The Dorks’ Abroad: Broadcasting Live from Japan!

日本

Finally, It’s been awhile since I’ve posted on the Dorks’ wall. Getting adjusted to school and not to mention Japan in general has not been an easy feat. But here is goes. The first thing, and perhaps most important, thing you need to know about Japan is that they love comics more than any other country in the world. But you won’t find familiar faces on their comic shelves. まんが (manga) is an absolute obsession in Japan. Of the month I’ve been here, I have been able to walk just a few blocks, in any direction, and find a book/comic store and in the city it is rare not to find them on every block. Truly a comic lovers dream... unless you like American comics. Now I knew when I came to Japan that I was going to have to makes some sacrifices to perhaps my biggest pastime but I was not sure to what extent. If you ever plan on going to Japan, do not expect to find American comics, even in Tokyo, to be somewhat commonplace. I’ve been living in Japan for a month and have only seen two comics, Wonder Woman and Uncanny X-Men... from like three months ago. At first this depressed me but then I realized that I had an opportunity to look into a whole new comic culture. Now I am by no means a manga expert, but I believe if you like American comics and have been thinking about looking into the manga scene, read anything by Kazuo Koike. Born in 1936, Kazuo Koike has been creating manga his entire life, often times with co-creator Goseki Kojima. Koike’s first, and perhaps most famous, work is 子連れ狼 (Lone Wolf and Cub). I was first introduced to this comic by a former ComicDorkCast member that you have grown to known and love, Rob. The story of a wandering ronin and his son has become inspiration for manga and anime creators alike. Directors and artists have also taken influences from Koike’s work. One example comes from writer/director, Quentin Tarentino. Tarentino’s Kill Bill is signficantly influenced by Koike’s work 修羅雪姫 (Lady Snowblood). Although Japan may not have my monthly fix of Hal Jordon beating up some zombies or Jamie Madrox and the Summers Rebellion, they do have a rich comic culture of their own that's popularity far surpasses that in America. Now I just gotta understand this whole…Pachinko thing. Until next time! Sayounara.


Picture 1: Me cuttin up some samurai dude
Picture 2: Just a small corner of an average japanese comic store.
Picture 3: Lady Snowblood... does that color scheme look familar?

From The Dorks’ Soundtrack: Hey! It’s the Pixies!

Pixies

Album: Doolittle

Song: "Hey"

Perhaps one of the most underrated bands of the late 80’s and early 90’s. Somehow, illogically placed behind such grunge bands as Nirvana, Pixies gained incredible success in the United Kingdom and elsewhere in Europe but achieved only limited success in the United States. The history of this band starts in Boston Mass., where Black Francis (lead singer/guitarist) and Joey Santiago (guitarist) shared a room together at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Santiago showed Francis to the music of David Bowie and 1970’s punk rock and the two formed a band. Over the next couple weeks, the band welcomed Kim Deal (bassist/singer) and David Lovering (Drums). Not much later the band signed with record label 4AD and produced their first recording, Come On Pilgrim EP. This EP was a success and debut hit songs such as “Caribou”, “Ed is Dead”, and “Nimrod’s Son”. The band quickly followed up Come On Pilgrim with their first full-length album Surfer Rosa. This album debuted possibly their most popular song to date, “Where is My Mind” along with other great songs such as “Gigantic” and “River Euphrates”. Pixies then recorded their second full-length record in the last six weeks of 1988 and produced Doolittle. Doolittle was a clear departure from the previous two works and was a much more cleaner sound than the raw sound heard on the previous two albums. The song “Hey” was featured on this album along with many other great tunes. Surfer Rosa and Doolittle together brought great attention to this east coast band, which was beginning to create music that the world had never heard. After a short hiatus the band reconvened and created two more albums Bossanova and Trompe le Monde, which was not received as well as their previous two albums. Shortly after Trompe Le Monde, the band broke up when Francis surprisingly stated on BBC that the band was finished.

11 years later, rumors began circling of a reunion. The band began touring again but was producing no new music. Black Francis stated in 2008 that he was interested in creating new music with the original band but for now it was “a waiting game”. The band has a legacy that reaches as far back as the birth of grunge. There are many music icons that were influenced by this band such as Kurt Cobain and Thom Yorke of Radiohead. Allmusic.com summed up the band perfectly:

“Combining jagged, roaring guitars and stop-start dynamics with melodic pop hooks, intertwining male-female harmonies and evocative, cryptic lyrics, the Pixies were one of the most influential American alternative rock bands of the late '80s. The Pixies weren't accomplished musicians -- Black Francis wailed and bashed out chords while Joey Santiago's lead guitar squealed out spirals of noise. But the band members were inventive, rabid rock fans who turned conventions inside out, melding punk and indie guitar rock, classic pop, surf rock, and stadium-sized riffs with singer/guitarist Black Francis' bizarre, fragmented lyrics about space, religion, sex, mutilation, and pop culture; while the meaning of his lyrics may have been impenetrable, the music was direct and forceful.”

The Albums
Come On Pilgrim (1987)
Surfer Rosa (1988)
Doolittle (1989)
Bossanova (1990)
Trompe de Monde (1991)

Brief Mentions: The Future Brings Dark Days

X-Factor #45

Written By: Peter David

Art By: Marco Santucci @ Valentine de Landro

I’m finally caught up and it feels good. For along time now I have been buying X-Factor issues but not reading them. The main obstacle standing in my way was the Secret Invasion crossover. One factor (no pun intended) was that Secret Invasion was an event that I was no longer concerned about and secondly was the art. But, as always, Peter David’s storytelling continues to become more involved, more emotional, and more awesome. This last week I decided to soldier through the horrendous art and read up to this week’s current issue X-Factor #45, part 3 of Madrox’s journey into the future. This issue has made me so glad that I am finally caught up in issues. David continues to create new and exciting stories, filled with unique new characters and concepts. Jamie Madrox finds himself in the middle of the Summers Rebellion consisting of a battered Scott Summers and his daughter, Ruby. The fate of this rebellion lies in the hands of a familiar foe from long ago. The mystery of the cortex also furthers as the xf investigators frantically try to figure out the cortex’s meaning while being battled on all fronts. Marco Santucci and Valentine de Landro absolutely destroy on this art. I will never take good art for granted ever again. This is just an excellent book and has been since it’s beginning. I urge everyone to check this book out and read some amazing comic booking that is easily some of the best in the industry.

Dark Avengers #6

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: Mike Deodato @ Will Conrad

Dark Reign has been a very fulfilling event. Many great books have come out of this event and one such book is Dark Avengers. Just the concept of the book itself is an amazing one. The head of the avengers is the “former” Green Goblin, the rest of the team consists of some of the greatest villains in the Marvel Universe and their most powerful weapon, The Sentry, has the mind of a child. In Dark Avengers #6, an Atlantean terrorist cell has attacked American soil. Norman Osborn immediately takes hold of the situation and attacks swiftly and brutally. The Cabal meets, which ultimately leads to a shouting match, and the power of The Sentry is put to use. Superhero team books are only successful if they remain interesting and hold a unique, dynamic team and Bendis definitely has that with Dark Avengers. Mike Deodato and Will Conrad do an excellent job drawing these characters and also shade the book heavily, which holds true to the “dark” theme of the book. Dark Avengers, along with many other books under the “Dark Reign” banner is excellent. The Marvel Universe becomes more and more unique with each passing issue. This is one of the first Marvel events that have really enjoyed and I hope it will not be the last.

From the Dorks' Soundtrack: A Delta Blues Revival?

Two Gallants

Album: The Throes

Song: You Losin' Out

As the ComicDorkscast episodes continue their climb in number, the more bands are also introduced. What is surprising is that week after week, I find bands that absolutely must be talked about. This week, we head to the indie rock duo from San Francisco known as Two Gallants, sharing the name of a James Joyce short story. This band is composed of Adam Stephens (guitar, harmonica, vocals) and Tyson Vogel (drums and vocals). The band formed in 2002 when both musicians were 20 years old. Prior to Two Gallants, Stephens and Vogel had been playing and writing music since they were twelve. They even self-produced two albums before their debut, but those albums are regrettably out of print. The Two Gallants first shows were played in parks, warehouses, house parties and other small “venues”. In 2004, Two Gallants came out with their first album The Throes. With this album came larger venues, clubs and even festivals. Two years later they put out their second studio album, What the Toll Tells. They kept the music coming and one year later came out with their third and recent album, Two Gallants. By this time the band had gained substantial notoriety and began to play festivals not only in the US but also in Canada and Europe. The band also gained music press attention for an incident at a performance in Houston, Texas, when a police officer investigating a noise complaint at the club Walter's on Washington allegedly attacked the band and several fans present with a taser…. Oh Texas. Despite the taser attack, Two Gallants have gone on to produce some of the most jaw-dropping blues heard in American music today. When listening to Two Gallants you can’t help but be drawn to the roots of rock, delta blues. You can almost feel Robert Johnson or John Lee Hooker on guitar. In tangent with this powerful music medium, the chord structure and finger picking style also creates a folk feel. These two genres mixed together create some the most unique and “true” music heard today. If you enjoy this band then I hope you follow them to their roots and discover what the grandfathers of music have to offer.

Albums:

The Throes (2004)

What the Toll Tells (2006)

Two Gallants (2007)

**Picture above - John Lee Hooker... Nice Socks! Enjoy!**

From the Dorks’ Soundtrack: A Breath of Fresh AIR.

AIR

Album: The Virgin Suicides

Song: Playground Love

One of the greatest aspects about music is it’s eclectic nature. When my iTunes is on shuffle one moment you could be listening to Mos Def’s The New Danger then the next you could be listening to the sufferings of Big Bill Broonzy. I was sorting comics yesterday for 6 hours, and for those six hours shuffle showed me some bands that the ComicsDorksCast has yet to enlighten our listening audience with. There were many bands that were contenders but around hour 4 of the sorting process, a band came on that I knew would be that band, the French music duo known simply as AIR (a backronym standing for Amour, Imagination, Rêve which translates to Love, Imagination, Dream.) Nicolas Godin and Jean-Benoît Dunckel have been creating truly unique music since 1995 and they continue to this day. Both Godin and Dunckel grew up in the city of Versailles but did not meet until college. Having different bands at the time, the two artists finally joined forces to create Air in 1995. After three years of EP releases and singles, AIR signed with Virgin Records and produces their first album Moon Safari. This album is considered some a classic album of the “chillout” genre. Since then, AIR has produced 4 more studio albums all adding new colors to their already extensive musical palette. Their most recent album was Pocket Symphony, which was released in 2007. Some moods that are associated with AIR can be described as detached, cold, dreamy, eerie, clinical, soothing, ethereal, gloomy, atmospheric, smooth, quirky, nocturnal, reflective, brooding, elegant, hypnotic laid-back/ mellow, gentle, spacey (not Kevin), sparkling, and sexy… oh yes… very sexy. As it can be easily seen, AIR is honestly a hard band to put into words. They have a strange ability to produce the most calming music on the airwaves today. They are a band that is reviving the genre of disco but with a 21st century spin. They are something new - a breath of fresh air.

The Albums:
Moon Safari
The Virgin Suicides
10,000 Hz Legend
Talkie Walkie
Pocket Symphony

The Others:
Premiers Symptômes
Everybody Hertz
City Reading (Tre Storie Western)
Late Night Tales: Air

Similar Artists:
* Trinkwasser
* Radiohead
* Jimi Tenor
* Boards of Canada
* Kid Loco
* Bent
* Nightmares on Wax
* Towa Tei
* Tim "Love" Lee
* Drum Island
* Broadcast
* Komeda
* Morcheeba
* Mono
* Stereolab
* Seeland
* Marsmobil
* Seksu Roba
* Cornelius
* Beck
* Cibo Matto

Influenced By:
* The Rockets
* Ric Ocasek
* Mark Mothersbaugh
* The Cars
* Burt Bacharach
* The Beach Boys
* Heaven 17
* Jean-Michel Jarre
* Tomita
* Perrey-Kingsley

**Air is also a comic... a coincidence?... I think not. Enjoy!

What I’m Reading Now: Barry Ween Boy Genius… Related to Dean or Gene?

The Adventures of Barry Ween: Boy Genius

Written By: Judd Winick

Art By: Judd Winick

This is more of a nostalgic post. When I was getting into comics, I stuck close to familiar titles: basically anything from the big two. Superman, Batman and X-Men were the titles that were frequent on my pull and hold list. One of the first titles that strayed from the comfortable was The Adventures of Barry Ween: Boy Genius. This was a title that really showed me that companies such as Oni-Press and other companies had a lot to offer. This book also made me a life long fan of Judd Winick – his words and his art. Barry Ween was very early in Judd Winick’s comic career. The title explains to overall plot of the story. Barry Ween, very much in the fashion of Dexter from Dexter’s Laboratory, is a boy genius whose inventions often cause him to get into trouble. Winick interweaves adventure and comedy to create a comic that should be on every serious comic reader’s shelf. Garth Ennis has this to say about this series:

“Barry Ween is Calvin & Hobbes on PCP with a copy of Mein Kampf thrown into the mix. Barry will take comics by storm and tomorrow the world!”

See! Look at that. Calvin & Hobbes, Drugs and Nazis… what else do you what? Winick’s website has talked about a return to Barry Ween in 2010 but for now we have four great books of action, adventure and comedy. Last Wednesday, Oni-Press released The Big Book of Barry Ween: Boy Genius, which collects all four books and every panel of Barry Ween ever written. I think that’s enough said.


There's Winick drawing Barry Ween himself*

What I’m Reading Now: Furry Creatures + Swords = Adorably Badass

Mice Templar

Written By: Bryan J.L. Glass

Art By: Michael Avon Oeming

When you think of mice and rats, what comes to mind? Laboratories? Cheese? A kung-fu master and leader of the ninja turtles? Well prepare to think again. Michael Avon Oeming & Bryan J.L. Glass takes you to the world of Mice Templar. In Cricket’s Glen, a future hero is born. His name is Karic and he has a great destiny laid before him. Mice and rats are at war; the time of the templar is long since past, and mice begin to falter in their faith to Wotan, god of the templar. In the first six issues of this series, Oeming and Glass envelope us in this new world and give us an in depth look at these characters. The journey of Karic is an epic one, using reminiscent virtues from Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to J. R. R. Tolkein’s Lord of the Rings. Oeming and Glass bring virtues fantasy together and also describing a compelling and action packed story. Oeming, a veteran in the comic medium, offers great pencils to this book and enhances the action and plot. This story was recently collected into an excellent hardcover collection and just in time for the release of Mice Templar: Destiny #1 in the coming months. After reading this and you are yearning for more furry adventures, another great title is David Petersen’s Mouse Guard. Both these titles give a whole knew spin about what people think about mice. When you think of mice and rats, what comes to mind? The correct answer is badasses.


Check out more online yo! http://www.hiddenrobot.com/MICETEMPLAR/

Brief Mentions: The Fantastic and The Long Awaited

Detective Comics #853

Written By: Neil Gaiman

Art By: Andy Kubert

After the “death” of Batman at the end of Final Crisis, Detective Comics and Batman have taken an interesting turn. After a fantastic run by Paul Dini on Detective Comics the reins were handed over to Neil Gaiman and Andy Kubert. This week we got the conclusion to “Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?” Gaiman gives a very fantastic approach to this classic character. Such detail goes into this story from the alternating death scenes to Mad Hatter’s buttons. It was great to see the different ways that Batman died all symbolizing the man behind the mask. Instead of rehashing the same origin story that we have all read hundreds of times, Gaiman puts a new spin on this old tale at gives it a whole new look. This story is a great read for any diehard Batman fans. Not only do we get to see a slew of minor characters but also past events in Batman’s life are explored and the book really does and excellent job explaining the importance of Batman in the DC universe. Also the prose throughout the comic is a lot more poetic that most Batman comics that have been produced. Also Andy Kubert refashions Gotham adding hints of fantasy and dark romanticism, very reminiscent of Tim Burton’s Gotham. Neil Gaiman does a fantastic job and provides a new, refreshing story that has been seen in a Batman issue for quite some time.

Star Wars: Dark Times

Written By: Mick Harrison

Art By: Douglas Wheatley

A long time ago, in a comic book store a couple miles away, Dark Times #12 came out. Many months later, Dark Horse Comics proudly presents Dark Times # 13 part one of the “Blue Harvest” story arc. When I was a kid, I always thought that the time that Darth Vader was hunting Jedi would have excellent story capabilities. That time has come. The story picks up after some events that occurred in Rebellion and Dass Jennir finds himself on the planet, Telerath. With Jennir being one of the last of a dying order, the story is very rich and exciting as compared to other titles where Jedi are numerous. Harrison explores the faulty view of the sith and their complex political practices…o… and it also has fighting, gangs and Jedis. This team really offers a great experience and does a great job of keeping the Star Wars universe and colorful and diverse as it really is. The Jedi order is quickly ending and Darth Vader is rising to power, read more to see what happens next.

From The Dorks’ Soundtrack: Good News for People Who Love Good Music!

Modest Mouse

Song: "Doin' the Cockroach"

Album: The Lonesome Crowded West


That’s right ladies and gentlemen, an article about the legendary band, Modest Mouse (MM). MM has been hitting the music scene for 16 years now, from playing small clubs in Issaquah, Washington, to sold-out venues across the world. I first started listening to MM freshman year of high school when they released, Good News for People Who Love Bad News (2004). I have such a love for this band because that album was the first album that opened doors for me to start listening to newer/indie music. I immediately hunted down their entire discography and have been a fan ever since. But enough about me, it's all about the band.

With their beginnings rooted in Issaquah, Washington, MM was composed of singer/lyricist/guitarist Isaac Brock (singer/lyricist/guitarist), drummer Jeremiah Green (drummer), and Eric Judy (bassist). In 1994, they released their first EP, Blue Cadet-3, Do You Connect, and two years later came out with their first album This Is a Long Drive for Someone with Nothing to Think About (1996). This album was followed a year later by Lonesome Crowded West. Many fans hail this album as their “breakthrough” album and received many accolades claiming it to be one of the best albums of the decade. After the success of their second album, the band signed with Epic Records and in 2000 release their first album under that label, The Moon & Antarctica. Pitchfork Media ranked the album as the third best album of 2000, trailing Kid A by Radiohead and Ágætis Byrjun by Sigur Rós. Brock also released an album with his side project, Ugly Casanova at this time.

With continued success the band created more unique music and sharpened their sound even more. In 2004, they released Good News for People Who Love Bad News. This album provided MM with mainstream notoriety. With hits such as, “The World At Large”, “Bukowski”, and of course “Float On”, MM received increased radio play from this platinum-selling album.



With commercial success at their back, MM sailed into their next album with a new addition, The Smith’s guitarist Johnny Marr. MM and Marr released We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank in 2007. Brock describes this album and the introduction of Johnny Marr:

"He made a cautious commitment to write and record with us, and then the tighter we got, he was like, ‘okay, let's tour too'. Then he was pretty much a member of the band-- not pretty much. He's a full blown member of the band. It's really fuckin' nice." According to Brock, Marr was involved in songwriting on the album, and will even tour with the band in support of it. In the interview, Brock described We Were Dead... as a "nautical balalaika carnival romp". Johnny Marr later responded to Brock's comments by saying "Isaac contacted me and asked if I'd help Modest Mouse write the new album. I was intrigued and played with the band in Portland a couple of times. We hit it off and wrote three great songs straight away, something clicked, it felt right from the off. I have a new Healers album pretty much done, but we've been having such a good time playing these new Modest Mouse songs. When people hear the record they'll see why, we're very good together."


MM is also releasing No One's First and You're Next, an upcoming EP that will feature unreleased tracks and b-sides from their previous two studio albums. MM has made unique and genre-defying music for 16 years and I hope to see much more in the years to come.



Albums:
This Is a Long Drive for Someone with Nothing to Think About (1996)
The Lonesome Crowded West (1997)
The Moon & Antarctica (2000)
Good News for People Who Love Bad News (2004)
We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank (2007)

EPs:
Blue Cadet-3, Do You Connect? (1994)
Interstate 8 (1996)
The Fruit That Ate Itself (1997)
Night on the Sun (1999)
Everywhere and His Nasty Parlour Tricks (2001)
No One's First and Your Next (2009)

Compilations:
Build Nothing Out of Something (2000)
Sad Sappy Sucker (2001)


Pictures: The Lonesome Crowded West, Isaac Brock, Johnny Marr, Modest Mouse

Brief Mentions: Kirkman… You Scare Me…

Destroyer #1

Written By: Robert Kirkman

Art By: Corey Walker

This book almost passed me by. I did not even know of this book until 3 hours after I had already purchased my books for the week. A few days later, I returned to my local comic shop and purchased Destroyer #1. After some intense research, (going to wikipedia) I found some interesting information on this long forgotten hero of yesteryear. Destroyer’s origin is very similar to that of Captain America and was created in 1941 under Marvels old moniker, Timely Comics. Behind the mask is American Journalist, Keen Marlow, who is captured by Nazis during WWII. An anti-Nazi German scientist gives Marlow the super soldier serum and Marlow joins the ranks of superhumans. Since his debut in the 40’s, Destroyer slowly fell from the comic pages and forever trapped in the pages of the golden age, until now. Creative team Robert Kirkman and Corey Walker (Invincible anyone?), decide to revive this long dead superhero under the MAX comics banner. Here is some advice… KEEP THIS COMIC FAR FAR FAR FAR FAR FAR FAR out of reach of children. The MAX title is not a joke. I haven’t seen this much blood since…o wait… I guess the last issue of Invincible… but it’s still really bloody. Kirkman really jumps into the story and develops and excellent first issue and raises many plot devices and questions. Corey Walker’s art is simply astounding and is able to make gore even gorier. This five issue miniseries is going to be a great read and a very intense rollercoaster ride. Witness the resurrection of Destroyer!


The Invincible Iron Man #12

Written By: Matt Fraction

Art By: Salvador Larroca

The reign of darkness continues and things are becoming bleaker for our ironclad hero. Norman Osborn is now the center of American defenses. And Pepper Potts: Superhero? Eleven issues ago I did not read Iron Man and had no prior reading experience with the character. I never personally cared for the character of Tony Stark because he caused the demise of one of the most beloved comic characters of all time. He just seemed like a drunk that I could not relate to…. O how wrong I was. With just twelve issues, Fraction and Larroca has truly made me come to love this character. Every hero is a definition of the hardships they face (I promise I’m not quoting zoom) and Stark’s heroism is being put to the test. Also seeing Pepper Potts in an iron man suit is one of the coolest ideas seen in comics in a long time. I loved Pepper Potts in The Order and am glad to see that the character didn’t disappear into nothingness. If there is anyone out there who loves this book and hasn’t read The Order…. GO READ IT NOW!!!! The Order was the first exposure I ever had to Matt Fraction’s work and I have been a fan ever since. I don’t think I need to say that Larroca’s art continues to be stunning as always and really helps the book come to life. As we know (from the KC PlanetComicon special) things are going to get worse for Tony but hey… he’s made of iron for a reason right?

What I’m Reading Now: The Big Ole Book Of Violence

The Punisher Omnibus

Written By: Garth Ennis

Art By: Steve Dillon, Darick Robertson, Tom Mandrake, Cam Kennedy, John McCrea, Joe Quesada, Doug Braithwaite


“And get a haircut.” These four words were the beginning of what would be an eight-year run for Garth Ennis on The Punisher. My relationship with Punisher begins with The Punisher MAX series issue #37, part 1 of the “Man of Stone” story arc. I followed Ennis’ run all the way until his unfortunate departure in 2008 with “Valley Forge, Valley Forge.” The first time I saw Punisher in his original costume was in 2008 with Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon’s Punisher: War Zone - a six issue mini-series concluding Ennis and Dillon’s 46 (ish) issue Marvel Knights series (including “Welcome Back Frank”). Now I know that reading the last six issues of a series doesn’t make a whole lot of sense and believe me, it didn’t. I had no idea who the characters were (besides Frank obviously) and what was going on. It was a well-crafted story and enjoyable but I wish I had some background information. Several months ago, I saw that a Punisher Omnibus, collecting all of Garth Ennis’ Marvel Knights (#1-12, #1-7, #13-37, and Punisher Kills the Marvel Universe). Recently, I was able to require this big book of violence in all its 10 lbs glory (yea, I weighted it. Wanna fight about it?) Don’t worry though, it doesn’t put your leg to sleep while you read it. This series so far has everything I want: violence, comedy, and Frank Castle. The experience is kind of like watching Star Wars Episode 4-6 and then discovering how Darth Vader came to be. This creative team is meant to work together and their work, including Preacher, is some of the best in comics. The omnibus contains 56 issues and will set you back about 100 bones. But think about it, 56 issues for 100 dollars? I say yes. It’s a fast, fun, and entertaining read and is worth every penny. Plus the books sheer size could do some punishing itself. So relive Ennis’ epic Punisher run or read it for the first time, either way, THERE WILL BE BLOOD!!


There's the man himself, Garth Ennis!

Living Up To Expectation: Some Comics Leave Us Speechless; Some Comics We Don’t Have Enough To Say

Invincible #60

Written By: Robert Kirkman

Art By: Ryan Ottley

Wow! Just read it.










The Punisher #3

Written By: Rick Remender

Art By: Jerome Opena

Some comics consistently remind me monthly why I read comics. In depth characters, impossible scenarios and beautiful artwork are just a few reasons. The Punisher fulfills all of these. Written by Rick Remender with art by Jarome Opena, The Punisher is really making its mark in the Marvel publishing house. Since issue #1 with the face off between Frank Castle and the Sentry I knew this was the beginning of something great. It’s hard to imagine any one coming close to the great work Garth Ennis did for ten years on this character but Remender comes damn near close and doesn’t have the comfort of a MAX title. Punisher has recruited a sidekick, an oracle-esque computer whiz, capable of hacking and tracking almost anything possible. Seeing Punisher in the old school Punisher uniform is also a treat. Jerome Opena puts really dark pencils on these pages and remind me of a Daredevil or Captain America book (which is a huge compliment). Killing is The Punisher’s business and in this era of Dark Reign – killing is good. Punisher takes to the streets and strategically takes out the criminal element. The hood appears to start some trouble as well as mysterious figure (who likes to play chess). Remender and Opena really have a great handle on this character and masterfully balance the violence and action to provide great story telling. So embrace Dark Reign and enter the world of The Punisher.

Ryan Ottley drew a great review of Invincible #60 this week. It looks like this:

Brief Mentions: From Pharaohs to Heroes

Booster Gold #18

Written By: Dan Jurgens

Art By: Norm Rapmund

The greatest hero you’ve never heard of may very well be the greatest comic book you’ve never heard of. Booster Gold is a comic book that has really flourished after post-johns era and continues to produce great story telling. Written by Dan Jurgens (who originally created the character) with art by Norm Rapmund, Booster Gold #18 provides a classic comic experience: good guys, bad guys, and big fight at the end. My first exposure to Booster Gold occurs in the pages of 52 and I’m not going to lie – I hated him. He was just that character that was easy hate. He was a sold-out superhero who put himself primarily before anyone else. Where I saw a horrible character Geoff Johns saw potential. After two story arcs with Johns, Booster Gold has been in the capable hands of Dan Jurgens. Issue #18 is the finale of the “Reality Lost” story arc. Booster Gold along with his sister Goldstar and sidekick Skeets, travel time with out the time master, Rip Hunter, and try to track down the creation of a certain dagger. This trip ultimately leads to Egypt. One underlines theme to this book is a look at how fragile time is. Events that occurred of 4000 years ago directly affect the lives of the heroes today. If you are a fan of Back to the Future (ALL 3 OF THEM!) then you will love this time traveling trio. Norm Rapmund provides excellent pencils that really enhance the story telling. It is a great book and I hope to see in the hands of more readers in the future… or maybe the past…time traveling is confusing.

Batman Confidential #27

Written By: Nunzio DeFilippis & Christina Weir

Art By: Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez

So Bruce Wayne is gone. He is no longer throughout the pages of Batman Detective Comics and Batman. So maybe your asking yourself: What is a Batman book without Bruce Wayne? Well I have good news for you. For those Bruce Wayne Batman fans you can find refuge throughout the pages of Batman Confidential. Batman Confidential is a series that is focused on the early years of Gotham’s Caped Crusader. This story as well provides excellent comic reading experience and also focuses on minor characters throughout Gotham as well. Batman Confidential #27, written by Nunzio DeFilippis & Christina Weir with art by Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, is part 2 of “Riddle of the Sphinx” story arc. King Tut is going around Gotham using The Riddler’s m.o to attack a museum’s board of trustees (who dress quite scantily might I add). So in this issue we see a SUPERHERO SUPERVILLAIN T-TEAM UP! Nigma and Bruce join forces to discover who is behind these attacks and how to stop them. It’s excellent to see The Riddler’s humor juxtaposed to Bruce’s serious attitude. These two distinctly different personalities provide for great character interaction and dialogue. So if you need a little Bruce Wayne in your life, then check out Batman Confidential. Enjoy!

What I’m Reading Now: Samurais + Sci-Fi = Yes Please!

Ronin

Written and Drawn: Frank Miller

Painted By: Lynn Varley

There are many things I love. As you all know, I love comics. As some of you know, I love sci-fi. And news flash, coming down the wire, I love Ronin. Written and drawn by Frank Miller and painted by Lynn Varley, Ronin is a truly unique comic experience. Created in 1983 under DC publishing house, Ronin hit the shelves in the form of a six-issue miniseries. This was a stepping-stone in Miller’s career marking his first creator-owned title; approximately 8 years before Miller’s claim to fame Sin City title. Ronin is story about a master-less samurai who now travels the world searching for the demon that slain his mentor. Sounds like a pretty complete story right? Well, that happens in the first ten pages. After that, Miller kicks the story in high gear and we are thrust into a dystopian future. The reader, as well as the Ronin, becomes immersed in a world much unlike our own. I know what you’re thinking: Is this Samurai Jack? Well first off… he’s a RONIN (totally different)!! And secondly, Ronin came first… sooooo there.

If there are any fans of the much-missed Samurai Jack, Ronin is a godsend. Jack and Ronin share many of the same themes and is ultimately a contest between the forces of good and evil. Miller’s art is also stunning. At first, it took a while to get used to and it my first gut reaction was not to like it. But after reading more, the art really began to mold with the story and Miller does a great job of mimicking the manga (Japanese comics… though you probably already knew that) style. He also mimics manga in his narrative style as well. This provides one of the most unique and stylized comics still on the shelves. My philosophy is go big or go home so I have the very sexy absolute edition which has fold out pages……. O maybe you didn’t hear me. FOLD OUT PAGES!!!!!! So if you like samurais, demons, ronins, blood swords, hot chicks, awesome cartoons, Frank Miller, life, or comics...well, I think you know what you should do. Tachi!

From the Dorks' Soundtrack: Changing My Major to Cardinology

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals

Album: Cold Roses

Song: "Cold Roses"

On Thursday, I traveled to the Missouri Theater to see Ryan Adams and the Cardinals. I have been a Ryan Adams fan since Easy Tiger and was very excited to see the show. Born in Jacksonville, Carolina, in 1974, Ryan Adams dropped out of high school to pursue is music career. He played in many local bands and in 2000 landed in a solo album, Heartbreaker. In 2005, he joined The Cardinals with the release of Cold Roses (which the episodes song is taken from) and produced five more albums his most recent being Cardinology, released in 2008. Recently, Adams has announced that he will retire from music to pursue his writing career. In April 2009, Adams will be releasing a book entitled Infinity Blues. Being only 34, it seems strange that such a immensely successful musician would want to leave the scene at the height of his career. But don’t fear, I feel we haven’t heard the last of Mr. Adams. Despite my faith in his return, I decided that it was essential to see him before he departed the music scene. Luckily the Missouri Theater was hosting a special night with Ryan Adams & The Cardinals. I was sitting on the balcony – front and center. The next two hours was one of the most interesting live performances I have ever seen. Playing many of his songs from his solo work to his work with the Cardinals, Adams is truly proud of what he has created. Adams is also an master of show banter. With a excellent blend of mind-blowing music and gut-busting laughter, The Cardinals are masters of entertainment. Ryan Adams has provided us with eleven fantastic albums in 9 years and I hope that he will take center stage once again. But for now it’s goodbye.


(*note the Star Wars shirt.... guy knows good movies what can I say?*)

What I’m Reading Now: Who Watches The Watchmen?

“Dog carcass in alley this morning, tired tread on burst stomach. This city is afraid of me. I have seen its true face.” Ah, yes. A light-hearted line that only Alan Moore can deliver. I sit typing this article only four hours from the Watchman midnight premiere. If you are reading comic blogs and subscribe to our podcast then chances are that you have already had the chance to read this amazing twelve issue limited series. Written in 1986, Moore and Gibbons really thrust us in a world filled with nuclear fear and slow decay of society. The U.S. is protected by a society of superheroes inspired by comic book until Dr. Manhattan, a true super powered being, emerges. With this comic, Moore and Gibbons push the potential of what a superhero comic could be. It created genres that artists have been exploring since. Watchmen represents a crucial moment in comic history - as crucial as the creation of Superman and Batman. Upon hearing there was going to be a film adaptation to this already amazing piece of work, I was skeptical. Upon further consideration, I believe that any director gutsy enough to take on such a challenge deserves my attention as well as my seven dollars. Also, Rorschach is one of my favorite comic book characters and I am excited to see how he will transpose on the big screen. The cast of this movie is relatively unknown cast, which will be interesting to see how they work together to present one of the greatest works of comic fiction. Tonight represents an giant leap for comic kind and all comic lovers should go out and support the Watchmen movie. Friday night the ComicDorks will be at Chesterfield 14 to help usher in the Watchmen opening weekend. We hope to see you out in numbers supporting what you love most. The Dorks will also be traveling to Joplin to attend Hurly Con. If you’re in the area, you should also stop by and meet some great comic creators from the heartland. It's a weekend of comics so get involved!

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.”

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.

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

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)