August 2012 Alternate Comics Diamond Previews Review part 2
Last but certainly not least is the fourth and final look at the Previews with solicitations for October. There are so many reasons to be excited about comic books at the moment and the back of the book has several reasons.
The first one comes from Amaze Ink/Slave Labor Graphics with a book that is my Back of the Book – Pick of the Month. Elmer GN tells the story about a world quite like ours with one exception, the chickens of this world have gained intelligence and consciousness similar to the human population. This story tells the tale of a segment of the population that has to fight for rights for themselves, and be considered equal in a world that at one time viewed them as nothing more than a food source. This reflects allot of the fights that people around the world are fighting in an attempt to gain basic human rights. Can human rights be shared with chickens or will they be relegated to the role of second class citizen? This is a must buy and part of me is wishing that it was a monthly, the story possibilities are endless. Gerry Alonguilan is the creative team as he provides the writing, art, and covers.
Archaia is bringing back one of the best sci-fi creations (in my opinion) with the hardcover book Space: 1999 – Aftershock and Awe. Combining classic material from the 1970’s with new material included to make it a tale for a modern audience. The moon is hurled out of orbit and now the world must deal with the scientific, environmental and social repercussions of the disaster.
Boom Studios have a hit on their hands with The Hypernaturals and once you read the latest sci-fi epic from writers Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, with art by Tom Derenick, and Andres Guinaldo you will understand how a science fiction epic should be put together. The mysteries are coming fast and there are wonderful moments of character development that really allow the reader to embrace the world, the characters, and the stories.
Valiant Entertainment is quickly becoming one of my favorite publishers and if you check out some of their offerings I am confident you will feel the same. The stories are layered, and you just know that the world was well thought out and the characters feel real. The art for the line is consistent and of highest quality. Harbinger, written by Joshua Dysart, with art by Khari Evans brings us the story of the world’s most powerful psionic and his struggle against both his master, and the Alpha to his Omega, Toya Harada, a man that seemingly has everything.
Bloodshot’s first issue intrigued me beyond belief and I cannot wait to find out if the title characters life is all fake or what, if any, of it is real. Duane Swierczynski is weaving an intricate tale that shows a promise of amazing things to come. Manuel Garcia on art is a wonderful pairing with Duane. Manuel’s layouts and character designs bring a believable edge to a world of superhero’s and espionage.
Valiant is going to be rolling out hardcover collections of some of its original series and Valiant Masters: Bloodshot Vol. 1 HC – Blood of the Machine is the first. This 200 page collection includes the original 8 issue Bloodshot series from 1994, and a brand new story from the original creative team of Kevin VanHook and Don Perlin. Another bonus of this volume is a cover from Barry Windsor-Smith. This is an excellent opportunity to relive the original days of Valiant.
That’s it for the Previews soliciting October product. I am in the process of paring down my monthlies in an attempt to make room for some of the Marvel Now! Series and a bit more of a focus on the collections. I’ll be back in a couple of weeks when we turn our attention to the product for November is reviewed, including allot more of the Marvel Now! Launch.
My Alternate Pull List part 2
Amaze Ink/Slave Labor Graphics
Elmer GN
Archaia Entertainment
Space: 1999 – Aftershock and Awe HC
Archie Comic Publications
Kevin Keller Volume 1: Welcome to Riverdale TP
Avatar
Fashion Beast
Hero Worship
Boom! Studios
The Hypernaturals
Steed and Mrs. Peel
Valiant
Archer & Armstrong
Bloodshot
Harbinger
Valiant Masters: Bloodshot Vol. 1 HC: Blood of the Machine