Whatever You Want: Greg Rucka's Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman

By: Greg Rucka

Fresh from my disappointment with one of Mike’s recommendations (which is really the only time he ever let me down about a book), I was loath to ask for anyone’s suggestions about what I should read next. After fending for myself for a couple of weeks (and crossing a couple titles off of my growing list of books), I finally asked Rob’s opinion about my next book. “Have you read any Wonder Woman?” No was my reply, I had skimmed passed all of her titles, something about the costume was off putting. He put The Hiketeia into my hands and sent me on my way. Less than twenty- four hours later, I was back and asking what was next.


In the Hiketeia, we watch as Danny abases herself before Diana in the old rituals. Diana offers up her hospitality and has Danny help her as an aid. The furies watch over everything as Diana puts herself between Batman and Danny twice. She can only be released from the Hiketeia by Danny, so she must fight her friend over and over. And just when you think that things can’t get any more awesome (she puts her foot on Batman’s head to keep him from fighting), we watch as Batman goes down on his knees to beg Hiketeia from Diana.

Needless to say, I was hooked like a junkie. I ripped through the next five books like they were nothing (a true sign of if I like a book). I think Greg Rucka really knows the character. He shows every facet of her life, from fighting forest fires to writing a book to bringing a new assist into her world. She’s made human by her love of all people. She faces down a group called “Protect our Children”, an Anti-Wonder Woman group. She fights Medusa and the Cheetah. She is even blinded by the venom of Medusa.

And just when you think that things couldn’t get any worse for her, Max Lord takes control of Superman, making him believe that Doomsday killed Lois Lane and that Diana is Doomsday. We get to witness something horrifying, Superman without reservation. He does everything in his power to kill Wonder Woman and we get to see just how bad ass she is. Superman breaks her wrist and all she does is pull her bracer down to hold it in place while she plans and moves on. She does get the lasso around Max Lord and gets him to tell her how to break his hold of Superman. And the only thing to do is kill him, which she does. That really shows how different she is from Superman and Batman. Neither one can really go the distance to save society, the Joker escapes time and time again, killing, but Batman never puts him down.

There is tons of backlash from this event, Max Lord had Brother Eye recording every second of it. I highly suggest following the entire unfolding of events in the other books it appeared in (one of which is Manhunter). I totally enjoyed the wild crazy run Greg Rucka had on Wonder Woman, and I know Scotty will eventually talk me into reading all of the newer stuff. If nothing else, writing this has renewed my love of the character and made his job easier. In fact, bring it on Scotty, just let me finish the pile of books you lent me first.

Blog Log # 2 (Quote of the Week)

“FOR HEARTS LONG LOST
AND FULL OF FRIGHT
FOR THOSE ALONE IN BLACKEST NIGHT
ACCEPT OUR RING
AND JOIN OUR FIGHT
LOVE CONQUERS ALL
WITH VIOLET LIGHT!”


*Dayron, “There’s been a lot of talk, a lot of innuendo, but if we don’t take some proactive steps, I’m worried about the future of this team.” Because, soon it will be, “My fists. Your face.” So “bring it on, schoolgirl!” –Rob

P.S. That’s a sweet picture of the first JSA in this weeks issue of JSA. Oh wow… Look it there. Who’s that Green Lantern? Oh wait, is that Alan? It is, that Green Lantern is “The first (Alan Scott).”

(It seems we must find some power rings)

Living Up To Expectations: One More Step Closer To Hal Jordan - Rainbow Lantern!

Green Lantern #38

Written By: Geoff Johns

Art By: Ivan Reis
Last time we left Hal Jordan he was listening to Misfits and wanting rip someone’s face off – particularly Sinestro’s. All right maybe not that exactly but he was looking pretty pissed off. Yet again another woman is destroyed because of Hal Jordan. I think Hal Jordan and Matt Murdock should team up and form THE AMAZING WOMAN DESTORYING DUO! (you can see that in previews any day now). As Blackest Night quickly approaches, many new corps are coming into existence and Scar continue to babble on about how we are all doomed in the “Origins and Omens” back-up story. But focusing on Green Lantern #38, Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis deliver another astounding chapter in continuing tale of the greatest green lantern, Hal Jordan (Alan Scott need not apply). Red, Yellow vs. Blue, Green? Or is it Red vs. Yellow, Blue, Green? Needless to say, there are a lot of colors fighting each other. Johns continues to unveil more aspects to these new lanterns including their strengths and particularly their weaknesses. So Jordan has already sported 3 colorful bling-bling (red, yellow, green), does he don a new color in this issue? My suggestion would be to go read it because this is one comic book not to miss. If Jordan continues to wear all these rings will we get to see a Rainbow Lantern? I have a feeling he would look a little like this:




With the end of the “Rage of the Red Lanterns” story arc, “Agent Orange” is next on the docket. Their rings powered by avarice (fancy pants term for greed), Johns has still got some ace’s up his sleeve (no gambit reference intended). Though many people seem to be anxiously awaiting “The Blackest Night” story arc, Johns and Reis continue to hold suspense with every issue and continue to make one of the greatest superhero stories ever told.

Also at the end of this issue we got a short Origins & Omens story. At first I was upset with this because it was cutting into my precious Green Lantern pages but realizing it was furthering the story I was content. Though I’m kind of curious, how much more can Scar continue to bleed? He/She should get his/her eyes looked at that. That’s not normal. But anyways, all-round and excellent issue and this comic continues to “go where eagles dare.”

ComicDorksCast Best of 2008 Episode

ComicDorkscastBestof2008.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

Running Time: 01:22:00

The Dorks talk about the best in comics, movies, music, television, websites, and more!

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: "Sushi" by Kyle Andrews

Sneak Peek Reviews: 02/24/2009

Doctor Who: Whispering Gallery One-Shot

Written by: Leah Moore & John Reppion

Art by: Ben Templesmith

I really have begun to wonder what has taken me so long in getting around to reading the Doctor Who comics. There is something about the character and the stories that are told with him that are unique to him, and they are always interesting, often brilliant, and sometimes pure genius. This story is really no different, husband/wife team John Reppion and Leah Moore (daughter of comics legend Alan Moore [but who does a very good job of trying not to ride daddy’s coattails]) have crafted an incredibly interesting story utilizing the most recent incarnation of The Doctor and his second companion Martha. The story has an interesting twist and really feels like a solid if not a rather good episode of the show. I think that having read and enjoyed this issue that I might even start looking into reading some of the previous stories because they have had some really great creators involved in the making of them. The only thing that I would say is a little frustrating about this book is that the amazing talent of Ben Templesmith is … somewhat muted by his use of photos of characters faces in certain shots … it just makes for a somewhat still shot here and there, even though he does his best to also draw around the capture. All in all I think that this was a fun story and a solid read and that anyone who has thought about maybe checking out the Doctor Who books (like I had) would be well served by checking this issue out.

New Avengers #50

Written by: Brian Michael Bendis

Art by: Billy Tan, Brian Hitch, David Aja, Michael Gaydos, David Lopez, Alex Maleev, Steve McNiven, Leinil Yu, Steve Epting, Greg Horn

December 2004 saw the launching of an all new Avengers title, New Avengers, with a whole new approach to the line-up of The Avengers, instead of taking a huge list of characters who couldn’t really support their own books and adding a few who could and making the story be about their camaraderie it was suddenly packed with headliners and mystery characters … and Luke Cage. It was essentially a book featuring all of Brian Bendis’ favorite Marvel characters together. And a lot of people didn’t think that it would work. A lot of people scoffed and said “These aren’t MY Avengers” … but the book sold. Like hotcakes. Like hotcakes with $100 bills stuffed in them. And it is still very likely the #1 ongoing book at Marvel as far as numbers are concerned. And for 50 issues, for all intents and purposes, Bendis has been telling one big long story, the kind he is famous for on works like Powers, Ultimate Spider-man, & Daredevil. It all sort of culminated in the pages of Secret Invasion and now it seems as though we have reached the second act of the New Avengers story. It’s certainly interesting where it seems to be heading, and it is certainly causing a lot of buzz in the industry … if only it were causing it for the right reason. Marvel decided to raise the price on two of their best selling books in order to try and weather these difficult financial times without having to raise prices on a bunch of lower selling books to keep them afloat. So, for the time being Dark Avengers and Mighty Avengers are both regularly $3.99 and so because of that the expectations have really been cranked up. For someone to buy a monthly ongoing book for $3.99 from one of the big two is really asking quite a bit these days, so the price of admission had better damn well be worth it. This issue was really exciting, there were a lot of very classic Bendis moments and a lot of really cool new ideas and innovations that he hasn’t used much in his writing prior to this, so it seems clear that he realizes that in order to get fans to plunk down $4 a month he’s going to have to get a little creative and really go one step further than we might imagine he would. This issue also featured great art by Billy Tan and great guest pages from some really great artists (with the exception of Greg Horn … why does anyone let that guy do interiors?) … And this book would have totally been worth the $3.99 price tag … but I realized about ¾ of the way through it that it was longer than 22 pages … it was 37 … and so I looked at the cover … and saw that it was $4.99 … so I think you’ll have to decide for yourself if it is still worth that price tag … ultimately I would say that it is, but the 7 page preview of Dark Reign: Fantastic Four seemed a little out of place in a big anniversary issue.

Was it worth the price tag for you? I’d love to know, email me at ComicDorksCast@gmail.com

ComicDorksCast Episode 055

ComicDorkscastEp055.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

Running Time: 01:17:37

• X-Factor #40 puts an amazing book back on the right track.
• Rob's Pick of the Week: Birds of Prey #127.
  
• They're Putting The Team Back Together in Outsiders #15.
  
• Scott's Pick of the Week: Ghost Rider #32.
  
• Dark Avengers #2, Worth the price of admission?
• Darren's Pick of the Week: Invincible #59.
  
• 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: "Lay Lady Lay" by Magnet (with Gemma Hayes)

From The Dorks' Soundtrack: Magnet

Music From Episode 55

Song: Lay Lady Lay

Artist: Magnet (with Gemma Hayes)

Album: On Your Side

Ever been listening to an artist so long that you don't remember when you first encountered them? Magnet is a lot like that for me. I really don't recall when I first started listening to him ... but I know it was sometime in college. There was something about the way his voice seemed so ... I don't know, ethereal yet grounded ... that appealed to me greatly. It had to have been sometime around 2003 when his second album came out that I first encountered him ... but that might not be right. I am okay with this ambiguity because there is something about Magnet that makes me feel incredibly relaxed and alright with the world. I remember listening to On Your Side and thinking that it was a good record but that there was something that I was still waiting to hear from this artist. It's a good feeling when you start to think "Man this guy's good ... but his next record is going to be amazing". The one song from On Your Side that made me think that he was going to do something amazing in the future was his collaboration with Gemma Hayes, an amazing singer songwriter in her own right from Ireland. There was something about this cover that seemed to. in some ways. transcend the original. It just worked for me.

And then in 2005 when his second record came out I read an article in an issue of PLAYBACK:stl (now a web exclusive magazine) where he talked about how he had become known as Magnet. And all of a sudden I found myself falling in love with not just the music of Evan "Magnet" Johansen but also his story. From Bergen, Norway he is the son of ... well, what sound like hippies. He was 13 and suffering from anemia and his father sent him to a doctor who decided to tattoo him with a magnet to draw the necessary iron into his blood ... probably he just used an iron heavy ink ... but it became his name nonetheless. Great story.

There is something about his music that is at once cheerful or hopeful and the next second melancholic and world weary. There is something about artists like him that always endear themselves to me. I love Jeff Buckley, OURS, Elliot Smith, Radiohead, Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits and others. These old souls that have so much to tell and sometimes too little time to tell it. So when an artist like Magnet comes along and you get the sense that you'll be able to appreciate his music for sometime to come you get a little giddy, or at least I do.

So when I was pressed to decide what song to use for Episode 55 I decided that a song that people might be familiar with in a fashion they might not instantly recognize might be the best way of going about it. I hope you all like the song, and moreso I hope that you seek out more from Magnet. I think that his second album The Tourniquet is a phenomenal album and that he has so much more room to grow and so much more talent to explore. You'd be doing yourself a favor

Brief Mentions: Somebody Get That Guy Some Skin Lotion Or Something

Hellblazer #252

Written By: Peter Milligan

Art By: Guiseppe Camuncoli
I love a comic that breaks the mold. Superheroes are cool and all don’t get me wrong. I love to see Hal Jordon thwart Sinestro’s devious plans; Batman once again beat the laugh out of the Joker, and Lex Luthor defeat Superman…. O wait vice versa (but a man can dream). But a book that can help break the monotony is a welcomed read. There are many titles that fulfill this need such as Criminal, House of Mystery, I Kill Giants, Young Liars and Northlanders but one book just has the right mixture that keeps me coming back for more. Hellblazer is a book that is always at the top of the comic pile. A chain-smoking Englishmen who was a punk rocker and not to mention a demon ass kicker – I say yes please. In this issue, Constantine is up to his usual shenanigans; killing scab babies and saving the world. Man if I had a nickel for every time I had to kill a scab baby…. But anyways, Hellblazer #252 is part two in the “scab” story arc written by Peter Milligan and art by Guiseppe Camuncoli. What is so great about this title is a constant rotating cast of creators. This offers an eclectic selection of creative touches, which leaves a lasting impression on the title as a whole. Milligan and Camuncoli successfully create a compelling story that puts all, including Constantine, in mortal danger. This issue, as weird as it may sound, will leave you saying “somebody get that guy some skin lotion of something.”




Frank Castle: The Punisher #67

Written By: Duane Swerczynski

Art By: Michel Lacombe
Punisher. Punisher. Punisher. What is there to say? Frank Castle: The Punisher #67 hit the shelves this week and as I have been since Ennis left – I was skeptic. Written by Duane Swerczynski and art by Michel Lacombe, Punisher continues his crusade against the corrupt underbelly of society. Part two in the “6 hours to kill” story arc, we find Frank in a situation he usually not it – under threat of death. 6 hours to kill is not just a eye-catching title, Frank literally has only 6 hours to kill. As discussed in last issue, Castle has been shot up with poison and has only six hours to live. With only six hours to live, Castle does what he does best, he maims, he hurts, and he kills. Though the story is great and the art is equal in its amazingness, I feel that there is slowly becoming a lack of complexity of the Punisher as was seen in the Ennis era. I won’t cast stones right now considering its only the second issue but I will keep my eyes open. If you like a nice, violent, Punisher story, this book definitely delivers. With all the gun shooting, head crushing, death-defying (read Project Superpowers) action we have all come to admire in our violent hero.

Blog log # 2 (Quote of the Week)

*Letter From The Editor – Obviously, editing for Rob is the worst job anyone could ever acquire. You might have already realized, that due to the fact I’m sure his blog logs read like a dirty, dirty toddler wrote them, I don’t read his tripe. I mean do you? If so, I must ask how? So the errors are never taken out. I’m not sorry for this because if you partake in Rob’s fucked up mind you are to blame. Ain’t nobodies fault but your own! Well, just the other day the “genius” that is Rob says to me. “Since, the quote of the week is such a hit, not to mention the hype surrounding Burneius I was thinking about doing something with fake news articles and call it The Bunion. What do you think?” The only thing I could say is, “Well, beyond you not having an original thought, it is a horrible idea just like the quotes and Burneius are.” But… you know Rob. So now I am not proud to bring you the very first article of The Bunion.

THE BUNION: ISSUE 1 VOL.1

AREA MAN NEARLY ESCAPES DEATH IN HIS NEVER-ENDING BATTLE WITH FUNNY BOOKS
By: Ben Yourick


Events took place last Wednesday in St.Chuck, Missoura that lead to a near death experience for a long and faithful comic fan. “Some things are out of our control,” stated Fan Boy (due to legal bullshit we have to use a bullshit name.) He went on to talk about how you never think “it” can happen to you. “You know crazy shit happens to other people,” said straight-faced Fan Boy. When asked about what it was that transpired here in his bordello, this is what he had to say. “This is beyond groovy.”
“Mark Twain once said that if God existed, then it was clear he was a malign thug. I think Twain was on to something.” He then went on with his story of that Wednesday night. It appears that Fan Boy had retired for the evening. He had a long day of playing ragtime piano for the patrons of his bordello called, Ponytails and High Life, and was looking forward to getting to his weekly stack of comics. “It was a light week I only had 22 books,” added Fan Boy. He then, went to grab an issue from the top of a large stack of comic books. Fan Boy stores his comics neatly in large unorganized stacks that are strategically placed wherever. Shortly, after he grabbed his comic, changed into his muumuu, and squeezed his cat a few times he plopped down on his bed. This created a chain reaction, much like a domino avalanche of funny books crashing down towards Fan Boy. He was able to swat some away with his ponytail, while catching others with his beard. Actually, he seemed to have been well prepared for such events. His amazing training in balls protection against rackisms and ninja like sandal kicks saved his life that night. Even though he was struck a few times and left unconscious, things could have been much worse. “And since people have about twenty-five feet worth of intestines in them, that’s a lots of spillage,” added Fan Boy. He was out for about 12 hours and when he awoke he was disoriented, drowned in issues, and couldn’t remember how to exactly put his books back into their out of order state once again. “A man tries so hard,” said Fan Boy, when asked about the emotional state this tragedy had left him in. When the heroes you have loved for so long turn against you what are you supposed to think? Well, one lesson learned by Fan Boy is that the comic is one thing and the bag and backboard in another. “Corners of cardboards is mighty hard.” Stated Fan Boy, while sobbing. (Mostly because of the betrayal of his heroes, that he had thought were his friends.) When asked what Fan Boy was planning for the future he replied, “We keep surviving.” “Sometimes what we control, we destroy.” And sometimes what we control is “A psycho killer.” He continues to play ragtime piano for lonely men and his ponytailed friends, who peruse from the balcony. As far as the status of his relationship with his hero friends he said, “We all agreed we’d put our past resentments aside and accept a new paradigm.” His last statement to me was, “DARRRRK VENGEANCE!!” I think that means good-bye. Statements from the books, who are guilty of the assault, were refused. I suspect that because they are comic books they can’t talk; therefore, how could a statement be had. But, we were able to reach a friend of Fan Boy. He had this to say, “WHEEWWW!” I suspect I will be covering this story many more times, due to the fact Fan Boy showed no signs of change in his near future. Then again he is a samurai.

Whatever You Want: Leave it to Chance and Courtney Crumrin

This week I've decided to give you two sides of the same coin: young female magic users. On the one hand, you have Chance Falconer, daughter of Shaman Lucas Falconer. On the dark half of the coin, you have Courtney Crumrin, niece of Aloysius Crumrin.


Leave it to Chance

By: James Robinson

Chance Falconer is all ready to train to take over as Devil's Echo's occult protector. A week after her birthday, she brings up the fact to her father, only ot be shot down by him saying that the work is too dangerous. Chance's mother died due to Lucas's work and deformed his face. He promises that when she has grown up and had a son that he will train her son.

Chance is ever the plucky heroine and takes to building her own contacts in the police and solving supernatural crimes on her own. This series spans three books with a couple of single issues floating around. The supernatural to us is just every day in Chance's world. Want an army of Troggs? Feed a bunch of humans this potion. Pixies? She has one that's her friend called Dash. Need a dragon? Yup, got one of those named St. George (he's just a bitty shoulder dragon). How about a ghost ship? We've got a story about that too.

Chance feels very much like a modern day, supernatural Nancy Drew. This is one of the few good books that has a strong lead female character (or at least a fully clothed female character). I've very sad that this series was never finished. I was looking forward to following Chance as she grew up and filled her father's shoes.



Courthney Crumrin

By: Ted Naifeh

If you like your little girls dark and angry, Courtney Crumrin is your girl. Her parents, who don't pay much attention to her, move to "take care" of their Uncle, Professor Aloysius. While they are enjoying the boost in social status (which is just what they were aiming for), Courtney is dealing with bullies and being the social outcast. Then she makes the aquantice of the Goblin Butterworm. He helps her get even with the bullies. Now Courtney is beginning to see that her Uncle's books are worth while for things and she starts dabbling in magic here and there.

Dabbling in magic is a tricky thing. She has a glamour go awry and her Uncle has to step in and help her undo it. Courtney ends up baby-sitting a Changling. She gets to see the crowning of the new leader of the cats.

Courtney is very down to earth, if not a bit rude and bad tempered. I know that doesn't make a good book usually, but I'll be damned if this series doesn't have me searching for the next book. I normally like my leading ladies to be a bit better tempered, but who can really blame Courtney for acting the way she does. Plus, it gets the job done.


I'm no Scotty when it comes to finding weird and unusual books to read. I didn't even find these books on my own; Mike at the St. Charles store pointed me to them. If you get a chance to flip through them, I definately suggest you give them a day in court. You won't be dissappointed.

Words & Stuff: Providing the Best in Comic Podcasting

In January 2008, Scott stated a simple want: “I want to do a comic podcast.” Hearing this, I was immediately on board. Unlike Scott, who has years of comic knowledge under his belt, I was relatively new to comics and didn’t know if I could keep up with the conversation. The next few weeks, Scott and I discussed how the show would be set up and how to differentiate from so many other comic podcasts out there. In February, we recorded our first episode. Needless to say I was nervous and not quite sure what to expect. But the show went flawlessly. Within the first two months, the podcasts became very enjoyable (except for maybe episode 7, you know what I mean Scott).

Though these episodes were great and provided a lot of excellent comic content, we both felt that something was missing. We decided to add another member. For weeks we searched looking for someone witty, charming, thought provoking, and someone who was well groomed… but instead we found Rob. So we officially became the three comicteers (cheesy I know) and Rob debuted on episode 8. With the introduction of Rob, I still remained the new comic reader. Though I have progressed throughout the years, I simply could not keep up with the knowledge of two comic shop workers. Though I do my best. So nearly 50 episodes passed packed full with band-aids, kittens, Broccoli quiches, and outtakes that will hopefully never see the light of day.

But through the last year of podcasting, it has truly been a joy. I’ve had the joy to watch our listeners steadily rise and number and even catch glimpses from famous comic creators. It has truly been a great experience and I wish to continue. In the fall, I will take a hiatus from the ComicDorksCast to study abroad in Nagoya, Japan. I will not be absent from the website though. I will continue a new column entitled “Dorks Abroad” where I will continue to read comics (as I get them) and also explore this whole …. manga…thing. But do not worry, I will return in the winter to resume my duties as a fellow comic enthusiast.


As a special this week, we will also be recording a special “Best of 2008” episode. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the finest in comic podcasting for over a year, the ComicDorksCast.

Picture #1 - Lex Luthor
Picture #2 - Scottums
Picture #3 - Douche
Picture #4 -Me, being really bored

What Do You Mean They're Not Superheroes?: Article 101

I can be a pessimist about certain things.

When I originally convinced Darren to go in on this endeavor over a year ago I didn't have much faith that it would last longer than a month or two. I figured that we would get 10 listeners and that we'd lose our passion for it and that I'd get tired of doing all of this extra work outside of my regular duties as a manager of a comic book store in addition to all the other things I had decided to put on my plate. And I think that if we hadn't added Rob to the show that we would have run out of things to say pretty quick. But once we became a three man show we started to find a whole new way to click together and things just sort of started falling into place.

All of a sudden we were doing everything we could to try to get a new article out every day of the week (and though we still have problems with that I think we do a pretty good job). And we were talking about doing all kinds of other stuff. We started getting more listeners too. These days we average over 40 downloads of each individual episode but we've also started seeing more and more people dipping back into the backlog and catching up on a months worth of episodes or so ... so it might actually be closer to 50. And while that's nothing, minuscule in comparison to the kinds of listener base that other comics podcasts have I can say that we're only just beginning. We're proud of each and every article we post, each and every show we upload and each and every one of our listeners we manage to touch (and that's not nearly as creepy coming from me as it might have been from Rob allow me to assure you).

This show has served as an extension of so many of the things that I love about working in the retail end of the comics industry. It has given me a much wider audience to the recommendations that I make from week to week and it's done so in such an enjoyable and interactive way that I can't imagine the future without it. Thanks to this site I have been able to tell people about the comics that I love that don't get the kind of attention that I think they deserve, books like: The Elephantmen, Scalped, Criminal, Lone Ranger, Jonah Hex, Noble Causes, Dynamo 5, Guerrilas, Wonder Woman, Secret Six, The Alcoholic, House of Mystery, The Wildstorm Universe ... the list goes on and on. I've had the chance to tell people about my love for the comics industry and the artform in all kinds of ways and it's been nothing but a true and complete joy.

And all of this love came before we started getting e-mails from the people who actually make these comics that I love so much started getting in contact with us saying how much they enjoyed reading the reviews that we wrote and hearing our comments about their books. We've heard from Brahm Revel, Gail Simone, Rick Remender, Sean McKeever, Dean Haspiel, Peter Tomasi, and developed deeper connections with creators like Cullen Bunn, Brian Hurtt, Jeremy Haun, & Chris Samnee. The future of comics are in the hands of these amazing creators and to know that they have their ears and eyes on the voices and words of their fans makes me think that the future is in capable and worthy hands.

I can't thank the people who have made this possible for me enough, it's been a real joy to work with Darren & Rob and the guys at The Fantasy Shop for providing us with webspace to store our shows over the last year and most of all the people who talk on the message boards, listen to the shows, comment on the blog, and send us e-mail.

If you want to show your thanks for all the hard work we put into the show we don't ask much, just turn your friends onto the show, get them to download and listen to the podcast, to read our articles, to check out the message boards ... to know that the work we produce is being enjoyed is really all the thanks we need.

But if we saw some ComicDorksCast t-shirts out there it would certainly put a smile out our faces as well.

Thanks to you all and here's to another year of The ComicDorksCast and another 100 What Do You Mean They're Not Superheroes?

-Scott

Living Up to Expectations: Who Doesn’t Love A Private Dick, Especially, One With Paranormal Issues?

Mysterius The Unfathomable # 2


Writer –Jeff Parker


Art –Tom Fowler



It’s like this. Good detective stories are not the easiest thing to produce. First, you are talking about a somewhat limited format to write in while competing with a monstrous list of incredible authors, most with a good sized body of work that include many different takes of those limited scenarios. Now add cinema, television, and throw in some good old-fashioned newsprint. Are you picking up what I’m laying down? Basically, to create an unpredictable mystery is a feat in it’s self, not to say that there aren’t a number of writers out there finding new ways to keep us in suspense, but those writers are good at there jobs. And their job is, wait for it… to have good ideas. Here’s one, a detective story with magic, nude witches, and Hell… amongst other things. Jeff Parker had that idea and is sharing it with us in a book called “Mysterius The Unfathomable.” (Or as I know it Unfrathomabowlbow!)

Jeff parker has created a perfectly lovable piece of shit of a person for his detective. Granted, this is only issue deuce so we will have to wait and see what happens. What is it that every lovable piece of shit person needs? A complete lovable partner who he can treat horribly but deep down know he is lucky to have counterpart. We definitely find this in a lady named… well we will call her Delfi. All that’s left to fulfill is the mystery. The mystery… that’s a whole nother thing. Which one you want to hear about? A dude who… ummm… something strange is happening to? Or another dude who… ummm… something strange is happening to? All I’ll say is just ask your self one very important question. What is the worst thing that could happen to you as a result of indulging yourself in the company of ladies of the night? (You know? Harlots, whores, tricks, prostitutes… etc.)

Not to mention, Tom Fowler’s art is a perfect fit and beautiful, taboot. I really dig his style. His portrayal of all of these characters seems to reflect the personalities of the people he is inventing with Parker. To be perfectly honest, I could rave forever about why you should checkout this story but true to tradition it will be much more enjoyable to experience it for yo’self. And if yo’self enjoys good comics you should checkout “Mysterius The Unfathomable.”
-Rob

Sneak Peek Reviews: 02/17/09

Amber Atoms #1

Story & Art by: Kelly Yates

Colors by: Michael E. Wiggam

I know that I have a reputation with people who know me, even those who only know me as that guy at the comic shop. I'm the guy they all say "He likes everything though" about. I'm the comic store equivalent of Mikey from the LIFE Cereal commercials. But I think it's just that I choose to not read bad comics ... also I can find something about every book that I read that is likable (well almost ... I mean ... I've never given a good review to a book drawn by Rob Liefield ... but I understand and respect that he has fans).

Now I realize that many people think that I am saying all of that in order to position myself to be able to say something about Amber Atoms #1.

Fooled you.

This book is great. It's just the right kind of space opera that we need right now. Evil kings trying to overtake the intergalactic government from within, a deceptively smart and undeniably scrappy young woman who longs to experience more of the universe than her father's junk yard, assassin androids that jump up out of nowhere to grab hold of your ankle. And all with artwork that is a mix of the styles of Mike Wieringo (may he rest in peace) and Cully Hamner. Kelly Yates has a whole lot going for him. I think that he has a great sense for story pacing and that he's got the idea of giving you just enough to make you come back for the next issue down pat.

If you like stories like Star Wars (I know that's lofty and that many people would probably laugh at my comparing the two but ... take it for what you will) and Flash Gordon then you're in the right place. I think that this book has a lot of promise and that when you take into account that Yates is writing and drawing the book himself you know that the creative vision will be singular and exciting.


Outsiders #15

Written by: Peter J. Tomasi

Art by: Lee Garbett

Who remembers 1983? I don't ... I was 2 ... I wasn't even two when Batman & The Outsiders made their first appearance in the final issue of The Brave and The Bold. Sheesh ... C'mon ...

Who remembers last week? I DO! REALLY, I DO! When Batman & The Outsiders Special came out last week I was convinced that the book was going to have to do a whole lot to win me over, even with the killer creative paring of Peter J. Tomasi and Adam Kubert ... but I was wrong. It didn't have to do a whole lot. It just had to be the subtly crafted masterpiece that it was. It was a tear jerker and it introduced me to the team that I was going to want to love for the next decade.

And then smartly DC followed up their stellar release the following week with Outsiders #15. Written by the same Peter J. Tomasi as the Special and drawn by Lee Garbett who pencilled the two issues of Batman that tied into Final Crisis.

This book will knock your socks off. I was glad that I wasn't wearing socks to be honest because I would have felt a little uncomfortable having them knocked off while I was at work, it's just not something that strikes me as professional. The team that was originally formed is well represented here with Halo, Metamorpho, Black Lightning, Geo-Force, and Katana all being members but the addition of Owl Man and The Creeper add an interesting aspect to the team, not to mention the leader of the team: Alfred Pennyworth. If there has ever been a time for Alfred to take the spotlight in the comics industry now is the time. In a time where more and more focus has been placed on the supporting casts of titles it is finally time for the gentleman's gentleman to get some page time. Alfred has been, for all intents and purposes, a superhero for a very long time and now it's time for him to show it. Think of him as the Barbara Gordon to the Birds of Prey, guiding the strike team on their campaign against evil.

Is there any task you'd rather have Alfred doing? Be honest with yourself.

Read this book.

X-Factor #40

Written by: Peter David

Art by: Valentine DeLandro

I know I have said this before and I fear that I might have to say it again sometime in the near future (too near to be comfortable) but ... X-Factor is BACK!

The book that has been essentially about Jamie Madrox for 40 issues (and a 5 issue mini-series) has finally found it's heart and soul again, not to mention it's footing. Peter David is a writer that I haven't always loved but whom I have always had a great deal of respect for. There is something about this character and this series though that has managed to keep me reading through good times and bad. Madrox is the kind of character that makes you want to read comics, he's complex ... and not just because he is the living embodiment of multiple personalities. He is a character who can fall in love and does so convincingly (mostly because David knows how to write realistic human emotions) and can also hate convincingly.

But the series kept getting sidetracked.

But it seems like it's finally found it's way back to the path of ... awesome. I can't tell you too much about what happens in this issue without ruining some really epic moments and without ruining a great, great story. What I can tell you is that Jamie has returned to the parish overseen by one, John Madrox. Yes the dupe that became a father and a priest makes his return in this issue and essentially acts as Madrox's confessor. There is something incredibly surreal about the idea of the conversation that they have considering that Jamie is talking ... to himself. But not once did I think it was silly, at all. As a matter of fact I thought it was brilliant. Peter David had figured out a way to have an entire issue of introspection without having to worry about overuse of narration boxes or silly talking outloud when there is no one else in the room.

I honestly think that if you worried that X-Factor had fallen off of the tracks that you'll kick yourself if you don't read at least this issue.

And if I'm wrong tell me, email me at ComicDorksCast@gmail.com

Guest Article: Why You Should Read Fables (Brought to you by Molly Notime- Nowhere but I do own Rob part 2 of 2 )

Why Should You Read Fables?

Okay. So I’m not really your typical comic book kind of gal. I say that because, well, I have many other hobbies that consume most of my free time besides reading comic books. But when I was first introduced to comics by my S.O. (“significant other,” for those of you not yet on the bandwagon) Rob, I was given the best book possible for a newbie: Fables. And I’m not saying this because I was paid by someone to say it, oh no, believe you me, this is definitely from the bottom of my heart. I love Fables.

Fables should be read by everyone. And by everyone I mean literate humans between the ages of 14 (per required maturity level recommended by the company) and 104 (because after that you start believing you’re a character in the book.) The characters in Fables are real; from the very beginning I was touched by their kindness, disappointed (in a select few) by their greed, excited to be in attendance (as a reader) to their joyous occasions. As you read this book, each character gains more roundness and more depth and becomes more interesting.

I haven’t even mentioned anything about the incredible art or true-to-life conversations/writing in the series. I could go on and on and on, but I won’t, because if I decide to explain, in detail, all the amazing things about this series, I will have ended up with a book of my own. And I would much rather have you read Fables instead.

The gist of it is this: You know how you felt when you were young and read about amazing superheroes and other worlds you knew must exist? Or how you watched damsels being rescued by modest and handsome spandex-suited men and hoped that would be you someday? This book makes you feel like that all over again. It gives you those same exciting feelings of hope you felt when you were young, only it’s specifically written for you.

Sometimes adults will go back and read a book they loved when they were young and they end up disappointed because they don’t get the same feelings anymore. But Fables gives you those feelings because it’s got the same elements as all those childhood stories in a more mature package. And that’s why you should read Fables. You’ll feel like a kid again, I promise.

-Molly

ComicDorksCast Episode 054

ComicDorkscastEp054.mp3
(Download Directly: Right Click and choose "Save As..." and save locally on your computer)

Running Time: 01:19:26

• Batman #686 left many jaws on the floor.
• Rob's Pick of the Week: Incognito #2.
  
• R.E.B.E.L.S. #1 was great on so many levels.
  
• Darren's Pick of the Week: Masquerade #1.
  
• Titans #10 continues the improvement on a great book.
• Scott's Pick of the Week: Batman & The Outsiders Special.
  
• Best Single Trades of Last Month
  
• 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: "Lion in a Coma" by Animal Collective.

Brief Mentions: (Damn It Feels Good To Be A Mundy! or It Looks Like Somebody Has A Case Of The Mundies. Part 1 of 2... this is the y point of view.)

Fables

Issue # 1 thru 81 with special guests, The Last Castle and 1001 Nights of Snowfall

Writer- Bill Willingham

Pencils – Mark Buckingham (the bulk and current)
-Lan Medina, Bryan Talbot, Linda Medley (sorry if I missed someone)



You may have or have not noticed we never talk about one of the greatest books being produced in this day in age. That book goes by the name Fables. 81 issues strong, a prestige format story called The Last Castle, and an original graphic novel called 1001 Nights of Snowfall is what consists of this epic series thus far and an added bonus collection of covers by James Jean in a hardcover. All that can be said about Fables is that it started great and is only getting better with every issue and those issues can be found on the shelf of your local comic shop. Me being me recommends that if you are not involved in this story yet do yourself a favor and pick up the trades… DO NOT JUST JUMP IN ALL WILLY NILLY LIKE! I also recommend that you hold off on 1001 Nights of Snowfall until you are pretty familiar with the cast, it takes place prior to the events in Fables but hits so much harder if you already love these people. Currently, there are 11 trades available with the 12th due out in August. Plus that 1001 Nights of Snowfall and don’t fret because The Last Castle can be found in trade # 4 (I’m pretty sure it’s # 4 but I can guarantee it is one of the trades.) It is a handsome collection indeed.

Fables is story that is made for everyone! For starters, you have known these characters since you where knee high to a grasshopper. Sure, they are shown in a whole new light taking part in all new adventures but lovable all the same, even the ones you love to hate are lovable. In my humble opinion, Willingham is sitting on a goldmine with the whole idea of this book. He could write Fables stories forever if he wanted too. He could even write two books forever about this very concept. For proof that this idea can have two books and still be great just checkout Jack of Fables. Which, is co-written by Willingham and Sturges. It is a lighter read but great all the same. Not to mention, an up coming cross-over that will run through Fables, Jack of Fables, and a brand new mini-series The Literals (Also co-written by Willingham and Sturges.) I can honestly say that Fables will be one of them timeless books that will be enjoyed for as long as people read the written word.

By now we all should be familiar with the name Willingham. We also should be familiar with the name Sturges. We know these names because time and time again they have given us amazing stories that we should be forever grateful for. And anybody out there that owns that DC Universe: The Stories of Alan Moore trade get to see a Green Latrine story featuring the art of Bill Willingham. Yep, crazy I know. Speaking of art, Fables has it and it is beautiful. The first arc was penciled by Lan Medina and is perfectly fitting plus a joy to look at. After Medina we are graced by the art of Mark Buckingham, which is just as beautiful and fitting for the story. As if great writing and great art is not enough, we get James Jean covers. I’d reckon that it is impossible to walk past an issue of Fables without at least picking it up and admiring the cover before putting it back down and having to go back at a later date to pick up the trades. There is no shame in not being current or even not reading Fables at the moment, because eventually if you truly love the art of storytelling you with find your way to this collection. It has been said many times that you should buy the first two Fable trades at the same time. I agree and disagree with this stament.(that I have told many people many times) Let me explain. I agree because the first arc is not a fair assessment of what Fables is really like. You see it is a straight up murder mystery detective story, which is not necessarily how the rest of these books play out. I disagree because it was an amazing fucking murder mystery detective story and I loved every second of it. It seems Vertigo is in the process of giving us yet another unforgettable tale that will last many lifetimes. *To make a long story short if you are not taking part in the Fables experience you are missing out. If you don’t want to believe me checkout part 2 of this brief mention, in which my better half tells you her thoughts on this epic journey known as Fables. I must go now, for I hear the horns a calling.
-Rob

Collected material

1
Fables: Legends in Exile
ISBN 1-5638-9942-6
April 25, 2003
Fables #1–5 and the new prose story "A Wolf in the Fold"

2
Fables: Animal Farm
ISBN 1-4012-0077-X
August 2003
Fables #6–10

3
Fables: Storybook Love
ISBN 1-4012-0256-X
May 2004
Fables #11–18

4
Fables: March of the Wooden Soldiers
ISBN 1-4012-0222-5
November 30, 2004
Fables #19–21, 23–27, and The Last Castle one-shot

5
Fables: The Mean Seasons
ISBN 1-4012-0486-4
April 30, 2005
Fables #22, 28–33

6
Fables: Homelands
ISBN 1-84576-124-3
January 27, 2006
Fables #34–41

7
Fables: Arabian Nights (and Days)
ISBN 1-84576-278-9
July 5, 2006
Fables #42–47

8
Fables: Wolves
ISBN 1-4012-1001-5
December 20, 2006
Fables #48–51, maps of Fabletown and the Farm, script for #50

9
Fables: Sons of Empire
ISBN 1-4012-1316-2
June 13, 2007 Fables #52–59

10

Fables: The Good Prince
ISBN 1-4012-1686-2
June 4, 2008
Fables #60–69

11
Fables: War and Pieces

ISBN 1-4012-1913-6
November 19, 2008
Fables #70-75, sketches by Mark Buckingham

12

Fables: The Dark Ages

ISBN 1-4012-2316-8
August 11, 2009
Fables #76-82

And Let's not forget about:

Fables: 1001 Nights of Snowfall

*Warning this book will probably make you cry. If you have a heart, that is.

**From the editor’s desk: This was specifically unspecific due to the fact nobody likes great stories to be ruined for them. See, some of us ComicDorks are nice people... Dayron.

The Best Book You Didn't Read Last Week: Absolute Darkness

The Darkness #75

Written by: Phil Hester

Art by: Matt Timson, Joe Benitez, Michael Broussard, Lee Carter, Jorge Lucas, Marc Silvestri & Steve Firchow, Frazier Irving, Dale Keown, Ryan Sook, Stjepan Sejic

Man, there were a ton of great books that you foolishly forgot to read this week ... I mean a TON. In a week where I could have talked about Green Arrow/Black Canary (that so many of you left when Winick did [Fools! Fools, I say!]), DMZ, Scalped, Green Lantern Corps, Captain Britain & MI:13 ... I decided that it was probably best to reward a company that knows what kind of book is worth you $4.99 and talk a bit about the wonder that is The Darkness. 37 pages of incredible art by 10 different teams of amazing artists, all written by the impeccable talent of the one and only Phil Hester. The Darkness, for those of you who have never read the series, is the story of Jackie Estacado. Jackie is the bearer of a unique power known as The Darkness, it's basically the dark counterpart to The Witchblade. Jackie has used his abilities in the execution of his duties as a mafia hitman, as an amnesiac nyctophobe doing everything he can to run from the mafiosos he worked for, a brutal force against those who wished him dead, and recently as a sadistic druglord in South America.

In the last few issues we have seen Jackie reduced to a repo man of sorts working for The Sovereign, collecting on both contracts for immortal souls as well as condemning demons back to hell, he has also done all of this without most of his power as his body may be walking the Earth but his soul is trapped in Hell. The Sovereign has assured Jackie that if he does his bidding long enough that he will retrieve his soul for him ... who knows how long this agreement will go on, and little does The Sovereign know that Jackie has a pretty bad track-record when it comes to respecting authority figures no matter how much they might hold over his head.

This issue in particular is a look into the future (the far flung and dark future at that) and the possible death of Jackie Estacado, as told to him by a fortune teller. It is a really gripping and interesting story of the evil nature of Mr. Estacado overtaking the world and making it an infinitely dark place ... the perfect home for the weapon he is cursed to bear. Ultimately this is sort of a cross-roads issue for Jackie and I think that anyone who has even the slightest interest in reading the series would be well served by picking up this issue and getting right into the thick of it.

Blog Log # 2 (Quote of the Weak)

Dear Rob,
“FUCK YOU! YOU SUCK! I HATE YOU! GET LOST! GO AWAY YOU ASSHOLE! YOU FUCKER, GET LOST! GET LOST! GET LOST!” -Dayron

Whatever You Want: Sandman or how I became a comic dork

Back in the before time, there was a group of friends who used Neil Gaiman’s Sandman as a test of friendship. “It’s not peer pressure; it’s just your turn.” Being the dutiful friend I am, I took the series home and read it. What followed was a weird trip through the life of Morpheus, also known as Dream of the Endless.

The series opens with a group of magicians summoning Death in the hopes of living forever and using him as a weapon. Instead they get a weird man, who we later find out is Dream. They keep him trapped inside a crystal ball, hoping he will give them power in exchange for his release. Dream is a patient man and waits until someone accidentally smudges the wards holding him in. He then steals some sand from a daydream of one of his guards and makes good on his escape. After many years of being imprisoned, Dream is weak, clutching at passing dreams to gather food and clothing. He then goes off in search of his tools and revenge. His revenge for the years of captivity is Eternal Waking, constantly dreaming you are waking up from a nightmare.

Upon returning to the Dreaming, the realm in which he is lord over, Dream has to regain some of his power by releasing it from something he created, in this case Letters of Commission he gave to Cain and Abel. He finds his castle in disrepair and a great number of the servants turned back into the dream stuff that formed them. He enlists the help of John Constantine to gain back his bag of sand, which is in the possession of John’s ex-girlfriend. We get to see some of Dream’s mercy as he allows her to die in her sleep, dreaming of John.

Next, Dream is off to hell to regain his helm. He is challenged to a battle of reality by the demon that has it. In the battle of reality they have to constantly one up each other, hunter killing wolf, horsefly killing horse, etc. Dream wins back his helm, and Lucifer asks him why he should be allowed to leave seeing as he has no powers in hell. To which Dream replies, “What power would HELL have if those here imprisoned were NOT able to DREAM of HEAVEN?”

That just leaves his last tool, the ruby, which is in the clutches of John Dee. Dream touches the ruby and falls unconscious. Dee follows Dream into the Dreaming and starts hurting the dreamers. Dee crushes the ruby, believing that it will kill Dream along with it, but really, he allowed all of the power to be released back to Dream. He returns John Dee back to Arkham Asylum.

The final story in Preludes & Nocturnes is called the Sound of Her Wings. This is the story where we start meeting the rest of Dream’s family. It opens with him feeding the pigeons while kids are playing soccer behind him. A super happy Goth girl (I know there’s a contradiction in there somewhere) comes up and starts talking to him about fat pigeons and Mary Poppins. She then gets serious and asks him what’s wrong because he’s sitting and moping. He tells her that he feels disappointed now that his vengeance is over. She calls him “the stupidest, most self-centered, appallingest excuse for an anthropomorphic personification.” And then she throws bread at his head because he feels sorry for himself that his game is over and he hasn’t found a new one yet. Dream goes with her as she goes back to her work, gathering up the dead and ushering them to their next step. After each death, he hears the sound of her wings as she takes them on. As she works, Death tells Dream how it sometimes gets her down how people aren’t happy to see her because they fear the next step. Somehow this is just the medicine Dream needs to find solace.

OK, this started out as me talking about the entire series of Sandman, but somehow I forgot just how much information is crammed into each of the ten trades (four if you get the absolute additions). It’s been years since the first time I read this series, and it remains my favorite to this day. It gave me love for the author, Neil Gaiman, and for the cover artist, Dave McKean. I have also taken the passing along of this series very seriously; most of my friends have read it at my insistence. Which allows me to end this with a challenge to Rob: I have all ten books for you to read, all you have to do is get over the fact that it uses the same name as another series. And when you come over to my way of thinking, you can stop making fun of my favorite writer. I’ll even read Sandman Mystery Theater for you.

From The Dorks' Soundtrack: (this wilderness needs to get right out of my clothes and get into my bedroom)

Animal Collective
Album: Merriweather Post Pavilion
Song: Lion in a Coma

It's of the moment and feels new, but it's also striking in its immediacy and comes across as friendly and welcoming.
-Pitchfork

Nine albums and eight years in, it’s time to stop trying to figure out what the hell Animal Collective--vocalist/guitarist Avey Tare, percussionist/vocalist Panda Bear and knob-twiddler Geologist--is, and just enjoy the orgasmic rush of danceable rock.
-Entertainment Weekly

Merriweather Post Pavilion is a perfectly organized record, not a note out of place, not a second wasted.
-All Music Guide

These are just a few reviews of the recently released, ninth album, Merriweather Post Pavilion from the avant-garde Animal Collective. Formed in 2000, Animal Collective, consisting of Avey Tare (David Portner), Panda Bear (Noah Lennox), Deakin (Josh Dibb), and Geologist (Brian Weitz), is a band that is hard to place. With a mix of electronica and alternative with a hint of craziness, Animal Collective is a unique listen. NPR comments that they are both musicians and artists and approach music as type of sound design. Animal Collective grew out of Baltimore County. Panda Bear and Deakin met in 2nd grade and became friends from then on. A few years later, Avey Tare and Geologist, joined and during their college years released their first album, Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished. Nine years later and years of development at eight albums under their belt, Animal Collective released Merriweather Post Pavilion. The album is named after a venue located in Columbia, Maryland. It is from this album that episode #54 song is taken, "Lion in a Coma". As mentioned in an interview with NPR, the album pulls heavy influence from African bands such as African Brothers Dance Band Nationale and Blo. With a mix of African music and electronica, this album is truly the first of its kind. Setting the tone for 2009, Animal Collective delivers with a strangely powerful and unusual album that leaves the listener wanting more.

Albums
# Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished (August 2000)
# Danse Manatee (July 2001)
# Hollinndagain (2002, 2006, live album)
# Campfire Songs (March, 2003)
# Here Comes the Indian (June 17, 2003)
# Sung Tongs (May 3, 2004)
# Feels (October 18, 2005)
# Strawberry Jam (September 10, 2007)
# Merriweather Post Pavilion (January 20, 2009)

Another Year Older And What Have You Learned?

*On behalf of the ComicDorks I would like to wish two very brilliant and influential men a very happy 200th birthday. Here’s to many more to come… cheers!

First, to a man, a hero of the world… Well-done chap. Charles Darwin deserves humanities respect. If for no other reason than that he created the ultimate argument that appears to be standing the test of time. I will spare you my beliefs but I will say I am one hairy dude. Let us not forget the changes he made in the people’s view of human nature and social behavior, not to mention the world around them. And this, my friends has been going on for many years now with no signs of disappearing anytime soon. So, to you Charles Darwin, thank you and happy 200th. Do you feel any older? And goddmned your chops are fucking hot! Charles Robert Darwin (12 February 1809 – 19 April 1882)

Next, The Great Emancipator, a man that made the hard decision that had to be made for our great nation to flourish. (So we can try and run it into the ground.) He was a folk hero out of the great Mid-West that knew what next step The United States needed to take. And like most great men just trying to change the world for the better he had to die. Yeah, I know it’s bullshit but like John Prine says, “That’s the way the world goes round.” So, to you my 16th President happy 200th I hope it’s a good one. (Should I? Ummm… I think I have too. I’m so sorry!) Seen any good shows lately? (Scotty made me do it!)

Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865)

*NOT TO MENTION THE MOST AMAZINGLY BARBARIC GENIUS OF A MAN JOHN "MUTHAFUCKIN" BAUMANN! HAPPY BIRFDAY JOHN.

What I’m Reading Now: Some Days I Wish I Was Cap’n Clet :(

Wheeeeew! Ah yeah… Bitches, what is up… Bitches? So like I’m taking a break from my rush duties to let you know what I’ve been reading. I tell you what, rushing a frat is hard work but totally worth it. You see I’ve been rushing a chapter of Masta Beta Alota and one day I will sit in the middle… if dreams do come true. Anyway, I have read some really cool stuff lately. Yes, comics. Though, I have been reading a lot of ruskie lit because that’s what college kids do to be cool… Wheeeeew! HELL YEAH!

A really cool run I have read recently was Mark Waid and Butch Guice’s team-up on a book called Ruse. Like my future self, Cap’n Clet, I am a huge fan of Detective stories which made this title perfect for me. Set in the interesting city of Partington their was a fella by the name of Simon Archard. He is the kind of guy you want on your side despite the fact he is brillant and knows it. (Simon is based on Sherlock.) Of course, behind every shitty man is a lady. In this case, the most astonishingly beautiful dame to every grace the pages of any book anywhere. The dame’s name is Emma Bishop. I can’t say that I saw an indication of what years this story takes place in, but I will say it was long enough ago. Defenitly, a time when people dressed properly. You know, when seeing an ankle was sexy as hell. Sometimes I wish I could see an ankle. I mean, I bet Cap’n Clet has seen a gagillion ankles… Someday I suppose?

The detective duo of Simon and Emma is perfect. He’s a dick and she is absolutely lovely, magical even. Now, Simon may be a master detective but Emma is not far behind. Not to mention, she pretty mush does all the hard work, while wearing the most amazing dresses. Nice to know chilvery is not dead. Beyond Emma and Simon this book contained a wonderful cast which included a pugalist. Yep, a goddamned pugalist. But the greatness in the cast does not end there. Another charming aspect of Ruse is that all these stories contained plays on historical events and folks. Ruse is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys mysteries written well with fitting humor to compliment the characters. Waid wrote Ruse from issue #1 thru issue #11 and co-wrote issue #12 with Scott Beatty, who happens to be a great writer in his own right. I guess that’s why he wrap up the run of Ruse. Guice provided art on all but two issues of his run with Waid. He also stuck around to wrap up this book with Beatty. And holy shit, his art is fucking fantastic. Sursly, the very definition of beauty. The other two issues were done by Jeff Johnson, with the other issue done by Paul Ryan. CrossGen really did something great by putting a book like Ruse out. Look out for the Ruse Omnibus it is a beaut! It is a must have for any lover of detective stories. Partington is a crazy little town with crazy little men with crazy little schemes. And they would have gotten away with them too, if it wasn’t for a pesky bastard and his dead sexy partner.

While I’m on the idea of ruse, I have an idea for a ruse. You see the quote of the week is always so awesome and I want to be awesome too. So I have prepared my own quote of the week. Ready… Set… Go!

Things that sould never be said on a first date:

1.“You know what’s been bugging me? Your hair.”

2.“Stifle it, bitch!”

3.“I had to shoot my baby girl in the face.”

4.“Whatever… Fuck her…”

**and the best quote in the history of quotes:
“Why are the pink lizards so nice but the blue ones don't let them play basketball in the clouds”

So what do you guys think will I ever be as awesome as Cap’n Clet?
-Maybe Someday Cap’n Dayron