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Review: The Paybacks #2

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The-Paybacks-v2-2It’s unlikely you’ve read a series quite like this before. The elevator pitch for The Paybacks would probably be something like “what happens when superheroes run out of money, and who lent it to them in the first place?” If that sounds half way toward interesting, then you’d be about half right.

You could be excused for thinking that the characters within the comic, those failed superheros who are massively in debt, are cheap parodies of existing, and more popular, comic book superheroes… although, if you did think that, you’d be absolutely right;  Night Knight is an English rip off of Batman who’s afraid of the dark, and doesn’t quite measure up to his DC counterpart. Bloodpouch is a brilliant send up of all things from the 90’s that have been done better elsewhere. But the thing is, that’s exactly the point. At least some of these failed heroes failed because they is already somebody better than them doing the
same thing.

Or because excessive pouches faded away as the nineties’ fashion choices fell by the wayside.

The Paybacks #2After the first volume introduced us to the world of The Paybacks and their T.A.R.D.I.S.-like vehicle/headquarters called The Van, the second volume has started off by asking just how far you’re willing to go to wipe away your debts. Marginal spoilers follow. With the most powerful superhero team on the planet, The Command, coming after the eponymous former heroes after a slight misunderstanding, The Paybacks mysterious benefactor Mr. Pierce declared war on The Command. If one of the indebted heroes is able to kill a member of the super team, then their debt will be cleared. It’s a brilliant set up, and one that Donny Cates & Elliot Rahal make abundantly sure that we’re well aware that the sheer number of The Paybacks may not mean much in the long run.

I’m not going to lie; watching the former heroes go broke, and then hit rock bottom as they question whether or not they’re willing to do what’s needed (not whether they can which is another question entirely) is something that I’m thoroughly enjoying.

Look, the thing about The Paybacks is that no matter how much I try, I’m never going to be able to do full justice to just how entertaining the series is. This is a fantastic read, and I love every moment that it’s in my hands.

Story: Donny Cates and Elliot Rahal Art: Geoff Shaw
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Heavy Metal Comics provided Graphic Policy a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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The Paybacks #2Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: The Paybacks #2 (Heavy Metal) – If you read nothing else this week, read The Paybacks. It’s a brilliantly written series that should be on your pull list.

4001 A.D. #4 (Valiant) – Valiant’s summer event comes to a close with this issue, and having already read it, it’s a very satisfying conclusion. Every bit as good as I wanted it to be.

Bloodshot Reborn #16 (Valiant) – This is one of the best-looking comics around right now, and is worth reading just for the art. Fortunately, Jeff Lemire’s Groundhog Days meets Survivor story is violently captivating.

Howard The Duck #10 (Marvel)  – It’s a shame this series is coming to an end, and while I’m not sure when that’ll happen exactly, I’m going to enjoy each issue we get until the series is no more. Howard the Duck has been a brilliant read each month partly because of Chip Zdarsky’s jab at almost everybody, and partly because of the way the comic pokes fun at itself.

Predator vs Judge Dredd vs Aliens #2 (Dark Horse) – A concept that’s as jaw dropping as having peanut butter on a hamburger – and just as delicious. No, don’t eat the comic. Read the comic, eat the peanut butter burger, love both.

 

Jason

Top Pick: Art Ops #11 (Vertigo) – Guest artist Rob Davis pits the Art Ops team against a centuries old monster, from a legendary artist rumoured to have painted deaths very essence into a painting in “The Boy Who Painted Death”.

My interest in Vertigo’s Art Ops waned for a few issues when Mike Allred’s art was restricted to him contributing covers, and this month’s inclusion of Warhol’s Silver Clouds means two of my favourite pop artists in one. This might not be a problem for everyone, but I’m a sucker for Allred’s insane pop art style so the change was slightly jarring at first. Even with Brundage taking over full-time art duties, bringing a much rougher hewn style to the page, Art Ops continues to be inventive both in its storytelling and visuals to bring us a true sleeper hit.

Howard The Duck #10 (Marvel) – The penultimate issue before we have to say goodbye again to the avian detective and Zdarksy’s hilarious run before he heads off to more cosmic affairs with Star Lord later this year. Last issue saw Howard deep in full meta commentary territory, with ratings chaser Mojo addressing his sporadic appearances in the Marvel Universe over the years. Issue ten promises the reveal of the mastermind behind the ducks most recent series of misadventures. A series that’s continued to be both hilarious and subversive, so let’s hope we aren’t waiting as long for another writer to realise Howard’s potential.

All-New Wolverine Annual #1 (Marvel) – In the wake of Logan’s death  readers saw Laura Kinney, formerly X-23 taking on the mantle of Wolverine, seeking out clones of herself and aiming to help them whenever possible. An exciting series from the start, Marvel have cemented her as the new Wolverine by embedding her deep into the post Secret Wars landscape with Laura joined by a number of allies this year from Doctor Strange, The Wasp and even Old Man Logan as she unravels the mystery behind her “sisters”. The first Wolverine Annual is no exception, with fan favourite Spider-Gwen swinging in for an all new story with the character find of the year, Jonathan: Actual Wolverine.

 

Anthony

Tokyo Ghost #10 (Image Comics) – It’s bittersweet that this will be the final issue of Tokyo Ghost for the foreseeable future. This series has done a great job at tackling and questioning a lot of present day problems, even with the futuristic setting. The creative team have been showing us a very terrifying and perhaps more overtly technologically hypnotized society that still parallels in many ways to the present day. The drama is greatly balanced with comedic moments and a truly emotional relationship between Debbie and Led.

Saga #37 (Image Comics) – Saga is back! The gorgeous wraparound cover by Fiona Staples just elevates the hype for this arc in what sounds like will be an even more escalated situation after Hazel was finally reunited with her parents.

Afterlife with Archie #10 (Archie Comics/Archie Horror) – It’s always a good week when there is a new issue of Afterlife with Archie. Afterlife appeals to both fans and non-fans of Archie with its more dramatic, darker tone that is filled with surprises each and every issue. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa has been scripting some great character pieces that heighten the relationships between each of the teens and adults of Riverdale unlike ever before. It’s also pretty hard to say no to Francesco Francavilla’s art that is just perfect in the horror setting. This issue looks to focus on the origin story of Josie and Pussycats.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Secret Coders Vol. 2: Paths & Portals (First Second) – Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes’ graphic novel series that teaches people to code while being entertained returns! The second volume is just as fantastic as the first, upping the mystery but more importantly it also includes multiple instances where it teaches you to code. Yes, even my 30 something self learned some skills! A perfect blend of entertainment and education.

Rough Riders #5 (Aftershock Comics) – The series that blends history and weirdness continues in its fun ways and I can’t wait. The comic is really entertaining and this issue has Teddy Roosevelt fighting the infamous Battle of San Juan Hill, but there’s also Thomas Edison, Annie Oakley, Harry Houdini, and Jack Johnson, all on their secret mission.

The Paybacks #2 (Heavy Metal Comics) – One of my favorite comics of the last year. The first volume was hillarious and this second volume looks to be just as good. This is superhero comedy at its best.

Skip to the End #1 (Heavy Metal Comics) – Jonny Wells desperately wants to relive his grunge rock royalty past. As bassist of Samsara, he craved the Rock’n’Roll lifestyle that eventually claimed the life of the band’s visionary lead singer and his best friend. Now a VH1 cautionary tale of drug addiction and self-loathing, Wells trades his smack for an old battered guitar, and discovers that returning to his former glory days are only a few chords away. Literally.

Tomboy #7 (Action Lab: Danger Zone) – This series is under the radar unfortunately and people need to find out about it! It’s a mix of superhero/manga/Japanese horror with a teenage girl at the center of it all as a vigilante out for revenge to kill the people who killed her friend.

Mini Reviews For the Week Ending 7/16

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Sometimes, the staff at Graphic Policy read more comics than we’re able to get reviewed. When that happens you’ll see a weekly feature compiling short reviews from the staff of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full review for. These are Graphic Policy’s Mini Reviews.

Alex

Old-Man-Logan 8Old Man Logan *8 (Marvel)* Okay, I get it. Old Man Logan is from an alternate fucking future where the world went to hell. Stop telling me this every bloody issue. This falls somewhere between being a place holder comic between story arcs, and a waste of money. Whether it was designed to help new readers get into the series, or MArvel just needed n issue, telling a tory of Logan having insomnia because the fture he’s from may happen is beyon frustrating – especially since the last arc was all about Logan accepting this was a new tmeline. A bloody redundant comic. Spend your money on the Paybacks instead. Overall: 5 Recommendation: Pass

Nightwing: Rebirth #1 (DC)* I didn’t read  Grayson, so this was a nice catch up for me, but if you did read that critically acclaimed series, then you can probably skip this glorified recap page – as good as it was, there’s unlikely to be anything new here for you. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Read if you’re getting back into Nightwing, Pass it otherwise.

Wonder Woman #2 (DC)* A fantastic issue. Only the second Wonder Woman comics I’ve ever truly read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it; much more so than the first issue.Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Mickey Shorts #1 (IDW) Based of the newer cartoon show, this anthology comic mixes an innocent Ren and Stimpy style artwork with Disney’s famous mouse. If you’ve seen much of the show, then this will feel familiar to you. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Walt Disney Comics and Stories #733 (IDW) Sometimes Disney reprint comics are just the kind of easy reading that you want to enjoy, especially after some of the shittier comics from other publishers. You know exactly what you’re getting here before you open the cover, and that’s often more refreshing than you realize. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation Read

Brett

4001-SM_001_COVER-A_FOREMANNightwing: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – A decent bridge comic that should catch folks up on what Dick Grayson has been up to. It isn’t super exciting at all and feels like an extended recap more than anything. But, it does set up what we can expect in the ongoing series. If you have no idea what has happened and need to catch up, this should scratch that itch. Otherwise, there’s little that’s groundbreaking or vital. Overall Rating: 6.8 Recommendation: Pass

4001 A.D. Shadowman #1 (Valiant) – A very interesting new take on Shadowman and the Deadworld. Valiant has been knocking this event out of the park, so much so I want to see this world going forward. More please! Overall Rating: 8.3 Recommendation: Buy


The Adventures Of Miru #1 (Action Lab Entertainment) – A very cute all-ages fantasy series. The first issue does a great job of setting up the world and teasing lots of mysteries. This is one to keep an eye on. Overall Rating: 8.1 Recommendation: Buy

Adv-of-Miru-cover-1Aspen Universe Revelations #1 (Aspen Comics) – Aspen is bringing together their properties into one cohesive universe and while this first issue begins to lay the groundwork for that, it’s probably not the best for folks that have read previous Aspen comics. Still, I want to see how it’s brought together into one world. Overall Rating: 6.5 Recommendation: Pass

The Bounty #1 (Dark Horse) – A fun new series from Kurtis Wiebe and Mindy Lee that’s a sci-fi spin on bounty hunters. The first issue is entertaining and had me wanting to see what comes next. Wiebe does fun comics, and he keeps up that streak here. Overall Rating: 7.75 Recommendation: Read

The Bunker #18 (Oni Press) – Well that was a hell of a twist! This is an issue that REALLY shakes things up. Though it’s not new reader friendly, it’s a comic series folks should be checking out and this issue emphasizes that. Overall Rating: 8.7 Recommendation: Buy

paybacks-1The Paybacks #1 (Heavy Metal Comics) – Absolutely amazing. I loved the first miniseries and this new series is just as good. If you haven’t checked this series out, here’s a perfect issue to start with. Overall Rating: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Rough Riders #4 (Aftershock Comics) – Continuing the fantastic mix of history and weirdness. Aliens. Roosevelt. Lasers. Rasputin!? So much fun. Overall Rating: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

Wacky Raceland #2 (DC Comics)* – This re-imagining of the classic television cartoon is out there, but entertaining. This one adds a lot of depth for Dick Dastardly. Definitely not one for kids, but well worth checking out. Overall Rating: 8.05 Recommendation: Buy

Warp Zone #1 (Rosarium Publishing) – Really trippy and really weird. The comic has a style that reminds me of Ed Roth and Garbage Pail Kids. An indie comic worth checking out. Overall Rating: 7.3 Recommendation: Read

rough rders 4All-New X-Men #11 (Marvel)* – While it’s great Marvel tied in their X-Titles to Apocalypse with the film out (evidence the Fox/Marvel split is bullshit) the various stories are a bit lacking, especially this one. The issue wraps up the arc as Evan and Hank deal with proto-Apocalypse. Maybe there’ll be some decent long term implications, but the issue and arc is rather blah, especially the art. It’s been a long time since the X-Titles were worth praising, and this is a prime example. Overall Rating: 6.7 Recommendation: Pass

Millwarworld Annual 2016 (Image Comics) – It’s great to see new talent, but the art and stories here are all over the place as far as quality. It’s great to see new stories for various series like Chrononauts, Kingsman, and Starlight, nothing here is must have for fans of the various series. Still, cool to see an anthology of this type. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

Javier

Archangel #2 (IDW)** – I am sticking with this series with the hopes that Gibson will pull it all together in subsequent issues, but so far I am finding it harder and harder to enjoy. Gibson himself, in the afterword, says, “… this particular flavor combination has never openly turned up in [his] prose fiction.” However, I have come across the OSS, WWII, and alternative timeline/history motifs in a large number of other sci-fi and comic book works –and I suspect so have others. Butch Guice’s art is a saving grace, but not enough to recommend it too highly. Plus, Gibson’s fans, like me, will be disappointed by the surprising lack of cyberpunk tones. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Pass.

House of Penance #4House of Penance #4 (Dark Horse)** Tomasi’s and Bertram’s mythic re-telling of the nonstop building of the infamous Winchester Mystery House continues to please. Sarah’s blood and bile soaked mad quest to atone and appease the spirits, bumps up against the pragmatic realities of her family’s business. What role (aside from being a possible love interest) Warren will play in all of this is yet to be fully revealed.
Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy.

Daredevil #9 (Marvel)* – In the conclusion to Soule’s two part tale entitled “Blind Man’s Bluff,” Daredevil and Spider-Man team-up to get their hands on a mysterious briefcase held by the Chinese Triad atop one of Macau’s hottest gambling spots. The art is decent, with DD sporting the Netflix inspired dark costume, and Spidey on his right side. The story was entertaining, with hints at the importance of the briefcase’s contents impacting future storylines. Overall: 7. Recommendation: Read.

Violent #5 (Image)** – Another well-written indie victim of low sales, Ed Brisson concludes the first arc of Violent with promises of a second via KickStarter. I was digging TheViolent_05-1this Canadian inside look at our Northern neighbor’s seedier side. If you missed this series, and are into crime stories, I highly recommend you pick up the TPB when available.
Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy. 

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #6 (Archie Comics) **– The other half of Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s horrific take on the Archie universe is superb story telling. In this latest issue we get two origin stories with references to Kipling’s “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi”, Jacob’s “The Monkey’s Paw”, and Egger’s “The Witch”. Salem’s origin story is appropriately set within the historic context of America’s Salem Witch Trials to chilling effect; and Robert Hack’s artwork expertly captures the pulpy 1950’s tradition of horror art.
Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy.

Patrick

Z’isle #5 (Miscellaneum Studios)*: This is a zombie comic set in my hometown of Montreal, so I was curious. (You can read the title as Zombie Island/Île or Asile/Asylum) I was even more curious to see, on the inside back cover, a cast credit page featuring a large number of my actor friends. Unfortunately, Lateef Martin’s drawing is too off-model for its cinematic premise: I didn’t easily recognize either the actors nor many of the settings. Also unfortunately, Isabelle Duguay & Lateef Martin’s writing doesn’t take advantage of Montreal’s uniqueness and delivers a generic post-apocalyptic story with generic dialogue and generic characters. I always say, “No man is an island, but Montreal is.” Overall: 5. Recommendation: Pass.

Descender_13-1Descender #13 (Image)**: In this one, we get into Captain Telsa’s story – and it is hugely, massively, generic and dull. Jeff Lemire hits basically every single beat from every single cheap sci-fi movie that ever cribbed from cheap adventure serials: childhood trauma, daddy issues, bar on the Fringes full of scum and villainy, rebellious cadet, etc. Not one note of originality in the entire issue. Which Dustin Nguyen paints the hell out of. Sigh. Overall: 6 (thanks to Dustin) Recommendation: Pass

Midnight of the Soul #2 (Image)**: I still maintain that, with a stronger editorial hand, this series could have ranked with great Fifties literature (for the record, Hugh MacLennan’s The Watch That Ends the Night is one of my favourite novels). Howard Chaykin remains a bit too caught up in his own tropes to really push Joel Breakstone’s story beyond a kind of cheap revenge pulp noir. But there’s a hint of something, in the last pages, of a character who is finding his own redemption back-asswards, riding a motorcycle through the bottom of the barrel. And that will keep me coming back, despite all of my misgivings. Overall: 7 (because Howard Chaykin art). Recommendation: Read

Ryan C

Hal Jordan And The Green Lantern Corps: Rebirth #1 (DC)*: Another typical “stage-setter,” this “special” is only notable for being, if anything, even less ambitious than its “Rebirth” counterparts in that it does nothing else other than recap what’s come before with almost no emphasis placed on where writer Robert Venditti is looking to take things from here. Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps.When they waste two full pages on Hal Jordan reciting the Green Lantern oath that almost anyone reading the book knows by heart anyway, you know they’re padding things. Meanwhile, Ethan Van Sciver’s art is, as always, terrible. All in all this comic is completely indistinguishable from the worst “New 52”-era pablum. Overall: 1. Recommendation: Pass.

Wonder Woman #2 (DC)*: Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott kick off their every-other-issue “Year One” storyline, and aside from the fact that events in this installment take up well over a year in and of themselves, thus negating the arc’s title, I have no real complaints. Scott’s art is gorgeous, Rucka has a masterful handle on Diana, Steve Trevor, and everyone else involved, and the various plot threads — with which we’re, admittedly, already quite familiar — are imbued with some real pathos thanks to some expert fleshing-out of the backstory involving one of the other guys on Trevor’s mission who doesn’t make it out alive. Another re-telling of Wonder Woman’s origin may not be strictly necessary, but if it’s told well and sheds some of the “new light” on proceedings that Rucka has promised, well — it should at least make for some interesting reading. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Buy.

the vision 9The Vision #9 (Marvel)*: Another “holy shit they really went there” issue from Tom King and Gabriel Hernandez Walta, with tragedy so thick you can cut it with a knife, a highly intriguing new take on Vision’s “brother,” and a painfully drawn-out demise of one of our principal characters making for, you guessed it, another essential chapter in comics’ most doom-laden series. Miss it at your peril, this book is at the top of everyone’s “read pile” for good reason. Overall: 8.5. Recommendation: Buy

Nightwing: Rebirth #1 (DC)*: I’ve got all the respect in the world for Tim Seely, but his talents — as well as those of Yanick Paquette — are wasted on this long-form “what has gone before” nonsense. There’s some solid interaction between Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne, though, and you do, at least, get some hint of where things are headed in the future, so it’s a slight step up from the other “Rebirth” book that hit shelves this week. Still not worth your three bucks, though. Overall: 4. Recommendation: Pass.

Shean

Joe Golem Volume 1 (Dark Horse)-Crime Noir has been popular in comics for a while thanks to the likes of Ed Brubaker, but when combined with the supernatural, the alchemy is more than interesting, it is addictive, for lovers of both genres such as this writer, when done right. Mike Mignola, is in rare form here, exercising muscles that he wasn’t able to do with Hellboy. Golem is more than a relatable character, but is definitely a realistic one Horizon_01-1as he reacts as most people would do in both of the cases seen in this first miniseries. You will definitely cheer for him as he saves the children he could in the Rat Catcher and one would be remiss to see the comparisons to the Returned, in Sunken City. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Horizon#1 (Image) Growing up watching Captain Planet, the message of saving the earth by not destroying it was not lost on me. Still years have passed and it seems as though the world is still doomed for this inevitable demise. This comic aims to pose the question if we have time travel on our side can we still leave this world inhabitable for all mankind. By issue’s end, you somehow feel more hopeful about the future. Overall: 9.3 Recommendation: Buy

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.

Please note that with some of the above comics, Graphic Policy was provided FREE copies for review. Where we purchased the comics, you’ll see an asterisk (*). If you don’t see that, you can infer the comic was a review copy. In cases where we were provided a review copy and we also purchased the comic you’ll see two asterisks (**).

Review: The Paybacks #1

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paybacks-1I haven’t been this excited for a comic in a long time.

The first series (volume?) of The Paybacks was fantastic, but then it inexplicably disappeared from Dark Horse Comics’ line-up. The series was an entirely fresh take on the business of superheroing, and thank the comic gods that Heavy Metal  have given the series a new home. If you’re unfamiliar with the series, the elevator pitch would probably be something like “what happens when superheroes run out of money, and who lent it to them in the first place?”

Unless the heir in question is Bruce Wayne or Tony Stark, that would most often be met with an “it’s comics, who cares?” response. We’ve always just accepted that broke college students could afford to pay for the supplies to make web fluid, and that somehow four teenagers living in the sewers have access to technology that would make your average techie drool.

But, when those superheroes inevitably default on those loans they took out from the mysterious Mr. Pierce, then it’s time for The Paybacks to get involved. A group of repo men, women, and sasquatches, also coincidently failed and indebted former heroes, that turn up to collect on your debt. The last series ended after The Paybacks had just collected a debt on The Command (think a knock off Justice league), and the new number one opens just as the identities of said super team has been leaked, and the shit is about to hit the fan.

There’s going to be two different types of people reading this comic; those who read the first four issues, and those who didn’t. The Heavy Metal published The Paybacks #1 will welcome both with open arms; serving as both direct sequel to the fourth issue in the previous volume, and an excellent jumping on point for new readers to the series, the newest number one issue of The Paybacks is an absolute joy to behold. The characters are flawed, easily believable despite the fantastical setting; at the heart of it, these men and women are just trying to work for to pay off their debt. Something that many of us can all relate with, I’m sure.

Artist Geoff Shaw gives each character a distinct look and visual personality and his ability to convey the often times batshit crazy moments genuinely had me grinning from ear to ear as I was reading this issue.

There is no reason you shouldn’t be reading this. Can’t afford another comic each month? Drop one of the ones you’re iffy on, because The Paybacks promises to be one of the best series you’ll read in a long time.

Ladies and gentleman, The Paybacks are back. And they’re fucking amazing.

Story: Donny Cates & Elliot Rahal Art: Geoff Shaw
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Heavy Metal Comics provided Graphic Policy a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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The Paybacks #1 CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: The Paybacks #1 (Heavy Metal Magazine) – The first four-issue arc was superb, blending the feeling of overwhelming debt with superpowers and the humour that results from such an outrageous pairing turned into one of the best series I’d ever read from then publisher Dark Horse. Now that the Paybacks are back with Heavy Metal, I’m beyond excited to get my grubby mitts on them again.

Conan The Slayer #1 (Dark Horse) – I always get excited whenever a new Conan comic (or movie, but those are far fewer in frequency), but I inevitably stop reading them at some point – and usually I have no idea why, but a new Conan series is exactly what I want right now.

Nightwing Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – I was never keen on the idea of Dick Grayson as a spy, and by not continuing to read his solo series post-Nightwing, apparently I missed out on a great series. But my dislike of spy heavy stories kept me away from the former Boy Wonder at first, and then there was a general reluctance to dive in after eight-plus missed issues. Now that the issue numbers are restarting, and the mask is back?

Old Man Logan #8 (Marvel) – After the last three issues left me barefoot (that’s a pretentious way of saying they blew my socks off), I have high hopes for the next arc. If it’s half as good as the last one, I’ll be happy.

Wrath Of the Eternal Warrior #9 (Valiant) – The Eternal Warrior is free from the Labyrinth and wants vengeance. I’m just happy to get another issue of my favourite series.

 

Javier

Top Pick: Nightwing Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – Dick Grayson finally returns as one of my favorite characters, together with Tim Seeley rightfully taking back his writing duties. Looking forward to both.

Ragnarok #9 (IDW Publishing) – Walter Simonson’s latest take on Thor’s post-apocalyptic mythology is amazing. Yes, it’s old-school eighties comic book storytelling, but it’s also a pleasant escape to Valhalla—what’s left of it.

The Vision #9 (Marvel) – It’s been on my pull list since the beginning, and I’ve been raving about it since it came out. It’s now near its conclusion, and if King’s ‘Omega Men’ is a harbinger of things to come, we are in for a hell of an ending within the few remaining issues.

House of Penance #4 (Dark Horse) – Tomasi and Bertram have drafted a horror tale around the legendary Winchester House and its builders.  This nightmarish western, with and without guns, has me gasping for air.

Wacky Raceland #2 (DC Comics) – This was one of my favorite Saturday morning cartoons back in the day. It was a goofy cartoon, but this most recent updated iteration is anything but. The writing is a bit rough, but the artwork is gritty and realistic, with well-drawn characters more representative of today’s diversity.

 

Anthony

Top Pick: Monstress Vol.1 TP (Image Comics) – If you missed out, now is your chance to catch up and devour one of the best titles released by anyone in 2016. Marjorie Liu has a firm, confident grasp on world-building, establishing quite a bit without feeling overburdened. The array of characters are all so well fleshed out and especially stand out from the insanely detailed artwork of Sana Takeda. Takeda’s designs are just dazzling. From the interior and exterior environments to the clothes being worn, Takeda’s illustrations never wane…you just may cry from how stunning this series is.

Kabuki Library HC Vol.3 (Dark Horse) – David Mack’s Kabuki is a very special series. Combining all sorts of art styles (watercolours, pencils, collage, etc.), Mack weaves in and out of them with a confident ease that never feels pretentious, just plain and simply amazing. These oversized ‘Library’ editions that Dark Horse has been releasing are truly the way to absorb this futuristic tale of an assassin that has been wronged. Words cannot really do justice to Kabuki. Each page is like a treasure beholden to the eye, sometimes requiring a closer examination for the full effect of its use of text (and a very interesting use of comic lettering) and image.

Descender #13 (Image Comics) – Tim-22 and Tim-21 are not getting along. Last issued revealed some backstory from Tim-22, putting some possible reasoning behind his violent tendencies compared to the doughy innocence of Tim-21. Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen have been painting a wonderful sci-fi series so far that has yet to lose any steam.

Mirror #5 (Image Comics) – Mirror has been one of the most beautifully composed titles that Image has released this year. Emma Rios’s emotional script with Hwei Lim’s gorgeous, playful layouts make every single issue a treat for the eyes and mind. Every issue evokes a floating dream type of feeling that works quite well with its fantasy-like setting. A rising tension has been building from the first issue between the Synchronia and the animals of Irzah that is sure to come to a head in this final issue of the first arc.

Bloodshot Reborn #15 (Valiant Entertainment) – The first part of ‘Bloodshot Island’ was a Doctor Moreau-esque introduction to this mysterious place that Bloodshot has found himself in. With a cast of other Bloodshots that appear to have come from other eras and other specific wars all being hunted by a mysterious, powerful being, this looks to be another intriguing storyline crafted by Jeff Lemire. Plus, getting to see Mico Suayan’s incredibly detailed artwork is always a very, very good thing.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – The return of Ethan Van Sciver to the GL books is such a welcome one for me. While I am not the biggest fan of Robert Vendetti’s writing the return of Ethan overshadows that for me. Plus Hal vs. Sinestro. Give me a ring and a charge, I’m going in!

Nightwing Rebirth # 1 (DC Comics) – Sad to see Grayson go, but Dick returns to the front lines again. I love the creative team on this book. Seeley and Pacquette make this a can’t miss for me. While we have the Bat Trainees going on in Detective Comics, I have a feeling Nightwing will show us why he is the first and greatest to graduate from Bat – U.Civil War II #3 (Marvel Comics) The specter of death looms high here. I have big fears that it’s going to be Tony Stark that bites the big one. However being the wrestling fan that I am and how unpredictable Marvel has been of late, I’m not ruling out the swerve here. So far the Civil War sequel has been good. I just want something to really ramp it up. Can’t have a war without deaths. Sprinkle a few Marvel!

Civil War II #3 (Marvel Comics) – The specter of death looms high here. I have big fears that it’s going to be Tony Stark that bites the big one. However being the wrestling fan that I am and how unpredictable Marvel has been of late, I’m not ruling out the swerve here. So far the Civil War sequel has been good. I just want something to really ramp it up. Can’t have a war without deaths. Sprinkle a few Marvel!Conan the Slayer #1 (Dark Horse Comics) I’ve always been a big fan of Conan both the character and late night talk show. (If they make a Conan the Slayer with the Flaming C I’d be all over it) So a new start and number one, makes this a

Conan the Slayer #1 (Dark Horse Comics) – I’ve always been a big fan of Conan both the character and late night talk show. (If they make a Conan the Slayer with the Flaming C I’d be all over it) So a new start and number one, makes this a no-brainer for me. Going to pick this one up and enjoy with some ale.

Action Comics # 959 (DC Comics) – This one just edged out this weeks Detective Comics for me, as I need to know what the heck is the deal with the 3rd Clark Kent? It he a time wraith (left over from the flash TV show) or an impostor or what? Plus my Superman’s return has been a joy and I’m always down for a tussle with Doomsday. Hope Metropolis is current on their insurance payments.

 

Brett

Top Pick: The Paybacks #1 (Heavy Metal Comics) – This was one of my favorite comic miniseries of recent years. It’s a combination of humor, action, and superheroes was beyond entertaining. The fact we’re getting more makes me jump for joy and hopefully others pick it up and find out what they’re missing. This is a series that deserves a wider audience and if you’re into superheroes with a great mix of humor, this is a series that’s a must get.

Aspen Universe Revelations #1 (Aspen Comics) – An Aspen book on my list?! Aspen is converging a few of their comic worlds into one cohesive universe and that begins here. Normally that happens on days ending with y in comics, but the fact that Josh Fialkov and JT Krul are writing it has me super stoked. Fialkov’s involvement is a coup for Aspen.

Horizon #1 (Skybound/Image Comics) – A new sci-fi series from Skybound/Image has me intrigued. That fact that it seems to be an allegory towards war and the current quagmire in the Middle East has me excited.

New Super Man #1 (DC Comics) – I’ve read the first issue and while it doesn’t completely blow me away, there’s a chance this series may be a brilliant dissection of copyright/intellectual property and the appropriation of it that goes on in China known as Shanzhai. If that’s the intention, I have no idea, but that’s how I’m reading it right now.

Rough Riders #4 (Aftershock Comics) – Just an amazing mix of history and utter weirdness.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Old Man Logan #8 (Marvel) – I have really been enjoying his book.  Wolverine was never one of my favorite characters, and not being familiar with the original Old Man Logan story, I didn’t really know what to expect from this book.  But wow, is there some good stuff going on in here.  Loving the journey Logan is on, the darker art, the grit…if you’re not reading this book, you are missing out.

Civil War II Choosing Sides #2 (Marvel) – The first issue was a lighter read, but  it is an interesting point of view to see the lesser known players in the MU taking their positions in this civil war.  I do hope it gets a little deeper though, with more thought on the characters and not just a passing glance.

New Avengers #13 (Marvel) – This title has been a let down from the get go (for me anyway).  A few characters I was excited to see really got lost in this book, and this Maker big bad hasn’t been that big a threat.  However, things have turned around with the new civil war making waves.  The team has been divided on the issue and now things are getting interesting.  The Maker is unleashing his New Revengers in this issue, so I’m looking forward to that; plus Songbird just looks kick ass on the cover, so I haven’t totally given up on this yet.

Wacky Raceland #2 (DC Comics) – The first issue was indeed a wacky ride…and I liked it!  This adaptation of an old kids cartoon is definitely more grown up; apocalyptic waste land, racers driving for their lives… and cars that talk!  I’m looking forward to the next lap of this race.

Jeremy Holt and Alex Diotto Go Heavy Metal and Back in Time with Skip to the End

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During Emerald City Comicon it was announced that Heavy Metal Comics is launching a new series from writer Jeremy Holt and artist Alex Diotto, creators of the critically-acclaimed series Southern Dog.

The series is a time travel alternate history of a Nirvana like band. Skip to the End follows Jonny Wells, bassist of the breakout punk band Samsara, whose life has fallen apart after his bandmate and best friend commits suicide. Twenty
years later he struggles with heroin addiction, lost in the songs they created and desperate to relive the past, when he discovers a mysterious guitar capable of making the jump.

Get out the flannel, the first issue will hit comic book stores August 3rd.

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