Vault #3 - Review

Issue: Vault #3
Writer: Sam Sarkar
Artist: Garrie Gastonny
Publisher: Image Comics
Release Date: October 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $2.99

“After a confrontation with the Angel of Death that has destroyed their robot and killed one crew member, the team makes it back on board The Revelation believing the creature is dead.  They’re wrong.  Very wrong.”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
I can only think of one word to officially sum up this mini series and it is, WOW! From the start this series has been a non-stop horror thrill ride and this final issue was just ball’s to the wall. The pacing in this issue started slow and then built and built until my brain couldn’t take anymore. It is easy to see why this will be an upcoming film, because the comic played out like one. Great writing by Sakar drives this series and I expect it to be on a good deal of award nominee lists. The artwork in this issue drives the horror element home. Gastonny has such command over the art pen, that I was left shaking in my boots every time the monster would appear. This mini is comfortable sitting in my top 5 series of 2011.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Vault #3 you can find it at http://www.imagecomics.com/

Xenoholics #1 – Review

Issue: Xenoholics #1
Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist: Seth Damoose
Cover: Dan Duncan
Publisher: Image Comics – Shadowline
Release Date: October 2011
Pages: 28
Price: $3.50

“Are you addicted to aliens? Late night Encounters? Abductions? Probes? The XenoHolics are here to help!

Because everyone thinks they’re a bunch of nutcases, a support group that claims aliens abducted them try to prove that aliens are real. But that’s much easier said than done and they find themselves caught up in not just ONE government conspiracy, but TWO. Oh, yeah and along the way they learn who is lying about being abducted? and who is telling the truth. “

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
THE ALIENS ARE COMING! THE ALIENS ARE COMING! At least some people think so, and that is what leads me to check out Xenoholics by Williamson and Damoose. I have to admit I am a fan of Josh’s writing so this one was a no-brainer pick up for me. The story is full of mystery, jokes and great progression. I love the way that this issue started, giving the background on a specific member of the cast, and then leading into the group. Like I said there are great jokes here, but the story is also very entertaining on all levels, a solid read. I have seen Seth’s work before in the amazing Nightmare World books, so I am no stranger to what he brings to the table. What works here is Damoose’s style, which had a cartoonish feel to it that just lends to the story so perfectly. I loved the scenes where I saw the group at their homes. This team is setting down the foundation to what I know will be a great series. The writing is amazing, the concept is engaging and the art is the final nail in the coffin. This book is easily the newest member of my group of books that I call “Decapitated Dan’s books you need to read!”

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Xenoholics you can find it at www.imagecomics.com

Green Wake #6 – Review

Issue: Green Wake #6
Writer: Kurtis Wiebe
Artist: Riley Rossmo
Publisher: Image
Release Date: October 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $3.50

“The next chapter of the critically acclaimed saga returns and the face of Green Wake has been forever changed. A new threat to the once-quiet shores surfaces when rowboats wash ashore with nothing but fresh blood as a passenger and a new arrival begins a campaign to unite Green Wake’s inhabitants with unknown purpose.”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
I think a new word is needed to describe the horror and mystery storytelling, both written and visual, that is going on in Green Wake, and I want to call it Wieley, someone call Websters. Wieley (being a mix of the creators names) is basically the mixture of mystery, suspense and horror that you can find within the pages of this book. The story begins with a great starting point after the first arc. There is a jaw dropping opening scene, which I will get back to in a bit, but the writing here is top-notch. With a typical first issue in an arc, you get the basic story of catching up and then the building process begins to take shape. Wiebe brings it all to this issue to keep readers, like me, on track for more. The storyline is full of Wieley and I am hooked yet again. The artwork by Riley is presented at its highest point with that opening scene. Let me just say that when you can sneak little things in like he did, you had me at “Ribbit.” I missed this series and it has only been a month since the trade came out. The Wieley factor is high, and I can not stress enough that you should be reading this series. It is easily in my top 3 of 2011. I am so happy to be back in Green Wake.

Artwork: 5.0 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Green Wake you can find it at http://greenwakecomic.com/

Dream Reavers #1 – Review

Issue: Dream Reavers #1
Writer: Raphael Moran
Artists: Marc Borstel, Atul Bakshi, David Hedmark
Publisher: Ape Entertainment
Release Date: October 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $3.99

“Teens with strange powers from around the world suddenly go into a fatal coma all at the exact same time. When they awaken from beyond the veil of dreams they end up caught in between an epic war on another world called, Astral. Surrounded by monstrous beings, they must fight their way toward a mysterious spire that holds all of their answers. Be prepared for an epic series unlike anything you’ll read this year.”

Dying Breath: 4.0 out of 5
What do you get when you mix teens with dreams and a realm full of horror elements? Why Dream Reavers of course! The story in this book is very intriguing and mysterious. While this issue basically introduces the reader to the cast, you still get a good amount of “I can’t wait for this to be explained” moments. The ending really solidified me coming back, because I have to know how all of this will play out, and if Freddy Krueger will show up! No that last part is just a joke. The pacing is spot on, the action is there and this is one great read. In this first issue though, the artwork takes the slight advantage. While most of the book is full of great character designs and beautiful colors, it is one scene that has this throw back to old school comics that steals the show. Well it is mostly the GORE-Geous full-page image where characters go crashing through a wall. All in all this is an amazing looking, great reading, edge of your seat comic that delivers on all levels. BRING ON THE MONSTERS!!!!

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.0 out of 5
If you would like to buy or know more about Dream Reavers you can find it at http://www.http://ape-entertainment.com/

Bob Howard: Plumber of the Unknown #3 – Review

Issue: Bob Howard: Plumber of the Unknown #3
Writer: Rafael Nieves
Artist: Dan Dougherty
Publisher: Nieves + Dougherty
Release Date: August 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $5.00

“In the third issue of Bob Howard: Plumber of the Unknown, the everyman monster hunter finds himself finds himself battling a nemesis who goes undercover, and introduces two new supporting characters. Story and art by Dan Dougherty, script by Rafael Nieves. In the second story, Bob takes a job as a movie theater usher, not realizing that he is going to be the star in his own creature feature! By Nieves and Dougherty.”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
I’m beginning to ask myself how many voices Rafael Nieves hears in his head, because this man can write an accent! Good lord ol’ mighty how does it get done so damn well? The first story in this issue could possibly be my favorite Bob Howard story yet. It had me cracking up from start to finish. The second story though seemed to be a little rougher around the edges, and I really think it was because of having to come up with a way to get all 60+ contributors into the book. However nothing is taken away from the whole. The writing in this issue holds up so well with the previous 2 issues. Dan Dougherty’s artwork is again GORE-Geous, and no it is not just because my glorious head is in the book. To be able to do a 4 page spread with 60+ original characters is amazing in its own right, but still the gray’s in Dan’s work make it so unbelievably great. Bob Howard is a comic book for the every man and horror fan alike, it should be in your read pile as of yesterday.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Bob Howard: Plumber of the Unknown #3 you can find it at http://www.facebook.com/bob.howard.plumber

Kokomo Con Recap

Kokomo Con - October 8, 2011

As always I love going to shows I have been to before, so I was really excited to be heading back to Kokomo Con in Kokomo, IN. Unlike last year though, this year I was behind the Dark Delights table to sell some awesome horror comics, like I had in Detroit. So Amy and I headed down the night before the show to get a good nights rest in preperation for the next days events. In the morning we headed over to the convention center to setup, we chatted with some friends and then the doors opened.

The Kokomo Event Center home of Kokomo Con!

Shawn Hilton, the promoter, and I are good friends so I was really hoping for a great turnout this year. The show floor had expanded to include more guests, vendors and one Batmobile. The talent on hand, and of course the car, was a steal for the price of admission. The doors opened at 10 and the fun began.

Shawn Hilton, the man, the myth, the promoter!

The stream of people was constant throughout the day. There was a good handful of cosplayers to take pictures of, and there was even a local group doing zombie/monster makeup. The winner of that group was a little girl with a zipper face, very awesome. The patrons had tons to see and buy, from comics, toys, swords, games and so much more. Shawn did a great job of getting a wide array of merchandise there for the masses.

Busy day at Kokomo Con.

A big highlight of the show for me was being next to my friends Dustin and Brian Carson. After getting to know them more at Detroit, it was a pleasant surprise to find my setup right next to them, so we spent the day laughing and having some good conversations. Right across from us were Sean and Stephanie Forney, who had a great setup and were selling there awesome little hero piggy banks. Of course we had plenty of other friends on hand not too far from us; Jon Kulczar, Tony Maldonado, Rafael Nieves, Dan Doughetry, Troy Hickman, Tim Baron, Scott Simmons and so many others (sorry if I didn't mention you, I still love you).
 

Dustin and Brian Carson

The show was a lot of fun, attendance was way up but sadly the people were still not loving all the horror goodies that I had to offer. I really think that it comes down to two factors. One is that horror comics are still only 10% of the comic landscape so when you factor in that only 10% of the people there might be interested it kinda stinks. Two is that fact that while I have all of these awesome titles the creators are not on hand to help pitch them. I did do some good sales though at the show. I had one person spend over $80 and another over $60 so it was a profitable day for some.

Amy was trying to box me up at the end of the day. (Photo by Scott Simmons)

All in all I love this show. I love smaller shows because you get a chance to comfortably talk to creators without all the hustle and bustle of everyone trying to get a word in. The friendships you can make at a smaller show also go a longer ways, again playing back to being able to really get a chance to talk to someone. Shawn and his staff did an amazing job at this years show, always coming to see that things were okay, handing out some free Jimmy John's, and just being great hosts. The show is a success because of all that they do. There is no doubt in my mind I will be back again and again.

Me and my glorious shirts. (Photo by Scott Simmons)

The Last Zombie: Inferno #1 – Review

Issue: The Last Zombie: Inferno #1
Writer: Brian Keene
Artists: Joe Wight, Brian Denham, Fred Perry
Publisher: Antarctic Press
Release Date: June 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $3.99

“Continuing AP’s popular new series, The Last Zombie: Inferno picks up where The Last Zombie left off, as Doctor Ian Scott and his team of soldiers and scientists make their way across the wastelands of a post-zombie apocalyptic America. Infected with the virus that caused the zombie outbreak, Ian struggles to stay alive long enough to see his wife again. As if that wasn’t enough, the team find themselves caught between a raging, state-wide wildfire and the radioactive destruction of a nuclear reactor meltdown.”

Dying Breath: 4.0 out of 5
Chapter 2 is under review folks! For anyone who doesn’t know how awesome Chapter 1 was, go back and read it, I will wait… okay good to have you back. This issue is practically a way to recap and bridge the gap from what happened before, moving forward a little and bringing in what is coming next. Of course we are reminded of the big secret, but for the most part this is a great transition to the next arc, so action wise it is a slower issue. The artwork is as good as always. I honestly didn’t believe that 3 people were on art duties because it was so seamless. I am happy to have this book back because of how fresh it is. I love new takes on genre’s that could be considered done, so to get a chance to read this and love it, makes me happy to tell you about it. The Last Zombie is perfect for your horror collection and should be a part of it.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.0 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about The Last Zombie #5 you can find it at http://www.antarctic-press.com

Return to the Planet of the Living Dead #1 – Review

Issue: Return to the Planet of the Living Dead #1
Story & Art: Joe Wight, David Hutchison
Publisher: Antarctic Press
Release Date: Aug 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $3.50

“An investigative landing on a farming planet has brought the crew of a Marine rescue ship face to face with an entire population of flesh-eating zombies. Even if they manage to survive the initial onslaught, their slim hopes of survival are about rot away even faster than the moldering, deadly hordes out to devour their flesh!”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
What you can’t see right now is how excited I am to write this review. I am in love with the Planet of the Living Dead series so far. The artwork is so perfectly done that only a story this good could perfectly compliment it. Following the events of Planet of the Living Dead #1, this book is a fantastic sequel that leads perfectly into the next book that will follow. The dialogue is fun, yet very militaristic, since this one is based on the army getting to the planet. It really is not until the end though until we see the zombies emerge, which is fine by me since they did such a great job building up the suspense. The zombies look great, the story is great and I highly recommend checking this one out, you don’t really need to have read Planet of the Living Dead, but it will help. Antarctic is still killing it on horror titles.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Return to the Planet of the Living Dead #1 you can find it at http://www.antarctic-press.com/

To Fight With Monsters – Review

Issue: To Fight With Monsters
Writers: Brian Keene, Mike Oliveri
Artist: Ben Dunn
Publisher: Antarctic Press
Release Date: June 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $3.99

“Based upon the short story by Mike Oliveri & Brian Keene. When humanity rapidly devolves into a monstrous state, teenager Rick Donovan joins his fellow townspeople in makeshift trenches to defend their homes. However, the monsters may already be among them… New post-apocalyptic horror from Bram Stoker Award-winning horror novelists Mike Oliveri (The Pack, Werewolves: Call of the Wild) and Brian Keene (The Last Zombie, Dead of Night: Devil Slayer) and Godfather of American Manga Ben Dunn (Marvel Mangaverse, Ninja High School, Warrior Nun Areala)!”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
Oh my friends this is one book you should not miss. I want to start with the visuals, Ben Dunn you are sick, because this book looks amazing! From one panel to the next panel I was never let down. Also to the art side I say thank you for not using any grey in this issue, it seemed to add to the edge of the story. Oh the story, this is one you HAVE to read. Did I say should, could or might want to? No, I said HAVE to read. Very seldom are we as horror comic readers presented with what I would say is a real interpretation of how things might go down. It’s not always black and white in terms of good and bad, so for this book to be able to fill in that grey area (you see how I did that with the colors) and not be afraid to show you what could happen is amazing. Keene and Oliveri have won me over on this one, and the title is such on play on what happens. UGH, I just can not seem to stop gushing on how much I enjoyed this book. You HAVE to read this book!

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 5.0 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about To Fight With Monsters
you can find it at http://www.antarctic-press.com

The Littlest Zombie vs. The Littlest Vampire – Review

Issue: The Littlest Zombie vs. The Littlest Vampire
Writer: Fred Perry
Artist: Fred Perry
Publisher: Antarctic Press
Release Date: 2010
Pages: 32
Price: $3.99

“It’s Tom & Jerry meets 28 Days Later as the Littlest Zombie and the Littlest Vampire fight tooth and nail, hand-to-detachable-hand for scant sustenance! Their quarry, the Littlest Survivor, must pull out every trick in the Apocalypse Survivor’s Handbook to keep his two supernatural stalkers at each other’s throats and off his!”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
It is officially time to begin the Littlest Brawl of the century! Ladies and gentlemen I have said time and time again that The Littlest Zombie is a book that should be on your reading list and this one proves why. Fred Perry bring to the dinner table two of the cutest little creatures that in reality you would want nowhere near you. The Vampire girl is hilarious and her dialogue proves why, brilliant job. As usual the must LZ plays a supporting role that is to die for, pun intended. The artwork is one point page after page. The ending with this issue does tell me more should be on the horizon so I can not wait! The LZ line of books are so good, so well done and this one is no exception. If I was reading this review I would have bought it by now. Great art, great writing and tons of fun to be had here.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about The Littlest Zombie vs. The Littlest Vampire you can find it at http://www.antarctic-press.com

Taxidermied: The Art of Roman Dirge – Review

Book: Taxidermied: The Art of Roman Dirge HC
Writer: Roman Dirge
Artist: Roman Dirge
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: September 2011
Pages:  112
Price: $34.95

“A stunning full-color celebration of the eye-catchingly original artwork creator Roman Dirge, the first anthology of his work available anywhere. This lavish hardback includes an introduction and background commentary information on the imagery by Dirge himself, plus previously unpublished artwork, covers and strips, and paintings. The book also includes fold-out pages, displaying Dirge’s work in its full glory, and some brand-new pieces created just for this book!”

Artwork: 5.0 out of 5
I have never reviewed an art book before, so I guess it is only fitting that I start with an artist whose work I love. Now being an art book please note that this book contains tons of GORE-Geous pictures. From the start of page 1 my jaw was slowly opening, by the time I got to page 5 it was on the floor. What I really enjoyed about this collection was that it was not always full-page pieces. At times I was presented with the sketches that led to the final pieces, and that makes the visual experience more fun.

The Book is broken down into 5 sections; sketches, artwork, scarytales, monsters and funny bone. There was not a single one that I did not enjoy looking at. Each section is placed perfectly, because the books builds as it goes on. My favorite might have to be the monster section, but seriously reader, I loved them all.  Being presented with all of the insane things that Roman has concocted over the year is fantastic, and I kinda want to see more turn into comics. I am left wondering one thing though, what is with all the veins and nerves?

Being a graphic designer by trade I have to take a paragraph to go over the layout of this book. One thing that plays into the artwork so well are the typefaces. A nice black-letter font for the titles was a perfect choice to fit the theme and still be easily readable. At times even the page backgrounds have this grunge look to them that enhances the visual tone for the artwork. Even the actual design on the hardcover, minus the slip cover is boo-tiful! Overall this book is so perfect for your eyes that you might cry a little, I know I did.

Story: 4.5 out of 5
Now you should know that there is no real story here since it is an art book, however Dirge is able to still inject his humor into this book. The intro has jokes in it and picture descriptions have jokes in them, so you can’t lose. The ability to add these subtle things enhances the entire experience of the book. It’s like getting your vanilla ice cream topped with sprinkles!

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
I still can’t say that I would buy every art book out there, but I am so happy I got this one. I love what Roman brings to his comics with his story telling being the main focus over the art. When I can get a chance to check out a book that can showcase the opposite I will take it. This is a complete package that I am proud to put on my bookshelf. Visually stunning with a hint of humor, oh Roman we need a steadier stream of your work in out lives.

If you would like to buy or know more about Taxidermied: The Art of Roman Dirge you can find it at http://titanbooks.com/

Monocyte #1 – Review

 

Issue: Monocyte #1
Writers: Menton3, Kasra Ghanbari
Artist: Menton3
Covers: Menton3, Ashley Wood (incentive)
Side Stories: Riley Rossmo (a), David Stoupakis (w/a)
Additional Art: Richard A. Kirk
Publisher: IDW
Release Date: October 19, 2011
Pages: 36
Price: $3.99

“Two warring immortal races rule a scarred world where time has no meaning. Death (Azrael) sits impotent, quietly planning his restoration. He summons Monocyte, a forgotten immortal necromancer who long ago chose sleep in his failed quest to die. With a fatal pact sealed, Monoctye strikes out as Azrael’s vicious proxy.”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
Oh man this is one GORE-Geous issue, and I mean that on all levels. I think it needs to be stated that this is a great read, but a long one. I read the issue twice to make sure I didn’t miss anything and I am sure I still did. The storytelling is very poetic at times telling tales beyond what you would find in a typical comic. There is a lot to digest here, from the history of the cast, the main story line, the back-up stories and so much more. Did I mention this book was only $3.99? The story personally takes me to a dark place, a world I don’t want to be in. The creepy factor is only enhanced when you realize Menton3 is presenting his visuals on top of this story. There were some panels where I was a little lost, but as a whole, I was just gorging my optical cavities on this sweet eye candy. To make the issue even better, when I thought that the story was over I got treated to 2 additional stories by Riley Rossmo and David Stoupakis! I can easily keep going on about how great this issue was and how it lived up to everything I had hoped for it, but it’s time for you to find out for yourself. Enter reading it with an open mind, be ready to explore the unknown and you will be treated to possibly one of the strongest concepts of the year. I seriously can not wait for issue #2.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Monocyte #1 you can find it at http://www.idwpublishing.com

Justice League Dark #1 – Review

Issue: Justice League Dark #1
Writer: Peter Milligan
Artist: Mikel Janin
Publisher: DC Comics
Release Date: 2010
Pages: 32
Price: $2.99

“The witch known as the Enchantress has gone mad, unleashing forces that not even the combined powers of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Cyborg can stop. And if those heroes can’t handle the job, who will stand against this mystical madness? Shade the Changing Man, Madame Xanadu, Deadman, Zatanna and John Constantine may be our only hope!”

Dying Breath: 4.0 out of 5
This is one book I did not want to take a look at. I don’t like the concept of this cast as a team, but it is a new #1 and it is horror so here we go. I was wrong. I should have known better since Milligan was writing it, but I just don’t like Constantine being in the main DCU. The story is one hell of a mystery right out of the gate, but as it moves forward things begin to fall into place. I have to say that I do have a soft spot for seeing some heroes go down. The artwork was good for the most part, but certain panels seemed off to me. The standout scene was when you see this enormous Enchantress looming over a few supers. What worked was the introduction of the characters. Will it work when they become a “team”, I don’t know and that is what I am kinda on the fence about. Overall a good first issue, with plenty of mystery to have me coming back for more.

Artwork: 4.0 out of 5 • Story: 4.0 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Justice League Dark #1 you can find it at http://www.dccomics.com

I, Vampire #1 – Review

Issue: I, Vampire #1
Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov
Artist: Andrea Sorrentino
Publisher: DC Comics
Release Date: Sept. 2011
Pages: 32
Price: $2.99

“For hundreds of years, vampire Andrew Stanton kept mankind safe from the horrors of the supernatural world, thanks to a truce he made with his ex-lover Mary, the Queen of the Damned. But now that truce has reached a bloody end and Andrew must do everything in his power to stop Mary and her dark forces from going on a killing spree!”

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
Alright I have to admit I don’t know anything about the I, Vampire storylines that came before. So I think that leads me to a safe introduction to this book. First thing to talk about is the cover by Frison, just stop my heart now beautiful. However it is totally overshadowed by the interiors. Sorrentino did some of the most GORE-Geous work I have seen this year. Visuals alone would make my buy this book. The story by Fialkov has this back and forth pace and setting that worked so well and the intro to the cast was perfect. This is going to be one very intriguing title, that I have to say is at the top of my list alongside Animal Man. For $2.99 don’t pass on this one, I am really dying right now while I wait for #2 to come out.

Artwork: 5.0 out of 5 • Story: 4.5 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about I, Vampire #1 you can find it at http://www.dccomics.com

Taxidermied: The Art of Roman Dirge – Review

Book: Taxidermied: The Art of Roman Dirge HC
Writer: Roman Dirge
Artist: Roman Dirge
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: September 2011
Pages:  112
Price: $34.95

“A stunning full-color celebration of the eye-catchingly original artwork creator Roman Dirge, the first anthology of his work available anywhere. This lavish hardback includes an introduction and background commentary information on the imagery by Dirge himself, plus previously unpublished artwork, covers and strips, and paintings. The book also includes fold-out pages, displaying Dirge’s work in its full glory, and some brand-new pieces created just for this book!”

Artwork: 5.0 out of 5
I have never reviewed an art book before, so I guess it is only fitting that I start with an artist whose work I love. Now being an art book please note that this book contains tons of GORE-Geous pictures. From the start of page 1 my jaw was slowly opening, by the time I got to page 5 it was on the floor.
What I really enjoyed about this collection was that it was not always full-page pieces. At times I was presented with the sketches that led to the final pieces, and that makes the visual experience more fun.

The Book is broken down into 5 sections; sketches, artwork, scarytales, monsters and funny bone. There was not a single one that I did not enjoy looking at. Each section is placed perfectly, because the books builds as it goes on. My favorite might have to be the monster section, but seriously reader, I loved them all.  Being presented with all of the insane things that Roman has concocted over the year is fantastic, and I kinda want to see more turn into comics. I am left wondering one thing though, what is with all the veins and nerves?

Being a graphic designer by trade I have to take a paragraph to go over the layout of this book. One thing that plays into the artwork so well are the typefaces. A nice black-letter font for the titles was a perfect choice to fit the theme and still be easily readable. At times even the page backgrounds have this grunge look to them that enhances the visual tone for the artwork. Even the actual design on the hardcover, minus the slip cover is boo-tiful! Overall this book is so perfect for your eyes that you might cry a little, I know I did.

Story: 4.5 out of 5
Now you should know that there is no real story here since it is an art book, however Dirge is able to still inject his humor into this book. The intro has jokes in it and picture descriptions have jokes in them, so you can’t lose. The ability to add these subtle things enhances the entire experience of the book. It’s like getting your vanilla ice cream topped with sprinkles!

Dying Breath: 4.5 out of 5
I still can’t say that I would buy every art book out there, but I am so happy I got this one. I love what Roman brings to his comics with his story telling being the main focus over the art. When I can get a chance to check out a book that can showcase the opposite I will take it. This is a complete package that I am proud to put on my bookshelf. Visually stunning with a hint of humor, oh Roman we need a steadier stream of your work in out lives.

If you would like to buy or know more about Taxidermied: The Art of Roman Dirge you can find it at http://titanbooks.com/

Monster Dudes Ashcan – Review

Issue: Monster Dudes Ashcan
Writer: Dave Scheidt
Artist: Matt Fagan
Release Date: 2011
Pages: 12

“Monsters are so sweet, man.”

Dying Breath: 4.0 out of 5
Monsters are sweet Dave and Matt! Oh and they are funny too, and you learn that when you read Monster Dudes. A collection of great little shorts, this book has all the laughs you would expect to find in a book with Dudes in the title. In this teaser Ashcan we get treated 5 stories featuring a Sasquatch, some Vampires and the greatest of them all… Mummies! Scheidt has a fantastic writing style that capture all of these zany happenings almost perfectly, I say almost because I did not get the body building story. The mummy one was of the charts funny though. Fagan’s style is right at home with this title as well. His cartoonish art visually captures what I wanted to find on each page. This book is too much fun for one person, so you need to read it now and then discuss it with me… I’m waiting go get your hands on a copy now! I can not wait for more Monster Dudes!

Artwork: 4.0 out of 5 • Story: 4.0 out of 5

If you would like to buy or know more about Monster Dudes you can find it at http://www.facebook.com/monsterdudes