Wednesday Pickups 3/16/11

Eight books again this week because I forgot to grab T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents (and then after writing all this realized I missed another book which will be put in next week), which I'm starting to think I did subconsciously to make this a nice symmetrical group.

Starting off with DC, we have Brightest Day #22. Continuing it's string of character wrap up issues, BD #22 gives us the final showdown between Firestorm and Deathstorm. As usual the art is really good but the narrative just felt rushed compared to the others that have been ongoing here. There was one moving scene but the rest really felt like filler. That said, I am still looking forward to these last few issue of Brightest Day, if only just to see how all this white lantern hoopla ends up.

Continuing the DC double feature, we have Red Robin #21. Concluding The Rabbit Hole arc, Tim finds how Mikalek got the Uternet back online but taking it back might cost four innocent men their lives and minds. Despite the awkwardness of the Teen Titans cross over taking place during this arc, I really enjoyed how it ended up. Nicieza and To give us another action packed issue that still manages to build the characters involved. Pulling over time on this issue though, are Guy Major's colors that give it a really appealing and vibrant look.

Heading over to Vertigo, we have The Unwritten #23. Tommy's search for answers continues, this time from the inside of a whale with of some of literature's most famous whale prisoners keeping him company. Another great issue in this series, one that has yet to disappoint. Carey and Gross somehow always manage to answer a question not only with another question but with one that makes you reflect on the "answers" you've previously received. Almost as enjoyable as the issue itself, is the letters section in which Carey and Gross each discuss the departure of the book's editor Pornsak Pichetshote. A guiding force for the book since the beginning, his touch will definitley be missed as he moves on to other work.

From Image, we have Hack/Slash #2. Cassie and Vlad do battle with the revived Acid Angel while Cat Curio gets into a little scrape of her own back in Eminence, Indiana. More hot and sexy slasher action from Tim Seeley and Daniel Leister, this universe continues to be a fun read. Looking forward to more in the future and, eventually, digging in to the Vol. 1 omnibus I bought late last year.

Going back in the alphabet to Icon, we have Casanova: Gula #3. Zephyr Quinn kills her way to daddy dearest as we find out what Xeno's endgame with these assassinations is. Another great issue from Matt Fraction and Fabio Moon, featuring the former's confusing but enjoyable storyline and the latter's beautifully whimsical art. This series is just so crazy and out there that I consistently fail as trying to say why I like it, suffice to say that everyone should just go check it out. As usual, a contender for top book of the week but decided to go with something I will get to a bit later.

Moving into the home stretch with the Marvel books, we have Fear Itself Prologue: Book of the Skull One-Shot. In current times Sin, the daughter of Red Skull, is tracking down a magical book that her farther used in the World War II era; Meanwhile, in flashbacks, we see the Red Skull using said book and being tracked by the Invaders. I've been debating with myself as to whether I want to pick up a lot of Marvel's next big event, and I have to say this prologue didn't really sell me on it. While the art looked great (pencils by Scot Eaton, inks by Mark Morales, and colors by Sunny Gho) the premise and the road it starts to venture down just don't grab me. However, if you are more into the Norse Gods in the Marvel U you might like where it's heading quite a bit more. As for me, I think I might pick up some of the X-related tie ins (big surprise there) and leave the rest on the shelf.

Speaking of X-Books, next up is Uncanny X-Force #5.1. Taking a break for the current story line, this perfect introductory issue to the team (hence the .1) treats us to X-Force getting a little revenge on Lady Deathstrike and the Reavers for their previous encounters. While I don't think it was the right move to put this out in the middle of another storyline, it is a great one off issue none the less. Remender continues his spot on (or subtle changing) of the character's personalities while Rafel Albuquerque (an artist who has been mentioned a lot here in conjunction with American Vampire) lets the blood and bullets fly with his spectacular art. If you've been hearing all the hype about Uncanny X-Force and are looking to give it a try, this is the issue for you.

Last up, and honest shocker as pick of the week, is Iceman & Angel One-Shot from Marvel. Back in the younger days, as still X-Boys that are wet behind the ears, Bobby and Warren end up spending Spring Break in New York but, as we all know, the Marvel U New York is never a boring place. Written by Brian Clevinger with art by Juan Doe, this comic is the perfect combination of humorous lines and old school, monster fighting artwork. If your a fan of these two X-men at all (confession: I am huge one) or just like to enjoy a classic, funny adventure every once in a while give this issue a shot.

That is it for this week's books but I should have a post soon about some of the stuff I checked out at C2E2 last weekend, so be on the look out for that.

Wednesday Pickups 2/16/11

[Announcer's Voice]Coming in at nine books, zero trades, this stack packs quite a wallop with its floppy stock and chiseled right angles. Hailing from the slightly slushy streets of Chicago's south suburbs, this cartel of comics contains books new and old, bright and dark, DC and other, THE COMICS OF FEBRRUUUUUUARY SIXTEENTH, TWENTY ELEVENNNNN![/Announcer's Voice]


We start things off this week with Green Lantern Corps #57, the conclusion of The Weaponer storyline. The small group of Green Lanterns stand with The Weaponer and Thunders of Quard against Sinestro and his corps, but will it be enough or will the truce be broken and ignite another War? Guest staring Firestorm (on loan from Brightest Day) we get an answer, and all too quickly. With the slow build the arc has been utilizing, this final issue seems out of place wrapping everything up too nicely and not really justifying one character's major choice. Tyler Kirkham's pencils, brilliantly assisted by BATT's ink and Nei Ruffino's colors, looked spectacular but Tony Bedard's story seems like it was rush to conclusion (possibly for the crossover starting next month, War of the Green Lanterns.) While I've really been digging the title lately I think this upcoming crossover gives me a nice opportunity take a break from the book, along with our next book.

Moving over to GLC's slightly older brother we have Green Lantern #62. Concluding The New Guardians arc, this issue finds Hal and his colorful buddies going toe to toe with Krona, the former guardian who accidentally created the anti-matter universe and is now after the Entities. Contrary to most of this arc, I really enjoyed this final issue. As usual, Doug Mahnke's art looks great and Geoff Johns writing showed some of the chops I first started liking him for, including an unexpected result for the battle and a tough choice for Hal Jordan. That said, the good here just doesn't out weight the "meh" I've been getting from the book lately. Going to take a break from this as well, both to check out some other stuff on the stands and to see if I really miss it that much.

Next up is one book that won't be leaving for the foreseeable future, Booster Gold #41 (now you can laugh at that bad future pun.) Rip decides it's time Booster pays his debt for stealing all the future tech that allowed him to be come a super hero but the Nazi he recently displaced from the forties has other plans. Really been enjoying this book and as previously mentioned, that shows no signs of stopping. Giffen, DeMatteis, Batista, and Perrotta make for wonderful writing and artistic duos that seem to bring new things to the table all the time. This issue illustrates exactly how far this character has come, as Booster treats the villain as a pest in the same manner major villains used to do to him. Maybe becoming a bit to big for his britches though, the ending comes as a bit of surprise to us and him, but trusting this creative team I known it has a purpose.

Rounding out the DC books this week is Brightest Day #20, the conclusion of Aquawar. Arthur and Jackson stand as the land's last defense from Black Manta, Siren, and her invading army of banished Atlantians; but they might not prove to be enough with out a helping hand from some friends. Art, as usual from Ivan Reis and Joe Prado, is great with the highlight being a two-page splash of Aquaman leading the local sea life on the charge. The story on the other hand, from Johns and Tomasi, might be showing the first signs of falling apart. Very similar to the end of Hawkman and Hawkgirl's story, Aquaman comes to a flat stopping point and seems to hint that every other character's will follow suit. It remains to be seen but if this is the case, the series end probably won't be up my alley.

Heading over to IDW, we have The Suicide Forest #3 of 4. Our two protagonists finally meet, and in the title location no less, as Ryoko and the other park rangers comes across Alan with forest spirits not far behind. Really enjoyed the pacing of this issue as it begins the final act of this supernatural horror comic in a rough and deadly fashion. Gabriel Hernandez art works perfectly with the setting, causing the reader to lose himself in the woods along with the characters and feel the cold darkness in the final panels. Can't wait to see how it all turns out next month, as in true to the medium we are left with quite the cliffhanger.

Moving along, to my favorite title from Archia, we have Cyclops #4 of 8. Pistoia and his soldiers are sent to the latest United Nations involved war theater. While on the surface Pistoia appears to be darker and less caring his internal conflict has reached a boiling point. This fantastic series keeps going with another great entry. While its been present all along, the most prominent feature of this issue is the strong use of panel structure. For the sex scene, it heightens the thrill while letting us in on a secret; when the men make a discovery in the forest, it simultaneously horrifies and provides the laugh track of the viewers at home; when Pistoia goes searching for answers; it illuminates the past with the flashlight beam while leaving the now in the dark. Definitely looking forward to the second half of the mini-series and where it goes.

Uptight #2, published by Fantagraphics and created by Jordan Crane, shows up with another set of short stories accompanied by a slick cover. In "Take Me Home" a young man is plagued by the memories of one fateful night, while "Before They Got Better" introduces us to a grandfather who's slowly losing his patience with family squabbles. Lastly, we get another installment of "Keeping Two" where the guy's imagination runs even wilder about the whereabouts of his girlfriend. Found myself enjoying this issue more than the first one. While the art retains the simple black and white style, especially the great use of shadow in "Take Me Home", I found the stories here more interesting and direct. Will make sure to grab #3 for next week.

Getting into Marvel's wares, we have Hawkeye: Blindspot #1 of 4. Since his trip to Russia, Hawkeye's aim has been a bit off, due to a nasty blow to the back of the head. Now the big brains have figured out his vision is deteriorating due to an inoperable pressure build up and if things weren't bad enough, villains from his past return looking for blood. Enjoying this story and re-telling of Clint's past so far. I think it definitley shows more focus than Widowmaker with just Jim McCann handling the writing, with the only questionable aspect being who he sets up as the major antagonist (however, I might be the only one that thinks that due to my lack of knowledge of the character.) The art holds its own as well, drawn by Paco Diaz and colored by Tomeu Morey, with little touches such as the faded newspaper look of the past or the enhanced vision goggles bright colors endearing it even more to me. If we can't have Hawkeye and Mockingbird back as a book, Blindspot is a pretty good replacement.

Pick of the week also comes from Marvel, Uncanny X-Force #5. Kicking off a new arc, Deathlok Nation, we get a bit more insight into the enigma that is Fantomex while the rest of team struggles over how their first mission ended. One of the best things about Rememder's writing on this book is he let's me enjoy every character, not just the ones I normally do. While I've never been a big fan of Deadpool, Rememder's Deadpool is a likable character and even more so for a great moment he has in this issue. That would be enough to keep me on the book but Esad Ribic's art rocks it just as much. From action packed battle scenes to the memorabilia filled Cavern-X (like a loving homage to the batcave), he keeps the viewer engaged and conveys just as much of the story as his writing partner. If every X-Book was as solid as this, Namor, and New Mutants I could easily see myself going back to the days of getting every one of them.

That's it for this week but if you like what you read make sure to stop by again, same time and place. As usual comments, critiques, and suggestions can be left below or sent to talesofthegeeklanterncorps@gmail.com Now, I'm off to get started on reading next week's books. Psychic prediction- Crossed: Psychopath #1 nabs the top spot. ;)

Wednesday Pickups 1/19/11

Very small stack this week but still some good comics, so lets get to it:



First up is Brightest Day #18. Hawkman and Hawkgirl are finally free of the curse but their troubles aren't over yet as the latter's mother now battles them with the Zamaron's entity. Back on earth, Boston's ring's power level begins rising and it isn't necessarily a good thing. Another good issue from the BD crew, that offers both touching and heart-breaking moments. Don't want to get into spoilers on exactly what happened but this will definitely be remember as one of the key issues of the series.

Only other DC book this week, as evidenced by the symbol covers above, is Green Lantern Corps #56. The Sinestro Corps show up to the party on Qward, and things get a little dicey trying to maintain the truce between them and the GLC. More spectacular art from Tyler Kirkham while Tony Bedard's story keeps things fun read. Nothing really new to say about the title but its maintains its high quality month in and month out.

Heading over to Image, we have Memoir #1 of 6. Written by Ben McCool (great name) and illustrated by Nikki Cook, this mini-series follows jaded journalist Trent MacGowan as he goes on assignment to investigate the small town of Lowesville. What makes Lowesville so special? Ten years ago everyone in town had a mysterious lapse in memory and Trent is here to find out why. I really like the premise but the comic just seems ok and doesn't really live up to it. Going to pass on the rest of this mini but if I ever see it collected and on sale, I might give it another try.

Branching into the Marvel creator-owned imprint, Icon, we have Scarlet #4. Scarlet pulls the trigger on this revolution and takes to the streets, first the digital ones and followed by the real ones. Meanwhile, the police are hot on her trail but in no hurry to bring her in alive if you catch my drift. Another solid issue from Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev, sort of like a modern-day V for Vendetta that feels believable. Really recommend checking out this title for the rable rowser deep inside everyone.

Part two of our Icon double feature is Superior #4. Madeline Knox, star television reporter, does everything short of dancing naked in the street (much to this reviewer's dismay) to get an exclusive interview with Superior but does she take one-fatal step to far? Still enjoying this book, while I don't necessarily agree with its advertising tag line of "The Best Book On The Stands" it is an enjoyable read.

Last up and pick of the week is Cyclops #2 of 8 from Archaia, making it 2 for 2 on taking the top spot. New recruit Douglas Pistoia gets into the thick of things on his first mission out, causing the nation (and the CEOs counting on him as a symbol) to hold their breath. Loving this book from Matz (writer) and Luc Jacamon (illustrator.) Its balance of battlefield action and home viewer response/television host critiques makes for a great read. Looking forward to the 6 remaining issues and if you haven't checked this book out yet do so immediately.

That is it for the week, not the greatest one but not the worst either. Usual routine; questions, comments, or critiques can be left below or sent to me at talesofthegeeklanterncorps@gmail.com Next week features a ton of mutant books and a certain fantastic four issue that is making headlines.

Wednesday Pickups 11/3/10

After last week's double post, this one is going to take a step back with only six books. The good news, however, is that all six were quality comics and well worth your money so lets get right to them.


First up is Marvel's first and my favorite avenging son, Namor: The First Mutant #3. Going on the offensive this issue, Namor and his Royal Guard take the battle to the Aqeuos (basically vampires under the sea, fun fact: they first appeared in deleted scenes from The Little Mermaid.) Their plan to ultimately deal with the vermin hits a snag however when a familiar face shows up. All in all, another solid issue of this series. Like I've said before I am really digging the way Stuart Moore is writing Namor as not just an eternally pissed off ruler. In perfect compliment, is the art from Ariel (resisting a second little mermaid reference only because this dude's art rocks) Olivetti and a few pages from Fernando Blanco. If your not reading this book, at least give it a flip through at the shop to see how awesome they handle drawing an underwater world.

Sticking with Marvel we have the final issue of a series I hope returns soon, Hawkeye & Mockingbird #6. When we last left this Bonnie and Clydesque couple they had decided to call it quits and head there separate ways; this issue goes into why they made that decision and whether it was the right one. Another book I've talked about in length here before, I just wish it didn't have to end so soon. Jim McCann (writer) and David Lopez (penciler) were really hitting a nice stride with the characters. Originally they were going to continue the series with #7 and #8 crossing over with Black Widow but it appears that was changed to both titles pausing for a mini-series titled Widowmaker. Not entirely sold on picking it up yet, but if McCann is writing I probably will.

Moving over to the distinguished competition, we have DC's Brightest Day #13. Now I know I harped on this book last issue for focusing on only one story line, hoping they would go back to spreading the panel time, but this issue really pulled it off in my opinion. Staying off world, like of Mars last issue, this time Hawkworld is the location with Hawkman and Hawkgirl taking center stage. Its probably just because I care about the main characters a bit more than Martian Manhunter, but this issue definitely brought me back into the book. Looking forward to next issue, with the possibility of certain caped crusader donning a white ring!

Speaking of caped crusaders, next up is Batman and Robin #16. Bruce is back, Dick has been shot in the head (giggle), Damien is still tearing sh*t up, and the final mysteries of Doctor Hurt's past are revealed! Everything Grant Morrison has been working to so far pays off leading into the next era of Batman, he's plans to go corporate and my resume is already in the mail. Art was great as well this issue with Cameron Stewart, Chris Burnham, and Frazer Irving all turning in pages; Irving's art was a lot more enjoyable in a smaller portions than running the length of the issue as in the past few. While I won't be picking up to many Batman Incorporated titles, I will be staying on Batman and Robin for a while to see what's in store for Dick and Damien.

Next up is America's favorite, new, red headed, rebel with a cause; Scarlet #3. Picking up right where she left off, Scarlet plans to further expose the corrupt police responsible for her lover's young life cut short. Her handy work from last issue has been found and the powers that be are looking to speak with her, but they might want to be careful what they wish for. Think I've said it previously, but I'm loving this latest Icon title from Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev. The story and art just flow so smoothly and always leave one craving more. Still early in the series so I highly recommend you jump on this wild ride. It would have been my pick of the week but it was narrowly beat out by a comic that is no stranger to the top spot.

Pick of the week, even if I went by just covers, is Avatar Press' Crossed: Family Values #5. After the run in with the other beings that are still people, and I use the word lightly, last issue; the group holds up in a hospital for Hannah and Kate to each give birth. Still worried about their other brother Joesph, Addy and Matt head out to see if they can reach him before he gets to the hell that is New Paradise. I've said it before, I love this book even though most people would lose their lunch from viewing some of the images it contains. David Lapham (writer) and Javier Barreno (artist) continue to amaze me with this beautifully grotesque comic, not just with the unique ways of showing blood and guts but the way it examines humanity. I can't rightfully recommend this to every one, I would probably lose a lot of friends if I did, but if you think you can handle it, give it or the Crossed Vol.1 TPB a try. Just keep one thing in your mind while reading it, the Crossed do nothing humans haven't already done or still do.

That wraps another week of funny (or not so funny) pages goodness. Comments, critiques, and suggestions are all welcomed below. Now if you'll excuse me I hear some comics podcast calling my name. Check out Burnt Weiners and The Pull List, two awesome comics podcast. It's sort of like reading this blog except they're a lot funnier, more knowledgeable about the subject, and have crossed into the world of sound!

Wednesday Pickups 10/6/10

Really small stack this week but it is full of some awesome comics.


First up from Veritgo is American Vampire #7. I have already gushed about this book in previous posts and this issue maintains that level of deserved praise, so just pretend I wrote it all again. Something I don't think I have mentioned yet is how great this book is at blending vampire stories into a time period. In the first arcs it was early Hollywood and "The West" while the current story line takes a look at the beginnings of sin city and the Hoover Dam being built. Overall this book is just another perfect example of the work Vertigo puts out every month.

Next up is DC's Brightest Day #11. Art is still awesome and the narrowing down to two story-lines per comic, something that has been solidifying over the last few issues, has really helped the flow of the overall narrative. This issue brings us the return of a few familiar faces, which I am not really excited about but don't hate either so I am willing to see where it goes.

Heading over to Marvel, we kick their books off with Hawkeye & Mockingbird #5. It has been said many places but this comic just oozes fun and you should definitely be giving it a shot. In addition to the fun factor, David Lopez's art every issue has been great especially the action sequences. Again the books leaves us with a great cliff hanger anxiously awaiting next's month's installment.

Moving into my new books, with this one only getting picked up after flipping through it at the shop, we have Ultimate Thor #1. Never been a big Thor fan and Ultimate Marvel books haven't been great recently so this should have been an easy pass for me. At the shop though the cover caught my eye, which got me to flip through it, which got me to buy it, which resulted in me really enjoying it. The combination of Jonathan Hickman's story and Carlos Pacheco's art has a real epic and grand feel that fits the Norse god of thunder, especially the battle scenes. Definitely going to pick up the next issue, hoping they keep it up.

Lastly and pick of the week is Uncanny X-Force #1. I was little hesitant when I first read about this comic as I had really come to enjoy the previous X-Force team, have no love for Deadpool, and haven't read anything from Rick Remender or Jerome Opena. It was inevitable that I would pick it up though since I couldn't miss Archangel and Psylocke being back together in the same book (and bed coincidentally.) Long story short: I Love This Book! It holds on to that the feeling of X-Force but Remender and Opena also manage to put their own personal touch on it that makes it feel unique. Can't wait to see where they these two creators go with two of my favorite x-men and one of my favorite x-villains. So if you were holding back or didn't want to pick up another x-book, I implore you to give Uncanny X-Force a shot. They even manage to make Deadpool bearable.

Closing time once again and while you don't have to go home, you do have to go out to your local shop and pick up next week's comics since I do as well. See you back in here in 7 days or less or the next post is free.