What Do You Mean They're Not Superheroes?: Best Books You Didn't Read Last Week 12/29/08

Guerillas #3
Written & Art by: Brahm Revel

Alright. Go back to your store. Speak with the clerk who is there, talk with the Manager if you must. Have them order Guerillas #1, #2, & #3 for you right that very instant. This is going to be one of the best books you read ever. And you're not already reading it. As a matter of fact if you don't start reading it soon you might miss out on one of the most overlooked books of 2008 and what might be the best book of 2009. Brahm Revel has created one of the most unique and pleasurable reading experiences of my comic reading life (20 or so years long now ... I've been reading comics for 20 years?!?! ... I'm old). With his deceptively simple pencils and incredible hand at inking and grey toning he has managed to make an amazing visual style that suits perfectly the story he is telling. Which is equally as amazing. The story is at once a dark and frightening look at what it must have been to be a soldier in Vietnam ... constantly kept in the dark of what your future holds, always afraid of what lay around the next corner, lied to by those who were meant to be your leader. At the same time it's brilliant the way he has juxtaposed John Clayton's experience among his squad, that of being the man left out, with his experience among the chimps ... one of solitude of a whole different kind. This is easily one of the most satisfying comics that I have read in a very long time and I think that it is a tragedy that more people aren't reading it. Make sure you at least check it out, you can read the whole first issue over at Newsarama, once you've read it make sure that, if you haven't already, you go to your local comic store and have it ordered for yourself ... I'll know if you don't

ComicDorksCast Episode 047

ComicDorkscastEp047.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

Running Time: 01:31:30

• Wonder Woman #27 continues the Rise of the Olympian and the Fall of everyone's favorite Amazonian.
• Scott's Pick of the Week: Invincible #57
• Astounding Wolf-Man #11 picks up right where Invincible left off.
• Darren's Pick of the Week: Daredevil #114
• Batman #683 answers some questions but leaves plenty left to be solved.
• Rob's Pick of the Week: New Avengers #48.
• PREVIEWS!
• Brief Mentions
• Anticipated Books

If you have any questions or comments drop us a line at: Comicdorkscast@gmail.com

Go to www.FantasyShopOnline.com and check out the growing community on the Message Boards.

Check out our website at ComicDorksCast.Blogspot.com.

The Music at the opening and closing of the show was: "Party Barge" by Silver Jews.

Brief Mentions: Immortal Iron FIst #21

Immortal Iron Fist #21
Written by: Dwayne Swierczynski
Art by: Timothy Green II

Alright, you win Mr. Swierczynski ... I had every intention of dropping this book when the very respectable and incredibly interesting run by Mr. Fraction and Mr. Brubaker had ended. But oh no ... I had to read one more issue and see if this new guy was going to be any good ... and now 5 issues later it is still a top of the pile read (I read the books I am looking forward to the most first ... usually). This is really one of the books that has presented the most pleasant reading experience of the titles that I am following this year. Regular artist Travel Foreman has brought a sense of kinetic movement and style to the book that I wasn't sure I was going to like but lo and behold I find myself lingering on beautiful panels and wonderful pages every issue. This issue guest artist Timothy Green II brought his fantastic sense for sci-fi to the future of Iron Fist and brought a very big smile to my face (I admit that I was already a fan of his work, having read Annihilation: Star Lord). And if Mr. Swierczynski can keep things going the way that he has over the last 5 issues for the next year then allow me to assure you that it will be in the running for my favorite book of 2009!

From The Dorks Soundtrack: (They Say You’re At Large or The Two for One Holiday Lazy Ass Quote of the Week and Soundtrack Special)

Song for Episode:
# 47 –“Party Barge”

Performed by -Silver Jews

From the Album –Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea


“Hello, my friends. Hello, my friends. Come on have a seat.” The year was 1989. The setting was the University of Virgina. Three guys met and put a band togther. It just so happens that the band was the Silver Jews and the guys writer/musician David Berman with his friends, guitarist/singer Stephen Malkmus and drummer Bob Nastanovich. That is just nine years after my birth and five years after well… let’s just say, “In 1984 I was hospitalized for approaching perfection.” Since the beginning of the Silver Jews many different folks have come and gone but Berman remains. Some of you might recognize a couple of the names I listed prior from a band called Pavement. (Which will be my next pick and if anyone chooses Pavement in the next two weeks they win one free shot to their band-aids.) Names will be listed later in this blog log. To escape the Pavement shadow alias were used on Silver Jews albums. The funny thing is that my sources (reliable or not) tell me that Pavement came after Silver Jews. Listen to me, I will only say this once, “Silver Jews should in no fashion ever be seen as a side project.” Those of you who do… well… I guess… sorry you’re wrong.

David Berman is a clever, clever wordsmith. I’ll admit it took me a little while to catch on to what was happening while listening to the Silver Jews. Beyond his work with the Silver Jews, Berman is a cartoonist and an all around American poet, in every sense of those words even generally speaking. He has told us that “Pain works on a sliding scale” and that “so does pleasure in a candy jail.” He has gone as far as admitting, “true love doesn’t come around anymore than fate allows.” Let us not forget that “true love ain’t about getting yelled at all weekend.” He reminds us that “fast cars, fine ass these things will pass and it won’t get more profound.” As well as, that “time is a game only children play well” and raises the question “how can I love you if you won’t lie down?” Speaking of which, Berman is a man that realizes that “everybody’s going down on themselves there’s no pardon me’s or fare the wells in the end.” He helps us on those days when you’re sitting around “and you got that one idea again. The one about dying.” He sings to us and we think “I’m gonna turn my guns around. I’m not the deadest man in town.” He helps us see that “when the sun sets on the ghetto all the broken stuff gets cold” and that “the alleys are the footnotes of the avenues.” David Berman is the type of fella that comes right out and says, “I know that a lot of what I say has been lifted off of men’s room walls.” I’m still waiting for him to drop the name Cap’n Clet. Needless to say, David Berman is a man to look into. All you Pavement fans should know that the cd you have called Slanted and Enchanted got its name from a Berman cartoon. How’s that for a F.Y.I?

Anyone who is a fan of great words, some sad others hopeful but all well placed, and great music should give the Silver Jews a go. Their sound varies from rock to folk, which, only adds to the overall enjoyment of your listening experience. I believe that Silver Jews shows are hard to come by, though it seems to be getting a little better now but if you ever have a chance you better take it. I did a few years ago at the Duck Room and saw one of the top 5 shows I have seen at Blueberry Hill. If nothing else is learned from this blog log at least be kind to the “suffering jukebox, such a sad machine. All filled up with what other people need” and “on the last day of your life don’t forget to die.” And if all else fails and "If you need a friend to get through the night toot on your horn or flash on your brights. Honk if you're lonely tonight.”

-Rob

He is published. Here is proof.

Silver Jews

Members
David Berman Cassie Berman Former members
Tim Barnes Pete CummingsTony CrowDuaneDenisonDoug EasleyJill FantauzzaMike FellowsMatt HunterBrian KotzurPaz LenchantinDan MacktaStephen MalkmusDavis McCainRian MurphyBob NastanovichPaul NiehausWill OldhamPeyton PinkertonAndra ShermanChris StroffolinoWilliam TylerSteve WestJ.D. WilkesAzita Youssefi

Albums
Starlite Walker (1994) LP/CD
The Natural Bridge (1996) LP/CD
American Water (1998) LP/CD
Bright Flight (2001) LP/CD
Tanglewood Numbers (2005) LP/CD
Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea (2008) LP/CD
EPs
The Arizona Record (1993) CD/12"
Tennessee (2001) CD/12"

Singles
"Dime Map Of The Reef" (1990) 7"
"Silver Jews And Nico" (1993) split 7" with New Radiant Storm King
"Send in the Clouds" (1998) CD/7"
"Hot as Hell" (1999) CD/7"
Filmography
Silver Jew (2007)

What I'm Watching Now: Best. Christmas. Ever.

I hope you are all having a great holiday but i know that turkey is calling your name so i will keep this brief. Why is this the best Christmas ever you may ask? At around 10 o'clock this morning, I decided to turn on the television to see what was on. And what I saw made me the happiest person on the planet. Star Trek: The Next Generation marathon all day on the Sci-Fi Channel !!!!!! So go have a good Christmas! And From the Comic Dorks, "Live Long and Prosper!"

ComicDorksCast Episode 046

ComicDorkscastEp046.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

Running Time: 01:14:32

Supergirl #36 continues New Krypton with dire consequences.
Scott's Pick of the Week: Invincible Iron Man #8.
A hero is remembered while another gets filled in on what he missed in Mighty Avengers #21.
Darren's Pick of the Week: Hellblazer #250.
Walking Dead #56 proves that prolonged exposure to mullets may be damaging to one's sanity.
Rob's Pick of the Week: Ex Machina #40.
Make sure you head over to the message boards at www.fantasyshoponline.com to vote for the ComicDorksCast Best of 2008!
Brief Mentions
Anticipated Books

If you have any questions or comments drop us a line at: Comicdorkscast@gmail.com

Go to www.FantasyShopOnline.com and check out the growing community on the Message Boards.

Check out our website at ComicDorksCast.Blogspot.com.

The Music at the opening and closing of the show was: "It's Christmas! Let's Be Glad!" by Sufjan Stevens.

Episode 46 Will be Released Tomorrow

I forgot that I had to house sit starting tonight and so when I got home from work I had to pack up everything and head out to my friend Steff's house. So I didn't have the time I had allotted to finish editing the episode so it will be out tomorrow.

Much love and Happy Holidays!

-Scott

No Fail Twinkie for this one because I said so.

Brief Mentions: Dark Reign Has Begun

Uncanny X-Men
Written By: Matt Fraction
Art By: Terry Dodson

So now all Marvel fans are in the grips of Dark Reign. I was one of the few people I believe who actually liked the last couple pages of Secret Invasion #8. It was great to see Norman Osborn being evil again and instead of being a government lapdog. But with that being said, I will now turn your attention to that of Uncanny X-Men # 505 (Written by Matt Fraction and art by Terry Dodson). Since the beginning of my comic-reading career it has been hard for me to thoroughly enjoy an x-men book. With all the x-book crossovers and tie-ins and do-overs and under-dos or whatever, I have never been able to follow really what has been going on. This has confused me considering that two of my favorite writers have been working on both the x-men books (Brubaker & Ellis). With issue #505, I feel like I have a sense of what’s going on. This may be due to the fact that I actually did read the Secret Invasion story but it made me excited to actually get the next issue of Uncanny X-Men. As the team resides in San Francisco, the television is continuously bombarded with images of mutant hate and the idea of “mutant reproduction legislature” is introduced. The main focus of this issue is Emma Frost and exactly how she ended up at the Norman Osborn’s guest list. Frost is battling to find away to help her mutant people. After her dialogue with Cyclops, Frost decides to accept the “invitation” that we can only assume is Norman Osborn’s. Uncanny X-Men #505 is a great issue to begin reading this book, especially if you read Secret Invasion. This book is also testament to the great ability of Matt Fraction to write team books. Terry Dodson also adds great pencils to the series, which gives it a great look. Though X-Factor is still considered my favorite “x” book, Uncanny X-Men is a close second.

From The Dorks' Soundtrack: Sufjan Stevens

Music from Episode #46

Artist - Sufjan Stevens
Album - Songs for Christmas Vol. 1: Noel
Song - It's Christmas! Let's Be Glad!


When it came time to pick a song for this week's episode the Holiday spirit got the better of me. I am not a particularly religions person and haven't been for a very long time but there is something about a well put together Christmas song that will always do it for me. And when I think of great Christmas songs I don't think of the classics, I always think of the pop versions, the more secular songs. Even though Sufjan Stevens is quite clearly a very religious man he still manages to make some really fantastic universal holiday songs.

Stevens' Songs for Christmas is a 5 disc set of really great songs for the Holidays. Each of the 5 discs were originally released on their own throughout the beginning of Stevens' career but after his critically acclaimed album Illinois new fans clamored for older material by the incredible artist who crafts very dense, very intricate songs that make for amazing listening and re-listening.

Stevens began his musical career as a member of Marzuki, a folk-rock band from Holland, Michigan. He also played (and continues to play) various instruments for Danielson Famile. While in school at Hope College, Stevens wrote and recorded his debut solo album, A Sun Came, which he released on Asthmatic Kitty Records, a record label he founded with his stepfather. He later moved to New York City, where he was enrolled in a writing program at the New School for Social Research.

Beginning with Michigan, Stevens announced an intent to write an album for each of the 50 U.S. states, although in interviews he wavers between utter sincerity and self-deprecating irony when describing the idea.

Stevens spent the second half of 2004 researching and writing material for the second of these projects, this time focusing his efforts on Illinois. As with Michigan, Stevens used the state of Illinois as a leaping-off point for his more personal explorations of faith, family, love, and location. Though slated for general release on July 5, 2005, the album was briefly delayed by legal issues regarding the use of Superman in the original album cover artwork. In the double vinyl release, a balloon sticker has been placed over Superman on the cover art of the first 5,000 copies. The next printings had an empty space where the Superman image was, as with the CD release.

The widely acclaimed Illinois was the highest-rated album of 2005 on the Metacritic review aggregator site, based on glowing reviews from Pitchfork, The Onion A/V Club, Spin, Billboard, Entertainment Weekly, Rolling Stone, The New York Times, KEXP, and The Guardian. The 2006 PLUG Independent Music Awards awarded Stevens with the Album Of The Year, Best Album Art/Packaging, and Male Artist Of The Year. Pitchfork Media, No Ripcord, and Paste Magazine named Illinois as the editors' choice for best album of 2005 and Stevens received the 2005 Pantheon prize, awarded to noteworthy albums selling fewer than 500,000 copies, for Illinois. In April 2006, Stevens announced that 21 pieces of music he had culled from the Illinois recording sessions would be incorporated into a new album, called The Avalanche, which was released on July 11, 2006.

"Sufjan Stevens is not going to write a record for each of the 50 states after all" was the original text included on the online liner notes for their Mews Too: An Asthmatic Kitty Compilation disc released on February 7, 2006. This statement was possibly included as a joke, as the text has since been removed and the current liner notes related to Stevens reads, "18. Sufjan Stevens can fold a fitted-sheet (he once worked as a professional folder in a commercial laundromat)."

In an article published on February 24, 2008 in New York Magazine, Stevens implied that New Jersey could be the target of his next state project. After he gave a brief quote about the New Jersey Turnpike, he was asked, "So is this the next musical project?" Sufjan joked, "New Jersey, the musical—an ode to the turnpike."

... So ... I may or may not have cribbed some of that from Wikipedia ... so ... whatever ...

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS!

The Best of 2008 ComicDorksCast Style!

WE NEED YOUR VOTES!

That's right it's time for you to head over to the message boards at www.fantasyshoponline.com and make your voice heard!
Click HERE and vote on all the voting categories for the Best of 2008 ComicDorksCast Episode that we will record in early January! Make sure you listen because there will be plenty of categories that are not up for voting that each of us will give you our thoughts on!

JOIN IN THE FUN!

Blog Log # 2 (Quote of the Week)

(A special holiday edition of Side Burneius The Mundane.)

Side Burneius The Mundane

Qoutact III


The winter was coming down hard on the land. The gods must be tired of sweating for they have frozen the water they pour upon us mortals from on high. Warriors have returned from battle for the winter festivities to lay down their blades and pick up their axes. Though the spirits where high there was a tension, much like a tempting doom, circling the air. Could these warriors converge on the brink of a whole new realm? A much rockier land of magical cacophonies and as many slays a slayer could ever dream of. What trials lie ahead for these men amongst men? Will the nymphs tempt our slayers only to find that the slayers are mirens? (that’s the dude version of sirens) That is enough rambling for now. Our heroes’ journey shall unravel to us in time.

(It is feast time and Side Burneius enters the dining hall to find Mollyandria, Metropolis, Dayarian, Scotavius, Christos The Cajun, and Samazon, oh wait he couldn’t make it.)

Hello my love you look absolutely ravishing.

“Thank you” said Dayarian.

Always with the funny aren’t we, Dayarian? I was speaking of Mollyandria. I see Samazon could not be with us. Greeks! (uproar of laughter from all) Let us eat up this food so Dayarian can enlighten us all with his battle stories.

(eating happens and we find Mollyandria, Side Burneius, and Dayarian sitting alone by the fire. Who knows what everyone else as up to. Making a ruckus is what they were up to.)

“These are dark a desperate times” Dayarian.

“Agreed.” I heard you received word from Christos today.

Yes I did. He had many kind words. I hear he is a fine warrior with fantastic hair. I’m sure he would say “Just part of my charm.” But with a lot of asterisks, he wrote like a sailor… nay… a pirate. Enough about him, tell me if the tales I have heard from you.

Which would you like to hear Burneius?

How about this dragon story I have been told? Is it true you back handed Beowulf half way up the Mountain.
Yes sir. But he still beat me to the dragon. Guess that’s why I am still amongst the living. What silly King Beowulf was.

So you saw Beowulf fall with eyes of your own?

It is an image I see every time I close my eyes. Then, I laugh and remember that, though his subjects have twisted the tale, I killed that dragon. With my own bare hands. It was a savage scene that was that beast’s body lying in a pool of its evil blood. In the distance I could hear Beowulf’s dying words. Ha… Beowulf ? Why don’t you ever hear the stories about how I saved him from Grendel.Or how I beat him with Grendel’s arm because he hid under a table in the mead hall. And Grendel’s Mother… That was I too. She blew my I Phone up for months, that’s why she had to die. In the end it does not matter whatever gods we believe in, they will know whom the true hero is. The thing is I care not if I am a hero. I am Dayarian The Tiger. That is all the title I shall ever need.

Dayarian, brother you killed a dragon with your hands alone? No Blade? No Spear? No Light Saber?

Yes, Burneius. It was brutal. I sat by the corpse for many hours cursing Apollo and his whole family. Covered in dragon blood I screamed at them “… Don’t let me kill again.”
Eventually, I got my senses back and stuffed my bag with some gold and went looking for some nymphs. Hades, I would have kept company with the furies, at that point. As long as there were at least three of them, of course.

I don’t believe my ears Dayarian. I had no idea you were a man who have conquered such feats. Speaking of feats. What happened when you found the sirens?

I could not tell those tales with Mollyandria in earshot.

She doesn’t Mind.

“I am gonna punch you in the heart.” Side Burneius.

You know I kid, Mollyandria. So… then maybe another time, Dayarian?

Yes sir. I love to relive those glorious days. And someday I may tell you of my adventures with my Cyclops friend.

(A photographer’s depiction of the Fate of Dayarian.)

What I’m Reading Now: Azzarello’s Joker = Scary as Hell

Joker
Written By: Brian Azzarello
Art By: Lee Bermejo

So, yea…. Still watchin' Batman a lot. And I decided this time that maybe some supplemental film reading was in order. Last Month, DC Comics released Joker HC. Written By Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets, Loveless) and Lee Bermejo (Lex Luthor: Man of Steel), Joker is an original graphic novel that reflects the realistic and gritty Gotham as depicted in the Christopher Nolan films. But wait just a second, in several interviews the creative team of Azzarello & Bermejo, stated that their concept for Joker was actually developed before the original screen shots of Heath Ledger’s Joker. So they ain’t no posers (double negative!). One of the great aspects of this story is that it is from the prospective of one of Joker’s henchmen, Johnny Frost. Frost is a tough character to categorize. At first he is a sympathetic character, and by the end you are screaming at the pages at him for being apart of a group that ultimately ends six feet under. Through Frost’s eyes, we see Gotham’s underworld and the criminal masterminds that reside within. In the beginning of the story, Joker is released from Arkham and wages bloody warfare to regain his influence and territory. And I know what your thinking, “If it’s an OGN I don’t have to do any back reading”…. WRONG! LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL, LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL, LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL. So yea…read it. Lex Luthor: Man of Steel was a five issue miniseries created in 2005 by the same creative team. This story made me the Lex Luthor fan I am today. It is a great story that makes you root for the wrong side. Throughout Joker, I was constantly reminded of that great story and should definitely be read before Joker. The two don’t necessarily relate to each other but it has the same tone and realness that makes Joker so unique. If you know anyone who likes the film The Dark Knight, this book is right up his or her alley (and x-mas is coming up **wink**). So dive into the twisted, demented world of the Joker and see a psychopath at work!

Living Up to Expectations: Avengers Initiative #19 and Dark Reign New Nation # One-Shot

*Editor’s Note: Due to the fact that Rob talks about Avengers Initiative a lot he will keep his review brief. Also, due to the fact that Scotty decided to have a competition, that Rob will not be participating in, by writing a wonderful post on Hellblazer you will not find any words about John. Check this out, Scott literally slapped Rob in the face and said, “I demand satisfaction!” True story, it was crazy. Lastly, we all know Rob is going to pick Birds of Prey for the show; therefore, Rob will write on a book he was not anticipating.

Avengers Initiative
# 19 “V-S Day”

Writers –Dan Slott and Christos N. Gage

Artists – Harvey Tolibao and Bong Dazo


This is a book I talk about often and with good reason. This book kicks ass! Issue # 19 was a perfect follow up to Secret Invasion. Right now you are thinking, “What about Dark Reign… dumbass?” Now hold on, hear me out. Where were the Skrulls? What are the Skrulls doing? Well, my friends, if you read Avengers Initiative # 19 you saw their side of the fight. As well as what the other Initiative teams were doing. Not to mention an excellent evolution of a great character. No, it is not Tippy-Toe, but Tippy-Toe is glorious all the same. Obviously, I still recommend this book to everyone who cares about great Marvel titles. How Dum Dum can a Dum Dum be?



Dark Reign: New Nation One-Shot (I refuse to put a #1 here but I guess I just did. Damn you DD! That’s a joke; I hope it’s funny.)

“Secret Warriors”

Writers –Brian Michael Bendis and Jonathan Hickman

Artist – Stefano Caselli


“Agents of Atlas”

Writer – Jeff Parker

Penciler –Carlo Pagulayan


“War Machine”

Writer – Greg Pak

Artist – Leonardo Manco

“Skrull Kill Krew”

Writer -Adam Felber

Penciler – Paulo Siqueira

“New Avengers: The Reunion”

Writer – Jim McCann (hope that 2nd ‘c’ is sposed to be small)

Penciler – David Lopez


Reminiscent of a book DC released, titled Brave New World, a while ago (You guys read that… I hope.), Dark Reign: New Nation was a perfect introduction into the world left in the wake of the Skrull invasion. This issue consisted of short stories, if you will, of what we can look forward to in the future of the Marvel Universe. I gotta say I’m a little excited to see what will become of my subtotals in the near future. (Why can’t you leave the poor man alone?)

This issue kicks off with a heart warming Warriors story. You saw the team, creative and heroic. What do you expect? I’ll tell you. Some more kick ass comic book reading… bye and bye. Two words with one ‘I’ … Nick Fury! Then, we get a glimpse of the Agents of Atlas. How perfect does that sound rolling off the tongue? Agents of Atlas… I shiver. Next it is War Machine, which is the only one I have not got to yet but I will. Yeah, I skip around… so what? Following the prior is a heart-warming story called Skrull Kill Krew. I assure you this story will be in my mind for many mooooooons! Lastly but not leastly, it’s New Avengers: The Reunion. (I add a ‘?’) This story was very intriguing and left me saying, “WHAT… THE… FUCK?” in a good way, of course. Overall, this was a well-packaged comic worth the raising rate of our issues as of late. Don’t think I haven’t noticed.

I do believe we will see our Marvel Universe in a whole new fashion with what lies ahead. I’m starting to see that last Secret Invasion issue as the beginning rather than a conclusion. Which raises the question, when was the last time Marvel actually concluded a big event? It doesn’t really matter anyway because after reading Dark Reign: New Nation, I know that there will be fun o'plenty to be had along this never ending journey that is The Marvel Big Event.
-Rob

What Do You Mean They Aren't Superheroes?: Sneak Peek Reviews: 12/16/08

Invincible Iron Man #8
Written by: Matt Fraction
Art by: Salvador Larroca

Alright, alright, alright … Matt Fraction is the man. I’ve said it before I know … but he proves it month in and month out on Invincible Iron Man. This is quite possibly the perfect book for a guy like Fraction. He loves bleeding edge technology and he loves futurist stories (is it any wonder that he got his start thanks to Warren Ellis’ message boards). Salvador Larroca also is proving that he can not only do a really gorgeous book but that it can also come out monthly with no visible loss in quality. Dark Reign is starting to look like it is going to actually be rather fun, and this is coming from someone who loves to poo-poo the big thing going on at Marvel these days. So, what is it about Dark Reign that I am finding exciting? I think it’s that Bendis and the rest of the writers at Marvel have finally found a way to reinvent the wheel when it comes to Super Villain Team-Ups. This story actually feels like the heroes have failed and that the bad guys might actually have something to offer to the rest of the world. It’s like the villains have gone from being mindless thugs to Hezbollah, all of a sudden they are clearly bad people but they have something to offer to the populace and so things get a bit shady for Joe Six Pack. Kudos to you Matt Fraction, kudos to you indeed.

Mighty Avengers #20
Written by: Brian Michael Bendis
Art by: Lee Weeks, Carlo Pagulayan, & Jim Cheung

There’s something about a funeral that I find fascinating, especially a fictional funeral. When a well loved character dies there is something about the way that an author decides to depict the mourning of that passing that makes for interesting reading. I think that it is safe to say that over the next year or so that THE character to watch at Marvel is Dr. Henry “Hank” Pym. He is a man who was just at the brink of having his life fall back into some semblance of normality when it was all roughly and rudely pulled out from underneath him. And once he came back he found that the world had become a much, much different place. Pym has been a character relegated to the background for far too long and I think that if anyone can find a way to make him rise back to prominence it is writers like Bendis, Slott and Gage … it’ll just be a matter of figuring out who gets to make this one time headliner, one time welcome mat, a headliner again. So, when you read the funeral for Janet Van Dyne think that it is not so much an end for one character as it is a rebirth for another.



Hellblazer #250
Written by: Dave Gibbons, Brian Azzarello, China Mieville, Jamie Delano, & Peter Milligan
Art by: Sean Phillips, Rafael Grampa, Giuseppe Camuncoli, David Lloyd, & Eddie Campbell

Who would have ever thought that a character like John Constantine would be able to sustain an ongoing series for over 20 years? When Alan Moore created the character in the pages of his historic (and criminally under read) run on Swamp Thing I doubt even he thought that the character would catch on so brilliantly. When you look back at the kinds of talent that have worked on the character in the last twenty years it should boggle your mind. Some of the most talented writers and artists to work in comics today have penned and penciled the character who is the quintessential loner. This is a fantastically timed anniversary issue that can double as a holiday issue. Each of these short stories really rather well put together and ultimately it makes a great time to start checking out the book. Here’s to another 250, cheers!

The ComicDorks put the awe in awesome… once again.

Us here at the ComicDorksCast, as professionals, tend to raise the bar from time to time. In the latest episode we show the world that an uncomfortable silence is actually a lovely thing. You see it allows you, the listener, time to prepare your face to be rocked. Speaking of rock, you might also notice that we hit on a subject that caused rock n roll to magically emerge out of thin air. That subject is Secret Six and it indeed rocks. With Secret Six being one of our favorite books, there is no need to worry because we will talk about this book plenty more. So sit back and enjoy the show. If your world seems to change while listening to this show, relax… it’s par for the course.
-Rob

That's right I just got to use my favorite picture of Scotty. Dreams do come true.

ComicDorksCast Episode 045

ComicDorkscastEp045.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

Another Long Episode!

Running Time: 01:33:14

• Secret Six #4 brought all the ice cream we could eat and so much more.
• Darren's Pick of the Week: Final Crisis #5
• Titans #8 proves that this book is well worth the price of admission.
• Rob's Pick of the Week: Secret Invasion: Dark Reign One Shot.
• Punisher: War Zone #1 puts the fun back in dysfunctional.
• Scott's Pick of the Week: Detective Comics #851.
• The Best Trade Paperbacks of November!
• Brief Mentions
• Anticipated Books

If you have any questions or comments drop us a line at: Comicdorkscast@gmail.com

Go to www.FantasyShopOnline.com and check out the growing community on the Message Boards.

Check out our website at ComicDorksCast.Blogspot.com.

The Music at the opening and closing of the show was: "Obstacle 1" by Interpol.

What Do You Mean They're Not Superheroes?: The Best Books You Didn't Read this Week, Still Injured

Elephantmen #14 came out last week, as did Lone Ranger #16, Green Arrow/Black Canary #15, and many other books that I would love to be writing about right now but having had my arm in a sling for a week means that my muscles have atrophied and that it hurts to do things ... like type ... so just make sure that you check some of those books out because they were all great and I think that some of you are still missing out on them.

-The Still Injured Scott

Brief Mentions: The Death-Defying Devil # 1

Plot, Cover and Art Direction by: Alex Ross

Plot and Script by: Joe Casey

Interior Art by: Edgar Salazar

Colors by: Romulo Fajardo Jr.

(Top: Alex Ross Cover, Below: John Cassaday Cover. These are only 2 of 8 covers in all.)

I would like to start by saying that I am a huge fan of Golden Age Characters. It is another amazing side effect of a book called Starman. I know… I know… here we go again with the Starman. To you I say… it’s not my fault that Starman is the canon of DC superhero comics. Getting back to the subject, there is a book called Project Superpowers that Dynamite is putting out. This book is perfect for fans like me or any fans of another book called The Twelve. Project Superpowers is reviving long lost characters from companies like Fox Comics, Crestwood Publications and Nedor Comics. Upon the conclusion of the first arc we are getting a few spinoff books that have seemed to be of the upmost importance of the world that is being created over there at Dynamite. The second of these books bridging the gap from the first and the second arc of Project Superpowers is The Death-Defying Devil.

The Death Defying-Devil # 1 finds our Golden Age hero in present day but it seems to be buisness as usaual. Meaning our hero can still kick a little ass. You see things are little bit different but the same sheenagins are present. Such as, shady people doing shady things; therefore, the Devil must open up a can of whoop ass. The real test comes when an interesting, yet familiar looking player enters the game. A fight ensues until the bright lights shine down from on high, leaving us wondering what or should I say whose ass will be kicked next. For more info about the character The Death-Defying ’Devil, Bart Hill click on his name listed previously in this sentence.

Needless to say, I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys superhero comics. As well as all the other spin offs of Project Superpowers, which for those of you who do not own the issues can now get a very handsome hardcover copy of the first arc. After you pick that up all you need to do is grab Black Terror #1, The Death-Defying Devil #1, and to keep your eyes peeled for The Masqurade, as told by Phil Hester, that will becoming soon. Also keep your eyes locked to this site for my full review of Project Superpowers from the beginning to the present coming soon… I promise. My very first From The Milk Crates? Maybe… just maybe it may be so.

-Rob

*From the editor’s desk: Due to the fact I have been called out on my horrible memory (cough… cough… you know who you are.) I am excited to tell you that I can’t wait to sit down and read all the Project Superpowers books. And when I finish my wonderful adventure I will tell the tale of this wonderful book by a wonderful team in great detail. For a man is only as good as his words. Now my words are “maybe I will maybe I won’t we will see what happens” but I am excited to write about this story that I believe to be underrated and over looked but definitely deserving of a blog log. I will get into that at a later date you have my words on that.

The Dorks’ Soundtrack: Getting Into Interpol

Song: Obstacle 1
Performed By: Interpol
Album: Turn The Bright Lights On

That’s right…I’m going alternative. Interpol, including Paul Banks (vocals/guitar), Daniel Kessler (back-up vocalist/ guitarist), Carlos Dengler (Bassist), Sam Fogarino (Drums), is an American alternative rock band formed in 1997 in New York City; the original line up including all NYU students. Their name has various origin stories but Paul Banks comments “it just sounds cool.” Through 1998 to 2001, Interpol released several EPs and finally caught the eye of indie label Matador, a label famous for bands such as Pavement. In 2002, Interpol released their first album Turn The Bright Lights On. It is from this album that the song for episode 45 comes from. This album gave Interpol instant success, reaching many ‘top 10’ lists throughout 2002 including Pitchfork’s “album of the year.” Two years later, Interpol came out with their second album, Antics. This album, including songs such as Slow Hands, Evil, C’mere, gave Interpol even more notoriety allowing them to play more shows in even bigger venues. In 2007, Interpol came out with their most recent album, Our Love To Admire. Not long after the albums release it secured #4 on the top 200 billboard charts. Interpol began to play large festivals including headlining at Lollapalooza Music Festival in Chicago. With only three albums under their belt, Interpol is essential listening for any fan of rock/alternative music. With simple sweeping guitar patterns and a great lyrical sense, Interpol has shown that they deserve the attention. Another great aspect of this band is that all members are integral parts to creating music for the band instead of just one chief writer. Interpol is an excellent band that should be on everyone’s soundtrack.

Blog Log # 2 (Quote of the Week)

*A graduation special edition for my favorite gal*


My Uncle Terwilliger on
the Art of Eating Popovers

My uncle ordered popovers
from the restaurant’s bill of fare.
And, when they were served,
he regarded them
with a penetrating stare…
Then he spoke great Words of Wisdom
as he sat there on that chair:
“To eat these things,”
said my uncle,
“you must exercise great care.
You may swallow down what’s solid…
BUT…
you must spit out the air!”

And…
as you partake of the world’s bill of fare,
that’s darned good advice to follow.
Do a lot of spitting out the hot air.
And be careful what you swallow.
—Dr. Seuss

(That was an original poem composed for the 99th Commencement of Lake Forest College by Theodor Seuss Geisel
June 4, 1977)

And Now...

- (This is the famous fake MIT speech that Vonnegut did not give but whatever because it is serving my purpose right now.)

“Ladies and gentlemen of the class of '08: (I changed the date because it is fake anyway.)
Wear sunscreen.
If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience. I will dispense this advice now.
Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth. Oh, never mind. You will not understand the power and beauty of your youth until they've faded. But trust me, in 20 years, you'll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can't grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous you really looked. You are not as fat as you imagine.
Don't worry about the future. Or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum. The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind, the kind that blindside you at 4 pm on some idle Tuesday.
Do one thing every day that scares you.
Sing.
Don't be reckless with other people's hearts. Don't put up with people who are reckless with yours.
Floss.
Don't waste your time on jealousy. Sometimes you're ahead, sometimes you're behind. The race is long and, in the end, it's only with yourself.
Remember compliments you receive. Forget the insults. If you succeed in doing this, tell me how.
Keep your old love letters. Throw away your old bank statements.
Stretch.
Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn't know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives. Some of the most interesting 40-year-olds I know still don't.
Get plenty of calcium. Be kind to your knees. You'll miss them when they're gone.
Maybe you'll marry, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll have children, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll divorce at 40, maybe you'll dance the funky chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary. Whatever you do, don't congratulate yourself too much, or berate yourself either. Your choices are half chance. So are everybody else's.
Enjoy your body. Use it every way you can. Don't be afraid of it or of what other people think of it. It's the greatest instrument you'll ever own.
Dance, even if you have nowhere to do it but your living room.
Read the directions, even if you don't follow them.
Do not read beauty magazines. They will only make you feel ugly.
Get to know your parents. You never know when they'll be gone for good. Be nice to your siblings. They're your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future.
Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle, because the older you get, the more you need the people who knew you when you were young.
Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft. Travel.
Accept certain inalienable truths: Prices will rise. Politicians will philander. You, too, will get old. And when you do, you'll fantasize that when you were young, prices were reasonable, politicians were noble, and children respected their elders.
Respect your elders.
Don't expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund. Maybe you'll have a wealthy spouse. But you never know when either one might run out.
Don't mess too much with your hair or by the time you're 40 it will look 85.
Be careful whose advice you buy, but be patient with those who supply it. Advice is a form of nostalgia. Dispensing it is a way of fishing the past from the disposal, wiping it off, painting over the ugly parts and recycling it for more than it's worth.
But trust me on the sunscreen."

*And words to a song, to boot. Day Of The Locusts –Bob Dylan

What I’m Reading Now: The Golden Age of Green Lantern

Green Lantern: Rebirth
Written By: Geoff Johns
Art By: Ethan Van Sciver

In the midst of me watching The Dark Knight several times within a couple days, I decided that it might be a good idea to do some reading. I gave Batman a rest and entered the world of another great DC character, Green Lantern. Throughout my personal comic history, Green Lantern has been one of those characters that I never really cared for. But with all the hype surrounding Geoff Johns’ “Blackest Night” story, I figured now was a better time than any to begin. I started off with a six-issue miniseries called Green Lantern: Rebirth. Written by Geoff Johns with art by Ethan Van Sciver, Green Lantern: Rebirth series is about the return of the greatest Green Lantern throughout the 3600 space sectors – Hal Jordan. These six issues are some of the best superhero reading I have ever experienced. I never knew that Green Lantern was such an enjoyable character. Upon beginning, I did some research to discover the story of Hal Jordan and why Jordan was currently housing the spirit of vengeance. In 1994, DC decided to do away with Hal Jordan, which took place within the pages of Zero Hour. A decade later, Hal Jordan was scheduled to return and at the helm would be up and coming writer – Geoff Johns. These six issues are a pivotal point in the history to the Green Lantern Corp. and the to the lanterns of space sector 2814. Green Lantern: Rebirth is one of the greatest DC stories to hit the shelves within the last decade. It is a great story and is becoming increasingly important with the current DCU. Van Sciver also draws beautifully throughout this book and draws some absolutely stunning pages. It is also a interesting time to read this story because this creative team is also going to write the upcoming Flash: Rebirth series… the coming of Barry Allen. It’s an exciting time to be reading stories like this that will resonate throughout the DCU for years to come.

Living Up To Expectation: DMZ #37

DMZ #37
Written by: Brian Wood
Art by: Riccardo Burchielli

Many years ago one of the most popular books at Vertigo was by British writer Warren Ellis and American artist Darrick Robertson ... it went by the rather cumbersome name of Transmetropolitan ... but was more frequently known as quite simply Transmet. For a good portion of the series the thrust of the story is the main character, Spider Jerusalem, trying to right a wrong that he has made. That was a story that had a strong sense of humor and a mean streak a mile wide. DMZ has been a book about the slow rise over three years of Matty Roth from lowly photo-tech intern to voice of a disenfranchised and disowned populace of a demilitarized goldmine. No matter how devastated NYC will always be the crown jewel of America, and neither side of this war seems to be able to call it quits while the 5 boroughs remain contested. I find it far more believable that Matty, after spending three or so years among the people being a truthteller to the world that he would have the sway to effectively back a firebrand candidate to victory. If only he had been given the kind of time that would have been necessary to properly vet his candidate, he might have realized that the light at the end of the tunnel was a Mack truck barrelling toward him. Parco Delgado might not be the man we had all hoped him to be. Let's hope that Matty can find some way to reshape the man he thought he once knew, and undo the damage that comes with great power ... not to mention the damage that would come from the Prada weilding harpy that's been whispering in his ear while Matty was away.

What Do You Mean They're Not Superheroes?: Sneak Peek Reviews 12/09/2008

Secret Invasion: Dark Reign
Written by: Brian Michael Bendis
Art by: Alex Maleev

Brian Bendis loves the threatening shadowy figure. A whole lot. His Dark Illuminati ... or ... Illumi-naughty (I still giggle a little bit every time I say that) is not exactly what I expected. What pretty much everyone and his brother expected this coalition to be is not what it is. I think I might actually be a little excited about Dark Reign. Bendis pens an issue that is very much the dark mirror of his New Avengers: Illuminati one shot that preceded Civil War. Alex Maleev manages to make this rather interesting cast of characters look even more menacing than one might expect (though his Namor looks a whole lot like Ben Kingsley ... which kind of made me giggle). This is the beginning of what is to come for quite a while in the Marvel Universe, and I have started to think that while the initial invasion might have been by the Skrulls that the real Secret Invasion might have just begun.




Green Arrow/Black Canary #15
Written by: Andrew Kreisberg
Art by: Mike Norton

For 5 years Judd Winick has been the man behind Ollie Queen, to have someone else penning the Emerald Archer seems a little odd. When Andy Diggle wrote Green Arrow: Year One it took a little bit to wrap my head around but I still managed to really enjoy the story he had to tell, but that was just a mini-series. Now Andrew Kreisberg, a man who has one mini-series and the beginnings of a story arc on Batman: Confidential under his belt, is now writing the ongoing Star City Robin Hood. And I have a secret to tell you ... it was good. Kreisberg doesn't jump right in to a whole new arc, first he has to show that he knows what Ollie and his family are all about, and this first issue proves that he does. He also has to show that he knows his history, this issue proves he does. And finally he has to show that he knows how to create a memorable new villain, and he proves that he does ... I'll give you a hint ... it doesn't happen until the last page. So, if you've been reading Green Arrow/Black Canary and were thinking that the end of Winick's run would be a good time to leave, you were wrong. And if you were thinking that you might like to start reading Green Arrow/Black Canary ... Now is the time.

Wonder Wizard of Oz #1
Written by: Eric Shanower
Art by: Skottie Young

Frank L. Baum was a really weird guy. But I'll be damned if he didn't write an incredibly memorable story. Eric Shanower isn't a household name with most comic fans but for fans of indie comics or fans of historical fiction comic fans he's well known as the writer and artist of Age of Bronze, the totally amazing Trojan War comic that is published by Image and far too few people are aware of. Skottie Young is an artist who over the last few years has done more to hone his craft and his acceptance among fans than almost any other artist in the industry. This is perhaps one of the best projects for both of these creators to work on in order to instantly raise their stock value in the industry. This comic is phenomenally well done. Anyone who is at all familiar with the book or the movie is going to instantly identify with and enjoy this series. I don't know if there is a book on the shelves this week that I suggest more highly that everyone, every comic fan, serious or casual, check out.

ComicDorksCast Episode 044

ComicDorkscastEp044.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

An Extra Long Episode!

Running Time: 01:35:42

• Secret Invasion #8 is the cause of some interesting conversation.
• Darren's Pick of the Week: Justice Society of America #21
• One evil man's world view makes for interesting reading in Jonah Hex #28.
• Rob's Pick of the Week: Marvels: Eye of the Camera #1.
• Criminal 2 #7 finishes one long, long bad night.
• Scott's Pick of the Week: Astounding Wolfman #10.
• The Best Single Issues of November!
• Brief Mentions
• Anticipated Books

If you have any questions or comments drop us a line at: Comicdorkscast@gmail.com

Go to www.FantasyShopOnline.com and check out the growing community on the Message Boards.

Check out our website at ComicDorksCast.Blogspot.com.

The Music at the opening and closing of the show was: "Laborissuesinthetoydepartment" by Dillinger Four.

A Brief Look at Why There Isn't A Brief Mention Review or The Best Books You Didn't Read Last Week ...

This is what my face looks like after falling off of the ladder on Friday ... I look like I just stepped off of my latest victory in Bum Fights 13. Typing isn't the easiest thing to accomplish with the damage that happened to my arm so I'll keep this brief.









This is what the culprit looks like. If you see this ladder anywhere contact the authorities, it will fall out from underneath you and it will hurt. 12 feet up for the feet, nearly 18 up for the head ... Don't Try This At Home!

From The Dorks’ Soundtrack (Here comes the zombie portraying me. - Dillinger Four)

Music from episode 44

Song – labourissuesinthetoydepartment

Performed by – Dillinger Four

From the album – “situationist comedy”


Nowadays when I think of great punk rock less and less bands make the list. One band that is forever sketched in the punk rock tablet some dude with a fin brought down the mountain is Dillinger Four. The first time I heard D4, instantly, I thought holy shit! So this is what punk rock is sposed to sound like. What is better than a punk band that rocks it so hard that their fans fail to realize or to care that they are poking fun at them. Or should I say the “scene.” I don’t know, you tell me.

D4 hails from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Huh, so Minneapolis was not only the birth of what has become Alt Country but also the home of one of the best punk bands known to man? It is hard for me to relate to you how relieving it is for me to have a band like D4 in my life. I got into punk rock in my early twenties, not as a teen. Not that I didn’t try but bands like The Dead Kennedys and the Sex Pistols suck. I’m sorry but it’s not my fault they suck. But because they sucked I thought… hey, I’ll just listen to the Dead for a few years. Not to mention, that oddly enough it seemed the jobs I worked in my early twenties filled me with more angst than I ever could have imagined as a whiney little teenager. Therefore, it was therapeutic for me to hear songs about shitty bosses, shitty jobs, and shitty people. I believe it feels better to scream out a song as opposed to punching a wall or a face, that’s just me. The titles D4 have chosen for their songs probably help a bit, as well.

I have been lucky enough to have seen a couple D4 shows in my day. So, I can honestly say D4 shows kick ass! With them releasing a new album recently, here’s to hoping we will have another chance. Needless to say D4 is in my life to stay. Platonically… of course. I mean how could I ever turn my back on a band that taught me the true meaning of the fruit cocktail. If you do not know the true meaning of the fruit cocktail I recommend you check into it and if you have trouble finding the true meaning of the fruit cocktail drop an e-mail and I’ll try to have a special screening to enlighten you all. D4 truly puts the “F” back in “ART.” As well as, giving me a perfect outro. “Check out my new dance I call it the walk away.
-Cap’n Clet

p.s. When in doubt just ask yourself W.W.D.4.D? You can trust this guy, just look at him. Really, how much art can you take? Oh yeah, they sound nothing like The Clash.

THE BAND:

ERIK FUNK
· GUITAR/VOCALS
· had a shrine to gene simmons in his bedroom in 1985 when kiss wasn't cool
· beautiful blue eyes, push-over, newports
· is the sexy marketing tool
· "erik funk" played bass in Impetus Inter
· OWNER OF THE TRIPLE ROCK SOCIAL CLUB
· other bandS: BILLINGSGATE

PATRICK COSTELLO
· PADDT, ST. PATRICK
· BASS/VOCALS
· swears he saw truman capote in new orleans even though hes been dead for years
· should shut the fuck up
· "attitude problem", mooch, whiskey
· other bands: CLEVELAND BOUND DEATH SENTENCE

LANE PEDERSON
· MONKEY HUSTLE
· DRUMS
· won't eat a grilled cheese sandwich because it does not make sense
· isn't home right now, but do you want to leave a message?
· really loooong stories, always at work, any beer
· Doctor of Clinical Psychology

BILL MORRISETTE
· BILLY
· GUITAR/VOCALS
· runs Extreme Noise Records in Minneapolis
· works everyday trying to convince people to buy records the don't really want
· rocks block parties in an old school way
· lord of all dogs, never at work, colt .45
· other bands: SCOOBY DON'T



Discography
Studio albums
· Midwestern Songs of the Americas (1998)
· Versus God (2000)
· Situationist Comedy (2002)
· Civil War (2008)
Live albums
· Live at First Avenue (2003)
Compilation albums
· This Shit Is Genius (1999)
EPs
· Higher Aspirations: Tempered and Dismantled (1995)
· The Kids Are All Dead (1996)
· More Songs About Girlfriends and Bubblegum (1997)
Split releases
· The Rebel's Choice (split with The Strike) (1997)
· Pinhead Gunpowder/Dillinger Four (2000)
Videography
· Belt Fighting the Man (with Toys That Kill and Rivethead)
· Plea for Peace/Take Action Vol. 2
External links
· www.angelfire.com/mn/dillingerfour
· http://www.myspace.com/dillingerfour