun: Days of the Dead, The United States of Murder Inc., Valiant, Velvet, X-O Manowar

Nothing beats a deep freeze like a bag of sizzling hot comics!  Right?

Right?

Of course not.  The deep freeze doesn’t give a sleet how hot the books are.

Still worth the risk, though, of jumping into the ol’ snowmobile and maybe–quite possibly–most assuredly–running off the road, ramming into another road warrior, and/or crashing right through the façade of your favorite comic shop.

Right?

Right.

Whoa, wait: I may have something here: a drive thru comic shop…

Somebody get on that.

  • Hellboy & The B.P.R.D. #3 (Dark Horse)
  • Lady Killer #2 (Dark Horse) I&N Demand I tweeted this out about a perfectly executed #1 because I had to:

@jarrodjones_ @Joelle_Jones @DarkHorseComics @jamieESrich Lady Killer #1 was pretty great. Familiar notes with a fresh face: “Avon calling!”

Very much looking forward to this one.

Lady Killer #2

Lady Killer #2

  • Detective Comics #39 (DC)
  • Superman #38 (DC) I&N Demand New costume?  Thank God.  New power?  Say what?  It’s as bright as day: Johns and JRJ have been like twin yellow suns re-energizing the Last Son of Krypton; so I’m down with whatever it is they want to do.
Superman #38

Superman #38

  • G.I. Joe #5 (IDW)
  • Birthright #5 (Image)
  • East of West #17 (Image) I&N Demand Everything about East of West has been great.  Hickman went bigger with this world of his, and he’s owned it–like a mad god suffering from significant stretches of lucidity.
East of West #17

East of West #17

  • Nameless #1 (Image) Just I&N Grant Morrison.  Chris Burnham.  See: not so nameless after all.
Nameless #1

Nameless #1

  • Saga #25 (Image)
  • Sheltered #14 (Image)
  • Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #1 (Image) I&N Demand The follow-up to the killer Killers arc.  Didn’t read Killers?  Haven’t been hit by any Stray Bullets at all?  Consider this a jumping on point–one that’ll inspire you to jump backward into the satisfyingly-uncomfortable line of fire; into a shotgun blast of expertly-wielded ambiguity.  Pull the trigger, you son of a gun!  Give Sunshine and Roses a shot!
Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #1

Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #1

  • Velvet #9 (Image)
  • Angela: Asgard’s Assassin #3 (Marvel)
  • Hawkeye #21 (Marvel)
  • Miracleman #15 (Marvel)
  • Star Wars #2 (Marvel)
  • The United States of Murder #6 (Marvel/Icon)
  • Annihilator #5 (Legendary) I&N Demand Lots of lovely layers here.  Meta magic courtesy of Mr. Morrison.  Looks great, too, thanks to the digitally dreamy artwork of Frazer Irving.
Annihilator #5

Annihilator #5

  • The Bunker #9 (Oni)
  • Feathers #2 (BOOM!)
  • Imperium #1 (Valiant)
  • The Sixth Gun: Days of the Dead #5 (Oni)
  • X-O Manowar #33 (Valiant)

What?  No Wytches?  Risking stitches: didn’t care for it.  Tried.  Couldn’t.  I blame the tone problems rooted in #1.  Can’t unsee needless tirades, right?

Right?

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

 

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What’s I&N Store (7/2)

30 Monday Jun 2014

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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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.
Lazarus #9

Lazarus #9

  • 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

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

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.
Quantum and Woody #12

Quantum and Woody #12

  • 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.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

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What’s I&N Store (5/28)

27 Tuesday May 2014

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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2000 AD, Adrian Alphona, Ales Kot, BOOM!, Brass Sun, Brian Wood, C. Willow Wilson, C.O.W.L., Chris Roberson, Danijel Zezelj, Dark Horse, DC Comics, Dead Boy Detect, Doc Savage, Doctor Spektor, Dynamite, Ed Brisson, Garry Brown, Garth Ennis, Gary Erskine, Guiu Vilanova, Harbinger, I.N.J. Culbard, Ian Edginton, Image, Iron Patriot, J. Michael Straczynski, Jason Aaron, Jason Howard, Jason Latour, John Christmas, Joshua Dysart, Kyle Higgins, Mark Buckingham, Mark Waid, Marvel, Matt Kindt, Michael DiPascale, Mind MGMT, Ms. Marvel, Neil Edwards, Peter Milligan, Prince Valiant, Rod Reis, Rover Red Charlie, Ryan North, Shadowman: End Times, Sheltered, Southern Bastards, Star Wars: Rebel Heist, The Massive, The Midas Fesh, The Twilight Zone, Toby Litt, Trees, Vertigo, Warren Ellis

Back to business–big business:

  • The Massive #23 (Dark Horse): Man, Brian Wood is at the top of his game.  Proof: The Massive has earned Top 5 honors three months running, with #22 claiming the top spot for April.
  • Mind MGMT #22 (Dark Horse): My love affair with Mind MGMT continues–despite the fact that #21 earned the most ignominious monthly distinction we have to offer: The Biggest Dis(appointment) of April.  Say it ain’t so, Scott!  Oh, I’ve said it and written it–right here.
Mind MGMT #22

Mind MGMT #22

  • Star Wars: Rebel Heist #2 (Dark Horse): I’m not a big Star Wars guy.  I was when I was a kid, though: had all the toys, put on plays based on Empire.  I was always Luke; my cousin, Han.  So, Star Wars-wise, this wasn’t a gimme; but it was–because of Kindt.  He certainly brought his writing style to the cause, relying heavily on first person narration to sell Solo.  I wasn’t particularly sold–again, ain’t my bag–until something struck me like a speeding yellow Rolls Royce!  Once I saw Nick Carraway in Jan and Gatsby in Han, the story took a different shape for me.  Turns out, this is the Star Wars series I’ve been looking for.
Star Wars: Rebel Heist #2

Star Wars: Rebel Heist #2

  • Dead Boy Detectives #6 (DC/Vertigo): #5 took us through a looking glass, now didn’t it?  I just keep falling for this series!
Dead Boy Detectives #6

Dead Boy Detectives #6

  • C.O.W.L. #1 (Image): Gates of Gotham was my first experience with Kyle Higgins.  I’m willing to try another–even if the Previews description does sound a bit like Watchmen.
  • Sheltered #9 (Image): Hasn’t been hitting the same notes that really drew me to the book initially.  And still I buy–because, I guess, I haven’t read Lord of the Flies in a while.
  • Southern Bastards #2 (Image): #1 was easily one of our Top Books of April.  Gosh!  There was so much I liked about it, and I wrote it all down just for you right here.
Southern Bastards #2

Southern Bastards #2

  • Trees #1 (Image): Warren Ellis is branching out all of a sudden, isn’t he?  Moon Knight‘s been very good through three issues, which has served to grow expectations for this very different story, with its roots in…  OK.  I’ll stop; don’t want to get too sappy.
Trees #1

Trees #1

  • Iron Patriot #3 (Image): Ales Kot hasn’t caught me yet, but Garry Brown’s been a sure bet.  Says a lot if I’m buying a book for the art.
  • Ms. Marvel #4 (Marvel): #3 was really, really good.  C. Willow Wilson shines when she highlights Kamala Khan and her family, much in the same way Bendis made–and may still be making–magic with Miles Morales.  If I had to guess, I’d say she’s following the Bendis formula, which is a pretty smart move.  Biggest fear: the Inhuman connection will suck the life out of this book; it’s been a concern ever since the mist came a-rollin’ in.
  • Brass Sun #1 (2000 AD): I lost interest in Hinterkind pretty quickly, so Ian Edginton isn’t a must buy or a must try; but the Previews description left me trying to picture “a clockwork solar system where planets whirl on vast metal arms and the sun of cogs is worshipped as a god”–and now I want to see what it looks like!  We’ll see if I.N.J. Culbard can live up to the images in my nerdy mind.
Brass Sun #1

Brass Sun #1

  • Doc Savage Anuual 2014 (Dynamite): Annuals rarely work out well–especially when a different creative team is in charge.  Speaking of charge: $5.99?  Really?  I can’t imagine that that much value will be added to the book to warrant a two buck bump.
  • Doctor Spektor #1 (Dynamite): I don’t know from Doctor Spektor; but, with faith as my friend, I’ll optimistically Waid into this one.
  • Harbinger #23 (Valiant): Getting closer to the end.  Sad, ain’t it?
  • The Midas Flesh #6 (BOOM!): Has gotten heavy fingered–and seriously so.  The damn heavy finger has flicked away all the fun!  Don’t get me wrong: I’ve enjoyed the ethical dilemma at the heart of the book; the situation surrounding it is pure gold, after all.  But the dialogue’s become a real drag, its being weighed down by wheel spinning and redundancies and all.  I mean, what is this?  The Republic?  No: The Republic actually goes somewhere.  Sad to say, Ryan North’s gone a bit south.  But there are only two issues left, so…
  • Rover Red Charlie #6 (Avatar): What a weird series, right?  So many affective moments offset by the inevitable Avatar moments.  You know the moments of which I speak.  Which will win the day here in the finale?  Hoping it’s the former.  Please let it be the former.
Rover Red Charlie #6

Rover Red Charlie #6

  • Shadowman: End Times #2 (Valiant): OK, so I’ve erased five blurbs.  Thing is, I still don’t know why I’ve followed Shadowman this far.  Yeah, that might explain why we’re in the End Times.
  • The Twilight Zone #5 (Dynamite): The first arc was pretty sharp.  Definitely Straczynski at his best.  Hoping to get more of the same going forward.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

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What’s I&N Store (4/23)

22 Tuesday Apr 2014

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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Alberto Alburquerque, Ales Kot, Avatar, Batman Eternal, Braden Lamb, Brian Wood, Canaan White, Charles Soule, Chris Samnee, Danijel Zezelj, Daredevil, Dark Horse, DC, Dead Boy Detectives, Ed Brisson, Elektra, Evil Empire, Gary Erskine, Greg Rucka, Harbinger, IDW, Image, Jeff Lemire, Joe Infunari, Johnnie Christmas, Jonathan Hickman, Joshua Dysart, Joshua Hale Fialkov, Justice League United, Kevin Eastman, Kieron Gillen, Lazarus, Letter 44, Mark Buckingham, Mark Waid, Marvel, Mateus Santolouco, Matt Kindt, Matt taylor, Max Bemis, Michael Lark, Mind MGMT, Nick Pitarra, Oni Press, Ransom Getty, Ryan North, Scott Snyder, Shelli Paroline, Sheltered, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Bunker, The Manhattan Projects, The Massive, The Midas Flesh, Toby Litt, Tom Waltz, Uber, Valiant, Vertigo, W. Haden Blackman, zero

Here’s what I’ll be stuffing in my bag this week:

  • The Massive #22 (Dark Horse): Brian Wood and Danijel Zezelj follow up the very strong “Bloc” arc–which earned Wood and Garry Brown I&N top book status for February and March–with “Sahara,” which promises to slake our thirst for more Mary.
The Massive #22

The Massive #22

  • Mind MGMT #21 (Dark Horse): Those of you who have been following our little blog for a while may have been surprised to see that #20 didn’t crack our Top 5 Books of March.  Believe me: after hashing out the list, we were pretty surprised, too!  Matt Kindt certainly didn’t disappoint: he drew out an issue highlighting a giant of Mind MGMT past, and did so using tall panels to accentuate, well, the agent’s giantness.  Super clever–and, more important, super effective!  Kindt’s artistic approach often results in impossibly long-limbed figures; #20 acts, then, as an ectomorphic celebration!  This new offering promises to be a silent issue, which, in Kindt’s capable hands, promises to say plenty, as his art often tells most of the story anyway.  On a nostalgic note: when I think “silent issue,” like you, I go right to G.I Joe #21.  I also think of Martin Wagner’s Hepcats because, if memory serves, there was a stunning silent issue that focused on child abuse.  Does anyone remember that?
Mind MGMT #21

Mind MGMT #21

  • Batman Eternal #3 (DC): So, I gave #2 a shot despite my not being excited about #1.  Wasn’t much of an improvement.  Some storytelling yips persist–including the agonizing, issue-long reveal of the antagonist; and the dialogue’s nothing to talk about.   And that said, I’ll probably pick this up.
  • Dead Boy Detectives #5 (DC/Vertigo): Still like the vibe and the possibilities.
  • Justice League United #0 (DC): Lemire on a hero book doesn’t excite, but I’m going to try it nevertheless.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #33 (IDW): Here’s something that does excite: Mateus Santolouco is back!  Not kidding, folks: the Turtles aren’t a novelty anymore; they’re not simply a guilty pleasure; they’re a mainstay, I’m proud to say!
TMNT #33

TMNT #33

  • Lazarus #8 (Image): Like The Massive, Lazarus has been one of our top books for February and March.  Can’t help but think of Ginsberg’s “Howl” because that’s what I think of when I think of Denver: “who journeyed to Denver, who died in Denver, who came back to Denver & waited in vain, who watched over Denver & brooded & loned in Denver and finally went away to find out the Time, & now Denver is lonesome for her heroes.”  Well, that and Dave Loggins’ “Please, Come to Boston.”
Lazarus #8

Lazarus #8

  • The Manhattan Projects #20 (Image): #19 was a tad frivolous–I mean, did we really need to see the Oppenheimer civil war?  The end presented an interesting twist, however.  Oh, I’m definitely down with dueling Einsteins.
  • Sheltered #8 (Image): Has become a bit “is what it is,” hasn’t it?
  • Zero #7 (Image): We liked #1-#4 enough to celebrate Kot’s baby as a top title of 2013.  #5 was OK, although the idea of aliens being thrust into the mix wasn’t all that thrilling.  #6 wasn’t very good at all–writing-wise or art-wise.  Yeah, unfortunately, we weren’t blown away by Vanesa Del Rey’s work, which was tough to follow at times.  Expectations have fallen to just about, well, zero.
  • Daredevil #2 (Marvel): The reboot/relaunch/rewhatever was underwhelming.  I kinda dig the whole devil out of water device; but outside of that, #1 wasn’t much of anything, really.
  • Elektra#1 (Marvel): I’ve been an Elektra junkie forever.  I’m interested in seeing how half of the former Batwoman writing duo–W. Haden Blackman–handles the deadly sairen.
Elektra #1

Elektra #1

  • The Bunker #3 (Oni Press): Has been very good.  Fialkov’s handling the time-travel aspect as if it isn’t an obstacle to the storytelling process, when, in fact, it’s like skipping through a minefield.  Impressive, indeed!
  • Evil Empire #2 (BOOM!): #1 ended on a sharp note, that’s for sure.  We’ll see if Bemis and Getty can keep the momentum going.
Evil Empire #2

Evil Empire #2

  • Harbinger #22 (Valiant): Recently read that Harbinger‘s ending as of #25.  A bit of a bummer, sure, but it does lighten the load without my having to be the one to make the dreaded decision.
  • Letter 44 #6 (Oni Press): I was planning on dropping it, but with this being the arc ender and all…
  • The Midas Flesh #5 (BOOM!): About as much fun as you’re bound to have with a finger.  #4 suffered a bit from some strained development; but overall the series has been really good.
  • Uber #11 (Avatar): Hoping for some fireworks, that’s for sure.

Which books are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

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What’s I&N Store (2/26)

24 Monday Feb 2014

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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Tags

Alan Moore, Brian Wood, Cary Nord, Dark Horse, David Aja, DC Comics, Dead Boy Detectives, Deadly Class, Doc Savage, Dynamite Entertainment, Ed Brisson, Fantastic Four, Garry Brown, Hawkeye, Howard Chaykin, IDW, Image, James Robinson, Johnnie Christmas, Jonathan Hickman, Jordie Bellaire, Kevin Eastman, Kieron Gillen, Kurtis J. Wiebe, Leonard Kirk, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Matt Kindt, Mind MGMT, Miracleman, Nick Pitarra, Pariah, Rat Queens, Rick Remender, Robert Venditti, Roc Upchurch, Ross Campbell, Satellite Sam, Scott Snyder, Sean Murphy, Sheltered, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Manhattan Projects, The Massive, The Wake, Three, Valiant, Vertigo, Wes Craig, X-O Manowar

A nice list of books to round out the month.

  • The Massive #20 (Dark Horse): #19 struggled a bit to to rise to the level of “Longship.”  It was to be expected, I suppose, even as expectations were expectedly ramped up as a result of the exquisite study in tension that was the showdown between Cal Israel and Bors Bergson.  In general, there is something magical about how Brian Wood gets more out of simmering than most get out of boiling.
  • Mind MGMT #19 (Dark Horse): Matt Kindt is working at a completely different  level; and, in that, he’s competing against himself–and winning, wouldn’t you know!  Oh, you know–because you’re a regular reader of Mind MGMT, right?  If you’ve been a regular reader of our humble blog, then you know that #16 was our favorite issue until #17 came along and earned our coveted Best Single Issue of 2013 award.  #18–our #1 book of January 2014–has trumped #17 as our favorite issue of Mind MGMT to date; so you know what we’re expecting: #19 is going to be better still!  It’s going to be magic!
Mind MGMT #19

Mind MGMT #19

  • Pariah #1 (Dark Horse): Sounds interesting enough; has me thinking Gravity, obviously, but that’s OK.  The creators–Aaron Warner, Phillip Gelatt, and Brett Weldele–come with some impressive credits, so I’m going to give it a try.
  • Dead Boy Detectives #3 (DC/Vertigo): A unique narrative with a decidedly Vertigo vibe.
  • The Wake #6 (DC/Vertigo): According to Scott Snyder: “#5 [was] the big game changer.”  If that means that the series is suddenly going to get interesting, a bit more challenging, then terrific.  If it simply speaks to the leap forward in time that we’ve been hanging onto since #1, then I’m bored already.  Aside from some Snyder-esque horror in #3, the series has been an absolute snoozefest.  This is a rep-read–did I just coin that?–if there ever was one.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #31 (IDW): I’m still marveling over the fact that I’m reading a Turtles book.  Thing is, it’s good.  The writing’s solid, and Ross Campbell’s art is terrific; it suits the situation in which the Turtles find themselves perfectly.  And it certainly doesn’t hurt that Mateus Santolouco’a return to the title is just around the corner.  Sweet!
TMNT #31

TMNT #31

  • Deadly Class #2 (Image): I’ve about reached the end of my Remender rope.  But I have just enough left for this one.  I hope I get a bit more than recycled schemes, though.
  • The Manhattan Projects #18 (Image): Clinically insane, historically hilarious.  Engaging despite its evolving at a Darwin-esque clip.  #17 ends on a Hickman high note: a heavily armed General Westmoreland flips off Einstein–easily one of my favorite characters–and fires, “F&@% your science, Doctor…I’ve got a machine gun.”  Genius!
  • Rat Queens #5 (Image): It sure as hell ain’t high art, but who gives a rat’s ass?  Wiebe and Upchurch are spreading a plague of royal merriment!  Catch it as quickly as you can!
Rat Queens #5

Rat Queens #5

  • Satellite Sam #6 (Image): All I remember of #5: lots of below the belt lip service.  Now, with the oral stage set, what’s to come, Sigmund Fraction?  I hope we get back to business–before the afterglow turns totally to aftergloom.
  • Sheltered #7 (Image): #6 offered up an interesting angle: the adult as the innocent.  Derek and I talked about it here: I&N the Gutter with…Sheltered.  I’m hoping that this series stays tight and doesn’t get tedious–like Revival, for instance.
  • Three #5 (Image): #3 was great.  #4 didn’t quite have the same impact but was a damn fine follow up with an edge of your seat cliffhanger.  Can’t wait to see how it plays out here in #5. Kieron Gillen’s got something really good going with Three. Looks like when he’s doing his own thing, as with Uber, he’s much more effective and, ultimately, more engaging. He grabs his angle, does his research, and soars.
  • Fantastic Four #1 (Marvel): James Robinson’s The All-New Invaders has been a major disappointment.  In fact, we called out #1 as our Biggest Dis(appointment) of January.  We all know that Robinson’s capable of so much more.  Well, I hope he brings that more to Fantastic Four–and I hope what he and Leonard Kirk bring together as a team to “The World’s Greatest Comic Magazine” justifies the reboot.
  • Hawkeye #15 (Marvel): Wouldn’t you know: a filtered Fraction is a much better–and certainly sexier–Fraction. But Fraction’s only half of the team that’s serving up the second best hero book–after Daredevil , of course–in the Marvel Universe: David Aja has a hand–a very active hand, sexually actually–in the sexification of Clint Barton, as well. Hey Derek!  Smart move jumping onto Mind MGMT–finally. Now it’s time to set your sights on some super hero action. What are you waiting for?  I’ll even lend you my trades!
Hawkeye #15

Hawkeye #15

  • Miracleman #3 (Marvel): I’m hooked on Alan Moore’s Miracleman! Gosh, I wish I had read these stories back in the day, though. But thanks to Marvel for giving me an opportunity enjoy them now.  Could do without all of the ancillary material, however.
  • Doc Savage #3 (Dynamite): On the strength of Derek’s recommendation, I’ve picked up the first two, but I haven’t gotten around to reading them yet.
  • X-O Manowar #22 (Valiant): A reliable read, though rarely remarkable.  Aric, however, remains one of my favorite characters.  I wonder whether or not Aric’s involvement in Unity will bring a little something extra to this book.  We’ll see.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

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I&N the Gutter with…Sheltered

24 Friday Jan 2014

Posted by dmainhart in I&N the Gutter...

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

All-New X-Men, Ed Brisson, Image, Johnnie Christmas, Manifest Destiny, Paul Allor, Revival, Shaolin Cowboy, Shari Chankhamma, Sheltered

Welcome to our newest feature: I&N the Gutter with Scott and Derek, where we go all Siskel and Ebert on some poor, unsuspecting comic book. What you’ll find here are brief snippets of (mostly) unedited transcripts from our never-ending conversations about comics; the raw, unfiltered stuff from which the rest of our writing on the site springs. What it may lack in eloquence we hope it makes up for in spontaneity. Please let us know your thoughts and feel free to chime in!

Our first victim, I mean, entry is:

Sheltered #6

Sheltered #6. Writer: Ed Brisson. Artist: Johnnie Christmas. Colorist: Shari Chankhamma. Editor: Paul Allor. Publisher: Image Comics 

Backstory: Safe Haven is a survivalist camp, stockpiling supplies for what they believe is the imminent apocalypse. It’s a mentality the children of the camp absorbed all too well: convinced that the greatest threat to their survival are their own parents, they slaughter them. Lucas, their leader, tries to hold them all together, but tensions are growing, secrets leaking, and further blood has been shed. All very Lord of the Flies. We join events after issue 5, when the outside world has come a-knockin’.

Discussed: patricide, letters pages, narcolepsy

Derek Mainhart: So, I have to disgree with you about Sheltered.

Scott Carney: Really?

DM: I quite enjoyed it. I thought it was the strongest issue they’ve had since the first one. I really liked it cause its the beginning, the creators set something up and then they blow it up, which is what they did in the first issue. In this case they’re bringing in this guy from the outside world. And I liked his backstory. I enjoyed getting to know him and his loser friends. And then, you know, the sort of expected happens, and now he’s on the run.

SC: I found myself not caring. I fall asleep when I read comics.

DM: Never a good sign.

SC: It doesnt always mean something. Sometimes I’m just reading and I recline and I just pass out. I did fall asleep a couple of times here though, and I do think it was because I wasn’t so terribly engaged. I don’t really care about any of the characters at this point. I understand why he brought in the new characters. I mean after having gone through five issues of developing this little kid-run society after slaughtering the adults and whatnot, and all the conflicts that are extant there, and now to step out of that for a moment and bring in the adult world a little bit more – a very innocent adult world too if you compare it to where the kids are –

DM:  – Right. the guys basically an idiot. –

SC: – yeah – “hey I could use some help over here!” kinda thing. But I think if we look at it in terms of the innocence/experience thing then it starts to take on a role. But do I care about it? And if I’m measuring it that way, I didnt really care about it.

DM: Well if you don’t care about it then you don’t care about it. It’s time to drop it.

SC: Well I dont know about that.

DM: One of the things I liked about the most recent Manifest Destiny, in the letters column – it’s great, funny – but they also talk about their comic reading habits; how they stack their books and what they read first and what the read last; y’know the crap we talk about all the time. And one of them says something like “as soon as it becomes a chore, I’m done”. And I completely agree.

SC: I’ve been saying that with All-New X-Men for 21 issues.

(laughter)

DM: But I liked the switch. The way it ended last issue with the adults coming in shining lights on the camp, they seemed like a threat. But Brisson did a nice job this issue showing that they’re really not a threat at all. And now he’s going to be tracked down by, yknow, kids.

SC: True.

DM: I hope it doesnt become a five issue arc of them tracking this guy, going all Shaolin Cowboy on us yknow, five issues of them just running around in the woods.

SC: That would be awful.

DM: That would be enough to turn me off. I can deal with one issue of that. What I’m hoping happens is that somehow this will complicate things. Like, does this whole series have to be these kids in a bunker? Where does it go? If it ends up, they shoot the guy, status quo, yeah thats not good. Then theyre just spinning their wheels.

SC: Yeah, what’s the point?

DM: Like Revival

SC: Top Ten book!

(chuckle)

DM: So, the big question: Will you pick up the next issue? I’m def still in.

SC: Sure. After that, who knows?

Turning Pages,

Scott & Derek

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What’s I&N Store (1/8)

06 Monday Jan 2014

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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Tags

Alberto Alburquerque, All-New X-Factor, Avengers World, Black Widow, Carmine Di Giandomenico, Charles Soule, Chip Zdarsky, Chris Dingess, Dark Horse, Death Sentence, Ed Brisson, Ed Brubaker, Fatale, Francesco Trifogli, Geof Darrow, Hinterkind, Ian Edginton, Image, Inhumanity: Awakening, James Asmus, John Christmas, Jonathan Hickman, Kieron Gillen, Letter 44, Manifest Destiny, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Matt Kindt, Matthew Roberts, Ming Doyle, Montynero, Nathan Edmondson, Nick Spencer, Oni Press, Paul Davidson, Peter David, Peter Milligan, Phil Noto, Quantum and Woody, Roberto De La Torre, Sean Phillips, Sex Criminals, Shadowman, Shaolin Cowboy, Sheltered, Stefano Caselli, Three, Titan, Valiant, Vertigo

Back to normal, which means a big ol’ bag o’ books for me!

  • Shaolin Cowboy #4 (Dark Horse): Geof Darrow’s taken us for a ride, all right–an insanely detailed carousel ride.
  • Hinterkind #4 (DC/Vertigo): I was all set to drop it after #2.  Picked up #3 anyway, mostly because I forgot to pay my willpower bill.  Anyway, you know what: it was worth it.  The game has been changed–and so too has my mind.  It’s official: I’m Hinterkindhearted!
Hinterkind #4

Hinterkind #4

  • Fatale #19 (Image): #18 had one of my favorite moments of 2013–and I can still feel the beat!  Overall, however, Fatale‘s suffering a bit from Brubaker and Phillips’s having hit such ridiculously high notes with their series of perfectly constructed one-shots.  Don’t get me wrong: it still rocks!  It’s one of the best books around and a highlight of any week.
  • Manifest Destiny #3 (Image): Destined for greatness–especially if Dingess and Roberts can maintain the momentum and the mystery they’ve manifested thus far.  Their terrific little twistory is both epic and intimate and I’m loving every minute.
Manifest Destiny #3

Manifest Destiny #3

  • Sex Criminals #4 (Image): Last issue was our Dis(appointment) of the Month–and for good reason: Fraction’s let his ego get in the way once more–and not to a particularly positive effect.  (To be fair, though, plenty of folks are high on his hijinks.  Hey, what ever gets you off, right?)  I’m back for another, however, because I’ve never been good at break ups; I need to make sure that there’s really nothing left worth hanging on to.
  • Sheltered #6 (Image): I’m really enjoying this series from Ed Brisson and John Christmas.  It’s vital and violent and reads with a velocity that leaves my head spinning with a dizzy I totally dig.  Not kidding: if you’re a fan of Clone–particularly because of how it’s paced–you’ll definitely like this book, too.
Sheltered #6

Sheltered #6

  • Three #4 (Image): Perhaps planned: #3 was pretty perfect.  Turned Gillen’s latest twistory from a Must Try to a Must Buy.
  • All-New X-Factor #1 (Marvel): One all-important factor to consider: Peter David’s back with his funky X-bunch.  It’d be foolish not to give it a few issues.
  • Avengers World #1 (Marvel): Hickman’s an I&N Must Buy–well, his independent work is, anyway.  I haven’t been sold on any of his Marvel stuff; but I’m willing to give this one at least one because I need to fill need: I need a version of Captain America that I can buy into and buy on a regular basis.  Yup, I’m hoping Hickman and Spencer–who’s still got me buying Bedlam for some sick reason–can capture the Captain I’ve been craving since Brubaker’s transcendent turn.
Avengers World #1

Avengers World #1

  • Black Widow #1 (Marvel): Oh, why the hell not?  What’s the worst it could do?  Suck?  It’s got a tough web to climb considering what Brubaker–the bastard!–weaved for the Widow in Winder Soldier.  I hope Nathan Edmondson is up to the task.  I hope his Widow has bite!
  • Inhumanity Awakening #2 (Marvel): Kindt built some layers–a la his brilliant Mind MGMT–into the first issue.  The effect was lost on me, however, because no matter how hard I tried I couldn’t care about anything or anyone.  If I end up with #2 in my bag, it’ll be because of my loyalty to the incomparable Kindt.
  • Afterlife with Archie #3 (Archie): One of the most exciting releases of 2013!  Spot-on Archie goodness from Roberto Aguirre Sacasa and gorygeous art from the incomparable Francesco Francavilla  Can’t wait to see where this goes!
Afterlife with Archie #3

Afterlife with Archie #3

  • Letter 44 #3 (Oni Press): So far, President Blades has been the highlight of the series.  He’s an admirable character–one I took to immediately.  This issue promises to shed some more light on the astronauts and on the aliens.  Sounds good.  Gosh, I wish I could say that this book reads like Clone or Saga.  I don’t know; maybe it will at some point.  My fear, however, is that it’s going to turn out like the infuriatingly slow Revival.  We’ll see, won’t we?  I mean, it’s why we buy the books, isn’t it?
  • Quantum and Woody #7 (Valiant): James Asmus is out of control–and we’re damn lucky for it.  So very funny.
Quantum and Woody #7

Quantum and Woody #7

  • Shadowman #14 (Valiant): Milligan’s first issue showed a lot of promise–thanks, in part, to De La Torre’s art, which suits Shadowman so very well.  No doubt about it: I’m sticking around to see where this goes–and the darker, the better.

What are you looking forward to this week?

Turning pages,

Scott

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What’s I&N Store (11/20)

20 Wednesday Nov 2013

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

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Tags

A Voice in the Dark, Abstract Studio, Afterlife With Archie, Ales Kot, Amanda Conner, Archie, Batman and Two-Face, BOOM!, Brain Boy, Brian Michael Bendis, Brian Wood, Buzzkill, Cary Nord, Chip Zdarsky, Chris Bachalo, Chris Samnee, Clone, Daredevil, Dark Horse, Darwyn Cooke, David Lopez, David Schulner, DC Comics, Donny Cates, Ed Brisson, Eternal Warrior, Francesco Francavilla, Fred Van Lente, Greg Pak, Harley Quinn, Image, Imagine Agents, Javier Rodriguez, Johnnie Christmas, Jordie Bellaire, Juan Jose Ryp, Larime Taylor, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Morgan Jeske, Patrick Gleason, Peter J. Tomasi, R.B. Silva, Rachel Rising, Robert Venditti, Roberto Aguirre Sacasa, Scott Snyder, Sean Murphy, Sex Criminals, Sheltered, Terry Moore, The Wake, Trevor Hairsine, Uncanny X-Men, Valiant, Vertigo, X-Men, X-O Manowar, zero

Something for everyone!

  • Brain Boy #3 (Dark Horse): Kind of glad it’s over.  Of late, I’ve been high on anything Fred Van Lente (Archer & Armstrong, The Mocking Dead), but this has been rather underwhelming.  The art from R.B. Silva, however, has been brain blowing!
  • Buzzkill #3 (Dark Horse): A sniper of a first issue, followed up by an even sharper second shot.  Here’s to hopin’ Cates et al don’t kill the buzz–cuz we know what happens all too often to minis that rely on clever premises: Can you say Colder?  How ’bout Dream Thief?
  • Batman and Two-Face #25 (DC): #24 started off a little rough for me.  Then came the moment Dent became Two-Face.  Wow.  Peter J. Tomasi’s got a knack–a Knight knack not seen in the big Batbook.  He and his book deserve more credit and attention for what he and it are accomplishing here in the rather unforgiving confines of the New 52.
Batman and Two-Face #25

Batman and Two-Face #25

  • Harley Quinn #0 (DC): I love Harley.  Not so sure I’m going to love this.  Will too many artists spoil the birth of this series?  We’ll see.  Heh.
  • The Wake #5 (DC/Vertigo): Wake me when it’s over.
  • A Voice in the Dark #1 (Image): I’m not familiar with Larime Taylor, but I am intrigued by the premise.  Oh, and it’s an Image #1, so…  Not that that’s any sort of guarantee: see Umbral.  Ugh.
  • Clone #12 (Image): #11 was, perhaps, the best issue yet.  It’s a high energy read that’s expertly crafted: from the ridiculously detailed art to the danger drummed up in the dialogue.  An absolute clinic in the power of the page turn.
Clone #11

Clone #12

  • Sex Criminals #3 (Image): Expect another Fraction-packed issue!  Fantasizing: in the end, will this series prove to be no more than an experiment in creative masturbation, or will it all come together into something far more satisfying?  Either way, I’m open for to another session.
  • Sheltered #5 (Image): Doggone it!  Now, that’s the way to end a comic book!  With #4, Ed Brisson bared his teeth and the series’ soul.  Sure, there’s long-term concern; but in the short term, this hard-hitter comes with high expectations.
  • Zero #3 (Image): Ales Kot has found his playground.  #2 was brilliant.  There is a 0% chance of my missing this one.
Zero #3

Zero #3

  • Daredevil #33 (Marvel): A monster #32 was overshadowed by the horrifying news of the imminent demise of this remarkable run of Daredevil.  I’m not sure that I’m down with the daring jump to digital only.  Makes me super sad, especially since it’s this run–starting with #1–that brought me back to comics after too many years away.  Who knew they’d be wrapping it up so soon?
Daredevil #33

Daredevil #33

  • Uncanny X-Men #14 (Marvel): I long to be an ex-X-reader.  Seriously.  In fact, I really thought Battle of the Atom would be enough to drive me away for good.  Thing is, I’m buying into Bendis’s Cyclops.  And Bachalo’s awesome.  Oh, and…
  • X-Men #7 (Marvel): After a terrible #6 (a BotA tie-in, of course), I swore up and down that I was out.  But Brian Wood’s so good–well, at writing comics, anyway.
  • Eternal Warrior #3 (Valiant): So far, so good.  Greg Pak is keeping my interest by keeping things above sword.
  • Imagine Agents #2 (BOOM!): I haven’t read #1 yet.  Gonna grab this, you know, just in case.  Heck: Derek liked it!  Usually, that’s good enough for me!
  • Rachel Rising #21 (Abstract Studio): #20 was filled with Moore amazing moments–a masterful mix of horror and humor.  Loved the first two pages with the serpentine smoke, snaking from panel to panel.  Speaking of snakes…
Rachel Rising #20

Rachel Rising #21

  • X-O Manowar #19 (Valiant): Has really taken off of late.  Ironic, eh?  You know, because they’ve finally returned to Earth and…  Oh, you know.
  • Afterlife with Archie #2 (Archie): You know you loved #1.  And if you didn’t, it’s only because you didn’t read it.  Great storytelling from Roberto Aguirre Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla.  That’s right: get you some Archie!

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Turning pages,

Scott

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What’s I&N Store (10/16)

15 Tuesday Oct 2013

Posted by ScottNerd in What's I&N Store?

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Alberto Alburquerque, Ales Kot, Animal Man, Avatar, Batman and Two-Face, Batman/Superman, Batwoman, Bloodshot, BOOM!, Brain Boy, Brian Azzarello, Brian Hurtt, Brian Michael Bendis, Buzzkill, Charles Dickens, Chris Bachalo, Christos Gage, Cullen Bunn, Dark Horse, David Aja, DC Comics, Dynamite, Ed Brisson, Eric Stephenson, Extinction Parade, Fred Van Lente, Greg Pak, Hawkeye, Image, J.H. Williams III, Jae Lee, Jeff Lemire, Jeff Stokely, Johnnie Christmas, Joshua Dysart, Letter 44, Marvel, Matt Fraction, Max Brooks, Nate Bellegarde, Nowhere Men, Oni Press, Patrick Gleason, Peter J. Tomasi, R.B. Silva, Rafael Albuquerque, Robert Venditti, Sheltered, Simon Spurrier, Six-Gun Gorilla, The Sixth Gun, Trevor McCarthy, Uncanny X-Men, Valiant, W. Haden Blackman, Wonder Woman, X-O Manowar, zero

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

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