The Comics Alternative http://comicsalternative.com en Copyright 2012-2019, The Comics Alternative A weekly podcast focusing on the world of alternative, independent, and primarily non-superhero comics. (There's nothing wrong with superhero comics. We just want to do something different.) New podcast episodes become available every Wednesday and include reviews of graphic novels and current ongoing series, discussions of upcoming comics, examinations of collected editions, in-depth analyses of a variety of comics texts, and spotlights on various creators and publishers. The Comics Alternative also produces "special feature" programs, such as shows specifically dedicated to creator interviews, webcomics, on-location events, and special non-weekly themes and topics. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/deca8e9c-f8cf-11ed-8594-d7d3f4f66345/image/ComAltNewLogo-3000.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress The Comics Alternative http://comicsalternative.com no episodic Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A weekly podcast focusing on the world of alternative, independent, and primarily non-superhero comics. (There's nothing wrong with superhero comics. We just want to do something different.) New podcast episodes become available every Wednesday and include reviews of graphic novels and current ongoing series, discussions of upcoming comics, examinations of collected editions, in-depth analyses of a variety of comics texts, and spotlights on various creators and publishers. The Comics Alternative also produces "special feature" programs, such as shows specifically dedicated to creator interviews, webcomics, on-location events, and special non-weekly themes and topics. Derek Royal twoguys@comicsalternative.com Episode 307: A Publisher Spotlight on Glom Press http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-307-a-publisher-spotlight-on-glom-press Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:02:23 -0000 A Publisher Spotlight on Glom Press full 307 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Glomming 6413 no Episode 306: Reviews of Now #5, Criminal #1, and Scratcher #1-3 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-306-reviews-of-now-5-criminal-1-and-scratcher-1-3 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:38 - Now#5 01:02:20 - Criminal #1 01:20:01 - Scratcher #1-3 01:33:04 - Wrap up 01:34:32 - Contact us On this episode of the podcast Sterg and Derek look at three exciting titles. They begin with Now#5, the latest in Fantagraphics' outstanding comics anthology series. As the guys point out, they're dedicated to discussing every issue of Nowthat is released, and this one is chock-full of comicy goodness. Although all of the contributions in this issue are intriguing, some of the most notable that the guys discuss are those by Eroyn Franklin, Walker Tate, DRT, Ana Galvañ, DW, Maggie Umber, and especially Walt Holcombe. And although Derek and Sterg spend the vast majority of their time discussing this anthology -- there's a lot to take in -- they also look at two other titles. One of those is most recent incarnation of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal(Image Comics). In the new series' first issue, the protagonist is one familiar to Criminal enthusiasts, Teeg Lawless. But there are other manifestations of Brubaker and Phillips' world that are imbedded within. After that they look at the first three issues of Scratcher, John Wald and Juan Romera's self-published horror title that takes place at a tattoo parlor. This is actually a work that its writer alerted the guys to, and they're glad that he did. Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Now #5, Criminal #1, and Scratcher #1-3 full 306 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Anthropomorphic food is fun" Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:38 - Now#5 01:02:20 - Criminal #1 01:20:01 - Scratcher #1-3 01:33:04 - Wrap up 01:34:32 - Contact us On this episode of the podcast Sterg and Derek look at three exciting titles. They begin with Now#5, the latest in Fantagraphics' outstanding comics anthology series. As the guys point out, they're dedicated to discussing every issue of Nowthat is released, and this one is chock-full of comicy goodness. Although all of the contributions in this issue are intriguing, some of the most notable that the guys discuss are those by Eroyn Franklin, Walker Tate, DRT, Ana Galvañ, DW, Maggie Umber, and especially Walt Holcombe. And although Derek and Sterg spend the vast majority of their time discussing this anthology -- there's a lot to take in -- they also look at two other titles. One of those is most recent incarnation of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal(Image Comics). In the new series' first issue, the protagonist is one familiar to Criminal enthusiasts, Teeg Lawless. But there are other manifestations of Brubaker and Phillips' world that are imbedded within. After that they look at the first three issues of Scratcher, John Wald and Juan Romera's self-published horror title that takes place at a tattoo parlor. This is actually a work that its writer alerted the guys to, and they're glad that he did. Time Codes:

On this episode of the podcast Sterg and Derek look at three exciting titles. They begin with Now#5, the latest in Fantagraphics' outstanding comics anthology series. As the guys point out, they're dedicated to discussing every issue of Nowthat is released, and this one is chock-full of comicy goodness. Although all of the contributions in this issue are intriguing, some of the most notable that the guys discuss are those by Eroyn Franklin, Walker Tate, DRT, Ana Galvañ, DW, Maggie Umber, and especially Walt Holcombe.

And although Derek and Sterg spend the vast majority of their time discussing this anthology -- there's a lot to take in -- they also look at two other titles. One of those is most recent incarnation of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal(Image Comics). In the new series' first issue, the protagonist is one familiar to Criminal enthusiasts, Teeg Lawless. But there are other manifestations of Brubaker and Phillips' world that are imbedded within. After that they look at the first three issues of Scratcher, John Wald and Juan Romera's self-published horror title that takes place at a tattoo parlor. This is actually a work that its writer alerted the guys to, and they're glad that he did.

]]> 5855 no Episode 305: Reviews of The Unknown Anti-War Comics, Love and Rockets IV #6, and LaGuardia #1 & #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-305-reviews-of-the-unknown-anti-war-comics-love-and-rockets-iv-6-and-laguardia-1-2 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Listener correspondence! 00:09:07 - The Unknown Anti-War Comics 00:53:57 - Love and Rockets IV#6 01:29:53 - LaGuardia #1 & #2 01:55:39 - Wrap up 01:57:53 - Contact us On this episode, Sterg and Derek discuss three recent titles that run the gamut from sci-fi to political to slice-of-life (or what the Two Guys prefer to call  verite dessinée). They begin with the latest collection from Craig Yoe, The Unknown Anti-War Comics(IDW Publications/Yoe Books). This is a volume devoted to classic Charlton Comics stories from the 1950s and 1960s -- most probably written by Joe Gill -- that have a peaceful message to deliver. One of the highlights of this collection is the art of Steve Ditko. After that, the guys jump into the latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics Books). Both Derek and Sterg highlight what they particularly like about this specific issue, but they also speculate on the current career trajectories of Gilbert and Jaime and even on what they see as some of the "excesses" of each brother. Finally, the guys wrap up with a discussion of the first two issues of Nnedi Okorafor and Tana Ford's LaGuardia(Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books). In fact, this is an appropriate title to bookend the episode, along with Charlton anti-war stories. Both Sterg and Derek are intrigued by the premise of this limited series, but at the same time they feel that there's something missing from the first two issues, which is half of the four-issue run. Is the narrative too decompressed? Lacking enough exposition? Regardless, both guys want to read on and see where Okorafor and Tana end with their timely story.   Wed, 09 Jan 2019 14:45:13 -0000 Reviews of The Unknown Anti-War Comics, Love and Rockets IV #6, and LaGuardia #1 & #2 full 305 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Ploptastic! Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Listener correspondence! 00:09:07 - The Unknown Anti-War Comics 00:53:57 - Love and Rockets IV#6 01:29:53 - LaGuardia #1 & #2 01:55:39 - Wrap up 01:57:53 - Contact us On this episode, Sterg and Derek discuss three recent titles that run the gamut from sci-fi to political to slice-of-life (or what the Two Guys prefer to call  verite dessinée). They begin with the latest collection from Craig Yoe, The Unknown Anti-War Comics(IDW Publications/Yoe Books). This is a volume devoted to classic Charlton Comics stories from the 1950s and 1960s -- most probably written by Joe Gill -- that have a peaceful message to deliver. One of the highlights of this collection is the art of Steve Ditko. After that, the guys jump into the latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics Books). Both Derek and Sterg highlight what they particularly like about this specific issue, but they also speculate on the current career trajectories of Gilbert and Jaime and even on what they see as some of the "excesses" of each brother. Finally, the guys wrap up with a discussion of the first two issues of Nnedi Okorafor and Tana Ford's LaGuardia(Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books). In fact, this is an appropriate title to bookend the episode, along with Charlton anti-war stories. Both Sterg and Derek are intrigued by the premise of this limited series, but at the same time they feel that there's something missing from the first two issues, which is half of the four-issue run. Is the narrative too decompressed? Lacking enough exposition? Regardless, both guys want to read on and see where Okorafor and Tana end with their timely story.   Time Codes:

On this episode, Sterg and Derek discuss three recent titles that run the gamut from sci-fi to political to slice-of-life (or what the Two Guys prefer to call  verite dessinée). They begin with the latest collection from Craig Yoe, The Unknown Anti-War Comics(IDW Publications/Yoe Books). This is a volume devoted to classic Charlton Comics stories from the 1950s and 1960s -- most probably written by Joe Gill -- that have a peaceful message to deliver. One of the highlights of this collection is the art of Steve Ditko. After that, the guys jump into the latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics Books). Both Derek and Sterg highlight what they particularly like about this specific issue, but they also speculate on the current career trajectories of Gilbert and Jaime and even on what they see as some of the "excesses" of each brother. Finally, the guys wrap up with a discussion of the first two issues of Nnedi Okorafor and Tana Ford's LaGuardia(Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books). In fact, this is an appropriate title to bookend the episode, along with Charlton anti-war stories. Both Sterg and Derek are intrigued by the premise of this limited series, but at the same time they feel that there's something missing from the first two issues, which is half of the four-issue run. Is the narrative too decompressed? Lacking enough exposition? Regardless, both guys want to read on and see where Okorafor and Tana end with their timely story.

 

]]> 7257 yes Critical Takes: A Conversation with Keith Dallas and Jason Sacks http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/critical-takes-a-conversation-with-keith-dallas-and-jason-sacks Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Setup of interview 00:03:54 - Interview with Keith Dallas and Jason Sacks 01:22:12 - Wrap up 01:22:52 - Contact us On this, the second show in The Comics Alternative's new Critical Takes series, Derek has back on the podcast Keith Dallas, coauthor of the new book, American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1990s. Listeners might remember that he talked with Keith, along with John Wells, back last summer when their Comic Book Implosion was released by TwoMorrows Publishing. In fact, that was the very first Critical Takes episode. This time around, Keith is joined by Jason Sacks, another comics scholar and historian who has worked on other texts within the American Comic Book Chroniclesseries. The two have just released their volume on the 1990s, a curious and tumultuous time in American comics history. As you’ll hear in conversation, Jason and Keith discuss in detail their first-hand experiences during this decade, the process of researching for this project, the various stereotypes that they had to overcome when encapsulating the decade, and what each of them sees as key defining moments for comics during the 1990s. They also talk about the genesis of the American Comic Book Chroniclesseries and what we might expect with future volumes. Mon, 07 Jan 2019 14:16:13 -0000 An Interview with Keith Dallas and Jason Sacks full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times" Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Setup of interview 00:03:54 - Interview with Keith Dallas and Jason Sacks 01:22:12 - Wrap up 01:22:52 - Contact us On this, the second show in The Comics Alternative's new Critical Takes series, Derek has back on the podcast Keith Dallas, coauthor of the new book, American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1990s. Listeners might remember that he talked with Keith, along with John Wells, back last summer when their Comic Book Implosion was released by TwoMorrows Publishing. In fact, that was the very first Critical Takes episode. This time around, Keith is joined by Jason Sacks, another comics scholar and historian who has worked on other texts within the American Comic Book Chroniclesseries. The two have just released their volume on the 1990s, a curious and tumultuous time in American comics history. As you’ll hear in conversation, Jason and Keith discuss in detail their first-hand experiences during this decade, the process of researching for this project, the various stereotypes that they had to overcome when encapsulating the decade, and what each of them sees as key defining moments for comics during the 1990s. They also talk about the genesis of the American Comic Book Chroniclesseries and what we might expect with future volumes. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:20 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:54 - Interview with Keith Dallas and Jason Sacks
  • 01:22:12 - Wrap up
  • 01:22:52 - Contact us

On this, the second show in The Comics Alternative's new Critical Takes series, Derek has back on the podcast Keith Dallas, coauthor of the new book, American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1990s. Listeners might remember that he talked with Keith, along with John Wells, back last summer when their Comic Book Implosion was released by TwoMorrows Publishing. In fact, that was the very first Critical Takes episode. This time around, Keith is joined by Jason Sacks, another comics scholar and historian who has worked on other texts within the American Comic Book Chroniclesseries. The two have just released their volume on the 1990s, a curious and tumultuous time in American comics history. As you’ll hear in conversation, Jason and Keith discuss in detail their first-hand experiences during this decade, the process of researching for this project, the various stereotypes that they had to overcome when encapsulating the decade, and what each of them sees as key defining moments for comics during the 1990s. They also talk about the genesis of the American Comic Book Chroniclesseries and what we might expect with future volumes.

]]> 5148 no Episode 304: The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-304-the-january-previews-catalog It's the first episode of the new year, and for the January Previewsshow the Two Guys decide to try something different: invite a third person to join them in discussing the current Previewscatalog. This week Sterg and Derek are joined by Troy-Jeffrey Allen who works with community outreach at PREVIEWSworld. And given Troy's association with Diamond Distributors and the ins and outs of their monthly catalog, he's able to provide insights and additional commentary that results in an extra special discussion. And as you might expect, the addition of a third conversant makes this episode longer than usual...as if the guys' monthly Previews shows weren't long enough. Among the many publishers and titles that Troy, Sterg, and Derek highlight are: Image Comics - Little Bird#1, Assassin Nation#1, and Black Magick: The First Book of Shadows Dark Horse Comics - Invisible Kingdom#1, Black Hammer '45: From the World of Black Hammer#1, Astro Hustle#1, Bad Luck Chuck #1, Moonshadow: The Definitive Edition, and Emanon Vol. 1: Memories of Emanon DC Comics/Vertigo - Dial H for Hero #1, Second Coming #1, and Detective Comics#1000 IDW Publishing - Impossible, Inc., Enola Holmes: The Case of the Left-Handed Lady, Violette around the World Vol 2: A New World Symphony!, and Highwayman BOOM! Studios - Firefly: Bad Company#1, Ronin Island#1, The Grand Abyss Hotel, Black Badge Vol. 1, and Midas Abrams ComicArts - A Fire Storyand Nobody's Fool: The Life and Times of Schlitzie the Pinhead Abstract Studios -Strangers in Paradise XXV Vol. 2: Hide and Seek AdHouse - The Freak Aftershock Comics - Dark Red #1 and Out of the Blue Vol. 1 Albatross Funnybooks - The Goon#1 Archie Comics - Sabrina the Teenage Witch#1 Avery Hill Publishing - Ismyre Candlewick Press - The Iliad Cave Pictures Publishing - The Blessed Machine#1 Dead Reckoning - The Night Witches Drawn and Quarterly - Clyde Fans Box Set Slipcase Edition, Palimpsest, and Kitaro Vol. 6: Kitaro's Yokai Battles Fantagraphics Books - 3D Sweeties, James Warren, Empire of Monsters: The Man behind Creepy, Vampirella, and Famous Monsters, Is This How You See Me?, and Alienation First Second - The Breakawaysand Kiss Number 8 It's Alive - D-Day: From the Pages of Combat Lion Forge - Stiletto No. 1: Officer Down, Haphaven, and Gang of Fools NBM - The Rolling Stones in Comics Papercutz - The Only Living Boy Omnibusand The Only Living Girl Vol. 1: The Island at the Edge of Infinity Pegasus - Goya: The Terrible Sublime Quirk Books - Giraffes on Horseback Salad Rebellion/2000AD - Fran of the Floods SelfMadeHero - Blossoms in Autumn, Guantanamo Kid: The True Story of Mohammed El-Gharani, and Lomax: Collectors of Folk Songs Silver Sprocket - Magical Beatdown#1 Titan Comics - Life Is Strange Vol. 1 University Press of Mississippi - The Comics of Rutu Modan Vault Comics - Queen of Bad Dreams#1 Dempa Books - Super-Dimensional Love Gun Kodansha Comics - Gleipnir Vol. 1and Love in Focus Vol. 1 A BIG THANKS to Troy-Jeffrey Allen for his contributions to this episode! Be sure to keep up with the good people at PREVIEWSworld, and check out Troy on PREVIEWSworld's weekly YouTube show!     Wed, 02 Jan 2019 17:49:46 -0000 A Discussion of the January Previews Catalog full 304 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A New Year, a New Approach It's the first episode of the new year, and for the January Previewsshow the Two Guys decide to try something different: invite a third person to join them in discussing the current Previewscatalog. This week Sterg and Derek are joined by Troy-Jeffrey Allen who works with community outreach at PREVIEWSworld. And given Troy's association with Diamond Distributors and the ins and outs of their monthly catalog, he's able to provide insights and additional commentary that results in an extra special discussion. And as you might expect, the addition of a third conversant makes this episode longer than usual...as if the guys' monthly Previews shows weren't long enough. Among the many publishers and titles that Troy, Sterg, and Derek highlight are: Image Comics - Little Bird#1, Assassin Nation#1, and Black Magick: The First Book of Shadows Dark Horse Comics - Invisible Kingdom#1, Black Hammer '45: From the World of Black Hammer#1, Astro Hustle#1, Bad Luck Chuck #1, Moonshadow: The Definitive Edition, and Emanon Vol. 1: Memories of Emanon DC Comics/Vertigo - Dial H for Hero #1, Second Coming #1, and Detective Comics#1000 IDW Publishing - Impossible, Inc., Enola Holmes: The Case of the Left-Handed Lady, Violette around the World Vol 2: A New World Symphony!, and Highwayman BOOM! Studios - Firefly: Bad Company#1, Ronin Island#1, The Grand Abyss Hotel, Black Badge Vol. 1, and Midas Abrams ComicArts - A Fire Storyand Nobody's Fool: The Life and Times of Schlitzie the Pinhead Abstract Studios -Strangers in Paradise XXV Vol. 2: Hide and Seek AdHouse - The Freak Aftershock Comics - Dark Red #1 and Out of the Blue Vol. 1 Albatross Funnybooks - The Goon#1 Archie Comics - Sabrina the Teenage Witch#1 Avery Hill Publishing - Ismyre Candlewick Press - The Iliad Cave Pictures Publishing - The Blessed Machine#1 Dead Reckoning - The Night Witches Drawn and Quarterly - Clyde Fans Box Set Slipcase Edition, Palimpsest, and Kitaro Vol. 6: Kitaro's Yokai Battles Fantagraphics Books - 3D Sweeties, James Warren, Empire of Monsters: The Man behind Creepy, Vampirella, and Famous Monsters, Is This How You See Me?, and Alienation First Second - The Breakawaysand Kiss Number 8 It's Alive - D-Day: From the Pages of Combat Lion Forge - Stiletto No. 1: Officer Down, Haphaven, and Gang of Fools NBM - The Rolling Stones in Comics Papercutz - The Only Living Boy Omnibusand The Only Living Girl Vol. 1: The Island at the Edge of Infinity Pegasus - Goya: The Terrible Sublime Quirk Books - Giraffes on Horseback Salad Rebellion/2000AD - Fran of the Floods SelfMadeHero - Blossoms in Autumn, Guantanamo Kid: The True Story of Mohammed El-Gharani, and Lomax: Collectors of Folk Songs Silver Sprocket - Magical Beatdown#1 Titan Comics - Life Is Strange Vol. 1 University Press of Mississippi - The Comics of Rutu Modan Vault Comics - Queen of Bad Dreams#1 Dempa Books - Super-Dimensional Love Gun Kodansha Comics - Gleipnir Vol. 1and Love in Focus Vol. 1 A BIG THANKS to Troy-Jeffrey Allen for his contributions to this episode! Be sure to keep up with the good people at PREVIEWSworld, and check out Troy on PREVIEWSworld's weekly YouTube show!    

It's the first episode of the new year, and for the January Previewsshow the Two Guys decide to try something different: invite a third person to join them in discussing the current Previewscatalog. This week Sterg and Derek are joined by Troy-Jeffrey Allen who works with community outreach at PREVIEWSworld. And given Troy's association with Diamond Distributors and the ins and outs of their monthly catalog, he's able to provide insights and additional commentary that results in an extra special discussion. And as you might expect, the addition of a third conversant makes this episode longer than usual...as if the guys' monthly Previews shows weren't long enough. Among the many publishers and titles that Troy, Sterg, and Derek highlight are:

A BIG THANKS to Troy-Jeffrey Allen for his contributions to this episode!

Be sure to keep up with the good people at PREVIEWSworld, and check out Troy on PREVIEWSworld's weekly YouTube show!

 

 

]]> 10070 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Happy New Yoe with Craig Yoe! http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-happy-new-yoe-with-craig-yoe Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:07:14 - Interview with Craig Yoe 02:16:37 - Wrap up 02:18:05 - Contact us It's a new year, so that must mean that it's time for the annual Happy New Yoe show! On this, The Comics Alternative's very first episode of 2019, Derek talks with Craig Yoe about what he's been up to lately. They spend much of the time talking about the year in review for Yoe Books. And it was a busy one for Craig and his companion/colleague, Clizia Gussoni, who oversaw the publication of such titles as Limbo Lounge, Reefer Madness, We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Lou Cameron’s Unsleeping Dead, Super Patriotic Heroes, The Best of Don Winslow of the Navy, Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True!, and new collections of their Weird Loveand Haunted Horrorcomics. Craig also reveals some of the titles we can look forward to in the new year, such as The Unknown Anti-War Comics, Jungle Girls, Swamp Monsters, Clyde, Life on the Moon, and Matchless Beauties: The Art of Pin-up Matchbook Covers. Along the way, the two discuss Yoe Books' recent efforts to publish original graphic novels -- such as Limbo Loungeand Life on the Moon-- the glories of HeroesCon, the future for Craig's various comic-book series, which books caught the most fire in 2018, and plans for Yoe Books to branch out and cover more popular culture topics in addition to comics and comics history. And of course, there are the laughter and wry humor that Craig always brings to every interview he gives to podcast. And this marks the 11th occasion that Craig has been interviewed on The Comics Alternative!   And Craig is also an artist! Design that Craig Yoe created specifically for The Comics Alternative!   Tue, 01 Jan 2019 18:15:29 -0000 Another Happy New Yoe Interview with Craig Yoe full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Yoe! Yoe! Yoe! Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:07:14 - Interview with Craig Yoe 02:16:37 - Wrap up 02:18:05 - Contact us It's a new year, so that must mean that it's time for the annual Happy New Yoe show! On this, The Comics Alternative's very first episode of 2019, Derek talks with Craig Yoe about what he's been up to lately. They spend much of the time talking about the year in review for Yoe Books. And it was a busy one for Craig and his companion/colleague, Clizia Gussoni, who oversaw the publication of such titles as Limbo Lounge, Reefer Madness, We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Lou Cameron’s Unsleeping Dead, Super Patriotic Heroes, The Best of Don Winslow of the Navy, Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True!, and new collections of their Weird Loveand Haunted Horrorcomics. Craig also reveals some of the titles we can look forward to in the new year, such as The Unknown Anti-War Comics, Jungle Girls, Swamp Monsters, Clyde, Life on the Moon, and Matchless Beauties: The Art of Pin-up Matchbook Covers. Along the way, the two discuss Yoe Books' recent efforts to publish original graphic novels -- such as Limbo Loungeand Life on the Moon-- the glories of HeroesCon, the future for Craig's various comic-book series, which books caught the most fire in 2018, and plans for Yoe Books to branch out and cover more popular culture topics in addition to comics and comics history. And of course, there are the laughter and wry humor that Craig always brings to every interview he gives to podcast. And this marks the 11th occasion that Craig has been interviewed on The Comics Alternative!   And Craig is also an artist! Design that Craig Yoe created specifically for The Comics Alternative!   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:29 - Introduction
  • 00:02:38 - Setup of interview
  • 00:07:14 - Interview with Craig Yoe
  • 02:16:37 - Wrap up
  • 02:18:05 - Contact us

It's a new year, so that must mean that it's time for the annual Happy New Yoe show! On this, The Comics Alternative's very first episode of 2019, Derek talks with Craig Yoe about what he's been up to lately. They spend much of the time talking about the year in review for Yoe Books. And it was a busy one for Craig and his companion/colleague, Clizia Gussoni, who oversaw the publication of such titles as Limbo Lounge, Reefer Madness, We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Lou Cameron’s Unsleeping Dead, Super Patriotic Heroes, The Best of Don Winslow of the Navy, Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True!, and new collections of their Weird Loveand Haunted Horrorcomics. Craig also reveals some of the titles we can look forward to in the new year, such as The Unknown Anti-War Comics, Jungle Girls, Swamp Monsters, Clyde, Life on the Moon, and Matchless Beauties: The Art of Pin-up Matchbook Covers. Along the way, the two discuss Yoe Books' recent efforts to publish original graphic novels -- such as Limbo Loungeand Life on the Moon-- the glories of HeroesCon, the future for Craig's various comic-book series, which books caught the most fire in 2018, and plans for Yoe Books to branch out and cover more popular culture topics in addition to comics and comics history. And of course, there are the laughter and wry humor that Craig always brings to every interview he gives to podcast. And this marks the 11th occasion that Craig has been interviewed on The Comics Alternative!

 

And Craig is also an artist!

Design that Craig Yoe created specifically for The Comics Alternative!

 

]]> 8534 yes Manga: Reviews of Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection and Dementia 21 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-frankenstein-junji-ito-story-collection-and-dementia-21 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Manga plans for the new year 00:08:52 - Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection 00:54:47 - Dementia 21 01:37:25 - Wrap up 01:39:20 - Contact us  On this manga episode, their last of 2018, Shea and Derek look at two recent works of manga that are actually quite similar in a number of ways. They begin with Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection(VIZ Media). This isn't the first time, by far, that the guys have discussed Junji Ito's horror work, and whereas they've been less impressed with some of his more recent translations, they are more enthusiastic about this current collection. The standout story is Ito's adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic romance, which takes up almost half of the text. But the other stories in this collection, specifically the Oshikiri cycle ones, are gripping, as well. After that the Two Guys check out a wild example of manga, Shintaro Kago's Dementia 21 (Fantagraphics). While both Derek and Shea had heard of Kago, until now they really hadn't read any of his works. This book, the first in a two-volume series from the publisher, is a collection of 17 stories that surround the escapades of Yukie Sakai, a young home healthcare aide. Her assignments to a variety of elderly patients all turn out surreal, taking her into mind-blowing adventures that are hilarious as they are nonsensical (and even metafictional, in some cases). Kago's manga has been described as ero guro nansensu, although in this collection there is more nansensu than there is ero guro. (For the latter, listeners are referred to another translated collection of Kago's, Super-Dimensional Love Gun, from Fakku Books.)   Mon, 31 Dec 2018 15:35:12 -0000 Reviews of Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection and Dementia 21 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Cycling Nonsense Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Manga plans for the new year 00:08:52 - Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection 00:54:47 - Dementia 21 01:37:25 - Wrap up 01:39:20 - Contact us  On this manga episode, their last of 2018, Shea and Derek look at two recent works of manga that are actually quite similar in a number of ways. They begin with Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection(VIZ Media). This isn't the first time, by far, that the guys have discussed Junji Ito's horror work, and whereas they've been less impressed with some of his more recent translations, they are more enthusiastic about this current collection. The standout story is Ito's adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic romance, which takes up almost half of the text. But the other stories in this collection, specifically the Oshikiri cycle ones, are gripping, as well. After that the Two Guys check out a wild example of manga, Shintaro Kago's Dementia 21 (Fantagraphics). While both Derek and Shea had heard of Kago, until now they really hadn't read any of his works. This book, the first in a two-volume series from the publisher, is a collection of 17 stories that surround the escapades of Yukie Sakai, a young home healthcare aide. Her assignments to a variety of elderly patients all turn out surreal, taking her into mind-blowing adventures that are hilarious as they are nonsensical (and even metafictional, in some cases). Kago's manga has been described as ero guro nansensu, although in this collection there is more nansensu than there is ero guro. (For the latter, listeners are referred to another translated collection of Kago's, Super-Dimensional Love Gun, from Fakku Books.)   Time Codes:

On this manga episode, their last of 2018, Shea and Derek look at two recent works of manga that are actually quite similar in a number of ways. They begin with Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection(VIZ Media). This isn't the first time, by far, that the guys have discussed Junji Ito's horror work, and whereas they've been less impressed with some of his more recent translations, they are more enthusiastic about this current collection. The standout story is Ito's adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic romance, which takes up almost half of the text. But the other stories in this collection, specifically the Oshikiri cycle ones, are gripping, as well.

After that the Two Guys check out a wild example of manga, Shintaro Kago's Dementia 21 (Fantagraphics). While both Derek and Shea had heard of Kago, until now they really hadn't read any of his works. This book, the first in a two-volume series from the publisher, is a collection of 17 stories that surround the escapades of Yukie Sakai, a young home healthcare aide. Her assignments to a variety of elderly patients all turn out surreal, taking her into mind-blowing adventures that are hilarious as they are nonsensical (and even metafictional, in some cases). Kago's manga has been described as ero guro nansensu, although in this collection there is more nansensu than there is ero guro. (For the latter, listeners are referred to another translated collection of Kago's, Super-Dimensional Love Gun, from Fakku Books.)

 

]]> 6140 no Euro Comics: Reviews of McCay and Bear's Tooth http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-mccray-and-bears-tooth Time Codes: 00:00:24 – Introduction 00:03:11 – Getting caught up! 00:04:05 – McCay 00:34:54 – Bear’s Tooth 01:10:58 – Wrap up 01:12:04 – Contact us For their December Euro Comics show, Pascal and Derek discuss two recent French titles in translation. They begin with Thierry Smolderen and Jean-Philippe Bramanti's McCay (Titan Comics), a surreal narrative surrounding the life of comics legend Windsor McCay. But this work is not a biography. Smolderen takes historical moments in McCay's life and from those weaves a fantastical tale that includes noir intrigue, metafictional elements, and the fourth dimension. After that the guys turn to the three volumes of Yann and Alain Henriet's Bear's Tooth (Cinebook).  Each of the three works -- Max, Hanna, and Werner-- is based on one of the three protagonists in this World War II tale. As Pascal reveals, Yann and Henriet's follow up to this series (not yet translated) continues the storyline, but with strange alternate history twist.     Fri, 28 Dec 2018 13:00:00 -0000 Reviews of McCay and Bear's Tooth full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Rarebit and Nazis Time Codes: 00:00:24 – Introduction 00:03:11 – Getting caught up! 00:04:05 – McCay 00:34:54 – Bear’s Tooth 01:10:58 – Wrap up 01:12:04 – Contact us For their December Euro Comics show, Pascal and Derek discuss two recent French titles in translation. They begin with Thierry Smolderen and Jean-Philippe Bramanti's McCay (Titan Comics), a surreal narrative surrounding the life of comics legend Windsor McCay. But this work is not a biography. Smolderen takes historical moments in McCay's life and from those weaves a fantastical tale that includes noir intrigue, metafictional elements, and the fourth dimension. After that the guys turn to the three volumes of Yann and Alain Henriet's Bear's Tooth (Cinebook).  Each of the three works -- Max, Hanna, and Werner-- is based on one of the three protagonists in this World War II tale. As Pascal reveals, Yann and Henriet's follow up to this series (not yet translated) continues the storyline, but with strange alternate history twist.     Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 – Introduction
  • 00:03:11 – Getting caught up!
  • 00:04:05 – McCay
  • 00:34:54 – Bear’s Tooth
  • 01:10:58 – Wrap up
  • 01:12:04 – Contact us

For their December Euro Comics show, Pascal and Derek discuss two recent French titles in translation. They begin with Thierry Smolderen and Jean-Philippe Bramanti's McCay (Titan Comics), a surreal narrative surrounding the life of comics legend Windsor McCay. But this work is not a biography. Smolderen takes historical moments in McCay's life and from those weaves a fantastical tale that includes noir intrigue, metafictional elements, and the fourth dimension. After that the guys turn to the three volumes of Yann and Alain Henriet's Bear's Tooth (Cinebook).  Each of the three works -- Max, Hanna, and Werner-- is based on one of the three protagonists in this World War II tale. As Pascal reveals, Yann and Henriet's follow up to this series (not yet translated) continues the storyline, but with strange alternate history twist.

 

 

]]> 4509 no Webcomics: Reviews of Snow Daze, Snow by Night, and Overwatch: Reflections http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-snow-daze-snow-by-night-and-overwatch-reflections Time Codes: 00:01:18 – Introduction 00:04:22 – It’s the holiday season! 00:06:25 – Snow Daze 00:29:20 – Snow by Night 00:58:06 – Overwatch: Reflections 01:19:11 – Wrap up 01:21:14 – Contact us On this webcomics episode, the last of 2018, Sean and Derek get into the holiday spirit. They discuss three titles that concern Christmas or the winter season (i.e., has the word "snow" in the title). They begin with Leonardo Faierman and Marcus Kwame Anderson's Snow Daze, a narrative about a group of enterprising teenagers in Queens, NY, who create a business shoveling snow, all the while dealing with the challenges of urban life, especially as it concerns matters of race. After that the guys look at another snow-related webcomic, Snow by Night, written by Eric Menge and with primary art by Julie A. Wright and Brittany Michel. This is a fantasy inspired by French colonial culture in North America, and largely revolves around a manitou, a nature spirit of the wilderness, who quests to find her "heart." Finally, Derek and Sean turn to a quite different webcomic, one created by the Blizzard Entertainment corporation to supplement one of their popular video games. Michael Chu and Miki Montlló's Overwatch: Reflectionsis a Christmas story involving the character Tracer as she attempts to find a last-minute gift and (predictably enough) learns the true meaning of the season. Sun, 23 Dec 2018 02:34:46 -0000 Reviews of Snow Daze, Snow by Night, and Overwatch: Reflections full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Let It Snow Time Codes: 00:01:18 – Introduction 00:04:22 – It’s the holiday season! 00:06:25 – Snow Daze 00:29:20 – Snow by Night 00:58:06 – Overwatch: Reflections 01:19:11 – Wrap up 01:21:14 – Contact us On this webcomics episode, the last of 2018, Sean and Derek get into the holiday spirit. They discuss three titles that concern Christmas or the winter season (i.e., has the word "snow" in the title). They begin with Leonardo Faierman and Marcus Kwame Anderson's Snow Daze, a narrative about a group of enterprising teenagers in Queens, NY, who create a business shoveling snow, all the while dealing with the challenges of urban life, especially as it concerns matters of race. After that the guys look at another snow-related webcomic, Snow by Night, written by Eric Menge and with primary art by Julie A. Wright and Brittany Michel. This is a fantasy inspired by French colonial culture in North America, and largely revolves around a manitou, a nature spirit of the wilderness, who quests to find her "heart." Finally, Derek and Sean turn to a quite different webcomic, one created by the Blizzard Entertainment corporation to supplement one of their popular video games. Michael Chu and Miki Montlló's Overwatch: Reflectionsis a Christmas story involving the character Tracer as she attempts to find a last-minute gift and (predictably enough) learns the true meaning of the season. Time Codes:

On this webcomics episode, the last of 2018, Sean and Derek get into the holiday spirit. They discuss three titles that concern Christmas or the winter season (i.e., has the word "snow" in the title). They begin with Leonardo Faierman and Marcus Kwame Anderson's Snow Daze, a narrative about a group of enterprising teenagers in Queens, NY, who create a business shoveling snow, all the while dealing with the challenges of urban life, especially as it concerns matters of race. After that the guys look at another snow-related webcomic, Snow by Night, written by Eric Menge and with primary art by Julie A. Wright and Brittany Michel. This is a fantasy inspired by French colonial culture in North America, and largely revolves around a manitou, a nature spirit of the wilderness, who quests to find her "heart." Finally, Derek and Sean turn to a quite different webcomic, one created by the Blizzard Entertainment corporation to supplement one of their popular video games. Michael Chu and Miki Montlló's Overwatch: Reflectionsis a Christmas story involving the character Tracer as she attempts to find a last-minute gift and (predictably enough) learns the true meaning of the season.

]]> 5078 no On Location: The December Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-december-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find Mike and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Findin Charlotte, NC, for their December show. It's been a couple of months since their last visit to the shop -- this past fall was difficult for everyone -- but the guys are excited to sit down among customers and talk comics. And this being the end of 2018, they thought they'd discuss the year in review, the highlights, the news, and the notable titles that defined 2018. Among other topics, they cover the unfortunate passing of several comics legends over the past year, including Steve Ditko, Stan Lee, and Marie Severin. (They mistakenly bring up Bernie Wrightson, as well, although he died last year.) They also spend time talking about 2018 being the year that the imprints Black Crownand Berger Booksreally took off, the 1000th issue of Action Comics, the impact of Tom Kingthis year, Grant Morrison's new work on Green Lantern, and the past year in terms of the Marvel cinematic (and Netflix) universe. While Mike is free to share some of his favorite titles from the past twelve months, Derek is a little reticent because he doesn't want to give away what he'll discuss on next week's year-end episode where he and Stergios reveal what each considers their favorites of 2018. Stay turned for that! And remember, The Comics Alternative's on-location series is part of the Queen City Podcast Network. Check out the other great shows that make up this audio community!   Fri, 21 Dec 2018 13:32:28 -0000 The December Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Highlighting 2018 Mike and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Findin Charlotte, NC, for their December show. It's been a couple of months since their last visit to the shop -- this past fall was difficult for everyone -- but the guys are excited to sit down among customers and talk comics. And this being the end of 2018, they thought they'd discuss the year in review, the highlights, the news, and the notable titles that defined 2018. Among other topics, they cover the unfortunate passing of several comics legends over the past year, including Steve Ditko, Stan Lee, and Marie Severin. (They mistakenly bring up Bernie Wrightson, as well, although he died last year.) They also spend time talking about 2018 being the year that the imprints Black Crownand Berger Booksreally took off, the 1000th issue of Action Comics, the impact of Tom Kingthis year, Grant Morrison's new work on Green Lantern, and the past year in terms of the Marvel cinematic (and Netflix) universe. While Mike is free to share some of his favorite titles from the past twelve months, Derek is a little reticent because he doesn't want to give away what he'll discuss on next week's year-end episode where he and Stergios reveal what each considers their favorites of 2018. Stay turned for that! And remember, The Comics Alternative's on-location series is part of the Queen City Podcast Network. Check out the other great shows that make up this audio community!  

Mike and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Findin Charlotte, NC, for their December show. It's been a couple of months since their last visit to the shop -- this past fall was difficult for everyone -- but the guys are excited to sit down among customers and talk comics. And this being the end of 2018, they thought they'd discuss the year in review, the highlights, the news, and the notable titles that defined 2018. Among other topics, they cover the unfortunate passing of several comics legends over the past year, including Steve Ditko, Stan Lee, and Marie Severin. (They mistakenly bring up Bernie Wrightson, as well, although he died last year.) They also spend time talking about 2018 being the year that the imprints Black Crownand Berger Booksreally took off, the 1000th issue of Action Comics, the impact of Tom Kingthis year, Grant Morrison's new work on Green Lantern, and the past year in terms of the Marvel cinematic (and Netflix) universe. While Mike is free to share some of his favorite titles from the past twelve months, Derek is a little reticent because he doesn't want to give away what he'll discuss on next week's year-end episode where he and Stergios reveal what each considers their favorites of 2018. Stay turned for that!

And remember, The Comics Alternative's on-location series is part of the Queen City Podcast Network. Check out the other great shows that make up this audio community!

 

]]> 4890 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Talking Again with Jon Morris http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-talking-again-with-jon-morris Time Codes: 00:01:17 - Introduction 00:02:59 - Setup of interview 00:05:14 - Interview with Jon Morris 01:15:03 - Wrap up 01:17:05 - Contact us Jon Morris is back, once again, on The Comics Alternative, to share his research and sense of humor. His latest book The League of Regrettable Sidekicks (Quirk Books) is the follow up to his previous two works, The League of Regrettable Superheroes and The Legion of Regrettable Supervillains. In the spirit of the previous books, this one is a revealing and good-natured look at some of the strange creations making up comic-book history, figures that may be unknown or  completely forgotten by most enthusiasts. And perhaps for good reason. Also like the earlier works, Jon divides his survey into three temporal categories: the Golden Age, the Silver Age, and the Modern Age. Sterg and Derek have a fun time talking about the weirdness of this collection, their favorite "regrettable" sidekicks and henchmen, and their wonderment at how such figures made it into four colors. They also talk with Jon about his other work and future projects, including his own comics work. See where it all started! Visit Jon's blog, Gone and Forgotten, and get the inside scoop on retro comicdom! And if you're a Columbo fan, check out his sleuthy podcast, Just One More Thing.   Thu, 20 Dec 2018 14:23:10 -0000 Another Interview with Jon Morris full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Getting Your (Side)Kicks Time Codes: 00:01:17 - Introduction 00:02:59 - Setup of interview 00:05:14 - Interview with Jon Morris 01:15:03 - Wrap up 01:17:05 - Contact us Jon Morris is back, once again, on The Comics Alternative, to share his research and sense of humor. His latest book The League of Regrettable Sidekicks (Quirk Books) is the follow up to his previous two works, The League of Regrettable Superheroes and The Legion of Regrettable Supervillains. In the spirit of the previous books, this one is a revealing and good-natured look at some of the strange creations making up comic-book history, figures that may be unknown or  completely forgotten by most enthusiasts. And perhaps for good reason. Also like the earlier works, Jon divides his survey into three temporal categories: the Golden Age, the Silver Age, and the Modern Age. Sterg and Derek have a fun time talking about the weirdness of this collection, their favorite "regrettable" sidekicks and henchmen, and their wonderment at how such figures made it into four colors. They also talk with Jon about his other work and future projects, including his own comics work. See where it all started! Visit Jon's blog, Gone and Forgotten, and get the inside scoop on retro comicdom! And if you're a Columbo fan, check out his sleuthy podcast, Just One More Thing.   Time Codes:

  • 00:01:17 - Introduction
  • 00:02:59 - Setup of interview
  • 00:05:14 - Interview with Jon Morris
  • 01:15:03 - Wrap up
  • 01:17:05 - Contact us

Jon Morris is back, once again, on The Comics Alternative, to share his research and sense of humor. His latest book The League of Regrettable Sidekicks (Quirk Books) is the follow up to his previous two works, The League of Regrettable Superheroes and The Legion of Regrettable Supervillains. In the spirit of the previous books, this one is a revealing and good-natured look at some of the strange creations making up comic-book history, figures that may be unknown or  completely forgotten by most enthusiasts. And perhaps for good reason. Also like the earlier works, Jon divides his survey into three temporal categories: the Golden Age, the Silver Age, and the Modern Age. Sterg and Derek have a fun time talking about the weirdness of this collection, their favorite "regrettable" sidekicks and henchmen, and their wonderment at how such figures made it into four colors. They also talk with Jon about his other work and future projects, including his own comics work.

See where it all started! Visit Jon's blog, Gone and Forgotten, and get the inside scoop on retro comicdom! And if you're a Columbo fan, check out his sleuthy podcast, Just One More Thing.

 

]]> 4809 no Episode 302: A Review of The Best American Comics 2018 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-302-a-review-of-the-best-american-comics-2018 Time Codes: 00:01:23 - Introduction 00:03:26 - Live streaming again...and some context 00:06:25 - The Best American Comics 2018 01:39:33 - Wrap up 01:41:03 - Contact us As they always do, the Two Guys with PhDs use their penultimate show of the year to discuss the current volume of The Best American Comics. this year guest edited by Phoebe Gloeckner. Earlier in the week they released their interview with Bill Kartalopoulos, the series editor, about the 2018 collection, and in that conversation they talked about the process of pulling the anthology together and Bill's experiences working with Gloeckner. But on this episode, Sterg and Derek discuss the actual content of volume. Among other topics, they highlight the "best of" contributions from creators they were already familiar with -- e.g., Gabrielle Bell, Geof Darrow, Guy Delisle, Jaime Hernandez, Jesse Jacobs, Joe Ollman, Gary Panter, Keiler Roberts, and Ariel Schrag -- and also talk excitedly about artists they hadn't yet discovered, including Margot Ferrick, Julia Jacquette, Julian Glander, Chloë Perkis, and Lale Westvind. In all, it's another great of Best American Comics! Go to The Comics Alternative's YouTube channelif you want to see the recording of the guys' live-streaming broadcast of this show! Wed, 19 Dec 2018 13:25:30 -0000 A Review of The Best American Comics 2018 full 302 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talking Best Time Codes: 00:01:23 - Introduction 00:03:26 - Live streaming again...and some context 00:06:25 - The Best American Comics 2018 01:39:33 - Wrap up 01:41:03 - Contact us As they always do, the Two Guys with PhDs use their penultimate show of the year to discuss the current volume of The Best American Comics. this year guest edited by Phoebe Gloeckner. Earlier in the week they released their interview with Bill Kartalopoulos, the series editor, about the 2018 collection, and in that conversation they talked about the process of pulling the anthology together and Bill's experiences working with Gloeckner. But on this episode, Sterg and Derek discuss the actual content of volume. Among other topics, they highlight the "best of" contributions from creators they were already familiar with -- e.g., Gabrielle Bell, Geof Darrow, Guy Delisle, Jaime Hernandez, Jesse Jacobs, Joe Ollman, Gary Panter, Keiler Roberts, and Ariel Schrag -- and also talk excitedly about artists they hadn't yet discovered, including Margot Ferrick, Julia Jacquette, Julian Glander, Chloë Perkis, and Lale Westvind. In all, it's another great of Best American Comics! Go to The Comics Alternative's YouTube channelif you want to see the recording of the guys' live-streaming broadcast of this show! Time Codes:

  • 00:01:23 - Introduction
  • 00:03:26 - Live streaming again...and some context
  • 00:06:25 - The Best American Comics 2018
  • 01:39:33 - Wrap up
  • 01:41:03 - Contact us

As they always do, the Two Guys with PhDs use their penultimate show of the year to discuss the current volume of The Best American Comics. this year guest edited by Phoebe Gloeckner. Earlier in the week they released their interview with Bill Kartalopoulos, the series editor, about the 2018 collection, and in that conversation they talked about the process of pulling the anthology together and Bill's experiences working with Gloeckner. But on this episode, Sterg and Derek discuss the actual content of volume. Among other topics, they highlight the "best of" contributions from creators they were already familiar with -- e.g., Gabrielle Bell, Geof Darrow, Guy Delisle, Jaime Hernandez, Jesse Jacobs, Joe Ollman, Gary Panter, Keiler Roberts, and Ariel Schrag -- and also talk excitedly about artists they hadn't yet discovered, including Margot Ferrick, Julia Jacquette, Julian Glander, Chloë Perkis, and Lale Westvind. In all, it's another great of Best American Comics!

Go to The Comics Alternative's YouTube channelif you want to see the recording of the guys' live-streaming broadcast of this show!

]]> 6353 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back Again with Bill Kartalopoulous http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-again-with-bill-kartalopoulous Time Codes: 00:01:16 - Introduction 00:03:27 - Setup of interview 00:06:18 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos 01:13:04 - Wrap up 01:14:09 - Contact us   As the Two Guys like to do every year, they are back talking again with Bill Kartalopoulos about the latest volume of The Best American Comics (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). This year the guest editor is Phoebe Gloeckner, perhaps best known for The Diary of a Teenage Girl. In fact, one of the topics of conversation with Bill is how different it might be working with vastly different comics creators as guest editors every year. Sterg and Derek also talk with their guest about the process of pulling together each year's volume, the inundation of submissions he receives, strategies for choosing what to include, the (at times) painful process of excluding from the anthology certain comics due to logistical reasons, his relationship with the publisher, and unique directions that perhaps he may want to take the series. There's not much discussion surrounding the content of this year's volume -- that will be the topic of this week's regular review episode -- but Sterg and Derek ask Bill about the process off Best American Comicsand get quite a bit of behind-the-scene answers.  Mon, 17 Dec 2018 12:56:46 -0000 Another Interview with Bill Kartalopoulous full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Opa! Time Codes: 00:01:16 - Introduction 00:03:27 - Setup of interview 00:06:18 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos 01:13:04 - Wrap up 01:14:09 - Contact us   As the Two Guys like to do every year, they are back talking again with Bill Kartalopoulos about the latest volume of The Best American Comics (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). This year the guest editor is Phoebe Gloeckner, perhaps best known for The Diary of a Teenage Girl. In fact, one of the topics of conversation with Bill is how different it might be working with vastly different comics creators as guest editors every year. Sterg and Derek also talk with their guest about the process of pulling together each year's volume, the inundation of submissions he receives, strategies for choosing what to include, the (at times) painful process of excluding from the anthology certain comics due to logistical reasons, his relationship with the publisher, and unique directions that perhaps he may want to take the series. There's not much discussion surrounding the content of this year's volume -- that will be the topic of this week's regular review episode -- but Sterg and Derek ask Bill about the process off Best American Comicsand get quite a bit of behind-the-scene answers.  Time Codes:

  • 00:01:16 - Introduction
  • 00:03:27 - Setup of interview
  • 00:06:18 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos
  • 01:13:04 - Wrap up
  • 01:14:09 - Contact us

 

As the Two Guys like to do every year, they are back talking again with Bill Kartalopoulos about the latest volume of The Best American Comics (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). This year the guest editor is Phoebe Gloeckner, perhaps best known for The Diary of a Teenage Girl. In fact, one of the topics of conversation with Bill is how different it might be working with vastly different comics creators as guest editors every year. Sterg and Derek also talk with their guest about the process of pulling together each year's volume, the inundation of submissions he receives, strategies for choosing what to include, the (at times) painful process of excluding from the anthology certain comics due to logistical reasons, his relationship with the publisher, and unique directions that perhaps he may want to take the series. There's not much discussion surrounding the content of this year's volume -- that will be the topic of this week's regular review episode -- but Sterg and Derek ask Bill about the process off Best American Comicsand get quite a bit of behind-the-scene answers. 

]]> 4671 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Conversation with Tom Hart http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-conversation-with-tom-hart Time Codes: 00:01:21 - Introduction 00:03:12 - Setup of interview 00:04:32 - Interview with Tom Hart 01:32:14 - Wrap up 01:33:38 - Contact us On this interview episode, Sterg and Derek are excited to have Tom Hart back to discuss his new book, The Art of the Graphic Memoir: Tell Your Story, Change Your Life(St. Martin's Griffin). Tom was on the podcast not quite three years agoto discuss his new memoir at the time Rosalie Lightning, but this time he's returned to talk not so much about story content, but about the processof creating a graphic memoir. As he discusses with the Two Guys, Tom's latest book is more instructional or how-to, covering the necessary steps in planning for, organizing, structuring, visualizing, and finalizing a memoir through the comics medium. In addition, he points out that the very project of writing and illustrating one's own life story isn't only about sharing a story with readers, but perhaps just as important, using the very process of creation as a way of revisiting, revisualizing, and even coming to terms with important life moments. Along the way Derek and Sterg talk with Tom about his other instructional texts, such as How to Say Everythingand The Sequential Artists Workshop Guide to Creating Professional Comic Strips, his vast knowledge of the comics memoir genre, his new comic-strip project B. Is Dying, and his experiences teaching at and directing SAW, the Sequential Artists Workshopin Gainesville, FL.   Fri, 14 Dec 2018 21:20:39 -0000 An Interview with Tom Hart full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Life Stories, Life Changes Time Codes: 00:01:21 - Introduction 00:03:12 - Setup of interview 00:04:32 - Interview with Tom Hart 01:32:14 - Wrap up 01:33:38 - Contact us On this interview episode, Sterg and Derek are excited to have Tom Hart back to discuss his new book, The Art of the Graphic Memoir: Tell Your Story, Change Your Life(St. Martin's Griffin). Tom was on the podcast not quite three years agoto discuss his new memoir at the time Rosalie Lightning, but this time he's returned to talk not so much about story content, but about the processof creating a graphic memoir. As he discusses with the Two Guys, Tom's latest book is more instructional or how-to, covering the necessary steps in planning for, organizing, structuring, visualizing, and finalizing a memoir through the comics medium. In addition, he points out that the very project of writing and illustrating one's own life story isn't only about sharing a story with readers, but perhaps just as important, using the very process of creation as a way of revisiting, revisualizing, and even coming to terms with important life moments. Along the way Derek and Sterg talk with Tom about his other instructional texts, such as How to Say Everythingand The Sequential Artists Workshop Guide to Creating Professional Comic Strips, his vast knowledge of the comics memoir genre, his new comic-strip project B. Is Dying, and his experiences teaching at and directing SAW, the Sequential Artists Workshopin Gainesville, FL.   Time Codes:

  • 00:01:21 - Introduction
  • 00:03:12 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:32 - Interview with Tom Hart
  • 01:32:14 - Wrap up
  • 01:33:38 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Sterg and Derek are excited to have Tom Hart back to discuss his new book, The Art of the Graphic Memoir: Tell Your Story, Change Your Life(St. Martin's Griffin). Tom was on the podcast not quite three years agoto discuss his new memoir at the time Rosalie Lightning, but this time he's returned to talk not so much about story content, but about the processof creating a graphic memoir. As he discusses with the Two Guys, Tom's latest book is more instructional or how-to, covering the necessary steps in planning for, organizing, structuring, visualizing, and finalizing a memoir through the comics medium. In addition, he points out that the very project of writing and illustrating one's own life story isn't only about sharing a story with readers, but perhaps just as important, using the very process of creation as a way of revisiting, revisualizing, and even coming to terms with important life moments. Along the way Derek and Sterg talk with Tom about his other instructional texts, such as How to Say Everythingand The Sequential Artists Workshop Guide to Creating Professional Comic Strips, his vast knowledge of the comics memoir genre, his new comic-strip project B. Is Dying, and his experiences teaching at and directing SAW, the Sequential Artists Workshopin Gainesville, FL.

 

]]> 5801 no Episode 301: Reviews of Che: A Revolutionary Life, The Lodger #1 & #2, and Die #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-301-reviews-of-che-a-revolutionary-life-the-lodger-1-2-and-die-1 Time Codes: 00:01:32 - Introduction 00:03:42 - Our first-ever live streaming recording 00:07:13 - Thank you to new Patreon backers! 00:09:33 - Che: A Revolutionary Life 00:47:02 - The Lodger #1 & #2 01:11:39 - Die #1 01:34:22 - Wrap up 01:38:05 - Contact us This is a very special episode of The Comics Alternative, in that it's the guys' very first live recording. That's right, Sterg and Derek decided to record this week's show via Google Hangouts. Yesterday -- Tuesday, December 11 -- they scheduled a live-streaming broadcast, and fans of the show could watch the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics record a show in real time. As Sterg put it on Twitter, "Come for the slow motion train wreck, but stay when it is instead a great talk about some recent comics!" And everything went off just fine. On this episode they began with a discussion of Jon Lee Anderson and José Hernández's Che: A Revolutionary Life (Penguin Press). This is graphic adaptation of Anderson's 1997 biography of Che Guevara, and as the guys discuss, Hernández does an outstanding job of illustrating the broader life story of the famous revolutionary. After that they look at the first two issues of David and Maria Lapham's The Lodger. This is the latest series from IDW's Black Crown imprint, and Derek and Sterg note that it's classic Lapham crime noir. In fact, this storyline could easily fit into the Stray Bulletsseries. Then they wrap up with a look at Kieron GIllen and Stephanie Hans's Die#1(Image Comics). This is a D&D-inspired fantasy narrative, and the guys frame this within the context of similar stories, such as Stephen King's It, the Netflix series Stranger Things, and the first Jumanjimovie. Go to The Comics Alternative's YouTube channelif you want to see the recording of the guys' live-streaming broadcast of this show!   Wed, 12 Dec 2018 15:24:41 -0000 Reviews of Che: A Revolutionary Life, The Lodger #1 & #2, and Die #1 full 301 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Going Live! Time Codes: 00:01:32 - Introduction 00:03:42 - Our first-ever live streaming recording 00:07:13 - Thank you to new Patreon backers! 00:09:33 - Che: A Revolutionary Life 00:47:02 - The Lodger #1 & #2 01:11:39 - Die #1 01:34:22 - Wrap up 01:38:05 - Contact us This is a very special episode of The Comics Alternative, in that it's the guys' very first live recording. That's right, Sterg and Derek decided to record this week's show via Google Hangouts. Yesterday -- Tuesday, December 11 -- they scheduled a live-streaming broadcast, and fans of the show could watch the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics record a show in real time. As Sterg put it on Twitter, "Come for the slow motion train wreck, but stay when it is instead a great talk about some recent comics!" And everything went off just fine. On this episode they began with a discussion of Jon Lee Anderson and José Hernández's Che: A Revolutionary Life (Penguin Press). This is graphic adaptation of Anderson's 1997 biography of Che Guevara, and as the guys discuss, Hernández does an outstanding job of illustrating the broader life story of the famous revolutionary. After that they look at the first two issues of David and Maria Lapham's The Lodger. This is the latest series from IDW's Black Crown imprint, and Derek and Sterg note that it's classic Lapham crime noir. In fact, this storyline could easily fit into the Stray Bulletsseries. Then they wrap up with a look at Kieron GIllen and Stephanie Hans's Die#1(Image Comics). This is a D&D-inspired fantasy narrative, and the guys frame this within the context of similar stories, such as Stephen King's It, the Netflix series Stranger Things, and the first Jumanjimovie. Go to The Comics Alternative's YouTube channelif you want to see the recording of the guys' live-streaming broadcast of this show!   Time Codes:

This is a very special episode of The Comics Alternative, in that it's the guys' very first live recording. That's right, Sterg and Derek decided to record this week's show via Google Hangouts. Yesterday -- Tuesday, December 11 -- they scheduled a live-streaming broadcast, and fans of the show could watch the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics record a show in real time. As Sterg put it on Twitter, "Come for the slow motion train wreck, but stay when it is instead a great talk about some recent comics!" And everything went off just fine.

On this episode they began with a discussion of Jon Lee Anderson and José Hernández's Che: A Revolutionary Life (Penguin Press). This is graphic adaptation of Anderson's 1997 biography of Che Guevara, and as the guys discuss, Hernández does an outstanding job of illustrating the broader life story of the famous revolutionary. After that they look at the first two issues of David and Maria Lapham's The Lodger. This is the latest series from IDW's Black Crown imprint, and Derek and Sterg note that it's classic Lapham crime noir. In fact, this storyline could easily fit into the Stray Bulletsseries. Then they wrap up with a look at Kieron GIllen and Stephanie Hans's Die#1(Image Comics). This is a D&D-inspired fantasy narrative, and the guys frame this within the context of similar stories, such as Stephen King's It, the Netflix series Stranger Things, and the first Jumanjimovie.

Go to The Comics Alternative's YouTube channelif you want to see the recording of the guys' live-streaming broadcast of this show!

 

]]> 6282 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Noah Van Sciver http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-noah-van-sciver Time Codes: 00:01:15 - Introduction 00:03:32 - Setup of interview 00:04:53 - Interview with Noah Van Sciver 01:15:14 - Wrap up 01:16:39 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs are very happy to have back on the podcast Noah Van Sciver. He was first on the show back in March 2015, and a lot of things have changed with him since the guys last talked with Noah (and not just his growing of a mustache). Most significantly, his output has been through the roof! One of the things Sterg and Derek discuss with their guest is the sheer volume of his comics creation. Over the past six months alone he has released four different titles, and from a variety of publishers: Constant Companion (Fantagraphics), Blammo #10(Kilgore Books and comics), One Dirty Tree(Uncivilized Books), and Fante Bukowski 3: A Perfect Failure(Fantagraphics). The guys talk with Noah about his work habits, his penchant for working with different publishers, his ability to juggle different projects at the same time, and his current work and what we can expect from him in the future. And of course, there is a lot of laughter in this episode. Noah is a humorous, and at time quite satirical, writer, yet the humor is often mixed with pathos, as we see not only his autobiographical comics, but most notably in his recent Fante Bukowski. This was a fun interview...and even more fun was had after they turned off the microphones and the guys hung out on Skype to talk about even more matters. Too bad that wasn't captured for the show, but this new interview with Noah Van Sciver is definitely a highlight of Stergios and Derek's year. Tue, 11 Dec 2018 13:48:55 -0000 Another Interview with Noah Van Sciver full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal All Over the Place Time Codes: 00:01:15 - Introduction 00:03:32 - Setup of interview 00:04:53 - Interview with Noah Van Sciver 01:15:14 - Wrap up 01:16:39 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs are very happy to have back on the podcast Noah Van Sciver. He was first on the show back in March 2015, and a lot of things have changed with him since the guys last talked with Noah (and not just his growing of a mustache). Most significantly, his output has been through the roof! One of the things Sterg and Derek discuss with their guest is the sheer volume of his comics creation. Over the past six months alone he has released four different titles, and from a variety of publishers: Constant Companion (Fantagraphics), Blammo #10(Kilgore Books and comics), One Dirty Tree(Uncivilized Books), and Fante Bukowski 3: A Perfect Failure(Fantagraphics). The guys talk with Noah about his work habits, his penchant for working with different publishers, his ability to juggle different projects at the same time, and his current work and what we can expect from him in the future. And of course, there is a lot of laughter in this episode. Noah is a humorous, and at time quite satirical, writer, yet the humor is often mixed with pathos, as we see not only his autobiographical comics, but most notably in his recent Fante Bukowski. This was a fun interview...and even more fun was had after they turned off the microphones and the guys hung out on Skype to talk about even more matters. Too bad that wasn't captured for the show, but this new interview with Noah Van Sciver is definitely a highlight of Stergios and Derek's year. Time Codes:

  • 00:01:15 - Introduction
  • 00:03:32 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:53 - Interview with Noah Van Sciver
  • 01:15:14 - Wrap up
  • 01:16:39 - Contact us

The Two Guys with PhDs are very happy to have back on the podcast Noah Van Sciver. He was first on the show back in March 2015, and a lot of things have changed with him since the guys last talked with Noah (and not just his growing of a mustache). Most significantly, his output has been through the roof! One of the things Sterg and Derek discuss with their guest is the sheer volume of his comics creation. Over the past six months alone he has released four different titles, and from a variety of publishers: Constant Companion (Fantagraphics), Blammo #10(Kilgore Books and comics), One Dirty Tree(Uncivilized Books), and Fante Bukowski 3: A Perfect Failure(Fantagraphics). The guys talk with Noah about his work habits, his penchant for working with different publishers, his ability to juggle different projects at the same time, and his current work and what we can expect from him in the future. And of course, there is a lot of laughter in this episode. Noah is a humorous, and at time quite satirical, writer, yet the humor is often mixed with pathos, as we see not only his autobiographical comics, but most notably in his recent Fante Bukowski. This was a fun interview...and even more fun was had after they turned off the microphones and the guys hung out on Skype to talk about even more matters. Too bad that wasn't captured for the show, but this new interview with Noah Van Sciver is definitely a highlight of Stergios and Derek's year.

]]> 4774 yes Euro Comics: Review of Piero and The First Man http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-review-of-piero-and-the-first-man Time Codes: 00:01:23 - Introduction 00:04:25 - Better late than never 00:05:54 - Piero 00:40:32 - The First Man 01:23:26 - Wrap up 01:24:39 - Contact us Pascal and Derek are back with the latest Euro Comics episode...the very late November show. They begin with Edmond Baudoin's Piero(New York Review Comics). This is a fascinating and moving memoir -- or better yet, a series of remembrances -- from Baudoin and his relationship with his younger brother Pierre, or Piero. While the title and the story itself would lead one to believe that this is the story of Edmond's younger brother, it's actually a narrative that focuses on the author himself. Edmond, or Momon, as he's called in the book, is at the center of this text, and he's explored and defined within the context of his brother and their relationship, especially as it concerns art and illustration. After that, the Two Guys turn to Jacques Ferrandez's adaptation of Albert Camus's The First Man(Pegasus Books). This isn't the first time the guys have discussed Ferrandez's adaptation. In July 2016, Derek and Gene looked at his graphic version of Camus's The Stranger. This book is similarly moving, but in many ways denser and more pensive than the earlier adaptation. The First Manwas the manuscript that Camus was working on at the time of his death, dying in a car accident. The unfinished work, and intended masterpiece, was finally published in the 1990s, but Ferrandez's text doesn't really feel like an uncompleted manuscript. This is quite a prose-heavy book, and philosophical in the way that Camus's essays and fiction were thought-provoking. Derek and Pascal didn't plan this when they chose these two books, but The First Man and Piero have a lot in common: thoughtful, pensive, and narratives scaffolded around memories and the past.   Mon, 10 Dec 2018 14:25:54 -0000 Review of Piero and The First Man full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Remembrances Time Codes: 00:01:23 - Introduction 00:04:25 - Better late than never 00:05:54 - Piero 00:40:32 - The First Man 01:23:26 - Wrap up 01:24:39 - Contact us Pascal and Derek are back with the latest Euro Comics episode...the very late November show. They begin with Edmond Baudoin's Piero(New York Review Comics). This is a fascinating and moving memoir -- or better yet, a series of remembrances -- from Baudoin and his relationship with his younger brother Pierre, or Piero. While the title and the story itself would lead one to believe that this is the story of Edmond's younger brother, it's actually a narrative that focuses on the author himself. Edmond, or Momon, as he's called in the book, is at the center of this text, and he's explored and defined within the context of his brother and their relationship, especially as it concerns art and illustration. After that, the Two Guys turn to Jacques Ferrandez's adaptation of Albert Camus's The First Man(Pegasus Books). This isn't the first time the guys have discussed Ferrandez's adaptation. In July 2016, Derek and Gene looked at his graphic version of Camus's The Stranger. This book is similarly moving, but in many ways denser and more pensive than the earlier adaptation. The First Manwas the manuscript that Camus was working on at the time of his death, dying in a car accident. The unfinished work, and intended masterpiece, was finally published in the 1990s, but Ferrandez's text doesn't really feel like an uncompleted manuscript. This is quite a prose-heavy book, and philosophical in the way that Camus's essays and fiction were thought-provoking. Derek and Pascal didn't plan this when they chose these two books, but The First Man and Piero have a lot in common: thoughtful, pensive, and narratives scaffolded around memories and the past.   Time Codes:

  • 00:01:23 - Introduction
  • 00:04:25 - Better late than never
  • 00:05:54 - Piero
  • 00:40:32 - The First Man
  • 01:23:26 - Wrap up
  • 01:24:39 - Contact us

Pascal and Derek are back with the latest Euro Comics episode...the very late November show. They begin with Edmond Baudoin's Piero(New York Review Comics). This is a fascinating and moving memoir -- or better yet, a series of remembrances -- from Baudoin and his relationship with his younger brother Pierre, or Piero. While the title and the story itself would lead one to believe that this is the story of Edmond's younger brother, it's actually a narrative that focuses on the author himself. Edmond, or Momon, as he's called in the book, is at the center of this text, and he's explored and defined within the context of his brother and their relationship, especially as it concerns art and illustration.

After that, the Two Guys turn to Jacques Ferrandez's adaptation of Albert Camus's The First Man(Pegasus Books). This isn't the first time the guys have discussed Ferrandez's adaptation. In July 2016, Derek and Gene looked at his graphic version of Camus's The Stranger. This book is similarly moving, but in many ways denser and more pensive than the earlier adaptation. The First Manwas the manuscript that Camus was working on at the time of his death, dying in a car accident. The unfinished work, and intended masterpiece, was finally published in the 1990s, but Ferrandez's text doesn't really feel like an uncompleted manuscript. This is quite a prose-heavy book, and philosophical in the way that Camus's essays and fiction were thought-provoking. Derek and Pascal didn't plan this when they chose these two books, but The First Man and Piero have a lot in common: thoughtful, pensive, and narratives scaffolded around memories and the past.

 

]]> 5260 no Manga: Reviews of Sailor Moon Eternal Edition Vols. 1 & 2 and Mob Psycho 100 Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-sailor-moon-eternal-edition-vols-1-2-and-mob-psycho-100-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:01:26 - Introduction 00:03:27 - Late again 00:05:13 - Sailor Moon Eternal Editions, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 00:46:09 - Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 01:14:53 - Wrap up 01:16:01 - Contact us   On this episode of The Comics Alternative/s manga series -- the November show, albeit a little late -- Shea and Derek take a look at two series that give us a varied understanding of the medium. They begin with the first two volume's of Naoko Takeuchi's Sailor Moon Eternal Edition(Kodansha Comics). This is a classic shojo series from the 1990s, and as the guys discuss, it's something that they've heard about for years, but it's not a title that they actually read. Both Derek and Shea are quite surprised with the story, in that it's quite different from what they expected...and in a good way. The guys discuss Takeuchi's visual style, the complex layering of her story elements, and the fantastical tone of the narrative, among other aspects. After that, the Two Guys check out One's Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 (Dark Horse Manga). This is the latest translated manga from the creator of One-Punch Man, which Shea and Derek discussed on the September 2015 show. Both enjoy this new (for English speakers) series, and it stands out from One-Punch Manin that One does both the writing and the art. In fact, they spend a bit of time discussing One's aesthetic, the art's "flatness" and simplicity. Some may not appreciate the style, but both of the guys are taken by not only One's storytelling abilities, but his illustrations, as well. They do mention in one long storyline the narrative seemed to drag, but other than that, it's a title, along with the new editions of Sailor Moon, that the guys heartily recommend. Fri, 07 Dec 2018 20:38:06 -0000 Reviews of Sailor Moon Eternal Edition Vols. 1 & 2 and Mob Psycho 100 Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Manga Style? Time Codes: 00:01:26 - Introduction 00:03:27 - Late again 00:05:13 - Sailor Moon Eternal Editions, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 00:46:09 - Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 01:14:53 - Wrap up 01:16:01 - Contact us   On this episode of The Comics Alternative/s manga series -- the November show, albeit a little late -- Shea and Derek take a look at two series that give us a varied understanding of the medium. They begin with the first two volume's of Naoko Takeuchi's Sailor Moon Eternal Edition(Kodansha Comics). This is a classic shojo series from the 1990s, and as the guys discuss, it's something that they've heard about for years, but it's not a title that they actually read. Both Derek and Shea are quite surprised with the story, in that it's quite different from what they expected...and in a good way. The guys discuss Takeuchi's visual style, the complex layering of her story elements, and the fantastical tone of the narrative, among other aspects. After that, the Two Guys check out One's Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 (Dark Horse Manga). This is the latest translated manga from the creator of One-Punch Man, which Shea and Derek discussed on the September 2015 show. Both enjoy this new (for English speakers) series, and it stands out from One-Punch Manin that One does both the writing and the art. In fact, they spend a bit of time discussing One's aesthetic, the art's "flatness" and simplicity. Some may not appreciate the style, but both of the guys are taken by not only One's storytelling abilities, but his illustrations, as well. They do mention in one long storyline the narrative seemed to drag, but other than that, it's a title, along with the new editions of Sailor Moon, that the guys heartily recommend. Time Codes:

 

On this episode of The Comics Alternative/s manga series -- the November show, albeit a little late -- Shea and Derek take a look at two series that give us a varied understanding of the medium. They begin with the first two volume's of Naoko Takeuchi's Sailor Moon Eternal Edition(Kodansha Comics). This is a classic shojo series from the 1990s, and as the guys discuss, it's something that they've heard about for years, but it's not a title that they actually read. Both Derek and Shea are quite surprised with the story, in that it's quite different from what they expected...and in a good way. The guys discuss Takeuchi's visual style, the complex layering of her story elements, and the fantastical tone of the narrative, among other aspects.

After that, the Two Guys check out One's Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 (Dark Horse Manga). This is the latest translated manga from the creator of One-Punch Man, which Shea and Derek discussed on the September 2015 show. Both enjoy this new (for English speakers) series, and it stands out from One-Punch Manin that One does both the writing and the art. In fact, they spend a bit of time discussing One's aesthetic, the art's "flatness" and simplicity. Some may not appreciate the style, but both of the guys are taken by not only One's storytelling abilities, but his illustrations, as well. They do mention in one long storyline the narrative seemed to drag, but other than that, it's a title, along with the new editions of Sailor Moon, that the guys heartily recommend.

]]> 4741 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Conor Stechschulte http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-conor-stechschulte Time Codes: 00:01:15 - Introduction 00:03:15 - Setup of interview 00:05:06 - Interview with Conor Stechschulte 01:15:57 - Wrap up 01:17:44 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, the Two Guys have the pleasure of talking with Conor Stechschulte. The third volumeof his ongoing series, GenerousBosom (Breakdown Press), was released in the spring, and Sterg and Derek have an enlightening conversation with Conor about this narrative. While in the first two parts the story was flowing in one discernible direction, more or less, it takes a strange and disturbing turn in the third part. The guys talk with their guest about this narrative trajectory and what it may portend. And as they intuit from the latest installment of Generous Bosom, there are more surprises in store. They also talk with Conor about his other comics, The Amateurs (which was reviewed on the podcast in June 2014), his self-published work, his relationship with his UK publisher, and his inclusion in last year's volume of Best American Comics. This interview has been a long time in coming, and the guys make the most of it. Be sure to check out Conor's band, Lilac, and the sounds they make! Thu, 06 Dec 2018 22:08:28 -0000 An Interview with Conor Stechschulte full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Good Kind of Disturbing Time Codes: 00:01:15 - Introduction 00:03:15 - Setup of interview 00:05:06 - Interview with Conor Stechschulte 01:15:57 - Wrap up 01:17:44 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, the Two Guys have the pleasure of talking with Conor Stechschulte. The third volumeof his ongoing series, GenerousBosom (Breakdown Press), was released in the spring, and Sterg and Derek have an enlightening conversation with Conor about this narrative. While in the first two parts the story was flowing in one discernible direction, more or less, it takes a strange and disturbing turn in the third part. The guys talk with their guest about this narrative trajectory and what it may portend. And as they intuit from the latest installment of Generous Bosom, there are more surprises in store. They also talk with Conor about his other comics, The Amateurs (which was reviewed on the podcast in June 2014), his self-published work, his relationship with his UK publisher, and his inclusion in last year's volume of Best American Comics. This interview has been a long time in coming, and the guys make the most of it. Be sure to check out Conor's band, Lilac, and the sounds they make! Time Codes:

  • 00:01:15 - Introduction
  • 00:03:15 - Setup of interview
  • 00:05:06 - Interview with Conor Stechschulte
  • 01:15:57 - Wrap up
  • 01:17:44 - Contact us

On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, the Two Guys have the pleasure of talking with Conor Stechschulte. The third volumeof his ongoing series, GenerousBosom (Breakdown Press), was released in the spring, and Sterg and Derek have an enlightening conversation with Conor about this narrative. While in the first two parts the story was flowing in one discernible direction, more or less, it takes a strange and disturbing turn in the third part. The guys talk with their guest about this narrative trajectory and what it may portend. And as they intuit from the latest installment of Generous Bosom, there are more surprises in store. They also talk with Conor about his other comics, The Amateurs (which was reviewed on the podcast in June 2014), his self-published work, his relationship with his UK publisher, and his inclusion in last year's volume of Best American Comics. This interview has been a long time in coming, and the guys make the most of it.

Be sure to check out Conor's band, Lilac, and the sounds they make!

]]> 4846 no Episode 300: The December Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-300-the-december-previews-catalog It's the first of a new month, and that must mean that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics will be looking at the latest Previews catalog. This is a rather long episode -- going for almost three hours -- so you get your money's worth! But what makes this show extra special is that it's the 300th episode of The Comics Alternative's weekly review show. As Derek points out, there are over twice as many episodes of the podcast that have been released since August 2012, accounting for the many interviews, specials, and the various monthly shows, but with the regularly weekly review shows, they've now reached a notable milestone. For December, Sterg and Derek discuss a variety of  publishers and titles solicited in Previews such as: Image Comics - Sharkey the Bounty Hunter #1, Bully Wars Vol. 1, High Crimes, and Leviathan Dark Horse Comics - The Girl in the Bay#1 and EC Archives: Two-Fisted Tales Vol. 4 DC Comics/Vertigo - Mera: Tidebreaker, Absolute Daytripper, and Promethea: The 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Book One IDW Publishing - Atomic Robo Presents Real Science Adventures: The Nicodemus Job, Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive, The Grave, Diabolical Summer, Springtime in Chernobyl, Life on the Moon, Ditko's Monsters, Punks Not Dead: London Calling#1, Red Panda and Moon Bear, and A Shining Beacon Dynamite Entertainment - Kirby: Genesis Definitive Edition, Nancy Drew: The Case of the Cold Case, and The Boys Omnibus Vol. 1 BOOM! Studios - Hotel Dare Aardvark-Vanaheim - Sim City: A Dave to Kill For#1 Aftershock Comics -Stronghold#1 and Oberon#1 Alternative Comics - Rad Erwank and Conspiracy Dog Arcana Studio - Raygun A Wage Blue World Inc - Love and Lost Cinebook - Bear's Tooth Vol. 3: Werner, Lucky Luke: The Complete Collection Vol. 1, and Trent Vol. 4: The Valley of Fear Drawn and Quarterly - Leaving Richard's Valleyand Credo: The Rose Wilder Lane Story Fantagraphics Books - The Complete Crepax Vol 4: Private Life, Billie the Bee, Eddie Spaghetti, Mr. Fibber, I, Rene Tardi, Prisoner of War at Stalag 118 Vol. 2: My Return Home, The Perineum Technique, and Cult of the Ibis First Second - Bloom, Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos, Maker Comics: Bake Like a Pro, Maker Comics: Fix a Car, PDST, and Secret Coders: The Complete Boxed Set Harper Collins - New Kid Houghton Mifflin Harcourt - Lois Lowry: The Giver Humanoids - Bigby Bearand The Incal: Oversized Deluxe Limited Edition It's Alive - Aztec Ace: The Complete Collection Little Brown Books for Young Readers - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy: A Modern Retelling of Little Women New York Review Comics: Letters to Survivors Nobrow - Darwin: An Exceptional Voyageand Through a Life Oni Press - A Quick and Easy Guide to Queer and Trans Identitiesand Pilu of the Woods Pegasus - The Be-Bop Barbarians Robots and Monkeys - Eric Silver Sprocket - Egg Cream Vol. 1, Emotional Data, and Magical Beatdown Vol. 1 Starburns Industries Press - Trent William Morow - Good Omens VIZ Media - Urusei Yatsura Vol. 1 Dempa Books - Maiden Railways   Wed, 05 Dec 2018 13:47:02 -0000 A Look at the December Previews Catalog full 300 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Celebrate 300! It's the first of a new month, and that must mean that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics will be looking at the latest Previews catalog. This is a rather long episode -- going for almost three hours -- so you get your money's worth! But what makes this show extra special is that it's the 300th episode of The Comics Alternative's weekly review show. As Derek points out, there are over twice as many episodes of the podcast that have been released since August 2012, accounting for the many interviews, specials, and the various monthly shows, but with the regularly weekly review shows, they've now reached a notable milestone. For December, Sterg and Derek discuss a variety of  publishers and titles solicited in Previews such as: Image Comics - Sharkey the Bounty Hunter #1, Bully Wars Vol. 1, High Crimes, and Leviathan Dark Horse Comics - The Girl in the Bay#1 and EC Archives: Two-Fisted Tales Vol. 4 DC Comics/Vertigo - Mera: Tidebreaker, Absolute Daytripper, and Promethea: The 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Book One IDW Publishing - Atomic Robo Presents Real Science Adventures: The Nicodemus Job, Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive, The Grave, Diabolical Summer, Springtime in Chernobyl, Life on the Moon, Ditko's Monsters, Punks Not Dead: London Calling#1, Red Panda and Moon Bear, and A Shining Beacon Dynamite Entertainment - Kirby: Genesis Definitive Edition, Nancy Drew: The Case of the Cold Case, and The Boys Omnibus Vol. 1 BOOM! Studios - Hotel Dare Aardvark-Vanaheim - Sim City: A Dave to Kill For#1 Aftershock Comics -Stronghold#1 and Oberon#1 Alternative Comics - Rad Erwank and Conspiracy Dog Arcana Studio - Raygun A Wage Blue World Inc - Love and Lost Cinebook - Bear's Tooth Vol. 3: Werner, Lucky Luke: The Complete Collection Vol. 1, and Trent Vol. 4: The Valley of Fear Drawn and Quarterly - Leaving Richard's Valleyand Credo: The Rose Wilder Lane Story Fantagraphics Books - The Complete Crepax Vol 4: Private Life, Billie the Bee, Eddie Spaghetti, Mr. Fibber, I, Rene Tardi, Prisoner of War at Stalag 118 Vol. 2: My Return Home, The Perineum Technique, and Cult of the Ibis First Second - Bloom, Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos, Maker Comics: Bake Like a Pro, Maker Comics: Fix a Car, PDST, and Secret Coders: The Complete Boxed Set Harper Collins - New Kid Houghton Mifflin Harcourt - Lois Lowry: The Giver Humanoids - Bigby Bearand The Incal: Oversized Deluxe Limited Edition It's Alive - Aztec Ace: The Complete Collection Little Brown Books for Young Readers - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy: A Modern Retelling of Little Women New York Review Comics: Letters to Survivors Nobrow - Darwin: An Exceptional Voyageand Through a Life Oni Press - A Quick and Easy Guide to Queer and Trans Identitiesand Pilu of the Woods Pegasus - The Be-Bop Barbarians Robots and Monkeys - Eric Silver Sprocket - Egg Cream Vol. 1, Emotional Data, and Magical Beatdown Vol. 1 Starburns Industries Press - Trent William Morow - Good Omens VIZ Media - Urusei Yatsura Vol. 1 Dempa Books - Maiden Railways  

It's the first of a new month, and that must mean that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics will be looking at the latest Previews catalog. This is a rather long episode -- going for almost three hours -- so you get your money's worth! But what makes this show extra special is that it's the 300th episode of The Comics Alternative's weekly review show. As Derek points out, there are over twice as many episodes of the podcast that have been released since August 2012, accounting for the many interviews, specials, and the various monthly shows, but with the regularly weekly review shows, they've now reached a notable milestone. For December, Sterg and Derek discuss a variety of  publishers and titles solicited in Previews such as:

 

]]> 10521 no Webcomics: Reviews of Grass of Parnassus, Lavender Jack, and Take the A Train http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-grass-of-parnassus-lavender-jack-and-take-the-a-train Time Codes: 00:01:22 - Introduction 00:04:08 - Oops, we're late 00:06:08 - Grass of Parnassus 00:36:42 - Lavender Jack 01:04:20 - Take the A Train 01:27:54 - Wrap up 01:29:01 - Contact us On the November webcomics episode -- albeit a little late -- Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics...especially different when it comes their hosting platforms. They begin with Stuart and Kathryn Immonen's Grass of Parnassus. This is a unique science fiction narrative that is relatively new, starting in September this year, with an intriguing storyline (what there is so far) and incredible art. But what is additionally notable about this webcomic is that it's being hosted on Instagram. This is the first time the guys have discussed an Instagram-based webcomic, and Sean and Derek spend a bit of time discussing the pros and cons of this platform. After that they focus on Lavender Jack, a webcomic hosted on Webtoon and written and illustrated by Dan Schkade. It's an engaging crime/intrigue webcomic that reminds the guys of both The Scarlet Pimpernel and Batman. A unique combination! It's the story of a wealthy socialite who dons a costume to cover his identity, and then goes about exposing the hidden crimes of prominent, powerful, and corrupt citizens in the city. This is also a relatively new webcomic, starting in June, and although there are already 24 episodes (as of this recording), there are still a number of mysteries that are yet to be answered. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with an already completed webcomic, M. Deanand Z. Akhmetova's Take the A Train. This is a relatively short narrative, but what makes it stand out -- in addition to the incredible art -- is that each half of the story is hosted on Dean's and Akhmetova's sites, respectively. This is the first time the guys have discussed a webcomic that was a collaborative endeavor in this manner. The webcomic is based on Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's classic song, and both creators focus on young protagonists in the middle of the 20th century who are fascinated with Ellington and his historic relationship with The Savoy in Harlem.   Mon, 03 Dec 2018 13:39:27 -0000 Reviews of Grass of Parnassus, Lavender Jack, and Take the A Train full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Platform Variety! Time Codes: 00:01:22 - Introduction 00:04:08 - Oops, we're late 00:06:08 - Grass of Parnassus 00:36:42 - Lavender Jack 01:04:20 - Take the A Train 01:27:54 - Wrap up 01:29:01 - Contact us On the November webcomics episode -- albeit a little late -- Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics...especially different when it comes their hosting platforms. They begin with Stuart and Kathryn Immonen's Grass of Parnassus. This is a unique science fiction narrative that is relatively new, starting in September this year, with an intriguing storyline (what there is so far) and incredible art. But what is additionally notable about this webcomic is that it's being hosted on Instagram. This is the first time the guys have discussed an Instagram-based webcomic, and Sean and Derek spend a bit of time discussing the pros and cons of this platform. After that they focus on Lavender Jack, a webcomic hosted on Webtoon and written and illustrated by Dan Schkade. It's an engaging crime/intrigue webcomic that reminds the guys of both The Scarlet Pimpernel and Batman. A unique combination! It's the story of a wealthy socialite who dons a costume to cover his identity, and then goes about exposing the hidden crimes of prominent, powerful, and corrupt citizens in the city. This is also a relatively new webcomic, starting in June, and although there are already 24 episodes (as of this recording), there are still a number of mysteries that are yet to be answered. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with an already completed webcomic, M. Deanand Z. Akhmetova's Take the A Train. This is a relatively short narrative, but what makes it stand out -- in addition to the incredible art -- is that each half of the story is hosted on Dean's and Akhmetova's sites, respectively. This is the first time the guys have discussed a webcomic that was a collaborative endeavor in this manner. The webcomic is based on Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's classic song, and both creators focus on young protagonists in the middle of the 20th century who are fascinated with Ellington and his historic relationship with The Savoy in Harlem.   Time Codes:

On the November webcomics episode -- albeit a little late -- Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics...especially different when it comes their hosting platforms. They begin with Stuart and Kathryn Immonen's Grass of Parnassus. This is a unique science fiction narrative that is relatively new, starting in September this year, with an intriguing storyline (what there is so far) and incredible art. But what is additionally notable about this webcomic is that it's being hosted on Instagram. This is the first time the guys have discussed an Instagram-based webcomic, and Sean and Derek spend a bit of time discussing the pros and cons of this platform.

After that they focus on Lavender Jack, a webcomic hosted on Webtoon and written and illustrated by Dan Schkade. It's an engaging crime/intrigue webcomic that reminds the guys of both The Scarlet Pimpernel and Batman. A unique combination! It's the story of a wealthy socialite who dons a costume to cover his identity, and then goes about exposing the hidden crimes of prominent, powerful, and corrupt citizens in the city. This is also a relatively new webcomic, starting in June, and although there are already 24 episodes (as of this recording), there are still a number of mysteries that are yet to be answered.

Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with an already completed webcomic, M. Deanand Z. Akhmetova's Take the A Train. This is a relatively short narrative, but what makes it stand out -- in addition to the incredible art -- is that each half of the story is hosted on Dean's and Akhmetova's sites, respectively. This is the first time the guys have discussed a webcomic that was a collaborative endeavor in this manner. The webcomic is based on Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's classic song, and both creators focus on young protagonists in the middle of the 20th century who are fascinated with Ellington and his historic relationship with The Savoy in Harlem.

 

]]> 5542 no Young Readers: Reviews of The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine and Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-the-brain-the-ultimate-thinking-machine-and-hey-kiddo-how-i-lost-my-mother-found-my-father-and-dealt-with-family-addiction Time Codes: 00:33 - Introduction 02:55 - The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine 17:31 - Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction 37:06 - Wrap up 38:00 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers series, Gwen and Krystal discuss two new releases: Tory Woollcott and Alex Graudins’s The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine, the most recent volume in First Second Books’ Science Comicsseries, geared towards upper elementary and middle grade readers, and Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction, a YA comics memoir, published by Scholastic’s Graphix imprint. To introduce Woollcott and Graudins’ The Brain, Gwen and Krystal talk about non-fiction, informational comics for young readers, bringing up other volumes in the Science Comics series, such as M.K. Reed and Joe Flood’s Dinosaurs, as well as Maris Wicks’ Human Body Theater, and Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes’ Secret Coders. Gwen explains that all of these texts place scientific or mathematical information within a fictional frame, and she summarizes the basic premise of The Brain, which places two sisters, Fahama and Nour, in a setting that is reminiscent of wacky 1960s and 1970s monster films or TV shows like The Munsters. Krystal praises Woollcott and Graundin’s use of a diverse cast, both in terms of the principal characters and of the individuals who appear in illustrations of the way that the brain impacts human functioning. Both Krystal and Gwen detail some of the memorable spreads in the comic and view the text as an excellent story and reference book for young readers. Next, the two PhDs move on to a young adult graphic memoir, Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo, which is already earning critical acclaim and award buzz (it is a National Book Award finalist). Krosoczka is well-known as the author of nearly a dozen picture books and of the Lunch Lady graphic novel series, but Hey, Kiddo is his first YA offering. Gwen recommends Krosoczka’s 2012 TED Talk “How a boy became an artist,” as well as his 2014 TED Talk on the Lunch Ladycomics. Both provide insight into Krosoczka’s childhood influences and artistic choices. Krystal then gives a detailed description of the way Hey, Kiddo mirrors -- and expands upon -- many of the artist-focused coming of age narratives that have been popular in recent decades, including Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home: A Family Tragicomedy (2006) and Özge Samanci’s Dare to Disappoint: Growing Up in Turkey (2015).  Krystal also applauds Krosoczka’s use of line style and color in commenting on memory, and Gwen testifies to the author’s ability to evoke a convincing depiction of 1970s New England. Both reviewers love this text and highly recommend it for teens and adults. The Young Readers series will be on hiatus in December, but Gwen and Krystal will be back in January with a look at some of the YA graphic novel highlights of 2018.     Fri, 30 Nov 2018 13:39:19 -0000 Reviews of The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine and Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Blinded by Science Time Codes: 00:33 - Introduction 02:55 - The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine 17:31 - Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction 37:06 - Wrap up 38:00 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers series, Gwen and Krystal discuss two new releases: Tory Woollcott and Alex Graudins’s The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine, the most recent volume in First Second Books’ Science Comicsseries, geared towards upper elementary and middle grade readers, and Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction, a YA comics memoir, published by Scholastic’s Graphix imprint. To introduce Woollcott and Graudins’ The Brain, Gwen and Krystal talk about non-fiction, informational comics for young readers, bringing up other volumes in the Science Comics series, such as M.K. Reed and Joe Flood’s Dinosaurs, as well as Maris Wicks’ Human Body Theater, and Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes’ Secret Coders. Gwen explains that all of these texts place scientific or mathematical information within a fictional frame, and she summarizes the basic premise of The Brain, which places two sisters, Fahama and Nour, in a setting that is reminiscent of wacky 1960s and 1970s monster films or TV shows like The Munsters. Krystal praises Woollcott and Graundin’s use of a diverse cast, both in terms of the principal characters and of the individuals who appear in illustrations of the way that the brain impacts human functioning. Both Krystal and Gwen detail some of the memorable spreads in the comic and view the text as an excellent story and reference book for young readers. Next, the two PhDs move on to a young adult graphic memoir, Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo, which is already earning critical acclaim and award buzz (it is a National Book Award finalist). Krosoczka is well-known as the author of nearly a dozen picture books and of the Lunch Lady graphic novel series, but Hey, Kiddo is his first YA offering. Gwen recommends Krosoczka’s 2012 TED Talk “How a boy became an artist,” as well as his 2014 TED Talk on the Lunch Ladycomics. Both provide insight into Krosoczka’s childhood influences and artistic choices. Krystal then gives a detailed description of the way Hey, Kiddo mirrors -- and expands upon -- many of the artist-focused coming of age narratives that have been popular in recent decades, including Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home: A Family Tragicomedy (2006) and Özge Samanci’s Dare to Disappoint: Growing Up in Turkey (2015).  Krystal also applauds Krosoczka’s use of line style and color in commenting on memory, and Gwen testifies to the author’s ability to evoke a convincing depiction of 1970s New England. Both reviewers love this text and highly recommend it for teens and adults. The Young Readers series will be on hiatus in December, but Gwen and Krystal will be back in January with a look at some of the YA graphic novel highlights of 2018.     Time Codes:

On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers series, Gwen and Krystal discuss two new releases: Tory Woollcott and Alex Graudins’s The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine, the most recent volume in First Second Books’ Science Comicsseries, geared towards upper elementary and middle grade readers, and Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction, a YA comics memoir, published by Scholastic’s Graphix imprint.

To introduce Woollcott and Graudins’ The Brain, Gwen and Krystal talk about non-fiction, informational comics for young readers, bringing up other volumes in the Science Comics series, such as M.K. Reed and Joe Flood’s Dinosaurs, as well as Maris Wicks’ Human Body Theater, and Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes’ Secret Coders. Gwen explains that all of these texts place scientific or mathematical information within a fictional frame, and she summarizes the basic premise of The Brain, which places two sisters, Fahama and Nour, in a setting that is reminiscent of wacky 1960s and 1970s monster films or TV shows like The Munsters. Krystal praises Woollcott and Graundin’s use of a diverse cast, both in terms of the principal characters and of the individuals who appear in illustrations of the way that the brain impacts human functioning. Both Krystal and Gwen detail some of the memorable spreads in the comic and view the text as an excellent story and reference book for young readers.

Next, the two PhDs move on to a young adult graphic memoir, Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo, which is already earning critical acclaim and award buzz (it is a National Book Award finalist). Krosoczka is well-known as the author of nearly a dozen picture books and of the Lunch Lady graphic novel series, but Hey, Kiddo is his first YA offering. Gwen recommends Krosoczka’s 2012 TED Talk “How a boy became an artist,” as well as his 2014 TED Talk on the Lunch Ladycomics. Both provide insight into Krosoczka’s childhood influences and artistic choices. Krystal then gives a detailed description of the way Hey, Kiddo mirrors -- and expands upon -- many of the artist-focused coming of age narratives that have been popular in recent decades, including Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home: A Family Tragicomedy (2006) and Özge Samanci’s Dare to Disappoint: Growing Up in Turkey (2015).  Krystal also applauds Krosoczka’s use of line style and color in commenting on memory, and Gwen testifies to the author’s ability to evoke a convincing depiction of 1970s New England. Both reviewers love this text and highly recommend it for teens and adults.

The Young Readers series will be on hiatus in December, but Gwen and Krystal will be back in January with a look at some of the YA graphic novel highlights of 2018.

 

 

]]> 2474 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Katriona Chapman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-katriona-chapman Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:14 - Setup of interview 00:03:59 - Interview with Katriona Chapman 01:06:41 - Wrap up 01:07:15 - Contact us Katriona Chapman first came to our attention through her work at Avery Hill Publishing. She works in marketing there, and back in summer of 2015 she introduced Tillie Walden. Tillie’s first book, The End of Summer, had just been released, and Kat worked was instrumental in setting up an interview with the very young artist. But over the subsequent year, we've come to know Kat as more of an artist herself. She had done a lot of illustration work for children’s books, but it was her self-published comic, Katzine, that specifically caught our attention. In fact, we had discussed Katzinein a special episode from last year, where we looked at self-published comics. In one of the later issues of Katzineshe mentions working on her first book, an autobiographical work centered on her travels in Mexico. Last month that book, Follow Me In, was released by Avery Hill. This is a fascinating travelogue about her experiences touring Mexico, it’s diverse regions, its many ruins, and its vibrant cultures. As you’ll hear in this interview, Kat doesn’t only write about her experiences touring in this new book, but she also explores her problematic relationship with her companion as well as her own efforts as an artist. As such, Follow Me Inis much more than a travelogue. It’s an account of a young artist undergoing new experiences and using those to grow as a creator and to define her art.   Thu, 29 Nov 2018 19:42:26 -0000 An Interview with Katriona Chapman full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Travels and Travails Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:14 - Setup of interview 00:03:59 - Interview with Katriona Chapman 01:06:41 - Wrap up 01:07:15 - Contact us Katriona Chapman first came to our attention through her work at Avery Hill Publishing. She works in marketing there, and back in summer of 2015 she introduced Tillie Walden. Tillie’s first book, The End of Summer, had just been released, and Kat worked was instrumental in setting up an interview with the very young artist. But over the subsequent year, we've come to know Kat as more of an artist herself. She had done a lot of illustration work for children’s books, but it was her self-published comic, Katzine, that specifically caught our attention. In fact, we had discussed Katzinein a special episode from last year, where we looked at self-published comics. In one of the later issues of Katzineshe mentions working on her first book, an autobiographical work centered on her travels in Mexico. Last month that book, Follow Me In, was released by Avery Hill. This is a fascinating travelogue about her experiences touring Mexico, it’s diverse regions, its many ruins, and its vibrant cultures. As you’ll hear in this interview, Kat doesn’t only write about her experiences touring in this new book, but she also explores her problematic relationship with her companion as well as her own efforts as an artist. As such, Follow Me Inis much more than a travelogue. It’s an account of a young artist undergoing new experiences and using those to grow as a creator and to define her art.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:14 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:59 - Interview with Katriona Chapman
  • 01:06:41 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:15 - Contact us

Katriona Chapman first came to our attention through her work at Avery Hill Publishing. She works in marketing there, and back in summer of 2015 she introduced Tillie Walden. Tillie’s first book, The End of Summer, had just been released, and Kat worked was instrumental in setting up an interview with the very young artist. But over the subsequent year, we've come to know Kat as more of an artist herself. She had done a lot of illustration work for children’s books, but it was her self-published comic, Katzine, that specifically caught our attention. In fact, we had discussed Katzinein a special episode from last year, where we looked at self-published comics. In one of the later issues of Katzineshe mentions working on her first book, an autobiographical work centered on her travels in Mexico. Last month that book, Follow Me In, was released by Avery Hill. This is a fascinating travelogue about her experiences touring Mexico, it’s diverse regions, its many ruins, and its vibrant cultures. As you’ll hear in this interview, Kat doesn’t only write about her experiences touring in this new book, but she also explores her problematic relationship with her companion as well as her own efforts as an artist. As such, Follow Me Inis much more than a travelogue. It’s an account of a young artist undergoing new experiences and using those to grow as a creator and to define her art.

 

]]> 4206 no Episode 299: Reviews of Recent Comics about The Beatles http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-299-reviews-of-recent-comics-about-the-beatles Time Codes: 00:00:35 - Introduction 00:02:35 - Check out Sterg's blog! 00:04:15 - Lennon: The New York Years 00:30:38 - Yellow Submarine 00:44:19 - The Beatles in Comics 01:10:55 - I Am Young 01:33:01 - Wrap up 01:35:02 - Contact us This is a special episode of The Comics Alternative, in that Sterg and Derek focus only on recent comics about The Beatles. Both of the guys are huge Beatles fans, and you can tell how excited they are in discussing these texts. They begin with David Foenkinos, Corbeyran, and Horne's Lennon: The New York Years(IDW Publishing), adapted from Foenkinos prose work on John Lennon. What makes this book stand out is that it's primarily narrated in the first person through imagined therapy sessions that Lennon undergoes. In this way, the text becomes not only an insight into John Lennon's psyche, but also a broad historical overview of The Beatles as a musical phenomenon. After that they jump into Bill Morrison's recent adaptation of Yellow Submarine(Titan Comics). This is a work that is as colorful and as elaborate as the 1968 animated film, and the guys are impressed by how faithful the book is to the film's plot. The only thing you don't get in Morrison's text is the various musical interludes that you have in the animated film (of course), but even then Morrison does an affective job of implying the music as sort of a silent soundtrack. But all of the surreal visuals, the song references, and the many puns are there. Next, they look at a new book just released through NBM, The Beatles in Comics. This is a collection of short essays and comics written by Michel Mabel and Gaet’s, and with illustrations by a variety of artists. Much like Lennon, this book provides a broad overview of The Beatles, and the chapters cover such topics as their time in Hamburg, Brian Epstein, when they met the queen, their playing Shea Stadium, the Ed Sullivan Show, the genesis of "Yesterday," their decision to stop touring, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, their time in India, Yoko Ono, the Paul Is Dead phenomenon, and the breakup of the band. Finally, they discuss a new book that really isn't about The Beatles, but uses the Fab Four as a significant backdrop. M. Dean's I Am Young(Fantagraphics) is a series of stories about relationships and music, and the main storyline is the one that uses The Beatles. It's the history of a relationship between Miriam and George, two young people who meet at a Beatles concert when the band first hit it big. M. Dean takes us through the course of this relationship, doing so with The Beatles as a nexus, with the two growing older and getting together, and growing apart, as The Beatles themselves mature and evolve. One book that the Sterg and Derek do not discuss, but one they nonetheless highly recommend, is Carol Tyler's Fab4 Mania(Fantagraphics). This work was released earlier this year, and the reason the guys don't include it in their comics about The Beatles coverage is that Gene and Derek interviewed Carol back in July. As such, they spent a lot of time discussing that book, so the guys already focused on that text. Still, it's another recent graphic novel about The Beatles, and it should stand alongside the other works that Sterg and Derek discuss in this episode.   Wed, 28 Nov 2018 13:48:05 -0000 Reviews of Recent Comics about The Beatles full 299 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Number 9, Number 9, Number 9... Time Codes: 00:00:35 - Introduction 00:02:35 - Check out Sterg's blog! 00:04:15 - Lennon: The New York Years 00:30:38 - Yellow Submarine 00:44:19 - The Beatles in Comics 01:10:55 - I Am Young 01:33:01 - Wrap up 01:35:02 - Contact us This is a special episode of The Comics Alternative, in that Sterg and Derek focus only on recent comics about The Beatles. Both of the guys are huge Beatles fans, and you can tell how excited they are in discussing these texts. They begin with David Foenkinos, Corbeyran, and Horne's Lennon: The New York Years(IDW Publishing), adapted from Foenkinos prose work on John Lennon. What makes this book stand out is that it's primarily narrated in the first person through imagined therapy sessions that Lennon undergoes. In this way, the text becomes not only an insight into John Lennon's psyche, but also a broad historical overview of The Beatles as a musical phenomenon. After that they jump into Bill Morrison's recent adaptation of Yellow Submarine(Titan Comics). This is a work that is as colorful and as elaborate as the 1968 animated film, and the guys are impressed by how faithful the book is to the film's plot. The only thing you don't get in Morrison's text is the various musical interludes that you have in the animated film (of course), but even then Morrison does an affective job of implying the music as sort of a silent soundtrack. But all of the surreal visuals, the song references, and the many puns are there. Next, they look at a new book just released through NBM, The Beatles in Comics. This is a collection of short essays and comics written by Michel Mabel and Gaet’s, and with illustrations by a variety of artists. Much like Lennon, this book provides a broad overview of The Beatles, and the chapters cover such topics as their time in Hamburg, Brian Epstein, when they met the queen, their playing Shea Stadium, the Ed Sullivan Show, the genesis of "Yesterday," their decision to stop touring, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, their time in India, Yoko Ono, the Paul Is Dead phenomenon, and the breakup of the band. Finally, they discuss a new book that really isn't about The Beatles, but uses the Fab Four as a significant backdrop. M. Dean's I Am Young(Fantagraphics) is a series of stories about relationships and music, and the main storyline is the one that uses The Beatles. It's the history of a relationship between Miriam and George, two young people who meet at a Beatles concert when the band first hit it big. M. Dean takes us through the course of this relationship, doing so with The Beatles as a nexus, with the two growing older and getting together, and growing apart, as The Beatles themselves mature and evolve. One book that the Sterg and Derek do not discuss, but one they nonetheless highly recommend, is Carol Tyler's Fab4 Mania(Fantagraphics). This work was released earlier this year, and the reason the guys don't include it in their comics about The Beatles coverage is that Gene and Derek interviewed Carol back in July. As such, they spent a lot of time discussing that book, so the guys already focused on that text. Still, it's another recent graphic novel about The Beatles, and it should stand alongside the other works that Sterg and Derek discuss in this episode.   Time Codes:

This is a special episode of The Comics Alternative, in that Sterg and Derek focus only on recent comics about The Beatles. Both of the guys are huge Beatles fans, and you can tell how excited they are in discussing these texts. They begin with David Foenkinos, Corbeyran, and Horne's Lennon: The New York Years(IDW Publishing), adapted from Foenkinos prose work on John Lennon. What makes this book stand out is that it's primarily narrated in the first person through imagined therapy sessions that Lennon undergoes. In this way, the text becomes not only an insight into John Lennon's psyche, but also a broad historical overview of The Beatles as a musical phenomenon.

After that they jump into Bill Morrison's recent adaptation of Yellow Submarine(Titan Comics). This is a work that is as colorful and as elaborate as the 1968 animated film, and the guys are impressed by how faithful the book is to the film's plot. The only thing you don't get in Morrison's text is the various musical interludes that you have in the animated film (of course), but even then Morrison does an affective job of implying the music as sort of a silent soundtrack. But all of the surreal visuals, the song references, and the many puns are there.

Next, they look at a new book just released through NBM, The Beatles in Comics. This is a collection of short essays and comics written by Michel Mabel and Gaet’s, and with illustrations by a variety of artists. Much like Lennon, this book provides a broad overview of The Beatles, and the chapters cover such topics as their time in Hamburg, Brian Epstein, when they met the queen, their playing Shea Stadium, the Ed Sullivan Show, the genesis of "Yesterday," their decision to stop touring, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, their time in India, Yoko Ono, the Paul Is Dead phenomenon, and the breakup of the band.

Finally, they discuss a new book that really isn't about The Beatles, but uses the Fab Four as a significant backdrop. M. Dean's I Am Young(Fantagraphics) is a series of stories about relationships and music, and the main storyline is the one that uses The Beatles. It's the history of a relationship between Miriam and George, two young people who meet at a Beatles concert when the band first hit it big. M. Dean takes us through the course of this relationship, doing so with The Beatles as a nexus, with the two growing older and getting together, and growing apart, as The Beatles themselves mature and evolve.

One book that the Sterg and Derek do not discuss, but one they nonetheless highly recommend, is Carol Tyler's Fab4 Mania(Fantagraphics). This work was released earlier this year, and the reason the guys don't include it in their comics about The Beatles coverage is that Gene and Derek interviewed Carol back in July. As such, they spent a lot of time discussing that book, so the guys already focused on that text. Still, it's another recent graphic novel about The Beatles, and it should stand alongside the other works that Sterg and Derek discuss in this episode.

 

]]> 5897 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Liz Prince http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-liz-prince Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:02 - Setup of interview 00:03:13 - Interview with Liz Prince 01:16:24 - Wrap up 01:18:11 - Contact us On this interview episode, Sterg talks with Liz Prince about her latest books, Look Back and Laugh(Top Shelf Productions) and the colorized Be Your Own Backing Band(Silver Sprocket), as well as several of her past publications. Over the course of the conversation, Sterg talks with Liz about self publishing, writing for certain age-appropriate audiences, the influences of music, her international reach, as well as many of her previous works. Mon, 26 Nov 2018 23:28:50 -0000 An Interview with Liz Prince full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Woods Porn Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:02 - Setup of interview 00:03:13 - Interview with Liz Prince 01:16:24 - Wrap up 01:18:11 - Contact us On this interview episode, Sterg talks with Liz Prince about her latest books, Look Back and Laugh(Top Shelf Productions) and the colorized Be Your Own Backing Band(Silver Sprocket), as well as several of her past publications. Over the course of the conversation, Sterg talks with Liz about self publishing, writing for certain age-appropriate audiences, the influences of music, her international reach, as well as many of her previous works. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:02 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:13 - Interview with Liz Prince
  • 01:16:24 - Wrap up
  • 01:18:11 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Sterg talks with Liz Prince about her latest books, Look Back and Laugh(Top Shelf Productions) and the colorized Be Your Own Backing Band(Silver Sprocket), as well as several of her past publications. Over the course of the conversation, Sterg talks with Liz about self publishing, writing for certain age-appropriate audiences, the influences of music, her international reach, as well as many of her previous works.

]]> 4860 no Episode 298: Our Sixth Annual Thanksgiving Show http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-298-our-sixth-annual-thanksgiving-show Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and Sterg and Derek gather around the ol' podcasting dinner table to share some of the creators, publishers, locales, and and concepts they're thankful for this year . Among the many things they mention are the plentitude of comics today Inio Asano's new series, Dead Dead Deamon's Dededede Destruction Charles Forsman VIZ Media's new Perfect Editions of Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boys The Nib New York Review Comics comics-centric cons TwoMorrows Press Craig Yoe publishers who use Kickstarter to get their seasonal works out Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, The Comics Experience, and other great local comic shops the completion of Jason Lutes's Berlin review copies creators who are kind and warm individuals students who are researching the way people consume and interpret comics So give thanks this year, and read some great comics! Wed, 21 Nov 2018 20:32:00 -0000 Our Sixth Annual Thanksgiving Show full 298 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Gathering Together for Comics Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and Sterg and Derek gather around the ol' podcasting dinner table to share some of the creators, publishers, locales, and and concepts they're thankful for this year . Among the many things they mention are the plentitude of comics today Inio Asano's new series, Dead Dead Deamon's Dededede Destruction Charles Forsman VIZ Media's new Perfect Editions of Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boys The Nib New York Review Comics comics-centric cons TwoMorrows Press Craig Yoe publishers who use Kickstarter to get their seasonal works out Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, The Comics Experience, and other great local comic shops the completion of Jason Lutes's Berlin review copies creators who are kind and warm individuals students who are researching the way people consume and interpret comics So give thanks this year, and read some great comics!

Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and Sterg and Derek gather around the ol' podcasting dinner table to share some of the creators, publishers, locales, and and concepts they're thankful for this year . Among the many things they mention are

  • the plentitude of comics today
  • Inio Asano's new series, Dead Dead Deamon's Dededede Destruction
  • Charles Forsman
  • VIZ Media's new Perfect Editions of Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boys
  • The Nib
  • New York Review Comics
  • comics-centric cons
  • TwoMorrows Press
  • Craig Yoe
  • publishers who use Kickstarter to get their seasonal works out
  • Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, The Comics Experience, and other great local comic shops
  • the completion of Jason Lutes's Berlin
  • review copies
  • creators who are kind and warm individuals
  • students who are researching the way people consume and interpret comics

So give thanks this year, and read some great comics!

]]> 3767 yes Episode 297: Reviews of DC Comics before Superman, My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies, and Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-297-reviews-of-dc-comics-before-superman-my-heroes-have-always-been-junkies-and-umbrella-academy-hotel-oblivion-1 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:45 - Being away 00:04:40 - DC Comics before Superman 00:44:12 - My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies 01:14:21 - Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1 01:29:48 - Wrap up 01:30:43 - Contact us This week Sterg and Derek check out three intriguing, yet very different, titles. They begin with Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson's DC Comics before Superman: Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson's Pulp Comics(Hermes Press). This is a collection of comics written or inspired by the writing of Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson and an overview of the pre-Superman history of the publisher. After that they look at Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies(Image Comics), the latest noir narrative in their Criminal series. And then the guys wrap up with Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1, Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá's return to their Umbrella Academyworld.   Wed, 24 Oct 2018 12:28:26 -0000 Reviews of DC Comics before Superman, My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies, and Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1 full 297 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Heroes, Pre- and Post- Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:45 - Being away 00:04:40 - DC Comics before Superman 00:44:12 - My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies 01:14:21 - Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1 01:29:48 - Wrap up 01:30:43 - Contact us This week Sterg and Derek check out three intriguing, yet very different, titles. They begin with Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson's DC Comics before Superman: Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson's Pulp Comics(Hermes Press). This is a collection of comics written or inspired by the writing of Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson and an overview of the pre-Superman history of the publisher. After that they look at Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies(Image Comics), the latest noir narrative in their Criminal series. And then the guys wrap up with Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1, Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá's return to their Umbrella Academyworld.   Time Codes:

This week Sterg and Derek check out three intriguing, yet very different, titles. They begin with Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson's DC Comics before Superman: Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson's Pulp Comics(Hermes Press). This is a collection of comics written or inspired by the writing of Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson and an overview of the pre-Superman history of the publisher. After that they look at Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's My Heroes Have Always Been Junkies(Image Comics), the latest noir narrative in their Criminal series. And then the guys wrap up with Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion #1, Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá's return to their Umbrella Academyworld.

 

]]> 5695 no Euro Comics: Review of The Arab of the Future, Books 1-3 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-review-of-the-arab-of-the-future-books-1-3 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:02 - Being away in September 00:05:21 - The Arab of the Future, books 1-3 01:26:07 - Wrap up 01:28:05 - Contact us On this episode of the Euro Comics series, Pascal and Derek look at the first three books of Riad Sattouf's series, The Arab of the Future. Each of these volumes is thick in content, giving the guys a lot to discuss. And while they do a bit of close reading in their discussion, much of what Pascal and Derek do is provide larger overviews, focusing on themes, narrative structures, aesthetic choices, and cultural contexts. In fact, Pascal had read each of these books originally in French -- indeed, he is now in the middle of reading the fourth volume that is already available in France -- so he provides some of the context that might escape American readers. Both of the guys are bowled away by this series, and they eagerly await the continuation of this graphic memoir...and other translated works by Sattouf. Tue, 23 Oct 2018 12:16:45 -0000 A Review of The Arab of the Future, Books 1-3 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Between Cultures Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:02 - Being away in September 00:05:21 - The Arab of the Future, books 1-3 01:26:07 - Wrap up 01:28:05 - Contact us On this episode of the Euro Comics series, Pascal and Derek look at the first three books of Riad Sattouf's series, The Arab of the Future. Each of these volumes is thick in content, giving the guys a lot to discuss. And while they do a bit of close reading in their discussion, much of what Pascal and Derek do is provide larger overviews, focusing on themes, narrative structures, aesthetic choices, and cultural contexts. In fact, Pascal had read each of these books originally in French -- indeed, he is now in the middle of reading the fourth volume that is already available in France -- so he provides some of the context that might escape American readers. Both of the guys are bowled away by this series, and they eagerly await the continuation of this graphic memoir...and other translated works by Sattouf. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:03:02 - Being away in September
  • 00:05:21 - The Arab of the Future, books 1-3
  • 01:26:07 - Wrap up
  • 01:28:05 - Contact us

On this episode of the Euro Comics series, Pascal and Derek look at the first three books of Riad Sattouf's series, The Arab of the Future. Each of these volumes is thick in content, giving the guys a lot to discuss. And while they do a bit of close reading in their discussion, much of what Pascal and Derek do is provide larger overviews, focusing on themes, narrative structures, aesthetic choices, and cultural contexts. In fact, Pascal had read each of these books originally in French -- indeed, he is now in the middle of reading the fourth volume that is already available in France -- so he provides some of the context that might escape American readers. Both of the guys are bowled away by this series, and they eagerly await the continuation of this graphic memoir...and other translated works by Sattouf.

]]> 5473 no Webcomics: Reviews of The Zombie Hunters, Kim Reaper, and Nothing Is Forgotten http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-zombie-hunters-kim-reaper-and-nothing-is-forgotten Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:39 - Support Poe and the Mysteriadson Kickstarter! 00:06:21 - The Zombie Hunters 00:33:06 - Kim Reaper 00:54:01 - Nothing Is Forgotten 01:12:30 - Wrap up 01:13:58 - Contact us On this, the Two Guys' annual Halloween webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three horror-related titles, each of which is quite different one from the other. They begin with Jenny Romanchuk's The Zombie Hunters, a story that has been serialized since 2006. This is a post-apocalyptic narrative that centers on a group of zombie hunters who are themselves infected by a virus that could possibly turn them into the undead, should they die a natural death. After that they look at Kim Reaper, a relatively new webcomic created by Sara Graley, and one that could arguably be described as a horror romcom. Finally, they discuss Ryan Andrews's Nothing Is Forgotten, a somewhat short but nonetheless powerful story about a young boy who buries his father the same day he stumbles upon a lair of some ill-defined and mysterious creature.     Mon, 22 Oct 2018 16:38:58 -0000 Reviews of The Zombie Hunters, Kim Reaper, and Nothing Is Forgotten full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Zombies, Reapers, and...Some Sorta Thing Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:39 - Support Poe and the Mysteriadson Kickstarter! 00:06:21 - The Zombie Hunters 00:33:06 - Kim Reaper 00:54:01 - Nothing Is Forgotten 01:12:30 - Wrap up 01:13:58 - Contact us On this, the Two Guys' annual Halloween webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three horror-related titles, each of which is quite different one from the other. They begin with Jenny Romanchuk's The Zombie Hunters, a story that has been serialized since 2006. This is a post-apocalyptic narrative that centers on a group of zombie hunters who are themselves infected by a virus that could possibly turn them into the undead, should they die a natural death. After that they look at Kim Reaper, a relatively new webcomic created by Sara Graley, and one that could arguably be described as a horror romcom. Finally, they discuss Ryan Andrews's Nothing Is Forgotten, a somewhat short but nonetheless powerful story about a young boy who buries his father the same day he stumbles upon a lair of some ill-defined and mysterious creature.     Time Codes:

On this, the Two Guys' annual Halloween webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three horror-related titles, each of which is quite different one from the other. They begin with Jenny Romanchuk's The Zombie Hunters, a story that has been serialized since 2006. This is a post-apocalyptic narrative that centers on a group of zombie hunters who are themselves infected by a virus that could possibly turn them into the undead, should they die a natural death. After that they look at Kim Reaper, a relatively new webcomic created by Sara Graley, and one that could arguably be described as a horror romcom. Finally, they discuss Ryan Andrews's Nothing Is Forgotten, a somewhat short but nonetheless powerful story about a young boy who buries his father the same day he stumbles upon a lair of some ill-defined and mysterious creature.

 

 

]]> 4650 no Young Readers: Reviews of 3x4, The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall, and Sheets http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-3x4-the-creepy-case-files-of-margo-maloo-the-monster-mall-and-sheets Time Codes: 00:30 - Introduction 02:49 - Introducing Krystal, and a Farewell to Paul 07:24 - 3x4 17:44 - The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall 32:40 -Sheets 42:54 - Wrap up 43:42 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers show, Gwen is joined by her new co-host, Dr. Krystal Howard, an assistant professor in the Liberal Studies and English departments at California State University, Northridge. Krystal has been reading, writing about, and teaching children’s and YA comics for a number of years and has a particular interest in gender and comics studies. In 2017, Krystal’s essay “Gothic Excess and the Body in Vera Brosgol’s Anya’s Ghost” appeared in Gwen’s co-edited volume (with Michelle Ann Abate), Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults, and she has another comics-related essay, “Comics Grammar in Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean’s Picture Book Collaborations” that is forthcoming in The Artistry of Neil Gaiman: Finding Light in the Shadows. Regular listeners to the Young Readers show will already know Krystal from her spot as a panelist last summer on a special roundtable that Gwen and Paul Lai hosted on the future of children’s and YA comics. Before they begin discussing the books for this month’s show, Gwen and Krystal mention the wonderful contributions of Paul Lai, who has recently graduated with his doctorate from the School of Education in Language, Literacy, and Culture at the University of California, Berkeley, and who has begun a new position as Director of UC Berkeley’s prestigious BE3 program, which stands for Berkeley Educators for Equity and Excellence. Paul intends to return to the Comics Alternativefamily from time to time as a podcaster, and Gwen and Krystal wish him the very best in his new role. During the main portion of the show, Gwen and Krystal discuss three new releases: Ivan Brunetti’s 3 x 4, published last month by TOON Books and geared towards early elementary readers, and two Halloween-oriented middle grade graphic novels: Drew Weing’s The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall, which is the second in the Margo Maloo series from First Second books, and Brenna Thummler’s debut, Sheets, put out by Lion Forge’s Cubhouse imprint. Both Krystal and Gwen found Brunetti’s 3 x 4 to be a great addition to the plethora of STEM-focused comics that have been published in the last five years, including First Second’s Science Comics series and Mike Holmes and Gene Luen Yang’s Secret Coders. Krystal praises Brunetti for his inclusion of a diverse and eclectic group of young people, and Gwen notes that for the detail-oriented child, every page offers up an opportunity to discover the many ways that the number 12 can be divided into sets! Next, the two PhDs consider Drew Weing’s follow up to his highly successful first volume of the Margo Maloos series: The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall. Gwen appreciates Weing’s decision to continue focusing on the costs of gentrification, while Krystal notes that the inclusion of teenage characters adds a new dimension to the series. Finally, Gwen and Krystal discuss the amazing debut by Brenna Thummler, Sheets (Lion Forge), which takes place in a lake resort town and focuses on the struggles of a young woman who has become the proprietor of her family’s laundromat, all while trying to fit in at middle school. Her interactions with Wendell, the ghost of an eleven-year-old boy, end up making life a lot better for both of them. Krystal points out Thummler’s attention to figural placement and atmospherics, and Gwen suggests that while some of the plot points might seem a little far-fetched, the novel holds together well and deals with class conflict in a manner that is also present in Weing’s Margo Maloo series. In November, Gwen and Krystal will be back with another set of books to review, as well as 2018 best-of-list recommendations for our listener’s winter holiday celebrations.   Fri, 19 Oct 2018 17:00:00 -0000 Reviews of 3x4, The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall, and Sheets full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Boo! Time Codes: 00:30 - Introduction 02:49 - Introducing Krystal, and a Farewell to Paul 07:24 - 3x4 17:44 - The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall 32:40 -Sheets 42:54 - Wrap up 43:42 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers show, Gwen is joined by her new co-host, Dr. Krystal Howard, an assistant professor in the Liberal Studies and English departments at California State University, Northridge. Krystal has been reading, writing about, and teaching children’s and YA comics for a number of years and has a particular interest in gender and comics studies. In 2017, Krystal’s essay “Gothic Excess and the Body in Vera Brosgol’s Anya’s Ghost” appeared in Gwen’s co-edited volume (with Michelle Ann Abate), Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults, and she has another comics-related essay, “Comics Grammar in Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean’s Picture Book Collaborations” that is forthcoming in The Artistry of Neil Gaiman: Finding Light in the Shadows. Regular listeners to the Young Readers show will already know Krystal from her spot as a panelist last summer on a special roundtable that Gwen and Paul Lai hosted on the future of children’s and YA comics. Before they begin discussing the books for this month’s show, Gwen and Krystal mention the wonderful contributions of Paul Lai, who has recently graduated with his doctorate from the School of Education in Language, Literacy, and Culture at the University of California, Berkeley, and who has begun a new position as Director of UC Berkeley’s prestigious BE3 program, which stands for Berkeley Educators for Equity and Excellence. Paul intends to return to the Comics Alternativefamily from time to time as a podcaster, and Gwen and Krystal wish him the very best in his new role. During the main portion of the show, Gwen and Krystal discuss three new releases: Ivan Brunetti’s 3 x 4, published last month by TOON Books and geared towards early elementary readers, and two Halloween-oriented middle grade graphic novels: Drew Weing’s The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall, which is the second in the Margo Maloo series from First Second books, and Brenna Thummler’s debut, Sheets, put out by Lion Forge’s Cubhouse imprint. Both Krystal and Gwen found Brunetti’s 3 x 4 to be a great addition to the plethora of STEM-focused comics that have been published in the last five years, including First Second’s Science Comics series and Mike Holmes and Gene Luen Yang’s Secret Coders. Krystal praises Brunetti for his inclusion of a diverse and eclectic group of young people, and Gwen notes that for the detail-oriented child, every page offers up an opportunity to discover the many ways that the number 12 can be divided into sets! Next, the two PhDs consider Drew Weing’s follow up to his highly successful first volume of the Margo Maloos series: The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall. Gwen appreciates Weing’s decision to continue focusing on the costs of gentrification, while Krystal notes that the inclusion of teenage characters adds a new dimension to the series. Finally, Gwen and Krystal discuss the amazing debut by Brenna Thummler, Sheets (Lion Forge), which takes place in a lake resort town and focuses on the struggles of a young woman who has become the proprietor of her family’s laundromat, all while trying to fit in at middle school. Her interactions with Wendell, the ghost of an eleven-year-old boy, end up making life a lot better for both of them. Krystal points out Thummler’s attention to figural placement and atmospherics, and Gwen suggests that while some of the plot points might seem a little far-fetched, the novel holds together well and deals with class conflict in a manner that is also present in Weing’s Margo Maloo series. In November, Gwen and Krystal will be back with another set of books to review, as well as 2018 best-of-list recommendations for our listener’s winter holiday celebrations.   Time Codes:

On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers show, Gwen is joined by her new co-host, Dr. Krystal Howard, an assistant professor in the Liberal Studies and English departments at California State University, Northridge. Krystal has been reading, writing about, and teaching children’s and YA comics for a number of years and has a particular interest in gender and comics studies. In 2017, Krystal’s essay “Gothic Excess and the Body in Vera Brosgol’s Anya’s Ghost” appeared in Gwen’s co-edited volume (with Michelle Ann Abate), Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults, and she has another comics-related essay, “Comics Grammar in Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean’s Picture Book Collaborations” that is forthcoming in The Artistry of Neil Gaiman: Finding Light in the Shadows. Regular listeners to the Young Readers show will already know Krystal from her spot as a panelist last summer on a special roundtable that Gwen and Paul Lai hosted on the future of children’s and YA comics.

Before they begin discussing the books for this month’s show, Gwen and Krystal mention the wonderful contributions of Paul Lai, who has recently graduated with his doctorate from the School of Education in Language, Literacy, and Culture at the University of California, Berkeley, and who has begun a new position as Director of UC Berkeley’s prestigious BE3 program, which stands for Berkeley Educators for Equity and Excellence. Paul intends to return to the Comics Alternativefamily from time to time as a podcaster, and Gwen and Krystal wish him the very best in his new role.

During the main portion of the show, Gwen and Krystal discuss three new releases: Ivan Brunetti’s 3 x 4, published last month by TOON Books and geared towards early elementary readers, and two Halloween-oriented middle grade graphic novels: Drew Weing’s The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall, which is the second in the Margo Maloo series from First Second books, and Brenna Thummler’s debut, Sheets, put out by Lion Forge’s Cubhouse imprint.

Both Krystal and Gwen found Brunetti’s 3 x 4 to be a great addition to the plethora of STEM-focused comics that have been published in the last five years, including First Second’s Science Comics series and Mike Holmes and Gene Luen Yang’s Secret Coders. Krystal praises Brunetti for his inclusion of a diverse and eclectic group of young people, and Gwen notes that for the detail-oriented child, every page offers up an opportunity to discover the many ways that the number 12 can be divided into sets!

Next, the two PhDs consider Drew Weing’s follow up to his highly successful first volume of the Margo Maloos series: The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall. Gwen appreciates Weing’s decision to continue focusing on the costs of gentrification, while Krystal notes that the inclusion of teenage characters adds a new dimension to the series.

Finally, Gwen and Krystal discuss the amazing debut by Brenna Thummler, Sheets (Lion Forge), which takes place in a lake resort town and focuses on the struggles of a young woman who has become the proprietor of her family’s laundromat, all while trying to fit in at middle school. Her interactions with Wendell, the ghost of an eleven-year-old boy, end up making life a lot better for both of them. Krystal points out Thummler’s attention to figural placement and atmospherics, and Gwen suggests that while some of the plot points might seem a little far-fetched, the novel holds together well and deals with class conflict in a manner that is also present in Weing’s Margo Maloo series.

In November, Gwen and Krystal will be back with another set of books to review, as well as 2018 best-of-list recommendations for our listener’s winter holiday celebrations.

 

]]> 2827 no Episode 296: Reviews of Scratches #2, Now #4, and Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-296-reviews-of-scratches-2-now-4-and-dick-tracy-dead-or-alive-1 Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Getting ready for Halloween 00:06:29 - Scratches #2 00:49:27 - Now #4 01:22:19 - Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive #1 01:36:12 - Wrap up 01:37:27 - Contact us On this episode Sterg and Derek check out two new anthologies, as well as a recent incarnation of Dick Tracy. They begin with Scratches #2, a comics and art anthology curated by Joost Swarte (and distributed in the Americas by Conundrum Press). They actually spend the majority of the episode discussing this collection, which includes mostly European artists. After that they eagerly jump into the latest issue of Eric Reynold's Now. This is Fantagraphics' exciting anthology that began last year. In this issue we see work by, among others, Walt Holcombe, Cynthia Alfonso, Roman Muradov, Tommi Parrish, Theo Ellsworth, Rebecca W. Kirby, and David Alvardo. Finally, they wrap up with Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive#1, the first in a four-issue limited series. Written by Lee and Michael Allred, and with art by Rich Tommaso, this is (to some degree) an updated handling of Dick Tracy in that the legendary detective is fighting crime in the current day. But although temporal setting is contemporary, the issue still has the feel of a classic comic-strip narrative, including big-presence villains, a detective with many tricks up his sleeve, and a storyline that at times seems outrageous...but in a good way. The Two Guys really hope that this Dick Tracy has a long life well after the limited series. Wed, 10 Oct 2018 17:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Scratches #2, Now #4, and Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive #1 full 296 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Anthologies and a Classic Cop Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Getting ready for Halloween 00:06:29 - Scratches #2 00:49:27 - Now #4 01:22:19 - Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive #1 01:36:12 - Wrap up 01:37:27 - Contact us On this episode Sterg and Derek check out two new anthologies, as well as a recent incarnation of Dick Tracy. They begin with Scratches #2, a comics and art anthology curated by Joost Swarte (and distributed in the Americas by Conundrum Press). They actually spend the majority of the episode discussing this collection, which includes mostly European artists. After that they eagerly jump into the latest issue of Eric Reynold's Now. This is Fantagraphics' exciting anthology that began last year. In this issue we see work by, among others, Walt Holcombe, Cynthia Alfonso, Roman Muradov, Tommi Parrish, Theo Ellsworth, Rebecca W. Kirby, and David Alvardo. Finally, they wrap up with Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive#1, the first in a four-issue limited series. Written by Lee and Michael Allred, and with art by Rich Tommaso, this is (to some degree) an updated handling of Dick Tracy in that the legendary detective is fighting crime in the current day. But although temporal setting is contemporary, the issue still has the feel of a classic comic-strip narrative, including big-presence villains, a detective with many tricks up his sleeve, and a storyline that at times seems outrageous...but in a good way. The Two Guys really hope that this Dick Tracy has a long life well after the limited series. Time Codes:

On this episode Sterg and Derek check out two new anthologies, as well as a recent incarnation of Dick Tracy. They begin with Scratches #2, a comics and art anthology curated by Joost Swarte (and distributed in the Americas by Conundrum Press). They actually spend the majority of the episode discussing this collection, which includes mostly European artists. After that they eagerly jump into the latest issue of Eric Reynold's Now. This is Fantagraphics' exciting anthology that began last year. In this issue we see work by, among others, Walt Holcombe, Cynthia Alfonso, Roman Muradov, Tommi Parrish, Theo Ellsworth, Rebecca W. Kirby, and David Alvardo. Finally, they wrap up with Dick Tracy: Dead or Alive#1, the first in a four-issue limited series. Written by Lee and Michael Allred, and with art by Rich Tommaso, this is (to some degree) an updated handling of Dick Tracy in that the legendary detective is fighting crime in the current day. But although temporal setting is contemporary, the issue still has the feel of a classic comic-strip narrative, including big-presence villains, a detective with many tricks up his sleeve, and a storyline that at times seems outrageous...but in a good way. The Two Guys really hope that this Dick Tracy has a long life well after the limited series.

]]> 6022 no Manga: Reviews of Vérité #1 and Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-vrit-1-and-cutie-honey-the-classic-collection Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:35 - September in October 00:04:17 - Vérité #1 00:49:17 - Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection 01:23:32 - Wrap up 01:24:34 - Contact us Shea and Derek are back for their September manga episode. (Yeah, yeah. We know it's the beginning of October, but the guys were a little late getting last month's show recorded.) This time they discuss two intriguing titles, each quite different one from the other. They begin with the inaugural issue of Vérité, a new anthology series out of India featuring classic alternative manga as well as contributions from contemporary Indian artists that have a gekiga feel to them. The guys were glad to see work from Tadao Tsuge, Susumu Katsumata, and Youji Tsuneyama, but they were also taken by fresh Indian voices such as those of Anpu Varkey, Shaunak Samvatsar, Nandita Basu, and Bharath Murthy, Vérité's editor. After that, Shea and Derek discuss Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection, by Go Nagai. This is another one of Seven Seas Entertainment's nice hardbound collections of classic 1970s manga, other titles including Captain Harlockand Devilman. The guys emphasize Cutie Honeyas a representative kind of shonen manga for its time, but they spend most of the time discussing the, at times discomforting, sexual or erotic nature of Go Nagai's creation. What was written for a particular audience back in the 1970s may come across as gratuitous or even offensive to more contemporary readers. But both Derek and Shea point out that, despite the erotic weirdness apparent at times, the story is engaging and worth revisiting. Tue, 09 Oct 2018 13:48:48 -0000 Reviews of Vérité #1 and Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Little T&A Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:35 - September in October 00:04:17 - Vérité #1 00:49:17 - Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection 01:23:32 - Wrap up 01:24:34 - Contact us Shea and Derek are back for their September manga episode. (Yeah, yeah. We know it's the beginning of October, but the guys were a little late getting last month's show recorded.) This time they discuss two intriguing titles, each quite different one from the other. They begin with the inaugural issue of Vérité, a new anthology series out of India featuring classic alternative manga as well as contributions from contemporary Indian artists that have a gekiga feel to them. The guys were glad to see work from Tadao Tsuge, Susumu Katsumata, and Youji Tsuneyama, but they were also taken by fresh Indian voices such as those of Anpu Varkey, Shaunak Samvatsar, Nandita Basu, and Bharath Murthy, Vérité's editor. After that, Shea and Derek discuss Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection, by Go Nagai. This is another one of Seven Seas Entertainment's nice hardbound collections of classic 1970s manga, other titles including Captain Harlockand Devilman. The guys emphasize Cutie Honeyas a representative kind of shonen manga for its time, but they spend most of the time discussing the, at times discomforting, sexual or erotic nature of Go Nagai's creation. What was written for a particular audience back in the 1970s may come across as gratuitous or even offensive to more contemporary readers. But both Derek and Shea point out that, despite the erotic weirdness apparent at times, the story is engaging and worth revisiting. Time Codes:

Shea and Derek are back for their September manga episode. (Yeah, yeah. We know it's the beginning of October, but the guys were a little late getting last month's show recorded.) This time they discuss two intriguing titles, each quite different one from the other. They begin with the inaugural issue of Vérité, a new anthology series out of India featuring classic alternative manga as well as contributions from contemporary Indian artists that have a gekiga feel to them. The guys were glad to see work from Tadao Tsuge, Susumu Katsumata, and Youji Tsuneyama, but they were also taken by fresh Indian voices such as those of Anpu Varkey, Shaunak Samvatsar, Nandita Basu, and Bharath Murthy, Vérité's editor. After that, Shea and Derek discuss Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection, by Go Nagai. This is another one of Seven Seas Entertainment's nice hardbound collections of classic 1970s manga, other titles including Captain Harlockand Devilman. The guys emphasize Cutie Honeyas a representative kind of shonen manga for its time, but they spend most of the time discussing the, at times discomforting, sexual or erotic nature of Go Nagai's creation. What was written for a particular audience back in the 1970s may come across as gratuitous or even offensive to more contemporary readers. But both Derek and Shea point out that, despite the erotic weirdness apparent at times, the story is engaging and worth revisiting.

]]> 5297 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Howard Shapiro http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-howard-shapiro Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:03:58 - Interview with Howard Shapiro 01:06:33 - Wrap up 01:07:06 - Contact us A common theme in Howard Shapiro’s stories is the significance of music. His first graphic novel, The Sterotypical Freaks, revolved around competing high school bands and how that competition and their dedication to the music defined each member’s life. In his latest book, Queen of Kenosha (Animal Media Group), music once again takes center narrative state. It’s the story of young singer-songwriter from Wisconsin, Nina Overstreet, who comes to New York City in the early 1960s to make it on the folk scene. What she unexpectedly finds is espionage and ideological conspiracy. Whereas in his earlier Forever Friends series of graphic novels Howard wedded music to hockey as the backdrop for his stories, here in Queen of Kenosha -- the first book in what he’s calling The Thin Thinline Trilogy -- he uses music within the context of geopolitical intrigue. In this conversation, Derek talks with Howard about the impetus behind his latest project, the importance of music to his storytelling, the kind of research he conducted to set the historical stage, and his plans for following up on his songwriting protagonist. Howard was on the podcast a couple of years agowhen Hockey Karmawas released, and it was nice to touch base with him again and discuss his subsequent work. Fri, 05 Oct 2018 12:34:36 -0000 An Interview with Howard Shapiro full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Nazis in the Bathroom Just below the Stairs Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:03:58 - Interview with Howard Shapiro 01:06:33 - Wrap up 01:07:06 - Contact us A common theme in Howard Shapiro’s stories is the significance of music. His first graphic novel, The Sterotypical Freaks, revolved around competing high school bands and how that competition and their dedication to the music defined each member’s life. In his latest book, Queen of Kenosha (Animal Media Group), music once again takes center narrative state. It’s the story of young singer-songwriter from Wisconsin, Nina Overstreet, who comes to New York City in the early 1960s to make it on the folk scene. What she unexpectedly finds is espionage and ideological conspiracy. Whereas in his earlier Forever Friends series of graphic novels Howard wedded music to hockey as the backdrop for his stories, here in Queen of Kenosha -- the first book in what he’s calling The Thin Thinline Trilogy -- he uses music within the context of geopolitical intrigue. In this conversation, Derek talks with Howard about the impetus behind his latest project, the importance of music to his storytelling, the kind of research he conducted to set the historical stage, and his plans for following up on his songwriting protagonist. Howard was on the podcast a couple of years agowhen Hockey Karmawas released, and it was nice to touch base with him again and discuss his subsequent work. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:22 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:58 - Interview with Howard Shapiro
  • 01:06:33 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:06 - Contact us

A common theme in Howard Shapiro’s stories is the significance of music. His first graphic novel, The Sterotypical Freaks, revolved around competing high school bands and how that competition and their dedication to the music defined each member’s life. In his latest book, Queen of Kenosha (Animal Media Group), music once again takes center narrative state. It’s the story of young singer-songwriter from Wisconsin, Nina Overstreet, who comes to New York City in the early 1960s to make it on the folk scene. What she unexpectedly finds is espionage and ideological conspiracy. Whereas in his earlier Forever Friends series of graphic novels Howard wedded music to hockey as the backdrop for his stories, here in Queen of Kenosha -- the first book in what he’s calling The Thin Thinline Trilogy -- he uses music within the context of geopolitical intrigue. In this conversation, Derek talks with Howard about the impetus behind his latest project, the importance of music to his storytelling, the kind of research he conducted to set the historical stage, and his plans for following up on his songwriting protagonist. Howard was on the podcast a couple of years agowhen Hockey Karmawas released, and it was nice to touch base with him again and discuss his subsequent work.

]]> 4197 no Episode 295: The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-295-the-october-previews-catalog It's the first of the month, so it's time to look at the latest Previews catalog! What's more, this is Sterg's very first Previewsshow, and Derek honors this occasion with much fanfare. As listeners have come to expect from the monthly Previews shows, this episode goes long. In fact, it goes extra long, and in many ways this becomes a trial by fire for Sterg as a new cohost. But he rises to the occasion, providing solid and tireless recommendations of upcoming titles. For October, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss a variety of  publishers and titles such as: Image Comics - Die #1, Prodigy#1, Hardcore#1, and Street Angel Pentathlon Dark Horse Comics - LaGuardia#1, Black Hammer: Cthu-Louise#1, Mind MGMT Omnibus, Vol. 1, War Bears, EC Archives: Piracy, and Berserk: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - Goddess Mode #1, and Detective Comics before Batman IDW Publishing - Rocketeer Reborn#1, Belzebubs, and Ye Dynamite Entertainment - Mars Attacks#3 BOOM! Studios - Klaus and the Crying Snowman#1, The Great Wiz and the Ruckus, Waves, Wizard Beach#1, and Feathers Albatross Funnybooks - Mega Ghost#1 Black Mask Studios: Emmie-X: All Systems Go#1 Chapterhouse Publishing - Die Kitty Die!: Heaven and Hell#3 Devils Due/1First Comics - Love Town#1 Drawn and Quarterly - This Woman's Work, Cave-In, and Worn Tuff Elbow#2 Fantagraphics Books - Memorabilia, Ink and Anguish: A Jay Lynch Anthology, The Sea, Vanishing Act, Now#5, and In Christ There Is No East or West Feral House - Hi Jax and Hi Jinx: Life's a Pitch, and Then You Live Forever First Second - Science Comics: Polar Bears Lion Forge - Infinity 8, Vol. 3#2 Oni Press - The Long Con, Vol. 1, Long Road to Liquor City, and Guerrillas: Omnibus Edition Papercutz/Super Genius - Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars Omnibus Silver Sprocket - Nothing Nice to Say Sourcebooks - Illegal Starburns Industries Press - Fantasmagoria Holiday Special 2018 Titan Comics - Breakneck#1, Tyler Cross: Angola, and The Night Vanguard Productions - The Wally Wood Christmas Book VIZ Media - We Never Learn, Vol. 1, Abara: Complete Deluxe Edition, and 20th Century Boys: The Perfect Edition, Vol. 2 Yen Press - Mirai Dempa Books - An Invitation from a Crab Kodansha Comics - Quintessential Quintuplets, Vol. 1 Seven Seas Entertainment - I Want to Eat Your Pancreas, Vol. 1 Vertical Comics - Pop Team Epic, Second Season     Wed, 03 Oct 2018 16:31:18 -0000 The October Previews Catalog full 295 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Going Long It's the first of the month, so it's time to look at the latest Previews catalog! What's more, this is Sterg's very first Previewsshow, and Derek honors this occasion with much fanfare. As listeners have come to expect from the monthly Previews shows, this episode goes long. In fact, it goes extra long, and in many ways this becomes a trial by fire for Sterg as a new cohost. But he rises to the occasion, providing solid and tireless recommendations of upcoming titles. For October, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss a variety of  publishers and titles such as: Image Comics - Die #1, Prodigy#1, Hardcore#1, and Street Angel Pentathlon Dark Horse Comics - LaGuardia#1, Black Hammer: Cthu-Louise#1, Mind MGMT Omnibus, Vol. 1, War Bears, EC Archives: Piracy, and Berserk: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - Goddess Mode #1, and Detective Comics before Batman IDW Publishing - Rocketeer Reborn#1, Belzebubs, and Ye Dynamite Entertainment - Mars Attacks#3 BOOM! Studios - Klaus and the Crying Snowman#1, The Great Wiz and the Ruckus, Waves, Wizard Beach#1, and Feathers Albatross Funnybooks - Mega Ghost#1 Black Mask Studios: Emmie-X: All Systems Go#1 Chapterhouse Publishing - Die Kitty Die!: Heaven and Hell#3 Devils Due/1First Comics - Love Town#1 Drawn and Quarterly - This Woman's Work, Cave-In, and Worn Tuff Elbow#2 Fantagraphics Books - Memorabilia, Ink and Anguish: A Jay Lynch Anthology, The Sea, Vanishing Act, Now#5, and In Christ There Is No East or West Feral House - Hi Jax and Hi Jinx: Life's a Pitch, and Then You Live Forever First Second - Science Comics: Polar Bears Lion Forge - Infinity 8, Vol. 3#2 Oni Press - The Long Con, Vol. 1, Long Road to Liquor City, and Guerrillas: Omnibus Edition Papercutz/Super Genius - Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars Omnibus Silver Sprocket - Nothing Nice to Say Sourcebooks - Illegal Starburns Industries Press - Fantasmagoria Holiday Special 2018 Titan Comics - Breakneck#1, Tyler Cross: Angola, and The Night Vanguard Productions - The Wally Wood Christmas Book VIZ Media - We Never Learn, Vol. 1, Abara: Complete Deluxe Edition, and 20th Century Boys: The Perfect Edition, Vol. 2 Yen Press - Mirai Dempa Books - An Invitation from a Crab Kodansha Comics - Quintessential Quintuplets, Vol. 1 Seven Seas Entertainment - I Want to Eat Your Pancreas, Vol. 1 Vertical Comics - Pop Team Epic, Second Season    

It's the first of the month, so it's time to look at the latest Previews catalog! What's more, this is Sterg's very first Previewsshow, and Derek honors this occasion with much fanfare. As listeners have come to expect from the monthly Previews shows, this episode goes long. In fact, it goes extra long, and in many ways this becomes a trial by fire for Sterg as a new cohost. But he rises to the occasion, providing solid and tireless recommendations of upcoming titles. For October, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss a variety of  publishers and titles such as:

 

 

]]> 10871 no On Location: SPX 2018, "The Practice of Diary Comics" Panel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-spx-2018-the-practice-of-diary-comics-panel Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:12 - Panel context, with Glynnis Fawkes 00:14:02 - "The Practice of Diary Comics" panel 01:09:40 - Wrap up 01:10:50 - Contact us The middle of last month, September 15-16, saw the Small Press Expo held in North Bethesda, MD. At the event, Derek moderated a panel on that Sunday afternoon entitled "The Practice of Diary Comics." Participating in the discussion were Glynnis Fawkes, Summer Pierre, Kevin Budnik, and Dustin Harbin. This episode of the podcast presents an audio recording of that event, and joining Derek in setting up the context is Glynnis Fawkes. She, Derek, and Summer Pierre were the ones who organized the panel, decided on its topic focus, and reached out to the other contributors about joining in. In setting up the panel recording, Glynnis and Derek discuss their initial plans for the session, some of the concerns they had in coming up with a focus, and how the topic evolved. Then they get to the recording of the event. The sound quality of the audio is "rough" at times -- the gain on some of the microphones sounds as if it was turned up a bit too high -- but that's something that the participants had no way of controlling. Nonetheless, everything is legible, and you can certainly make out clearly what everyone says...as well as Dustin's singing and consuming of donuts. A big thanks to Rob Clough for working with us on this panel and for overseeing the programming at this year's SPX! Participants from the left: Dustin Harbin, Summer Pierre, Kevin Budnik, Glynnis Fawkes, and Derek Royal   Tue, 02 Oct 2018 13:32:24 -0000 "The Practice of Diary Comics" Panel at SPX 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sriracha Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:12 - Panel context, with Glynnis Fawkes 00:14:02 - "The Practice of Diary Comics" panel 01:09:40 - Wrap up 01:10:50 - Contact us The middle of last month, September 15-16, saw the Small Press Expo held in North Bethesda, MD. At the event, Derek moderated a panel on that Sunday afternoon entitled "The Practice of Diary Comics." Participating in the discussion were Glynnis Fawkes, Summer Pierre, Kevin Budnik, and Dustin Harbin. This episode of the podcast presents an audio recording of that event, and joining Derek in setting up the context is Glynnis Fawkes. She, Derek, and Summer Pierre were the ones who organized the panel, decided on its topic focus, and reached out to the other contributors about joining in. In setting up the panel recording, Glynnis and Derek discuss their initial plans for the session, some of the concerns they had in coming up with a focus, and how the topic evolved. Then they get to the recording of the event. The sound quality of the audio is "rough" at times -- the gain on some of the microphones sounds as if it was turned up a bit too high -- but that's something that the participants had no way of controlling. Nonetheless, everything is legible, and you can certainly make out clearly what everyone says...as well as Dustin's singing and consuming of donuts. A big thanks to Rob Clough for working with us on this panel and for overseeing the programming at this year's SPX! Participants from the left: Dustin Harbin, Summer Pierre, Kevin Budnik, Glynnis Fawkes, and Derek Royal   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:12 - Panel context, with Glynnis Fawkes
  • 00:14:02 - "The Practice of Diary Comics" panel
  • 01:09:40 - Wrap up
  • 01:10:50 - Contact us

The middle of last month, September 15-16, saw the Small Press Expo held in North Bethesda, MD. At the event, Derek moderated a panel on that Sunday afternoon entitled "The Practice of Diary Comics." Participating in the discussion were Glynnis Fawkes, Summer Pierre, Kevin Budnik, and Dustin Harbin. This episode of the podcast presents an audio recording of that event, and joining Derek in setting up the context is Glynnis Fawkes. She, Derek, and Summer Pierre were the ones who organized the panel, decided on its topic focus, and reached out to the other contributors about joining in. In setting up the panel recording, Glynnis and Derek discuss their initial plans for the session, some of the concerns they had in coming up with a focus, and how the topic evolved. Then they get to the recording of the event. The sound quality of the audio is "rough" at times -- the gain on some of the microphones sounds as if it was turned up a bit too high -- but that's something that the participants had no way of controlling. Nonetheless, everything is legible, and you can certainly make out clearly what everyone says...as well as Dustin's singing and consuming of donuts.

A big thanks to Rob Clough for working with us on this panel and for overseeing the programming at this year's SPX!

Participants from the left: Dustin Harbin, Summer Pierre, Kevin Budnik, Glynnis Fawkes, and Derek Royal

 

]]> 4477 yes Webcomics: Reviews of E.T. Girl, Bicycle Boy, and Broken Telephone http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-et-girl-bicycle-boy-and-broken-telephone Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:15 - September? 00:05:24 - E.T. Girl 00:30:42 - Bicycle Boy 00:59:23 - Broken Telephone 01:23:16 - Wrap up 01:25:02 - Contact us On the September webcomics show, Sean and Derek look at three intriguing titles. They begin with E.T. Girl, written and illustrated by theplanetsdreamer (and whose real name is Kimberly Kotschi). This is a relatively new webcomic, a mix of sci-fi and fantasy, and plays upon the alien abduction convention. After that they check out Jackarais's Bicycle Boy, a work that has been going on for over 5 years. However, the narrative is well-paced and with incredible art. This is also a sci-fi story, but one set in an a post-apocalyptic future with a cyborg as its protagonist. The Two Guys wrap up the episode with the already-completed Broken Telephone, a unique series of interconnected storylines that become more solidly interwoven as the webcomic progresses. Ryan Estrada is the writer of all the storylines, but with each installment, 18 in all, he uses a different artist or artistic team to express his narrative vision. Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:16:59 -0000 Reviews of the Webcomics E.T. Girl, Bicycle Boy, and Broken Telephone full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Girl, a Boy, and a Telephone Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:15 - September? 00:05:24 - E.T. Girl 00:30:42 - Bicycle Boy 00:59:23 - Broken Telephone 01:23:16 - Wrap up 01:25:02 - Contact us On the September webcomics show, Sean and Derek look at three intriguing titles. They begin with E.T. Girl, written and illustrated by theplanetsdreamer (and whose real name is Kimberly Kotschi). This is a relatively new webcomic, a mix of sci-fi and fantasy, and plays upon the alien abduction convention. After that they check out Jackarais's Bicycle Boy, a work that has been going on for over 5 years. However, the narrative is well-paced and with incredible art. This is also a sci-fi story, but one set in an a post-apocalyptic future with a cyborg as its protagonist. The Two Guys wrap up the episode with the already-completed Broken Telephone, a unique series of interconnected storylines that become more solidly interwoven as the webcomic progresses. Ryan Estrada is the writer of all the storylines, but with each installment, 18 in all, he uses a different artist or artistic team to express his narrative vision. Time Codes:

On the September webcomics show, Sean and Derek look at three intriguing titles. They begin with E.T. Girl, written and illustrated by theplanetsdreamer (and whose real name is Kimberly Kotschi). This is a relatively new webcomic, a mix of sci-fi and fantasy, and plays upon the alien abduction convention. After that they check out Jackarais's Bicycle Boy, a work that has been going on for over 5 years. However, the narrative is well-paced and with incredible art. This is also a sci-fi story, but one set in an a post-apocalyptic future with a cyborg as its protagonist. The Two Guys wrap up the episode with the already-completed Broken Telephone, a unique series of interconnected storylines that become more solidly interwoven as the webcomic progresses. Ryan Estrada is the writer of all the storylines, but with each installment, 18 in all, he uses a different artist or artistic team to express his narrative vision.

]]> 5346 no Comics Alternative Special: A Roundtable Discussion on Comics and Podcasting for International Podcast Day 2018 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-special-a-roundtable-discussion-on-comics-and-podcasting-for-international-podcast-day-2018 In celebration of International Podcast Day 2018, Derek invites a variety of other comics podcasters to discuss their experiences in the medium. Joining him are Gina Gagliano, from Graphic Novel TK; Greg Matiasevich, from Robots from Tomorrow; Jay Loving, from The Best of the Rest; and Gwen Tarbox, from The Comics Alternative for Young Readers. Find out more about International Podcast Dayand how you can help promote podcasting worldwide. And be sure to share your thoughts on social media using #PodcastDay.     Sun, 30 Sep 2018 14:11:49 -0000 A Roundtable Discussion on Comics and Podcasting for International Podcast Day 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shop Talk In celebration of International Podcast Day 2018, Derek invites a variety of other comics podcasters to discuss their experiences in the medium. Joining him are Gina Gagliano, from Graphic Novel TK; Greg Matiasevich, from Robots from Tomorrow; Jay Loving, from The Best of the Rest; and Gwen Tarbox, from The Comics Alternative for Young Readers. Find out more about International Podcast Dayand how you can help promote podcasting worldwide. And be sure to share your thoughts on social media using #PodcastDay.    

In celebration of International Podcast Day 2018, Derek invites a variety of other comics podcasters to discuss their experiences in the medium. Joining him are Gina Gagliano, from Graphic Novel TK; Greg Matiasevich, from Robots from Tomorrow; Jay Loving, from The Best of the Rest; and Gwen Tarbox, from The Comics Alternative for Young Readers.

Find out more about International Podcast Dayand how you can help promote podcasting worldwide. And be sure to share your thoughts on social media using #PodcastDay.

 

 

]]> 5907 no On Location: The Second September Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-second-september-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find Michael and Derek are back at their local shop, Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, to discuss recent mainstream and indie titles that have captured their attention. Mike starts the ball rolling by focusing on recent expressions of a couple of second-tier characters, Doctor Strangeand Hawkman, as handled by Mark Waid and Robert Venditti, respectively. He then takes the conversation into a more "adult" direction with the first issue in Batman: Damned, part of DC's new Black Label imprint. This title is notable for a couple of reasons. First, it's now difficult to find, and as such, both fans and retailers are selling copies for a hefty price. But even more significant is the fact that in this first issue, readers get to see Batman naked. That's right, Wayne's wang. Batman's junk. The recent titles that Derek brings up are much tamer in nature. He begins with Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins's Black Badge (BOOM! Studio), the second issue of which will be released next week. This is a promising new limited series that has all of the secretive, undercover, and espionage-y markings of a Kindt narrative. However, Derek isn't as excited about the new Image series, Man-Eaters, written by Chelsea Cain and art by Kate Niemczyk. While he admires the message that seems to be embedded in the story, the first issue is rather sketchy in laying any satisfying narrative groundwork. But Derek more enamored by the minicomic Common Blessings and Common Curses, written by Maritsa Patrinos and nominated this year for an Ignatz Award in the Outstanding Minicomic category. It was a wonderful find at this year's Small Press Expo. Remember that The Comics Alternative's on-location series is now part of the Queen City Podcast Network! Check out the great podcast series that give life to Charlotte! Fri, 28 Sep 2018 12:33:27 -0000 The Second September Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Batman's Junk Michael and Derek are back at their local shop, Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, to discuss recent mainstream and indie titles that have captured their attention. Mike starts the ball rolling by focusing on recent expressions of a couple of second-tier characters, Doctor Strangeand Hawkman, as handled by Mark Waid and Robert Venditti, respectively. He then takes the conversation into a more "adult" direction with the first issue in Batman: Damned, part of DC's new Black Label imprint. This title is notable for a couple of reasons. First, it's now difficult to find, and as such, both fans and retailers are selling copies for a hefty price. But even more significant is the fact that in this first issue, readers get to see Batman naked. That's right, Wayne's wang. Batman's junk. The recent titles that Derek brings up are much tamer in nature. He begins with Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins's Black Badge (BOOM! Studio), the second issue of which will be released next week. This is a promising new limited series that has all of the secretive, undercover, and espionage-y markings of a Kindt narrative. However, Derek isn't as excited about the new Image series, Man-Eaters, written by Chelsea Cain and art by Kate Niemczyk. While he admires the message that seems to be embedded in the story, the first issue is rather sketchy in laying any satisfying narrative groundwork. But Derek more enamored by the minicomic Common Blessings and Common Curses, written by Maritsa Patrinos and nominated this year for an Ignatz Award in the Outstanding Minicomic category. It was a wonderful find at this year's Small Press Expo. Remember that The Comics Alternative's on-location series is now part of the Queen City Podcast Network! Check out the great podcast series that give life to Charlotte!

Michael and Derek are back at their local shop, Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, to discuss recent mainstream and indie titles that have captured their attention. Mike starts the ball rolling by focusing on recent expressions of a couple of second-tier characters, Doctor Strangeand Hawkman, as handled by Mark Waid and Robert Venditti, respectively. He then takes the conversation into a more "adult" direction with the first issue in Batman: Damned, part of DC's new Black Label imprint. This title is notable for a couple of reasons. First, it's now difficult to find, and as such, both fans and retailers are selling copies for a hefty price. But even more significant is the fact that in this first issue, readers get to see Batman naked. That's right, Wayne's wang. Batman's junk. The recent titles that Derek brings up are much tamer in nature. He begins with Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins's Black Badge (BOOM! Studio), the second issue of which will be released next week. This is a promising new limited series that has all of the secretive, undercover, and espionage-y markings of a Kindt narrative. However, Derek isn't as excited about the new Image series, Man-Eaters, written by Chelsea Cain and art by Kate Niemczyk. While he admires the message that seems to be embedded in the story, the first issue is rather sketchy in laying any satisfying narrative groundwork. But Derek more enamored by the minicomic Common Blessings and Common Curses, written by Maritsa Patrinos and nominated this year for an Ignatz Award in the Outstanding Minicomic category. It was a wonderful find at this year's Small Press Expo.

Remember that The Comics Alternative's on-location series is now part of the Queen City Podcast Network! Check out the great podcast series that give life to Charlotte!

]]> 3876 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Conversation with Tillie Walden http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-conversation-with-tillie-walden Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Tillie Walden 01:15:35 - Wrap up 01:17:30 - Contact us Sterg and Derek are happy to have Tillie Walden back on the podcast. (She was originally on The ComicsAlternativein June 2015, her very first podcast interview!) Her latest book, On a Sunbeam, will be released next week from First Second. This narrative actually began as a webcomic -- one that was nominated for an Eisner Award last year, and one that is still available online-- but now it will be available in print. The Two Guys talk with Tillie about the process of creating On a Sunbeamand its importance as a webcomic, the science fiction scaffolding around which the narrative is constructed, and how this work compares to some of her earlier books. In fact, much of the conversation is focused on the kind of fantastical stories Tillie spins out, with flying fish planes and cats large enough to ride on. The guys also ask her about last year's Spinning, the winner of a 2018 Eisner Award for Best Reality-Based Work, and the creative shifts she had to make with this outright autobiography. Over the course of their conversation, Tillie shares her experiences growing as a storyteller, her large and dedicated fanbase, the almost improvisational nature of her writing, and her discomfort being pigeonholed primarily as a writer for teens or as a lesbian creator. Thu, 27 Sep 2018 12:20:06 -0000 Another Conversation with Tillie Walden full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Queer Women in Space, or Women in Space Who Are Queer? Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Tillie Walden 01:15:35 - Wrap up 01:17:30 - Contact us Sterg and Derek are happy to have Tillie Walden back on the podcast. (She was originally on The ComicsAlternativein June 2015, her very first podcast interview!) Her latest book, On a Sunbeam, will be released next week from First Second. This narrative actually began as a webcomic -- one that was nominated for an Eisner Award last year, and one that is still available online-- but now it will be available in print. The Two Guys talk with Tillie about the process of creating On a Sunbeamand its importance as a webcomic, the science fiction scaffolding around which the narrative is constructed, and how this work compares to some of her earlier books. In fact, much of the conversation is focused on the kind of fantastical stories Tillie spins out, with flying fish planes and cats large enough to ride on. The guys also ask her about last year's Spinning, the winner of a 2018 Eisner Award for Best Reality-Based Work, and the creative shifts she had to make with this outright autobiography. Over the course of their conversation, Tillie shares her experiences growing as a storyteller, her large and dedicated fanbase, the almost improvisational nature of her writing, and her discomfort being pigeonholed primarily as a writer for teens or as a lesbian creator. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:20 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:01 - Interview with Tillie Walden
  • 01:15:35 - Wrap up
  • 01:17:30 - Contact us

Sterg and Derek are happy to have Tillie Walden back on the podcast. (She was originally on The ComicsAlternativein June 2015, her very first podcast interview!) Her latest book, On a Sunbeam, will be released next week from First Second. This narrative actually began as a webcomic -- one that was nominated for an Eisner Award last year, and one that is still available online-- but now it will be available in print. The Two Guys talk with Tillie about the process of creating On a Sunbeamand its importance as a webcomic, the science fiction scaffolding around which the narrative is constructed, and how this work compares to some of her earlier books. In fact, much of the conversation is focused on the kind of fantastical stories Tillie spins out, with flying fish planes and cats large enough to ride on. The guys also ask her about last year's Spinning, the winner of a 2018 Eisner Award for Best Reality-Based Work, and the creative shifts she had to make with this outright autobiography. Over the course of their conversation, Tillie shares her experiences growing as a storyteller, her large and dedicated fanbase, the almost improvisational nature of her writing, and her discomfort being pigeonholed primarily as a writer for teens or as a lesbian creator.

]]> 4827 yes Episode 294: Reviews of Coyote Doggirl, Baseline Blvd., and Cemetery Beach #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-294-reviews-of-coyote-doggirl-baseline-blvd-and-cemetery-beach-1 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Hitting a milestone 00:04:20 - Coyote Doggirl 00:40:29 - Baseline Blvd. 01:12:18 - Cemetery Beach #1 01:26:03 - Wrap up 01:27:22 - Contact us This week Sterg and Derek discuss three fascinating and genre-spanning titles. They begin with Lisa Hanawalt's Coyote Doggirl(Drawn and Quarterly). As the guys point out, this is a humor-infused story that engages with the western genre. Both Derek and Sterg mention that while they appreciate Hanawalt's off-beat sense of humor, they haven't been big fans of her past books, in that they weren't so much narrative comics as they were illustrated works of humor. But Coyote Doggirlis more of a "traditional" comic, with sequential panels and a discernible storyline. The premise is more or less simple, but that's part of the charm of this text. And the humor! Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to Emi Gennis's Baseline Blvd., released earlier this year from Kilgore Books and Comics. This actually began as a webcomic back in 2015, but it was published in hardcopy as part of Kilgore's Kickstarter campaignfor their 2018 releases. Where many of Gennis's comics have been profiles or biographies, this latest book is more autobiographical in nature. As the guys point out, there is a silent elegance about this work, and Gennis packs a lot of story -- and emotion -- into her brief narrative. The guys then wrap up the episode by looking at Warren Ellis and Jason Howard's Cemetery Beach#1(Image Comics). Sterg observes that this seems to be a typical Ellis narrative -- and "typical" in a good, demonstrative way -- and both of the guys comment on Howard's art. In fact, much of this first issue is carried by the illustrations. In all, it's a successful first issue. This seven-issue sci-fi series has a lot of promise, and both Derek and Sterg look forward to seeing where the creators take their premise. Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:48:01 -0000 Reviews of Coyote Doggirl, Baseline Blvd., and Cemetery Beach #1 full 294 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Juicy Feeling Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Hitting a milestone 00:04:20 - Coyote Doggirl 00:40:29 - Baseline Blvd. 01:12:18 - Cemetery Beach #1 01:26:03 - Wrap up 01:27:22 - Contact us This week Sterg and Derek discuss three fascinating and genre-spanning titles. They begin with Lisa Hanawalt's Coyote Doggirl(Drawn and Quarterly). As the guys point out, this is a humor-infused story that engages with the western genre. Both Derek and Sterg mention that while they appreciate Hanawalt's off-beat sense of humor, they haven't been big fans of her past books, in that they weren't so much narrative comics as they were illustrated works of humor. But Coyote Doggirlis more of a "traditional" comic, with sequential panels and a discernible storyline. The premise is more or less simple, but that's part of the charm of this text. And the humor! Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to Emi Gennis's Baseline Blvd., released earlier this year from Kilgore Books and Comics. This actually began as a webcomic back in 2015, but it was published in hardcopy as part of Kilgore's Kickstarter campaignfor their 2018 releases. Where many of Gennis's comics have been profiles or biographies, this latest book is more autobiographical in nature. As the guys point out, there is a silent elegance about this work, and Gennis packs a lot of story -- and emotion -- into her brief narrative. The guys then wrap up the episode by looking at Warren Ellis and Jason Howard's Cemetery Beach#1(Image Comics). Sterg observes that this seems to be a typical Ellis narrative -- and "typical" in a good, demonstrative way -- and both of the guys comment on Howard's art. In fact, much of this first issue is carried by the illustrations. In all, it's a successful first issue. This seven-issue sci-fi series has a lot of promise, and both Derek and Sterg look forward to seeing where the creators take their premise. Time Codes:

This week Sterg and Derek discuss three fascinating and genre-spanning titles. They begin with Lisa Hanawalt's Coyote Doggirl(Drawn and Quarterly). As the guys point out, this is a humor-infused story that engages with the western genre. Both Derek and Sterg mention that while they appreciate Hanawalt's off-beat sense of humor, they haven't been big fans of her past books, in that they weren't so much narrative comics as they were illustrated works of humor. But Coyote Doggirlis more of a "traditional" comic, with sequential panels and a discernible storyline. The premise is more or less simple, but that's part of the charm of this text. And the humor!

Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to Emi Gennis's Baseline Blvd., released earlier this year from Kilgore Books and Comics. This actually began as a webcomic back in 2015, but it was published in hardcopy as part of Kilgore's Kickstarter campaignfor their 2018 releases. Where many of Gennis's comics have been profiles or biographies, this latest book is more autobiographical in nature. As the guys point out, there is a silent elegance about this work, and Gennis packs a lot of story -- and emotion -- into her brief narrative.

The guys then wrap up the episode by looking at Warren Ellis and Jason Howard's Cemetery Beach#1(Image Comics). Sterg observes that this seems to be a typical Ellis narrative -- and "typical" in a good, demonstrative way -- and both of the guys comment on Howard's art. In fact, much of this first issue is carried by the illustrations. In all, it's a successful first issue. This seven-issue sci-fi series has a lot of promise, and both Derek and Sterg look forward to seeing where the creators take their premise.

]]> 5450 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Jason Lutes http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jason-lutes Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:50 - Interview with Jason Lutes 01:20:31 - Wrap up 01:21:13 - Contact us Jason Lutes began his Berlin series in the spring of 1996, with plans to publish his ambitious project over a 24-issue run. Over the years, he pared down the number of issues to 22, and the last of those was released in March of this year. Earlier this month, Drawn and Quarterly released a complete single-volume edition of Berlin, clocking in at over 550 pages, as well as a third volume of the series, City of Light, for those who had already gotten the previous two collections, City of Stones and City of Smoke, and didn’t want to get the completed series in just one volume. Berlinis a massive narrative with an ensemble cast. It takes place in that volatile city during the last days of the Weimar Republic, 1928-1933, when Germany was struggling with its economy and war reparations, and a variety of political factions -- in particular, the Communist Party and the National Socialist Workers Party -- were vying for power. Lutes’s story primarily focuses on the lives of Kurt Severing, a world-weary journalist, and Marthe Müller, an uncertain art student moving to Berlin and longing to define herself in this newly adopted city. But there are a variety of other characters, as well, and Lutes even peppers his fictional cast with several historically based figures, including the jailed journalist Carl von Ossietzky, Joseph Goebbels, Josephine Baker, and, yes, Adolf Hitler himself. The result is an expansive narrative that not only captures the Weimar culture at the time, but also explores individual desires and unpredictable relationships in the midst of political and economic upheaval. In his interview with him, Derek talks with Jason about the origins of the series, the amount of research that went into the project, how the city of Berlin became a point of inspiration, the various challenges he faced maintaining such an ongoing series for over 20 years, and where Jason's artistic ambitions may take him next. Mon, 24 Sep 2018 12:02:35 -0000 An Interview with Jason Lutes full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Stones, Smoke, and Light Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:50 - Interview with Jason Lutes 01:20:31 - Wrap up 01:21:13 - Contact us Jason Lutes began his Berlin series in the spring of 1996, with plans to publish his ambitious project over a 24-issue run. Over the years, he pared down the number of issues to 22, and the last of those was released in March of this year. Earlier this month, Drawn and Quarterly released a complete single-volume edition of Berlin, clocking in at over 550 pages, as well as a third volume of the series, City of Light, for those who had already gotten the previous two collections, City of Stones and City of Smoke, and didn’t want to get the completed series in just one volume. Berlinis a massive narrative with an ensemble cast. It takes place in that volatile city during the last days of the Weimar Republic, 1928-1933, when Germany was struggling with its economy and war reparations, and a variety of political factions -- in particular, the Communist Party and the National Socialist Workers Party -- were vying for power. Lutes’s story primarily focuses on the lives of Kurt Severing, a world-weary journalist, and Marthe Müller, an uncertain art student moving to Berlin and longing to define herself in this newly adopted city. But there are a variety of other characters, as well, and Lutes even peppers his fictional cast with several historically based figures, including the jailed journalist Carl von Ossietzky, Joseph Goebbels, Josephine Baker, and, yes, Adolf Hitler himself. The result is an expansive narrative that not only captures the Weimar culture at the time, but also explores individual desires and unpredictable relationships in the midst of political and economic upheaval. In his interview with him, Derek talks with Jason about the origins of the series, the amount of research that went into the project, how the city of Berlin became a point of inspiration, the various challenges he faced maintaining such an ongoing series for over 20 years, and where Jason's artistic ambitions may take him next. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:26 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:50 - Interview with Jason Lutes
  • 01:20:31 - Wrap up
  • 01:21:13 - Contact us

Jason Lutes began his Berlin series in the spring of 1996, with plans to publish his ambitious project over a 24-issue run. Over the years, he pared down the number of issues to 22, and the last of those was released in March of this year. Earlier this month, Drawn and Quarterly released a complete single-volume edition of Berlin, clocking in at over 550 pages, as well as a third volume of the series, City of Light, for those who had already gotten the previous two collections, City of Stones and City of Smoke, and didn’t want to get the completed series in just one volume.

Berlinis a massive narrative with an ensemble cast. It takes place in that volatile city during the last days of the Weimar Republic, 1928-1933, when Germany was struggling with its economy and war reparations, and a variety of political factions -- in particular, the Communist Party and the National Socialist Workers Party -- were vying for power. Lutes’s story primarily focuses on the lives of Kurt Severing, a world-weary journalist, and Marthe Müller, an uncertain art student moving to Berlin and longing to define herself in this newly adopted city. But there are a variety of other characters, as well, and Lutes even peppers his fictional cast with several historically based figures, including the jailed journalist Carl von Ossietzky, Joseph Goebbels, Josephine Baker, and, yes, Adolf Hitler himself. The result is an expansive narrative that not only captures the Weimar culture at the time, but also explores individual desires and unpredictable relationships in the midst of political and economic upheaval. In his interview with him, Derek talks with Jason about the origins of the series, the amount of research that went into the project, how the city of Berlin became a point of inspiration, the various challenges he faced maintaining such an ongoing series for over 20 years, and where Jason's artistic ambitions may take him next.

]]> 5043 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Youssef Daoudi http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-youssef-daoudi Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Youssef Daoudi 01:52:10 - Wrap up 01:52:47 - Contact us   Youssef Daoudi is a French creator whose previous albums include La Trilogie Noire, published by Casterman, and several works released by Glénat, including Mayday, Ring, and Tripoli. Unfortunately, these books aren’t yet available in English, but you can discover the art and storytelling of Daoudi through his brand new book from First Second, Monk!: Thelonious, Pannonica, and the Friendship behind a Musical Revolution. Indeed, as Youssef discusses with me in this interview you’re about to here, Monk!is his first work to be written originally in English, and later to be translated into French. This isn’t a graphic biography of the jazz legend, often called “The Mad Monk” or “The High Priest of Bop,” but a portrait of his relationship with Kathleen Annie Pannoica de Koenigswarter, a free-spirted and jazz-impassioned baroness who was a member of the Rothschild family. Daoudi meticulously lays out the contours of that relationship and how each sustained the other. In our conversation Derek talks with Youssef about the genesis of this project, his love of jazz, and what it was about mid-century bebop culture -- and in particular, the lives of Monk and Pannonica -- that so captured his imagination. Fri, 21 Sep 2018 15:36:44 -0000 An Interview with Youssef Daoudi full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hey, pop! Re-bop! Mop! Y-e-a-h! Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Youssef Daoudi 01:52:10 - Wrap up 01:52:47 - Contact us   Youssef Daoudi is a French creator whose previous albums include La Trilogie Noire, published by Casterman, and several works released by Glénat, including Mayday, Ring, and Tripoli. Unfortunately, these books aren’t yet available in English, but you can discover the art and storytelling of Daoudi through his brand new book from First Second, Monk!: Thelonious, Pannonica, and the Friendship behind a Musical Revolution. Indeed, as Youssef discusses with me in this interview you’re about to here, Monk!is his first work to be written originally in English, and later to be translated into French. This isn’t a graphic biography of the jazz legend, often called “The Mad Monk” or “The High Priest of Bop,” but a portrait of his relationship with Kathleen Annie Pannoica de Koenigswarter, a free-spirted and jazz-impassioned baroness who was a member of the Rothschild family. Daoudi meticulously lays out the contours of that relationship and how each sustained the other. In our conversation Derek talks with Youssef about the genesis of this project, his love of jazz, and what it was about mid-century bebop culture -- and in particular, the lives of Monk and Pannonica -- that so captured his imagination. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:22 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:01 - Interview with Youssef Daoudi
  • 01:52:10 - Wrap up
  • 01:52:47 - Contact us

 

Youssef Daoudi is a French creator whose previous albums include La Trilogie Noire, published by Casterman, and several works released by Glénat, including Mayday, Ring, and Tripoli. Unfortunately, these books aren’t yet available in English, but you can discover the art and storytelling of Daoudi through his brand new book from First Second, Monk!: Thelonious, Pannonica, and the Friendship behind a Musical Revolution. Indeed, as Youssef discusses with me in this interview you’re about to here, Monk!is his first work to be written originally in English, and later to be translated into French. This isn’t a graphic biography of the jazz legend, often called “The Mad Monk” or “The High Priest of Bop,” but a portrait of his relationship with Kathleen Annie Pannoica de Koenigswarter, a free-spirted and jazz-impassioned baroness who was a member of the Rothschild family. Daoudi meticulously lays out the contours of that relationship and how each sustained the other. In our conversation Derek talks with Youssef about the genesis of this project, his love of jazz, and what it was about mid-century bebop culture -- and in particular, the lives of Monk and Pannonica -- that so captured his imagination.

]]> 3338 no On Location: Talking with Creators at SPX 2018, Pt. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-spx-2018-pt-2 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:27 - Set up of episode 00:03:45 - Interview with Jennifer Hayden 00:18:17 - Interview with Fernando De Peña, Rodrigo Vargas, and Coni Yovaniniz 00:29:04 - Interview with Ellen Forney 00:52:01 - Interview with Miss Lasko-Gross 01:00:47 - Interview with Michael DeForge 01:22:26 - Interview with Evan Dahm 01:30:22 - Interview with Ben Costa and James Parks 01:38:13 - Interview with Ivy Atoms 01:44:33 - Interview with M.S. Harkness 01:52:30 - Interview with Maritsa Patrinos 02:02:36 - Interview with Maransa Harmon and Eric Taylor 02:13:21 - Wrap up 02:13:59 - Contact us More Good Smallness Last weekend Derek attended the Small Press Expo, which is held every September in North Bethesda, MD. At the event, he talked with a variety of artists who tabled there. This is the second of two on-location shows featuring these brief interviews, the first being released earlier this week. These short conversations range from around 6 minutes to 23 minutes in length, and while most were recorded on the floor of the convention, some were conducted outside on the hotel’s patio. The creators Derek talked with on this episode include Jennifer Hayden; Fernando De Peña, Rodrigo Vargas, and Coni Yovaniniz; Ellen Forney; Miss Lasko-Gross; Michael DeForge; Evan Dahm; Ben Costa and James Parks; Ivy Atoms; M.S.  Harkness; Maritsa Patrinos; and Maransa Harmon and Eric Taylor.   Thu, 20 Sep 2018 12:12:55 -0000 Talking with Creators at SPX 2018, Pt. 2 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Good Smallness Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:27 - Set up of episode 00:03:45 - Interview with Jennifer Hayden 00:18:17 - Interview with Fernando De Peña, Rodrigo Vargas, and Coni Yovaniniz 00:29:04 - Interview with Ellen Forney 00:52:01 - Interview with Miss Lasko-Gross 01:00:47 - Interview with Michael DeForge 01:22:26 - Interview with Evan Dahm 01:30:22 - Interview with Ben Costa and James Parks 01:38:13 - Interview with Ivy Atoms 01:44:33 - Interview with M.S. Harkness 01:52:30 - Interview with Maritsa Patrinos 02:02:36 - Interview with Maransa Harmon and Eric Taylor 02:13:21 - Wrap up 02:13:59 - Contact us More Good Smallness Last weekend Derek attended the Small Press Expo, which is held every September in North Bethesda, MD. At the event, he talked with a variety of artists who tabled there. This is the second of two on-location shows featuring these brief interviews, the first being released earlier this week. These short conversations range from around 6 minutes to 23 minutes in length, and while most were recorded on the floor of the convention, some were conducted outside on the hotel’s patio. The creators Derek talked with on this episode include Jennifer Hayden; Fernando De Peña, Rodrigo Vargas, and Coni Yovaniniz; Ellen Forney; Miss Lasko-Gross; Michael DeForge; Evan Dahm; Ben Costa and James Parks; Ivy Atoms; M.S.  Harkness; Maritsa Patrinos; and Maransa Harmon and Eric Taylor.   Time Codes:

More Good Smallness

Last weekend Derek attended the Small Press Expo, which is held every September in North Bethesda, MD. At the event, he talked with a variety of artists who tabled there. This is the second of two on-location shows featuring these brief interviews, the first being released earlier this week. These short conversations range from around 6 minutes to 23 minutes in length, and while most were recorded on the floor of the convention, some were conducted outside on the hotel’s patio. The creators Derek talked with on this episode include Jennifer Hayden; Fernando De Peña, Rodrigo Vargas, and Coni Yovaniniz; Ellen Forney; Miss Lasko-Gross; Michael DeForge; Evan Dahm; Ben Costa and James Parks; Ivy Atoms; M.S.  Harkness; Maritsa Patrinos; and Maransa Harmon and Eric Taylor.

 

]]> 8217 no Episode 293: Reviews of A Contract with God: Curator's Collection, Egg Cream #1, and Hey Kids! Comics! #1 and #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-293-reviews-of-a-contract-with-god-curators-collection-egg-cream-1-and-hey-kids-comics-1-and-2 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:02:43 - Introducing Stergios Botzakis 00:06:41 - A Contract with God: Curator's Collection 00:55:55 - Egg Cream #1 01:19:04 - Hey Kids! Comics! #1 and #2 01:38:48 - Wrap up 01:40:25 - Contact us This week The Comics Alternativegets a new cohost: Stergios Botzakis! And on his maiden voyage, Sterg becomes an integral part in discussions of three unique titles. He and Derek begin with A Contract with God: Curator's Collection(Dark Horse Books-Kitchen Sink Books). This classic of Will Eisner's is reproduced in two beautiful volumes, one with the original pencils and another with the inks. This slipcased edition is a first for the podcast, as the Two Guys have never discussed anything like an Artist's Edition or a Legacy Edition. As such, Sterg and Derek not only go through the specifics of Eisner's four stories, but they spend a lot of time talking about process, Eisner's original intentions, and the various insightful essays included in this two-volume set. After that the Two Guys with PhDs turn to Liz Suburbia's Egg Cream#1. The digital version of this was just made available to those who supported Czap Books' Kickstarter campaignlast year (and the print version will debut at MoCCA next spring). The core of this issue is the first installment of Suburbia's Sacred Heart, Vol. 2 - Livin' in the Future, a follow-up to her 2015 work, Sacred Heart. Sterg and Derek set a context by discussing the earlier book, then they explore the contours of the new work and how it expands upon the initial presentation of Suburbia's broader narrative. The guys wrap up with the first two issues of Howard Chaykin's Hey Kids! Comics!(Image Comics). Both Sterg and Derek are fans of Chaykin's work, although it's been a long time since his comics were discussed on the show. This is a satiric look at the history of the American comic-book history, and the guys spend some time looking at Chaykin's analogs to DC and Marvel as well as to such figures as Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Matt Baker, among many others. They also focus on the ways in which Chaykin structures his story, skipping around in time and representing a broad temporal overview, and they speculate on what Chaykin may be up to in his most recent project. Wed, 19 Sep 2018 12:08:39 -0000 Reviews of A Contract with God: Curator's Collection, Egg Cream #1, and Hey Kids! Comics! #1 and #2 full 293 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Welcome Sterg! Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:02:43 - Introducing Stergios Botzakis 00:06:41 - A Contract with God: Curator's Collection 00:55:55 - Egg Cream #1 01:19:04 - Hey Kids! Comics! #1 and #2 01:38:48 - Wrap up 01:40:25 - Contact us This week The Comics Alternativegets a new cohost: Stergios Botzakis! And on his maiden voyage, Sterg becomes an integral part in discussions of three unique titles. He and Derek begin with A Contract with God: Curator's Collection(Dark Horse Books-Kitchen Sink Books). This classic of Will Eisner's is reproduced in two beautiful volumes, one with the original pencils and another with the inks. This slipcased edition is a first for the podcast, as the Two Guys have never discussed anything like an Artist's Edition or a Legacy Edition. As such, Sterg and Derek not only go through the specifics of Eisner's four stories, but they spend a lot of time talking about process, Eisner's original intentions, and the various insightful essays included in this two-volume set. After that the Two Guys with PhDs turn to Liz Suburbia's Egg Cream#1. The digital version of this was just made available to those who supported Czap Books' Kickstarter campaignlast year (and the print version will debut at MoCCA next spring). The core of this issue is the first installment of Suburbia's Sacred Heart, Vol. 2 - Livin' in the Future, a follow-up to her 2015 work, Sacred Heart. Sterg and Derek set a context by discussing the earlier book, then they explore the contours of the new work and how it expands upon the initial presentation of Suburbia's broader narrative. The guys wrap up with the first two issues of Howard Chaykin's Hey Kids! Comics!(Image Comics). Both Sterg and Derek are fans of Chaykin's work, although it's been a long time since his comics were discussed on the show. This is a satiric look at the history of the American comic-book history, and the guys spend some time looking at Chaykin's analogs to DC and Marvel as well as to such figures as Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Matt Baker, among many others. They also focus on the ways in which Chaykin structures his story, skipping around in time and representing a broad temporal overview, and they speculate on what Chaykin may be up to in his most recent project. Time Codes:

This week The Comics Alternativegets a new cohost: Stergios Botzakis! And on his maiden voyage, Sterg becomes an integral part in discussions of three unique titles. He and Derek begin with A Contract with God: Curator's Collection(Dark Horse Books-Kitchen Sink Books). This classic of Will Eisner's is reproduced in two beautiful volumes, one with the original pencils and another with the inks. This slipcased edition is a first for the podcast, as the Two Guys have never discussed anything like an Artist's Edition or a Legacy Edition. As such, Sterg and Derek not only go through the specifics of Eisner's four stories, but they spend a lot of time talking about process, Eisner's original intentions, and the various insightful essays included in this two-volume set.

After that the Two Guys with PhDs turn to Liz Suburbia's Egg Cream#1. The digital version of this was just made available to those who supported Czap Books' Kickstarter campaignlast year (and the print version will debut at MoCCA next spring). The core of this issue is the first installment of Suburbia's Sacred Heart, Vol. 2 - Livin' in the Future, a follow-up to her 2015 work, Sacred Heart. Sterg and Derek set a context by discussing the earlier book, then they explore the contours of the new work and how it expands upon the initial presentation of Suburbia's broader narrative.

The guys wrap up with the first two issues of Howard Chaykin's Hey Kids! Comics!(Image Comics). Both Sterg and Derek are fans of Chaykin's work, although it's been a long time since his comics were discussed on the show. This is a satiric look at the history of the American comic-book history, and the guys spend some time looking at Chaykin's analogs to DC and Marvel as well as to such figures as Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Matt Baker, among many others. They also focus on the ways in which Chaykin structures his story, skipping around in time and representing a broad temporal overview, and they speculate on what Chaykin may be up to in his most recent project.

]]> 6214 no On Location: Talking with Creators at SPX 2018, Pt. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-spx-2018-pt-1 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Set up of episode 00:04:13 - Interview with Mike Freiheit 00:12:16 - Interview with Madeline McGrane 00:15:51 - Interview with Kelly Phillips and Claire Folkman 00:22:37 - Interview with Karl Christian Krumpholz 00:28:28 - Interview with Max de Radiguès 00:44:12 - Interview with Ryan Holmberg 00:59:14 - Interview with Scott Roberts 01:07:02 - Interview with Nathan Gelgud 01:16:30 - Interview with M. Dean 01:34:08 - Interview with Emi Gennis 01:41:58 - Interview with Alex Nall 01:49:24 - Interview with Ash Thomasand Sara Guzman 01:56:07 - Interview with Ellen Lindner 02:06:53 - Wrap up 02:07:43 - Contact us This past weekend, Derek attended Small Press Expo in North Bethesda, MD. While there, he interviewed a variety of creators, some of whom he didn't even know, about their recent releases and their upcoming projects. In this, the first of two on-location shows recorded at SPX, Derek talks with 15 different creators, with each brief interview lasting anywhere from 4 to about 17 minutes. Among the writers/artists/editors Derek talks with are Mike Freiheit, Madeline McGrane, Kelly Phillips and Claire Folkman, Karl Christian Krumpholz, Max de Radiguès, Ryan Holmberg, Scott Roberts, Nathan Gelgud, M. Dean, Emi Gennis, Alex Nall, Ash Thomas and Sara Guzman, and Ellen Lindner.   Tue, 18 Sep 2018 13:04:30 -0000 Talking with Creators at SPX 2018, Pt. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Small Is Good! Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Set up of episode 00:04:13 - Interview with Mike Freiheit 00:12:16 - Interview with Madeline McGrane 00:15:51 - Interview with Kelly Phillips and Claire Folkman 00:22:37 - Interview with Karl Christian Krumpholz 00:28:28 - Interview with Max de Radiguès 00:44:12 - Interview with Ryan Holmberg 00:59:14 - Interview with Scott Roberts 01:07:02 - Interview with Nathan Gelgud 01:16:30 - Interview with M. Dean 01:34:08 - Interview with Emi Gennis 01:41:58 - Interview with Alex Nall 01:49:24 - Interview with Ash Thomasand Sara Guzman 01:56:07 - Interview with Ellen Lindner 02:06:53 - Wrap up 02:07:43 - Contact us This past weekend, Derek attended Small Press Expo in North Bethesda, MD. While there, he interviewed a variety of creators, some of whom he didn't even know, about their recent releases and their upcoming projects. In this, the first of two on-location shows recorded at SPX, Derek talks with 15 different creators, with each brief interview lasting anywhere from 4 to about 17 minutes. Among the writers/artists/editors Derek talks with are Mike Freiheit, Madeline McGrane, Kelly Phillips and Claire Folkman, Karl Christian Krumpholz, Max de Radiguès, Ryan Holmberg, Scott Roberts, Nathan Gelgud, M. Dean, Emi Gennis, Alex Nall, Ash Thomas and Sara Guzman, and Ellen Lindner.   Time Codes:

This past weekend, Derek attended Small Press Expo in North Bethesda, MD. While there, he interviewed a variety of creators, some of whom he didn't even know, about their recent releases and their upcoming projects. In this, the first of two on-location shows recorded at SPX, Derek talks with 15 different creators, with each brief interview lasting anywhere from 4 to about 17 minutes. Among the writers/artists/editors Derek talks with are Mike Freiheit, Madeline McGrane, Kelly Phillips and Claire Folkman, Karl Christian Krumpholz, Max de Radiguès, Ryan Holmberg, Scott Roberts, Nathan Gelgud, M. Dean, Emi Gennis, Alex Nall, Ash Thomas and Sara Guzman, and Ellen Lindner.

 

]]> 7834 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Summer Pierre http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-summer-pierre Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup of interview 00:04:33 - Interview with Summer Pierre 01:19:14 - Wrap up 01:20:13 - Contact us The Two Guys were first introduced to the work of Summer Pierre during June of 2017. At the time, they were wanting to do a special episode of The Comics Alternative devoted to self-published creators, and John Porcellino recommended to Derek that they check out the work of Summer Pierre. At the time her minicomic Paper Pencil Life was at its fourth issue, and so they went to her website to get the full run of the title up to that point. They were impressed by her art and storytelling, and since then, Derek has made it a point of following Summer's work. She had told him last year in an email that she planned to have a new graphic memoir coming out from Retrofit in 2018, and at this week’s Small Press Expo that book will officially debut. All the Sad Songs is a moving account of the role of music in Summer’s life, from the creation of mix tapes to her performances as a musician, and how that music is linked to key moments with her various relationships and her growth as an artist. In many ways this book is a work of remembrance, but it’s not soaked in the kind of nostalgia that would come across as sentimental. On the contrary, Summer takes a hard look at herself during those times in her life, bearing herself in ways that, at times, may be a bit uncomfortable. But her story is authentic and speaks from the heart. In this interview, Derek talks with Summer about the genesis of this project, her experiences writing in long-form narrative, the role that music has played in her life, and the potential pitfalls in writing about her past in such an open and honest way. This is an interview that's been a long time in coming, but it was definitely worth the wait. Thu, 13 Sep 2018 19:37:10 -0000 An Interview with Summer Pierre full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Musical Definitions Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup of interview 00:04:33 - Interview with Summer Pierre 01:19:14 - Wrap up 01:20:13 - Contact us The Two Guys were first introduced to the work of Summer Pierre during June of 2017. At the time, they were wanting to do a special episode of The Comics Alternative devoted to self-published creators, and John Porcellino recommended to Derek that they check out the work of Summer Pierre. At the time her minicomic Paper Pencil Life was at its fourth issue, and so they went to her website to get the full run of the title up to that point. They were impressed by her art and storytelling, and since then, Derek has made it a point of following Summer's work. She had told him last year in an email that she planned to have a new graphic memoir coming out from Retrofit in 2018, and at this week’s Small Press Expo that book will officially debut. All the Sad Songs is a moving account of the role of music in Summer’s life, from the creation of mix tapes to her performances as a musician, and how that music is linked to key moments with her various relationships and her growth as an artist. In many ways this book is a work of remembrance, but it’s not soaked in the kind of nostalgia that would come across as sentimental. On the contrary, Summer takes a hard look at herself during those times in her life, bearing herself in ways that, at times, may be a bit uncomfortable. But her story is authentic and speaks from the heart. In this interview, Derek talks with Summer about the genesis of this project, her experiences writing in long-form narrative, the role that music has played in her life, and the potential pitfalls in writing about her past in such an open and honest way. This is an interview that's been a long time in coming, but it was definitely worth the wait. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:37 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:33 - Interview with Summer Pierre
  • 01:19:14 - Wrap up
  • 01:20:13 - Contact us

The Two Guys were first introduced to the work of Summer Pierre during June of 2017. At the time, they were wanting to do a special episode of The Comics Alternative devoted to self-published creators, and John Porcellino recommended to Derek that they check out the work of Summer Pierre. At the time her minicomic Paper Pencil Life was at its fourth issue, and so they went to her website to get the full run of the title up to that point. They were impressed by her art and storytelling, and since then, Derek has made it a point of following Summer's work. She had told him last year in an email that she planned to have a new graphic memoir coming out from Retrofit in 2018, and at this week’s Small Press Expo that book will officially debut. All the Sad Songs is a moving account of the role of music in Summer’s life, from the creation of mix tapes to her performances as a musician, and how that music is linked to key moments with her various relationships and her growth as an artist. In many ways this book is a work of remembrance, but it’s not soaked in the kind of nostalgia that would come across as sentimental. On the contrary, Summer takes a hard look at herself during those times in her life, bearing herself in ways that, at times, may be a bit uncomfortable. But her story is authentic and speaks from the heart. In this interview, Derek talks with Summer about the genesis of this project, her experiences writing in long-form narrative, the role that music has played in her life, and the potential pitfalls in writing about her past in such an open and honest way. This is an interview that's been a long time in coming, but it was definitely worth the wait.

]]> 4984 no Episode 292: The September Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-292-the-september-previews-catalog It's that time again, the occasion when Gwen and Derek meticulously go through the latest Previewscatalog and highlight a variety of upcoming comics they find of note. For the month of September, they discuss a variety of  publishers and titles such as: Image Comics - Bitter Root #1, Outer Darkness#1, The Terrible Elizabeth Dumn against the Devil in Suits, Midwest#1, 24 Panels, and Street Angel vs Ninjatech Dark Horse Comics - The Problem of Susan and Other Stories, Lightstep#1, and Wandering Island, Vol. 2 DC Comics/Vertigo -American Carnage#1, Animal Man 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Book One, Goldfish, New Edition, and Jinx, New Edition IDW Publishing - Atomic Robo: Greatest Hits, Atomic Robo and the Dawn of a New Era#1, Jingle Belle: The Homemades' Tale, Night Moves#1, and Black Crown Omnibus, Vol. 1 Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond 007#1 and Bettie Page#1 BOOM! Studios - Smooth Criminals#1, Firefly#1, and The Empty Man#1 Aftershock Comics - Witch Hammer Albatross Funnybooks - Grumble#1 Archie Comics - Archie#700 Avery Hill Publishing - Follow Me Inand Retrograde Orbit A Wave Blue World Inc. - Kismet, Man of Fate Birdcage Bottom Books - The Complete Matinee Junkie Conundrum Press - The Vagabond Valise Editions Tanabis - Hieronymus and Bosch Fantagraphics Books - I Am Young, Parallel Lives, James Warren, Empire of Monsters: The Man behind Creepy, Vampirella, and Famous Monsters, Doctor of Horror and Other Stories, Meat Warp, and Warrior Women: Spain Vol. 2 First Second - Tiger vs Nightmare, Vol. 1and Deogratias: A Tale of Rwanda(Reissue Edition) Gallery 13 - Stephen King's The Dark Towerseries Griffin Biooks - The Art of Graphic Memoir Humanoids - Hedy Lamarr: An Incredible Lifeand Vietnamese Memories Book 2: Little Saigon It's Alive! - Dunkirk Lion Forge - Quincredible, Vol 1and Watersnakes Mariner Books - Part of It: Comics and Confessions Mosaic Press -A History of Women Cartoonists NBM - The Beatles in Comics Penguin Books - Che: A Revolutionary Life Rebellion/2000 AD  - Hope Retrofit Comics - Our Wretched Town Hall SelfMadeHero - Lip Hook: A Tale of Rural Unease Souring Penguin Press - Meanwhile#9 Sunday Press Books - Thimble Theatre and the Pre-Popeye Cartoons of E.C. Segar Zuiker Press - Click: A Story of Cyberbullyingand Mend: A Story of Divorce VIZ Media - Ran and the Gray World, Vol. 1 Dempa Books - Pez Kodansha Comics - Battle Angel Alita Complete Box Setand Die Wergelder, Vol. 2 Seven Seas Entertainment - Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol. 3   Wed, 12 Sep 2018 12:34:29 -0000 The September Previews Catalog full 292 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Strong Women, Crime, and The Beatles It's that time again, the occasion when Gwen and Derek meticulously go through the latest Previewscatalog and highlight a variety of upcoming comics they find of note. For the month of September, they discuss a variety of  publishers and titles such as: Image Comics - Bitter Root #1, Outer Darkness#1, The Terrible Elizabeth Dumn against the Devil in Suits, Midwest#1, 24 Panels, and Street Angel vs Ninjatech Dark Horse Comics - The Problem of Susan and Other Stories, Lightstep#1, and Wandering Island, Vol. 2 DC Comics/Vertigo -American Carnage#1, Animal Man 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Book One, Goldfish, New Edition, and Jinx, New Edition IDW Publishing - Atomic Robo: Greatest Hits, Atomic Robo and the Dawn of a New Era#1, Jingle Belle: The Homemades' Tale, Night Moves#1, and Black Crown Omnibus, Vol. 1 Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond 007#1 and Bettie Page#1 BOOM! Studios - Smooth Criminals#1, Firefly#1, and The Empty Man#1 Aftershock Comics - Witch Hammer Albatross Funnybooks - Grumble#1 Archie Comics - Archie#700 Avery Hill Publishing - Follow Me Inand Retrograde Orbit A Wave Blue World Inc. - Kismet, Man of Fate Birdcage Bottom Books - The Complete Matinee Junkie Conundrum Press - The Vagabond Valise Editions Tanabis - Hieronymus and Bosch Fantagraphics Books - I Am Young, Parallel Lives, James Warren, Empire of Monsters: The Man behind Creepy, Vampirella, and Famous Monsters, Doctor of Horror and Other Stories, Meat Warp, and Warrior Women: Spain Vol. 2 First Second - Tiger vs Nightmare, Vol. 1and Deogratias: A Tale of Rwanda(Reissue Edition) Gallery 13 - Stephen King's The Dark Towerseries Griffin Biooks - The Art of Graphic Memoir Humanoids - Hedy Lamarr: An Incredible Lifeand Vietnamese Memories Book 2: Little Saigon It's Alive! - Dunkirk Lion Forge - Quincredible, Vol 1and Watersnakes Mariner Books - Part of It: Comics and Confessions Mosaic Press -A History of Women Cartoonists NBM - The Beatles in Comics Penguin Books - Che: A Revolutionary Life Rebellion/2000 AD  - Hope Retrofit Comics - Our Wretched Town Hall SelfMadeHero - Lip Hook: A Tale of Rural Unease Souring Penguin Press - Meanwhile#9 Sunday Press Books - Thimble Theatre and the Pre-Popeye Cartoons of E.C. Segar Zuiker Press - Click: A Story of Cyberbullyingand Mend: A Story of Divorce VIZ Media - Ran and the Gray World, Vol. 1 Dempa Books - Pez Kodansha Comics - Battle Angel Alita Complete Box Setand Die Wergelder, Vol. 2 Seven Seas Entertainment - Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol. 3  

It's that time again, the occasion when Gwen and Derek meticulously go through the latest Previewscatalog and highlight a variety of upcoming comics they find of note. For the month of September, they discuss a variety of  publishers and titles such as:

 

]]> 7860 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Tim Bird http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-tim-bird Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Setup of interview 00:04:11 - Interview with Tim Bird 01:00:17 - Wrap up 01:00:53 - Contact us The Great North Wood, which was just released through Avery Hill Publishing, is Tim Bird’s longest work to date. It’s the story of -- or perhaps a better way of putting would be that it’s a history or a meditation on -- an area in South London known for its wooded past. This includes areas such as Norwood, Gipsy Hill, Honor Oak, and Sydenham Hill Woods. In fact, as Tim mentions in the interview, Sydenham Hill Woods is really the last vestige of the heavily forested area south of London, and it’s where Tim and his family currently reside. What makes The Great North Woodstand out is Tim Bird’s use of geographic space to tell his story. As he and Derek discuss over the course of their conversation, character is at a minimum in Tim’s work, and he uses location and space to carry his narrative. What’s more, the creator often underscores the mystery and magic that has traditionally been a part of Britain’s wooded areas. Much of Derek's talk with Tim centers on the new book, but they also discuss his previous comics, such as the various works in his Grey Areaseries, also published by Avery Hill. These are also largely based on location and geographic space, and Tim goes into detail about his evolution as an artist, working through his Grey Areacomics to get to a place where he can more fully explore his surroundings in his latest book. Tue, 11 Sep 2018 11:29:30 -0000 An Interview with Tim Bird full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mystery and Magic Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Setup of interview 00:04:11 - Interview with Tim Bird 01:00:17 - Wrap up 01:00:53 - Contact us The Great North Wood, which was just released through Avery Hill Publishing, is Tim Bird’s longest work to date. It’s the story of -- or perhaps a better way of putting would be that it’s a history or a meditation on -- an area in South London known for its wooded past. This includes areas such as Norwood, Gipsy Hill, Honor Oak, and Sydenham Hill Woods. In fact, as Tim mentions in the interview, Sydenham Hill Woods is really the last vestige of the heavily forested area south of London, and it’s where Tim and his family currently reside. What makes The Great North Woodstand out is Tim Bird’s use of geographic space to tell his story. As he and Derek discuss over the course of their conversation, character is at a minimum in Tim’s work, and he uses location and space to carry his narrative. What’s more, the creator often underscores the mystery and magic that has traditionally been a part of Britain’s wooded areas. Much of Derek's talk with Tim centers on the new book, but they also discuss his previous comics, such as the various works in his Grey Areaseries, also published by Avery Hill. These are also largely based on location and geographic space, and Tim goes into detail about his evolution as an artist, working through his Grey Areacomics to get to a place where he can more fully explore his surroundings in his latest book. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:23 - Introduction
  • 00:02:29 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:11 - Interview with Tim Bird
  • 01:00:17 - Wrap up
  • 01:00:53 - Contact us

The Great North Wood, which was just released through Avery Hill Publishing, is Tim Bird’s longest work to date. It’s the story of -- or perhaps a better way of putting would be that it’s a history or a meditation on -- an area in South London known for its wooded past. This includes areas such as Norwood, Gipsy Hill, Honor Oak, and Sydenham Hill Woods. In fact, as Tim mentions in the interview, Sydenham Hill Woods is really the last vestige of the heavily forested area south of London, and it’s where Tim and his family currently reside. What makes The Great North Woodstand out is Tim Bird’s use of geographic space to tell his story. As he and Derek discuss over the course of their conversation, character is at a minimum in Tim’s work, and he uses location and space to carry his narrative. What’s more, the creator often underscores the mystery and magic that has traditionally been a part of Britain’s wooded areas. Much of Derek's talk with Tim centers on the new book, but they also discuss his previous comics, such as the various works in his Grey Areaseries, also published by Avery Hill. These are also largely based on location and geographic space, and Tim goes into detail about his evolution as an artist, working through his Grey Areacomics to get to a place where he can more fully explore his surroundings in his latest book.

]]> 3826 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Keiler Roberts http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-keiler-roberts Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:24 - Setup of interview 00:04:41 - Interview with Keiler Roberts 01:04:06 - Wrap up 01:04:48 - Contact us In 2009 Keiler Roberts began putting out a series of self-published minicomics that she titled Powered Milk. These were brief stories and scenarios where she represented the experiences she had as a mother, wife, and friend. Many of the situations were observational in nature -- for example, some of her Powered Milkcomics were one-panel expressions of something off-beat and telling that her daughter, Xia, had said -- but occasionally she would illustrate longer narratives that concerned her life as a mother. She has gathered these earlier minicomics in collections such as Powered Milk: Collected Stories and Miseryland. Last year, however, Keiler began turning to book-length format and publishing her Powered Milkstories, what she continues to call her work, through Koyama Press. In fact, Sunburning was one of the texts discussed last year during the publisher spotlight on Koyama Press’ spring 2017 releases. And this week we’ll see the release of Keiler’s next book, Chlorine Gardens. It’s a work that’s certainly in the Powered Milkspirit, but this book is notable in that Keiler engages more in long-form storytelling than she does in her previous comics. What’s more, and as Derek discusses with her, Keiler brings a structure to the various stories and observations that is more apparent than in the past. In this interview, Derek talks with Keiler about the evolution of her comics-writing, the role of journaling or diary illustration in her work, the process she undergoes in creating her stories, and the power -- as well as the limitations -- of exposing herself and her loved ones as subject matters for her narratives. Keiler has been on the podcast before, albeit briefly, during the 2016 Small Press Expo, an event at which she won an Ignatz Award for Best Outstanding Series, but this is a special occasion in that Keiler gets to discuss her work in a longer, more sustained manner.   Mon, 10 Sep 2018 12:32:13 -0000 An Interview with Keiler Roberts full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Exposures Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:24 - Setup of interview 00:04:41 - Interview with Keiler Roberts 01:04:06 - Wrap up 01:04:48 - Contact us In 2009 Keiler Roberts began putting out a series of self-published minicomics that she titled Powered Milk. These were brief stories and scenarios where she represented the experiences she had as a mother, wife, and friend. Many of the situations were observational in nature -- for example, some of her Powered Milkcomics were one-panel expressions of something off-beat and telling that her daughter, Xia, had said -- but occasionally she would illustrate longer narratives that concerned her life as a mother. She has gathered these earlier minicomics in collections such as Powered Milk: Collected Stories and Miseryland. Last year, however, Keiler began turning to book-length format and publishing her Powered Milkstories, what she continues to call her work, through Koyama Press. In fact, Sunburning was one of the texts discussed last year during the publisher spotlight on Koyama Press’ spring 2017 releases. And this week we’ll see the release of Keiler’s next book, Chlorine Gardens. It’s a work that’s certainly in the Powered Milkspirit, but this book is notable in that Keiler engages more in long-form storytelling than she does in her previous comics. What’s more, and as Derek discusses with her, Keiler brings a structure to the various stories and observations that is more apparent than in the past. In this interview, Derek talks with Keiler about the evolution of her comics-writing, the role of journaling or diary illustration in her work, the process she undergoes in creating her stories, and the power -- as well as the limitations -- of exposing herself and her loved ones as subject matters for her narratives. Keiler has been on the podcast before, albeit briefly, during the 2016 Small Press Expo, an event at which she won an Ignatz Award for Best Outstanding Series, but this is a special occasion in that Keiler gets to discuss her work in a longer, more sustained manner.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:24 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:41 - Interview with Keiler Roberts
  • 01:04:06 - Wrap up
  • 01:04:48 - Contact us

In 2009 Keiler Roberts began putting out a series of self-published minicomics that she titled Powered Milk. These were brief stories and scenarios where she represented the experiences she had as a mother, wife, and friend. Many of the situations were observational in nature -- for example, some of her Powered Milkcomics were one-panel expressions of something off-beat and telling that her daughter, Xia, had said -- but occasionally she would illustrate longer narratives that concerned her life as a mother. She has gathered these earlier minicomics in collections such as Powered Milk: Collected Stories and Miseryland. Last year, however, Keiler began turning to book-length format and publishing her Powered Milkstories, what she continues to call her work, through Koyama Press. In fact, Sunburning was one of the texts discussed last year during the publisher spotlight on Koyama Press’ spring 2017 releases. And this week we’ll see the release of Keiler’s next book, Chlorine Gardens. It’s a work that’s certainly in the Powered Milkspirit, but this book is notable in that Keiler engages more in long-form storytelling than she does in her previous comics. What’s more, and as Derek discusses with her, Keiler brings a structure to the various stories and observations that is more apparent than in the past. In this interview, Derek talks with Keiler about the evolution of her comics-writing, the role of journaling or diary illustration in her work, the process she undergoes in creating her stories, and the power -- as well as the limitations -- of exposing herself and her loved ones as subject matters for her narratives. Keiler has been on the podcast before, albeit briefly, during the 2016 Small Press Expo, an event at which she won an Ignatz Award for Best Outstanding Series, but this is a special occasion in that Keiler gets to discuss her work in a longer, more sustained manner.

 

]]> 4059 no On Location: The First September Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-first-september-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find It's time for another on-location episode recorded at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. In this first of two planned September visits, Michael and Derek talk with customers -- Zyg, Brian, and Alonzo -- and discuss some recent releases that strike their attention. Focusing on the mainstream, Michael highlights Fantastic Four#1. He discusses Marvel's former flagship title's return, and he goes on to speculate on the significance of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee's creation...not only with the Marvel Universe, but for all comics. Derek focuses on a few non-superhero titles, including Christopher Sebela and Shawn McManus's House Amok#1(IDW/Black Crown), Eric M. Esquivel and Ramon Villalobos's Border Town #1(DC/Vertigo), and the first two titles in DC's new Sandman initiative, The Sandman Universe#1and The Dreaming#1. With this episode, The Comics Alternative's on-location series joins the Queen City Podcast Network! Fri, 07 Sep 2018 12:10:03 -0000 On Location at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Legacies It's time for another on-location episode recorded at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. In this first of two planned September visits, Michael and Derek talk with customers -- Zyg, Brian, and Alonzo -- and discuss some recent releases that strike their attention. Focusing on the mainstream, Michael highlights Fantastic Four#1. He discusses Marvel's former flagship title's return, and he goes on to speculate on the significance of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee's creation...not only with the Marvel Universe, but for all comics. Derek focuses on a few non-superhero titles, including Christopher Sebela and Shawn McManus's House Amok#1(IDW/Black Crown), Eric M. Esquivel and Ramon Villalobos's Border Town #1(DC/Vertigo), and the first two titles in DC's new Sandman initiative, The Sandman Universe#1and The Dreaming#1. With this episode, The Comics Alternative's on-location series joins the Queen City Podcast Network!

It's time for another on-location episode recorded at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. In this first of two planned September visits, Michael and Derek talk with customers -- Zyg, Brian, and Alonzo -- and discuss some recent releases that strike their attention. Focusing on the mainstream, Michael highlights Fantastic Four#1. He discusses Marvel's former flagship title's return, and he goes on to speculate on the significance of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee's creation...not only with the Marvel Universe, but for all comics. Derek focuses on a few non-superhero titles, including Christopher Sebela and Shawn McManus's House Amok#1(IDW/Black Crown), Eric M. Esquivel and Ramon Villalobos's Border Town #1(DC/Vertigo), and the first two titles in DC's new Sandman initiative, The Sandman Universe#1and The Dreaming#1.

With this episode, The Comics Alternative's on-location series joins the Queen City Podcast Network!

]]> 4488 no Young Readers: Reviews of The Cardboard Kingdom, All Summer Long, and Be Prepared http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-the-cardboard-kingdom-all-summer-long-and-be-prepared Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Fare-thee-well to Paul! 00:05:51 - The Cardboard Kingdom 00:28:41 - All Summer Long 00:44:11 -Be Prepared 01:06:46 - Wrap up 01:08:09 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers show, Gwen and Derek discuss summer 2018 new releases, all geared to middle-grade readers. The first text, edited and illustrated by Chad Sell, is The Cardboard Kingdom, released by Random House Graphic. Readers learn about the lives and dreams of a group of neighborhood kids in short stories written by Jay Fuller, David DeMeo, Katie Schenkel, Kris Moore, Molly Muldoon, Vid Alliger, Manuel Betancourt, Michael Cole, Cloud Jacobs, and Barbara Perez Marquez. The second text they discuss is Hope Larson’s All Summer Long from Farrar Straus Giroux. And finally, Gwen and Derek review Vera Brosgol’s long-awaited memoir, Be Prepared, released by First Second Books. They start by reviewing a comic that demonstrates the experimentation that is currently taking place in the young reader category: Chad Sell’s edited collection of connected short stories, The Cardboard Kingdom. Set in a suburban neighborhood and featuring a truly diverse and engaging group of young kids, these stories show how imagination can function as a coping device. Young reader short story collections are not entirely new. Random House has also supported the Comics Squadseries, edited by Jennifer Holm and a rotating cast of co-editors, that have included themed volumes on "Recess," "Lunch," and "Detention." However, this short story collection boast only one artist, Chad Sell, and is presented as a cohesive narrative, with authors identified only at the end of the text. As such, the comic has a more cohesive feel, rather than a collection of fundamentally different stories that are linked only by theme. After that, Gwen and Derek check out Hope Larson's All Summer Long. This is the story of a 13-year-old, Bina, and her attempts to find meaning over the course of a summer. Growing up, she had been used to spending the summer with her best friend Austin, but during this particular summer, Austin goes off to soccer camp, leaving Bina to fend for herself. And part of this fending includes Austin's aggressive older sister, Charlie. This is a book all about growing up and finding your way over the course of significant life changes. Finally, Gwen and Derek discuss Vera Brosgol’s BePrepared. This memoir focuses on the summer between 4th and 5th grades, when she attends Russian summer camp in the hope of finding friends with whom she will have something in common. The opening vignette in the novel focuses on young Vera’s sense of cultural and economic isolation: as an immigrant from Russia and the daughter of a single mom living in a prosperous east coast suburb, she is often slow to pick up on the latest trends -- such as American Girl dolls -- and unable to approximate the lavish birthday parties that her classmates’ parents are able to throw for their children. At the end of the school year, Vera listens to the plans that her friends are making, attending girl scout camp, taking vacations to faraway destinations…and she feels left out again. However, at the Russian Orthodox church that she attends, Vera learns from Ksenya, a Sunday school friend, about Orra, a Russian heritage camp, and she is certain that it will not only be fun, but will give her something to talk about with her school friends in autumn. While the experience is certainly life changing, it nonetheless becomes something quite different than what Vera had expected. Thu, 06 Sep 2018 11:41:07 -0000 Reviews of The Cardboard Kingdom, All Summer Long, and Be Prepared full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It puts the rust in rustic" Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Fare-thee-well to Paul! 00:05:51 - The Cardboard Kingdom 00:28:41 - All Summer Long 00:44:11 -Be Prepared 01:06:46 - Wrap up 01:08:09 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers show, Gwen and Derek discuss summer 2018 new releases, all geared to middle-grade readers. The first text, edited and illustrated by Chad Sell, is The Cardboard Kingdom, released by Random House Graphic. Readers learn about the lives and dreams of a group of neighborhood kids in short stories written by Jay Fuller, David DeMeo, Katie Schenkel, Kris Moore, Molly Muldoon, Vid Alliger, Manuel Betancourt, Michael Cole, Cloud Jacobs, and Barbara Perez Marquez. The second text they discuss is Hope Larson’s All Summer Long from Farrar Straus Giroux. And finally, Gwen and Derek review Vera Brosgol’s long-awaited memoir, Be Prepared, released by First Second Books. They start by reviewing a comic that demonstrates the experimentation that is currently taking place in the young reader category: Chad Sell’s edited collection of connected short stories, The Cardboard Kingdom. Set in a suburban neighborhood and featuring a truly diverse and engaging group of young kids, these stories show how imagination can function as a coping device. Young reader short story collections are not entirely new. Random House has also supported the Comics Squadseries, edited by Jennifer Holm and a rotating cast of co-editors, that have included themed volumes on "Recess," "Lunch," and "Detention." However, this short story collection boast only one artist, Chad Sell, and is presented as a cohesive narrative, with authors identified only at the end of the text. As such, the comic has a more cohesive feel, rather than a collection of fundamentally different stories that are linked only by theme. After that, Gwen and Derek check out Hope Larson's All Summer Long. This is the story of a 13-year-old, Bina, and her attempts to find meaning over the course of a summer. Growing up, she had been used to spending the summer with her best friend Austin, but during this particular summer, Austin goes off to soccer camp, leaving Bina to fend for herself. And part of this fending includes Austin's aggressive older sister, Charlie. This is a book all about growing up and finding your way over the course of significant life changes. Finally, Gwen and Derek discuss Vera Brosgol’s BePrepared. This memoir focuses on the summer between 4th and 5th grades, when she attends Russian summer camp in the hope of finding friends with whom she will have something in common. The opening vignette in the novel focuses on young Vera’s sense of cultural and economic isolation: as an immigrant from Russia and the daughter of a single mom living in a prosperous east coast suburb, she is often slow to pick up on the latest trends -- such as American Girl dolls -- and unable to approximate the lavish birthday parties that her classmates’ parents are able to throw for their children. At the end of the school year, Vera listens to the plans that her friends are making, attending girl scout camp, taking vacations to faraway destinations…and she feels left out again. However, at the Russian Orthodox church that she attends, Vera learns from Ksenya, a Sunday school friend, about Orra, a Russian heritage camp, and she is certain that it will not only be fun, but will give her something to talk about with her school friends in autumn. While the experience is certainly life changing, it nonetheless becomes something quite different than what Vera had expected. Time Codes:

On this episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers show, Gwen and Derek discuss summer 2018 new releases, all geared to middle-grade readers. The first text, edited and illustrated by Chad Sell, is The Cardboard Kingdom, released by Random House Graphic. Readers learn about the lives and dreams of a group of neighborhood kids in short stories written by Jay Fuller, David DeMeo, Katie Schenkel, Kris Moore, Molly Muldoon, Vid Alliger, Manuel Betancourt, Michael Cole, Cloud Jacobs, and Barbara Perez Marquez. The second text they discuss is Hope Larson’s All Summer Long from Farrar Straus Giroux. And finally, Gwen and Derek review Vera Brosgol’s long-awaited memoir, Be Prepared, released by First Second Books.

They start by reviewing a comic that demonstrates the experimentation that is currently taking place in the young reader category: Chad Sell’s edited collection of connected short stories, The Cardboard Kingdom. Set in a suburban neighborhood and featuring a truly diverse and engaging group of young kids, these stories show how imagination can function as a coping device. Young reader short story collections are not entirely new. Random House has also supported the Comics Squadseries, edited by Jennifer Holm and a rotating cast of co-editors, that have included themed volumes on "Recess," "Lunch," and "Detention." However, this short story collection boast only one artist, Chad Sell, and is presented as a cohesive narrative, with authors identified only at the end of the text. As such, the comic has a more cohesive feel, rather than a collection of fundamentally different stories that are linked only by theme.

After that, Gwen and Derek check out Hope Larson's All Summer Long. This is the story of a 13-year-old, Bina, and her attempts to find meaning over the course of a summer. Growing up, she had been used to spending the summer with her best friend Austin, but during this particular summer, Austin goes off to soccer camp, leaving Bina to fend for herself. And part of this fending includes Austin's aggressive older sister, Charlie. This is a book all about growing up and finding your way over the course of significant life changes.

Finally, Gwen and Derek discuss Vera Brosgol’s BePrepared. This memoir focuses on the summer between 4th and 5th grades, when she attends Russian summer camp in the hope of finding friends with whom she will have something in common. The opening vignette in the novel focuses on young Vera’s sense of cultural and economic isolation: as an immigrant from Russia and the daughter of a single mom living in a prosperous east coast suburb, she is often slow to pick up on the latest trends -- such as American Girl dolls -- and unable to approximate the lavish birthday parties that her classmates’ parents are able to throw for their children. At the end of the school year, Vera listens to the plans that her friends are making, attending girl scout camp, taking vacations to faraway destinations…and she feels left out again. However, at the Russian Orthodox church that she attends, Vera learns from Ksenya, a Sunday school friend, about Orra, a Russian heritage camp, and she is certain that it will not only be fun, but will give her something to talk about with her school friends in autumn. While the experience is certainly life changing, it nonetheless becomes something quite different than what Vera had expected.

]]> 4258 no Episode 291: A Publisher Spotlight on Peow Studio http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-291-a-publisher-spotlight-on-peow-studio Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:17 - Catching up with Gwen 00:03:32 - Spotlight on Peow Studioreleases 01:09:53 - Wrap up 01:11:33 - Contact us This week Gwen and Derek focus their critical spotlight on recent releases from Peow Studio, a Swedish publisher of minicomics and longer narratives. As they point out, much of what is coming out from Peow is very creator-centered, personal, and even experimental in nature. This is a publisher that, while not well-known my many readers, deserves much more attention for the intriguing material that they release. While Gwen and Derek aren't able to delve too deeply into each of the texts that they discuss, they do give a broad overview of the press, the kind of comics they publish, and some of the defining characteristics they see in their catalog. They primarily focus on the publications Peow has released over the past year and a half, including: Internal Affairs- Patrick Crotty Ripple– Wai Wai Pang Rule Break– Anna Syvertsson Dust Pam– Thu Tran Salmon, Run!– Mackenzie Schubert Stages of Rot– Linnea Sterte Hot Summer Nights– Freddy Carrasco 310,310- Mushbuh Devil Maybe Cry- Patrick Crotty Yuri on Evangelion– Patrick Crotty Dark Angels of Darkness– Al Gofa Junky– Guillaume Singelin   Wed, 05 Sep 2018 11:41:14 -0000 A Publisher Spotlight on Peow Studio full 291 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Something Very Different Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:17 - Catching up with Gwen 00:03:32 - Spotlight on Peow Studioreleases 01:09:53 - Wrap up 01:11:33 - Contact us This week Gwen and Derek focus their critical spotlight on recent releases from Peow Studio, a Swedish publisher of minicomics and longer narratives. As they point out, much of what is coming out from Peow is very creator-centered, personal, and even experimental in nature. This is a publisher that, while not well-known my many readers, deserves much more attention for the intriguing material that they release. While Gwen and Derek aren't able to delve too deeply into each of the texts that they discuss, they do give a broad overview of the press, the kind of comics they publish, and some of the defining characteristics they see in their catalog. They primarily focus on the publications Peow has released over the past year and a half, including: Internal Affairs- Patrick Crotty Ripple– Wai Wai Pang Rule Break– Anna Syvertsson Dust Pam– Thu Tran Salmon, Run!– Mackenzie Schubert Stages of Rot– Linnea Sterte Hot Summer Nights– Freddy Carrasco 310,310- Mushbuh Devil Maybe Cry- Patrick Crotty Yuri on Evangelion– Patrick Crotty Dark Angels of Darkness– Al Gofa Junky– Guillaume Singelin   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:17 - Catching up with Gwen
  • 00:03:32 - Spotlight on Peow Studioreleases
  • 01:09:53 - Wrap up
  • 01:11:33 - Contact us

This week Gwen and Derek focus their critical spotlight on recent releases from Peow Studio, a Swedish publisher of minicomics and longer narratives. As they point out, much of what is coming out from Peow is very creator-centered, personal, and even experimental in nature. This is a publisher that, while not well-known my many readers, deserves much more attention for the intriguing material that they release. While Gwen and Derek aren't able to delve too deeply into each of the texts that they discuss, they do give a broad overview of the press, the kind of comics they publish, and some of the defining characteristics they see in their catalog. They primarily focus on the publications Peow has released over the past year and a half, including:

  • Internal Affairs- Patrick Crotty
  • Ripple– Wai Wai Pang
  • Rule Break– Anna Syvertsson
  • Dust Pam– Thu Tran
  • Salmon, Run!– Mackenzie Schubert
  • Stages of Rot– Linnea Sterte
  • Hot Summer Nights– Freddy Carrasco
  • 310,310- Mushbuh
  • Devil Maybe Cry- Patrick Crotty
  • Yuri on Evangelion– Patrick Crotty
  • Dark Angels of Darkness– Al Gofa
  • Junky– Guillaume Singelin

 

]]> 4477 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-christopher-sebela-ro-stein-and-ted-brant Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Setup of interview 00:03:54 - Interview with Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt 01:06:23 - Wrap up 01:06:59 - Contact us In Crowded (Image Comics), the protagonist Charlie Ellison finds herself the victim of a crowdfunded assassination. That’s right, a crowdfunded assassination. Charlie lives a quiet, normal life, going about her daily routine as anyone would. But she soon finds herself under fire, hunted by all of Los Angeles with her potential killers fueled by crowdfunding platform Reapr. As a result, Charlie hires Vita, one the lowest-rated bodyguards employed by the Dfend, an app allowing you to hire protection. The two then go on a quest to discover who is behind Charlie’s crowdfunded contract, and do so without Charlie falling victim or Vita screwing up. The first issue of Crowdedwas released in August, and last month Derek talked with the creators, Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt, immediately before the release date. The second issue will be coming out next week, on September 12. In this interview Derek talks with the creators about the ideas behind this project, the role that social media and technology plays in the series, how the three collaborate on each issue, and what we might expect as the series unfolds. Tue, 04 Sep 2018 19:26:03 -0000 An Interview with Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Crowdfunded Death Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Setup of interview 00:03:54 - Interview with Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt 01:06:23 - Wrap up 01:06:59 - Contact us In Crowded (Image Comics), the protagonist Charlie Ellison finds herself the victim of a crowdfunded assassination. That’s right, a crowdfunded assassination. Charlie lives a quiet, normal life, going about her daily routine as anyone would. But she soon finds herself under fire, hunted by all of Los Angeles with her potential killers fueled by crowdfunding platform Reapr. As a result, Charlie hires Vita, one the lowest-rated bodyguards employed by the Dfend, an app allowing you to hire protection. The two then go on a quest to discover who is behind Charlie’s crowdfunded contract, and do so without Charlie falling victim or Vita screwing up. The first issue of Crowdedwas released in August, and last month Derek talked with the creators, Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt, immediately before the release date. The second issue will be coming out next week, on September 12. In this interview Derek talks with the creators about the ideas behind this project, the role that social media and technology plays in the series, how the three collaborate on each issue, and what we might expect as the series unfolds. Time Codes:

In Crowded (Image Comics), the protagonist Charlie Ellison finds herself the victim of a crowdfunded assassination. That’s right, a crowdfunded assassination. Charlie lives a quiet, normal life, going about her daily routine as anyone would. But she soon finds herself under fire, hunted by all of Los Angeles with her potential killers fueled by crowdfunding platform Reapr. As a result, Charlie hires Vita, one the lowest-rated bodyguards employed by the Dfend, an app allowing you to hire protection. The two then go on a quest to discover who is behind Charlie’s crowdfunded contract, and do so without Charlie falling victim or Vita screwing up.

The first issue of Crowdedwas released in August, and last month Derek talked with the creators, Christopher Sebela, Ro Stein, and Ted Brandt, immediately before the release date. The second issue will be coming out next week, on September 12. In this interview Derek talks with the creators about the ideas behind this project, the role that social media and technology plays in the series, how the three collaborate on each issue, and what we might expect as the series unfolds.

]]> 4190 no Webcomics: Reviews of Kochab, Alchemilla, and Zap! http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-kochab-alchemilla-and-zap Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:24 - Congratulations to Christina Merkler! 00:04:48 - Kochab 00:28:10 - Alchemilla 00:58:38 - Zap! 01:23:20 - Wrap up 01:24:28 - Contact us On the August episode 0f the webcomics -- granted, a little late -- Sean and Derek check out three titles where the art is incredible. They begin with Kochab, a YA fantasy about two young women, one a fire spirit, and their explorations of surroundings and self. After that they check out a most curious webcomic, Sara Valta's Alchemilla. This narrative focuses on the struggles and encounters of Valo, a problematic adventurer, and Fabulous, the magical counselor of a crisis center for fanatical creatures. Sean and Derek wrap up with Zap!, a science fiction adventure, partly inspired by Star Wars, but instilled with a good bit of humor. Mon, 03 Sep 2018 11:30:58 -0000 Reviews of the Webcomics Kochab, Alchemilla, and Zap! full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal It's All about the Art Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:24 - Congratulations to Christina Merkler! 00:04:48 - Kochab 00:28:10 - Alchemilla 00:58:38 - Zap! 01:23:20 - Wrap up 01:24:28 - Contact us On the August episode 0f the webcomics -- granted, a little late -- Sean and Derek check out three titles where the art is incredible. They begin with Kochab, a YA fantasy about two young women, one a fire spirit, and their explorations of surroundings and self. After that they check out a most curious webcomic, Sara Valta's Alchemilla. This narrative focuses on the struggles and encounters of Valo, a problematic adventurer, and Fabulous, the magical counselor of a crisis center for fanatical creatures. Sean and Derek wrap up with Zap!, a science fiction adventure, partly inspired by Star Wars, but instilled with a good bit of humor. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:03:24 - Congratulations to Christina Merkler!
  • 00:04:48 - Kochab
  • 00:28:10 - Alchemilla
  • 00:58:38 - Zap!
  • 01:23:20 - Wrap up
  • 01:24:28 - Contact us

On the August episode 0f the webcomics -- granted, a little late -- Sean and Derek check out three titles where the art is incredible. They begin with Kochab, a YA fantasy about two young women, one a fire spirit, and their explorations of surroundings and self. After that they check out a most curious webcomic, Sara Valta's Alchemilla. This narrative focuses on the struggles and encounters of Valo, a problematic adventurer, and Fabulous, the magical counselor of a crisis center for fanatical creatures. Sean and Derek wrap up with Zap!, a science fiction adventure, partly inspired by Star Wars, but instilled with a good bit of humor.

]]> 5288 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Luisa, Now and Then and Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-luisa-now-and-then-and-green-almonds-letters-from-palestine Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:56 - Comments on translated plentitude 00:06:21 - Luisa, Now and Then 00:42:44 - Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine 01:02:45 - Wrap up 01:03:41 - Contact us For their August show, Pascal and Derek look at two works whose creators may be largely unknown here in the states. They begin with Carole Maurel's Luisa, Now and Then, one of the first books published as part of Humanoids' new Life Drawn imprint. As the guys point out, this is a time-travel narrative where an individual confronts herself from another time. While this is a popular trope, Maurel gives it a different spin. Instead of time-traveling backwards, as found in most such narratives (e.g., Peggy Sue Got Married), in Luisa, Now and Thenthe movement is forward in time. This story is filled with intriguing scenarios, given the premise, and also a lot of humor. One could argue that it's one of the best introductions to the Life Drawn imprint. Next, Derek and Pascal check out Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine, written and drawn by the sisters Anaële and Delphine Hermans (Lion Forge). This is an epistolary travelogue, the story of Anaële's 10-month stay in Bethlehem volunteering for a youth organization. She and Delphine corresponded during the Anaële's sojourn, and then Delphine used her sister's letters as a basis for her art. It's an intriguing concept, but as Pascal points out, there are potential problems in the visual representation, given the fact that the artist wasn't the one experiencing the time in Palestine and Israel. As a result, there are several unanswered questions imbedded in the narrative. There are various contexts that weren't addressed (apparently) in Anaële's original letters, so those are absent in the text. Fri, 31 Aug 2018 12:29:18 -0000 Reviews of Luisa, Now and Then and Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Of Time and Travel Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:56 - Comments on translated plentitude 00:06:21 - Luisa, Now and Then 00:42:44 - Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine 01:02:45 - Wrap up 01:03:41 - Contact us For their August show, Pascal and Derek look at two works whose creators may be largely unknown here in the states. They begin with Carole Maurel's Luisa, Now and Then, one of the first books published as part of Humanoids' new Life Drawn imprint. As the guys point out, this is a time-travel narrative where an individual confronts herself from another time. While this is a popular trope, Maurel gives it a different spin. Instead of time-traveling backwards, as found in most such narratives (e.g., Peggy Sue Got Married), in Luisa, Now and Thenthe movement is forward in time. This story is filled with intriguing scenarios, given the premise, and also a lot of humor. One could argue that it's one of the best introductions to the Life Drawn imprint. Next, Derek and Pascal check out Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine, written and drawn by the sisters Anaële and Delphine Hermans (Lion Forge). This is an epistolary travelogue, the story of Anaële's 10-month stay in Bethlehem volunteering for a youth organization. She and Delphine corresponded during the Anaële's sojourn, and then Delphine used her sister's letters as a basis for her art. It's an intriguing concept, but as Pascal points out, there are potential problems in the visual representation, given the fact that the artist wasn't the one experiencing the time in Palestine and Israel. As a result, there are several unanswered questions imbedded in the narrative. There are various contexts that weren't addressed (apparently) in Anaële's original letters, so those are absent in the text. Time Codes:

For their August show, Pascal and Derek look at two works whose creators may be largely unknown here in the states. They begin with Carole Maurel's Luisa, Now and Then, one of the first books published as part of Humanoids' new Life Drawn imprint. As the guys point out, this is a time-travel narrative where an individual confronts herself from another time. While this is a popular trope, Maurel gives it a different spin. Instead of time-traveling backwards, as found in most such narratives (e.g., Peggy Sue Got Married), in Luisa, Now and Thenthe movement is forward in time. This story is filled with intriguing scenarios, given the premise, and also a lot of humor. One could argue that it's one of the best introductions to the Life Drawn imprint.

Next, Derek and Pascal check out Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine, written and drawn by the sisters Anaële and Delphine Hermans (Lion Forge). This is an epistolary travelogue, the story of Anaële's 10-month stay in Bethlehem volunteering for a youth organization. She and Delphine corresponded during the Anaële's sojourn, and then Delphine used her sister's letters as a basis for her art. It's an intriguing concept, but as Pascal points out, there are potential problems in the visual representation, given the fact that the artist wasn't the one experiencing the time in Palestine and Israel. As a result, there are several unanswered questions imbedded in the narrative. There are various contexts that weren't addressed (apparently) in Anaële's original letters, so those are absent in the text.

]]> 4011 no Manga: Reviews of Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 and Slum Wolf http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-captain-harlock-the-classic-collection-vol-1-and-slum-wolf Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:34 - Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 00:42:39 - Slum Wolf 01:14:09 - Wrap up 01:15:17 - Contact us This month Shea and Derek discuss two great works that bring back some older, or classic, manga. They begin with Leiji Matsumoto's Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 (Seven Seas Entertainment), a series that originally ran between 1977 and 1979. Captain Harlockis a classic science fiction work, and with a space pirate protagonist who can be seen as a romantic hero. The Two Guys discuss the figure of Harlock as a curious mixture, while at the same time trying to ferret out the his philosophy. In many ways, they see this manga anchored in its time, both aesthetically and politically. But this work definitely isn't limited to it's time and can be appreciated today. Next they turn to Slum Wolf, another translated collection from Tadao Tsuge (New York Review Comics). An earlier collection of Tsuge's work, Trash Market, was released in 2015 by Drawn and Quarterly (which the guys reviewed on their June 2015 episode). Slum Wolfis a collection of nine stories originally published between 1969 and 1978 in various publications such as Garo and Yagyō. It also includes an essay by Tsuge, as well as a outstanding contextual essay by Ryan Holmberg, who also edited and translated the collection. The guys discuss all the stories, to greater or lesser degrees of depth, but they spend most of their time talking about the linking features that bind most of the narratives. As both Derek and Shea point out, this is one of the manga highlights of the year, so far.   Thu, 30 Aug 2018 20:44:44 -0000 Reviews of Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 and Slum Wolf full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "There's definitely some kind of cycling going on here" Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:34 - Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 00:42:39 - Slum Wolf 01:14:09 - Wrap up 01:15:17 - Contact us This month Shea and Derek discuss two great works that bring back some older, or classic, manga. They begin with Leiji Matsumoto's Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 (Seven Seas Entertainment), a series that originally ran between 1977 and 1979. Captain Harlockis a classic science fiction work, and with a space pirate protagonist who can be seen as a romantic hero. The Two Guys discuss the figure of Harlock as a curious mixture, while at the same time trying to ferret out the his philosophy. In many ways, they see this manga anchored in its time, both aesthetically and politically. But this work definitely isn't limited to it's time and can be appreciated today. Next they turn to Slum Wolf, another translated collection from Tadao Tsuge (New York Review Comics). An earlier collection of Tsuge's work, Trash Market, was released in 2015 by Drawn and Quarterly (which the guys reviewed on their June 2015 episode). Slum Wolfis a collection of nine stories originally published between 1969 and 1978 in various publications such as Garo and Yagyō. It also includes an essay by Tsuge, as well as a outstanding contextual essay by Ryan Holmberg, who also edited and translated the collection. The guys discuss all the stories, to greater or lesser degrees of depth, but they spend most of their time talking about the linking features that bind most of the narratives. As both Derek and Shea point out, this is one of the manga highlights of the year, so far.   Time Codes:

This month Shea and Derek discuss two great works that bring back some older, or classic, manga. They begin with Leiji Matsumoto's Captain Harlock: The Classic Collection, Vol 1 (Seven Seas Entertainment), a series that originally ran between 1977 and 1979. Captain Harlockis a classic science fiction work, and with a space pirate protagonist who can be seen as a romantic hero. The Two Guys discuss the figure of Harlock as a curious mixture, while at the same time trying to ferret out the his philosophy. In many ways, they see this manga anchored in its time, both aesthetically and politically. But this work definitely isn't limited to it's time and can be appreciated today.

Next they turn to Slum Wolf, another translated collection from Tadao Tsuge (New York Review Comics). An earlier collection of Tsuge's work, Trash Market, was released in 2015 by Drawn and Quarterly (which the guys reviewed on their June 2015 episode). Slum Wolfis a collection of nine stories originally published between 1969 and 1978 in various publications such as Garo and Yagyō. It also includes an essay by Tsuge, as well as a outstanding contextual essay by Ryan Holmberg, who also edited and translated the collection. The guys discuss all the stories, to greater or lesser degrees of depth, but they spend most of their time talking about the linking features that bind most of the narratives. As both Derek and Shea point out, this is one of the manga highlights of the year, so far.

 

]]> 4699 no Episode 290: A Discussion of the James Bond Comics Published by Dynamite Entertainment http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-290-a-discussion-of-the-james-bond-comics-published-by-dynamite-entertainment Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Setting a James Bond context 00:04:59 - A discussion of the James Bond comics published by Dynamite Entertainment 00:59:59 - Wrap up 01:01:43 - Contact us This week's episode of The Comics Alternative is special. Gwen and Derek devote their entire show to the the James Bond comics that have been coming out from Dynamite Entertainment for the past few years. They begin the show by sharing some of their own experiences with the James Bond franchise and how much it was a part of their childhoods. Then they get into the core of the show, discussing the eight James Bond trades, along with the recent six-issue The Body, that have been released since 2016. While they are unable to talk in detail about all of the works -- after all, there's a lotto cover -- they nonetheless provide a broad overview of the various elements, themes, and styles that define Dynamite's James Bond, plunging into deeper readings whenever possible. The various works they cover, along with the creators and years of trade publication, include: Vargr– Warren Ellis and Jason Masters   2016 Eidolon– Warren Ellis and Jason Masters  2017 Hammerhead– Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida  2017 Black Box– Benjamin Percy and Ralph Lobosco. 2017 Felix Leiter– James Robinson and Aaron Campbell. 2017 Kill Chain– Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida  2018 Casino Royale– Van Jensen and Dennis Calero  2018 Case Files– Various creators (including the one-shots Service, Moneypenny, Solstice, and M)  2018 The Body– Ales Kot and various artists  2018   Wed, 29 Aug 2018 14:00:00 -0000 A Discussion of the James Bond Comics Published by Dynamite Entertainment full 290 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bond. James Bond. Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Setting a James Bond context 00:04:59 - A discussion of the James Bond comics published by Dynamite Entertainment 00:59:59 - Wrap up 01:01:43 - Contact us This week's episode of The Comics Alternative is special. Gwen and Derek devote their entire show to the the James Bond comics that have been coming out from Dynamite Entertainment for the past few years. They begin the show by sharing some of their own experiences with the James Bond franchise and how much it was a part of their childhoods. Then they get into the core of the show, discussing the eight James Bond trades, along with the recent six-issue The Body, that have been released since 2016. While they are unable to talk in detail about all of the works -- after all, there's a lotto cover -- they nonetheless provide a broad overview of the various elements, themes, and styles that define Dynamite's James Bond, plunging into deeper readings whenever possible. The various works they cover, along with the creators and years of trade publication, include: Vargr– Warren Ellis and Jason Masters   2016 Eidolon– Warren Ellis and Jason Masters  2017 Hammerhead– Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida  2017 Black Box– Benjamin Percy and Ralph Lobosco. 2017 Felix Leiter– James Robinson and Aaron Campbell. 2017 Kill Chain– Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida  2018 Casino Royale– Van Jensen and Dennis Calero  2018 Case Files– Various creators (including the one-shots Service, Moneypenny, Solstice, and M)  2018 The Body– Ales Kot and various artists  2018   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:36 - Setting a James Bond context
  • 00:04:59 - A discussion of the James Bond comics published by Dynamite Entertainment
  • 00:59:59 - Wrap up
  • 01:01:43 - Contact us

This week's episode of The Comics Alternative is special. Gwen and Derek devote their entire show to the the James Bond comics that have been coming out from Dynamite Entertainment for the past few years. They begin the show by sharing some of their own experiences with the James Bond franchise and how much it was a part of their childhoods. Then they get into the core of the show, discussing the eight James Bond trades, along with the recent six-issue The Body, that have been released since 2016. While they are unable to talk in detail about all of the works -- after all, there's a lotto cover -- they nonetheless provide a broad overview of the various elements, themes, and styles that define Dynamite's James Bond, plunging into deeper readings whenever possible. The various works they cover, along with the creators and years of trade publication, include:

  • Vargr– Warren Ellis and Jason Masters   2016
  • Eidolon– Warren Ellis and Jason Masters  2017
  • Hammerhead– Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida  2017
  • Black Box– Benjamin Percy and Ralph Lobosco. 2017
  • Felix Leiter– James Robinson and Aaron Campbell. 2017
  • Kill Chain– Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida  2018
  • Casino Royale– Van Jensen and Dennis Calero  2018
  • Case Files– Various creators (including the one-shots Service, Moneypenny, Solstice, and M)  2018
  • The Body– Ales Kot and various artists  2018

 

]]> 3902 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Sean Lewis and Caitlin Yarsky http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-sean-lewis-and-caitlin-yarsky Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Setup of interview 00:04:37 - Interview with Sean Lewis and Caitlin Yarsky 01:03:03 - Wrap up 01:03:44 - Contact us In November of last year readers saw the first issue of what was a brand-new series from Image Comics, Coyotes. It was the latest creation from writer Sean Lewis, who had authored other Image series including The Few and Saints, as well as writing recent titles for Aftershock such as Betrothed and Clankillers. For Coyotes, Sean chose as his illustrator a relative newcomer to comics, Caitlin Yarsky. While this is the first ongoing series where she provides all of the interior art, Caitlin’s work is a standout component and, in many ways, primarily defines the tone and sheer impact of Coyotes. As revealed in the first narrative arc, collected as a trade earlier this spring, Coyotesis about a young girl, name Red, who lives in a southwest border region fighting against a legion of wolves who prey upon women. She’s aided in her fight by the Victorias, an all-female society empowered by an earth goddess and united to fight against the masculinist lycanthropes. The series has a feel of a grand mythology, and it touches upon a variety of topics, including female empowerment, coming of age, and socio-industrial exploitation. In the first issue of the second narrative arc, there is quite a bit of backstory and context to the world Lewis and Yarsky establish in the first four issues, including a history of the Four Grannies of the Earth, the earth goddess Gaia, and the transformative nature of the lycanthropes. In this interview, Derek talks with Cailtin and Sean about their collaborative process, where they are in their story, and what plans they have for the series as a whole.   Fri, 10 Aug 2018 12:15:33 -0000 An Interview with Sean Lewis and Caitlin Yarsky full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Transformations Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Setup of interview 00:04:37 - Interview with Sean Lewis and Caitlin Yarsky 01:03:03 - Wrap up 01:03:44 - Contact us In November of last year readers saw the first issue of what was a brand-new series from Image Comics, Coyotes. It was the latest creation from writer Sean Lewis, who had authored other Image series including The Few and Saints, as well as writing recent titles for Aftershock such as Betrothed and Clankillers. For Coyotes, Sean chose as his illustrator a relative newcomer to comics, Caitlin Yarsky. While this is the first ongoing series where she provides all of the interior art, Caitlin’s work is a standout component and, in many ways, primarily defines the tone and sheer impact of Coyotes. As revealed in the first narrative arc, collected as a trade earlier this spring, Coyotesis about a young girl, name Red, who lives in a southwest border region fighting against a legion of wolves who prey upon women. She’s aided in her fight by the Victorias, an all-female society empowered by an earth goddess and united to fight against the masculinist lycanthropes. The series has a feel of a grand mythology, and it touches upon a variety of topics, including female empowerment, coming of age, and socio-industrial exploitation. In the first issue of the second narrative arc, there is quite a bit of backstory and context to the world Lewis and Yarsky establish in the first four issues, including a history of the Four Grannies of the Earth, the earth goddess Gaia, and the transformative nature of the lycanthropes. In this interview, Derek talks with Cailtin and Sean about their collaborative process, where they are in their story, and what plans they have for the series as a whole.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:34 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:37 - Interview with Sean Lewis and Caitlin Yarsky
  • 01:03:03 - Wrap up
  • 01:03:44 - Contact us

In November of last year readers saw the first issue of what was a brand-new series from Image Comics, Coyotes. It was the latest creation from writer Sean Lewis, who had authored other Image series including The Few and Saints, as well as writing recent titles for Aftershock such as Betrothed and Clankillers. For Coyotes, Sean chose as his illustrator a relative newcomer to comics, Caitlin Yarsky. While this is the first ongoing series where she provides all of the interior art, Caitlin’s work is a standout component and, in many ways, primarily defines the tone and sheer impact of Coyotes. As revealed in the first narrative arc, collected as a trade earlier this spring, Coyotesis about a young girl, name Red, who lives in a southwest border region fighting against a legion of wolves who prey upon women. She’s aided in her fight by the Victorias, an all-female society empowered by an earth goddess and united to fight against the masculinist lycanthropes. The series has a feel of a grand mythology, and it touches upon a variety of topics, including female empowerment, coming of age, and socio-industrial exploitation. In the first issue of the second narrative arc, there is quite a bit of backstory and context to the world Lewis and Yarsky establish in the first four issues, including a history of the Four Grannies of the Earth, the earth goddess Gaia, and the transformative nature of the lycanthropes. In this interview, Derek talks with Cailtin and Sean about their collaborative process, where they are in their story, and what plans they have for the series as a whole.

 

]]> 3995 no Episode 289: The August Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-289-the-august-previews-catalog It's that time again! It's the beginning of the month, and the latest issue of the Previews catalog is out. And as they always do, the Two Guys meticulously go through the latest solicits, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles in Previewsthat they're interested in or they think is worth considering. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on in the August catalog include: Image Comics - Blackbird#1, Dead Rabbit#1, Exorsisters#1, Juke Joint#1, Wytches: Bad Egg Halloween Special, Norroway Book 1: The Black Bull of Norroway, Men of Wrath, and Royalboiler: Brandon Graham's Drawn Out Collection Dark Horse Comics - Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion#1, Black Hammer: Age of Doom#8, and EC Archives: Vault of Horror Vol. 5 DC Comics/Vertigo - Cursed Comics Cavalcade#1, The Books of Magic#1, Lucifer#1, Hex Wives#1, and Vertigo: A Celebration of 25 Years IDW Publishing - Star Wars Adventures: Tales from Vader's Castle#1-#5, The Highest House, Mattéo Book One: 1914-1915, The Great Treasury of Christmas Comic Book Stories, Lodger#1, and Supers, Book One Dynamite Entertainment - The Lone Ranger#1, James Bond: The Body, and The Spirit: Corpse-Makers BOOM! Studios - Adventure Time Season 11#1, Sparrowhawk#1, Hex Vet: Witches in Training, I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation, and The Sons of El Topo Vol 1: Cain Abrams Comicarts - Run: Book One Adhouse - Live/Work#2 Aftershock Comics - Dead Kings#1, The Last Space Race#1, and Lollipop Kids#1 Ah Comics - Mark Twain's Niagara Book Ahoy Comics - Captain Ginger#1 and Edgar Allan Poe's Snifter of Terror#1 Animal Media Group - Queen of Kenosha Black Mask Studios - Sex Death Revolution#1 Candlewick Press - Lost Soul, Be at Peace Conundrum Press - Flem Fantagraphics Books - Kramer's Ergot 10, Love and Rockets Vol. IV#6, Fante Bukowski Three: A Perfect Failure, and The Crumb Compendium First Second - Last Pick Vol. 1, Science Comics: The Brain, On a Sunbeam, Secret Coders Vol. 6: Monsters and Modules, The Unsinkable Walker Bean and the Knights of the Waxing Moon, and The Zita the Spacegirl Trilogy Box Set Gallery 13 - To Build a Fire Graphix - The Hidden Witch Harper Collins Publishers - To Kill a Mockingbird Humanoids - My New York Marathonand Superman Isn't Jewish (But I Am Kinda) Iron Circus Comics - The Girl Who Married a Skull and Other African Stories Learner Publishing Group - Jane Austen: Her Heart Did Whisper Lion Forge - Petit, Quantum Mechanics, and Timothy Top NBM - Of Blood and Dust New York Review Comics - Piero Oni Press - Merry Men Pantheon Books - Anne Frank's Diary: The Graphic Adaptation Pegasus - The First Man: The Graphic Novel Quirk Books - The League of Regrettable Sidekicks Renegade Arts Entertainment - Frank Scribner - Belonging: A German Reckons with History and Home SelfMadeHero - Andy: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol, H.P. Lovecraft: Four Classic Horror Stories, and Wolf Silver Sprocket - Snowbirdand You Can Try Again Souring Penguin Press - Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire, Vol. 1 Triangle Square - Zenobia VIZ Media - Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection, Tokyo Ghoul Complete Box Set, Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction Vol. 3, and Ao Haru Ride Vol. 1 Yen Press - Crush Kodansha Comics - Battle Angel Alita: Holy Nights and Other Stories Seven Seas Entertainment - Wonderland Vol. 1 Vertical Comics - Pop Team Epic Vol. 1   Wed, 08 Aug 2018 12:24:56 -0000 A Look at the August Previews Catalog full 289 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Witches and Adaptations It's that time again! It's the beginning of the month, and the latest issue of the Previews catalog is out. And as they always do, the Two Guys meticulously go through the latest solicits, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles in Previewsthat they're interested in or they think is worth considering. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on in the August catalog include: Image Comics - Blackbird#1, Dead Rabbit#1, Exorsisters#1, Juke Joint#1, Wytches: Bad Egg Halloween Special, Norroway Book 1: The Black Bull of Norroway, Men of Wrath, and Royalboiler: Brandon Graham's Drawn Out Collection Dark Horse Comics - Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion#1, Black Hammer: Age of Doom#8, and EC Archives: Vault of Horror Vol. 5 DC Comics/Vertigo - Cursed Comics Cavalcade#1, The Books of Magic#1, Lucifer#1, Hex Wives#1, and Vertigo: A Celebration of 25 Years IDW Publishing - Star Wars Adventures: Tales from Vader's Castle#1-#5, The Highest House, Mattéo Book One: 1914-1915, The Great Treasury of Christmas Comic Book Stories, Lodger#1, and Supers, Book One Dynamite Entertainment - The Lone Ranger#1, James Bond: The Body, and The Spirit: Corpse-Makers BOOM! Studios - Adventure Time Season 11#1, Sparrowhawk#1, Hex Vet: Witches in Training, I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation, and The Sons of El Topo Vol 1: Cain Abrams Comicarts - Run: Book One Adhouse - Live/Work#2 Aftershock Comics - Dead Kings#1, The Last Space Race#1, and Lollipop Kids#1 Ah Comics - Mark Twain's Niagara Book Ahoy Comics - Captain Ginger#1 and Edgar Allan Poe's Snifter of Terror#1 Animal Media Group - Queen of Kenosha Black Mask Studios - Sex Death Revolution#1 Candlewick Press - Lost Soul, Be at Peace Conundrum Press - Flem Fantagraphics Books - Kramer's Ergot 10, Love and Rockets Vol. IV#6, Fante Bukowski Three: A Perfect Failure, and The Crumb Compendium First Second - Last Pick Vol. 1, Science Comics: The Brain, On a Sunbeam, Secret Coders Vol. 6: Monsters and Modules, The Unsinkable Walker Bean and the Knights of the Waxing Moon, and The Zita the Spacegirl Trilogy Box Set Gallery 13 - To Build a Fire Graphix - The Hidden Witch Harper Collins Publishers - To Kill a Mockingbird Humanoids - My New York Marathonand Superman Isn't Jewish (But I Am Kinda) Iron Circus Comics - The Girl Who Married a Skull and Other African Stories Learner Publishing Group - Jane Austen: Her Heart Did Whisper Lion Forge - Petit, Quantum Mechanics, and Timothy Top NBM - Of Blood and Dust New York Review Comics - Piero Oni Press - Merry Men Pantheon Books - Anne Frank's Diary: The Graphic Adaptation Pegasus - The First Man: The Graphic Novel Quirk Books - The League of Regrettable Sidekicks Renegade Arts Entertainment - Frank Scribner - Belonging: A German Reckons with History and Home SelfMadeHero - Andy: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol, H.P. Lovecraft: Four Classic Horror Stories, and Wolf Silver Sprocket - Snowbirdand You Can Try Again Souring Penguin Press - Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire, Vol. 1 Triangle Square - Zenobia VIZ Media - Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection, Tokyo Ghoul Complete Box Set, Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction Vol. 3, and Ao Haru Ride Vol. 1 Yen Press - Crush Kodansha Comics - Battle Angel Alita: Holy Nights and Other Stories Seven Seas Entertainment - Wonderland Vol. 1 Vertical Comics - Pop Team Epic Vol. 1  

It's that time again! It's the beginning of the month, and the latest issue of the Previews catalog is out. And as they always do, the Two Guys meticulously go through the latest solicits, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles in Previewsthat they're interested in or they think is worth considering. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on in the August catalog include:

 

]]> 9275 no Critical Takes: A Conversation with Keith Dallas and John Wells http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/critical-takes-a-conversation-with-keith-dallas-and-john-wells Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Introduction of new Critical Takes series, and setup of interview 00:05:00 - Interview with Keith Dallas and John Wells 01:12:11 - Wrap up 01:12:47 - Contact us With this episode the Two Guys are starting a brand-new series on The Comics Alternative, one they’re calling "Critical Takes." This will be an occasion series devoted to critical and scholarly works about comics. In the past, whenever they've talked with a comics scholar or historian on the show, they’ve included those in their Interview series, one where they primarily focus on comics writers and artists. But they wanted to spin off their focus on critical works with its own series. After all, and as the show's tagline states, they’re “Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics,” so it’s only appropriate that the guys devote a series of episodes to the more theoretical, historical, and scholarly side of comics studies. Some of these shows, such as the current one, will be interviews with authors of critical texts that enlighten our understanding of the medium. Others may be general discussions or reviews of critical or scholarly texts, like the histories coming out from TwoMorrows Publishing or McFarland or the kind of scholarly works one will find through the University Press of Mississippi, Rutgers University Press, or Bloomsbury Academic. Unlike the regular monthly series, but similar to what you find with the guys' interviews, these Critical Takes episodes will be released on no set schedule, but just whenever the shows are completed and can fit into The Comics Alternative's ever-expanding offerings. And today the Derek starts off the new Critical Takes series with a conversation with Keith Dallas and John Wells. They are the authors of a new book from TwoMorrows Publishing, Comic Book Implosion: An Oral History of DC Comics Circa 1978. As the title suggests, this is an in-depth look at the events leading up to the DC Implosion of June 1978, the buildup of the Explosion that preceded it, and the effects and ramifications of the Implosion, as well as its impact on what at the time was the highly flawed distribution system. What makes this text unique is its construction. This is an oral history, and John and Keith have excerpted a variety of first-hand accounts from interviews, news stories, and fan publications of the time, stories from the insiders who personally witnessed and were even victims of the DC Implosion. These accounts are presented in such a way that they create a cohesive and compelling narrative of this moment in DC Comics history. Derek talks with Keith and John about the genesis of this project, some of the challenges they faced when doing their research, and their manner of chronicling comics history. Tue, 07 Aug 2018 13:01:24 -0000 A Conversation with Keith Dallas and John Wells full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Expansions and Implosions Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Introduction of new Critical Takes series, and setup of interview 00:05:00 - Interview with Keith Dallas and John Wells 01:12:11 - Wrap up 01:12:47 - Contact us With this episode the Two Guys are starting a brand-new series on The Comics Alternative, one they’re calling "Critical Takes." This will be an occasion series devoted to critical and scholarly works about comics. In the past, whenever they've talked with a comics scholar or historian on the show, they’ve included those in their Interview series, one where they primarily focus on comics writers and artists. But they wanted to spin off their focus on critical works with its own series. After all, and as the show's tagline states, they’re “Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics,” so it’s only appropriate that the guys devote a series of episodes to the more theoretical, historical, and scholarly side of comics studies. Some of these shows, such as the current one, will be interviews with authors of critical texts that enlighten our understanding of the medium. Others may be general discussions or reviews of critical or scholarly texts, like the histories coming out from TwoMorrows Publishing or McFarland or the kind of scholarly works one will find through the University Press of Mississippi, Rutgers University Press, or Bloomsbury Academic. Unlike the regular monthly series, but similar to what you find with the guys' interviews, these Critical Takes episodes will be released on no set schedule, but just whenever the shows are completed and can fit into The Comics Alternative's ever-expanding offerings. And today the Derek starts off the new Critical Takes series with a conversation with Keith Dallas and John Wells. They are the authors of a new book from TwoMorrows Publishing, Comic Book Implosion: An Oral History of DC Comics Circa 1978. As the title suggests, this is an in-depth look at the events leading up to the DC Implosion of June 1978, the buildup of the Explosion that preceded it, and the effects and ramifications of the Implosion, as well as its impact on what at the time was the highly flawed distribution system. What makes this text unique is its construction. This is an oral history, and John and Keith have excerpted a variety of first-hand accounts from interviews, news stories, and fan publications of the time, stories from the insiders who personally witnessed and were even victims of the DC Implosion. These accounts are presented in such a way that they create a cohesive and compelling narrative of this moment in DC Comics history. Derek talks with Keith and John about the genesis of this project, some of the challenges they faced when doing their research, and their manner of chronicling comics history. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:11 - Introduction of new Critical Takes series, and setup of interview
  • 00:05:00 - Interview with Keith Dallas and John Wells
  • 01:12:11 - Wrap up
  • 01:12:47 - Contact us

With this episode the Two Guys are starting a brand-new series on The Comics Alternative, one they’re calling "Critical Takes." This will be an occasion series devoted to critical and scholarly works about comics. In the past, whenever they've talked with a comics scholar or historian on the show, they’ve included those in their Interview series, one where they primarily focus on comics writers and artists. But they wanted to spin off their focus on critical works with its own series. After all, and as the show's tagline states, they’re “Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics,” so it’s only appropriate that the guys devote a series of episodes to the more theoretical, historical, and scholarly side of comics studies. Some of these shows, such as the current one, will be interviews with authors of critical texts that enlighten our understanding of the medium. Others may be general discussions or reviews of critical or scholarly texts, like the histories coming out from TwoMorrows Publishing or McFarland or the kind of scholarly works one will find through the University Press of Mississippi, Rutgers University Press, or Bloomsbury Academic. Unlike the regular monthly series, but similar to what you find with the guys' interviews, these Critical Takes episodes will be released on no set schedule, but just whenever the shows are completed and can fit into The Comics Alternative's ever-expanding offerings.

And today the Derek starts off the new Critical Takes series with a conversation with Keith Dallas and John Wells. They are the authors of a new book from TwoMorrows Publishing, Comic Book Implosion: An Oral History of DC Comics Circa 1978. As the title suggests, this is an in-depth look at the events leading up to the DC Implosion of June 1978, the buildup of the Explosion that preceded it, and the effects and ramifications of the Implosion, as well as its impact on what at the time was the highly flawed distribution system. What makes this text unique is its construction. This is an oral history, and John and Keith have excerpted a variety of first-hand accounts from interviews, news stories, and fan publications of the time, stories from the insiders who personally witnessed and were even victims of the DC Implosion. These accounts are presented in such a way that they create a cohesive and compelling narrative of this moment in DC Comics history. Derek talks with Keith and John about the genesis of this project, some of the challenges they faced when doing their research, and their manner of chronicling comics history.

]]> 4544 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights and Moon Face http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-hasib-and-the-queen-of-serpents-a-tale-of-a-thousand-and-one-nights-and-moon-face Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Setup 00:04:47 - Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights 00:33:52 - Moon Face 01:14:41 - Wrap up 01:15:34 - Contact us On the July episode of the Euro Comics series -- actually being released in early August -- Pascal and Derek discuss two beautiful texts. They begin with David B.'s Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights (NBM Publishing), an incredible adaptation of one of the tales in the classic work. The guys point out the attention-gragging handling of Scheherazade "Queen of Serpents" story, but what stands out in this text is David B.'s illustrations, colors, and design. The creator is able both to translate the story into comics with much fidelity and to give the tale his own spin that is recognizable to any fan of David B.'s work (Epileptic is a case in point). Next, Derek and Pascal jump into Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francois Boucq's Moon Face(Humanoids). This isn't the first time that this creative team has been discussed on the podcast, the first time being the December 2016 showwith Bouncer (and, with Boucq, his work with Jerome Charyn). The guys spend a lot of time discussing the wild ride of Jodorowsky's story -- and this as a defining characteristic throughout much of his oeuvre. It is all over the place, yet compelling. But one of the things that marks Moon Faceis Boucq's art. While readers can appreciate Jodorowsky's writing, it is Boucq who stands out, arguably as the biggest strength in this text. Mon, 06 Aug 2018 12:17:13 -0000 Reviews of Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights and Moon Face full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wild Tales Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Setup 00:04:47 - Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights 00:33:52 - Moon Face 01:14:41 - Wrap up 01:15:34 - Contact us On the July episode of the Euro Comics series -- actually being released in early August -- Pascal and Derek discuss two beautiful texts. They begin with David B.'s Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights (NBM Publishing), an incredible adaptation of one of the tales in the classic work. The guys point out the attention-gragging handling of Scheherazade "Queen of Serpents" story, but what stands out in this text is David B.'s illustrations, colors, and design. The creator is able both to translate the story into comics with much fidelity and to give the tale his own spin that is recognizable to any fan of David B.'s work (Epileptic is a case in point). Next, Derek and Pascal jump into Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francois Boucq's Moon Face(Humanoids). This isn't the first time that this creative team has been discussed on the podcast, the first time being the December 2016 showwith Bouncer (and, with Boucq, his work with Jerome Charyn). The guys spend a lot of time discussing the wild ride of Jodorowsky's story -- and this as a defining characteristic throughout much of his oeuvre. It is all over the place, yet compelling. But one of the things that marks Moon Faceis Boucq's art. While readers can appreciate Jodorowsky's writing, it is Boucq who stands out, arguably as the biggest strength in this text. Time Codes:

On the July episode of the Euro Comics series -- actually being released in early August -- Pascal and Derek discuss two beautiful texts. They begin with David B.'s Hasib and the Queen of Serpents: A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights (NBM Publishing), an incredible adaptation of one of the tales in the classic work. The guys point out the attention-gragging handling of Scheherazade "Queen of Serpents" story, but what stands out in this text is David B.'s illustrations, colors, and design. The creator is able both to translate the story into comics with much fidelity and to give the tale his own spin that is recognizable to any fan of David B.'s work (Epileptic is a case in point).

Next, Derek and Pascal jump into Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francois Boucq's Moon Face(Humanoids). This isn't the first time that this creative team has been discussed on the podcast, the first time being the December 2016 showwith Bouncer (and, with Boucq, his work with Jerome Charyn). The guys spend a lot of time discussing the wild ride of Jodorowsky's story -- and this as a defining characteristic throughout much of his oeuvre. It is all over the place, yet compelling. But one of the things that marks Moon Faceis Boucq's art. While readers can appreciate Jodorowsky's writing, it is Boucq who stands out, arguably as the biggest strength in this text.

]]> 4722 no On Location: The First August Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-first-august-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find Michael and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, in Charlotte, NC, for the first of their planned August on-location episodes. And as the Two Guys have been doing with their new format, Michael highlights recent mainstream publications and Derek focuses on more indie or non-DC and Marvel titles. Michael starts the ball rolling by discussing the recent work of Ta-Nehisi Coates, specifically his current writing on Captain America (Marvel Comics). He specifically focuses on the politics embedded in the narratives -- and not only with Cap, but in his Black Pantherwork, as well -- and how Coates is learning the form and growing as a comic-book writer. Derek discusses three recent #1 issues, including Rob Guillory's Farmhand and John Layman and Nick Pitarra's Leviathan(both from Image Comics), as well as She Could Fly, written by Christopher Cantrell and with art by Martin Morazzo (Dark Horse Comics). He links the comedy, and the outrageousness, of Guillory's and Layman's new titles, because the two made their big splash with Chew. The guys also talk about She Could Fly, not only on its own story terms, but as the latest contribution from Berger Books. Fri, 03 Aug 2018 11:12:24 -0000 The First August Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Politics and Monsters Michael and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, in Charlotte, NC, for the first of their planned August on-location episodes. And as the Two Guys have been doing with their new format, Michael highlights recent mainstream publications and Derek focuses on more indie or non-DC and Marvel titles. Michael starts the ball rolling by discussing the recent work of Ta-Nehisi Coates, specifically his current writing on Captain America (Marvel Comics). He specifically focuses on the politics embedded in the narratives -- and not only with Cap, but in his Black Pantherwork, as well -- and how Coates is learning the form and growing as a comic-book writer. Derek discusses three recent #1 issues, including Rob Guillory's Farmhand and John Layman and Nick Pitarra's Leviathan(both from Image Comics), as well as She Could Fly, written by Christopher Cantrell and with art by Martin Morazzo (Dark Horse Comics). He links the comedy, and the outrageousness, of Guillory's and Layman's new titles, because the two made their big splash with Chew. The guys also talk about She Could Fly, not only on its own story terms, but as the latest contribution from Berger Books.

Michael and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, in Charlotte, NC, for the first of their planned August on-location episodes. And as the Two Guys have been doing with their new format, Michael highlights recent mainstream publications and Derek focuses on more indie or non-DC and Marvel titles. Michael starts the ball rolling by discussing the recent work of Ta-Nehisi Coates, specifically his current writing on Captain America (Marvel Comics). He specifically focuses on the politics embedded in the narratives -- and not only with Cap, but in his Black Pantherwork, as well -- and how Coates is learning the form and growing as a comic-book writer. Derek discusses three recent #1 issues, including Rob Guillory's Farmhand and John Layman and Nick Pitarra's Leviathan(both from Image Comics), as well as She Could Fly, written by Christopher Cantrell and with art by Martin Morazzo (Dark Horse Comics). He links the comedy, and the outrageousness, of Guillory's and Layman's new titles, because the two made their big splash with Chew. The guys also talk about She Could Fly, not only on its own story terms, but as the latest contribution from Berger Books.

]]> 4040 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Conversation with Jules Feiffer http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-conversation-with-jules-feiffer Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:16 - Setup of interview 04:20 - Interview with Jules Feiffer 58:54 - Wrap up 59:26 - Contact us In 2014 Jules Feiffer published Kill My Mother (Liveright Publishing), a noir crime narrative set in 1933 -- and then later moving forward into 1943 -- involving not only hard-boiled characters, but also their exploits within the entertainment industry. Feiffer followed that up in 2016 with Cousin Joseph, the second book in what was now projected as a trilogy. That graphic novel is, in many ways, a prequel to the earlier book. Taking place in 1931, readers are introduced to police detective Sam Hannigan, a figure who looms largely over Feiffer’s recent run. His spirit is likewise prevalent in the new graphic novel, The Ghost Script. With this book, Feiffer wraps up his series, which he has called an “accidental noir trilogy.” In this interview, Derek talks with Feiffer about the “accidental” nature of his writing and how the idea for a trilogy came into play. They also discuss his writing style, where, curiously enough, Feiffer sees himself as both instigator and observer to what unfolds under his pen. Over the course of their conversation, Feiffer meditates on his love of noir fiction and films, the challenges he faced in writing this trilogy, and the overriding influences of such legends as Milton Caniff and, especially, Will Eisner. He also discusses the impact of 1950s red scare and the blacklist, which is the temporal setting of The Ghost Script, what that time meant to him as a young writer, and how those politics are not entirely alien to us today. The guys had the pleasure of talking to Feiffer back in 2014 when Kill My Mother was released, so it’s only appropriate that Derek talk with him again upon the completion of his noir trilogy. Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:54:26 -0000 An Interview with Jules Feiffer full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Accidental Noir Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:16 - Setup of interview 04:20 - Interview with Jules Feiffer 58:54 - Wrap up 59:26 - Contact us In 2014 Jules Feiffer published Kill My Mother (Liveright Publishing), a noir crime narrative set in 1933 -- and then later moving forward into 1943 -- involving not only hard-boiled characters, but also their exploits within the entertainment industry. Feiffer followed that up in 2016 with Cousin Joseph, the second book in what was now projected as a trilogy. That graphic novel is, in many ways, a prequel to the earlier book. Taking place in 1931, readers are introduced to police detective Sam Hannigan, a figure who looms largely over Feiffer’s recent run. His spirit is likewise prevalent in the new graphic novel, The Ghost Script. With this book, Feiffer wraps up his series, which he has called an “accidental noir trilogy.” In this interview, Derek talks with Feiffer about the “accidental” nature of his writing and how the idea for a trilogy came into play. They also discuss his writing style, where, curiously enough, Feiffer sees himself as both instigator and observer to what unfolds under his pen. Over the course of their conversation, Feiffer meditates on his love of noir fiction and films, the challenges he faced in writing this trilogy, and the overriding influences of such legends as Milton Caniff and, especially, Will Eisner. He also discusses the impact of 1950s red scare and the blacklist, which is the temporal setting of The Ghost Script, what that time meant to him as a young writer, and how those politics are not entirely alien to us today. The guys had the pleasure of talking to Feiffer back in 2014 when Kill My Mother was released, so it’s only appropriate that Derek talk with him again upon the completion of his noir trilogy. Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:16 - Setup of interview
  • 04:20 - Interview with Jules Feiffer
  • 58:54 - Wrap up
  • 59:26 - Contact us

In 2014 Jules Feiffer published Kill My Mother (Liveright Publishing), a noir crime narrative set in 1933 -- and then later moving forward into 1943 -- involving not only hard-boiled characters, but also their exploits within the entertainment industry. Feiffer followed that up in 2016 with Cousin Joseph, the second book in what was now projected as a trilogy. That graphic novel is, in many ways, a prequel to the earlier book. Taking place in 1931, readers are introduced to police detective Sam Hannigan, a figure who looms largely over Feiffer’s recent run. His spirit is likewise prevalent in the new graphic novel, The Ghost Script. With this book, Feiffer wraps up his series, which he has called an “accidental noir trilogy.” In this interview, Derek talks with Feiffer about the “accidental” nature of his writing and how the idea for a trilogy came into play. They also discuss his writing style, where, curiously enough, Feiffer sees himself as both instigator and observer to what unfolds under his pen. Over the course of their conversation, Feiffer meditates on his love of noir fiction and films, the challenges he faced in writing this trilogy, and the overriding influences of such legends as Milton Caniff and, especially, Will Eisner. He also discusses the impact of 1950s red scare and the blacklist, which is the temporal setting of The Ghost Script, what that time meant to him as a young writer, and how those politics are not entirely alien to us today. The guys had the pleasure of talking to Feiffer back in 2014 when Kill My Mother was released, so it’s only appropriate that Derek talk with him again upon the completion of his noir trilogy.

]]> 3735 no Episode 288: Reviews of Five Recent #1 Issues http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-288-reviews-of-five-recent-1-issues Time Codes: 00:00:50 - Introduction 00:03:32 - It's our 6th birthday! 00:09:03 - The Seeds#1 00:36:02 - Euthanauts#1 00:54:51 - The New World#1 01:09:38 - Unnatural#1 01:24:00 - Bone Parish#1 01:40:02 - Wrap up 01:41:15 - Contact us This is a special episode of The Comics Alternative, as it's the guys' sixth anniversary! The podcast began on August 1, 2012, and Paul and Derek discuss some of the things they've done over the past six years, the number of episodes they've published, the amount of interviews they've conducted, etc. It's a celebratory time, and the Two Guys hope that listeners will join in on the celebration and chime in with some of their favorite moments from The Comics Alternative's past. After a brief discussion of the podcast's anniversary, Paul and Derek then leap into the episode's core, a discussion of five recent #1 titles. They begin with Ann Nocenti and David Aja's The Seeds, the latest in Dark Horse Comics' Berger Books imprint. The guys are fascinated by this first issue, not only with Nocenti's multi-layered storytelling, but also with Aja's signature art and design. They then look at the first issue of Tini Howard and Nick Robles's Euthanauts, part of IDW Publishing's Black Crown imprint. While they're intrigued by the series' premise, they're not entirely sure if this is a successful #1 issue. There are confusing moments and, arguably, too many unanswered questions that dampen any desire to read on before the trade. After that, Paul and Derek discuss two recent #1 titles from Image Comics. First, they look at Aleš Kot and Tradd Moore's The New World, an intriguing futuristic narrative that juggles contemporary socio-political concerns along with a Romeo and Juliet-inspired storyline. They also review the first issue of Mirka Andolfo's Unnatural, an erotic -- but tasteful -- anthropomorphic tale that was originally published in Italian and now is available as a limited series. Finally, the guys wrap up with the first issue of Cullen Bunn and Jonas Scharf's Bone Parish (BOOM! Studios). This appears to be a horror title -- after all, that's primarily what Bunn is known for -- but as Paul and Derek point out, this first issue reads more as a crime mystery than it does horror. It's an interesting premise, one that the guys are curious to see unfold. So enjoy this week's episode, and celebrate The Comics Alternative's sixth anniversary! Wed, 01 Aug 2018 11:00:31 -0000 A Discussion of Five Recent #1 Issues full 288 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Death and Zaftig Pig Girls Time Codes: 00:00:50 - Introduction 00:03:32 - It's our 6th birthday! 00:09:03 - The Seeds#1 00:36:02 - Euthanauts#1 00:54:51 - The New World#1 01:09:38 - Unnatural#1 01:24:00 - Bone Parish#1 01:40:02 - Wrap up 01:41:15 - Contact us This is a special episode of The Comics Alternative, as it's the guys' sixth anniversary! The podcast began on August 1, 2012, and Paul and Derek discuss some of the things they've done over the past six years, the number of episodes they've published, the amount of interviews they've conducted, etc. It's a celebratory time, and the Two Guys hope that listeners will join in on the celebration and chime in with some of their favorite moments from The Comics Alternative's past. After a brief discussion of the podcast's anniversary, Paul and Derek then leap into the episode's core, a discussion of five recent #1 titles. They begin with Ann Nocenti and David Aja's The Seeds, the latest in Dark Horse Comics' Berger Books imprint. The guys are fascinated by this first issue, not only with Nocenti's multi-layered storytelling, but also with Aja's signature art and design. They then look at the first issue of Tini Howard and Nick Robles's Euthanauts, part of IDW Publishing's Black Crown imprint. While they're intrigued by the series' premise, they're not entirely sure if this is a successful #1 issue. There are confusing moments and, arguably, too many unanswered questions that dampen any desire to read on before the trade. After that, Paul and Derek discuss two recent #1 titles from Image Comics. First, they look at Aleš Kot and Tradd Moore's The New World, an intriguing futuristic narrative that juggles contemporary socio-political concerns along with a Romeo and Juliet-inspired storyline. They also review the first issue of Mirka Andolfo's Unnatural, an erotic -- but tasteful -- anthropomorphic tale that was originally published in Italian and now is available as a limited series. Finally, the guys wrap up with the first issue of Cullen Bunn and Jonas Scharf's Bone Parish (BOOM! Studios). This appears to be a horror title -- after all, that's primarily what Bunn is known for -- but as Paul and Derek point out, this first issue reads more as a crime mystery than it does horror. It's an interesting premise, one that the guys are curious to see unfold. So enjoy this week's episode, and celebrate The Comics Alternative's sixth anniversary! Time Codes:

This is a special episode of The Comics Alternative, as it's the guys' sixth anniversary! The podcast began on August 1, 2012, and Paul and Derek discuss some of the things they've done over the past six years, the number of episodes they've published, the amount of interviews they've conducted, etc. It's a celebratory time, and the Two Guys hope that listeners will join in on the celebration and chime in with some of their favorite moments from The Comics Alternative's past.

After a brief discussion of the podcast's anniversary, Paul and Derek then leap into the episode's core, a discussion of five recent #1 titles. They begin with Ann Nocenti and David Aja's The Seeds, the latest in Dark Horse Comics' Berger Books imprint. The guys are fascinated by this first issue, not only with Nocenti's multi-layered storytelling, but also with Aja's signature art and design. They then look at the first issue of Tini Howard and Nick Robles's Euthanauts, part of IDW Publishing's Black Crown imprint. While they're intrigued by the series' premise, they're not entirely sure if this is a successful #1 issue. There are confusing moments and, arguably, too many unanswered questions that dampen any desire to read on before the trade.

After that, Paul and Derek discuss two recent #1 titles from Image Comics. First, they look at Aleš Kot and Tradd Moore's The New World, an intriguing futuristic narrative that juggles contemporary socio-political concerns along with a Romeo and Juliet-inspired storyline. They also review the first issue of Mirka Andolfo's Unnatural, an erotic -- but tasteful -- anthropomorphic tale that was originally published in Italian and now is available as a limited series.

Finally, the guys wrap up with the first issue of Cullen Bunn and Jonas Scharf's Bone Parish (BOOM! Studios). This appears to be a horror title -- after all, that's primarily what Bunn is known for -- but as Paul and Derek point out, this first issue reads more as a crime mystery than it does horror. It's an interesting premise, one that the guys are curious to see unfold.

So enjoy this week's episode, and celebrate The Comics Alternative's sixth anniversary!

]]> 6410 no Manga: Reviews of My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 and Grand Blue Dreaming, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-my-solo-exchange-diary-vol-1-and-grand-blue-dreaming-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Why we do the manga series 00:05:31 - My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 00:39:50 - Grand Blue Dreaming, Vol. 1 01:09:24 - Wrap up 01:10:28 - Contact us Radically Different For July, Shea and Derek discuss two works of manga that are radically different, one from the other. They begin with Nagata Kabi's My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 (Seven Seas Entertainment). This is the follow-up to her previous autobiographical work My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness, a text the guys discussed last year. Whereas the earlier work was more targeted to a particular experience, the first volume of Kabi's Solo Exchange Diary is broader in scope and chronicles a variety her life phenomena. Both Shea and Derek are fascinated by this project, especially given the diary's structure and the creator's conversations with herself. Next, the Two Guys check out the first volume of Kenji Inoue and Kimitake Yoshioka's Grand Blue Dreaming (Kodansha Comics). The premise of this series is based on a young man going off to college and expecting to have the usual college experiences. What he finds instead is a wild world of drunken and naked partying, all generated by the men of the local Diving Club. Both Derek and Shea find this title quite different from their usual reading, and they didn't expect the wildness, and the weirdness, embedded within. If you're looking for a manga about heavy drinking and naked game play, then Grand Blue Dreamingis for you. Tue, 31 Jul 2018 11:14:22 -0000 Reviews of My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 and Grand Blue Dreaming, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Radically Different Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Why we do the manga series 00:05:31 - My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 00:39:50 - Grand Blue Dreaming, Vol. 1 01:09:24 - Wrap up 01:10:28 - Contact us Radically Different For July, Shea and Derek discuss two works of manga that are radically different, one from the other. They begin with Nagata Kabi's My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 (Seven Seas Entertainment). This is the follow-up to her previous autobiographical work My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness, a text the guys discussed last year. Whereas the earlier work was more targeted to a particular experience, the first volume of Kabi's Solo Exchange Diary is broader in scope and chronicles a variety her life phenomena. Both Shea and Derek are fascinated by this project, especially given the diary's structure and the creator's conversations with herself. Next, the Two Guys check out the first volume of Kenji Inoue and Kimitake Yoshioka's Grand Blue Dreaming (Kodansha Comics). The premise of this series is based on a young man going off to college and expecting to have the usual college experiences. What he finds instead is a wild world of drunken and naked partying, all generated by the men of the local Diving Club. Both Derek and Shea find this title quite different from their usual reading, and they didn't expect the wildness, and the weirdness, embedded within. If you're looking for a manga about heavy drinking and naked game play, then Grand Blue Dreamingis for you. Time Codes:

Radically Different

For July, Shea and Derek discuss two works of manga that are radically different, one from the other. They begin with Nagata Kabi's My Solo Exchange Diary, Vol. 1 (Seven Seas Entertainment). This is the follow-up to her previous autobiographical work My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness, a text the guys discussed last year. Whereas the earlier work was more targeted to a particular experience, the first volume of Kabi's Solo Exchange Diary is broader in scope and chronicles a variety her life phenomena. Both Shea and Derek are fascinated by this project, especially given the diary's structure and the creator's conversations with herself.

Next, the Two Guys check out the first volume of Kenji Inoue and Kimitake Yoshioka's Grand Blue Dreaming (Kodansha Comics). The premise of this series is based on a young man going off to college and expecting to have the usual college experiences. What he finds instead is a wild world of drunken and naked partying, all generated by the men of the local Diving Club. Both Derek and Shea find this title quite different from their usual reading, and they didn't expect the wildness, and the weirdness, embedded within. If you're looking for a manga about heavy drinking and naked game play, then Grand Blue Dreamingis for you.

]]> 4413 no Webcomics: Reviews of Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire, Moby Dick: Back from the Deep, and Hana and the Firebird http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-daisy-blackwood-pilot-for-hire-moby-dick-back-from-the-deep-and-hana-and-the-firebird Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:13 - Almost four years! 00:07:22 - Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire 00:22:44 - Moby Dick: Back from the Deep 00:40:32 - Hana and the Firebird 00:59:41 - Wrap up 01:01:05 - Contact us For the July webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three unique titles. They begin with Ryan Howe's Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire. This is a series of short stories featuring an Indiana Jones-like figure whose job as a pilot introduces her to a variety of adventures. And many of these adventures involve supernatural elements. Next, the Two Guys look at a relatively new title, Moby Dick: Back from the Deep. This webcomic, written by Matt Schorr and with art by Joe Bilicic, is reminiscent not only of Herman Melville's classic, but also Spielberg's classic, Jaws. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with a recently completed webcomic, Katya Granger's Hana and the Firebird. This is a fantastical narrative about a community of individuals with special powers, and one resident in particular who must come to terms with her past and her current relationships. Mon, 30 Jul 2018 11:39:36 -0000 Reviews of Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire, Moby Dick: Back from the Deep, and Hana and the Firebird full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Zombie Whale? Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:13 - Almost four years! 00:07:22 - Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire 00:22:44 - Moby Dick: Back from the Deep 00:40:32 - Hana and the Firebird 00:59:41 - Wrap up 01:01:05 - Contact us For the July webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three unique titles. They begin with Ryan Howe's Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire. This is a series of short stories featuring an Indiana Jones-like figure whose job as a pilot introduces her to a variety of adventures. And many of these adventures involve supernatural elements. Next, the Two Guys look at a relatively new title, Moby Dick: Back from the Deep. This webcomic, written by Matt Schorr and with art by Joe Bilicic, is reminiscent not only of Herman Melville's classic, but also Spielberg's classic, Jaws. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with a recently completed webcomic, Katya Granger's Hana and the Firebird. This is a fantastical narrative about a community of individuals with special powers, and one resident in particular who must come to terms with her past and her current relationships. Time Codes:

For the July webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three unique titles. They begin with Ryan Howe's Daisy Blackwood: Pilot for Hire. This is a series of short stories featuring an Indiana Jones-like figure whose job as a pilot introduces her to a variety of adventures. And many of these adventures involve supernatural elements. Next, the Two Guys look at a relatively new title, Moby Dick: Back from the Deep. This webcomic, written by Matt Schorr and with art by Joe Bilicic, is reminiscent not only of Herman Melville's classic, but also Spielberg's classic, Jaws. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with a recently completed webcomic, Katya Granger's Hana and the Firebird. This is a fantastical narrative about a community of individuals with special powers, and one resident in particular who must come to terms with her past and her current relationships.

]]> 3867 no Episode 287: Reviews of Nowbrow 10: Studio Dreams, Love and Rockets Vol 4 #5, and Last Mountain #4 and #5 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-287-reviews-of-nowbrow-10-studio-dreams-love-and-rockets-vol-4-5-and-last-mountain-4-and-5 Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:03:10 - 2018 Eisner Award winners 00:10:38 - Nobrow 10: Studio Dreams 00:29:19 - Love and Rockets, Vol. 4 #5 00:54:56 - Last Mountain#4 and #5 01:14:34 - Wrap up 01:15:42 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek discuss three unique titles that help define our understanding of what comics can be. They begin with a visual anthology that is, arguably, not a comic at all. Nobrow 10:Studio Dreams(Nobrow Press) is a series of 70 gorgeous illustrations by a variety of artists -- all of whom have contributed to Nobrow publications in the past -- that reveal their ideal studio space. The styles in this volume vary widely, but each illustration is a luxurious work that invites visual lingering. After that the Two Guys turn to one of their favorites, the Hernandez brothers. The latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics) is notable in that it wraps up Jaime's ongoing storyline, "Is This How You See Me?" This narrative began back in the New Storiesvolumes, and in it Maggie and Hopey attend a Hoppers reunion that begins well, but then takes a darker turn for the two. Jaime also contributes a couple of shorter comics that revisit Maggie and Hopey in their younger days, another narrative thread we've seen in recent issues of Love and Rockets. Gilbert's contribution, "Rosy," is a long story about one of Fritz's daughters who confronts her mother's colored career and decides what it means to her. Paul and Derek wrap up the episode by looking at the two latest issues of Dakota Mcfadzean's minicomic Last Mountain. Issue #4 is a surreal look at the disturbing power of product iconography, where a little girl is terrorized by a cereal box mascot. Issue #5, "To Know You're Alive," can be read as a response to the previous issue in that it also concerns childhood and media, but from the perspective of a stay-at-home father. Unfortunately, both of these minicomic issues are sold out, but as the guys mention, listeners should definitely keep their eyes on Mcfadzean as he releases new material. Wed, 25 Jul 2018 11:23:22 -0000 Reviews of Nowbrow 10: Studio Dreams, Love and Rockets Vol 4 #5, and Last Mountain #4 and #5 full 287 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “There’s a lot of hey being thrown here” Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:03:10 - 2018 Eisner Award winners 00:10:38 - Nobrow 10: Studio Dreams 00:29:19 - Love and Rockets, Vol. 4 #5 00:54:56 - Last Mountain#4 and #5 01:14:34 - Wrap up 01:15:42 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek discuss three unique titles that help define our understanding of what comics can be. They begin with a visual anthology that is, arguably, not a comic at all. Nobrow 10:Studio Dreams(Nobrow Press) is a series of 70 gorgeous illustrations by a variety of artists -- all of whom have contributed to Nobrow publications in the past -- that reveal their ideal studio space. The styles in this volume vary widely, but each illustration is a luxurious work that invites visual lingering. After that the Two Guys turn to one of their favorites, the Hernandez brothers. The latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics) is notable in that it wraps up Jaime's ongoing storyline, "Is This How You See Me?" This narrative began back in the New Storiesvolumes, and in it Maggie and Hopey attend a Hoppers reunion that begins well, but then takes a darker turn for the two. Jaime also contributes a couple of shorter comics that revisit Maggie and Hopey in their younger days, another narrative thread we've seen in recent issues of Love and Rockets. Gilbert's contribution, "Rosy," is a long story about one of Fritz's daughters who confronts her mother's colored career and decides what it means to her. Paul and Derek wrap up the episode by looking at the two latest issues of Dakota Mcfadzean's minicomic Last Mountain. Issue #4 is a surreal look at the disturbing power of product iconography, where a little girl is terrorized by a cereal box mascot. Issue #5, "To Know You're Alive," can be read as a response to the previous issue in that it also concerns childhood and media, but from the perspective of a stay-at-home father. Unfortunately, both of these minicomic issues are sold out, but as the guys mention, listeners should definitely keep their eyes on Mcfadzean as he releases new material. Time Codes:

This week Paul and Derek discuss three unique titles that help define our understanding of what comics can be. They begin with a visual anthology that is, arguably, not a comic at all. Nobrow 10:Studio Dreams(Nobrow Press) is a series of 70 gorgeous illustrations by a variety of artists -- all of whom have contributed to Nobrow publications in the past -- that reveal their ideal studio space. The styles in this volume vary widely, but each illustration is a luxurious work that invites visual lingering.

After that the Two Guys turn to one of their favorites, the Hernandez brothers. The latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics) is notable in that it wraps up Jaime's ongoing storyline, "Is This How You See Me?" This narrative began back in the New Storiesvolumes, and in it Maggie and Hopey attend a Hoppers reunion that begins well, but then takes a darker turn for the two. Jaime also contributes a couple of shorter comics that revisit Maggie and Hopey in their younger days, another narrative thread we've seen in recent issues of Love and Rockets. Gilbert's contribution, "Rosy," is a long story about one of Fritz's daughters who confronts her mother's colored career and decides what it means to her.

Paul and Derek wrap up the episode by looking at the two latest issues of Dakota Mcfadzean's minicomic Last Mountain. Issue #4 is a surreal look at the disturbing power of product iconography, where a little girl is terrorized by a cereal box mascot. Issue #5, "To Know You're Alive," can be read as a response to the previous issue in that it also concerns childhood and media, but from the perspective of a stay-at-home father. Unfortunately, both of these minicomic issues are sold out, but as the guys mention, listeners should definitely keep their eyes on Mcfadzean as he releases new material.

]]> 4738 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Carol Tyler http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-carol-tyler Time Codes: 00:00:34 - Introduction 00:02:44 - Setup of interview 00:04:38 - Interview with Carol Tyler 01:36:12 - Wrap up 01:38:15 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gene and Derek are excited to have Carol Tyler back on the podcast. Her new book Fab4 Maniahas recently been released from Fantagraphics. It's Carol's memoir about her time growing up as a Beatles fan, covering the early years of the mop tops and especially The Beatle's presence in America. As Carol reveals, she was a devotee from the very beginning, watching the group's legendary appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, their initial tour around the United States immediately after, the media and merchandising circus surrounding it, and the almost never-ending radio presence of four lads. And everything in the book leads up to the crescendo of The Beatles' appearance at Comiskey Park on August 20, 1965, a concert that Carol excitedly attended. Fab4 Maniaalso covers the many excitements and challenges Carol faced in displaying her love of The Beatles, especially among friends and when it came to her Catholic school. In her conversation with Gene and Derek, Carol talks not only the book, but her own personal recollections growing up during that time. They talk music of the time -- where Carol disses by comparison other British groups such as Herman's Hermits, Gerry and the Pacemakers, and The Dave Clark Five-- and Carol even DJs and sings for the guys. It's definitely a memorable interview, one that Derek and Gene will not soon forget. Mon, 23 Jul 2018 11:47:27 -0000 An Interview with Carol Tyler full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Gear! Time Codes: 00:00:34 - Introduction 00:02:44 - Setup of interview 00:04:38 - Interview with Carol Tyler 01:36:12 - Wrap up 01:38:15 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gene and Derek are excited to have Carol Tyler back on the podcast. Her new book Fab4 Maniahas recently been released from Fantagraphics. It's Carol's memoir about her time growing up as a Beatles fan, covering the early years of the mop tops and especially The Beatle's presence in America. As Carol reveals, she was a devotee from the very beginning, watching the group's legendary appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, their initial tour around the United States immediately after, the media and merchandising circus surrounding it, and the almost never-ending radio presence of four lads. And everything in the book leads up to the crescendo of The Beatles' appearance at Comiskey Park on August 20, 1965, a concert that Carol excitedly attended. Fab4 Maniaalso covers the many excitements and challenges Carol faced in displaying her love of The Beatles, especially among friends and when it came to her Catholic school. In her conversation with Gene and Derek, Carol talks not only the book, but her own personal recollections growing up during that time. They talk music of the time -- where Carol disses by comparison other British groups such as Herman's Hermits, Gerry and the Pacemakers, and The Dave Clark Five-- and Carol even DJs and sings for the guys. It's definitely a memorable interview, one that Derek and Gene will not soon forget. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:34 - Introduction
  • 00:02:44 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:38 - Interview with Carol Tyler
  • 01:36:12 - Wrap up
  • 01:38:15 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Gene and Derek are excited to have Carol Tyler back on the podcast. Her new book Fab4 Maniahas recently been released from Fantagraphics. It's Carol's memoir about her time growing up as a Beatles fan, covering the early years of the mop tops and especially The Beatle's presence in America. As Carol reveals, she was a devotee from the very beginning, watching the group's legendary appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, their initial tour around the United States immediately after, the media and merchandising circus surrounding it, and the almost never-ending radio presence of four lads. And everything in the book leads up to the crescendo of The Beatles' appearance at Comiskey Park on August 20, 1965, a concert that Carol excitedly attended. Fab4 Maniaalso covers the many excitements and challenges Carol faced in displaying her love of The Beatles, especially among friends and when it came to her Catholic school.

In her conversation with Gene and Derek, Carol talks not only the book, but her own personal recollections growing up during that time. They talk music of the time -- where Carol disses by comparison other British groups such as Herman's Hermits, Gerry and the Pacemakers, and The Dave Clark Five-- and Carol even DJs and sings for the guys. It's definitely a memorable interview, one that Derek and Gene will not soon forget.

]]> 6077 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Nate Powell http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-nate-powell Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:02 - Interview with Nate Powell 01:19:33 - Wrap up 01:22:26 - Contact us Paul and Derek are pleased to have Nate Powell back on the show. This time they talk with him about his new book Come Again, just released from Top Shelf Productions. They discuss the genesis of this project, the significance of the story's setting, the unsteady balance between needs for personal isolation and the importance of community, and the narrative's forays into the fantastic. Yet they also talk about several of Nate's other works, including March, Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, and Sounds of Your Name. But what comes out over the entire course of the conversation is the kind of fun these three guys have talking together. Can't you just hear it? Thu, 19 Jul 2018 13:00:00 -0000 An Interview with Nate Powell full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Coming (Back) Again Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:02 - Interview with Nate Powell 01:19:33 - Wrap up 01:22:26 - Contact us Paul and Derek are pleased to have Nate Powell back on the show. This time they talk with him about his new book Come Again, just released from Top Shelf Productions. They discuss the genesis of this project, the significance of the story's setting, the unsteady balance between needs for personal isolation and the importance of community, and the narrative's forays into the fantastic. Yet they also talk about several of Nate's other works, including March, Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, and Sounds of Your Name. But what comes out over the entire course of the conversation is the kind of fun these three guys have talking together. Can't you just hear it? Time Codes:

  • 00:00:23 - Introduction
  • 00:02:38 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:02 - Interview with Nate Powell
  • 01:19:33 - Wrap up
  • 01:22:26 - Contact us

Paul and Derek are pleased to have Nate Powell back on the show. This time they talk with him about his new book Come Again, just released from Top Shelf Productions. They discuss the genesis of this project, the significance of the story's setting, the unsteady balance between needs for personal isolation and the importance of community, and the narrative's forays into the fantastic. Yet they also talk about several of Nate's other works, including March, Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, and Sounds of Your Name. But what comes out over the entire course of the conversation is the kind of fun these three guys have talking together. Can't you just hear it?

]]> 5135 no On Location: The First July Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-first-july-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find Michael and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for the first of two July on-location episodes. They visit the shop on Independence Day, and they use the occasion to discuss current trends and titles in the comics industry. Mike explores recent manifestations of The Avengersand Justice League, focusing on Marvel and DC through what he calls the "classic Coke" approach. His discussion takes him across the writings of Jason Aaron and Scott Snyder, and then circling back to Tom King's current work on Batmanand the recent marriage event. Looking at the non-mainstream side of comics, Derek talks about his reaction to the first two issues of Evan Dorkin and Veronica Fish's Blackwoodand the initial offering of Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer, part of Titan Comics' Hard Case Crime series. He also brings up Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boysand the recent announcement of new Perfect Editions from VIZ Media. And, it being July 4th, the Two Guys also discuss comics, politics, and the current state of the country.      Fri, 06 Jul 2018 12:10:42 -0000 The First July Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Happy 4th! Michael and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for the first of two July on-location episodes. They visit the shop on Independence Day, and they use the occasion to discuss current trends and titles in the comics industry. Mike explores recent manifestations of The Avengersand Justice League, focusing on Marvel and DC through what he calls the "classic Coke" approach. His discussion takes him across the writings of Jason Aaron and Scott Snyder, and then circling back to Tom King's current work on Batmanand the recent marriage event. Looking at the non-mainstream side of comics, Derek talks about his reaction to the first two issues of Evan Dorkin and Veronica Fish's Blackwoodand the initial offering of Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer, part of Titan Comics' Hard Case Crime series. He also brings up Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boysand the recent announcement of new Perfect Editions from VIZ Media. And, it being July 4th, the Two Guys also discuss comics, politics, and the current state of the country.     

Michael and Derek are back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for the first of two July on-location episodes. They visit the shop on Independence Day, and they use the occasion to discuss current trends and titles in the comics industry. Mike explores recent manifestations of The Avengersand Justice League, focusing on Marvel and DC through what he calls the "classic Coke" approach. His discussion takes him across the writings of Jason Aaron and Scott Snyder, and then circling back to Tom King's current work on Batmanand the recent marriage event. Looking at the non-mainstream side of comics, Derek talks about his reaction to the first two issues of Evan Dorkin and Veronica Fish's Blackwoodand the initial offering of Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer, part of Titan Comics' Hard Case Crime series. He also brings up Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boysand the recent announcement of new Perfect Editions from VIZ Media. And, it being July 4th, the Two Guys also discuss comics, politics, and the current state of the country. 

 

 

]]> 4384 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Julian Hanshaw http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-julian-hanshaw Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:18 - Setup of interview 00:03:49 - Interview with Julian Hanshaw 01:04:39 - Wrap up 01:05:08 - Contact us Many U.S. readers were introduced to Julian Hanshaw through his book Tim Ginger, released in 2015 from Top Shelf Productions, an imprint of IDW Publishing. It’s the story of man in his later years coming to terms with the decisions he’s made, including his choice to remain childless. As Julian discusses in this interview, the text was largely autobiographical in nature. And the same can said of his new book, Cloud Hotel. The story was inspired by a UFO encounter he had as a young boy and the psychological affect such an experience had on him afterwards. As Julian discloses during his conversation with Derek, Cloud Hotelis the second of what will be a trilogy of autobiographical works, beginning with Tim Ginger. But they also discuss some of his earlier works that may not be familiar to American readers, such as The Art of Phoand I’m Never Coming Back. Julian also talks about his upcoming book from SelfMadeHero, I Feel Machine, a collection of six comics stories that he edited with Kent Able, all by different creators and all focusing on how technology has transformed the way we communicate and frame our culture. Thu, 05 Jul 2018 11:39:00 -0000 An Interview with Julian Hanshaw full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Checking In Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:18 - Setup of interview 00:03:49 - Interview with Julian Hanshaw 01:04:39 - Wrap up 01:05:08 - Contact us Many U.S. readers were introduced to Julian Hanshaw through his book Tim Ginger, released in 2015 from Top Shelf Productions, an imprint of IDW Publishing. It’s the story of man in his later years coming to terms with the decisions he’s made, including his choice to remain childless. As Julian discusses in this interview, the text was largely autobiographical in nature. And the same can said of his new book, Cloud Hotel. The story was inspired by a UFO encounter he had as a young boy and the psychological affect such an experience had on him afterwards. As Julian discloses during his conversation with Derek, Cloud Hotelis the second of what will be a trilogy of autobiographical works, beginning with Tim Ginger. But they also discuss some of his earlier works that may not be familiar to American readers, such as The Art of Phoand I’m Never Coming Back. Julian also talks about his upcoming book from SelfMadeHero, I Feel Machine, a collection of six comics stories that he edited with Kent Able, all by different creators and all focusing on how technology has transformed the way we communicate and frame our culture. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:18 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:49 - Interview with Julian Hanshaw
  • 01:04:39 - Wrap up
  • 01:05:08 - Contact us

Many U.S. readers were introduced to Julian Hanshaw through his book Tim Ginger, released in 2015 from Top Shelf Productions, an imprint of IDW Publishing. It’s the story of man in his later years coming to terms with the decisions he’s made, including his choice to remain childless. As Julian discusses in this interview, the text was largely autobiographical in nature. And the same can said of his new book, Cloud Hotel. The story was inspired by a UFO encounter he had as a young boy and the psychological affect such an experience had on him afterwards. As Julian discloses during his conversation with Derek, Cloud Hotelis the second of what will be a trilogy of autobiographical works, beginning with Tim Ginger. But they also discuss some of his earlier works that may not be familiar to American readers, such as The Art of Phoand I’m Never Coming Back. Julian also talks about his upcoming book from SelfMadeHero, I Feel Machine, a collection of six comics stories that he edited with Kent Able, all by different creators and all focusing on how technology has transformed the way we communicate and frame our culture.

]]> 4079 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Conversation with Luke Healy http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-conversation-with-luke-healy Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Setup of interview 00:04:11 - Interview with Luke Healy 01:04:50 - Wrap up 01:05:30 - Contact us Luke Healy was first on The Comics Alternative at Small Press Expo in 2016, where he briefly spoke with Derek about his provocative self-published minicomic The Unofficial Cuckoo’s Nest Study Companion, which was nominated that year for an Ignatz Award. A couple of months later Luke came back on the show, this time for a long and more in-depth interview about his new book at the time, How to Survive in the North, released from Nobrow Press. And now, Luke comes back on podcast to discuss his most recent work. His brand-new book revisits some of his older writings and places them within an entirely new context. Permanent Press has just been released from Avery Hill Publishing, and it’s a mock autobiographical text that explores the world of independent comics creators and the relationship between a cartoonist and his ego. What’s more, the new book incorporates the previously self-published The Unofficial Cuckoo’s Nest Study Companion, but it does so in a way that brings a fresh perspective to the story and even underscores its experimental nature. In this interview, Derek talks with Luke Healy about the origins of Permanent Press, its highly satirical tone, and the process of looking inside of himself and pulling out a narrative that is not entirely autobiographical, but at the same time, not purely fiction. As you’ll hear, Luke is certainly one of the medium’s most meditative creators. Tue, 03 Jul 2018 12:28:10 -0000 Another Interview with Luke Healy full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Ego Boost Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Setup of interview 00:04:11 - Interview with Luke Healy 01:04:50 - Wrap up 01:05:30 - Contact us Luke Healy was first on The Comics Alternative at Small Press Expo in 2016, where he briefly spoke with Derek about his provocative self-published minicomic The Unofficial Cuckoo’s Nest Study Companion, which was nominated that year for an Ignatz Award. A couple of months later Luke came back on the show, this time for a long and more in-depth interview about his new book at the time, How to Survive in the North, released from Nobrow Press. And now, Luke comes back on podcast to discuss his most recent work. His brand-new book revisits some of his older writings and places them within an entirely new context. Permanent Press has just been released from Avery Hill Publishing, and it’s a mock autobiographical text that explores the world of independent comics creators and the relationship between a cartoonist and his ego. What’s more, the new book incorporates the previously self-published The Unofficial Cuckoo’s Nest Study Companion, but it does so in a way that brings a fresh perspective to the story and even underscores its experimental nature. In this interview, Derek talks with Luke Healy about the origins of Permanent Press, its highly satirical tone, and the process of looking inside of himself and pulling out a narrative that is not entirely autobiographical, but at the same time, not purely fiction. As you’ll hear, Luke is certainly one of the medium’s most meditative creators. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:25 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:11 - Interview with Luke Healy
  • 01:04:50 - Wrap up
  • 01:05:30 - Contact us

Luke Healy was first on The Comics Alternative at Small Press Expo in 2016, where he briefly spoke with Derek about his provocative self-published minicomic The Unofficial Cuckoo’s Nest Study Companion, which was nominated that year for an Ignatz Award. A couple of months later Luke came back on the show, this time for a long and more in-depth interview about his new book at the time, How to Survive in the North, released from Nobrow Press. And now, Luke comes back on podcast to discuss his most recent work. His brand-new book revisits some of his older writings and places them within an entirely new context. Permanent Press has just been released from Avery Hill Publishing, and it’s a mock autobiographical text that explores the world of independent comics creators and the relationship between a cartoonist and his ego. What’s more, the new book incorporates the previously self-published The Unofficial Cuckoo’s Nest Study Companion, but it does so in a way that brings a fresh perspective to the story and even underscores its experimental nature. In this interview, Derek talks with Luke Healy about the origins of Permanent Press, its highly satirical tone, and the process of looking inside of himself and pulling out a narrative that is not entirely autobiographical, but at the same time, not purely fiction. As you’ll hear, Luke is certainly one of the medium’s most meditative creators.

]]> 4101 no Manga: Reviews of Claudine and Tokyo Tarareba Girls, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-claudine-and-tokyo-tarareba-girls-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:32 - Back on schedule! 00:04:24 - Claudine 00:40:45 - Tokyo Tarareba Girls, Vol. 1 01:13:49 - Wrap up 01:15:01 - Contact us This is the June manga episode, and unlike Shea and Derek had been doing the past couple of shows, this month's manga episode actually comes out on the appropriate month...on time! And on the June show, the Two Guys discuss Riyoko Ikeda's Claudine(Seven Seas Entertainment), a shōjo narrative set in historical France. The titular figure is a trans man, feeling trapped inside of his female body. Claudine's journey takes him through several relationships, a lot of disappointments, and frustrations on not being understood. Next, Shea and Derek discuss the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's new series, Tokyo Tarareba Girls(Kodansha Comics). While the style of this josei series is similar to Princess Jellyfish, the focus is more mature -- and even more comedic -- than that of her previous series. The guys discuss both the comedy and the messaging that seems to come through the story proper, and then contrast that tone with that of the "Bonus Story" that ends this first volume.   Fri, 29 Jun 2018 16:31:18 -0000 Reviews of Claudine and Tokyo Tarareba Girls, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Back on Track! Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:32 - Back on schedule! 00:04:24 - Claudine 00:40:45 - Tokyo Tarareba Girls, Vol. 1 01:13:49 - Wrap up 01:15:01 - Contact us This is the June manga episode, and unlike Shea and Derek had been doing the past couple of shows, this month's manga episode actually comes out on the appropriate month...on time! And on the June show, the Two Guys discuss Riyoko Ikeda's Claudine(Seven Seas Entertainment), a shōjo narrative set in historical France. The titular figure is a trans man, feeling trapped inside of his female body. Claudine's journey takes him through several relationships, a lot of disappointments, and frustrations on not being understood. Next, Shea and Derek discuss the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's new series, Tokyo Tarareba Girls(Kodansha Comics). While the style of this josei series is similar to Princess Jellyfish, the focus is more mature -- and even more comedic -- than that of her previous series. The guys discuss both the comedy and the messaging that seems to come through the story proper, and then contrast that tone with that of the "Bonus Story" that ends this first volume.   Time Codes:

This is the June manga episode, and unlike Shea and Derek had been doing the past couple of shows, this month's manga episode actually comes out on the appropriate month...on time! And on the June show, the Two Guys discuss Riyoko Ikeda's Claudine(Seven Seas Entertainment), a shōjo narrative set in historical France. The titular figure is a trans man, feeling trapped inside of his female body. Claudine's journey takes him through several relationships, a lot of disappointments, and frustrations on not being understood. Next, Shea and Derek discuss the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's new series, Tokyo Tarareba Girls(Kodansha Comics). While the style of this josei series is similar to Princess Jellyfish, the focus is more mature -- and even more comedic -- than that of her previous series. The guys discuss both the comedy and the messaging that seems to come through the story proper, and then contrast that tone with that of the "Bonus Story" that ends this first volume.

 

]]> 4684 no Euro Comics: Reviews of A Strange and Beautiful Sound and Inside Moebius, Part 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-a-strange-and-beautiful-sound-and-inside-moebius-part-2 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup 00:04:06 - A Strange and Beautiful Sound 00:39:45 - Inside Moebius, Part 2 01:19:19 - Wrap up 01:21:02 - Contact us On this month's Euro Comics episode, Pascal and Derek discuss two recent French-language translations. They begin with Zep's A Strange and Beautiful Sound, the second of his books released through IDW Publishing. This is a story of a Carthusian monk who, because of a dead relative's last will and testament, reenters the everyday world after 26 years of seclusion. The art and colors of this narrative are quite striking, and while the subject matter is significantly different from his previous A Story of Men, both Pascal and Derek find a common style between these two texts. Next, they check out the latest work in Dark Horse's Moebius Library, Inside Moebius, Part 2. The guys begin by contextualizing the first part of this improvisational journal, released earlier this year, and then go into detail about Part 2. This second book is much more metafiction and self-referential than Part 1, but like the first installment, it includes multiple representations of the author himself, along with encounters with his most notable creations, Arzach, Major Grubert and Malvina, Stel and Atan, and of course Lieutenant Blueberry. The text is free-flowing and surreal, but this is what makes Moebius's self-investigation so notable. Both guys eagerly await the third and final part of Inside Moebiuslater this fall. Thu, 28 Jun 2018 12:17:52 -0000 Reviews of A Strange and Beautiful Sound and Inside Moebius, Part 2 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Strange and Beautiful Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup 00:04:06 - A Strange and Beautiful Sound 00:39:45 - Inside Moebius, Part 2 01:19:19 - Wrap up 01:21:02 - Contact us On this month's Euro Comics episode, Pascal and Derek discuss two recent French-language translations. They begin with Zep's A Strange and Beautiful Sound, the second of his books released through IDW Publishing. This is a story of a Carthusian monk who, because of a dead relative's last will and testament, reenters the everyday world after 26 years of seclusion. The art and colors of this narrative are quite striking, and while the subject matter is significantly different from his previous A Story of Men, both Pascal and Derek find a common style between these two texts. Next, they check out the latest work in Dark Horse's Moebius Library, Inside Moebius, Part 2. The guys begin by contextualizing the first part of this improvisational journal, released earlier this year, and then go into detail about Part 2. This second book is much more metafiction and self-referential than Part 1, but like the first installment, it includes multiple representations of the author himself, along with encounters with his most notable creations, Arzach, Major Grubert and Malvina, Stel and Atan, and of course Lieutenant Blueberry. The text is free-flowing and surreal, but this is what makes Moebius's self-investigation so notable. Both guys eagerly await the third and final part of Inside Moebiuslater this fall. Time Codes:

On this month's Euro Comics episode, Pascal and Derek discuss two recent French-language translations. They begin with Zep's A Strange and Beautiful Sound, the second of his books released through IDW Publishing. This is a story of a Carthusian monk who, because of a dead relative's last will and testament, reenters the everyday world after 26 years of seclusion. The art and colors of this narrative are quite striking, and while the subject matter is significantly different from his previous A Story of Men, both Pascal and Derek find a common style between these two texts.

Next, they check out the latest work in Dark Horse's Moebius Library, Inside Moebius, Part 2. The guys begin by contextualizing the first part of this improvisational journal, released earlier this year, and then go into detail about Part 2. This second book is much more metafiction and self-referential than Part 1, but like the first installment, it includes multiple representations of the author himself, along with encounters with his most notable creations, Arzach, Major Grubert and Malvina, Stel and Atan, and of course Lieutenant Blueberry. The text is free-flowing and surreal, but this is what makes Moebius's self-investigation so notable. Both guys eagerly await the third and final part of Inside Moebiuslater this fall.

]]> 5042 no Episode 285: Another Publisher Spotlight on Koyama Press http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-285-another-publisher-spotlight-on-koyama-press Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Media attention! 00:05:16 - XTC69 00:27:16 - Soft X-Ray/Mindhunters 00:48:16 - A Western World 01:07:00 - The Ideal Copy 01:16:21 - Winter's Cosmos 01:30:43 - Somnambulance 01:51:28 - Wrap up 01:54:48 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another publisher spotlight, this one focusing on the spring releases from Koyama Press. (In fact, this is the third spotlight on Koyama, with the guys having previously discusses their seasonal releases in April 2015and May 2017.) All of these books debuted at TCAF last month, and Paul and Derek indulge in exciting discussions of these six new releases. They begin with Jessica Campbell's XTC69, a wild science fiction narrative about gender relations and female empowerment. It serves as a great companion piece to her earlier Koyama book, Hot or Not: 20th-Century Male Artists. After that they discuss the largely wordless text, Soft X-Ray/Mindhunters. As with his previous work, Mighty Star and the Castle of Cancatervater, A. Degen challenges the boundaries of storytelling, and Paul and Derek have fun attempting to decipher the text. And it says something that, compared with the work of A. Degen, Michael DeForge's latest book A Western World is understandable and more "traditional." This is a collection of various DeForge stories, some of them previously published in his Loseseries, and it would serve as a great introduction to the creator's style. Next, they focus on the latest installment of Ben Sears's Double+ world, The Ideal Copy. Following 2016's Night Air and last year's Volcano Trash, this book has Plus Man and Hank out of work as treasure hunters and having to take temporary jobs as caterers...and while doing so inadvertently discovering adventure. Perhaps the most abstract and narratively challenging work of the bunch, Michael Comeau's Winter's Cosmos, is a curious mix of media, photography and illustration. Its the offbeat story of two space travelers on a mission, each with varying degrees of seriousness and dedication. Paul and Derek wrap up their Koyama Press spotlight with a discussion of Fiona Smyth's Somnambulance. This is the longest text of the bunch, and it's a fascinating retrospective of Smyth's comics from the 1980s to present day. For those unfamiliar with this creator's comics, Somnambulanceis the perfect overview. Wed, 27 Jun 2018 12:14:12 -0000 Another Publisher Spotlight on Koyama Press full 285 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It's compelling, but I'm not sure why I'm so compelled" Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Media attention! 00:05:16 - XTC69 00:27:16 - Soft X-Ray/Mindhunters 00:48:16 - A Western World 01:07:00 - The Ideal Copy 01:16:21 - Winter's Cosmos 01:30:43 - Somnambulance 01:51:28 - Wrap up 01:54:48 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another publisher spotlight, this one focusing on the spring releases from Koyama Press. (In fact, this is the third spotlight on Koyama, with the guys having previously discusses their seasonal releases in April 2015and May 2017.) All of these books debuted at TCAF last month, and Paul and Derek indulge in exciting discussions of these six new releases. They begin with Jessica Campbell's XTC69, a wild science fiction narrative about gender relations and female empowerment. It serves as a great companion piece to her earlier Koyama book, Hot or Not: 20th-Century Male Artists. After that they discuss the largely wordless text, Soft X-Ray/Mindhunters. As with his previous work, Mighty Star and the Castle of Cancatervater, A. Degen challenges the boundaries of storytelling, and Paul and Derek have fun attempting to decipher the text. And it says something that, compared with the work of A. Degen, Michael DeForge's latest book A Western World is understandable and more "traditional." This is a collection of various DeForge stories, some of them previously published in his Loseseries, and it would serve as a great introduction to the creator's style. Next, they focus on the latest installment of Ben Sears's Double+ world, The Ideal Copy. Following 2016's Night Air and last year's Volcano Trash, this book has Plus Man and Hank out of work as treasure hunters and having to take temporary jobs as caterers...and while doing so inadvertently discovering adventure. Perhaps the most abstract and narratively challenging work of the bunch, Michael Comeau's Winter's Cosmos, is a curious mix of media, photography and illustration. Its the offbeat story of two space travelers on a mission, each with varying degrees of seriousness and dedication. Paul and Derek wrap up their Koyama Press spotlight with a discussion of Fiona Smyth's Somnambulance. This is the longest text of the bunch, and it's a fascinating retrospective of Smyth's comics from the 1980s to present day. For those unfamiliar with this creator's comics, Somnambulanceis the perfect overview. Time Codes:

The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another publisher spotlight, this one focusing on the spring releases from Koyama Press. (In fact, this is the third spotlight on Koyama, with the guys having previously discusses their seasonal releases in April 2015and May 2017.) All of these books debuted at TCAF last month, and Paul and Derek indulge in exciting discussions of these six new releases.

They begin with Jessica Campbell's XTC69, a wild science fiction narrative about gender relations and female empowerment. It serves as a great companion piece to her earlier Koyama book, Hot or Not: 20th-Century Male Artists. After that they discuss the largely wordless text, Soft X-Ray/Mindhunters. As with his previous work, Mighty Star and the Castle of Cancatervater, A. Degen challenges the boundaries of storytelling, and Paul and Derek have fun attempting to decipher the text. And it says something that, compared with the work of A. Degen, Michael DeForge's latest book A Western World is understandable and more "traditional." This is a collection of various DeForge stories, some of them previously published in his Loseseries, and it would serve as a great introduction to the creator's style.

Next, they focus on the latest installment of Ben Sears's Double+ world, The Ideal Copy. Following 2016's Night Air and last year's Volcano Trash, this book has Plus Man and Hank out of work as treasure hunters and having to take temporary jobs as caterers...and while doing so inadvertently discovering adventure. Perhaps the most abstract and narratively challenging work of the bunch, Michael Comeau's Winter's Cosmos, is a curious mix of media, photography and illustration. Its the offbeat story of two space travelers on a mission, each with varying degrees of seriousness and dedication. Paul and Derek wrap up their Koyama Press spotlight with a discussion of Fiona Smyth's Somnambulance. This is the longest text of the bunch, and it's a fascinating retrospective of Smyth's comics from the 1980s to present day. For those unfamiliar with this creator's comics, Somnambulanceis the perfect overview.

]]> 7082 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Sean Karemaker http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-sean-karemaker Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:23 - Setup of interview 00:04:03 - Interview with Sean Karemaker 01:04:51 - Wrap up 01:05:23 - Contact us Sean Karemaker’s comics are a different kind of reading experience. He illustrates in a highly detailed textured style, and his stories flow in a dreamlike manner, free from the constrictions of sequential paneling. In fact, he creates many of his comics in a scroll-like manner, writing out his narratives across a broad horizontal field, and then later deciding how to break up his illustrations across pages. The result, as we find in his latest book Feast of Fields (Conundrum Press), is story whose unveiling reflects the process of memory, a sort of streaming of experience with a zig-zagging quality between past and present.  In this interview with Sean, Derek talks with his guest about this style of cartooning and especially the genesis of his latest book. It’s largely the story of his mother during her time in a Danish orphanage, but Sean contextualizes her narrative by placing it within his own life experiences and revealing what his mother’s past has meant to him. Derek also talks with Sean about his previous book from Conundrum, The Ghosts We Know, a collection of short pieces that are largely autobiographical in nature and provide a wonderful introduction to Karemaker’s style of comics storytelling. Tue, 26 Jun 2018 12:13:45 -0000 An Interview with Sean Karemaker full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Panoramic View Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:23 - Setup of interview 00:04:03 - Interview with Sean Karemaker 01:04:51 - Wrap up 01:05:23 - Contact us Sean Karemaker’s comics are a different kind of reading experience. He illustrates in a highly detailed textured style, and his stories flow in a dreamlike manner, free from the constrictions of sequential paneling. In fact, he creates many of his comics in a scroll-like manner, writing out his narratives across a broad horizontal field, and then later deciding how to break up his illustrations across pages. The result, as we find in his latest book Feast of Fields (Conundrum Press), is story whose unveiling reflects the process of memory, a sort of streaming of experience with a zig-zagging quality between past and present.  In this interview with Sean, Derek talks with his guest about this style of cartooning and especially the genesis of his latest book. It’s largely the story of his mother during her time in a Danish orphanage, but Sean contextualizes her narrative by placing it within his own life experiences and revealing what his mother’s past has meant to him. Derek also talks with Sean about his previous book from Conundrum, The Ghosts We Know, a collection of short pieces that are largely autobiographical in nature and provide a wonderful introduction to Karemaker’s style of comics storytelling. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:23 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:03 - Interview with Sean Karemaker
  • 01:04:51 - Wrap up
  • 01:05:23 - Contact us

Sean Karemaker’s comics are a different kind of reading experience. He illustrates in a highly detailed textured style, and his stories flow in a dreamlike manner, free from the constrictions of sequential paneling. In fact, he creates many of his comics in a scroll-like manner, writing out his narratives across a broad horizontal field, and then later deciding how to break up his illustrations across pages. The result, as we find in his latest book Feast of Fields (Conundrum Press), is story whose unveiling reflects the process of memory, a sort of streaming of experience with a zig-zagging quality between past and present.  In this interview with Sean, Derek talks with his guest about this style of cartooning and especially the genesis of his latest book. It’s largely the story of his mother during her time in a Danish orphanage, but Sean contextualizes her narrative by placing it within his own life experiences and revealing what his mother’s past has meant to him. Derek also talks with Sean about his previous book from Conundrum, The Ghosts We Know, a collection of short pieces that are largely autobiographical in nature and provide a wonderful introduction to Karemaker’s style of comics storytelling.

]]> 4093 no On Location: The June Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-june-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find It's another on-location recording at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. But with this episode the podcast is doing something different. The on-location show will be going up twice monthly -- schedules permitting -- and joining Derek on these Heroes shows will be Michael Kobre, another guy with a PhD talking about comics. On their on-location shows, Mike and Derek will discuss very recent comics, those being released in the week or two before the recording, that have caught their attention. Mike will primarily focus on the DC and Marvel mainstream titles, while Derek will concentrate on non-mainstream, or alternative and indie, comics. And, of course, they will invite customers and employees of the shop to join in on the conversation. On this episode, Mike discusses the work of Tom King, including the recent deluxe edition of The Sheriff of Babylon, his work on Marvel's Vision, and his run on Batman. Derek comments on recent issues from Image Comics -- specifically Farel Dalrymple's Proxima Centauri#1, Jody LeHeup and Nathan Fox's The Weatherman #1, and Joseph Keatinge and Bret Blevins's Stellar#1-- as well as the minicomics he recently discovered from Natalie Andrewson. Stay tuned, because Mike and Derek will be back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in a couple of weeks! Alonzo Cunningham, Zyg Furmaniuk, and Michael Kobre Alonzo Cunningham and Zyg Furmaniuk     Mon, 25 Jun 2018 01:45:21 -0000 The June On-Location Episode at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal New Format! It's another on-location recording at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. But with this episode the podcast is doing something different. The on-location show will be going up twice monthly -- schedules permitting -- and joining Derek on these Heroes shows will be Michael Kobre, another guy with a PhD talking about comics. On their on-location shows, Mike and Derek will discuss very recent comics, those being released in the week or two before the recording, that have caught their attention. Mike will primarily focus on the DC and Marvel mainstream titles, while Derek will concentrate on non-mainstream, or alternative and indie, comics. And, of course, they will invite customers and employees of the shop to join in on the conversation. On this episode, Mike discusses the work of Tom King, including the recent deluxe edition of The Sheriff of Babylon, his work on Marvel's Vision, and his run on Batman. Derek comments on recent issues from Image Comics -- specifically Farel Dalrymple's Proxima Centauri#1, Jody LeHeup and Nathan Fox's The Weatherman #1, and Joseph Keatinge and Bret Blevins's Stellar#1-- as well as the minicomics he recently discovered from Natalie Andrewson. Stay tuned, because Mike and Derek will be back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in a couple of weeks! Alonzo Cunningham, Zyg Furmaniuk, and Michael Kobre Alonzo Cunningham and Zyg Furmaniuk    

It's another on-location recording at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. But with this episode the podcast is doing something different. The on-location show will be going up twice monthly -- schedules permitting -- and joining Derek on these Heroes shows will be Michael Kobre, another guy with a PhD talking about comics. On their on-location shows, Mike and Derek will discuss very recent comics, those being released in the week or two before the recording, that have caught their attention. Mike will primarily focus on the DC and Marvel mainstream titles, while Derek will concentrate on non-mainstream, or alternative and indie, comics. And, of course, they will invite customers and employees of the shop to join in on the conversation.

On this episode, Mike discusses the work of Tom King, including the recent deluxe edition of The Sheriff of Babylon, his work on Marvel's Vision, and his run on Batman. Derek comments on recent issues from Image Comics -- specifically Farel Dalrymple's Proxima Centauri#1, Jody LeHeup and Nathan Fox's The Weatherman #1, and Joseph Keatinge and Bret Blevins's Stellar#1-- as well as the minicomics he recently discovered from Natalie Andrewson.

Stay tuned, because Mike and Derek will be back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in a couple of weeks!

Alonzo Cunningham, Zyg Furmaniuk, and Michael Kobre

Alonzo Cunningham and Zyg Furmaniuk

 

 

]]> 4385 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Erin Nations http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-erin-nations Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:16 - Setup of interview 03:40 - Interview with Erin Nations 51:50 - Wrap up 52:14 - Contact us In December of 2016, Top Shelf Productions published the first issue of Erin Nations’s Gumballs, the one of four issuesthat would be released over the course of the following year. This quarterly ran as a one-personal anthology, a collection of stories and observations, many of which were autobiographical in nature. Gumballsstood out among its peers in that it recalled the kind of comic books we used to get from other alternative creators such as Seth, Daniel Clowes, and Chris Ware. Now those creators have turned to the “graphic novel” or book form, and it’s a rarity that we get a comic book like this, making Gumballsstand out as a title of note. Now those four issues have been collected as a trade, one that has just been made available in the direct market and next week will be out for wider release.  In this interview, Derek talks with Erin Nations about the genesis of his Gumballsseries, his thoughts on being an autobiographical cartoonist, how he uses comics to chronicle his transitioning, and the various tones he strikes among the many stories contained within his series. Fri, 22 Jun 2018 12:34:40 -0000 An Interview with Erin Nations full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Illustrating the Self Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:16 - Setup of interview 03:40 - Interview with Erin Nations 51:50 - Wrap up 52:14 - Contact us In December of 2016, Top Shelf Productions published the first issue of Erin Nations’s Gumballs, the one of four issuesthat would be released over the course of the following year. This quarterly ran as a one-personal anthology, a collection of stories and observations, many of which were autobiographical in nature. Gumballsstood out among its peers in that it recalled the kind of comic books we used to get from other alternative creators such as Seth, Daniel Clowes, and Chris Ware. Now those creators have turned to the “graphic novel” or book form, and it’s a rarity that we get a comic book like this, making Gumballsstand out as a title of note. Now those four issues have been collected as a trade, one that has just been made available in the direct market and next week will be out for wider release.  In this interview, Derek talks with Erin Nations about the genesis of his Gumballsseries, his thoughts on being an autobiographical cartoonist, how he uses comics to chronicle his transitioning, and the various tones he strikes among the many stories contained within his series. Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:16 - Setup of interview
  • 03:40 - Interview with Erin Nations
  • 51:50 - Wrap up
  • 52:14 - Contact us

In December of 2016, Top Shelf Productions published the first issue of Erin Nations’s Gumballs, the one of four issuesthat would be released over the course of the following year. This quarterly ran as a one-personal anthology, a collection of stories and observations, many of which were autobiographical in nature. Gumballsstood out among its peers in that it recalled the kind of comic books we used to get from other alternative creators such as Seth, Daniel Clowes, and Chris Ware. Now those creators have turned to the “graphic novel” or book form, and it’s a rarity that we get a comic book like this, making Gumballsstand out as a title of note. Now those four issues have been collected as a trade, one that has just been made available in the direct market and next week will be out for wider release.  In this interview, Derek talks with Erin Nations about the genesis of his Gumballsseries, his thoughts on being an autobiographical cartoonist, how he uses comics to chronicle his transitioning, and the various tones he strikes among the many stories contained within his series.

]]> 3305 no On Location: HeroesCon 2018, the "How to Read Nancy" Panel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-heroescon-2018-the-how-to-read-nancy-panel Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:17 - Panel context 00:04:01 - "How to Read Nancy" panel 01:04:50 - Wrap up 01:05:19 - Contact us "Draw, you varmint" This past weekend was HeroesCon 2018, and while there Derek was a part of two different scholarly panels. One was about the relationship between print and digital comics texts, “Between Pen and Pixel,” a recording of which was released earlier this week. The second was a panel based on the book by Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden, How to Read Nancy: The Elements of Comics in Three Easy Panels. Andy Mansell, who oversees the programming every year at HeroesCon, wanted to pull together a panel of scholars to discuss the significance of How to Read Nancy and its potential place in the classroom and in scholarship. In addition, he wanted the panelists to discuss other important books about comics, comics history, and formal aspects of the medium. Other panelists included the former cohost of The Comics Alternative, Andy Kunka, Craig Fischer, Jennie Law, and the new cohost for the podcast's bi-monthly on-location episodes, Michael Kobre. The resulting panel, “How to Read Nancyand Other Indispensable Books about Comics,” is part of the ongoing series of panels that Andy Mansell organizes every year, which he calls the “Comics Canon.” A big thanks to Andy Mansell, not only for pulling together this panel, but for all of the hard he does every year in overseeing the programming at HeroesCon.   Thu, 21 Jun 2018 11:01:17 -0000 The "How to Read Nancy" Panel at HeroesCon 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Draw, you varmint" Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:17 - Panel context 00:04:01 - "How to Read Nancy" panel 01:04:50 - Wrap up 01:05:19 - Contact us "Draw, you varmint" This past weekend was HeroesCon 2018, and while there Derek was a part of two different scholarly panels. One was about the relationship between print and digital comics texts, “Between Pen and Pixel,” a recording of which was released earlier this week. The second was a panel based on the book by Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden, How to Read Nancy: The Elements of Comics in Three Easy Panels. Andy Mansell, who oversees the programming every year at HeroesCon, wanted to pull together a panel of scholars to discuss the significance of How to Read Nancy and its potential place in the classroom and in scholarship. In addition, he wanted the panelists to discuss other important books about comics, comics history, and formal aspects of the medium. Other panelists included the former cohost of The Comics Alternative, Andy Kunka, Craig Fischer, Jennie Law, and the new cohost for the podcast's bi-monthly on-location episodes, Michael Kobre. The resulting panel, “How to Read Nancyand Other Indispensable Books about Comics,” is part of the ongoing series of panels that Andy Mansell organizes every year, which he calls the “Comics Canon.” A big thanks to Andy Mansell, not only for pulling together this panel, but for all of the hard he does every year in overseeing the programming at HeroesCon.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:17 - Panel context
  • 00:04:01 - "How to Read Nancy" panel
  • 01:04:50 - Wrap up
  • 01:05:19 - Contact us

"Draw, you varmint"

This past weekend was HeroesCon 2018, and while there Derek was a part of two different scholarly panels. One was about the relationship between print and digital comics texts, “Between Pen and Pixel,” a recording of which was released earlier this week. The second was a panel based on the book by Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden, How to Read Nancy: The Elements of Comics in Three Easy Panels. Andy Mansell, who oversees the programming every year at HeroesCon, wanted to pull together a panel of scholars to discuss the significance of How to Read Nancy and its potential place in the classroom and in scholarship. In addition, he wanted the panelists to discuss other important books about comics, comics history, and formal aspects of the medium. Other panelists included the former cohost of The Comics Alternative, Andy Kunka, Craig Fischer, Jennie Law, and the new cohost for the podcast's bi-monthly on-location episodes, Michael Kobre. The resulting panel, “How to Read Nancyand Other Indispensable Books about Comics,” is part of the ongoing series of panels that Andy Mansell organizes every year, which he calls the “Comics Canon.”

A big thanks to Andy Mansell, not only for pulling together this panel, but for all of the hard he does every year in overseeing the programming at HeroesCon.

 

]]> 4090 no Episode 284: Reviews of The Escapist Omnibi http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-284-reviews-of-the-escapist-omnibi Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Listener mail! 00:05:44 - Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Amazing Adventuresand Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills 01:10:37 - Wrap up 01:11:16 - Contact us This week, Pascal (of the Euro Comics series) joins Derek on the weekly review show to discuss the two omnibi collections of The Escapist from Dark Horse Books. They look at both Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Amazing Adventures (which was released this past February) as well as the latest collection, Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills, published in wide release this week. The two guys discuss the faux history that Chabon and a variety of writers and artists have created, wedging this narrative into our recognizable comic-book history. They're not able to discuss all of the selections in these two collections -- between both volumes, there are almost 50 Escapist stories, some never before published -- but they focus on many of the pieces that stand out to them. Among the Escapists stories they cover are those by such notable creators as Will Eisner, Eduardo Barreto, Jeffrey Brown, Howard Chaykin, Paul Gulacy, Jeff Parker, Marv Wolfman, Thomas Yeates, Brian K. Vaughan, Kyle Baker, Gene Colan, Matt Kindt, Kevin McCarthy, Bill Sienkiewicz, Jim Starlin, among many others. Wed, 20 Jun 2018 11:34:39 -0000 Reviews of The Escapist Omnibi full 284 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Faux Histories Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Listener mail! 00:05:44 - Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Amazing Adventuresand Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills 01:10:37 - Wrap up 01:11:16 - Contact us This week, Pascal (of the Euro Comics series) joins Derek on the weekly review show to discuss the two omnibi collections of The Escapist from Dark Horse Books. They look at both Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Amazing Adventures (which was released this past February) as well as the latest collection, Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills, published in wide release this week. The two guys discuss the faux history that Chabon and a variety of writers and artists have created, wedging this narrative into our recognizable comic-book history. They're not able to discuss all of the selections in these two collections -- between both volumes, there are almost 50 Escapist stories, some never before published -- but they focus on many of the pieces that stand out to them. Among the Escapists stories they cover are those by such notable creators as Will Eisner, Eduardo Barreto, Jeffrey Brown, Howard Chaykin, Paul Gulacy, Jeff Parker, Marv Wolfman, Thomas Yeates, Brian K. Vaughan, Kyle Baker, Gene Colan, Matt Kindt, Kevin McCarthy, Bill Sienkiewicz, Jim Starlin, among many others. Time Codes:

This week, Pascal (of the Euro Comics series) joins Derek on the weekly review show to discuss the two omnibi collections of The Escapist from Dark Horse Books. They look at both Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Amazing Adventures (which was released this past February) as well as the latest collection, Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills, published in wide release this week. The two guys discuss the faux history that Chabon and a variety of writers and artists have created, wedging this narrative into our recognizable comic-book history. They're not able to discuss all of the selections in these two collections -- between both volumes, there are almost 50 Escapist stories, some never before published -- but they focus on many of the pieces that stand out to them. Among the Escapists stories they cover are those by such notable creators as Will Eisner, Eduardo Barreto, Jeffrey Brown, Howard Chaykin, Paul Gulacy, Jeff Parker, Marv Wolfman, Thomas Yeates, Brian K. Vaughan, Kyle Baker, Gene Colan, Matt Kindt, Kevin McCarthy, Bill Sienkiewicz, Jim Starlin, among many others.

]]> 4459 no On Location: HeroesCon 2018, the "Between Pen and Pixel" Panel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-heroescon-2018-the-between-pen-and-pixel-panel Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:27 - Aaron Kashtan provides context 00:07:11 - "Between Pen and Pixel" panel 01:08:58 - Wrap up 01:09:55 - Contact us This past weekend at HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek was on a panel based on a recent book by Aaron Kashtan, Between Pen and Pixel: Comics, Materiality, and the Book of the Future (Ohio State University Press). Aaron pulled together several comics scholars -- in addition to Derek, his former cohost, Andy Kunka, and Craig Fischer -- along with Matt Kindt, whose work Aaron sites extensively in his book. This episode is a recording of that panel, which explored what comics can tell us about the future of the printed word (as well as the digital text), the book industry, and comics as an art object. Stay tuned over the next week for more HeroesCon episodes!   Tue, 19 Jun 2018 12:04:45 -0000 The "Between Pen and Pixel" Panel at HeroesCon 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Dead Print? Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:27 - Aaron Kashtan provides context 00:07:11 - "Between Pen and Pixel" panel 01:08:58 - Wrap up 01:09:55 - Contact us This past weekend at HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek was on a panel based on a recent book by Aaron Kashtan, Between Pen and Pixel: Comics, Materiality, and the Book of the Future (Ohio State University Press). Aaron pulled together several comics scholars -- in addition to Derek, his former cohost, Andy Kunka, and Craig Fischer -- along with Matt Kindt, whose work Aaron sites extensively in his book. This episode is a recording of that panel, which explored what comics can tell us about the future of the printed word (as well as the digital text), the book industry, and comics as an art object. Stay tuned over the next week for more HeroesCon episodes!   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:27 - Aaron Kashtan provides context
  • 00:07:11 - "Between Pen and Pixel" panel
  • 01:08:58 - Wrap up
  • 01:09:55 - Contact us

This past weekend at HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek was on a panel based on a recent book by Aaron Kashtan, Between Pen and Pixel: Comics, Materiality, and the Book of the Future (Ohio State University Press). Aaron pulled together several comics scholars -- in addition to Derek, his former cohost, Andy Kunka, and Craig Fischer -- along with Matt Kindt, whose work Aaron sites extensively in his book. This episode is a recording of that panel, which explored what comics can tell us about the future of the printed word (as well as the digital text), the book industry, and comics as an art object.

Stay tuned over the next week for more HeroesCon episodes!

 

]]> 4367 no On Location: Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2018 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-heroescon-2018 Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Setup of episode 00:03:16 - Rich Tommaso 00:13:31 - Steve Conley 00:18:55 - Milton Lawson 00:27:11 - Naomi Franquiz 00:31:53 - Dave Chisholm 00:41:45 - James F. Wrightand Jackie Crofts 00:49:57 - Scott Wegener 00:58:57 - Natalie Andrewson 01:09:08 - Michael Eury 01:17:05 - Wrap up 01:17:43 - Contact us This past weekend was HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC. It was a great convention, organized by the folks at Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find. And as Derek likes to do every year, this past weekend he walked around Artists Alley talking with various creators about what they’re doing, what they’ve recently published, and what they may have in the works. The result is a series of short interviews with various creators, some of whom have been on The Comics Alternativebefore, others that Derek met for the very first time.  In this episode are brief conversations with, in order, Rich Tommaso, Steve Conley, Milton Lawson, Naomi Franquiz, Dave Chisholm, James F. Wrightand Jackie Crofts, Scott Wegener, Natalie Andrewson, and Michael Eury. Stay tuned over the next week for moreHeroesCon episodes!     Mon, 18 Jun 2018 12:55:18 -0000 Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Straight from Artists Alley Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Setup of episode 00:03:16 - Rich Tommaso 00:13:31 - Steve Conley 00:18:55 - Milton Lawson 00:27:11 - Naomi Franquiz 00:31:53 - Dave Chisholm 00:41:45 - James F. Wrightand Jackie Crofts 00:49:57 - Scott Wegener 00:58:57 - Natalie Andrewson 01:09:08 - Michael Eury 01:17:05 - Wrap up 01:17:43 - Contact us This past weekend was HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC. It was a great convention, organized by the folks at Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find. And as Derek likes to do every year, this past weekend he walked around Artists Alley talking with various creators about what they’re doing, what they’ve recently published, and what they may have in the works. The result is a series of short interviews with various creators, some of whom have been on The Comics Alternativebefore, others that Derek met for the very first time.  In this episode are brief conversations with, in order, Rich Tommaso, Steve Conley, Milton Lawson, Naomi Franquiz, Dave Chisholm, James F. Wrightand Jackie Crofts, Scott Wegener, Natalie Andrewson, and Michael Eury. Stay tuned over the next week for moreHeroesCon episodes!     Time Codes:

This past weekend was HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC. It was a great convention, organized by the folks at Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find. And as Derek likes to do every year, this past weekend he walked around Artists Alley talking with various creators about what they’re doing, what they’ve recently published, and what they may have in the works. The result is a series of short interviews with various creators, some of whom have been on The Comics Alternativebefore, others that Derek met for the very first time.  In this episode are brief conversations with, in order, Rich Tommaso, Steve Conley, Milton Lawson, Naomi Franquiz, Dave Chisholm, James F. Wrightand Jackie Crofts, Scott Wegener, Natalie Andrewson, and Michael Eury.

Stay tuned over the next week for moreHeroesCon episodes!

 

 

]]> 4835 no Webcomics: Reviews of Adamant, Scurry, and The Phoenix Requiem http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-adamant-scurry-and-the-phoenix-requiem Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:05:33 - Adamant 00:35:54 - Scurry 01:00:58 - The Phoenix Requiem 01:26:04 - Wrap up 01:26:55 - Contact us This month Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics. They begin with Mike Exner III, Ian Waryanto, et al.'s Adamant, a superhero narrative that spins the genre in fascinating, and parodic, ways. After that they turn to a beautifully rendered tale, Mac Smith's Scurry. While the story is solid, the guys point out that the art is this webcomic's biggest draw. Finally, they discuss the already-completed webcomic, Sarah Ellerton's The Phoenix Requiem. This is a Victorian-inspired supernatural narrative of love and mystery that, as both Sean and Derek point out, is quite substantive. Fri, 15 Jun 2018 10:53:44 -0000 Reviews of the Webcomics Adamant, Scurry, and The Phoenix Requiem full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It is a big-ass story" Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:05:33 - Adamant 00:35:54 - Scurry 01:00:58 - The Phoenix Requiem 01:26:04 - Wrap up 01:26:55 - Contact us This month Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics. They begin with Mike Exner III, Ian Waryanto, et al.'s Adamant, a superhero narrative that spins the genre in fascinating, and parodic, ways. After that they turn to a beautifully rendered tale, Mac Smith's Scurry. While the story is solid, the guys point out that the art is this webcomic's biggest draw. Finally, they discuss the already-completed webcomic, Sarah Ellerton's The Phoenix Requiem. This is a Victorian-inspired supernatural narrative of love and mystery that, as both Sean and Derek point out, is quite substantive. Time Codes:

This month Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics. They begin with Mike Exner III, Ian Waryanto, et al.'s Adamant, a superhero narrative that spins the genre in fascinating, and parodic, ways. After that they turn to a beautifully rendered tale, Mac Smith's Scurry. While the story is solid, the guys point out that the art is this webcomic's biggest draw. Finally, they discuss the already-completed webcomic, Sarah Ellerton's The Phoenix Requiem. This is a Victorian-inspired supernatural narrative of love and mystery that, as both Sean and Derek point out, is quite substantive.

]]> 5425 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Max de Radiguès http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-max-de-radigus Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Max de Radiguès 01:01:11 - Wrap up 01:01:47 - Contact us Arthur Fellig, better known as Weegee, was a street photographer for New York's popular press during the 1930s and 1940s. He worked primarily in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, and he developed a signature style that captured a gritty, unflinching view of urban life. What’s more, he was, famous, or rather infamous, for adjusting his tableau, in particular the position of dead bodies at crime scenes, in order to capture an image that was to his liking. Max de Radiguès, along with his co-creator Wauter Mannaert, has decided to take on this historical figure as the subject matter of his latest book, Weegee: Serial Photographer. In this interview, Derek talks with Max about his fascination over Weegee, the origins of this project, and the challenges of writing such a condensed graphic biography.  But we also cover Max’s previous work, Moose, and what we might expect from his upcoming book, Bastard, being released this fall from Fantagraphics. Thu, 14 Jun 2018 12:14:01 -0000 An Interview with Max de Radiguès full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal In the Camera Eye Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Max de Radiguès 01:01:11 - Wrap up 01:01:47 - Contact us Arthur Fellig, better known as Weegee, was a street photographer for New York's popular press during the 1930s and 1940s. He worked primarily in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, and he developed a signature style that captured a gritty, unflinching view of urban life. What’s more, he was, famous, or rather infamous, for adjusting his tableau, in particular the position of dead bodies at crime scenes, in order to capture an image that was to his liking. Max de Radiguès, along with his co-creator Wauter Mannaert, has decided to take on this historical figure as the subject matter of his latest book, Weegee: Serial Photographer. In this interview, Derek talks with Max about his fascination over Weegee, the origins of this project, and the challenges of writing such a condensed graphic biography.  But we also cover Max’s previous work, Moose, and what we might expect from his upcoming book, Bastard, being released this fall from Fantagraphics. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:26 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:56 - Interview with Max de Radiguès
  • 01:01:11 - Wrap up
  • 01:01:47 - Contact us

Arthur Fellig, better known as Weegee, was a street photographer for New York's popular press during the 1930s and 1940s. He worked primarily in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, and he developed a signature style that captured a gritty, unflinching view of urban life. What’s more, he was, famous, or rather infamous, for adjusting his tableau, in particular the position of dead bodies at crime scenes, in order to capture an image that was to his liking. Max de Radiguès, along with his co-creator Wauter Mannaert, has decided to take on this historical figure as the subject matter of his latest book, Weegee: Serial Photographer. In this interview, Derek talks with Max about his fascination over Weegee, the origins of this project, and the challenges of writing such a condensed graphic biography.  But we also cover Max’s previous work, Moose, and what we might expect from his upcoming book, Bastard, being released this fall from Fantagraphics.

]]> 3691 no Episode 283: The June Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-283-the-june-previews-catalog Paul and Derek are back with another look at the latest Previews catalog. And for the month of June, they find a variety of fascinating title...and several of which they even resist mention on mic, in the interests of keeping the show containable and relatively short. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on are: Image Comics - Leviathan #1, Perdy, Vol. 1, Crowded#1, Hey Kids! Comics!#1, and Lil' Donnie, Vol. 1 Dark Horse Comics - The Seeds#1, Black Hammer Library Edition, Vol. 1, Inside Moebius, Part 3, The Complete Angel Catbird, The EC Archives: The Haunt of Fear, Vol. 5, Beasts of Burden: Wise Dogs and Eldritch, Conspiracy of Ravens, and Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - The Sandman Universe#1, Pearl#1, Scarlet#1, and The United States of Murder Inc., Vol. 1: Truth IDW Publishing - House Amok#1, Femme Magnifique: 50 Magnificent Women Who Changed the World, James Brown: Black and Proud, and Girl Town BOOM! Studios - Lumberjanes: The Infernal Compassand Black Badge#1 Abrams ComicArts - Undocumented: A Worker's Fight Adhouse - Viewotron#1 Aftershock Comics - Hot Lunch Special#1 Albatross Funnybooks - Hillbilly: Red-Eyed Witchery from Beyond#1 Dial Books - Monster Mayhem Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin: The Complete Edition, Bad Friends, and Woman World Fantagraphics Books - Dementia 21, Roly Poly, Penguins, Three Sisters: The Love and Rockets Library, Vol. 14, Tongues#1, and The Fang, Vol. 1 First Second - Delilah Dirk and the Pillars of Hercules, Idle Days, and Science Comics: Trees Humanoids - Victor and Clint Lerner Publications Group - Life on Earth, Vol. 1: Losing the Girl Lion Forge - Sheetsand Love Letters to Jane's World Metropolitan Books - The Arab of the Future, Vol. 3: 1985-1987 Oni Press - Aquicorn Coveand Banana Sunday Silver Sprocket - Be Your Own Backing Band Titan Comics - The Prague Coupand Emma G. Wildford VIZ Media - That Blue Sky Feeling, Vol. 1   Wed, 13 Jun 2018 12:13:07 -0000 A Look at the June Previews Catalog full 283 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Derek's Design Gripe Paul and Derek are back with another look at the latest Previews catalog. And for the month of June, they find a variety of fascinating title...and several of which they even resist mention on mic, in the interests of keeping the show containable and relatively short. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on are: Image Comics - Leviathan #1, Perdy, Vol. 1, Crowded#1, Hey Kids! Comics!#1, and Lil' Donnie, Vol. 1 Dark Horse Comics - The Seeds#1, Black Hammer Library Edition, Vol. 1, Inside Moebius, Part 3, The Complete Angel Catbird, The EC Archives: The Haunt of Fear, Vol. 5, Beasts of Burden: Wise Dogs and Eldritch, Conspiracy of Ravens, and Mob Psycho 100, Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - The Sandman Universe#1, Pearl#1, Scarlet#1, and The United States of Murder Inc., Vol. 1: Truth IDW Publishing - House Amok#1, Femme Magnifique: 50 Magnificent Women Who Changed the World, James Brown: Black and Proud, and Girl Town BOOM! Studios - Lumberjanes: The Infernal Compassand Black Badge#1 Abrams ComicArts - Undocumented: A Worker's Fight Adhouse - Viewotron#1 Aftershock Comics - Hot Lunch Special#1 Albatross Funnybooks - Hillbilly: Red-Eyed Witchery from Beyond#1 Dial Books - Monster Mayhem Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin: The Complete Edition, Bad Friends, and Woman World Fantagraphics Books - Dementia 21, Roly Poly, Penguins, Three Sisters: The Love and Rockets Library, Vol. 14, Tongues#1, and The Fang, Vol. 1 First Second - Delilah Dirk and the Pillars of Hercules, Idle Days, and Science Comics: Trees Humanoids - Victor and Clint Lerner Publications Group - Life on Earth, Vol. 1: Losing the Girl Lion Forge - Sheetsand Love Letters to Jane's World Metropolitan Books - The Arab of the Future, Vol. 3: 1985-1987 Oni Press - Aquicorn Coveand Banana Sunday Silver Sprocket - Be Your Own Backing Band Titan Comics - The Prague Coupand Emma G. Wildford VIZ Media - That Blue Sky Feeling, Vol. 1  

Paul and Derek are back with another look at the latest Previews catalog. And for the month of June, they find a variety of fascinating title...and several of which they even resist mention on mic, in the interests of keeping the show containable and relatively short. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on are:

 

]]> 5932 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Dean Haspiel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-dean-haspiel Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:55 - Setup of interview 00:04:07 - Interview with Dean Haspiel 01:09:43 - Wrap up 01:11:07 - Contact us Welcome to New Brooklyn Gene and Derek are happy to have Dean Haspiel on The Comics Alternativeto discuss his new book from Image Comics, The Red Hook, Vol. 1: New Brooklyn. This is the first in a planned trilogy introducing readers to his universe of New Brooklyn. The Red Hook is a reluctant hero. Once a super-thief, his unlikely encounter with the legendary superhero, The Green Point, bequeathes unto him The Omni-Fist of Altruism. This transform him into a hero, where he cannot resist helping others in distress, despite his better judgment. In this role, The Red Hook becomes a major player in New Brooklyn, a borough whose heart had been broken by commerce and real estate speculation, and, as a result, secedes from New York, and America. Sound unlikely? Well, listen to Dean as he explains the premise and his plans for future New Brooklyn narratives. The guys talk with Dean, asking him a variety of questions not only about his new book, but about his other publications, as well. But then Dean turns the tables and begins interviewing Gene and Derek. It's a wild experience with an indefatigable Haspiel. Tue, 12 Jun 2018 13:44:50 -0000 An Interview with Dean Haspiel full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Welcome to New Brooklyn Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:55 - Setup of interview 00:04:07 - Interview with Dean Haspiel 01:09:43 - Wrap up 01:11:07 - Contact us Welcome to New Brooklyn Gene and Derek are happy to have Dean Haspiel on The Comics Alternativeto discuss his new book from Image Comics, The Red Hook, Vol. 1: New Brooklyn. This is the first in a planned trilogy introducing readers to his universe of New Brooklyn. The Red Hook is a reluctant hero. Once a super-thief, his unlikely encounter with the legendary superhero, The Green Point, bequeathes unto him The Omni-Fist of Altruism. This transform him into a hero, where he cannot resist helping others in distress, despite his better judgment. In this role, The Red Hook becomes a major player in New Brooklyn, a borough whose heart had been broken by commerce and real estate speculation, and, as a result, secedes from New York, and America. Sound unlikely? Well, listen to Dean as he explains the premise and his plans for future New Brooklyn narratives. The guys talk with Dean, asking him a variety of questions not only about his new book, but about his other publications, as well. But then Dean turns the tables and begins interviewing Gene and Derek. It's a wild experience with an indefatigable Haspiel. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:55 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:07 - Interview with Dean Haspiel
  • 01:09:43 - Wrap up
  • 01:11:07 - Contact us

Welcome to New Brooklyn

Gene and Derek are happy to have Dean Haspiel on The Comics Alternativeto discuss his new book from Image Comics, The Red Hook, Vol. 1: New Brooklyn. This is the first in a planned trilogy introducing readers to his universe of New Brooklyn. The Red Hook is a reluctant hero. Once a super-thief, his unlikely encounter with the legendary superhero, The Green Point, bequeathes unto him The Omni-Fist of Altruism. This transform him into a hero, where he cannot resist helping others in distress, despite his better judgment. In this role, The Red Hook becomes a major player in New Brooklyn, a borough whose heart had been broken by commerce and real estate speculation, and, as a result, secedes from New York, and America. Sound unlikely? Well, listen to Dean as he explains the premise and his plans for future New Brooklyn narratives. The guys talk with Dean, asking him a variety of questions not only about his new book, but about his other publications, as well. But then Dean turns the tables and begins interviewing Gene and Derek. It's a wild experience with an indefatigable Haspiel.

]]> 4476 yes Manga: Reviews of Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction, Vol. 1, The Troublemakers, and Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-dead-dead-demons-de-de-de-de-destruction-vol-1-the-troublemakers-and-wotakoi-love-is-hard-for-otaku-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Broken promises 00:04:09 - Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction, Vol. 1 01:01:16 - The Troublemakers 01:58:46 - Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1 02:20:52 - Wrap up 02:22:11 - Contact us Fully Loaded On the last episodein The Comics Alternative's monthly manga series -- a show that was supposed to be the May episode, but was actually a late April show -- Shea and Derek promised that they would provide an additional manga episode at the very end of May, and that thatshow would be the realMay show. As reality unfolded, the two guys had problems in coordinating their schedules and being available at the same time. And as a result, you get this episode. But it's an extra-long episode, one that includes discussions of not two but three recent manga releases. They begin with the first volume in a the latest series from one of their favorites, Inio Asano. Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction (VIZ Media) is an unusual work that, in many ways, reminds the guys of Goodnight Punpun they reviewed in March 2016, a title that they especially loved. And they appreciate this new work at least as much. This new book begins as a realistic narrative of Tokyo schoolgirls and their everyday interactions at school. Soon, though, the reader discover that this is not a normal environment, but one where the city is, literally, living under the shadow of a giant mysterious spaceship that visited them three years previously. Next they turn to a notable new release from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, Baron Yoshimoto's The Troublemakers. Translated and edited by Ryan Holmberg, this is a collection of six short works of gekiga that vary in narrative approach, theme, and (to a lesser degree) style. All of these pieces were originally released between 1966 and 1974, and in a variety of publications. The volume ends with a magnificent essay, providing history and context, by the book's editor. This book marks the first translation of Yoshimoto's into English. The guys conclude with a completely different kind of book, Fujita's Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1(Kodansha Comics). The title is a series of episodes -- think of a sitcom -- of a small group of young workers, all of whom are otaku (those with obsessive interests in very specific, especially fan-based, media and culture) and interact in everyday scenarios, at work and otherwise. The guys aren't near as enthusiastic about this work as they are with the others reviewed in this episode. However, Derek is more open to Wotakoithan Shea. In fact, Shea even wonders if the emphases in this series may not even be counterproductive, if not harmful, to consumer health. Mon, 11 Jun 2018 22:17:27 -0000 Reviews of Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction, Vol. 1, The Troublemakers, and Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fully Loaded Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Broken promises 00:04:09 - Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction, Vol. 1 01:01:16 - The Troublemakers 01:58:46 - Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1 02:20:52 - Wrap up 02:22:11 - Contact us Fully Loaded On the last episodein The Comics Alternative's monthly manga series -- a show that was supposed to be the May episode, but was actually a late April show -- Shea and Derek promised that they would provide an additional manga episode at the very end of May, and that thatshow would be the realMay show. As reality unfolded, the two guys had problems in coordinating their schedules and being available at the same time. And as a result, you get this episode. But it's an extra-long episode, one that includes discussions of not two but three recent manga releases. They begin with the first volume in a the latest series from one of their favorites, Inio Asano. Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction (VIZ Media) is an unusual work that, in many ways, reminds the guys of Goodnight Punpun they reviewed in March 2016, a title that they especially loved. And they appreciate this new work at least as much. This new book begins as a realistic narrative of Tokyo schoolgirls and their everyday interactions at school. Soon, though, the reader discover that this is not a normal environment, but one where the city is, literally, living under the shadow of a giant mysterious spaceship that visited them three years previously. Next they turn to a notable new release from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, Baron Yoshimoto's The Troublemakers. Translated and edited by Ryan Holmberg, this is a collection of six short works of gekiga that vary in narrative approach, theme, and (to a lesser degree) style. All of these pieces were originally released between 1966 and 1974, and in a variety of publications. The volume ends with a magnificent essay, providing history and context, by the book's editor. This book marks the first translation of Yoshimoto's into English. The guys conclude with a completely different kind of book, Fujita's Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1(Kodansha Comics). The title is a series of episodes -- think of a sitcom -- of a small group of young workers, all of whom are otaku (those with obsessive interests in very specific, especially fan-based, media and culture) and interact in everyday scenarios, at work and otherwise. The guys aren't near as enthusiastic about this work as they are with the others reviewed in this episode. However, Derek is more open to Wotakoithan Shea. In fact, Shea even wonders if the emphases in this series may not even be counterproductive, if not harmful, to consumer health. Time Codes:

Fully Loaded

On the last episodein The Comics Alternative's monthly manga series -- a show that was supposed to be the May episode, but was actually a late April show -- Shea and Derek promised that they would provide an additional manga episode at the very end of May, and that thatshow would be the realMay show. As reality unfolded, the two guys had problems in coordinating their schedules and being available at the same time. And as a result, you get this episode. But it's an extra-long episode, one that includes discussions of not two but three recent manga releases.

They begin with the first volume in a the latest series from one of their favorites, Inio Asano. Dead Dead Demon's De De De De Destruction (VIZ Media) is an unusual work that, in many ways, reminds the guys of Goodnight Punpun they reviewed in March 2016, a title that they especially loved. And they appreciate this new work at least as much. This new book begins as a realistic narrative of Tokyo schoolgirls and their everyday interactions at school. Soon, though, the reader discover that this is not a normal environment, but one where the city is, literally, living under the shadow of a giant mysterious spaceship that visited them three years previously.

Next they turn to a notable new release from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, Baron Yoshimoto's The Troublemakers. Translated and edited by Ryan Holmberg, this is a collection of six short works of gekiga that vary in narrative approach, theme, and (to a lesser degree) style. All of these pieces were originally released between 1966 and 1974, and in a variety of publications. The volume ends with a magnificent essay, providing history and context, by the book's editor. This book marks the first translation of Yoshimoto's into English.

The guys conclude with a completely different kind of book, Fujita's Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku, Vol. 1(Kodansha Comics). The title is a series of episodes -- think of a sitcom -- of a small group of young workers, all of whom are otaku (those with obsessive interests in very specific, especially fan-based, media and culture) and interact in everyday scenarios, at work and otherwise. The guys aren't near as enthusiastic about this work as they are with the others reviewed in this episode. However, Derek is more open to Wotakoithan Shea. In fact, Shea even wonders if the emphases in this series may not even be counterproductive, if not harmful, to consumer health.

]]> 8724 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Conversation with Karl Stevens http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-conversation-with-karl-stevens Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:03:31 - Interview with Karl Stevens 01:03:39 - Wrap up 01:04:05 - Contact us A Pope Cat and A Floating Gandhi Head Derek first talked to Karl Stevensin February of last year, and during that discussion he had mentioned that he was working on a new project for Retrofit/Big Planet called The Winner, and now we have the book out, being released on May 23. The two discuss Karl's new work, its very autobiographical quality -- no masking any identities here -- and it’s curious structure and fantastical interludes. But they also talk about Karls others works, as well, including the Xeric Award-winning Guilty(2004), his series of books that followed, all published by Alternative Comics -- Whatever(2008), The Lodger(2010), and Failure (2013)-- as well as his Pennystrips that ran in the Village Voicebetween November 2016 and March 2017. Karl is wonderful guy to interview, as you’ll hear from the conversation. Fri, 08 Jun 2018 17:00:00 -0000 An interview with Karl Stevens about his new book The Winner. full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Pope Cat and A Floating Gandhi Head Time Codes: 00:00:23 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:03:31 - Interview with Karl Stevens 01:03:39 - Wrap up 01:04:05 - Contact us A Pope Cat and A Floating Gandhi Head Derek first talked to Karl Stevensin February of last year, and during that discussion he had mentioned that he was working on a new project for Retrofit/Big Planet called The Winner, and now we have the book out, being released on May 23. The two discuss Karl's new work, its very autobiographical quality -- no masking any identities here -- and it’s curious structure and fantastical interludes. But they also talk about Karls others works, as well, including the Xeric Award-winning Guilty(2004), his series of books that followed, all published by Alternative Comics -- Whatever(2008), The Lodger(2010), and Failure (2013)-- as well as his Pennystrips that ran in the Village Voicebetween November 2016 and March 2017. Karl is wonderful guy to interview, as you’ll hear from the conversation. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:23 - Introduction
  • 00:02:22 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:31 - Interview with Karl Stevens
  • 01:03:39 - Wrap up
  • 01:04:05 - Contact us

A Pope Cat and A Floating Gandhi Head

Derek first talked to Karl Stevensin February of last year, and during that discussion he had mentioned that he was working on a new project for Retrofit/Big Planet called The Winner, and now we have the book out, being released on May 23. The two discuss Karl's new work, its very autobiographical quality -- no masking any identities here -- and it’s curious structure and fantastical interludes. But they also talk about Karls others works, as well, including the Xeric Award-winning Guilty(2004), his series of books that followed, all published by Alternative Comics -- Whatever(2008), The Lodger(2010), and Failure (2013)-- as well as his Pennystrips that ran in the Village Voicebetween November 2016 and March 2017. Karl is wonderful guy to interview, as you’ll hear from the conversation.

]]> 4018 no Episode 282: Reviews of Sabrina, The Unsound, and The Last Siege #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-281-sabrina-the-unsound-and-the-last-siege-1 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:26 - Updates 00:7:14 - Sabrina 00:59:00 - The Unsound 01:25:22 - The Last Siege#1 01:43:32 - Wrap up 01:44:57 - Contact us "We're not about the cool factor. We're about the cool analysis" On this episode podcast, Paul and Derek discuss Nick Drnaso's Sabrinba, Cullen Bunn and Jack T. Cole's The Unsound, and Landry Q. Walker and Justin Greenwood The Last Siege#1. Their conversation his great! Although be warned, there may a couple of spoilers on this show...or least semi-spoilers. Wed, 06 Jun 2018 13:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Sabrina, The Unsound, and The Last Siege #1 full 282 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "We're not about the cool factor. We're about the cool analysis" Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:26 - Updates 00:7:14 - Sabrina 00:59:00 - The Unsound 01:25:22 - The Last Siege#1 01:43:32 - Wrap up 01:44:57 - Contact us "We're not about the cool factor. We're about the cool analysis" On this episode podcast, Paul and Derek discuss Nick Drnaso's Sabrinba, Cullen Bunn and Jack T. Cole's The Unsound, and Landry Q. Walker and Justin Greenwood The Last Siege#1. Their conversation his great! Although be warned, there may a couple of spoilers on this show...or least semi-spoilers. Time Codes:

"We're not about the cool factor. We're about the cool analysis"

On this episode podcast, Paul and Derek discuss Nick Drnaso's Sabrinba, Cullen Bunn and Jack T. Cole's The Unsound, and Landry Q. Walker and Justin Greenwood The Last Siege#1.

Their conversation his great! Although be warned, there may a couple of spoilers on this show...or least semi-spoilers.

]]> 6489 no Young Readers: A Discussion of the Nominees for the 2018 Eisner Awards for the Early Readers, Kids, and Teens Categories http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-a-discussion-of-the-nominees-for-the-2018-eisner-awards-for-the-early-readers-kids-and-teens-categories Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:03:19 - Setup of the discussion 00:05:04 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Early Readers category  00:51:47 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Kids category 01:31:45 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Teens category 02:20:32 - Wrap up 02:26:03 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers Show, Gwen and Paul detail the three categories of the Eisner Awards that focus on children and teens: Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) Adele in Sand Land, by Claude Ponti, translated by Skeeter Grant and Françoise Mouly (Toon Books) Arthur and the Golden Rope, by Joe Todd-Stanton (Flying Eye/Nobrow) Egg, by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow Books) Good Night, Planet, by Liniers (Toon Books) Little Tails in the Savannah, by Frederic Brrémaud and Federico Bertolucci, translated by Mike Kennedy (Lion Forge/Magnetic) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9–12) Bolivar, by Sean Rubin (Archaia) Home Time (Book One): Under the River, by Campbell Whyte (Top Shelf) Nightlights, by Lorena Alvarez (Nobrow) The Tea Dragon Society, by Katie O’Neill (Oni) Wallace the Brave, by Will Henry (Andrews McMeel) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) The Dam Keeper, by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi (First Second/Tonko House) Jane, by Aline Brosh McKenna and Ramón K. Pérez (Archaia) Louis Undercover, by Fanny Britt and Isabelle Arsenault, translated by Christelle Morelli and Susan Ouriou (Groundwood Books/House of Anansi) Monstress, by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image) Spinning, by Tillie Walden (First Second) In addition to reviewing each nominated text, the duo refers listeners to The Comics Alternativearchives for the shows that reference these nominees: Good Night, Planet by Liniers; Nightlights by Lorena Alvarez; The Dam Keeper by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi; and Monstress by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda. Paul and Gwen use this episode to launch a general discussion of age designations and categorization of children’s and YA comics, and they reference the art of Bolivian painter and lithographer Graciela Rodo Boulanger, whose depiction of children resembles that found in Campbell Whyte’s Home Time. So, won’t you pour yourself a chilly beverage, kick back, and give a listen to the two PhDs -- more on Paul’s recent doctoral graduation from University of California-Berkeley will appear in the June podcast -- for a rundown of this year’s Eisner nominees. Mon, 28 May 2018 19:38:43 -0000 A Discussion of the Nominees for the 2018 Eisner Awards for the Early Readers, Kids, and Teens Categories full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Putting on the Evening Gown and Tuxedo Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:03:19 - Setup of the discussion 00:05:04 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Early Readers category  00:51:47 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Kids category 01:31:45 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Teens category 02:20:32 - Wrap up 02:26:03 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers Show, Gwen and Paul detail the three categories of the Eisner Awards that focus on children and teens: Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) Adele in Sand Land, by Claude Ponti, translated by Skeeter Grant and Françoise Mouly (Toon Books) Arthur and the Golden Rope, by Joe Todd-Stanton (Flying Eye/Nobrow) Egg, by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow Books) Good Night, Planet, by Liniers (Toon Books) Little Tails in the Savannah, by Frederic Brrémaud and Federico Bertolucci, translated by Mike Kennedy (Lion Forge/Magnetic) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9–12) Bolivar, by Sean Rubin (Archaia) Home Time (Book One): Under the River, by Campbell Whyte (Top Shelf) Nightlights, by Lorena Alvarez (Nobrow) The Tea Dragon Society, by Katie O’Neill (Oni) Wallace the Brave, by Will Henry (Andrews McMeel) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) The Dam Keeper, by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi (First Second/Tonko House) Jane, by Aline Brosh McKenna and Ramón K. Pérez (Archaia) Louis Undercover, by Fanny Britt and Isabelle Arsenault, translated by Christelle Morelli and Susan Ouriou (Groundwood Books/House of Anansi) Monstress, by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image) Spinning, by Tillie Walden (First Second) In addition to reviewing each nominated text, the duo refers listeners to The Comics Alternativearchives for the shows that reference these nominees: Good Night, Planet by Liniers; Nightlights by Lorena Alvarez; The Dam Keeper by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi; and Monstress by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda. Paul and Gwen use this episode to launch a general discussion of age designations and categorization of children’s and YA comics, and they reference the art of Bolivian painter and lithographer Graciela Rodo Boulanger, whose depiction of children resembles that found in Campbell Whyte’s Home Time. So, won’t you pour yourself a chilly beverage, kick back, and give a listen to the two PhDs -- more on Paul’s recent doctoral graduation from University of California-Berkeley will appear in the June podcast -- for a rundown of this year’s Eisner nominees. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:31 - Introduction
  • 00:03:19 - Setup of the discussion
  • 00:05:04 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Early Readers category 
  • 00:51:47 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Kids category
  • 01:31:45 - Nominees in the Best Publication for Teens category
  • 02:20:32 - Wrap up
  • 02:26:03 - Contact us

On this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers Show, Gwen and Paul detail the three categories of the Eisner Awards that focus on children and teens:

Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8)

Best Publication for Kids (ages 9–12)

Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17)

  • The Dam Keeper, by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi (First Second/Tonko House)
  • Jane, by Aline Brosh McKenna and Ramón K. Pérez (Archaia)
  • Louis Undercover, by Fanny Britt and Isabelle Arsenault, translated by Christelle Morelli and Susan Ouriou (Groundwood Books/House of Anansi)
  • Monstress, by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image)
  • Spinning, by Tillie Walden (First Second)

In addition to reviewing each nominated text, the duo refers listeners to The Comics Alternativearchives for the shows that reference these nominees: Good Night, Planet by Liniers; Nightlights by Lorena Alvarez; The Dam Keeper by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi; and Monstress by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda.

Paul and Gwen use this episode to launch a general discussion of age designations and categorization of children’s and YA comics, and they reference the art of Bolivian painter and lithographer Graciela Rodo Boulanger, whose depiction of children resembles that found in Campbell Whyte’s Home Time. So, won’t you pour yourself a chilly beverage, kick back, and give a listen to the two PhDs -- more on Paul’s recent doctoral graduation from University of California-Berkeley will appear in the June podcast -- for a rundown of this year’s Eisner nominees.

]]> 8979 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Madness in Crowds: The Teeming Mind of Harrison Cady http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-madness-in-crowds-the-teeming-mind-of-harrison-cady On the current Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with comics legend Denis Kitchen about Madness in Crowds: The Teeming Mind of Harrison Cady, the latest campaign from Beehive Books, in association with Denis. Madness in Crowdswill be a large-format hardcover art book -- a towering 10" x 14" and with 176+ pages-- collecting the works of the definitive early 20th-century illustrator and cartoonist Harrison Cady (1877–1970). So, who was Harrison Cady? As Denis and company describes the artist: Over the course of a 70 year professional career, he created countless overflowing worlds, bustling with life and energy and detail and chaos. His illustrations were generous, abundant, warm and humane. There was never another artist like him. He specialized in frenzied crowd scenes, in which each tiny character came armed with their own distinct personality and a sense of humor that projected off the page. He especially loved animals and insects, spawning and exploring vast eco-systems of creeping crawlers with human affectations: beetle ballerinas, ladybugs in spats and umbrellas, fiddle-playing mosquitos. A committed political progressive, Cady frequently made cartoons about women's suffrage, injustice and the exploitation of the working classes. In his long and productive career, he laid an endless array of visual feasts out for the eyes of readers and art-appreciators all over the world. But, as is too often the case with illustrators and cartoon artists, his work faded from memory very quickly once his career ended. Though there remains a loyal cadre of fans and collectors, trading old tear-sheets and  weathered magazine clippings, his name is largely unknown by modern lovers of illustration, cartooning and graphic art. As Denis tells Derek, this is an absolute must for any serious student of illustration and cartoon art. Not only are Cady's visuals absolutely stunning, but this is sure to be a highly sought-after collectable in the years to come. What other reasons do you need to support this Kickstarter campaign? Head on over to their page and back Madness in Crowds! Cover and Sample Art   Sat, 26 May 2018 01:13:50 -0000 Kickstarting Madness in Crowds: The Teeming Mind of Harrison Cady full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Historically Conscious On the current Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with comics legend Denis Kitchen about Madness in Crowds: The Teeming Mind of Harrison Cady, the latest campaign from Beehive Books, in association with Denis. Madness in Crowdswill be a large-format hardcover art book -- a towering 10" x 14" and with 176+ pages-- collecting the works of the definitive early 20th-century illustrator and cartoonist Harrison Cady (1877–1970). So, who was Harrison Cady? As Denis and company describes the artist: Over the course of a 70 year professional career, he created countless overflowing worlds, bustling with life and energy and detail and chaos. His illustrations were generous, abundant, warm and humane. There was never another artist like him. He specialized in frenzied crowd scenes, in which each tiny character came armed with their own distinct personality and a sense of humor that projected off the page. He especially loved animals and insects, spawning and exploring vast eco-systems of creeping crawlers with human affectations: beetle ballerinas, ladybugs in spats and umbrellas, fiddle-playing mosquitos. A committed political progressive, Cady frequently made cartoons about women's suffrage, injustice and the exploitation of the working classes. In his long and productive career, he laid an endless array of visual feasts out for the eyes of readers and art-appreciators all over the world. But, as is too often the case with illustrators and cartoon artists, his work faded from memory very quickly once his career ended. Though there remains a loyal cadre of fans and collectors, trading old tear-sheets and  weathered magazine clippings, his name is largely unknown by modern lovers of illustration, cartooning and graphic art. As Denis tells Derek, this is an absolute must for any serious student of illustration and cartoon art. Not only are Cady's visuals absolutely stunning, but this is sure to be a highly sought-after collectable in the years to come. What other reasons do you need to support this Kickstarter campaign? Head on over to their page and back Madness in Crowds! Cover and Sample Art  

On the current Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with comics legend Denis Kitchen about Madness in Crowds: The Teeming Mind of Harrison Cady, the latest campaign from Beehive Books, in association with Denis.

Madness in Crowdswill be a large-format hardcover art book -- a towering 10" x 14" and with 176+ pages-- collecting the works of the definitive early 20th-century illustrator and cartoonist Harrison Cady (1877–1970).

So, who was Harrison Cady? As Denis and company describes the artist:

Over the course of a 70 year professional career, he created countless overflowing worlds, bustling with life and energy and detail and chaos. His illustrations were generous, abundant, warm and humane. There was never another artist like him. He specialized in frenzied crowd scenes, in which each tiny character came armed with their own distinct personality and a sense of humor that projected off the page. He especially loved animals and insects, spawning and exploring vast eco-systems of creeping crawlers with human affectations: beetle ballerinas, ladybugs in spats and umbrellas, fiddle-playing mosquitos. A committed political progressive, Cady frequently made cartoons about women's suffrage, injustice and the exploitation of the working classes. In his long and productive career, he laid an endless array of visual feasts out for the eyes of readers and art-appreciators all over the world. But, as is too often the case with illustrators and cartoon artists, his work faded from memory very quickly once his career ended. Though there remains a loyal cadre of fans and collectors, trading old tear-sheets and  weathered magazine clippings, his name is largely unknown by modern lovers of illustration, cartooning and graphic art.

As Denis tells Derek, this is an absolute must for any serious student of illustration and cartoon art. Not only are Cady's visuals absolutely stunning, but this is sure to be a highly sought-after collectable in the years to come. What other reasons do you need to support this Kickstarter campaign? Head on over to their page and back Madness in Crowds!

Cover and Sample Art

 

]]> 1020 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu, Algeria Is Beautiful Like America, and Die Laughing http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-lovecraft-the-myth-of-cthulhu-algeria-is-beautiful-like-america-and-die-laughing Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Pascal reports back from TCAF! 00:09:10 - Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu  00:41:51 - Algeria Is Beautiful Like America 01:20:20 - Die Laughing 01:51:28 - Wrap up 01:52:19 - Contact us For the May Euro Comics episode, Pascal and Derek discuss three very different works in translation...but all of which are primarily in black-and-white. They begin with Esteban Maroto's Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu (IDW Publishing), an adaptation of three of H. P. Lovecraft's short stories: "The Nameless City," "The Festival," and "The Call of Cthulhu." All three are part of the writer's Cthulhu mythos, and the guys comment on Maroto's illustrative style and how it reflects that found in 1970s Warren publications, to which Maroto actually contributed (although not these stories). Next, they discuss Olivia Burton and Mahi Grand's Algeria Is Beautiful Like America (Lion Forge). This is a memoir of Burton's journey to Algeria, particularly Algiers and the Aurès Mountains, to visit the land of her mother and grandparents. In many ways, this is a narrative all about identity, in that the author attempts to understand the land of her forebears in order to better understand herself. This is a striking autobiographical work, but as the Two Guys point out, it's unusual that a memoir such as this is written and illustrated by different creators. The guys wrap up this month's episode by visiting a book that is close to Pascal's heart, André Franquin's Die Laughing(Fantagraphics Books). This is a collection of Franquin's Idées noires strips, which are strikingly different from his earlier work in Spirouor his Gastonand Marsupilamicomics. As Derek and Pascal point out, these are more serious and foreboding pieces that reflect a dark peri0d in Franquin's life. And while many of these strips are politically poignant, they are nonetheless timeless and are just as fresh today as when they were first created during the 1970s and 1980s. Fri, 25 May 2018 13:21:15 -0000 Reviews of Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu, Algeria Is Beautiful Like America, and Die Laughing full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A (Mostly) Black-and-White Episode Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Pascal reports back from TCAF! 00:09:10 - Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu  00:41:51 - Algeria Is Beautiful Like America 01:20:20 - Die Laughing 01:51:28 - Wrap up 01:52:19 - Contact us For the May Euro Comics episode, Pascal and Derek discuss three very different works in translation...but all of which are primarily in black-and-white. They begin with Esteban Maroto's Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu (IDW Publishing), an adaptation of three of H. P. Lovecraft's short stories: "The Nameless City," "The Festival," and "The Call of Cthulhu." All three are part of the writer's Cthulhu mythos, and the guys comment on Maroto's illustrative style and how it reflects that found in 1970s Warren publications, to which Maroto actually contributed (although not these stories). Next, they discuss Olivia Burton and Mahi Grand's Algeria Is Beautiful Like America (Lion Forge). This is a memoir of Burton's journey to Algeria, particularly Algiers and the Aurès Mountains, to visit the land of her mother and grandparents. In many ways, this is a narrative all about identity, in that the author attempts to understand the land of her forebears in order to better understand herself. This is a striking autobiographical work, but as the Two Guys point out, it's unusual that a memoir such as this is written and illustrated by different creators. The guys wrap up this month's episode by visiting a book that is close to Pascal's heart, André Franquin's Die Laughing(Fantagraphics Books). This is a collection of Franquin's Idées noires strips, which are strikingly different from his earlier work in Spirouor his Gastonand Marsupilamicomics. As Derek and Pascal point out, these are more serious and foreboding pieces that reflect a dark peri0d in Franquin's life. And while many of these strips are politically poignant, they are nonetheless timeless and are just as fresh today as when they were first created during the 1970s and 1980s. Time Codes:

For the May Euro Comics episode, Pascal and Derek discuss three very different works in translation...but all of which are primarily in black-and-white. They begin with Esteban Maroto's Lovecraft: The Myth of Cthulhu (IDW Publishing), an adaptation of three of H. P. Lovecraft's short stories: "The Nameless City," "The Festival," and "The Call of Cthulhu." All three are part of the writer's Cthulhu mythos, and the guys comment on Maroto's illustrative style and how it reflects that found in 1970s Warren publications, to which Maroto actually contributed (although not these stories).

Next, they discuss Olivia Burton and Mahi Grand's Algeria Is Beautiful Like America (Lion Forge). This is a memoir of Burton's journey to Algeria, particularly Algiers and the Aurès Mountains, to visit the land of her mother and grandparents. In many ways, this is a narrative all about identity, in that the author attempts to understand the land of her forebears in order to better understand herself. This is a striking autobiographical work, but as the Two Guys point out, it's unusual that a memoir such as this is written and illustrated by different creators.

The guys wrap up this month's episode by visiting a book that is close to Pascal's heart, André Franquin's Die Laughing(Fantagraphics Books). This is a collection of Franquin's Idées noires strips, which are strikingly different from his earlier work in Spirouor his Gastonand Marsupilamicomics. As Derek and Pascal point out, these are more serious and foreboding pieces that reflect a dark peri0d in Franquin's life. And while many of these strips are politically poignant, they are nonetheless timeless and are just as fresh today as when they were first created during the 1970s and 1980s.

]]> 6918 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Peter Normanton http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-peter-normanton Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:19 - Setup of interview 04:13 - Interview with Peter Normanton 55:17 - Wrap up 55:53 - Contact us On past episodes of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys have discussed comics fandom and zine culture quite often, although usually the context surrounds American fan activity. But as Derek points out in his conversation with Peter Normanton, he has little knowledge of fanzines outside of the states, particularly within the United Kingdom. That’s why Peter’s latest book, It Crept from the Tomb, was such an enlightening read. Normanton was the publisher and editor of the UK horror zine, From the Tomb, which began in 2000 and ran for over 20-some issues. Several years ago, he was approached by Roy Thomas about the possibility editing a collection from the pages of his horror zine, and the result was The Best of From the Tomb, which came out from TwoMorrows Publishing in 2012. And then more recently, John Morrow asked Peter about a second “best of” collection surrounding From the Tomb…and this request eventually became Peter’s newest release, It Crept from the Tomb. In his conversation with Peter Normanton, Derek talks with his guest about his time as an editor and publisher, the history of comics in in the UK, his love of the horror genre and comics fandom, and the many challenges he faced in putting out a fanzine over the years. NOTE: Over the course of Derek's conversation with Peter, they experienced occasional problems with the internet connection. Peter lives in northwest Britain, and at times the connection on Skype was sketchy. So apologies in advance for the several breaks and momentary silences that are noticeable on Peter’s track. Still, the gist of his comments comes through clearly, so please overlook any technical difficulties they may have had. Thu, 24 May 2018 19:55:16 -0000 An Interview with Peter Normanton full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Horror in the UK Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:19 - Setup of interview 04:13 - Interview with Peter Normanton 55:17 - Wrap up 55:53 - Contact us On past episodes of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys have discussed comics fandom and zine culture quite often, although usually the context surrounds American fan activity. But as Derek points out in his conversation with Peter Normanton, he has little knowledge of fanzines outside of the states, particularly within the United Kingdom. That’s why Peter’s latest book, It Crept from the Tomb, was such an enlightening read. Normanton was the publisher and editor of the UK horror zine, From the Tomb, which began in 2000 and ran for over 20-some issues. Several years ago, he was approached by Roy Thomas about the possibility editing a collection from the pages of his horror zine, and the result was The Best of From the Tomb, which came out from TwoMorrows Publishing in 2012. And then more recently, John Morrow asked Peter about a second “best of” collection surrounding From the Tomb…and this request eventually became Peter’s newest release, It Crept from the Tomb. In his conversation with Peter Normanton, Derek talks with his guest about his time as an editor and publisher, the history of comics in in the UK, his love of the horror genre and comics fandom, and the many challenges he faced in putting out a fanzine over the years. NOTE: Over the course of Derek's conversation with Peter, they experienced occasional problems with the internet connection. Peter lives in northwest Britain, and at times the connection on Skype was sketchy. So apologies in advance for the several breaks and momentary silences that are noticeable on Peter’s track. Still, the gist of his comments comes through clearly, so please overlook any technical difficulties they may have had. Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:19 - Setup of interview
  • 04:13 - Interview with Peter Normanton
  • 55:17 - Wrap up
  • 55:53 - Contact us

On past episodes of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys have discussed comics fandom and zine culture quite often, although usually the context surrounds American fan activity. But as Derek points out in his conversation with Peter Normanton, he has little knowledge of fanzines outside of the states, particularly within the United Kingdom. That’s why Peter’s latest book, It Crept from the Tomb, was such an enlightening read. Normanton was the publisher and editor of the UK horror zine, From the Tomb, which began in 2000 and ran for over 20-some issues. Several years ago, he was approached by Roy Thomas about the possibility editing a collection from the pages of his horror zine, and the result was The Best of From the Tomb, which came out from TwoMorrows Publishing in 2012. And then more recently, John Morrow asked Peter about a second “best of” collection surrounding From the Tomb…and this request eventually became Peter’s newest release, It Crept from the Tomb. In his conversation with Peter Normanton, Derek talks with his guest about his time as an editor and publisher, the history of comics in in the UK, his love of the horror genre and comics fandom, and the many challenges he faced in putting out a fanzine over the years.

NOTE: Over the course of Derek's conversation with Peter, they experienced occasional problems with the internet connection. Peter lives in northwest Britain, and at times the connection on Skype was sketchy. So apologies in advance for the several breaks and momentary silences that are noticeable on Peter’s track. Still, the gist of his comments comes through clearly, so please overlook any technical difficulties they may have had.

]]> 3525 no Episode 281: Reviews of James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner and NOW #3, as Well as a Look at the 2018 Eisner Award Nominations http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-281-reviews-of-james-joyce-portrait-of-a-dubliner-and-now-3-as-well-as-a-look-at-the-2018-eisner-award-nominations Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:02:57 - Listener mail! 00:10:23 - James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner - A Graphic Biography 00:41:38 - NOW#3 01:13:43 - A discussion of the 2018 Eisner Award nominations 02:00:49 - Wrap up 02:01:55 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek review two recent releases, and they also take the time to discuss this year's Eisner Award nominations. They start off with Alfonso Zapico's James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner - A Graphic Biography (Arcade Publishing). Originally published in Spanish, this is a look at the life of the famous Irish modernist, covering not only his accomplishments as a writer, but his family and personal relations, as well. As the guys discuss, Zapico's text provides a general outline of the major events and relationships in Joyce's life, but as with most comics-based biographies, the interiority of the subject is limited. At the same time, this is a well-paced and even detailed look at the author of Dubliners and Ulysses, with Zapico presenting a very human portrait of a writer most may only know from a critical distance. After that, the Two Guys check out the latest issue of NOW, the Fantagraphics anthology edited by Eric Reynolds. This has become an ongoing obligation of The Comics Alternative, covering each issue of this anthology as it's released. (Paul and Derek discussed NOW#1 last fall, and then Gene and Derek looked at NOW#2 back in January.) The latest collection brings together several artists contributing to previous issues -- e.g., Noah Van Sciver, Eleanor Davis, and Dash Shaw -- but also a variety of creators who are not only new to the anthology, but brand new to both Paul and Derek, as well. In fact, this is one of the things they enjoy about NOW, its diversity and the editor's dedication to exposing the work of little-known comics artists. Some of the most notable pieces in this third issue are from contributors outside of North America, including Marcello Quintanhila (Brazil), Anne Simon (France), and Roberta Scomparsa (Italy). The guys wrap up this week's show with a discussion of the 2018 Eisner Award nominations. Paul and Derek do not make any predictions, nor do they second-guess the award judges or speculate as to internal dynamics about which they had no way of knowing. What they dodiscuss are the various creators and publishers under nomination, any trends or tendencies they can possibly discern from this year's selections, the process of categorization and definition within the industry, and the sheer number of current nominees, artists and texts, that were actually discussed on The Comics Alternative.   Wed, 23 May 2018 17:16:03 -0000 Reviews of James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner and NOW #3, and a Look at the 2018 Eisner Award Nominations full 281 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Modern and Different Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:02:57 - Listener mail! 00:10:23 - James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner - A Graphic Biography 00:41:38 - NOW#3 01:13:43 - A discussion of the 2018 Eisner Award nominations 02:00:49 - Wrap up 02:01:55 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek review two recent releases, and they also take the time to discuss this year's Eisner Award nominations. They start off with Alfonso Zapico's James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner - A Graphic Biography (Arcade Publishing). Originally published in Spanish, this is a look at the life of the famous Irish modernist, covering not only his accomplishments as a writer, but his family and personal relations, as well. As the guys discuss, Zapico's text provides a general outline of the major events and relationships in Joyce's life, but as with most comics-based biographies, the interiority of the subject is limited. At the same time, this is a well-paced and even detailed look at the author of Dubliners and Ulysses, with Zapico presenting a very human portrait of a writer most may only know from a critical distance. After that, the Two Guys check out the latest issue of NOW, the Fantagraphics anthology edited by Eric Reynolds. This has become an ongoing obligation of The Comics Alternative, covering each issue of this anthology as it's released. (Paul and Derek discussed NOW#1 last fall, and then Gene and Derek looked at NOW#2 back in January.) The latest collection brings together several artists contributing to previous issues -- e.g., Noah Van Sciver, Eleanor Davis, and Dash Shaw -- but also a variety of creators who are not only new to the anthology, but brand new to both Paul and Derek, as well. In fact, this is one of the things they enjoy about NOW, its diversity and the editor's dedication to exposing the work of little-known comics artists. Some of the most notable pieces in this third issue are from contributors outside of North America, including Marcello Quintanhila (Brazil), Anne Simon (France), and Roberta Scomparsa (Italy). The guys wrap up this week's show with a discussion of the 2018 Eisner Award nominations. Paul and Derek do not make any predictions, nor do they second-guess the award judges or speculate as to internal dynamics about which they had no way of knowing. What they dodiscuss are the various creators and publishers under nomination, any trends or tendencies they can possibly discern from this year's selections, the process of categorization and definition within the industry, and the sheer number of current nominees, artists and texts, that were actually discussed on The Comics Alternative.   Time Codes:

This week Paul and Derek review two recent releases, and they also take the time to discuss this year's Eisner Award nominations. They start off with Alfonso Zapico's James Joyce: Portrait of a Dubliner - A Graphic Biography (Arcade Publishing). Originally published in Spanish, this is a look at the life of the famous Irish modernist, covering not only his accomplishments as a writer, but his family and personal relations, as well. As the guys discuss, Zapico's text provides a general outline of the major events and relationships in Joyce's life, but as with most comics-based biographies, the interiority of the subject is limited. At the same time, this is a well-paced and even detailed look at the author of Dubliners and Ulysses, with Zapico presenting a very human portrait of a writer most may only know from a critical distance.

After that, the Two Guys check out the latest issue of NOW, the Fantagraphics anthology edited by Eric Reynolds. This has become an ongoing obligation of The Comics Alternative, covering each issue of this anthology as it's released. (Paul and Derek discussed NOW#1 last fall, and then Gene and Derek looked at NOW#2 back in January.) The latest collection brings together several artists contributing to previous issues -- e.g., Noah Van Sciver, Eleanor Davis, and Dash Shaw -- but also a variety of creators who are not only new to the anthology, but brand new to both Paul and Derek, as well. In fact, this is one of the things they enjoy about NOW, its diversity and the editor's dedication to exposing the work of little-known comics artists. Some of the most notable pieces in this third issue are from contributors outside of North America, including Marcello Quintanhila (Brazil), Anne Simon (France), and Roberta Scomparsa (Italy).

The guys wrap up this week's show with a discussion of the 2018 Eisner Award nominations. Paul and Derek do not make any predictions, nor do they second-guess the award judges or speculate as to internal dynamics about which they had no way of knowing. What they dodiscuss are the various creators and publishers under nomination, any trends or tendencies they can possibly discern from this year's selections, the process of categorization and definition within the industry, and the sheer number of current nominees, artists and texts, that were actually discussed on The Comics Alternative.

 

]]> 7499 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Sock: The Comic Book http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-sock-the-comic-book For this week's Kickstarter show, Derek talks Rickman about his current campaign Sock: The Comic Book. It's the (largely) wordless story of an unlikely hero displaced from his companion in the laundromat, and going at it on his own as a crimefighter. Sockwill be a 32-page black-and-white comic book, one that will be appropriate for all ages. Rickman describes the origins of Sockthis way: The idea came to me during the 1999 San Diego Comic Con while at the pool with friends after a day at the show. The conversation turned toward the weirdest comic characters we knew. Flaming Carrot, The Tick, Ed the Happy Clown, Reid Fleming: World's Toughest Milkman, Sam and Max: Freelance Police, were all tossed about. The question was asked: what would be the wackiest thing to make into a comic? As my feet dangled in the water I glanced toward my shoes and saw my socks. I reached for my sketchbook (always next to me) and "SOCK" was born. Offbeat, wacky, wordless, all-ages, lost laundry...what's not to like? Be sure to check out Sock: The Comic Book, and see exactly what happens when yoursocks go missing. Sample Art Sat, 19 May 2018 15:34:33 -0000 Kickstarting Sock: The Comic Book full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Footwear Crimefighter! For this week's Kickstarter show, Derek talks Rickman about his current campaign Sock: The Comic Book. It's the (largely) wordless story of an unlikely hero displaced from his companion in the laundromat, and going at it on his own as a crimefighter. Sockwill be a 32-page black-and-white comic book, one that will be appropriate for all ages. Rickman describes the origins of Sockthis way: The idea came to me during the 1999 San Diego Comic Con while at the pool with friends after a day at the show. The conversation turned toward the weirdest comic characters we knew. Flaming Carrot, The Tick, Ed the Happy Clown, Reid Fleming: World's Toughest Milkman, Sam and Max: Freelance Police, were all tossed about. The question was asked: what would be the wackiest thing to make into a comic? As my feet dangled in the water I glanced toward my shoes and saw my socks. I reached for my sketchbook (always next to me) and "SOCK" was born. Offbeat, wacky, wordless, all-ages, lost laundry...what's not to like? Be sure to check out Sock: The Comic Book, and see exactly what happens when yoursocks go missing. Sample Art

For this week's Kickstarter show, Derek talks Rickman about his current campaign Sock: The Comic Book. It's the (largely) wordless story of an unlikely hero displaced from his companion in the laundromat, and going at it on his own as a crimefighter.

Sockwill be a 32-page black-and-white comic book, one that will be appropriate for all ages. Rickman describes the origins of Sockthis way:

The idea came to me during the 1999 San Diego Comic Con while at the pool with friends after a day at the show. The conversation turned toward the weirdest comic characters we knew. Flaming Carrot, The Tick, Ed the Happy Clown, Reid Fleming: World's Toughest Milkman, Sam and Max: Freelance Police, were all tossed about. The question was asked: what would be the wackiest thing to make into a comic? As my feet dangled in the water I glanced toward my shoes and saw my socks. I reached for my sketchbook (always next to me) and "SOCK" was born.

Offbeat, wacky, wordless, all-ages, lost laundry...what's not to like? Be sure to check out Sock: The Comic Book, and see exactly what happens when yoursocks go missing.

Sample Art

]]> 887 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Alison McCreesh http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-alison-mccreesh Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:04:18 - Interview with Alison McCreesh 01:04:09 - Wrap up 01:04:44 - Contact us Readers of Alison McCreesh’s 2015 work, Ramshackle: A Yellowknife Story, know about the draw northern climates has on her and the love she has for pioneer-like exploration. In her new book, Norths: Two Suitcases and a Stroller around the Circumpolar World, released last month from Conundrum Press, Alison ramps up those affections. It’s an account of her six-month trip to circumpolar regions and her time in four art residencies in Finland, Russia, Greenland, and Iceland, all above the 60thParallel. Traveling with her partner Patrice and her son Riel, Alison kept a diary of her experiences in the form of postcards that she sent off almost daily to friends and supporters who had agreed to back her project. The result is a unique travelogue, in sequential postcard form, of her exploration of northern climates, her experiences at the various residencies, and her attempts at trying to balance life, work, and family. Norths is an engaging hybrid text, and in this interview episode, Derek has an insightful talk with Alison about her process, her love of travel writing, and whether or not she considers the new book a work of comic art. Fri, 18 May 2018 16:34:58 -0000 An Interview with Alison McCreesh full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Life North of 60 Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:04:18 - Interview with Alison McCreesh 01:04:09 - Wrap up 01:04:44 - Contact us Readers of Alison McCreesh’s 2015 work, Ramshackle: A Yellowknife Story, know about the draw northern climates has on her and the love she has for pioneer-like exploration. In her new book, Norths: Two Suitcases and a Stroller around the Circumpolar World, released last month from Conundrum Press, Alison ramps up those affections. It’s an account of her six-month trip to circumpolar regions and her time in four art residencies in Finland, Russia, Greenland, and Iceland, all above the 60thParallel. Traveling with her partner Patrice and her son Riel, Alison kept a diary of her experiences in the form of postcards that she sent off almost daily to friends and supporters who had agreed to back her project. The result is a unique travelogue, in sequential postcard form, of her exploration of northern climates, her experiences at the various residencies, and her attempts at trying to balance life, work, and family. Norths is an engaging hybrid text, and in this interview episode, Derek has an insightful talk with Alison about her process, her love of travel writing, and whether or not she considers the new book a work of comic art. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:49 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:18 - Interview with Alison McCreesh
  • 01:04:09 - Wrap up
  • 01:04:44 - Contact us

Readers of Alison McCreesh’s 2015 work, Ramshackle: A Yellowknife Story, know about the draw northern climates has on her and the love she has for pioneer-like exploration. In her new book, Norths: Two Suitcases and a Stroller around the Circumpolar World, released last month from Conundrum Press, Alison ramps up those affections. It’s an account of her six-month trip to circumpolar regions and her time in four art residencies in Finland, Russia, Greenland, and Iceland, all above the 60thParallel. Traveling with her partner Patrice and her son Riel, Alison kept a diary of her experiences in the form of postcards that she sent off almost daily to friends and supporters who had agreed to back her project. The result is a unique travelogue, in sequential postcard form, of her exploration of northern climates, her experiences at the various residencies, and her attempts at trying to balance life, work, and family. Norths is an engaging hybrid text, and in this interview episode, Derek has an insightful talk with Alison about her process, her love of travel writing, and whether or not she considers the new book a work of comic art.

]]> 4055 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Kriota Willberg http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-kriota-willberg Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:03:58 - Interview with Kriota Willberg 01:15:16 - Wrap up 01:16:21 - Contact us The Two Guys talk with a lot of comics creators about their craft, their ideas, and their passions. But they never really talk with them about their health. On this interview episode, Gene and Derek have as their guest an artist who is all about health and well-being. Kriota Willberg, whose new book Draw Stronger: Self-Care For Cartoonists and Other Visual Artists(Uncivilized Books) was released last month, discusses her experiences in health care, her years as a massage therapist, and how it all informs her creative trajectory. Draw Strongeris a text targeted to visual artists who work within fine and detailed contexts, and it provides helpful means to avoid pain and address the kind of physical practices that will best nurture creativity. The book is divided into three sections, revealing the basics of creative self-care, exercises that target a variety of body movements, and useful first aid to address stress and pain while waiting to visit a health professional. Over the course of their conversation, Kriota discusses the genesis of this project in her minicomics, the ways in which humor informs her approach, the vast research that went into this guide, and how her work in bioethics has impacted her comics. Thu, 17 May 2018 13:10:22 -0000 An Interview with Kriota Willberg full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Good Pus, Bad Pus Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:03:58 - Interview with Kriota Willberg 01:15:16 - Wrap up 01:16:21 - Contact us The Two Guys talk with a lot of comics creators about their craft, their ideas, and their passions. But they never really talk with them about their health. On this interview episode, Gene and Derek have as their guest an artist who is all about health and well-being. Kriota Willberg, whose new book Draw Stronger: Self-Care For Cartoonists and Other Visual Artists(Uncivilized Books) was released last month, discusses her experiences in health care, her years as a massage therapist, and how it all informs her creative trajectory. Draw Strongeris a text targeted to visual artists who work within fine and detailed contexts, and it provides helpful means to avoid pain and address the kind of physical practices that will best nurture creativity. The book is divided into three sections, revealing the basics of creative self-care, exercises that target a variety of body movements, and useful first aid to address stress and pain while waiting to visit a health professional. Over the course of their conversation, Kriota discusses the genesis of this project in her minicomics, the ways in which humor informs her approach, the vast research that went into this guide, and how her work in bioethics has impacted her comics. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:49 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:58 - Interview with Kriota Willberg
  • 01:15:16 - Wrap up
  • 01:16:21 - Contact us

The Two Guys talk with a lot of comics creators about their craft, their ideas, and their passions. But they never really talk with them about their health. On this interview episode, Gene and Derek have as their guest an artist who is all about health and well-being. Kriota Willberg, whose new book Draw Stronger: Self-Care For Cartoonists and Other Visual Artists(Uncivilized Books) was released last month, discusses her experiences in health care, her years as a massage therapist, and how it all informs her creative trajectory. Draw Strongeris a text targeted to visual artists who work within fine and detailed contexts, and it provides helpful means to avoid pain and address the kind of physical practices that will best nurture creativity. The book is divided into three sections, revealing the basics of creative self-care, exercises that target a variety of body movements, and useful first aid to address stress and pain while waiting to visit a health professional. Over the course of their conversation, Kriota discusses the genesis of this project in her minicomics, the ways in which humor informs her approach, the vast research that went into this guide, and how her work in bioethics has impacted her comics.

]]> 4775 no Episode 280: Reviews of The New World: Comics from Mauretania, Young Frances, and A Walk through Hell #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-280-reviews-of-the-new-world-comics-from-mauretania-young-frances-and-a-walk-through-hell-1 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:16 - Listener mail! 00:06:17 - The New World: Comics from Mauretania 00:48:32 - Young Frances 01:20:52 - A Walk through Hell#1 01:39:53 - Wrap up 01:40:52 - Contact us On this episode of the podcast, Paul and Derek look at three new releases that, while all compelling readings, are vastly different in style and narrative approach. They begin with Chris Reynold's The New World: Comics fromMauretania, recently released from Gallery 13. This is a collection of Reynold's Mauretania comics published beginning in the 1980s. This volume was designed by Seth, and he also provided a brief and insightful note at the end of the text. Neither Paul nor Derek had encountered any of the Mauretania stories before, and they're sorry that they hadn't read Reynolds any sooner. The narratives are dreamlike and random in their coherency, and while making any sense of their meaning and action can be an exercise in frustration, they are strangely some of the most compelling comics the guys have read this year. Next, the Two Guys turn to a creator whom they've read and loved before, but not by his current name. Both Paul and Derek are big fans of the series Pope Hats, authored by Ethan Rilly, an anagram of Hartley Lin. In Young Frances (AdHouse Books), Lin is now using his real name and collects issues #2, #3, and #5 of his defining series. The text presents the story of Frances Scarland, a young legal clerk whose efficiency and competency are admired by those around her, but who nonetheless wonders if she's just drifting through life without purpose. Her best friend, Vickie, is impulse and more scattered, yet talented enough to find a lead role acting in a hit television crime drama. This is yet another example of "verite dessinée" storytelling, a favorite of Derek's and Paul's. The guys conclude this episode by looking at the first issue of Garth Ennis and Goran Sudžuka's A Walk through Hell (AfterShock Comics). A mix of horror and crime, this first issue establishes the premise of the series but does so in a way that poses a variety of questions. In fact, both Paul and Derek feel as if this first issue ended almost too quickly -- a sense that they've gotten with other AfterShock first issues -- although there is enough in this inaugural installment to have them wanting to come back to the series. In this first issue, Special Agents Shaw and McGregor work a recent race-related killing while at the same time investigating the disappearance of two fellow officers. What they stumble onto, and we never get a sense of what that is, is apparently something so horrific that even the most hardened law enforcers are unable to live with what they saw. Wed, 16 May 2018 00:28:28 -0000 Reviews of The New World: Comics from Mauretania, Young Frances, and A Walk through Hell #1 full 280 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Comfortable Fogginess Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:16 - Listener mail! 00:06:17 - The New World: Comics from Mauretania 00:48:32 - Young Frances 01:20:52 - A Walk through Hell#1 01:39:53 - Wrap up 01:40:52 - Contact us On this episode of the podcast, Paul and Derek look at three new releases that, while all compelling readings, are vastly different in style and narrative approach. They begin with Chris Reynold's The New World: Comics fromMauretania, recently released from Gallery 13. This is a collection of Reynold's Mauretania comics published beginning in the 1980s. This volume was designed by Seth, and he also provided a brief and insightful note at the end of the text. Neither Paul nor Derek had encountered any of the Mauretania stories before, and they're sorry that they hadn't read Reynolds any sooner. The narratives are dreamlike and random in their coherency, and while making any sense of their meaning and action can be an exercise in frustration, they are strangely some of the most compelling comics the guys have read this year. Next, the Two Guys turn to a creator whom they've read and loved before, but not by his current name. Both Paul and Derek are big fans of the series Pope Hats, authored by Ethan Rilly, an anagram of Hartley Lin. In Young Frances (AdHouse Books), Lin is now using his real name and collects issues #2, #3, and #5 of his defining series. The text presents the story of Frances Scarland, a young legal clerk whose efficiency and competency are admired by those around her, but who nonetheless wonders if she's just drifting through life without purpose. Her best friend, Vickie, is impulse and more scattered, yet talented enough to find a lead role acting in a hit television crime drama. This is yet another example of "verite dessinée" storytelling, a favorite of Derek's and Paul's. The guys conclude this episode by looking at the first issue of Garth Ennis and Goran Sudžuka's A Walk through Hell (AfterShock Comics). A mix of horror and crime, this first issue establishes the premise of the series but does so in a way that poses a variety of questions. In fact, both Paul and Derek feel as if this first issue ended almost too quickly -- a sense that they've gotten with other AfterShock first issues -- although there is enough in this inaugural installment to have them wanting to come back to the series. In this first issue, Special Agents Shaw and McGregor work a recent race-related killing while at the same time investigating the disappearance of two fellow officers. What they stumble onto, and we never get a sense of what that is, is apparently something so horrific that even the most hardened law enforcers are unable to live with what they saw. Time Codes:

On this episode of the podcast, Paul and Derek look at three new releases that, while all compelling readings, are vastly different in style and narrative approach. They begin with Chris Reynold's The New World: Comics fromMauretania, recently released from Gallery 13. This is a collection of Reynold's Mauretania comics published beginning in the 1980s. This volume was designed by Seth, and he also provided a brief and insightful note at the end of the text. Neither Paul nor Derek had encountered any of the Mauretania stories before, and they're sorry that they hadn't read Reynolds any sooner. The narratives are dreamlike and random in their coherency, and while making any sense of their meaning and action can be an exercise in frustration, they are strangely some of the most compelling comics the guys have read this year.

Next, the Two Guys turn to a creator whom they've read and loved before, but not by his current name. Both Paul and Derek are big fans of the series Pope Hats, authored by Ethan Rilly, an anagram of Hartley Lin. In Young Frances (AdHouse Books), Lin is now using his real name and collects issues #2, #3, and #5 of his defining series. The text presents the story of Frances Scarland, a young legal clerk whose efficiency and competency are admired by those around her, but who nonetheless wonders if she's just drifting through life without purpose. Her best friend, Vickie, is impulse and more scattered, yet talented enough to find a lead role acting in a hit television crime drama. This is yet another example of "verite dessinée" storytelling, a favorite of Derek's and Paul's.

The guys conclude this episode by looking at the first issue of Garth Ennis and Goran Sudžuka's A Walk through Hell (AfterShock Comics). A mix of horror and crime, this first issue establishes the premise of the series but does so in a way that poses a variety of questions. In fact, both Paul and Derek feel as if this first issue ended almost too quickly -- a sense that they've gotten with other AfterShock first issues -- although there is enough in this inaugural installment to have them wanting to come back to the series. In this first issue, Special Agents Shaw and McGregor work a recent race-related killing while at the same time investigating the disappearance of two fellow officers. What they stumble onto, and we never get a sense of what that is, is apparently something so horrific that even the most hardened law enforcers are unable to live with what they saw.

]]> 6253 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Michael Kupperman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-michael-kupperman Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 03:18 - Setup of interview 05:37 - Interview with Michael Kupperman 56:33 - Wrap up 58:16 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gene and Derek are happy to have Michael Kupperman on the show to discuss his new book All the Answers, just out from Simon and Shuster's  Gallery 13 imprint. Long-time fans of Kupperman will find a significant tonal shift from his earlier works such as Tales Designed to Thrizzle or Snake 'n' Bacon's Cartoon Cabaret. This new book is an emotional and probing look at his father, Joel Kupperman, and his time as one of the famous Quiz Kids of the 1940s and 1950s. Throughout this memoir, Kupperman investigate his father's history and attempts to understand how his time in the celebrity spotlight marked his life forever after...and at the same time, helped to determine his father's future behavior and his family's emotional trajectory. In this way, All the Answersserves not only as a way to understand his father, but as a means to grapple with Michael Kupperman's own sense of self and how he relates to his own family. Over the course of their conversation, Gene and Derek talk with Michael about the research that went into his new book, the genesis of the project, his efforts in pursuing this extremely sensitive family history, and how All the Answersmay be a stylistic turning point in his career.   Tue, 15 May 2018 01:43:46 -0000 An Interview with Michael Kupperman full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Clearing Out Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 03:18 - Setup of interview 05:37 - Interview with Michael Kupperman 56:33 - Wrap up 58:16 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gene and Derek are happy to have Michael Kupperman on the show to discuss his new book All the Answers, just out from Simon and Shuster's  Gallery 13 imprint. Long-time fans of Kupperman will find a significant tonal shift from his earlier works such as Tales Designed to Thrizzle or Snake 'n' Bacon's Cartoon Cabaret. This new book is an emotional and probing look at his father, Joel Kupperman, and his time as one of the famous Quiz Kids of the 1940s and 1950s. Throughout this memoir, Kupperman investigate his father's history and attempts to understand how his time in the celebrity spotlight marked his life forever after...and at the same time, helped to determine his father's future behavior and his family's emotional trajectory. In this way, All the Answersserves not only as a way to understand his father, but as a means to grapple with Michael Kupperman's own sense of self and how he relates to his own family. Over the course of their conversation, Gene and Derek talk with Michael about the research that went into his new book, the genesis of the project, his efforts in pursuing this extremely sensitive family history, and how All the Answersmay be a stylistic turning point in his career.   Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 03:18 - Setup of interview
  • 05:37 - Interview with Michael Kupperman
  • 56:33 - Wrap up
  • 58:16 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Gene and Derek are happy to have Michael Kupperman on the show to discuss his new book All the Answers, just out from Simon and Shuster's  Gallery 13 imprint. Long-time fans of Kupperman will find a significant tonal shift from his earlier works such as Tales Designed to Thrizzle or Snake 'n' Bacon's Cartoon Cabaret. This new book is an emotional and probing look at his father, Joel Kupperman, and his time as one of the famous Quiz Kids of the 1940s and 1950s. Throughout this memoir, Kupperman investigate his father's history and attempts to understand how his time in the celebrity spotlight marked his life forever after...and at the same time, helped to determine his father's future behavior and his family's emotional trajectory. In this way, All the Answersserves not only as a way to understand his father, but as a means to grapple with Michael Kupperman's own sense of self and how he relates to his own family. Over the course of their conversation, Gene and Derek talk with Michael about the research that went into his new book, the genesis of the project, his efforts in pursuing this extremely sensitive family history, and how All the Answersmay be a stylistic turning point in his career.

 

]]> 3691 no Webcomics: The 2018 Eisner Awards Nominees for Best Webcomic http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-the-2018-eisner-award-nominees-for-best-webcomic Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Sean recovers! 00:05:19 - Eisner Awards nominees overview 00:23:15 - Awaiting a Wave 00:32:35 - Dispatch from a Sanctuary City 00:45:04 - Welcome to the New World 01:03:09 - The Tea Dragon Society 01:18:41 - Brothers Bond 01:39:18 - Wrap up 01:43:44 - Contact us After a month's hiatus -- and due to an accident that Sean suffered (although he's recovering now!) -- the Two Guys are back with their latest webcomics episode. And since it's Eisner Awards season, Sean and Derek decided to discuss the nominees for this year's Best Webcomic category. As listeners may remember, last year the guys were quite critical of the Eisner Awards judges. While they finally took the long-overdue step in separating webcomics from digital comics, they nonetheless seemed to have no clear understanding of what defined a webcomic. They included webcomics in the Best Digital Comic category, and digital comics in the Best Webcomic category. This year, the judges seemed to have correctly understood the distinctions, although Sean and Derek still have questions as to the parameters and qualifications as to the choices and decision-making process. Then again, theirs may not be to wonder why, but to discuss critically the webcomics under consideration. And the guys have a fruitful discussion concerning this year's nominees: Awaiting a Wave, by Dale Carpenter and Nate Powell (The Weather Channel Digital) Brothers Bond, by Kevin Grevioux and Ryan Benjamin (Webtoons) Dispatch from a Sanctuary City, by Mike Dawson (The Nib) The Tea Dragon Society, by Katie O’Neill (Oni Press) Welcome to the New World, by Jake Halpern and Michael Sloan (New York Times Sunday Review) Mon, 14 May 2018 13:15:33 -0000 Reviews of the 2018 Eisner Award Nominees for Best Webcomic full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Getting It Right This Time? Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Sean recovers! 00:05:19 - Eisner Awards nominees overview 00:23:15 - Awaiting a Wave 00:32:35 - Dispatch from a Sanctuary City 00:45:04 - Welcome to the New World 01:03:09 - The Tea Dragon Society 01:18:41 - Brothers Bond 01:39:18 - Wrap up 01:43:44 - Contact us After a month's hiatus -- and due to an accident that Sean suffered (although he's recovering now!) -- the Two Guys are back with their latest webcomics episode. And since it's Eisner Awards season, Sean and Derek decided to discuss the nominees for this year's Best Webcomic category. As listeners may remember, last year the guys were quite critical of the Eisner Awards judges. While they finally took the long-overdue step in separating webcomics from digital comics, they nonetheless seemed to have no clear understanding of what defined a webcomic. They included webcomics in the Best Digital Comic category, and digital comics in the Best Webcomic category. This year, the judges seemed to have correctly understood the distinctions, although Sean and Derek still have questions as to the parameters and qualifications as to the choices and decision-making process. Then again, theirs may not be to wonder why, but to discuss critically the webcomics under consideration. And the guys have a fruitful discussion concerning this year's nominees: Awaiting a Wave, by Dale Carpenter and Nate Powell (The Weather Channel Digital) Brothers Bond, by Kevin Grevioux and Ryan Benjamin (Webtoons) Dispatch from a Sanctuary City, by Mike Dawson (The Nib) The Tea Dragon Society, by Katie O’Neill (Oni Press) Welcome to the New World, by Jake Halpern and Michael Sloan (New York Times Sunday Review) Time Codes:

After a month's hiatus -- and due to an accident that Sean suffered (although he's recovering now!) -- the Two Guys are back with their latest webcomics episode. And since it's Eisner Awards season, Sean and Derek decided to discuss the nominees for this year's Best Webcomic category. As listeners may remember, last year the guys were quite critical of the Eisner Awards judges. While they finally took the long-overdue step in separating webcomics from digital comics, they nonetheless seemed to have no clear understanding of what defined a webcomic. They included webcomics in the Best Digital Comic category, and digital comics in the Best Webcomic category. This year, the judges seemed to have correctly understood the distinctions, although Sean and Derek still have questions as to the parameters and qualifications as to the choices and decision-making process. Then again, theirs may not be to wonder why, but to discuss critically the webcomics under consideration. And the guys have a fruitful discussion concerning this year's nominees:

]]> 6425 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Skullduggery, Issue 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-skullduggery-issue-2 This week on the Kickstarter show, Derek talks with Jason Beirens about his current campaign for the second issue of his series, Skullduggery. Jason calls Skullduggery a "legal fiction," a Disney-inspired crime narrative that is less police procedural and more based in the courtroom. His previously Kickstarted first issue of Skullduggery is described as the beginning of a look into a double homicide of two known criminals by Judge Stewie Sponte, his assistant Maggie P.I. (a magpie) and his owl. Other characters come into play, two street smart tough guys, brothers Vinnie and Berg De Novo. Lastly, Whimsy Noir, as every detective story needs a dame, right? Populated by anthropomorphic figures, curious criminals, and unusual courtroom proceedings, this will be a fully colored story worth checking out. And there's even a reward level where you can get not only the second, but also the first issue, of Jason's Skullduggery the series so as to get the entire story up to this point. Head on over to #2 campaign and see what it's all about! Cover and Sample Art Fri, 11 May 2018 15:54:09 -0000 Kickstarting Skullduggery, Issue 2 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Perry Mason Meets Disney This week on the Kickstarter show, Derek talks with Jason Beirens about his current campaign for the second issue of his series, Skullduggery. Jason calls Skullduggery a "legal fiction," a Disney-inspired crime narrative that is less police procedural and more based in the courtroom. His previously Kickstarted first issue of Skullduggery is described as the beginning of a look into a double homicide of two known criminals by Judge Stewie Sponte, his assistant Maggie P.I. (a magpie) and his owl. Other characters come into play, two street smart tough guys, brothers Vinnie and Berg De Novo. Lastly, Whimsy Noir, as every detective story needs a dame, right? Populated by anthropomorphic figures, curious criminals, and unusual courtroom proceedings, this will be a fully colored story worth checking out. And there's even a reward level where you can get not only the second, but also the first issue, of Jason's Skullduggery the series so as to get the entire story up to this point. Head on over to #2 campaign and see what it's all about! Cover and Sample Art

This week on the Kickstarter show, Derek talks with Jason Beirens about his current campaign for the second issue of his series, Skullduggery.

Jason calls Skullduggery a "legal fiction," a Disney-inspired crime narrative that is less police procedural and more based in the courtroom. His previously Kickstarted first issue of Skullduggery is described as

the beginning of a look into a double homicide of two known criminals by Judge Stewie Sponte, his assistant Maggie P.I. (a magpie) and his owl. Other characters come into play, two street smart tough guys, brothers Vinnie and Berg De Novo. Lastly, Whimsy Noir, as every detective story needs a dame, right?

Populated by anthropomorphic figures, curious criminals, and unusual courtroom proceedings, this will be a fully colored story worth checking out. And there's even a reward level where you can get not only the second, but also the first issue, of Jason's Skullduggery the series so as to get the entire story up to this point. Head on over to #2 campaign and see what it's all about!

Cover and Sample Art

]]> 1089 no Manga: Finishing Up Monster, Othereworld Barbara, and Other Manga Series http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-finishing-up-monster-othereworld-barbara-and-other-manga-series Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Setting up the episode 00:04:17 - More listener mail! 00:06:49 - Completing Monster 00:49:03 - Completing Otherworld Barbara 01:14:28 - Completing other manga series 01:26:25 - Wrap up 01:27:47 - Contact us On this episode of the monthly manga series -- the April show, actually, albeit late -- Shea and Derek revisit some of the titles that they had previously discussed. They talk about these series now that they have more volumes under their belts, and in some cases, have completed the entire series. The first of these that they discuss is Naoki Urasawa's Monster(VIZ Media), a title that they first discussed in their July 2015 episode. The last volume of the English-language Perfect Editions was released in summer of 2016, and both Shea and Derek explore their experiences finishing up the series. As they reveal, Urasawa has a penchant for vast, multi-leveled narratives, filled with a wide cast of characters, and the guys discuss this style of storytelling, its thrills as well as its challenges. Next, they turn to the completion of a story they first discussed on the September 2016 manga episode, Moto Hagio's Otherworld Barbara (Fantagraphics). The second volume of this series was published in August of last year, and the guys revisit Hagio's storyworld and its wrap-up. As they mentioned on their earlier episode, this is a complex, even vertiginous, narrative that involves dreamscapes, multiple narrative levels, and time interplay. Both of them appreciate Hagio's conclusion, although at times they wonder about the story's lapses into sentimentalism, and if the various narrative threads may not be a bit unwieldy. Finally, the guys discuss other manga series that they've been keeping up with, even completing, individually. For Shea, that includes ONE and Yusuke Murata's One-Punch Man and Yusei Matsui's Assassination Classroom, both published by VIZ Media. Derek waxes enthusiastically about Inio Asano's Goodnight Punpun(VIZ Media), Kengo Hanazawa's I Am a Hero(Dark Horse Manga), and Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish(Kodansha Comics).   Fri, 11 May 2018 10:33:20 -0000 Returning to the Manga Series Monster and Otherworld Barbara full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Completion Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Setting up the episode 00:04:17 - More listener mail! 00:06:49 - Completing Monster 00:49:03 - Completing Otherworld Barbara 01:14:28 - Completing other manga series 01:26:25 - Wrap up 01:27:47 - Contact us On this episode of the monthly manga series -- the April show, actually, albeit late -- Shea and Derek revisit some of the titles that they had previously discussed. They talk about these series now that they have more volumes under their belts, and in some cases, have completed the entire series. The first of these that they discuss is Naoki Urasawa's Monster(VIZ Media), a title that they first discussed in their July 2015 episode. The last volume of the English-language Perfect Editions was released in summer of 2016, and both Shea and Derek explore their experiences finishing up the series. As they reveal, Urasawa has a penchant for vast, multi-leveled narratives, filled with a wide cast of characters, and the guys discuss this style of storytelling, its thrills as well as its challenges. Next, they turn to the completion of a story they first discussed on the September 2016 manga episode, Moto Hagio's Otherworld Barbara (Fantagraphics). The second volume of this series was published in August of last year, and the guys revisit Hagio's storyworld and its wrap-up. As they mentioned on their earlier episode, this is a complex, even vertiginous, narrative that involves dreamscapes, multiple narrative levels, and time interplay. Both of them appreciate Hagio's conclusion, although at times they wonder about the story's lapses into sentimentalism, and if the various narrative threads may not be a bit unwieldy. Finally, the guys discuss other manga series that they've been keeping up with, even completing, individually. For Shea, that includes ONE and Yusuke Murata's One-Punch Man and Yusei Matsui's Assassination Classroom, both published by VIZ Media. Derek waxes enthusiastically about Inio Asano's Goodnight Punpun(VIZ Media), Kengo Hanazawa's I Am a Hero(Dark Horse Manga), and Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish(Kodansha Comics).   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:33 - Setting up the episode
  • 00:04:17 - More listener mail!
  • 00:06:49 - Completing Monster
  • 00:49:03 - Completing Otherworld Barbara
  • 01:14:28 - Completing other manga series
  • 01:26:25 - Wrap up
  • 01:27:47 - Contact us

On this episode of the monthly manga series -- the April show, actually, albeit late -- Shea and Derek revisit some of the titles that they had previously discussed. They talk about these series now that they have more volumes under their belts, and in some cases, have completed the entire series. The first of these that they discuss is Naoki Urasawa's Monster(VIZ Media), a title that they first discussed in their July 2015 episode. The last volume of the English-language Perfect Editions was released in summer of 2016, and both Shea and Derek explore their experiences finishing up the series. As they reveal, Urasawa has a penchant for vast, multi-leveled narratives, filled with a wide cast of characters, and the guys discuss this style of storytelling, its thrills as well as its challenges.

Next, they turn to the completion of a story they first discussed on the September 2016 manga episode, Moto Hagio's Otherworld Barbara (Fantagraphics). The second volume of this series was published in August of last year, and the guys revisit Hagio's storyworld and its wrap-up. As they mentioned on their earlier episode, this is a complex, even vertiginous, narrative that involves dreamscapes, multiple narrative levels, and time interplay. Both of them appreciate Hagio's conclusion, although at times they wonder about the story's lapses into sentimentalism, and if the various narrative threads may not be a bit unwieldy.

Finally, the guys discuss other manga series that they've been keeping up with, even completing, individually. For Shea, that includes ONE and Yusuke Murata's One-Punch Man and Yusei Matsui's Assassination Classroom, both published by VIZ Media. Derek waxes enthusiastically about Inio Asano's Goodnight Punpun(VIZ Media), Kengo Hanazawa's I Am a Hero(Dark Horse Manga), and Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish(Kodansha Comics).

 

]]> 5460 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Conversation with Bill Schelly http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-conversation-with-bill-schelly Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Setup of interview 00:04:08 - Interview with Bill Schelly 01:06:00 - Wrap up 01:06:40 - Contact us There’s perhaps no better historian on American comics fandom than Bill Schelly. Having been a part of the zine scene in the 1960s and early 1970s, and starting when he was a teenager, Schelly worked with many of the movers and shakers within the fan community and published several fanzines of his own. In the early 1990s he returned to comics as a chronicler and as a historian, writing various overviews of comic fandom, and then later making his mark as a comics biographer, covering the lives of such creators as Joe Kubert, Otto Binder, John Stanley, and Harvey Kurtzman, the latter biography earning him a 2016 Eisner Award for Best Comics-Related Book. On this interview episode, Derek talks with Bill about his new book, Sense of Wonder: My Life in Comic Fandom – the Whole Story, and his decisions to revise and expand this memoir from its original 2001 version released through TwoMorrows Publishing. This new edition of Sense of Wonder, published by North Atlantic Books, is significantly expanded, covers Schelly’s entire life up until now, and is written with a much more personal, and revealing, tone than the original. Bill discusses in detail his history in comics fandom and his growth as an editor and writer, as well as the personal milestones that have marked his life.  You can learn more about Bill Schelly and his work by checking out his website. Thu, 10 May 2018 18:25:40 -0000 Another Interview with Bill Schelly full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Fan's Life Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Setup of interview 00:04:08 - Interview with Bill Schelly 01:06:00 - Wrap up 01:06:40 - Contact us There’s perhaps no better historian on American comics fandom than Bill Schelly. Having been a part of the zine scene in the 1960s and early 1970s, and starting when he was a teenager, Schelly worked with many of the movers and shakers within the fan community and published several fanzines of his own. In the early 1990s he returned to comics as a chronicler and as a historian, writing various overviews of comic fandom, and then later making his mark as a comics biographer, covering the lives of such creators as Joe Kubert, Otto Binder, John Stanley, and Harvey Kurtzman, the latter biography earning him a 2016 Eisner Award for Best Comics-Related Book. On this interview episode, Derek talks with Bill about his new book, Sense of Wonder: My Life in Comic Fandom – the Whole Story, and his decisions to revise and expand this memoir from its original 2001 version released through TwoMorrows Publishing. This new edition of Sense of Wonder, published by North Atlantic Books, is significantly expanded, covers Schelly’s entire life up until now, and is written with a much more personal, and revealing, tone than the original. Bill discusses in detail his history in comics fandom and his growth as an editor and writer, as well as the personal milestones that have marked his life.  You can learn more about Bill Schelly and his work by checking out his website. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:29 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:08 - Interview with Bill Schelly
  • 01:06:00 - Wrap up
  • 01:06:40 - Contact us

There’s perhaps no better historian on American comics fandom than Bill Schelly. Having been a part of the zine scene in the 1960s and early 1970s, and starting when he was a teenager, Schelly worked with many of the movers and shakers within the fan community and published several fanzines of his own. In the early 1990s he returned to comics as a chronicler and as a historian, writing various overviews of comic fandom, and then later making his mark as a comics biographer, covering the lives of such creators as Joe Kubert, Otto Binder, John Stanley, and Harvey Kurtzman, the latter biography earning him a 2016 Eisner Award for Best Comics-Related Book. On this interview episode, Derek talks with Bill about his new book, Sense of Wonder: My Life in Comic Fandom – the Whole Story, and his decisions to revise and expand this memoir from its original 2001 version released through TwoMorrows Publishing. This new edition of Sense of Wonder, published by North Atlantic Books, is significantly expanded, covers Schelly’s entire life up until now, and is written with a much more personal, and revealing, tone than the original. Bill discusses in detail his history in comics fandom and his growth as an editor and writer, as well as the personal milestones that have marked his life. 

You can learn more about Bill Schelly and his work by checking out his website.

]]> 4172 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Zach Worton http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-zach-worton Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:14 - Setup of interview 00:04:00 - Interview with Zach Worton 00:59:46 - Wrap up 01:00:27 - Contact us 01:01:46 - “Gotta Get You Outta My Head,” by Zorton and the Cannibals Zach Worton was last on the podcastabout two years ago, around the time of the publication of the second volume in his Charley Butters series, The Search for Charley Butters. On that interview show, Zach discussed the development of his storyline and what to expect in the third and final volume of the series, The Death of Charley Butters. As fate would have it, Zach and his publisher, Conundrum Press, decided to hold off on publishing the third stand-alone installment, and instead, put out the entire series in one complete volume. The result is The Curse of Charley Butters, just released last month, and including the first two Charley Butter stories and what would have been the third. In fact, this complete collection reads as a tight, cohesive narrative, and getting all of the Charley Butters installments in one nice volume is definitely the way to read this story. In this interview Derek talks with Zach about the genesis of his project, the challenges involved in its serialization, the stark nature of the storytelling, and the experience of taking his protagonist down an ever-darkening downward spiral. Zach also discusses his other new work, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner, a magazine-sized comic whose tone is completely different from Charley Butters, looser, more comedic, and reminiscent of the kind of free-wheeling garage band- and tiki-influenced publications of the late 1960s. Thu, 10 May 2018 12:12:25 -0000 Another Interview with Zach Worton full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Self-Destruction and Tiki Bars Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:14 - Setup of interview 00:04:00 - Interview with Zach Worton 00:59:46 - Wrap up 01:00:27 - Contact us 01:01:46 - “Gotta Get You Outta My Head,” by Zorton and the Cannibals Zach Worton was last on the podcastabout two years ago, around the time of the publication of the second volume in his Charley Butters series, The Search for Charley Butters. On that interview show, Zach discussed the development of his storyline and what to expect in the third and final volume of the series, The Death of Charley Butters. As fate would have it, Zach and his publisher, Conundrum Press, decided to hold off on publishing the third stand-alone installment, and instead, put out the entire series in one complete volume. The result is The Curse of Charley Butters, just released last month, and including the first two Charley Butter stories and what would have been the third. In fact, this complete collection reads as a tight, cohesive narrative, and getting all of the Charley Butters installments in one nice volume is definitely the way to read this story. In this interview Derek talks with Zach about the genesis of his project, the challenges involved in its serialization, the stark nature of the storytelling, and the experience of taking his protagonist down an ever-darkening downward spiral. Zach also discusses his other new work, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner, a magazine-sized comic whose tone is completely different from Charley Butters, looser, more comedic, and reminiscent of the kind of free-wheeling garage band- and tiki-influenced publications of the late 1960s. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:14 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:00 - Interview with Zach Worton
  • 00:59:46 - Wrap up
  • 01:00:27 - Contact us
  • 01:01:46 - “Gotta Get You Outta My Head,” by Zorton and the Cannibals

Zach Worton was last on the podcastabout two years ago, around the time of the publication of the second volume in his Charley Butters series, The Search for Charley Butters. On that interview show, Zach discussed the development of his storyline and what to expect in the third and final volume of the series, The Death of Charley Butters. As fate would have it, Zach and his publisher, Conundrum Press, decided to hold off on publishing the third stand-alone installment, and instead, put out the entire series in one complete volume. The result is The Curse of Charley Butters, just released last month, and including the first two Charley Butter stories and what would have been the third. In fact, this complete collection reads as a tight, cohesive narrative, and getting all of the Charley Butters installments in one nice volume is definitely the way to read this story. In this interview Derek talks with Zach about the genesis of his project, the challenges involved in its serialization, the stark nature of the storytelling, and the experience of taking his protagonist down an ever-darkening downward spiral. Zach also discusses his other new work, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner, a magazine-sized comic whose tone is completely different from Charley Butters, looser, more comedic, and reminiscent of the kind of free-wheeling garage band- and tiki-influenced publications of the late 1960s.

]]> 3902 no Episode 279: The May Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-279-the-may-previews-catalog This week, Paul and Derek take an extensive look at the May Previews catalog. In fact, their look is so extensive that their discussion evolves into an extra-long episode, spanning almost three hours! (Then again, listeners of the podcast probably are used to these long Previews episodes.) The Two Guys begin by sharing listener mail, and then they make a few comments about some of the changes Diamond has made to their catalog over the past couple of months. After that, they jump into the nitty gritty of the episode, highlighting a variety of solicitations that catch their eye this month. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on are: Image Comics - Farmhand #1, Unnatural#1, The New World#1, Outpost Zero#1, and Memoirs of a Very Stable Genius Dark Horse Comics - The Quantum Age#1, She Could Fly#1, The Alcoholic: Tenth Anniversary Edition, and Criminy, Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - Astro City: Broken Melodyand Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles IDW Publishing - Real Science Adventures: The Nicodemus Job #1, Assassinistas, Euthanauts#1, Brat Pack, Full Bleed#2, Atomic Empire, and Corto Maltese: Tango Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Case Files, Vol. 1 BOOM! Studios - Bone Parish#1, Alice: From Dream to Dream, and Klaus: The New Adventures of Santa Claus Aftershock Comics - Relay#1 and Clan Killers#1 Amaze Ink/Slave Labor Graphics - Let Go Archie Comics - Archie Meets Batman '66#1 Avery Hill Publishing - Permanent Press Birdcage Bottom Books - In the Future, We Are Dead Drawn and Quarterly - Coyote Doggirland Art Comic Fantagraphics Books - I, Rene Tardi, Prisoner of War in Stalag 11B, Song of Aglaia, The Best of Witzend, The Kurdles Adventure Magazine#1, The Agency, and Constant Companion First Second - The Adventure Zone, Vol. 1and The Dam Keeper, Vol. 2 Gallery 13 - Bad Girls Graphix - Making Friends, Vol. 1and Smiley's Dream Book Picturebook Harper Collins Publishers - Action Presidents, Vol 3: Theodore Roosevelt Liveright - The Ghost Script Lion Forge -A Sea of Love, Herakles, and The Dream of the Butterfly Part 2 Oni Press - The Long Con#1 Secret Acres - Little Stranger Silver Sprocket - Girls Somos Arte, LLC - Ricanstruction: Reminiscing and Rebuilding Puerto Rico Titan Comics - McCay Twomorrows Publishing - American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1990s Uncivilized Books - The Clandestinauts VIZ Media - Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction, Vol. 2 Kodansha Comics - Grand Blue Dreaming, Vol. 1    Wed, 09 May 2018 11:50:23 -0000 A Discussion of the May Previews Catalog full 279 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It whets my appetite, and I don't know what the hell it's about" This week, Paul and Derek take an extensive look at the May Previews catalog. In fact, their look is so extensive that their discussion evolves into an extra-long episode, spanning almost three hours! (Then again, listeners of the podcast probably are used to these long Previews episodes.) The Two Guys begin by sharing listener mail, and then they make a few comments about some of the changes Diamond has made to their catalog over the past couple of months. After that, they jump into the nitty gritty of the episode, highlighting a variety of solicitations that catch their eye this month. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on are: Image Comics - Farmhand #1, Unnatural#1, The New World#1, Outpost Zero#1, and Memoirs of a Very Stable Genius Dark Horse Comics - The Quantum Age#1, She Could Fly#1, The Alcoholic: Tenth Anniversary Edition, and Criminy, Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - Astro City: Broken Melodyand Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles IDW Publishing - Real Science Adventures: The Nicodemus Job #1, Assassinistas, Euthanauts#1, Brat Pack, Full Bleed#2, Atomic Empire, and Corto Maltese: Tango Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Case Files, Vol. 1 BOOM! Studios - Bone Parish#1, Alice: From Dream to Dream, and Klaus: The New Adventures of Santa Claus Aftershock Comics - Relay#1 and Clan Killers#1 Amaze Ink/Slave Labor Graphics - Let Go Archie Comics - Archie Meets Batman '66#1 Avery Hill Publishing - Permanent Press Birdcage Bottom Books - In the Future, We Are Dead Drawn and Quarterly - Coyote Doggirland Art Comic Fantagraphics Books - I, Rene Tardi, Prisoner of War in Stalag 11B, Song of Aglaia, The Best of Witzend, The Kurdles Adventure Magazine#1, The Agency, and Constant Companion First Second - The Adventure Zone, Vol. 1and The Dam Keeper, Vol. 2 Gallery 13 - Bad Girls Graphix - Making Friends, Vol. 1and Smiley's Dream Book Picturebook Harper Collins Publishers - Action Presidents, Vol 3: Theodore Roosevelt Liveright - The Ghost Script Lion Forge -A Sea of Love, Herakles, and The Dream of the Butterfly Part 2 Oni Press - The Long Con#1 Secret Acres - Little Stranger Silver Sprocket - Girls Somos Arte, LLC - Ricanstruction: Reminiscing and Rebuilding Puerto Rico Titan Comics - McCay Twomorrows Publishing - American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1990s Uncivilized Books - The Clandestinauts VIZ Media - Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction, Vol. 2 Kodansha Comics - Grand Blue Dreaming, Vol. 1   

This week, Paul and Derek take an extensive look at the May Previews catalog. In fact, their look is so extensive that their discussion evolves into an extra-long episode, spanning almost three hours! (Then again, listeners of the podcast probably are used to these long Previews episodes.) The Two Guys begin by sharing listener mail, and then they make a few comments about some of the changes Diamond has made to their catalog over the past couple of months. After that, they jump into the nitty gritty of the episode, highlighting a variety of solicitations that catch their eye this month. Among the many publishers and titles that they focus on are:

  

]]> 10486 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Pat Palermo http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-pat-palermo Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:41 - Setup of interview 00:04:04 - Interview with Pat Palermo 01:06:50 - Wrap up 01:07:33 - Contact us Pat Palermo is an artist and Xeric Award-winning cartoonist living and working in Brooklyn. In fact, the intersection of “living and working” is the subject matter of his new series coming out from AdHouse Books, LIVE/WORK. The first issue of this magazine-sized comic came out last month, and it’s an ensemble narrative concerning the exploits of New York artists as they try to make their marks in the art world, while at the same time worrying about their living arrangements. In this episode of the interview series, Derek talks with Pat about the origins of his new series, how it began as a self-published endeavor, the autobiographical links embedded among his ensemble cast, and his thoughts on writing in a more realistic or slice-of-life mode – what's been called before on The Comics Alternative, verite dessinée. Along the way Pat discusses his own non-comics art endeavors, his Galveston Diary Project, and the ways in which his work in fine arts informs his cartooning…and vice versa. Tue, 08 May 2018 11:47:23 -0000 An Interview with Pat Palermo full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Art and Life Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:41 - Setup of interview 00:04:04 - Interview with Pat Palermo 01:06:50 - Wrap up 01:07:33 - Contact us Pat Palermo is an artist and Xeric Award-winning cartoonist living and working in Brooklyn. In fact, the intersection of “living and working” is the subject matter of his new series coming out from AdHouse Books, LIVE/WORK. The first issue of this magazine-sized comic came out last month, and it’s an ensemble narrative concerning the exploits of New York artists as they try to make their marks in the art world, while at the same time worrying about their living arrangements. In this episode of the interview series, Derek talks with Pat about the origins of his new series, how it began as a self-published endeavor, the autobiographical links embedded among his ensemble cast, and his thoughts on writing in a more realistic or slice-of-life mode – what's been called before on The Comics Alternative, verite dessinée. Along the way Pat discusses his own non-comics art endeavors, his Galveston Diary Project, and the ways in which his work in fine arts informs his cartooning…and vice versa. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:41 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:04 - Interview with Pat Palermo
  • 01:06:50 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:33 - Contact us

Pat Palermo is an artist and Xeric Award-winning cartoonist living and working in Brooklyn. In fact, the intersection of “living and working” is the subject matter of his new series coming out from AdHouse Books, LIVE/WORK. The first issue of this magazine-sized comic came out last month, and it’s an ensemble narrative concerning the exploits of New York artists as they try to make their marks in the art world, while at the same time worrying about their living arrangements. In this episode of the interview series, Derek talks with Pat about the origins of his new series, how it began as a self-published endeavor, the autobiographical links embedded among his ensemble cast, and his thoughts on writing in a more realistic or slice-of-life mode – what's been called before on The Comics Alternative, verite dessinée. Along the way Pat discusses his own non-comics art endeavors, his Galveston Diary Project, and the ways in which his work in fine arts informs his cartooning…and vice versa.

]]> 4223 yes On Location: FCBD at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-fcbd-at-heroes-arent-hard-to-find For the May on-location episode, Derek is back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for Free Comic Book Day. This is a big occasion, and business at Heroes was bustling and crowded, with customers lining up to get in as early as 5:30 am. In fact, this show was recorded outside of the shop where things were less chaotic. Joining Derek was Zyg (who has become a regular at these on-location shows), David, Adam, Jake, and Emily. Everyone talks about the various FCBD titles and which ones they're particularly drawn to, but they also discuss other comics-related topics, such as the recent Avengers movie, the kind of comics that they're currently reading, and upcoming titles that they're particularly looking forward to. Mon, 07 May 2018 11:12:01 -0000 On Location for FCBD at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Discoveries For the May on-location episode, Derek is back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for Free Comic Book Day. This is a big occasion, and business at Heroes was bustling and crowded, with customers lining up to get in as early as 5:30 am. In fact, this show was recorded outside of the shop where things were less chaotic. Joining Derek was Zyg (who has become a regular at these on-location shows), David, Adam, Jake, and Emily. Everyone talks about the various FCBD titles and which ones they're particularly drawn to, but they also discuss other comics-related topics, such as the recent Avengers movie, the kind of comics that they're currently reading, and upcoming titles that they're particularly looking forward to.

For the May on-location episode, Derek is back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for Free Comic Book Day. This is a big occasion, and business at Heroes was bustling and crowded, with customers lining up to get in as early as 5:30 am. In fact, this show was recorded outside of the shop where things were less chaotic. Joining Derek was Zyg (who has become a regular at these on-location shows), David, Adam, Jake, and Emily. Everyone talks about the various FCBD titles and which ones they're particularly drawn to, but they also discuss other comics-related topics, such as the recent Avengers movie, the kind of comics that they're currently reading, and upcoming titles that they're particularly looking forward to.

]]> 3994 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: The Secret Voice, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-the-secret-voice-vol-1 Derek talks with Zack Sot0 about his Kickstarter project The Secret Voice, Vol. 1. Zack describes it as "as psychedelic fantasy epic" filled with psychic warrior monks, wild kung fu magic battles, monsters, and even a bit of romance. Over the coals of their conversation, Zack discusses the origins of The Secret Voice in a minicomic, its development as a webcomic and then a comic book, and its maturation as a book-length narrative. The creator describes the premise this way: Doctor Galapagos, a goggled, bandaged mystery man is just one of many agents of the ineffable Red College that we meet in the pages of The Secret Voice. Doctor Galapagos is our hero, our mystic battle man on the spot. He seems wildly capable of facing any and all hand to hand combatants. But Dr. G isn't justbattling hundreds of angry trolls or brigands all at once, he's also fighting an unseen, unknown, psychic menace. He's finding his grip on reality becoming more and more tenuous, just when he needs it the most. There are a variety of reward levels to choose from, as well, including not only the book -- in both digital and hardcopy format -- but swag, original art, and prints. This is a fun story that the Two Guys have discussed on a past episode of the webcomics series, so you know it's worth checking out. So what are you waiting for? Back The Secret Voice, Vol. 1! Cover and Sample Art Sat, 05 May 2018 11:42:19 -0000 Kickstarting The Secret Voice, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Psychedelic Fantasy Epic Derek talks with Zack Sot0 about his Kickstarter project The Secret Voice, Vol. 1. Zack describes it as "as psychedelic fantasy epic" filled with psychic warrior monks, wild kung fu magic battles, monsters, and even a bit of romance. Over the coals of their conversation, Zack discusses the origins of The Secret Voice in a minicomic, its development as a webcomic and then a comic book, and its maturation as a book-length narrative. The creator describes the premise this way: Doctor Galapagos, a goggled, bandaged mystery man is just one of many agents of the ineffable Red College that we meet in the pages of The Secret Voice. Doctor Galapagos is our hero, our mystic battle man on the spot. He seems wildly capable of facing any and all hand to hand combatants. But Dr. G isn't justbattling hundreds of angry trolls or brigands all at once, he's also fighting an unseen, unknown, psychic menace. He's finding his grip on reality becoming more and more tenuous, just when he needs it the most. There are a variety of reward levels to choose from, as well, including not only the book -- in both digital and hardcopy format -- but swag, original art, and prints. This is a fun story that the Two Guys have discussed on a past episode of the webcomics series, so you know it's worth checking out. So what are you waiting for? Back The Secret Voice, Vol. 1! Cover and Sample Art

Derek talks with Zack Sot0 about his Kickstarter project The Secret Voice, Vol. 1. Zack describes it as "as psychedelic fantasy epic" filled with psychic warrior monks, wild kung fu magic battles, monsters, and even a bit of romance.

Over the coals of their conversation, Zack discusses the origins of The Secret Voice in a minicomic, its development as a webcomic and then a comic book, and its maturation as a book-length narrative. The creator describes the premise this way:

Doctor Galapagos, a goggled, bandaged mystery man is just one of many agents of the ineffable Red College that we meet in the pages of The Secret Voice. Doctor Galapagos is our hero, our mystic battle man on the spot. He seems wildly capable of facing any and all hand to hand combatants. But Dr. G isn't justbattling hundreds of angry trolls or brigands all at once, he's also fighting an unseen, unknown, psychic menace. He's finding his grip on reality becoming more and more tenuous, just when he needs it the most.

There are a variety of reward levels to choose from, as well, including not only the book -- in both digital and hardcopy format -- but swag, original art, and prints. This is a fun story that the Two Guys have discussed on a past episode of the webcomics series, so you know it's worth checking out. So what are you waiting for? Back The Secret Voice, Vol. 1!

Cover and Sample Art

]]> 1277 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Hazel Newlevant http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-hazel-newlevant Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:19 - Setup of interview 03:38 - Interview with Hazel Newlevant 53:01 - Wrap up 53:31 - Contact us Hazel Newlevant is an artist and editor, known for their graphic novella Sugar Town, which they call “a queer poly rom-com,” as well as Tender-Hearted, winner of the 2017 Ignatz Award for outstanding minicomic. In 2016 the Two Guys discussed Hazel’s edited collection, Chainmail Bikini, an anthology of comics by and about women games released in 2016, and for which Hazel served as editor. Earlier this year they have had two other collections where they served as co-editor: Puerto Rico Strong, released in March by Lion Forge, and Comics for Choice: Illustrated Abortion Stories, History, and Politics, an anthology of comics about abortion and reproductive rights published by Alternative Comics. During this interview, Derek talks with Hazel primarily about Comics for Choice, but they also discuss some of their other work as well, including their many efforts as an editor within the comics industry.   Fri, 04 May 2018 11:22:11 -0000 An Interview with Hazel Newlevant full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Freedom of Choice Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:19 - Setup of interview 03:38 - Interview with Hazel Newlevant 53:01 - Wrap up 53:31 - Contact us Hazel Newlevant is an artist and editor, known for their graphic novella Sugar Town, which they call “a queer poly rom-com,” as well as Tender-Hearted, winner of the 2017 Ignatz Award for outstanding minicomic. In 2016 the Two Guys discussed Hazel’s edited collection, Chainmail Bikini, an anthology of comics by and about women games released in 2016, and for which Hazel served as editor. Earlier this year they have had two other collections where they served as co-editor: Puerto Rico Strong, released in March by Lion Forge, and Comics for Choice: Illustrated Abortion Stories, History, and Politics, an anthology of comics about abortion and reproductive rights published by Alternative Comics. During this interview, Derek talks with Hazel primarily about Comics for Choice, but they also discuss some of their other work as well, including their many efforts as an editor within the comics industry.   Time Codes:

  • 00:25 - Introduction
  • 02:19 - Setup of interview
  • 03:38 - Interview with Hazel Newlevant
  • 53:01 - Wrap up
  • 53:31 - Contact us

Hazel Newlevant is an artist and editor, known for their graphic novella Sugar Town, which they call “a queer poly rom-com,” as well as Tender-Hearted, winner of the 2017 Ignatz Award for outstanding minicomic. In 2016 the Two Guys discussed Hazel’s edited collection, Chainmail Bikini, an anthology of comics by and about women games released in 2016, and for which Hazel served as editor. Earlier this year they have had two other collections where they served as co-editor: Puerto Rico Strong, released in March by Lion Forge, and Comics for Choice: Illustrated Abortion Stories, History, and Politics, an anthology of comics about abortion and reproductive rights published by Alternative Comics. During this interview, Derek talks with Hazel primarily about Comics for Choice, but they also discuss some of their other work as well, including their many efforts as an editor within the comics industry.

 

]]> 3381 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-mairghread-scott-and-robin-robinson Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:03:58 - Interview with Mairghread Scottand Robin Robinson 01:03:26 - Wrap up 01:04:32 - Contact us First Second has recently published The City on the Other Side, a historically based fantasy written by Mairghread Scott and with art by Robin Robinson. Gwen and Derek talk with the creators about their new book, the genesis behind the concept, and their decision to base their narrative in San Francisco. This is a compelling story that should have wide appeal, and not only with younger readers. Over the course of the conversation, Mairghread and Robin share their experiences researching various cultures' folklore (upon which many of the figures are based), the importance of character design, their methods of collaboration, and the significance of maps. Wed, 02 May 2018 23:15:58 -0000 An Interview with Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal If You're Going to San Francisco Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:03:58 - Interview with Mairghread Scottand Robin Robinson 01:03:26 - Wrap up 01:04:32 - Contact us First Second has recently published The City on the Other Side, a historically based fantasy written by Mairghread Scott and with art by Robin Robinson. Gwen and Derek talk with the creators about their new book, the genesis behind the concept, and their decision to base their narrative in San Francisco. This is a compelling story that should have wide appeal, and not only with younger readers. Over the course of the conversation, Mairghread and Robin share their experiences researching various cultures' folklore (upon which many of the figures are based), the importance of character design, their methods of collaboration, and the significance of maps. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:49 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:58 - Interview with Mairghread Scottand Robin Robinson
  • 01:03:26 - Wrap up
  • 01:04:32 - Contact us

First Second has recently published The City on the Other Side, a historically based fantasy written by Mairghread Scott and with art by Robin Robinson. Gwen and Derek talk with the creators about their new book, the genesis behind the concept, and their decision to base their narrative in San Francisco. This is a compelling story that should have wide appeal, and not only with younger readers. Over the course of the conversation, Mairghread and Robin share their experiences researching various cultures' folklore (upon which many of the figures are based), the importance of character design, their methods of collaboration, and the significance of maps.

]]> 4066 no Episode 278: Reviews of Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus, Death or Glory #1, and Black [AF]: Widows and Orphans #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-278-reviews-of-terminal-lance-ultimate-omnibus-death-or-glory-1-and-black-af-widows-and-orphans-1 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:09 - A few words (and a gripe) about the 2018 Eisner Award nominations 00:11:02 - Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus 00:37:29 - Death or Glory#1 00:47:28 - Black [AF]: Widows and Orphans#1 01:03:08 - Wrap up 01:04:46 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek focus on three titles that are strikingly different in nature. They begin with Maximilian Uriarte's Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus: The World's Most Popular Military Comic Strip(Little Brown and Company). This is a hardbound volume of the entries included on Uriarte's webcomic, and it collects strips published between January 2010 and December 2016, most of what you'll find on the site. Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus also include the strips published in the Marine Corps Times. Although the guys know next to nothing about military (specifically Marine) life, they approach this text on its own terms and with a full awareness of its intended audience. Next, they look at Rick Remender and Bengal's Death or Glory #1(Image Comics). Both of the guys marvel over Bengal's art, pointing out that the visuals are what largely drive the narrative in this first issue. But both are also fans of Remender's work, and as Paul points out, this new title bears many of his stylistic stamps. This is a title that has a lot of promise, and it's yet another Remender series for the guys to keep up with. Finally, Paul and Derek discuss something never before covered on The Comics Alternative: a title from Black Mask Studios. The first issue in Kwanza Osajyefo and Tim Smith 3's Black [AF]: Widows and Orphanshas recently been released, and the guys speculate on this ancillary tale in the Blackstoryworld. Although Paul is familiar with this universe, this is Derek's first foray into Black. As the guys discuss, this is an action-packed first issue, although at times a bit chaotic. Some of this confusion, in fact, may be due to the visuals. Nonetheless, it's a title worth checking out. Tue, 01 May 2018 22:05:15 -0000 Reviews of Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus, Death or Glory #1, and Black [AF]: Widows and Orphans #1 full 278 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Difference Is Good Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:09 - A few words (and a gripe) about the 2018 Eisner Award nominations 00:11:02 - Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus 00:37:29 - Death or Glory#1 00:47:28 - Black [AF]: Widows and Orphans#1 01:03:08 - Wrap up 01:04:46 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek focus on three titles that are strikingly different in nature. They begin with Maximilian Uriarte's Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus: The World's Most Popular Military Comic Strip(Little Brown and Company). This is a hardbound volume of the entries included on Uriarte's webcomic, and it collects strips published between January 2010 and December 2016, most of what you'll find on the site. Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus also include the strips published in the Marine Corps Times. Although the guys know next to nothing about military (specifically Marine) life, they approach this text on its own terms and with a full awareness of its intended audience. Next, they look at Rick Remender and Bengal's Death or Glory #1(Image Comics). Both of the guys marvel over Bengal's art, pointing out that the visuals are what largely drive the narrative in this first issue. But both are also fans of Remender's work, and as Paul points out, this new title bears many of his stylistic stamps. This is a title that has a lot of promise, and it's yet another Remender series for the guys to keep up with. Finally, Paul and Derek discuss something never before covered on The Comics Alternative: a title from Black Mask Studios. The first issue in Kwanza Osajyefo and Tim Smith 3's Black [AF]: Widows and Orphanshas recently been released, and the guys speculate on this ancillary tale in the Blackstoryworld. Although Paul is familiar with this universe, this is Derek's first foray into Black. As the guys discuss, this is an action-packed first issue, although at times a bit chaotic. Some of this confusion, in fact, may be due to the visuals. Nonetheless, it's a title worth checking out. Time Codes:

This week Paul and Derek focus on three titles that are strikingly different in nature. They begin with Maximilian Uriarte's Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus: The World's Most Popular Military Comic Strip(Little Brown and Company). This is a hardbound volume of the entries included on Uriarte's webcomic, and it collects strips published between January 2010 and December 2016, most of what you'll find on the site. Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus also include the strips published in the Marine Corps Times. Although the guys know next to nothing about military (specifically Marine) life, they approach this text on its own terms and with a full awareness of its intended audience.

Next, they look at Rick Remender and Bengal's Death or Glory #1(Image Comics). Both of the guys marvel over Bengal's art, pointing out that the visuals are what largely drive the narrative in this first issue. But both are also fans of Remender's work, and as Paul points out, this new title bears many of his stylistic stamps. This is a title that has a lot of promise, and it's yet another Remender series for the guys to keep up with.

Finally, Paul and Derek discuss something never before covered on The Comics Alternative: a title from Black Mask Studios. The first issue in Kwanza Osajyefo and Tim Smith 3's Black [AF]: Widows and Orphanshas recently been released, and the guys speculate on this ancillary tale in the Blackstoryworld. Although Paul is familiar with this universe, this is Derek's first foray into Black. As the guys discuss, this is an action-packed first issue, although at times a bit chaotic. Some of this confusion, in fact, may be due to the visuals. Nonetheless, it's a title worth checking out.

]]> 4065 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-neal-adams-rafael-medoff-and-craig-yoe Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:03:51 - Interview with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe 01:05:12 - Wrap up 01:05:48 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe about their new book We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust(Yoe Books/IDW Publishing). All three of these guests have been on the podcast before. Derek briefly interviewed Neal Adams at a couple of different cons, releasing those conversations as part of our on-location convention shows. Rafael Medoff was part of the special roundtable on politics and comicsthat was releases on election eve 2016. And of course, as listeners of the podcast well know, Craig Yoe has been on the show so many timesthat it's easy to lose count. What makes this such a notable episode is that all three of these guys come together at the same time to talk about their new book. Each comes with his own set of experiences with this collection, but what comes across so clearly in the interview is how Neal, Rafael, and Craig easily play off of one another and become a compelling creative team. In fact, Derek talked with them right before they headed over to the American Jewish Historical Society in New York for the book’s official launch. Tue, 01 May 2018 12:03:03 -0000 An Interview with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Giving Visual Voice Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:03:51 - Interview with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe 01:05:12 - Wrap up 01:05:48 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe about their new book We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust(Yoe Books/IDW Publishing). All three of these guests have been on the podcast before. Derek briefly interviewed Neal Adams at a couple of different cons, releasing those conversations as part of our on-location convention shows. Rafael Medoff was part of the special roundtable on politics and comicsthat was releases on election eve 2016. And of course, as listeners of the podcast well know, Craig Yoe has been on the show so many timesthat it's easy to lose count. What makes this such a notable episode is that all three of these guys come together at the same time to talk about their new book. Each comes with his own set of experiences with this collection, but what comes across so clearly in the interview is how Neal, Rafael, and Craig easily play off of one another and become a compelling creative team. In fact, Derek talked with them right before they headed over to the American Jewish Historical Society in New York for the book’s official launch. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:28 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:51 - Interview with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe
  • 01:05:12 - Wrap up
  • 01:05:48 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Neal Adams, Rafael Medoff, and Craig Yoe about their new book We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust(Yoe Books/IDW Publishing). All three of these guests have been on the podcast before. Derek briefly interviewed Neal Adams at a couple of different cons, releasing those conversations as part of our on-location convention shows. Rafael Medoff was part of the special roundtable on politics and comicsthat was releases on election eve 2016. And of course, as listeners of the podcast well know, Craig Yoe has been on the show so many timesthat it's easy to lose count. What makes this such a notable episode is that all three of these guys come together at the same time to talk about their new book. Each comes with his own set of experiences with this collection, but what comes across so clearly in the interview is how Neal, Rafael, and Craig easily play off of one another and become a compelling creative team. In fact, Derek talked with them right before they headed over to the American Jewish Historical Society in New York for the book’s official launch.

]]> 4120 no Young Readers: Reviews of The Dragon Slayer and The Lost Path, and a Discussion of the Children's Comics-Related Book Market http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-the-dragon-slayer-and-the-lost-path-and-a-discussion-of-the-childrens-comics-related-book-market Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:03:21 - Setup of the discussion 00:04:00 - The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America  00:27:07 - The Lost Path 00:47:59 - A discussion of the children's comics-related book market 01:10:32 - Wrap up 01:11:47 - Contact us In this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers Show, Gwen and Paul review two new releases, both of which have a connection to folklore and fairy tales: Jaime Hernandez’s The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America from Toon Graphics, and Amélie Fléchais and Jonathan Garnier’s The Lost Path from Lion Forge Comics’ children’s imprint, Cub House. Additionally, Paul and Gwen discuss Brian Hibb’s “Tilting at Windmills #268: Looking at BookScan 2017,” an overview of comics sales that demonstrates that the children’s and YA market continues to grow and that young people are getting comics in a variety of venues, from direct distribution at comics shops to major booksellers to Comixology. In Part I of the show, Paul and Gwen embark on a detailed discussion of The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America, a text that includes three short tales, “The Dragon Slayer” and “Tup and the Ants,” both written and drawn by Jaime Hernandez, and “Martina Martínez and Pérez the Mouse,” a collaboration between children’s author Alma Flor Ada and Hernandez. The text begins with a short essay, “Imagination and Tradition,” by noted author F. Isabel Campoy that helps to contextualize the various fairy tales, or “cuentos” that have emerged from the diverse oral and literary traditions, which Campoy terms “a unique blend of Old World and New, spanning a continent across many geographic boundaries and cultures.” Campoy mentions specifically the Catholic, Jewish, Arab, and Moorish influences upon the Spanish, whose tales then encountered those of indigenous peoples from “the Maya, Aztec, Inca, and other Native American cultures.” At the end of the text, Campoy and Ada provide context for the three folktales, as well as a bibliography, and information on the authors. The editors at Toon Graphic have released a paperback Spanish language edition of the text, La Matadragones: Cuentos de Lationoamérica,” and Paul mentions the value of these books in dual language classrooms. Gwen and Paul then consider the way that The Dragon Slayer fits into Jaime Hernandez’s long and storied career, and they mention both the humor inherent in the stories and the way that Hernandez’s characteristic clear line style conveys characters’ feelings and reactions. The fact that all three tales feature strong women is something that Paul highlights, noting that these tales provide a much-needed emphasis on girls and women who stand up for themselves and serve as problem solvers. Next, the duo talks about Amélie Fléchais and Jonathan Garnier’s The Lost Path, a vibrant adventure story that includes references to classic fairy tales, Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are, and Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Gwen notes the text’s similarity to other contemporary comics in which young people pass through to a magical land where conflict is brewing – she mentions specifically Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson’s recently released The City on the Other Side (First Second) as an example, while Paul praises the text’s style, from the gorgeous water color page-length spreads to the black and white sketches, which are rich in detail and artistry. The show concludes with Paul and Gwen discussing the rise in hybrid comics, as well as implications that they have drawn from reading Brian Hibb’s latest report on comics sales. Mon, 30 Apr 2018 20:16:54 -0000 Reviews of The Dragon Slayer and The Lost Path full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hurling Children over Cliffs Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:03:21 - Setup of the discussion 00:04:00 - The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America  00:27:07 - The Lost Path 00:47:59 - A discussion of the children's comics-related book market 01:10:32 - Wrap up 01:11:47 - Contact us In this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers Show, Gwen and Paul review two new releases, both of which have a connection to folklore and fairy tales: Jaime Hernandez’s The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America from Toon Graphics, and Amélie Fléchais and Jonathan Garnier’s The Lost Path from Lion Forge Comics’ children’s imprint, Cub House. Additionally, Paul and Gwen discuss Brian Hibb’s “Tilting at Windmills #268: Looking at BookScan 2017,” an overview of comics sales that demonstrates that the children’s and YA market continues to grow and that young people are getting comics in a variety of venues, from direct distribution at comics shops to major booksellers to Comixology. In Part I of the show, Paul and Gwen embark on a detailed discussion of The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America, a text that includes three short tales, “The Dragon Slayer” and “Tup and the Ants,” both written and drawn by Jaime Hernandez, and “Martina Martínez and Pérez the Mouse,” a collaboration between children’s author Alma Flor Ada and Hernandez. The text begins with a short essay, “Imagination and Tradition,” by noted author F. Isabel Campoy that helps to contextualize the various fairy tales, or “cuentos” that have emerged from the diverse oral and literary traditions, which Campoy terms “a unique blend of Old World and New, spanning a continent across many geographic boundaries and cultures.” Campoy mentions specifically the Catholic, Jewish, Arab, and Moorish influences upon the Spanish, whose tales then encountered those of indigenous peoples from “the Maya, Aztec, Inca, and other Native American cultures.” At the end of the text, Campoy and Ada provide context for the three folktales, as well as a bibliography, and information on the authors. The editors at Toon Graphic have released a paperback Spanish language edition of the text, La Matadragones: Cuentos de Lationoamérica,” and Paul mentions the value of these books in dual language classrooms. Gwen and Paul then consider the way that The Dragon Slayer fits into Jaime Hernandez’s long and storied career, and they mention both the humor inherent in the stories and the way that Hernandez’s characteristic clear line style conveys characters’ feelings and reactions. The fact that all three tales feature strong women is something that Paul highlights, noting that these tales provide a much-needed emphasis on girls and women who stand up for themselves and serve as problem solvers. Next, the duo talks about Amélie Fléchais and Jonathan Garnier’s The Lost Path, a vibrant adventure story that includes references to classic fairy tales, Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are, and Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Gwen notes the text’s similarity to other contemporary comics in which young people pass through to a magical land where conflict is brewing – she mentions specifically Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson’s recently released The City on the Other Side (First Second) as an example, while Paul praises the text’s style, from the gorgeous water color page-length spreads to the black and white sketches, which are rich in detail and artistry. The show concludes with Paul and Gwen discussing the rise in hybrid comics, as well as implications that they have drawn from reading Brian Hibb’s latest report on comics sales. Time Codes:

In this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers Show, Gwen and Paul review two new releases, both of which have a connection to folklore and fairy tales: Jaime Hernandez’s The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America from Toon Graphics, and Amélie Fléchais and Jonathan Garnier’s The Lost Path from Lion Forge Comics’ children’s imprint, Cub House. Additionally, Paul and Gwen discuss Brian Hibb’s “Tilting at Windmills #268: Looking at BookScan 2017,” an overview of comics sales that demonstrates that the children’s and YA market continues to grow and that young people are getting comics in a variety of venues, from direct distribution at comics shops to major booksellers to Comixology.

In Part I of the show, Paul and Gwen embark on a detailed discussion of The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America, a text that includes three short tales, “The Dragon Slayer” and “Tup and the Ants,” both written and drawn by Jaime Hernandez, and “Martina Martínez and Pérez the Mouse,” a collaboration between children’s author Alma Flor Ada and Hernandez. The text begins with a short essay, “Imagination and Tradition,” by noted author F. Isabel Campoy that helps to contextualize the various fairy tales, or “cuentos” that have emerged from the diverse oral and literary traditions, which Campoy terms “a unique blend of Old World and New, spanning a continent across many geographic boundaries and cultures.” Campoy mentions specifically the Catholic, Jewish, Arab, and Moorish influences upon the Spanish, whose tales then encountered those of indigenous peoples from “the Maya, Aztec, Inca, and other Native American cultures.” At the end of the text, Campoy and Ada provide context for the three folktales, as well as a bibliography, and information on the authors. The editors at Toon Graphic have released a paperback Spanish language edition of the text, La Matadragones: Cuentos de Lationoamérica,” and Paul mentions the value of these books in dual language classrooms.

Gwen and Paul then consider the way that The Dragon Slayer fits into Jaime Hernandez’s long and storied career, and they mention both the humor inherent in the stories and the way that Hernandez’s characteristic clear line style conveys characters’ feelings and reactions. The fact that all three tales feature strong women is something that Paul highlights, noting that these tales provide a much-needed emphasis on girls and women who stand up for themselves and serve as problem solvers.

Next, the duo talks about Amélie Fléchais and Jonathan Garnier’s The Lost Path, a vibrant adventure story that includes references to classic fairy tales, Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are, and Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Gwen notes the text’s similarity to other contemporary comics in which young people pass through to a magical land where conflict is brewing – she mentions specifically Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson’s recently released The City on the Other Side (First Second) as an example, while Paul praises the text’s style, from the gorgeous water color page-length spreads to the black and white sketches, which are rich in detail and artistry.

The show concludes with Paul and Gwen discussing the rise in hybrid comics, as well as implications that they have drawn from reading Brian Hibb’s latest report on comics sales.

]]> 4567 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Eric: A Graphic Novel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-eric-a-graphic-novel Play It Again This weekend Derek talks with Tom Manning about his Kickstarter campaign Eric: A Graphic Novel. This is a substantive graphic novel about a fictional musician with a wild and memorable life. Eric, once a popular Los Angeles musician in the ’60s and ’70s, is now is a drug-addled relic grappling with his irrelevance. But, after he snaps on live TV while promoting his greatest hits album, Eric finds himself in the center of what may be a terrifying conspiracy spanning multiple realities. Tom Manning describes his project as TheBig Lebowski meets Jacob’s Ladder. Ericis a graphic novel about Americana, and the horrific implications found just beneath its pop and artifice. Be sure to back Eric: A Graphic Novel! Sample Art Sat, 28 Apr 2018 19:35:22 -0000 Kickstarting Eric: A Graphic Novel full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Play It Again Play It Again This weekend Derek talks with Tom Manning about his Kickstarter campaign Eric: A Graphic Novel. This is a substantive graphic novel about a fictional musician with a wild and memorable life. Eric, once a popular Los Angeles musician in the ’60s and ’70s, is now is a drug-addled relic grappling with his irrelevance. But, after he snaps on live TV while promoting his greatest hits album, Eric finds himself in the center of what may be a terrifying conspiracy spanning multiple realities. Tom Manning describes his project as TheBig Lebowski meets Jacob’s Ladder. Ericis a graphic novel about Americana, and the horrific implications found just beneath its pop and artifice. Be sure to back Eric: A Graphic Novel! Sample Art Play It Again

This weekend Derek talks with Tom Manning about his Kickstarter campaign Eric: A Graphic Novel. This is a substantive graphic novel about a fictional musician with a wild and memorable life.

Eric, once a popular Los Angeles musician in the ’60s and ’70s, is now is a drug-addled relic grappling with his irrelevance. But, after he snaps on live TV while promoting his greatest hits album, Eric finds himself in the center of what may be a terrifying conspiracy spanning multiple realities.

Tom Manning describes his project as TheBig Lebowski meets Jacob’s Ladder. Ericis a graphic novel about Americana, and the horrific implications found just beneath its pop and artifice. Be sure to back Eric: A Graphic Novel!

Sample Art

]]> 1197 no On Location: The April Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-april-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find It's the April on-location visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. As he usually does, Derek is at the shop talking with customers about comics-related matters. But his time at Heroes also corresponds with the visit of Queens University Prof. Michael Kobre’s class, "Secret Identities, Diversity, and Popular Culture."     Thu, 26 Apr 2018 17:00:00 -0000 The April On-Location Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Secret Identities It's the April on-location visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. As he usually does, Derek is at the shop talking with customers about comics-related matters. But his time at Heroes also corresponds with the visit of Queens University Prof. Michael Kobre’s class, "Secret Identities, Diversity, and Popular Culture."    

It's the April on-location visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC. As he usually does, Derek is at the shop talking with customers about comics-related matters. But his time at Heroes also corresponds with the visit of Queens University Prof. Michael Kobre’s class, "Secret Identities, Diversity, and Popular Culture."

 

 

]]> 3749 no Episode 277: Reviews of Von Spatz, Skyward #1, and Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-277-reviews-of-von-spatz-skyward-1-and-resident-alien-an-alien-in-new-york-1 Paul and Derek discuss Anna Haifisch's Von Spatz, Joe Henderson and Lee Garbett's Skyward #1, and Peter Hogan and Steve Parkhouse's Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1. Wed, 25 Apr 2018 13:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Von Spatz, Skyward #1, and Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1 full 277 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Up in the Air Paul and Derek discuss Anna Haifisch's Von Spatz, Joe Henderson and Lee Garbett's Skyward #1, and Peter Hogan and Steve Parkhouse's Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1.

Paul and Derek discuss Anna Haifisch's Von Spatz, Joe Henderson and Lee Garbett's Skyward #1, and Peter Hogan and Steve Parkhouse's Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1.

]]> 5823 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-paul-karasik-and-mark-newgarden Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 03:02 - Setup of interview 05:10 - Interview with Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden 56:08 - Wrap up 58:29 - Contact us Gene and Derek are happy to have on the podcast Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden. Their book How to Read Nancy: The Elements of Comics in Three Easy Panelswas released last fall from Fantagraphics Books. The authors are back on the circuit discussing their close reading of Ernie Bushmiller, but they took time to talk with the Two Guys about their landmark work. Over the course of the conversation, Mark and Paul reveal their history reading the Nancystrip, their original "How to Read Nancy" essayand the book that grew from there, the educational function of their detailed analysis, the work -- research, technological, and otherwise -- that went into this project, and, of course, there's the August 8, 1959 comic strip itself that comes under such meticulous scrutiny. Over the course of 44 steps, Paul and Mark pick apart this Nancystrip with painstaking detail. But How to Read Nancyalso includes a thorough biography overview of Ernie Bushmiller, multiple appendixes that provide abundant cultural and aesthetic context, and a "Do It Yourself" section where readers can apply the analytical skills they learn from the text. This is a must-read for every student of comics, creators and critics alike. A big THANK YOU to Craig Yoe, who actually planted the idea for this interview and became its chief encourager!   Thu, 12 Apr 2018 12:16:28 -0000 An Interview with Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Why Nancy...Again? Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 03:02 - Setup of interview 05:10 - Interview with Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden 56:08 - Wrap up 58:29 - Contact us Gene and Derek are happy to have on the podcast Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden. Their book How to Read Nancy: The Elements of Comics in Three Easy Panelswas released last fall from Fantagraphics Books. The authors are back on the circuit discussing their close reading of Ernie Bushmiller, but they took time to talk with the Two Guys about their landmark work. Over the course of the conversation, Mark and Paul reveal their history reading the Nancystrip, their original "How to Read Nancy" essayand the book that grew from there, the educational function of their detailed analysis, the work -- research, technological, and otherwise -- that went into this project, and, of course, there's the August 8, 1959 comic strip itself that comes under such meticulous scrutiny. Over the course of 44 steps, Paul and Mark pick apart this Nancystrip with painstaking detail. But How to Read Nancyalso includes a thorough biography overview of Ernie Bushmiller, multiple appendixes that provide abundant cultural and aesthetic context, and a "Do It Yourself" section where readers can apply the analytical skills they learn from the text. This is a must-read for every student of comics, creators and critics alike. A big THANK YOU to Craig Yoe, who actually planted the idea for this interview and became its chief encourager!   Time Codes:

  • 00:26 - Introduction
  • 03:02 - Setup of interview
  • 05:10 - Interview with Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden
  • 56:08 - Wrap up
  • 58:29 - Contact us

Gene and Derek are happy to have on the podcast Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden. Their book How to Read Nancy: The Elements of Comics in Three Easy Panelswas released last fall from Fantagraphics Books. The authors are back on the circuit discussing their close reading of Ernie Bushmiller, but they took time to talk with the Two Guys about their landmark work. Over the course of the conversation, Mark and Paul reveal their history reading the Nancystrip, their original "How to Read Nancy" essayand the book that grew from there, the educational function of their detailed analysis, the work -- research, technological, and otherwise -- that went into this project, and, of course, there's the August 8, 1959 comic strip itself that comes under such meticulous scrutiny. Over the course of 44 steps, Paul and Mark pick apart this Nancystrip with painstaking detail. But How to Read Nancyalso includes a thorough biography overview of Ernie Bushmiller, multiple appendixes that provide abundant cultural and aesthetic context, and a "Do It Yourself" section where readers can apply the analytical skills they learn from the text. This is a must-read for every student of comics, creators and critics alike.

A big THANK YOU to Craig Yoe, who actually planted the idea for this interview and became its chief encourager!

 

]]> 3705 no Episode 276: Reviews of Milk Wars, Motor Girl Omnibus, and Strangers in Paradise XXV #1 & #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-276-reviews-of-milk-wars-motor-girl-omnibus-and-strangers-in-paradise-xxv-1-2 Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Catching up with Paul, AKA, "Dissertation Boy" 00:04:24 - More listener mail! 00:15:50 - Milk Wars 00:49:42 - Motor Girl Omnibus 01:08:52 - Strangers in Paradise XXV#1 & #2 01:24:13 - Wrap up 01:25:47 - Contact us Paul is back on the podcast, fresh from working on his dissertation. On this episode, he updates Derek on his dissertating progress, and then the Two Guys plunge into the show proper. They begin by looking at the five issues that make up the DC Universe/Young Animal crossover Milk Wars(DC Comics). Both Paul and Derek share their experiences reading JLA/Doom Patrol Special#1, Mother Panic/Batman Special#1, Shade, the Changing Girl/Wonder Woman Special#1, Cave Carson Has A Cybernetic Eye/Swamp Thing Special#1, and Doom Patrol/JLA Special#1. A significant difference between the guys' appreciation of the Milk Warcrossover is linked to each of their post reading history with both the Young Animal titles and DC's current superhero happenings. After that, they celebrate the recent work of Terry Moore. The Two Guys discus in detail Motor Girl Omnibus, released just last month from Moore's Abstract Studios. This is a limited series that originally came out in 2017, but both Derek and Paul wanted to revisit the title now that the entire run is available in one volume. From there, they jump into the first two issues of Moore's latest efforts, Strangers in Paradise XXV. Both are excited to be back in the world of Katchoo and Francine, and even more compelling is the fact that Moore is crossing over his narrative worlds. There are elements of both Rachel Risingand Echoin this new SiP. And while those familiar with Moore's previous comics will bring an enhanced appreciation to the latest series, first-time readers of Moore will nonetheless get a lot out of Strangers in Paradise XXVwithout feeling lost. Both Paul and Derek love the work of Terry Moore, and their discussion of these new releases demonstrate this fact. Wed, 11 Apr 2018 12:07:38 -0000 Reviews of Milk Wars, Motor Girl Omnibus, and Strangers in Paradise XXV #1 & #2 full 276 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Crossovers Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Catching up with Paul, AKA, "Dissertation Boy" 00:04:24 - More listener mail! 00:15:50 - Milk Wars 00:49:42 - Motor Girl Omnibus 01:08:52 - Strangers in Paradise XXV#1 & #2 01:24:13 - Wrap up 01:25:47 - Contact us Paul is back on the podcast, fresh from working on his dissertation. On this episode, he updates Derek on his dissertating progress, and then the Two Guys plunge into the show proper. They begin by looking at the five issues that make up the DC Universe/Young Animal crossover Milk Wars(DC Comics). Both Paul and Derek share their experiences reading JLA/Doom Patrol Special#1, Mother Panic/Batman Special#1, Shade, the Changing Girl/Wonder Woman Special#1, Cave Carson Has A Cybernetic Eye/Swamp Thing Special#1, and Doom Patrol/JLA Special#1. A significant difference between the guys' appreciation of the Milk Warcrossover is linked to each of their post reading history with both the Young Animal titles and DC's current superhero happenings. After that, they celebrate the recent work of Terry Moore. The Two Guys discus in detail Motor Girl Omnibus, released just last month from Moore's Abstract Studios. This is a limited series that originally came out in 2017, but both Derek and Paul wanted to revisit the title now that the entire run is available in one volume. From there, they jump into the first two issues of Moore's latest efforts, Strangers in Paradise XXV. Both are excited to be back in the world of Katchoo and Francine, and even more compelling is the fact that Moore is crossing over his narrative worlds. There are elements of both Rachel Risingand Echoin this new SiP. And while those familiar with Moore's previous comics will bring an enhanced appreciation to the latest series, first-time readers of Moore will nonetheless get a lot out of Strangers in Paradise XXVwithout feeling lost. Both Paul and Derek love the work of Terry Moore, and their discussion of these new releases demonstrate this fact. Time Codes:

Paul is back on the podcast, fresh from working on his dissertation. On this episode, he updates Derek on his dissertating progress, and then the Two Guys plunge into the show proper. They begin by looking at the five issues that make up the DC Universe/Young Animal crossover Milk Wars(DC Comics). Both Paul and Derek share their experiences reading JLA/Doom Patrol Special#1, Mother Panic/Batman Special#1, Shade, the Changing Girl/Wonder Woman Special#1, Cave Carson Has A Cybernetic Eye/Swamp Thing Special#1, and Doom Patrol/JLA Special#1. A significant difference between the guys' appreciation of the Milk Warcrossover is linked to each of their post reading history with both the Young Animal titles and DC's current superhero happenings.

After that, they celebrate the recent work of Terry Moore. The Two Guys discus in detail Motor Girl Omnibus, released just last month from Moore's Abstract Studios. This is a limited series that originally came out in 2017, but both Derek and Paul wanted to revisit the title now that the entire run is available in one volume. From there, they jump into the first two issues of Moore's latest efforts, Strangers in Paradise XXV. Both are excited to be back in the world of Katchoo and Francine, and even more compelling is the fact that Moore is crossing over his narrative worlds. There are elements of both Rachel Risingand Echoin this new SiP. And while those familiar with Moore's previous comics will bring an enhanced appreciation to the latest series, first-time readers of Moore will nonetheless get a lot out of Strangers in Paradise XXVwithout feeling lost. Both Paul and Derek love the work of Terry Moore, and their discussion of these new releases demonstrate this fact.

]]> 5374 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Grace Ellis and Shae Beagle http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-grace-ellis-and-shae-beagle Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:22 - Setup of interview 03:46 - Interview with Grace Ellisand Shae Beagle 43:14 - Wrap up 43:49 - Contact us Mythical figures, anthropomorphic characters, and heavy dose of magic, all set in a contemporary urban landscape complete with coffeehouses, mobile devices, and garage bands. This is the world of Moonstruck, a series that began last year and coming out from Image Comics. The writer and artist of this series, Grace Ellis and Shae Beagle, were kind enough to come on The Comics Alternativeto talk about the completion of the first narrative arc and what we might expect with the second. These two creators have known each other for a long time, and, along with their editor and designer, Laurenn McCubbin, have experienced a curious incubation period for their project. Derek talks with Grace and Shae about the origins of Moonstruck, their unique mix of fantasy and contemporary cultural concerns, the process of collaboration, and their attempts to build a reading community, not only with their storytelling, but also through social media and a keen understanding of their target audience. Tue, 10 Apr 2018 17:02:16 -0000 An Interview with Grace Ellis and Shae Beagle full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Magical Baristas Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:22 - Setup of interview 03:46 - Interview with Grace Ellisand Shae Beagle 43:14 - Wrap up 43:49 - Contact us Mythical figures, anthropomorphic characters, and heavy dose of magic, all set in a contemporary urban landscape complete with coffeehouses, mobile devices, and garage bands. This is the world of Moonstruck, a series that began last year and coming out from Image Comics. The writer and artist of this series, Grace Ellis and Shae Beagle, were kind enough to come on The Comics Alternativeto talk about the completion of the first narrative arc and what we might expect with the second. These two creators have known each other for a long time, and, along with their editor and designer, Laurenn McCubbin, have experienced a curious incubation period for their project. Derek talks with Grace and Shae about the origins of Moonstruck, their unique mix of fantasy and contemporary cultural concerns, the process of collaboration, and their attempts to build a reading community, not only with their storytelling, but also through social media and a keen understanding of their target audience. Time Codes:

  • 00:26 - Introduction
  • 02:22 - Setup of interview
  • 03:46 - Interview with Grace Ellisand Shae Beagle
  • 43:14 - Wrap up
  • 43:49 - Contact us

Mythical figures, anthropomorphic characters, and heavy dose of magic, all set in a contemporary urban landscape complete with coffeehouses, mobile devices, and garage bands. This is the world of Moonstruck, a series that began last year and coming out from Image Comics. The writer and artist of this series, Grace Ellis and Shae Beagle, were kind enough to come on The Comics Alternativeto talk about the completion of the first narrative arc and what we might expect with the second. These two creators have known each other for a long time, and, along with their editor and designer, Laurenn McCubbin, have experienced a curious incubation period for their project. Derek talks with Grace and Shae about the origins of Moonstruck, their unique mix of fantasy and contemporary cultural concerns, the process of collaboration, and their attempts to build a reading community, not only with their storytelling, but also through social media and a keen understanding of their target audience.

]]> 2806 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Brazen and Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-brazen-and-yellow-negroes-and-other-imaginary-creatures Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Pascal on the podcast, Round 2 00:04:19 - Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World  00:49:37 - Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures 01:31:45 - Wrap up 01:32:39 - Contact us This month Pascal and Derek look at two recent books that, while strikingly different in their storytelling approaches, are both insightful examinations of the socio-historical forces that shape individuals' lives. They begin with Pénélope Bagieu's Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World(First Second), a collection of 29 short biographies profiling women throughout history who have pushed back and defined themselves on their own terms. This book began as a series of webcomics that appeared on Le Monde's blog between January and October 2016. There was actually one original entry, a biographical look at Phulan Devi, that didn't make it into the American text, and the guys speculate as to why this might have been. After that they discuss Yvan Alagbé's Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures, just released from New York Review Comics. This is a much less conventional collection, at least in terms of its narrative and visual styles. The book includes seven short pieces that were originally created between 1995 and 2017. The title story is the longest, and most sophisticated, of the bunch, but Pascal and Derek also spend some time focusing on "The Suitcase" and "Postcard from Montreuil."  What almost all of the stories in this book focus on, in one way or another, is France's colonialist past and its ramifications to this day.   Mon, 09 Apr 2018 18:24:16 -0000 Reviews of Brazen and Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Pants On Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Pascal on the podcast, Round 2 00:04:19 - Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World  00:49:37 - Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures 01:31:45 - Wrap up 01:32:39 - Contact us This month Pascal and Derek look at two recent books that, while strikingly different in their storytelling approaches, are both insightful examinations of the socio-historical forces that shape individuals' lives. They begin with Pénélope Bagieu's Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World(First Second), a collection of 29 short biographies profiling women throughout history who have pushed back and defined themselves on their own terms. This book began as a series of webcomics that appeared on Le Monde's blog between January and October 2016. There was actually one original entry, a biographical look at Phulan Devi, that didn't make it into the American text, and the guys speculate as to why this might have been. After that they discuss Yvan Alagbé's Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures, just released from New York Review Comics. This is a much less conventional collection, at least in terms of its narrative and visual styles. The book includes seven short pieces that were originally created between 1995 and 2017. The title story is the longest, and most sophisticated, of the bunch, but Pascal and Derek also spend some time focusing on "The Suitcase" and "Postcard from Montreuil."  What almost all of the stories in this book focus on, in one way or another, is France's colonialist past and its ramifications to this day.   Time Codes:

This month Pascal and Derek look at two recent books that, while strikingly different in their storytelling approaches, are both insightful examinations of the socio-historical forces that shape individuals' lives. They begin with Pénélope Bagieu's Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World(First Second), a collection of 29 short biographies profiling women throughout history who have pushed back and defined themselves on their own terms. This book began as a series of webcomics that appeared on Le Monde's blog between January and October 2016. There was actually one original entry, a biographical look at Phulan Devi, that didn't make it into the American text, and the guys speculate as to why this might have been.

After that they discuss Yvan Alagbé's Yellow Negroes and Other Imaginary Creatures, just released from New York Review Comics. This is a much less conventional collection, at least in terms of its narrative and visual styles. The book includes seven short pieces that were originally created between 1995 and 2017. The title story is the longest, and most sophisticated, of the bunch, but Pascal and Derek also spend some time focusing on "The Suitcase" and "Postcard from Montreuil."  What almost all of the stories in this book focus on, in one way or another, is France's colonialist past and its ramifications to this day.

 

]]> 5741 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Retrofit Comics 2018 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-retrofit-comics-2018 Lately on The Comics Alternative's Kickstarter series, Derek has been focusing more on small presses that are currently crowdfunding their seasonal releases. (See previous shows devoted to Kilgore Booksand Nix Comics.) And this weekend's show is similar, highlighting the latest Kickstarter campaign from Retrofit Comics. On this episode, Derek talks with Jared Smith about efforts for funding their diverse array of 2018 titles. This current Kickstarter campaign revolves around the 12 books they plan on releasing this year. Backers of this project can look forward to: All the Sad Songs- Summer Pierre Fashion Forecasts- Yumi Sakugawa I Love You- Sara Lautman John, Dear- Laura Lannes Our Wretched Town Hall- Eric Kostiuk Williams The Prince- Liam Cobb Survive 300 Million 1- Pat Aulisio Survive 300 Million 2: Serpentine Captives- Pat Aulisio The Troublemakers- Baron Yoshimoto TRUMPTRUMP vol. 2: Modern Day Presidential- Warren Craghead III Understanding- Becca Tobin The Winner- Karl Stevens In their conversation, Derek talks with Jared about some of the history of Retrofit Comics and its relationship with Big Planet Comics -- in both its publishing and brick-and-mortar manifestations --  their more recent efforts in manga, and, of course, the impressive roster of this year's creators. As listeners of The Comics Alternativeknow, Retrofit/Big Planet is one of the Two Guys' absolute favorite publishers...small press or otherwise. If you don't already know about this publisher, then shame on you! All the more reason to back this campaignand get the 2018 releases from Retrofit Comics! Sample Covers Sat, 07 Apr 2018 12:56:57 -0000 Kickstarting Retrofit Comics 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal One of Our Favorites Lately on The Comics Alternative's Kickstarter series, Derek has been focusing more on small presses that are currently crowdfunding their seasonal releases. (See previous shows devoted to Kilgore Booksand Nix Comics.) And this weekend's show is similar, highlighting the latest Kickstarter campaign from Retrofit Comics. On this episode, Derek talks with Jared Smith about efforts for funding their diverse array of 2018 titles. This current Kickstarter campaign revolves around the 12 books they plan on releasing this year. Backers of this project can look forward to: All the Sad Songs- Summer Pierre Fashion Forecasts- Yumi Sakugawa I Love You- Sara Lautman John, Dear- Laura Lannes Our Wretched Town Hall- Eric Kostiuk Williams The Prince- Liam Cobb Survive 300 Million 1- Pat Aulisio Survive 300 Million 2: Serpentine Captives- Pat Aulisio The Troublemakers- Baron Yoshimoto TRUMPTRUMP vol. 2: Modern Day Presidential- Warren Craghead III Understanding- Becca Tobin The Winner- Karl Stevens In their conversation, Derek talks with Jared about some of the history of Retrofit Comics and its relationship with Big Planet Comics -- in both its publishing and brick-and-mortar manifestations --  their more recent efforts in manga, and, of course, the impressive roster of this year's creators. As listeners of The Comics Alternativeknow, Retrofit/Big Planet is one of the Two Guys' absolute favorite publishers...small press or otherwise. If you don't already know about this publisher, then shame on you! All the more reason to back this campaignand get the 2018 releases from Retrofit Comics! Sample Covers

Lately on The Comics Alternative's Kickstarter series, Derek has been focusing more on small presses that are currently crowdfunding their seasonal releases. (See previous shows devoted to Kilgore Booksand Nix Comics.) And this weekend's show is similar, highlighting the latest Kickstarter campaign from Retrofit Comics. On this episode, Derek talks with Jared Smith about efforts for funding their diverse array of 2018 titles.

This current Kickstarter campaign revolves around the 12 books they plan on releasing this year. Backers of this project can look forward to:

  • All the Sad Songs- Summer Pierre
  • Fashion Forecasts- Yumi Sakugawa
  • I Love You- Sara Lautman
  • John, Dear- Laura Lannes
  • Our Wretched Town Hall- Eric Kostiuk Williams
  • The Prince- Liam Cobb
  • Survive 300 Million 1- Pat Aulisio
  • Survive 300 Million 2: Serpentine Captives- Pat Aulisio
  • The Troublemakers- Baron Yoshimoto
  • TRUMPTRUMP vol. 2: Modern Day Presidential- Warren Craghead III
  • Understanding- Becca Tobin
  • The Winner- Karl Stevens

In their conversation, Derek talks with Jared about some of the history of Retrofit Comics and its relationship with Big Planet Comics -- in both its publishing and brick-and-mortar manifestations --  their more recent efforts in manga, and, of course, the impressive roster of this year's creators. As listeners of The Comics Alternativeknow, Retrofit/Big Planet is one of the Two Guys' absolute favorite publishers...small press or otherwise. If you don't already know about this publisher, then shame on you! All the more reason to back this campaignand get the 2018 releases from Retrofit Comics!

Sample Covers

]]> 1422 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-suzy-hopkins-and-hallie-bateman Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Welcoming Kristin LaLonde! 00:06:25 - Setup of interview 00:08:47 - Interview with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman 01:06:36 - Wrap up 01:09:18 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Derek welcomes Kristin LaLonde. She is one of the cohost of The Secret Stackspodcast, and she has a particular interest in graphic medicine and comics that deal with health and end-of-life issues. Together, the two of them talk with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman, the writer and illustrator of What to Do When I'm Gone: A Mother's Wisdom to Her Daughter(Bloomsbury Publishing). This is a book that the mother-daughter team worked on together, addressing the eventual death of Suzy and what advice she might want to give to Hallie before passing on. They talk with Kristin and Derek about the origins of this idea, the long incubation period, its evolution as a text from a personal project to something for a much broader audience, and how both mother and daughter collaborated on a subject matter that, while somber and ominous, was nonetheless was a necessary life-affirming exercise. Fri, 06 Apr 2018 16:20:36 -0000 An Interview with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Preparing Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Welcoming Kristin LaLonde! 00:06:25 - Setup of interview 00:08:47 - Interview with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman 01:06:36 - Wrap up 01:09:18 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Derek welcomes Kristin LaLonde. She is one of the cohost of The Secret Stackspodcast, and she has a particular interest in graphic medicine and comics that deal with health and end-of-life issues. Together, the two of them talk with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman, the writer and illustrator of What to Do When I'm Gone: A Mother's Wisdom to Her Daughter(Bloomsbury Publishing). This is a book that the mother-daughter team worked on together, addressing the eventual death of Suzy and what advice she might want to give to Hallie before passing on. They talk with Kristin and Derek about the origins of this idea, the long incubation period, its evolution as a text from a personal project to something for a much broader audience, and how both mother and daughter collaborated on a subject matter that, while somber and ominous, was nonetheless was a necessary life-affirming exercise. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:34 - Welcoming Kristin LaLonde!
  • 00:06:25 - Setup of interview
  • 00:08:47 - Interview with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman
  • 01:06:36 - Wrap up
  • 01:09:18 - Contact us

On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Derek welcomes Kristin LaLonde. She is one of the cohost of The Secret Stackspodcast, and she has a particular interest in graphic medicine and comics that deal with health and end-of-life issues. Together, the two of them talk with Suzy Hopkins and Hallie Bateman, the writer and illustrator of What to Do When I'm Gone: A Mother's Wisdom to Her Daughter(Bloomsbury Publishing). This is a book that the mother-daughter team worked on together, addressing the eventual death of Suzy and what advice she might want to give to Hallie before passing on. They talk with Kristin and Derek about the origins of this idea, the long incubation period, its evolution as a text from a personal project to something for a much broader audience, and how both mother and daughter collaborated on a subject matter that, while somber and ominous, was nonetheless was a necessary life-affirming exercise.

]]> 4362 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Gerry Duggan and David O'Sullivan http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-gerry-duggan-and-david-osullivan Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:12 - Interview with Gerry Duggan and David O'Sullivan 01:03:09 - Wrap up 01:03:37 - Contact us Set in the not-too-distant year of 2024, Analog (Image Comics) is a not-too-far-fetched look at what can come of information technology when it has fallen into the wrong hands. Its protagonist, Jack McGinnis, is a leger man, an armed courier working freelance for individuals and businesses who need to transfer information in the old-fashioned analog manner. This is a world where the cloud has come crashing down, and the "security" of the internet has been exposed as nothing more than fiction. Combining elements of sci-fi and noir narrative, Gerry Duggan and David O’Sullivan have created a world that, curiously enough, smacks of the many of the events we see unfolding on the nightly news. Although they may not have fully anticipated the inroads of Mueller’s Russian investigation, the ongoing revelations of Facebook and Cambridge Analytica, or the various security breaches we learn about on almost a daily basis, Gerry and David, along with the help of colorist Jordie Bellaire, have established a premise that just may be the logical conclusion to what we’re witnessing now. In this interview, Derek talks with his guests about the genesis of this new series, their process of collaboration, the injection of both noir and humor elements, and the various narrative questions established in this first issue. Thu, 05 Apr 2018 18:33:36 -0000 An Interview with Gerry Duggan and David O'Sullivan full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Technology and Timeliness Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:12 - Interview with Gerry Duggan and David O'Sullivan 01:03:09 - Wrap up 01:03:37 - Contact us Set in the not-too-distant year of 2024, Analog (Image Comics) is a not-too-far-fetched look at what can come of information technology when it has fallen into the wrong hands. Its protagonist, Jack McGinnis, is a leger man, an armed courier working freelance for individuals and businesses who need to transfer information in the old-fashioned analog manner. This is a world where the cloud has come crashing down, and the "security" of the internet has been exposed as nothing more than fiction. Combining elements of sci-fi and noir narrative, Gerry Duggan and David O’Sullivan have created a world that, curiously enough, smacks of the many of the events we see unfolding on the nightly news. Although they may not have fully anticipated the inroads of Mueller’s Russian investigation, the ongoing revelations of Facebook and Cambridge Analytica, or the various security breaches we learn about on almost a daily basis, Gerry and David, along with the help of colorist Jordie Bellaire, have established a premise that just may be the logical conclusion to what we’re witnessing now. In this interview, Derek talks with his guests about the genesis of this new series, their process of collaboration, the injection of both noir and humor elements, and the various narrative questions established in this first issue. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:26 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:12 - Interview with Gerry Duggan and David O'Sullivan
  • 01:03:09 - Wrap up
  • 01:03:37 - Contact us

Set in the not-too-distant year of 2024, Analog (Image Comics) is a not-too-far-fetched look at what can come of information technology when it has fallen into the wrong hands. Its protagonist, Jack McGinnis, is a leger man, an armed courier working freelance for individuals and businesses who need to transfer information in the old-fashioned analog manner. This is a world where the cloud has come crashing down, and the "security" of the internet has been exposed as nothing more than fiction. Combining elements of sci-fi and noir narrative, Gerry Duggan and David O’Sullivan have created a world that, curiously enough, smacks of the many of the events we see unfolding on the nightly news. Although they may not have fully anticipated the inroads of Mueller’s Russian investigation, the ongoing revelations of Facebook and Cambridge Analytica, or the various security breaches we learn about on almost a daily basis, Gerry and David, along with the help of colorist Jordie Bellaire, have established a premise that just may be the logical conclusion to what we’re witnessing now. In this interview, Derek talks with his guests about the genesis of this new series, their process of collaboration, the injection of both noir and humor elements, and the various narrative questions established in this first issue.

]]> 3995 no Episode 275: The April Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-275-the-april-previews-catalog Gene and Derek are back for another look at the current month's Previews catalog. This one may not be as long an episode as last month's Previewshow -- which clocked in at just under three hours -- but it's nonetheless hefty. (Well...actually, it is almost as long as the March show.) They begin this week by discussing the new changes appearing in Previewsbeginning in April. They point out the additions of BOOM! Studios and Dynamite Entertainment in the premiere publishers section, prominently displayed in the front of the catalog; the reorganizations of solicits in a new manga section; the shake-up of what had been the book section; the flip arrangement with the toy and merchandise sections; and next month's departure of DC Comics' solicitations into their own supplemental catalog. After that, and several cynical comments (primarily from Derek), they get into the nitty gritty of the April Previewscatalog, highlighting a variety of titles from such publishers as: Dark Horse Comics - Sword Daughter#1, Likely Stories, Gantz Omnibus Vol. 1, Hercules: Adventures of the Man-God, and EC Archives: War Against Crime Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - Plastic Man#1 and American Vampire Omnibus Vol. 1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Tempest#1, Look Back and Laugh, Comic Book History of Comics: Comics for All, The Unknown Anti-War Comics, and Burmese Moon Image Comics - The Magic Order #1, The Weatherman#1, Proxima Centuri#1, Shanghai Red#1, and The Red Hook Vol. 1 Dynamite Entertainment - Nancy Drew#1 BOOM! Studios - By Night#1, Planet of the Apes Visionaries: Rod Serling, and Sanpaku Arcade Publishing - Broken Glory: The Final Years of Robert F. Kennedy Archie Comics - Cosmo: The Complete Merry Martian Bongo Comics/United Plankton Pictures - Spongebob Comics Annual Giant Swimtacular#6 Conundrum Press - The Curse of Charley Buttersand Feast of Fields Drawn and Quarterly - A Bubble, Shit Is Real, and The Strange Fantagraphics Books - Poochytown, Dumb, Death Stand and Other Stories, Fab 4 Mania, and Dull Margaret First Second - Science Comics: Rockets Humanoids - Luisa: Now and Thenand Moon Face Deluxe Knopf Books for Young Readers - Rickety Stitch and Gelatinous Goo, Vol. 2: The Middle-Route Run Lion Forge - Mae Vol. 1, Mae Vol. 2#1, and Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine NBM - A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights: Hasib and the Queen of Serpents Nobrow - Nobrow Vol. 10: Studio Dreams Oni Press - Shadow Roads#1 Rebellion/2000Ad - Jinty Vol. 1: The Land of No Tears and The Future Zoo Secret Acres - Entropy SelfMadeHero - Apollo Silver Sprocket - Catboy Titan Comics - Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer #1 and Tyler Cross: Black Rock Twomorrows Publishing - Comic Book Implosion Z2 Comics - The Sweetness Kodansha Comics - Tokyo Tarareba Girls Vol. 1and Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku Seven Seas Entertainment - Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection Wed, 04 Apr 2018 12:12:21 -0000 A Discussion of the April Previews Catalog full 275 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It's all about the dollars" Gene and Derek are back for another look at the current month's Previews catalog. This one may not be as long an episode as last month's Previewshow -- which clocked in at just under three hours -- but it's nonetheless hefty. (Well...actually, it is almost as long as the March show.) They begin this week by discussing the new changes appearing in Previewsbeginning in April. They point out the additions of BOOM! Studios and Dynamite Entertainment in the premiere publishers section, prominently displayed in the front of the catalog; the reorganizations of solicits in a new manga section; the shake-up of what had been the book section; the flip arrangement with the toy and merchandise sections; and next month's departure of DC Comics' solicitations into their own supplemental catalog. After that, and several cynical comments (primarily from Derek), they get into the nitty gritty of the April Previewscatalog, highlighting a variety of titles from such publishers as: Dark Horse Comics - Sword Daughter#1, Likely Stories, Gantz Omnibus Vol. 1, Hercules: Adventures of the Man-God, and EC Archives: War Against Crime Vol. 1 DC Comics/Vertigo - Plastic Man#1 and American Vampire Omnibus Vol. 1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Tempest#1, Look Back and Laugh, Comic Book History of Comics: Comics for All, The Unknown Anti-War Comics, and Burmese Moon Image Comics - The Magic Order #1, The Weatherman#1, Proxima Centuri#1, Shanghai Red#1, and The Red Hook Vol. 1 Dynamite Entertainment - Nancy Drew#1 BOOM! Studios - By Night#1, Planet of the Apes Visionaries: Rod Serling, and Sanpaku Arcade Publishing - Broken Glory: The Final Years of Robert F. Kennedy Archie Comics - Cosmo: The Complete Merry Martian Bongo Comics/United Plankton Pictures - Spongebob Comics Annual Giant Swimtacular#6 Conundrum Press - The Curse of Charley Buttersand Feast of Fields Drawn and Quarterly - A Bubble, Shit Is Real, and The Strange Fantagraphics Books - Poochytown, Dumb, Death Stand and Other Stories, Fab 4 Mania, and Dull Margaret First Second - Science Comics: Rockets Humanoids - Luisa: Now and Thenand Moon Face Deluxe Knopf Books for Young Readers - Rickety Stitch and Gelatinous Goo, Vol. 2: The Middle-Route Run Lion Forge - Mae Vol. 1, Mae Vol. 2#1, and Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine NBM - A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights: Hasib and the Queen of Serpents Nobrow - Nobrow Vol. 10: Studio Dreams Oni Press - Shadow Roads#1 Rebellion/2000Ad - Jinty Vol. 1: The Land of No Tears and The Future Zoo Secret Acres - Entropy SelfMadeHero - Apollo Silver Sprocket - Catboy Titan Comics - Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer #1 and Tyler Cross: Black Rock Twomorrows Publishing - Comic Book Implosion Z2 Comics - The Sweetness Kodansha Comics - Tokyo Tarareba Girls Vol. 1and Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku Seven Seas Entertainment - Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection

Gene and Derek are back for another look at the current month's Previews catalog. This one may not be as long an episode as last month's Previewshow -- which clocked in at just under three hours -- but it's nonetheless hefty. (Well...actually, it is almost as long as the March show.) They begin this week by discussing the new changes appearing in Previewsbeginning in April. They point out the additions of BOOM! Studios and Dynamite Entertainment in the premiere publishers section, prominently displayed in the front of the catalog; the reorganizations of solicits in a new manga section; the shake-up of what had been the book section; the flip arrangement with the toy and merchandise sections; and next month's departure of DC Comics' solicitations into their own supplemental catalog. After that, and several cynical comments (primarily from Derek), they get into the nitty gritty of the April Previewscatalog, highlighting a variety of titles from such publishers as:

  • Dark Horse Comics - Sword Daughter#1, Likely Stories, Gantz Omnibus Vol. 1, Hercules: Adventures of the Man-God, and EC Archives: War Against Crime Vol. 1
  • DC Comics/Vertigo - Plastic Man#1 and American Vampire Omnibus Vol. 1
  • IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Tempest#1, Look Back and Laugh, Comic Book History of Comics: Comics for All, The Unknown Anti-War Comics, and Burmese Moon
  • Image Comics - The Magic Order #1, The Weatherman#1, Proxima Centuri#1, Shanghai Red#1, and The Red Hook Vol. 1
  • Dynamite Entertainment - Nancy Drew#1
  • BOOM! Studios - By Night#1, Planet of the Apes Visionaries: Rod Serling, and Sanpaku
  • Arcade Publishing - Broken Glory: The Final Years of Robert F. Kennedy
  • Archie Comics - Cosmo: The Complete Merry Martian
  • Bongo Comics/United Plankton Pictures - Spongebob Comics Annual Giant Swimtacular#6
  • Conundrum Press - The Curse of Charley Buttersand Feast of Fields
  • Drawn and Quarterly - A Bubble, Shit Is Real, and The Strange
  • Fantagraphics Books - Poochytown, Dumb, Death Stand and Other Stories, Fab 4 Mania, and Dull Margaret
  • First Second - Science Comics: Rockets
  • Humanoids - Luisa: Now and Thenand Moon Face Deluxe
  • Knopf Books for Young Readers - Rickety Stitch and Gelatinous Goo, Vol. 2: The Middle-Route Run
  • Lion Forge - Mae Vol. 1, Mae Vol. 2#1, and Green Almonds: Letters from Palestine
  • NBM - A Tale of a Thousand and One Nights: Hasib and the Queen of Serpents
  • Nobrow - Nobrow Vol. 10: Studio Dreams
  • Oni Press - Shadow Roads#1
  • Rebellion/2000Ad - Jinty Vol. 1: The Land of No Tears and The Future Zoo
  • Secret Acres - Entropy
  • SelfMadeHero - Apollo
  • Silver Sprocket - Catboy
  • Titan Comics - Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer #1 and Tyler Cross: Black Rock
  • Twomorrows Publishing - Comic Book Implosion
  • Z2 Comics - The Sweetness
  • Kodansha Comics - Tokyo Tarareba Girls Vol. 1and Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku
  • Seven Seas Entertainment - Cutie Honey: The Classic Collection
]]> 10432 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-brenden-fletcher-and-karl-kerschl Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:21 - Setup of interview 00:03:28 - Interview with Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl 01:11:31 - Wrap up 01:12:00 - Contact us On April 4 you’ll find in your comic shops the first issue of Isola, Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl’s brand new series from Image Comics that combines nuanced storytelling with Kerschl’s magnificent artwork. In this inaugural issue, we find a captain of the Royal Guard fleeing her capital city with the realm’s queen, on their way to a mythical land called Isola. But appearances can be deceiving, and the initial journey unfolds under the cloud of an evil spell that leaves us with more questions than answers. On this episode, Derek talks with Karl and Brenden about what transpires in this first issue, how long they’ve been nurturing this concept, their process of collaboration, and what we might expect in future issues…at least, as much as they could tell without spoiling anything. The two also share some of their experiences working on their other series, such as Motor Crush, Gotham Academy, Batgirl, and The Abominable Charles Christopher. Tue, 03 Apr 2018 13:50:12 -0000 An interview with Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fantastic(al) Questions Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:21 - Setup of interview 00:03:28 - Interview with Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl 01:11:31 - Wrap up 01:12:00 - Contact us On April 4 you’ll find in your comic shops the first issue of Isola, Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl’s brand new series from Image Comics that combines nuanced storytelling with Kerschl’s magnificent artwork. In this inaugural issue, we find a captain of the Royal Guard fleeing her capital city with the realm’s queen, on their way to a mythical land called Isola. But appearances can be deceiving, and the initial journey unfolds under the cloud of an evil spell that leaves us with more questions than answers. On this episode, Derek talks with Karl and Brenden about what transpires in this first issue, how long they’ve been nurturing this concept, their process of collaboration, and what we might expect in future issues…at least, as much as they could tell without spoiling anything. The two also share some of their experiences working on their other series, such as Motor Crush, Gotham Academy, Batgirl, and The Abominable Charles Christopher. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:21 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:28 - Interview with Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl
  • 01:11:31 - Wrap up
  • 01:12:00 - Contact us

On April 4 you’ll find in your comic shops the first issue of Isola, Brenden Fletcher and Karl Kerschl’s brand new series from Image Comics that combines nuanced storytelling with Kerschl’s magnificent artwork. In this inaugural issue, we find a captain of the Royal Guard fleeing her capital city with the realm’s queen, on their way to a mythical land called Isola. But appearances can be deceiving, and the initial journey unfolds under the cloud of an evil spell that leaves us with more questions than answers. On this episode, Derek talks with Karl and Brenden about what transpires in this first issue, how long they’ve been nurturing this concept, their process of collaboration, and what we might expect in future issues…at least, as much as they could tell without spoiling anything. The two also share some of their experiences working on their other series, such as Motor Crush, Gotham Academy, Batgirl, and The Abominable Charles Christopher.

]]> 4495 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-marcus-sedgwick-and-thomas-taylor Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 03:15 - Setup of interview 04:11 - Interview with Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor 51:00 - Wrap up 52:16 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek talk with the creative team behind Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter, a new book out from First Second. Both Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor share their experiences conceiving the premise, their process of collaboration, and their hopes to further explore this fantastical world. Scarlett Hartis the story of the titular protagonist who carries on in her deceased parents' footsteps, keeping her city free of monsters. With the help of her steadfast assistant Napoleon, she hunts down big nasties while trying to stay one step ahead of her nemesis, fellow monster hunter Count Stankovic. Over the course of their conversation, Marcus and Thomas discuss their love of weird monsters and young adventure narratives, combining these passions to create what they refer to as a "gothic Tintin." Mon, 02 Apr 2018 14:41:03 -0000 An interview with Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Gothic Tintin Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 03:15 - Setup of interview 04:11 - Interview with Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor 51:00 - Wrap up 52:16 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek talk with the creative team behind Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter, a new book out from First Second. Both Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor share their experiences conceiving the premise, their process of collaboration, and their hopes to further explore this fantastical world. Scarlett Hartis the story of the titular protagonist who carries on in her deceased parents' footsteps, keeping her city free of monsters. With the help of her steadfast assistant Napoleon, she hunts down big nasties while trying to stay one step ahead of her nemesis, fellow monster hunter Count Stankovic. Over the course of their conversation, Marcus and Thomas discuss their love of weird monsters and young adventure narratives, combining these passions to create what they refer to as a "gothic Tintin." Time Codes:

  • 00:26 - Introduction
  • 03:15 - Setup of interview
  • 04:11 - Interview with Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor
  • 51:00 - Wrap up
  • 52:16 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek talk with the creative team behind Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter, a new book out from First Second. Both Marcus Sedgwick and Thomas Taylor share their experiences conceiving the premise, their process of collaboration, and their hopes to further explore this fantastical world. Scarlett Hartis the story of the titular protagonist who carries on in her deceased parents' footsteps, keeping her city free of monsters. With the help of her steadfast assistant Napoleon, she hunts down big nasties while trying to stay one step ahead of her nemesis, fellow monster hunter Count Stankovic. Over the course of their conversation, Marcus and Thomas discuss their love of weird monsters and young adventure narratives, combining these passions to create what they refer to as a "gothic Tintin."

]]> 3320 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Nix Comics' 2018 Comic Book and Record Releases http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-nix-comics-2018-comic-book-and-record-releases This weekend Derek talks with Ken Eppsteinabout his latest Kickstarter campaign, backing for Nix Comics' 2018 comic book and record releases. Listeners of the podcast might recognize this publisher, as they've discussed Nix releases in the past. Nix Comics' productions are inspired by the kind of mythos surrounding pre-MTV garage rock. The comics are informed by Ken's years of love for punk rock bands, record stores, and b-movies. For this kickstarter he is offering two subscription levels: Basicand De-Luxe. Basic subscribers will receive 7 printed comic books and zines: Nix Comics Quarterly Nix Western Comics Jenny Mae & Jerry Wick Buck  Slaughter's Book of Rock n Roll Facts The Collected Pander Bear Tales from the Crate Return of Belligerent Kitties De-Luxe subscribers will receive 7 printed comic books and zines, the accompanying records, and a 120-page art and poetry collection: Nix Comics Quarterly Nix Western Comics Jenny Mae & Jerry Wick (comic and record set) Buck  Slaughter's Book of Rock n Roll Facts The Collected Pander Bear (comic and record set) Tales from the Crate Return of Belligerent Kitties Beauty Found in Darkness US Subscribers will receive their books/records in May, July, and September.  International subscribers will receive their complete subscription in September. But if you're not into the subscription thing, then you take advantage of the various reward levels where you can get individual issues. So be sure to check out Ken's 2018 Kickstarter campaignand indulge in the rockin' goodness of Nix Comics! Sample Covers   Sat, 31 Mar 2018 11:47:45 -0000 Kickstarting Nix Comics' 2018 Comic Book and Record Releases full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Rock On! This weekend Derek talks with Ken Eppsteinabout his latest Kickstarter campaign, backing for Nix Comics' 2018 comic book and record releases. Listeners of the podcast might recognize this publisher, as they've discussed Nix releases in the past. Nix Comics' productions are inspired by the kind of mythos surrounding pre-MTV garage rock. The comics are informed by Ken's years of love for punk rock bands, record stores, and b-movies. For this kickstarter he is offering two subscription levels: Basicand De-Luxe. Basic subscribers will receive 7 printed comic books and zines: Nix Comics Quarterly Nix Western Comics Jenny Mae & Jerry Wick Buck  Slaughter's Book of Rock n Roll Facts The Collected Pander Bear Tales from the Crate Return of Belligerent Kitties De-Luxe subscribers will receive 7 printed comic books and zines, the accompanying records, and a 120-page art and poetry collection: Nix Comics Quarterly Nix Western Comics Jenny Mae & Jerry Wick (comic and record set) Buck  Slaughter's Book of Rock n Roll Facts The Collected Pander Bear (comic and record set) Tales from the Crate Return of Belligerent Kitties Beauty Found in Darkness US Subscribers will receive their books/records in May, July, and September.  International subscribers will receive their complete subscription in September. But if you're not into the subscription thing, then you take advantage of the various reward levels where you can get individual issues. So be sure to check out Ken's 2018 Kickstarter campaignand indulge in the rockin' goodness of Nix Comics! Sample Covers  

This weekend Derek talks with Ken Eppsteinabout his latest Kickstarter campaign, backing for Nix Comics' 2018 comic book and record releases. Listeners of the podcast might recognize this publisher, as they've discussed Nix releases in the past.

Nix Comics' productions are inspired by the kind of mythos surrounding pre-MTV garage rock. The comics are informed by Ken's years of love for punk rock bands, record stores, and b-movies. For this kickstarter he is offering two subscription levels: Basicand De-Luxe.

Basic subscribers will receive 7 printed comic books and zines:

  • Nix Comics Quarterly
  • Nix Western Comics
  • Jenny Mae & Jerry Wick
  • Buck  Slaughter's Book of Rock n Roll Facts
  • The Collected Pander Bear
  • Tales from the Crate
  • Return of Belligerent Kitties

De-Luxe subscribers will receive 7 printed comic books and zines, the accompanying records, and a 120-page art and poetry collection:

  • Nix Comics Quarterly
  • Nix Western Comics
  • Jenny Mae & Jerry Wick (comic and record set)
  • Buck  Slaughter's Book of Rock n Roll Facts
  • The Collected Pander Bear (comic and record set)
  • Tales from the Crate
  • Return of Belligerent Kitties
  • Beauty Found in Darkness

US Subscribers will receive their books/records in May, July, and September.  International subscribers will receive their complete subscription in September.

But if you're not into the subscription thing, then you take advantage of the various reward levels where you can get individual issues. So be sure to check out Ken's 2018 Kickstarter campaignand indulge in the rockin' goodness of Nix Comics!

Sample Covers

 

]]> 1216 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Magdalene Visaggio and Sonny Liew http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-magdalene-visaggio-and-sonny-liew Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:57 - Setup of interview 05:11 - Interview with Magdalene Visaggio 29:37 - Interview with Sonny Liew 58:43 - Wrap up 59:20 - Contact us A couple of weeks ago the first issue of Eternity Girl, the latest title in DC’s Young Animal line, was released. Written by Magdalene Visaggio and with art by Sonny Liew, this is a title that combines parts of Element Girl with a dash of Kid Eternity, and mixes things up in an offbeat way that fits perfectly in the Young Animal world. On this interview episode, Derek talks with both Mags and Sonny about this new series, and both kindly agreed to be on the podcast. Listeners of The Comics Alternative will know that both creators have been on the show before. Derek spoke with Mags briefly at HeroesCon a couple of years ago, and then he along with Gwen interviewed Sonny around the publication of his landmark book, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, a work that went on to win three Eisner Awards last year: Best Writer/Artist, Best U.S. Edition of International Material - Asia, and Best Publication Design. Since Sonny lives halfway around the world, in Singapore, there was a challenge in trying to find a common occasion when everyone could be online and all talk together. So they decided to break up the interview where Derek would talk with both creators separately, asking both similar questions, while at the same time focusing on each one’s unique contribution to the series. This show begins with Mags Visaggio, with Derek asking her about the genesis of Eternity Girl as well as the differences between creating for Black Mask Comics and now working at DC. After that, you’ll hear a conversation with Sonny Liew. He talks about his visual approach to this unstable, composite character and how his art style is particularly suited to the title. Derek also asks Sonny what it’s like to be a multiple Eisner Award-winning artist and how his professional life has changed since last year’s accolades.   Fri, 30 Mar 2018 13:17:43 -0000 Interviews with Magdalene Visaggio and Sonny Liew full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Elemental Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:57 - Setup of interview 05:11 - Interview with Magdalene Visaggio 29:37 - Interview with Sonny Liew 58:43 - Wrap up 59:20 - Contact us A couple of weeks ago the first issue of Eternity Girl, the latest title in DC’s Young Animal line, was released. Written by Magdalene Visaggio and with art by Sonny Liew, this is a title that combines parts of Element Girl with a dash of Kid Eternity, and mixes things up in an offbeat way that fits perfectly in the Young Animal world. On this interview episode, Derek talks with both Mags and Sonny about this new series, and both kindly agreed to be on the podcast. Listeners of The Comics Alternative will know that both creators have been on the show before. Derek spoke with Mags briefly at HeroesCon a couple of years ago, and then he along with Gwen interviewed Sonny around the publication of his landmark book, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, a work that went on to win three Eisner Awards last year: Best Writer/Artist, Best U.S. Edition of International Material - Asia, and Best Publication Design. Since Sonny lives halfway around the world, in Singapore, there was a challenge in trying to find a common occasion when everyone could be online and all talk together. So they decided to break up the interview where Derek would talk with both creators separately, asking both similar questions, while at the same time focusing on each one’s unique contribution to the series. This show begins with Mags Visaggio, with Derek asking her about the genesis of Eternity Girl as well as the differences between creating for Black Mask Comics and now working at DC. After that, you’ll hear a conversation with Sonny Liew. He talks about his visual approach to this unstable, composite character and how his art style is particularly suited to the title. Derek also asks Sonny what it’s like to be a multiple Eisner Award-winning artist and how his professional life has changed since last year’s accolades.   Time Codes:

  • 00:26 - Introduction
  • 02:57 - Setup of interview
  • 05:11 - Interview with Magdalene Visaggio
  • 29:37 - Interview with Sonny Liew
  • 58:43 - Wrap up
  • 59:20 - Contact us

A couple of weeks ago the first issue of Eternity Girl, the latest title in DC’s Young Animal line, was released. Written by Magdalene Visaggio and with art by Sonny Liew, this is a title that combines parts of Element Girl with a dash of Kid Eternity, and mixes things up in an offbeat way that fits perfectly in the Young Animal world. On this interview episode, Derek talks with both Mags and Sonny about this new series, and both kindly agreed to be on the podcast.

Listeners of The Comics Alternative will know that both creators have been on the show before. Derek spoke with Mags briefly at HeroesCon a couple of years ago, and then he along with Gwen interviewed Sonny around the publication of his landmark book, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, a work that went on to win three Eisner Awards last year: Best Writer/Artist, Best U.S. Edition of International Material - Asia, and Best Publication Design.

Since Sonny lives halfway around the world, in Singapore, there was a challenge in trying to find a common occasion when everyone could be online and all talk together. So they decided to break up the interview where Derek would talk with both creators separately, asking both similar questions, while at the same time focusing on each one’s unique contribution to the series. This show begins with Mags Visaggio, with Derek asking her about the genesis of Eternity Girl as well as the differences between creating for Black Mask Comics and now working at DC. After that, you’ll hear a conversation with Sonny Liew. He talks about his visual approach to this unstable, composite character and how his art style is particularly suited to the title. Derek also asks Sonny what it’s like to be a multiple Eisner Award-winning artist and how his professional life has changed since last year’s accolades.

 

]]> 3736 yes Manga: Reviews of Iceland and Fukushima Devil Fish http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-red-colored-elegy-and-the-promised-neverland-vol-1-0 Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:29 - More listener mail! 00:06:57 - Iceland 00:30:51 - Fukushima Devil Fish 01:04:49 - Wrap up 01:06:13 - Contact us On the March manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss a couple of experimental works. They begin with Yuichi Yokoyama's Iceland, released last fall from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics. The plot of this book is minimal -- two characters are searching for a third, they find him, and then they drive off in a taxi -- and it's something like you might find in Samuel Beckett narrative. But it's Yokoyama's art that propels the text. As the guys discuss, there is something kinetic, claustrophobic, and even frantic about the visuals. For Derek, futurism comes to mind. After that they look at a book that both Shea and Derek have been eagerly anticipating, Susumu Katsumata's Fukushima Devil Fish(Breakdown Press). The core text comprises nine short stories that provide a diversity of tone. The first two are the most contemporary, originally published during the 1980s and focusing on the dangers of nuclear power. The remaining pieces reflect Katsumata's style from the late 1960s into the early 1970s, stories originally appearing in the legendary Garo andCOM. Some of these are folklore-inspired narratives, presenting a pre-modern Japan inhabited by kappa and tanuki and reminiscent of the stories found in Red Snow. Others are instances of "I-manga," introspective and highly personal pieces driven more by tone than cohesive storyline. Four critical and biographical essays, two written by Katsumata himself, round out the collection. Thu, 29 Mar 2018 12:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Iceland and Fukushima Devil Fish full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Difference Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:29 - More listener mail! 00:06:57 - Iceland 00:30:51 - Fukushima Devil Fish 01:04:49 - Wrap up 01:06:13 - Contact us On the March manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss a couple of experimental works. They begin with Yuichi Yokoyama's Iceland, released last fall from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics. The plot of this book is minimal -- two characters are searching for a third, they find him, and then they drive off in a taxi -- and it's something like you might find in Samuel Beckett narrative. But it's Yokoyama's art that propels the text. As the guys discuss, there is something kinetic, claustrophobic, and even frantic about the visuals. For Derek, futurism comes to mind. After that they look at a book that both Shea and Derek have been eagerly anticipating, Susumu Katsumata's Fukushima Devil Fish(Breakdown Press). The core text comprises nine short stories that provide a diversity of tone. The first two are the most contemporary, originally published during the 1980s and focusing on the dangers of nuclear power. The remaining pieces reflect Katsumata's style from the late 1960s into the early 1970s, stories originally appearing in the legendary Garo andCOM. Some of these are folklore-inspired narratives, presenting a pre-modern Japan inhabited by kappa and tanuki and reminiscent of the stories found in Red Snow. Others are instances of "I-manga," introspective and highly personal pieces driven more by tone than cohesive storyline. Four critical and biographical essays, two written by Katsumata himself, round out the collection. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:29 - More listener mail!
  • 00:06:57 - Iceland
  • 00:30:51 - Fukushima Devil Fish
  • 01:04:49 - Wrap up
  • 01:06:13 - Contact us

On the March manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss a couple of experimental works. They begin with Yuichi Yokoyama's Iceland, released last fall from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics. The plot of this book is minimal -- two characters are searching for a third, they find him, and then they drive off in a taxi -- and it's something like you might find in Samuel Beckett narrative. But it's Yokoyama's art that propels the text. As the guys discuss, there is something kinetic, claustrophobic, and even frantic about the visuals. For Derek, futurism comes to mind.

After that they look at a book that both Shea and Derek have been eagerly anticipating, Susumu Katsumata's Fukushima Devil Fish(Breakdown Press). The core text comprises nine short stories that provide a diversity of tone. The first two are the most contemporary, originally published during the 1980s and focusing on the dangers of nuclear power. The remaining pieces reflect Katsumata's style from the late 1960s into the early 1970s, stories originally appearing in the legendary Garo andCOM. Some of these are folklore-inspired narratives, presenting a pre-modern Japan inhabited by kappa and tanuki and reminiscent of the stories found in Red Snow. Others are instances of "I-manga," introspective and highly personal pieces driven more by tone than cohesive storyline. Four critical and biographical essays, two written by Katsumata himself, round out the collection.

]]> 4208 no Episode 274: Reviews of Why Art?, Infidel #1, and Vampironica #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-274-reviews-of-why-art-infidel-1-and-vampironica-1 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:12 - Welcoming new Patreon supporters, and more listener mail! 00:14:29 - Why Art? 00:42:19 - Infidel #1 00:58:55 - Vampironica #1 01:13:58 - Wrap up 01:15:53 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three different titles that may or may not be connected (you'll have to ask Gene). They begin with Eleanor Davis's Why Art? (Fantagraphics Books). Going into this reading, the guys thought that the book might be more on the expository or critical side. However, they quickly discovered Davis's unique approach in combining humor, storytelling, and aesthetic analysis. After that they check out the first issue of Infidel (Image Comics), written by Pornsak Pichetshote and with art by Aaron Campbell. This is a curious combination of horror and the dynamics of intolerance, and the first issue raises a variety of questions that start off the series with good story momentum. The Two Guys with PhDs conclude with another horror title, Greg and Megan Smallwood's Vampironica #1. Although in the tradition of Archie Comics' other recent horror titles, this first issue doesn't have the same impact on the guys as did Afterlife with Archie or The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Still, the art and premise are an attention-grabbing setup.   Wed, 28 Mar 2018 14:37:08 -0000 Reviews of Why Art?, Infidel #1, and Vampironica #1 full 274 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Another episode of Gene's forced connections" Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:12 - Welcoming new Patreon supporters, and more listener mail! 00:14:29 - Why Art? 00:42:19 - Infidel #1 00:58:55 - Vampironica #1 01:13:58 - Wrap up 01:15:53 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three different titles that may or may not be connected (you'll have to ask Gene). They begin with Eleanor Davis's Why Art? (Fantagraphics Books). Going into this reading, the guys thought that the book might be more on the expository or critical side. However, they quickly discovered Davis's unique approach in combining humor, storytelling, and aesthetic analysis. After that they check out the first issue of Infidel (Image Comics), written by Pornsak Pichetshote and with art by Aaron Campbell. This is a curious combination of horror and the dynamics of intolerance, and the first issue raises a variety of questions that start off the series with good story momentum. The Two Guys with PhDs conclude with another horror title, Greg and Megan Smallwood's Vampironica #1. Although in the tradition of Archie Comics' other recent horror titles, this first issue doesn't have the same impact on the guys as did Afterlife with Archie or The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Still, the art and premise are an attention-grabbing setup.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:30 - Introduction
  • 00:03:12 - Welcoming new Patreon supporters, and more listener mail!
  • 00:14:29 - Why Art?
  • 00:42:19 - Infidel #1
  • 00:58:55 - Vampironica #1
  • 01:13:58 - Wrap up
  • 01:15:53 - Contact us

This week Gene and Derek discuss three different titles that may or may not be connected (you'll have to ask Gene). They begin with Eleanor Davis's Why Art? (Fantagraphics Books). Going into this reading, the guys thought that the book might be more on the expository or critical side. However, they quickly discovered Davis's unique approach in combining humor, storytelling, and aesthetic analysis. After that they check out the first issue of Infidel (Image Comics), written by Pornsak Pichetshote and with art by Aaron Campbell. This is a curious combination of horror and the dynamics of intolerance, and the first issue raises a variety of questions that start off the series with good story momentum. The Two Guys with PhDs conclude with another horror title, Greg and Megan Smallwood's Vampironica #1. Although in the tradition of Archie Comics' other recent horror titles, this first issue doesn't have the same impact on the guys as did Afterlife with Archie or The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Still, the art and premise are an attention-grabbing setup.

 

]]> 4751 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with John Porcellino http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-john-porcellino Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:50 - Setup of interview 00:04:21 - Interview with John Porcellino 01:21:07 - Wrap up 01:23:19 - Contact us Gene and Derek are excited to have John Porcellino back on the podcast. His new book From Lone Mountain has just been released by Drawn and Quarterly, and John talks in depth about the time in his life covered in this collection, as well as the process of pulling all of these experiences together. The book collects King-Cat Comics & Stories #62-#68, released between 2003-2007. The Two Guys ask John about the evolution of his compositional strategies, the role that place and landscape play in his comics, how both prose and illustrations function for self-exploration, his thoughts on punk and the DIY aesthetic, and how his comics serve as a release for, as well as a reflection of, the many changes in his life. This isn't the first time John P. has been on The Comics Alternative -- he came on for an interview around the release of issue #76 of King-Cat Comics & Stories -- and the guys certainly hope that this isn't his last visit. And be sure to check out John's online store, Spit and a Half. There you can find not only his King-Cat Comics & Stories, but also a variety of other mini- and indie comics by other creators, as well! Mon, 26 Mar 2018 12:44:56 -0000 Another Interview with John Porcellino full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Despecking Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:50 - Setup of interview 00:04:21 - Interview with John Porcellino 01:21:07 - Wrap up 01:23:19 - Contact us Gene and Derek are excited to have John Porcellino back on the podcast. His new book From Lone Mountain has just been released by Drawn and Quarterly, and John talks in depth about the time in his life covered in this collection, as well as the process of pulling all of these experiences together. The book collects King-Cat Comics & Stories #62-#68, released between 2003-2007. The Two Guys ask John about the evolution of his compositional strategies, the role that place and landscape play in his comics, how both prose and illustrations function for self-exploration, his thoughts on punk and the DIY aesthetic, and how his comics serve as a release for, as well as a reflection of, the many changes in his life. This isn't the first time John P. has been on The Comics Alternative -- he came on for an interview around the release of issue #76 of King-Cat Comics & Stories -- and the guys certainly hope that this isn't his last visit. And be sure to check out John's online store, Spit and a Half. There you can find not only his King-Cat Comics & Stories, but also a variety of other mini- and indie comics by other creators, as well! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:50 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:21 - Interview with John Porcellino
  • 01:21:07 - Wrap up
  • 01:23:19 - Contact us

Gene and Derek are excited to have John Porcellino back on the podcast. His new book From Lone Mountain has just been released by Drawn and Quarterly, and John talks in depth about the time in his life covered in this collection, as well as the process of pulling all of these experiences together. The book collects King-Cat Comics & Stories #62-#68, released between 2003-2007. The Two Guys ask John about the evolution of his compositional strategies, the role that place and landscape play in his comics, how both prose and illustrations function for self-exploration, his thoughts on punk and the DIY aesthetic, and how his comics serve as a release for, as well as a reflection of, the many changes in his life. This isn't the first time John P. has been on The Comics Alternative -- he came on for an interview around the release of issue #76 of King-Cat Comics & Stories -- and the guys certainly hope that this isn't his last visit.

And be sure to check out John's online store, Spit and a Half. There you can find not only his King-Cat Comics & Stories, but also a variety of other mini- and indie comics by other creators, as well!

]]> 5228 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Slang Pictorial http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-slang-pictorial On this week's Kickstarter show, Derek talks with Nick Prolix about his campaign for Slang Pictorial #3. This will be a 24-page black-and-white comic, following up on on the already published first two hardcopy issues. Nick is using his first-ever Kickstarter in order to cover the comic's printing and shipping. Plus, he has a really cool promotional video! Slang Pictorial is Nick's one-person anthology comic, and it includes his serialized retro comedy-drama The Sheep And The Wolves. This story actually began as a webcomic, and it's a light-hearted look at the broken dreams and busted schemes of the many residents of a fictional London neighborhood at the start of the Swinging Sixties. Slang Pictorial also includes an assortment of other stories set in the same world. Backers can also get reprints of the first two issues of the anthology, and there are exclusive prints and art cards, as well. If you're a fan of Palookaville, Eightball, and Optic Nerve, then this is definitely a comic for you. Be sure to back Nick's Slang Pictorial! Sample Covers   Sat, 24 Mar 2018 13:25:03 -0000 Kickstarting Slang Pictorial full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Beehives and Quiffs On this week's Kickstarter show, Derek talks with Nick Prolix about his campaign for Slang Pictorial #3. This will be a 24-page black-and-white comic, following up on on the already published first two hardcopy issues. Nick is using his first-ever Kickstarter in order to cover the comic's printing and shipping. Plus, he has a really cool promotional video! Slang Pictorial is Nick's one-person anthology comic, and it includes his serialized retro comedy-drama The Sheep And The Wolves. This story actually began as a webcomic, and it's a light-hearted look at the broken dreams and busted schemes of the many residents of a fictional London neighborhood at the start of the Swinging Sixties. Slang Pictorial also includes an assortment of other stories set in the same world. Backers can also get reprints of the first two issues of the anthology, and there are exclusive prints and art cards, as well. If you're a fan of Palookaville, Eightball, and Optic Nerve, then this is definitely a comic for you. Be sure to back Nick's Slang Pictorial! Sample Covers  

On this week's Kickstarter show, Derek talks with Nick Prolix about his campaign for Slang Pictorial #3. This will be a 24-page black-and-white comic, following up on on the already published first two hardcopy issues. Nick is using his first-ever Kickstarter in order to cover the comic's printing and shipping. Plus, he has a really cool promotional video!

Slang Pictorial is Nick's one-person anthology comic, and it includes his serialized retro comedy-drama The Sheep And The Wolves. This story actually began as a webcomic, and it's a light-hearted look at the broken dreams and busted schemes of the many residents of a fictional London neighborhood at the start of the Swinging Sixties. Slang Pictorial also includes an assortment of other stories set in the same world.

Backers can also get reprints of the first two issues of the anthology, and there are exclusive prints and art cards, as well. If you're a fan of Palookaville, Eightball, and Optic Nerve, then this is definitely a comic for you. Be sure to back Nick's Slang Pictorial!

Sample Covers

 

]]> 1169 no On Location: The March Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-march-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find For the March on-location recording at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC, the topic of discussion is comics adapted into movies and television series (especially superhero properties), and if we're about to reach the point of oversaturation. Joining Derek in the conversation are shop customers Zyg, Jack, Jesse, Erica, and Christian. All of them are fans of superhero film and TV, and each brings a unique perspective to the discussion. And, as expected, everyone varies in their opinions on how much is too much when it comes to superhero adaptations. Among the various movies and series they discuss are Black Panther, the Iron Man series, Watchmen, The Crow, Justice League, Tim Burton's Batman, Gotham, the various Netflix series, and Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. They also talk about non-superhero comics adaptations such as Lucifer, iZombie, Ghost World, and, of course, The Walking Dead. And toward the end of their conversation, everyone expresses her or his own wish list of other properties that could be adapted into television series or films. Fri, 23 Mar 2018 12:34:12 -0000 The March Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal How Much Is Too Much? For the March on-location recording at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC, the topic of discussion is comics adapted into movies and television series (especially superhero properties), and if we're about to reach the point of oversaturation. Joining Derek in the conversation are shop customers Zyg, Jack, Jesse, Erica, and Christian. All of them are fans of superhero film and TV, and each brings a unique perspective to the discussion. And, as expected, everyone varies in their opinions on how much is too much when it comes to superhero adaptations. Among the various movies and series they discuss are Black Panther, the Iron Man series, Watchmen, The Crow, Justice League, Tim Burton's Batman, Gotham, the various Netflix series, and Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. They also talk about non-superhero comics adaptations such as Lucifer, iZombie, Ghost World, and, of course, The Walking Dead. And toward the end of their conversation, everyone expresses her or his own wish list of other properties that could be adapted into television series or films.

For the March on-location recording at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC, the topic of discussion is comics adapted into movies and television series (especially superhero properties), and if we're about to reach the point of oversaturation. Joining Derek in the conversation are shop customers Zyg, Jack, Jesse, Erica, and Christian. All of them are fans of superhero film and TV, and each brings a unique perspective to the discussion. And, as expected, everyone varies in their opinions on how much is too much when it comes to superhero adaptations. Among the various movies and series they discuss are Black Panther, the Iron Man series, Watchmen, The Crow, Justice League, Tim Burton's Batman, Gotham, the various Netflix series, and Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. They also talk about non-superhero comics adaptations such as Lucifer, iZombie, Ghost World, and, of course, The Walking Dead. And toward the end of their conversation, everyone expresses her or his own wish list of other properties that could be adapted into television series or films.

]]> 5518 no Episode 273: Reviews of Bizarre Romance, The Ballad of Sang #1, and Gideon Falls #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-273-reviews-of-bizarre-romance-the-ballad-of-sang-1-and-gideon-falls-1 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:42 - More listener mail! 00:11:43 - Bizarre Romance 00:54:10 - The Ballad of Sang #1 01:07:47 - Gideon Falls #1 01:29:11 - Wrap up 01:30:19 - Contact us On this week's review episode, Gene and Derek discuss three recent, and very different, titles. They begin with Bizarre Romance (Abrams ComicArt), an unusual "graphic novel" written by Audrey Niffenegger and with art from Eddie Campbell. The various stories that compose this collection are both comics and prose-centric pieces, and all of the selections have something to do with relationships in an off-kilter manner. Next, they look at Ed Brisson and Alessandro Micelli's The Ballad of Sang #1 (Oni Press). Inspired by 1970s and 1980s kung fu and action films, this first issue in the series introduces us to a young mute street fighter who becomes a fugitive and must fend for himself. Finally, Gene and Derek wrap up with the latest comic from Jeff Lemire, Gideon Falls #1. With art by Lemire's stalwart collaborator, Andrea Sorrentino -- they had previously worked together on Green Arrow and Old Man Logan -- this is a dark and moody narrative that points to what will become a fascinating monthly series. As Lemire writes in the brief essay that closes out this first issue, Gideon Falls is the realization of a couple of story ideas that the writer has contemplated since his days as a film student. Also, as the Two Guys share during their "listener mail" segment, English professor and dedicated listener Meghan Sweeney has set up a GoFundMe campaign that aspires, in the aftermath of the Parkland massacre, to get copies of John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell's March trilogy into the hands of teens who might not otherwise have access to them. Please go fund this idea, and help spread the word! Wed, 21 Mar 2018 14:33:14 -0000 Reviews of Bizarre Romance, The Ballad of Sang #1, and Gideon Falls #1 full 273 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Good squishy sounds" Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:42 - More listener mail! 00:11:43 - Bizarre Romance 00:54:10 - The Ballad of Sang #1 01:07:47 - Gideon Falls #1 01:29:11 - Wrap up 01:30:19 - Contact us On this week's review episode, Gene and Derek discuss three recent, and very different, titles. They begin with Bizarre Romance (Abrams ComicArt), an unusual "graphic novel" written by Audrey Niffenegger and with art from Eddie Campbell. The various stories that compose this collection are both comics and prose-centric pieces, and all of the selections have something to do with relationships in an off-kilter manner. Next, they look at Ed Brisson and Alessandro Micelli's The Ballad of Sang #1 (Oni Press). Inspired by 1970s and 1980s kung fu and action films, this first issue in the series introduces us to a young mute street fighter who becomes a fugitive and must fend for himself. Finally, Gene and Derek wrap up with the latest comic from Jeff Lemire, Gideon Falls #1. With art by Lemire's stalwart collaborator, Andrea Sorrentino -- they had previously worked together on Green Arrow and Old Man Logan -- this is a dark and moody narrative that points to what will become a fascinating monthly series. As Lemire writes in the brief essay that closes out this first issue, Gideon Falls is the realization of a couple of story ideas that the writer has contemplated since his days as a film student. Also, as the Two Guys share during their "listener mail" segment, English professor and dedicated listener Meghan Sweeney has set up a GoFundMe campaign that aspires, in the aftermath of the Parkland massacre, to get copies of John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell's March trilogy into the hands of teens who might not otherwise have access to them. Please go fund this idea, and help spread the word! Time Codes:

On this week's review episode, Gene and Derek discuss three recent, and very different, titles. They begin with Bizarre Romance (Abrams ComicArt), an unusual "graphic novel" written by Audrey Niffenegger and with art from Eddie Campbell. The various stories that compose this collection are both comics and prose-centric pieces, and all of the selections have something to do with relationships in an off-kilter manner. Next, they look at Ed Brisson and Alessandro Micelli's The Ballad of Sang #1 (Oni Press). Inspired by 1970s and 1980s kung fu and action films, this first issue in the series introduces us to a young mute street fighter who becomes a fugitive and must fend for himself. Finally, Gene and Derek wrap up with the latest comic from Jeff Lemire, Gideon Falls #1. With art by Lemire's stalwart collaborator, Andrea Sorrentino -- they had previously worked together on Green Arrow and Old Man Logan -- this is a dark and moody narrative that points to what will become a fascinating monthly series. As Lemire writes in the brief essay that closes out this first issue, Gideon Falls is the realization of a couple of story ideas that the writer has contemplated since his days as a film student.

Also, as the Two Guys share during their "listener mail" segment, English professor and dedicated listener Meghan Sweeney has set up a GoFundMe campaign that aspires, in the aftermath of the Parkland massacre, to get copies of John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell's March trilogy into the hands of teens who might not otherwise have access to them. Please go fund this idea, and help spread the word!

]]> 5683 no Euro Comics: Reviews of The Initiates and Satania http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-the-initiates-and-satania Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:05 - Pascal joins the podcast! 00:16:560 - Listener mail 00:20:40 - The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs 01:05:24 - Satania 01:48:51 - Wrap up 01:50:59 - Contact us For the March episode of the Euro Comics series, Pascal Hamon joins Derek to discuss two recent books from NBM Graphic Novels. They begin with Étienne Davodeau's The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs, an autobiographical account of the artist and his friend's mutual education on what the other does. As Pascal points out, the majority of this narrative concerns Davodeau learning about winemaking and literally getting his hands dirty during the process. Not as much space is given to his friend, Richard Leroy, as he is initiated into the comics industry in France, but this makes sense, given the fact that Davodeau is the author of this account and spends a lot of time revealing what he has learned. After that, Pascal and Derek discuss Satania, the most recent collaboration between Fabien Vehlmann and Kerascoët. Their earlier book, Beautiful Darkness, was actually something discussed on the Euro Comics episode in January of last year. This is a similarly fantastical narrative and is, in fact, quite a bit wilder than the earlier book. On the literal level, this is a journey underground, but the guys read this text as more of a psychological narrative. Its young protagonist, Charlotte, while searching for her lost older brother is nonetheless coming to terms with her own issues as she becomes a grown woman. And, of course, Kerascoët's art is mesmerizing. This marks the debut of Pascal as the new cohost for the Euro Comics series, taking over from Edward while he is on hiatus. Please be sure to contact the Two Guys and welcome Pascal to the podcast!   Mon, 19 Mar 2018 17:48:05 -0000 Reviews of The Initiates and Satania full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Journeys Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:05 - Pascal joins the podcast! 00:16:560 - Listener mail 00:20:40 - The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs 01:05:24 - Satania 01:48:51 - Wrap up 01:50:59 - Contact us For the March episode of the Euro Comics series, Pascal Hamon joins Derek to discuss two recent books from NBM Graphic Novels. They begin with Étienne Davodeau's The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs, an autobiographical account of the artist and his friend's mutual education on what the other does. As Pascal points out, the majority of this narrative concerns Davodeau learning about winemaking and literally getting his hands dirty during the process. Not as much space is given to his friend, Richard Leroy, as he is initiated into the comics industry in France, but this makes sense, given the fact that Davodeau is the author of this account and spends a lot of time revealing what he has learned. After that, Pascal and Derek discuss Satania, the most recent collaboration between Fabien Vehlmann and Kerascoët. Their earlier book, Beautiful Darkness, was actually something discussed on the Euro Comics episode in January of last year. This is a similarly fantastical narrative and is, in fact, quite a bit wilder than the earlier book. On the literal level, this is a journey underground, but the guys read this text as more of a psychological narrative. Its young protagonist, Charlotte, while searching for her lost older brother is nonetheless coming to terms with her own issues as she becomes a grown woman. And, of course, Kerascoët's art is mesmerizing. This marks the debut of Pascal as the new cohost for the Euro Comics series, taking over from Edward while he is on hiatus. Please be sure to contact the Two Guys and welcome Pascal to the podcast!   Time Codes:

For the March episode of the Euro Comics series, Pascal Hamon joins Derek to discuss two recent books from NBM Graphic Novels. They begin with Étienne Davodeau's The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs, an autobiographical account of the artist and his friend's mutual education on what the other does. As Pascal points out, the majority of this narrative concerns Davodeau learning about winemaking and literally getting his hands dirty during the process. Not as much space is given to his friend, Richard Leroy, as he is initiated into the comics industry in France, but this makes sense, given the fact that Davodeau is the author of this account and spends a lot of time revealing what he has learned.

After that, Pascal and Derek discuss Satania, the most recent collaboration between Fabien Vehlmann and Kerascoët. Their earlier book, Beautiful Darkness, was actually something discussed on the Euro Comics episode in January of last year. This is a similarly fantastical narrative and is, in fact, quite a bit wilder than the earlier book. On the literal level, this is a journey underground, but the guys read this text as more of a psychological narrative. Its young protagonist, Charlotte, while searching for her lost older brother is nonetheless coming to terms with her own issues as she becomes a grown woman. And, of course, Kerascoët's art is mesmerizing.

This marks the debut of Pascal as the new cohost for the Euro Comics series, taking over from Edward while he is on hiatus. Please be sure to contact the Two Guys and welcome Pascal to the podcast!

 

]]> 6853 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Kilgore Books and Comics' 2018 Releases http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-kilgore-books-and-comics-2018-releases This week's Kickstarter episode is brought to you by the great folks at Kilgore Books and Comics. If that publisher sounds familiar, that's because the Two Guys have discussed a variety of Kilgore publications in the past...including a publisher spotlight episode back in 2016! Its current Kickstarter campaign is all about their 2018 releases. Dan Stafford, Kilgore's head honcho, talks with Derek about the various titles scheduled for this year, and there are a lot. Backers can look forward to: Blammo #10, by Noah Van Sciver Tinderella, by M.S. Harkness Tommy Time, by Tom Van Deusen Baseline Blvd, by Emi Gennis Lawns, by Alex Nall September 12, by Robert Sergel Angloid, by Alex Graham Monkey Chef: A Love Story, by Mike Freiheit And an untitled Inechi comic by Inés Estrada As listeners of The Comics Alternative know, Kilgore publishes great titles, the kind that define what the podcast is all about. So be sure to back this campaign and get your batch of 2018 releases from Kilgore Books and Comics! Sample Covers Sat, 17 Mar 2018 02:07:34 -0000 Kickstarting Kilgore Books and Comics' 2018 Releases full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Kilgore! This week's Kickstarter episode is brought to you by the great folks at Kilgore Books and Comics. If that publisher sounds familiar, that's because the Two Guys have discussed a variety of Kilgore publications in the past...including a publisher spotlight episode back in 2016! Its current Kickstarter campaign is all about their 2018 releases. Dan Stafford, Kilgore's head honcho, talks with Derek about the various titles scheduled for this year, and there are a lot. Backers can look forward to: Blammo #10, by Noah Van Sciver Tinderella, by M.S. Harkness Tommy Time, by Tom Van Deusen Baseline Blvd, by Emi Gennis Lawns, by Alex Nall September 12, by Robert Sergel Angloid, by Alex Graham Monkey Chef: A Love Story, by Mike Freiheit And an untitled Inechi comic by Inés Estrada As listeners of The Comics Alternative know, Kilgore publishes great titles, the kind that define what the podcast is all about. So be sure to back this campaign and get your batch of 2018 releases from Kilgore Books and Comics! Sample Covers

This week's Kickstarter episode is brought to you by the great folks at Kilgore Books and Comics. If that publisher sounds familiar, that's because the Two Guys have discussed a variety of Kilgore publications in the past...including a publisher spotlight episode back in 2016!

Its current Kickstarter campaign is all about their 2018 releases. Dan Stafford, Kilgore's head honcho, talks with Derek about the various titles scheduled for this year, and there are a lot. Backers can look forward to:

  • Blammo #10, by Noah Van Sciver
  • Tinderella, by M.S. Harkness
  • Tommy Time, by Tom Van Deusen
  • Baseline Blvd, by Emi Gennis
  • Lawns, by Alex Nall
  • September 12, by Robert Sergel
  • Angloid, by Alex Graham
  • Monkey Chef: A Love Story, by Mike Freiheit
  • And an untitled Inechi comic by Inés Estrada

As listeners of The Comics Alternative know, Kilgore publishes great titles, the kind that define what the podcast is all about. So be sure to back this campaign and get your batch of 2018 releases from Kilgore Books and Comics!

Sample Covers

]]> 1850 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Ho Che Anderson http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-ho-che-anderson Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:45 - Setup of interview 00:06:17 - Interview with Ho Che Anderson 01:12:00 - Wrap up 01:14:51 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gene and Derek talk with Ho Che Anderson about his new book Godhead, coming out next week from Fantagraphics Books. This is a work of speculative fiction involving corporate culture and its attempts to communicate with God. It's an ambitious narrative that zeroes in on the juncture of religion, technology, and capitalist greed. The book is the first of two volumes exploring this futuristic world, and it's a project that Anderson has been developing for years. The guys talk extensively with their guest about the genesis of and the creative process underlying Godhead, but they also ask about his larger body of work and its sheer diversity, from the erotic I Want to Be Your Dog, to the five-issue series (along with Wilfred Santiago) Pop Life, to the text he's perhaps best known for, his graphic biography of Martin Luther King. Both Gene and Derek have been big fans of Anderson's comics for years, and they're excited to finally get him on the podcast. Listen up and learn! Fri, 16 Mar 2018 13:34:39 -0000 An Interview with Ho Che Anderson full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Are You Sitting Comfortably? Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:45 - Setup of interview 00:06:17 - Interview with Ho Che Anderson 01:12:00 - Wrap up 01:14:51 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gene and Derek talk with Ho Che Anderson about his new book Godhead, coming out next week from Fantagraphics Books. This is a work of speculative fiction involving corporate culture and its attempts to communicate with God. It's an ambitious narrative that zeroes in on the juncture of religion, technology, and capitalist greed. The book is the first of two volumes exploring this futuristic world, and it's a project that Anderson has been developing for years. The guys talk extensively with their guest about the genesis of and the creative process underlying Godhead, but they also ask about his larger body of work and its sheer diversity, from the erotic I Want to Be Your Dog, to the five-issue series (along with Wilfred Santiago) Pop Life, to the text he's perhaps best known for, his graphic biography of Martin Luther King. Both Gene and Derek have been big fans of Anderson's comics for years, and they're excited to finally get him on the podcast. Listen up and learn! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:45 - Setup of interview
  • 00:06:17 - Interview with Ho Che Anderson
  • 01:12:00 - Wrap up
  • 01:14:51 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Gene and Derek talk with Ho Che Anderson about his new book Godhead, coming out next week from Fantagraphics Books. This is a work of speculative fiction involving corporate culture and its attempts to communicate with God. It's an ambitious narrative that zeroes in on the juncture of religion, technology, and capitalist greed. The book is the first of two volumes exploring this futuristic world, and it's a project that Anderson has been developing for years. The guys talk extensively with their guest about the genesis of and the creative process underlying Godhead, but they also ask about his larger body of work and its sheer diversity, from the erotic I Want to Be Your Dog, to the five-issue series (along with Wilfred Santiago) Pop Life, to the text he's perhaps best known for, his graphic biography of Martin Luther King. Both Gene and Derek have been big fans of Anderson's comics for years, and they're excited to finally get him on the podcast. Listen up and learn!

]]> 4686 yes Episode 272: Reviews of Babylon Berlin, The True Death of Billy the Kid, and The Highest House #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-272-reviews-of-babylon-berlin-the-true-death-of-billy-the-kid-and-the-highest-house-1 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:09 - Get on our email list! 00:05:45 - Listener research 00:08:22 - Babylon Berlin 00:47:05 - The True Death of Billy the Kid 01:12:53 - The Highest House #1 01:28:59 - Wrap up 01:30:08 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three recent titles, all of which concern mysteries. They begin with Babylon Berlin (Titan Comics), Arne Jysch's comics adaptation of Volker Kutscher's noir prose novel. It takes place in 1929 Berlin and set in the Weimar Republic, with all of its historical and cultural contexts embedded within. The guys are very impressed with Jysch and Kutscher's narrative, and they spend a lot of time not only discussing the work as an example of crime noir, but also the issues involved in adapting a text from one medium to another (including the recent Netflix series). Next, they look at Rick Geary's latest efforts, The True Death of Billy The Kid (NBM Graphic Novels). This began as a Kickstarter campaign back in 2014, and in many ways it follows the format of Geary's true crime comics. Indeed, both Derek and Gene are big fans of Geary's art and his handling of the history and research surrounding infamous deeds. This is not a biography of Billy the Kid, but true to the book's title, it focuses on the days that lead up to the death of this legendary figure. Finally, the Two Guys turn their attention to The Highest House #1 (IDW Publishing). Released in conjunction with the French publisher Glénat Editions, this brings back together Mike Carey, Peter Gross, and Yuko Shimizu, the creative team that brought us The Unwritten. This story is more of an overt fantasy than the previous series. The inaugural issue sets a solid foundation for Carey's world building, and as both Gene and Derek observe, the larger album format allows a full display of Gross's marvelous art. Wed, 14 Mar 2018 14:47:34 -0000 Reviews of Babylon Berlin, The True Death of Billy the Kid, and The Highest House #1 full 272 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mysteries Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:09 - Get on our email list! 00:05:45 - Listener research 00:08:22 - Babylon Berlin 00:47:05 - The True Death of Billy the Kid 01:12:53 - The Highest House #1 01:28:59 - Wrap up 01:30:08 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three recent titles, all of which concern mysteries. They begin with Babylon Berlin (Titan Comics), Arne Jysch's comics adaptation of Volker Kutscher's noir prose novel. It takes place in 1929 Berlin and set in the Weimar Republic, with all of its historical and cultural contexts embedded within. The guys are very impressed with Jysch and Kutscher's narrative, and they spend a lot of time not only discussing the work as an example of crime noir, but also the issues involved in adapting a text from one medium to another (including the recent Netflix series). Next, they look at Rick Geary's latest efforts, The True Death of Billy The Kid (NBM Graphic Novels). This began as a Kickstarter campaign back in 2014, and in many ways it follows the format of Geary's true crime comics. Indeed, both Derek and Gene are big fans of Geary's art and his handling of the history and research surrounding infamous deeds. This is not a biography of Billy the Kid, but true to the book's title, it focuses on the days that lead up to the death of this legendary figure. Finally, the Two Guys turn their attention to The Highest House #1 (IDW Publishing). Released in conjunction with the French publisher Glénat Editions, this brings back together Mike Carey, Peter Gross, and Yuko Shimizu, the creative team that brought us The Unwritten. This story is more of an overt fantasy than the previous series. The inaugural issue sets a solid foundation for Carey's world building, and as both Gene and Derek observe, the larger album format allows a full display of Gross's marvelous art. Time Codes:

This week Gene and Derek discuss three recent titles, all of which concern mysteries. They begin with Babylon Berlin (Titan Comics), Arne Jysch's comics adaptation of Volker Kutscher's noir prose novel. It takes place in 1929 Berlin and set in the Weimar Republic, with all of its historical and cultural contexts embedded within. The guys are very impressed with Jysch and Kutscher's narrative, and they spend a lot of time not only discussing the work as an example of crime noir, but also the issues involved in adapting a text from one medium to another (including the recent Netflix series).

Next, they look at Rick Geary's latest efforts, The True Death of Billy The Kid (NBM Graphic Novels). This began as a Kickstarter campaign back in 2014, and in many ways it follows the format of Geary's true crime comics. Indeed, both Derek and Gene are big fans of Geary's art and his handling of the history and research surrounding infamous deeds. This is not a biography of Billy the Kid, but true to the book's title, it focuses on the days that lead up to the death of this legendary figure.

Finally, the Two Guys turn their attention to The Highest House #1 (IDW Publishing). Released in conjunction with the French publisher Glénat Editions, this brings back together Mike Carey, Peter Gross, and Yuko Shimizu, the creative team that brought us The Unwritten. This story is more of an overt fantasy than the previous series. The inaugural issue sets a solid foundation for Carey's world building, and as both Gene and Derek observe, the larger album format allows a full display of Gross's marvelous art.

]]> 5632 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: The Not So Golden Age #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-the-not-so-golden-age-2 This weekend Derek talks with Joseph Freistuhler about his current Kickstarter project, The Not So Gold Age #2. This parody of the superhero genre is actually a webcomic, the first physical issue of which Joseph and his co-creator Phil Buck successfully Kickstarted back in 2016. How they're back to bring the second issue into paper existence. The Not So Golden Age is the story of several washed up, dysfunctional superheroes. They were once the premier heroes of their generation, but having been unused for so long, they're relegated to the dreaded public domain. As a result, they now reside in a trailer park outside of Reno, Nevada. That happens. As Derek's talk with Joseph reveals, this is a project steeped in humor, from the narrative itself to the mock ads that populate the insides. As the writer reveals upfront in his Kickstarter disclaimer, "This comic may not actually be the best comic you will ever read. However, it is the best comic book my mother will ever read!" So please, join Joseph's mother in enjoying the warm, nougaty, comics-filled goodness of The Not So Golden Age by backing the printing of the second issue! You'll be glad you did. Sample Art Fri, 09 Mar 2018 11:51:40 -0000 Kickstarting The Not So Golden Age #2 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Super? This weekend Derek talks with Joseph Freistuhler about his current Kickstarter project, The Not So Gold Age #2. This parody of the superhero genre is actually a webcomic, the first physical issue of which Joseph and his co-creator Phil Buck successfully Kickstarted back in 2016. How they're back to bring the second issue into paper existence. The Not So Golden Age is the story of several washed up, dysfunctional superheroes. They were once the premier heroes of their generation, but having been unused for so long, they're relegated to the dreaded public domain. As a result, they now reside in a trailer park outside of Reno, Nevada. That happens. As Derek's talk with Joseph reveals, this is a project steeped in humor, from the narrative itself to the mock ads that populate the insides. As the writer reveals upfront in his Kickstarter disclaimer, "This comic may not actually be the best comic you will ever read. However, it is the best comic book my mother will ever read!" So please, join Joseph's mother in enjoying the warm, nougaty, comics-filled goodness of The Not So Golden Age by backing the printing of the second issue! You'll be glad you did. Sample Art

This weekend Derek talks with Joseph Freistuhler about his current Kickstarter project, The Not So Gold Age #2. This parody of the superhero genre is actually a webcomic, the first physical issue of which Joseph and his co-creator Phil Buck successfully Kickstarted back in 2016. How they're back to bring the second issue into paper existence.

The Not So Golden Age is the story of several washed up, dysfunctional superheroes. They were once the premier heroes of their generation, but having been unused for so long, they're relegated to the dreaded public domain. As a result, they now reside in a trailer park outside of Reno, Nevada. That happens.

As Derek's talk with Joseph reveals, this is a project steeped in humor, from the narrative itself to the mock ads that populate the insides. As the writer reveals upfront in his Kickstarter disclaimer, "This comic may not actually be the best comic you will ever read. However, it is the best comic book my mother will ever read!"

So please, join Joseph's mother in enjoying the warm, nougaty, comics-filled goodness of The Not So Golden Age by backing the printing of the second issue! You'll be glad you did.

Sample Art

]]> 1039 yes Webcomics: Reviews of Everblue, Handrava, and Warning Label http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-everblue-handrava-and-warning-label Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:56 - We get mail! 00:08:08 - Everblue 00:34:53 - Handrava 01:07:31 - Warning Label 01:33:36 - Wrap up 01:35:17 - Contact us For the month of March, Sean and Derek discuss three webcomics that are very different in terms of art style and storytelling technique. However, what all three have in common is a focus on relationships. They start off with Michael Sexton's Everblue, a fantastical tale about two young adventurers who want to explore their world while at the same time avoiding the threats that are in pursuit. After that the guys discuss Handrava, a more realistic narrative set in Madagascar's capital city. It's author Rado R. captures the rhythms and flavors of his subject matter through both the dialogue and the visual layout of his scripting. Finally, Derek and Sean turn to a recently completed webcomic, Thom Zahler's Warning Label. As with the creator's previous works -- most notably Love and Capes, Long Distance, and Time and Vine -- the focus is on relationships and its unpredictable contours. This is yet another impressive work from Zahler, and one that will leave you, once again, with a warm and positive feeling.   Fri, 09 Mar 2018 11:14:06 -0000 A Discussion of the Webcomics Everblue, Handrava, and Warning Label full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Relationships Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:56 - We get mail! 00:08:08 - Everblue 00:34:53 - Handrava 01:07:31 - Warning Label 01:33:36 - Wrap up 01:35:17 - Contact us For the month of March, Sean and Derek discuss three webcomics that are very different in terms of art style and storytelling technique. However, what all three have in common is a focus on relationships. They start off with Michael Sexton's Everblue, a fantastical tale about two young adventurers who want to explore their world while at the same time avoiding the threats that are in pursuit. After that the guys discuss Handrava, a more realistic narrative set in Madagascar's capital city. It's author Rado R. captures the rhythms and flavors of his subject matter through both the dialogue and the visual layout of his scripting. Finally, Derek and Sean turn to a recently completed webcomic, Thom Zahler's Warning Label. As with the creator's previous works -- most notably Love and Capes, Long Distance, and Time and Vine -- the focus is on relationships and its unpredictable contours. This is yet another impressive work from Zahler, and one that will leave you, once again, with a warm and positive feeling.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:56 - We get mail!
  • 00:08:08 - Everblue
  • 00:34:53 - Handrava
  • 01:07:31 - Warning Label
  • 01:33:36 - Wrap up
  • 01:35:17 - Contact us

For the month of March, Sean and Derek discuss three webcomics that are very different in terms of art style and storytelling technique. However, what all three have in common is a focus on relationships. They start off with Michael Sexton's Everblue, a fantastical tale about two young adventurers who want to explore their world while at the same time avoiding the threats that are in pursuit. After that the guys discuss Handrava, a more realistic narrative set in Madagascar's capital city. It's author Rado R. captures the rhythms and flavors of his subject matter through both the dialogue and the visual layout of his scripting. Finally, Derek and Sean turn to a recently completed webcomic, Thom Zahler's Warning Label. As with the creator's previous works -- most notably Love and Capes, Long Distance, and Time and Vine -- the focus is on relationships and its unpredictable contours. This is yet another impressive work from Zahler, and one that will leave you, once again, with a warm and positive feeling.

 

]]> 5907 no Episode 271: The March Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-271-the-march-previews-catalog It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time once again to look at the latest Previews catalog. For the month of March, Gene and Derek step up to the plate to take a swing at the many solicitations, highlighting what they consider the most notable upcoming titles. In fact, there's so much to choose from, that this month's Previews episode is an extra-long show...running for almost three hours! Are the Two Guys up to the challenge? Do they heroically take on an unwieldy  amount of material, or do they unnecessarily extend what could have been covered in a more manageable hour and a half? Listen to the episode, and you decide. And while doing so, you'll discover many new comic books and graphic novels such as those published by: Dark Horse Comics - Ether: The Copper Golems #1, Dork, Blackwood #1, and Brooklyn Blood DC Comics - Batman by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale Omnibus and The Ruff and Reddy Show IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Strong Female Protagonist Vol. 2, Gumballs, Lost Girls: Expanded Edition, Come Again, and The Silence of Malka Image Comics - Barrier: Collectors Edition #1-#5, Death or Glory #1, Flavor #1, Where We Live: Las Vegas Shooting Benefit Anthology, It Will All Hurt, Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses Vol. 1, and Street Angel Goes to Juvie Aftershock Comics - A Walk through Hell #1 Adhouse - Young Frances Alternative Comics - True Stories #3 Arcade Publishing - James Joyce: Portrait as a Dubliner: A Graphic Biography Black Mask Studios - Dismantlers #1 BOOM! Studios - Coda #1, Fraggle Rock #1, and Run Wild Chronicle Books - The Many Deaths of Scott Koblish Conundrum Press - Weegee: Serial Photographer Drawn and Quarterly - Love That Bunch, The Mushroom Fan Club, and Sabrina Fantagraphics Books - Garlandia, The Weaver Festival Phenomenon, and Rock Steady First Second - All Summer Long Gallery 13 - All the Answers Humanoids - Vietnamese Memories, Book 1: Leaving Saigon Knockabout Comics - Bloke's Progress Kodansha Comics - Sailor Moon Eternal Edition, Vol. 2 Koyama Press - The Ideal Copy, A Western World, Somnambulance, and XTC69 Lion Forge - The Big Empty Life of Alphonse Tabouret and The Enchanted Chest NBM - The Garden of Secrets New York Review Comics - Slum Wolf Nobrow - Mean Girls Club: Pink Dawn Oni Press - Letter 44: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 and Heartthrob Vol. 2 Quirk Books - Manfred the Man Rebellion/2000Ad - The Ballad of Halo Jones, Book 1 Retrofit Comics - The Winner and The Troublemakers Rosarium Publishing - The Hookah Girls and Other True Stories SelfMadeHero - The Communist Manifesto and Tumult Seven Seas Entertainment - Claudine and My Solo Exchange Diary Silver Sprocket - Unfinished...3 Poems by Tom Neely Titan Comics - Violent Cases: 30th Anniversary Edition, 2021: Lost Children #1, and Yragaël and Urm the Madman Ten Speed Press - The Comic Book Story of Baseball     Wed, 07 Mar 2018 16:58:23 -0000 A Look at the March Previews Catalog full 271 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mischievous Two-Headed Mummy-Chimp It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time once again to look at the latest Previews catalog. For the month of March, Gene and Derek step up to the plate to take a swing at the many solicitations, highlighting what they consider the most notable upcoming titles. In fact, there's so much to choose from, that this month's Previews episode is an extra-long show...running for almost three hours! Are the Two Guys up to the challenge? Do they heroically take on an unwieldy  amount of material, or do they unnecessarily extend what could have been covered in a more manageable hour and a half? Listen to the episode, and you decide. And while doing so, you'll discover many new comic books and graphic novels such as those published by: Dark Horse Comics - Ether: The Copper Golems #1, Dork, Blackwood #1, and Brooklyn Blood DC Comics - Batman by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale Omnibus and The Ruff and Reddy Show IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Strong Female Protagonist Vol. 2, Gumballs, Lost Girls: Expanded Edition, Come Again, and The Silence of Malka Image Comics - Barrier: Collectors Edition #1-#5, Death or Glory #1, Flavor #1, Where We Live: Las Vegas Shooting Benefit Anthology, It Will All Hurt, Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses Vol. 1, and Street Angel Goes to Juvie Aftershock Comics - A Walk through Hell #1 Adhouse - Young Frances Alternative Comics - True Stories #3 Arcade Publishing - James Joyce: Portrait as a Dubliner: A Graphic Biography Black Mask Studios - Dismantlers #1 BOOM! Studios - Coda #1, Fraggle Rock #1, and Run Wild Chronicle Books - The Many Deaths of Scott Koblish Conundrum Press - Weegee: Serial Photographer Drawn and Quarterly - Love That Bunch, The Mushroom Fan Club, and Sabrina Fantagraphics Books - Garlandia, The Weaver Festival Phenomenon, and Rock Steady First Second - All Summer Long Gallery 13 - All the Answers Humanoids - Vietnamese Memories, Book 1: Leaving Saigon Knockabout Comics - Bloke's Progress Kodansha Comics - Sailor Moon Eternal Edition, Vol. 2 Koyama Press - The Ideal Copy, A Western World, Somnambulance, and XTC69 Lion Forge - The Big Empty Life of Alphonse Tabouret and The Enchanted Chest NBM - The Garden of Secrets New York Review Comics - Slum Wolf Nobrow - Mean Girls Club: Pink Dawn Oni Press - Letter 44: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 and Heartthrob Vol. 2 Quirk Books - Manfred the Man Rebellion/2000Ad - The Ballad of Halo Jones, Book 1 Retrofit Comics - The Winner and The Troublemakers Rosarium Publishing - The Hookah Girls and Other True Stories SelfMadeHero - The Communist Manifesto and Tumult Seven Seas Entertainment - Claudine and My Solo Exchange Diary Silver Sprocket - Unfinished...3 Poems by Tom Neely Titan Comics - Violent Cases: 30th Anniversary Edition, 2021: Lost Children #1, and Yragaël and Urm the Madman Ten Speed Press - The Comic Book Story of Baseball    

It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time once again to look at the latest Previews catalog. For the month of March, Gene and Derek step up to the plate to take a swing at the many solicitations, highlighting what they consider the most notable upcoming titles. In fact, there's so much to choose from, that this month's Previews episode is an extra-long show...running for almost three hours! Are the Two Guys up to the challenge? Do they heroically take on an unwieldy  amount of material, or do they unnecessarily extend what could have been covered in a more manageable hour and a half? Listen to the episode, and you decide. And while doing so, you'll discover many new comic books and graphic novels such as those published by:

 

 

]]> 10686 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Ivy Noelle Weir and Steenz http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-ivy-noelle-weir-and-steenz Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:22 - Setup of interview 03:26 - Interview with Ivy Noelle Weir and Steenz 49:58 - Wrap up 50:30 - Contact us Derek talks with Ivy Noelle Weir and Christina "Steenz" Steward about their new book coming out this week from Oni Press, Archival Quality. It’s the story of a young woman who gets a job as a museum archivist, but who soon discovers that her new place of employment is haunted. As she investigates the mystery behind the spectral activity, she also confronts her struggles with mental health and the relationships that have sustained her in the past. Over the course of the conversation, Ivy and Steenz share the genesis of the narrative, their methods of collaboration, and the story’s thematic observations and keen cultural awareness. Tue, 06 Mar 2018 13:30:02 -0000 An interview with Ivy Noelle Weir and Christina "Steenz" Stewart full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Ask a Librarian Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:22 - Setup of interview 03:26 - Interview with Ivy Noelle Weir and Steenz 49:58 - Wrap up 50:30 - Contact us Derek talks with Ivy Noelle Weir and Christina "Steenz" Steward about their new book coming out this week from Oni Press, Archival Quality. It’s the story of a young woman who gets a job as a museum archivist, but who soon discovers that her new place of employment is haunted. As she investigates the mystery behind the spectral activity, she also confronts her struggles with mental health and the relationships that have sustained her in the past. Over the course of the conversation, Ivy and Steenz share the genesis of the narrative, their methods of collaboration, and the story’s thematic observations and keen cultural awareness. Time Codes:

  • 00:26 - Introduction
  • 02:22 - Setup of interview
  • 03:26 - Interview with Ivy Noelle Weir and Steenz
  • 49:58 - Wrap up
  • 50:30 - Contact us

Derek talks with Ivy Noelle Weir and Christina "Steenz" Steward about their new book coming out this week from Oni Press, Archival Quality. It’s the story of a young woman who gets a job as a museum archivist, but who soon discovers that her new place of employment is haunted. As she investigates the mystery behind the spectral activity, she also confronts her struggles with mental health and the relationships that have sustained her in the past. Over the course of the conversation, Ivy and Steenz share the genesis of the narrative, their methods of collaboration, and the story’s thematic observations and keen cultural awareness.

]]> 3202 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Talking with Denis Kitchen for Will Eisner Week 2018 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-talking-with-denis-kitchen-for-will-eisner-week-2018 Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup of interview 00:04:05 - Interview with Denis Kitchen 01:10:35 - Wrap up 01:11:35 - Contact us We're in the middle of Will Eisner Week 2018, and over the past several years The Comics Alternative has offered special episodes to celebrate the annual event. This year is no exception. On this episode, Derek is pleased to have back on the podcast Denis Kitchen, this time discussing his relationship with the comics legend, his history with him as a publisher and businessman, and his first-hand accounts of the various career moves  Will Eisner experienced beginning in the 1970s. Along the way Denis talks with Derek about his first encounters with Eisner, how Kitchen Sink Comics helped to introduce The Spirit to a whole new generation, Eisner's evolution as a graphic novelist, and his experiences in working with Eisner as both an editor and as an agent. Mon, 05 Mar 2018 13:42:36 -0000 Talking with Denis Kitchen for Will Eisner Week 2018 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Where There's a Will... Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup of interview 00:04:05 - Interview with Denis Kitchen 01:10:35 - Wrap up 01:11:35 - Contact us We're in the middle of Will Eisner Week 2018, and over the past several years The Comics Alternative has offered special episodes to celebrate the annual event. This year is no exception. On this episode, Derek is pleased to have back on the podcast Denis Kitchen, this time discussing his relationship with the comics legend, his history with him as a publisher and businessman, and his first-hand accounts of the various career moves  Will Eisner experienced beginning in the 1970s. Along the way Denis talks with Derek about his first encounters with Eisner, how Kitchen Sink Comics helped to introduce The Spirit to a whole new generation, Eisner's evolution as a graphic novelist, and his experiences in working with Eisner as both an editor and as an agent. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:37 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:05 - Interview with Denis Kitchen
  • 01:10:35 - Wrap up
  • 01:11:35 - Contact us

We're in the middle of Will Eisner Week 2018, and over the past several years The Comics Alternative has offered special episodes to celebrate the annual event. This year is no exception. On this episode, Derek is pleased to have back on the podcast Denis Kitchen, this time discussing his relationship with the comics legend, his history with him as a publisher and businessman, and his first-hand accounts of the various career moves  Will Eisner experienced beginning in the 1970s. Along the way Denis talks with Derek about his first encounters with Eisner, how Kitchen Sink Comics helped to introduce The Spirit to a whole new generation, Eisner's evolution as a graphic novelist, and his experiences in working with Eisner as both an editor and as an agent.

]]> 4473 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: The North Star: The Emancipation of Frederick Douglass http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-the-north-star-the-emancipation-of-frederick-douglass On this weekend's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Barron Bell and Koi Turnbull about their campaign The North Star: The Emancipation of Frederick Douglass. It's a graphic adaptation of the memoir, Life and Times of Frederick Douglass, and it's the first of three planned volumes on Douglass's life. The North Star is a dramatic retelling of three pivotal moments in Frederick Douglass's story, bringing to life the legendary figure's efforts as an abolitionist, a businessman, a politician, and a man of faith. There are a variety of reward levels, some of which underscore this project's goal as an educational tool. Support these noble intentions by backing this Kickstarter campaign. And learn more about the work of Barron Bell and Koi Turnbull. Sample Art Sat, 03 Mar 2018 12:35:32 -0000 Kickstarting The North Star: The Emancipation of Frederick Douglass full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Inspiring On this weekend's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Barron Bell and Koi Turnbull about their campaign The North Star: The Emancipation of Frederick Douglass. It's a graphic adaptation of the memoir, Life and Times of Frederick Douglass, and it's the first of three planned volumes on Douglass's life. The North Star is a dramatic retelling of three pivotal moments in Frederick Douglass's story, bringing to life the legendary figure's efforts as an abolitionist, a businessman, a politician, and a man of faith. There are a variety of reward levels, some of which underscore this project's goal as an educational tool. Support these noble intentions by backing this Kickstarter campaign. And learn more about the work of Barron Bell and Koi Turnbull. Sample Art

On this weekend's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Barron Bell and Koi Turnbull about their campaign The North Star: The Emancipation of Frederick Douglass. It's a graphic adaptation of the memoir, Life and Times of Frederick Douglass, and it's the first of three planned volumes on Douglass's life.

The North Star is a dramatic retelling of three pivotal moments in Frederick Douglass's story, bringing to life the legendary figure's efforts as an abolitionist, a businessman, a politician, and a man of faith. There are a variety of reward levels, some of which underscore this project's goal as an educational tool.

Support these noble intentions by backing this Kickstarter campaign. And learn more about the work of Barron Bell and Koi Turnbull.

Sample Art

]]> 1064 no Episode 270: A Publisher Spotlight on kuš! http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-270-a-publisher-spotlight-on-ku Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Thanks to Holly English! 00:05:07 - The 2017 releases from kuš! 01:36:29 - Wrap up 01:38:00 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek focus a critical spotlight on the Latvian publisher kuš! This is a press that the vast majority of listeners are probably unaware of -- indeed, neither of the Two Guys knew about kuš! until about three years ago -- and that's a shame. They produce incredible comics from artists that span the globe. And as Gene points out, there's really no such thing as a "kuš! style." The sheer variety of visual approaches that can be found in kuš! publications is truly astounding. Since kuš! publishes so many comics, Derek and Gene have decided to limit their discussion to just those titles the press released in 2017. But even that is a challenging volume of output. Last year kuš! put out four of their š! anthologies, four kuš! mono volumes, and sixteen issues in the mini kuš! series. As the guys point out multiple times during this episode, there's no way to thoroughly discuss every single title that came out in 2017, but they do their best to cover as much ground as possible, and in hopes of giving listeners incentive to check out the wonderful releases from this publisher. Here is a complete list of kuš! releases from 2017, including the month of publication: mini kuš! #47 "Sutrama" by Daniel Lima, January mini kuš! #48 "Nul" by Olive Booger, January mini kuš! #49 "Call of Cthulhu" by Martin Lacko/ H. P. Lovecraft, January mini kuš! #50 "Spectacular Vermacular" by Mathilde Van Gheluwe, January š! #27 "BFF," February Brume by Amanda Baeza, kuš! mono #2, February mini kuš! #51 "Mirror Stage" by Jaakko Pallasvuo, April mini kuš! #52 "Acquisition" by Cátia Serrão, April mini kuš! #53 "Yellow" by Līva Kandevica, April mini kuš! #54 "Bad Ball" by Samplerman, April An Exorcism by Theo Ellsworth, kuš! mono #3, April š! #28 "Scandal!," April š! #29 "Celebration," July mini kuš! #55 "Valley" by GG, August mini kuš! #56 "A Friend" by Andrés Magán, August mini kuš! #57 "Eviction" by Evangelos Androutsopoulos, August mini kuš! #58 "Night Door" by Patrick Kyle, August mini kuš! #59 "Share The Love" by Paula Bulling / Nina Hoffmann, October mini kuš! #60 "His Last Comic" by Noah Van Sciver, October mini kuš! #61 "Jonah 2017" by Tomasz Niewiadomski, October mini kuš! #62 "Daughter" by Aidan Koch, October š! #30 "Brooklyn," November Fenix by Zane Zlemeša, kuš! mono #4, November Fearless Colors by Samplerman, kuš! mono #5, November Be sure to visit the kuš! website and check out their many releases. Better yet, subscribe!     Wed, 28 Feb 2018 13:36:56 -0000 A Publisher Spotlight on kuš! full 270 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal kuštraveganza or kušapalooza? Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Thanks to Holly English! 00:05:07 - The 2017 releases from kuš! 01:36:29 - Wrap up 01:38:00 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek focus a critical spotlight on the Latvian publisher kuš! This is a press that the vast majority of listeners are probably unaware of -- indeed, neither of the Two Guys knew about kuš! until about three years ago -- and that's a shame. They produce incredible comics from artists that span the globe. And as Gene points out, there's really no such thing as a "kuš! style." The sheer variety of visual approaches that can be found in kuš! publications is truly astounding. Since kuš! publishes so many comics, Derek and Gene have decided to limit their discussion to just those titles the press released in 2017. But even that is a challenging volume of output. Last year kuš! put out four of their š! anthologies, four kuš! mono volumes, and sixteen issues in the mini kuš! series. As the guys point out multiple times during this episode, there's no way to thoroughly discuss every single title that came out in 2017, but they do their best to cover as much ground as possible, and in hopes of giving listeners incentive to check out the wonderful releases from this publisher. Here is a complete list of kuš! releases from 2017, including the month of publication: mini kuš! #47 "Sutrama" by Daniel Lima, January mini kuš! #48 "Nul" by Olive Booger, January mini kuš! #49 "Call of Cthulhu" by Martin Lacko/ H. P. Lovecraft, January mini kuš! #50 "Spectacular Vermacular" by Mathilde Van Gheluwe, January š! #27 "BFF," February Brume by Amanda Baeza, kuš! mono #2, February mini kuš! #51 "Mirror Stage" by Jaakko Pallasvuo, April mini kuš! #52 "Acquisition" by Cátia Serrão, April mini kuš! #53 "Yellow" by Līva Kandevica, April mini kuš! #54 "Bad Ball" by Samplerman, April An Exorcism by Theo Ellsworth, kuš! mono #3, April š! #28 "Scandal!," April š! #29 "Celebration," July mini kuš! #55 "Valley" by GG, August mini kuš! #56 "A Friend" by Andrés Magán, August mini kuš! #57 "Eviction" by Evangelos Androutsopoulos, August mini kuš! #58 "Night Door" by Patrick Kyle, August mini kuš! #59 "Share The Love" by Paula Bulling / Nina Hoffmann, October mini kuš! #60 "His Last Comic" by Noah Van Sciver, October mini kuš! #61 "Jonah 2017" by Tomasz Niewiadomski, October mini kuš! #62 "Daughter" by Aidan Koch, October š! #30 "Brooklyn," November Fenix by Zane Zlemeša, kuš! mono #4, November Fearless Colors by Samplerman, kuš! mono #5, November Be sure to visit the kuš! website and check out their many releases. Better yet, subscribe!     Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:47 - Thanks to Holly English!
  • 00:05:07 - The 2017 releases from kuš!
  • 01:36:29 - Wrap up
  • 01:38:00 - Contact us

This week Gene and Derek focus a critical spotlight on the Latvian publisher kuš! This is a press that the vast majority of listeners are probably unaware of -- indeed, neither of the Two Guys knew about kuš! until about three years ago -- and that's a shame. They produce incredible comics from artists that span the globe. And as Gene points out, there's really no such thing as a "kuš! style." The sheer variety of visual approaches that can be found in kuš! publications is truly astounding.

Since kuš! publishes so many comics, Derek and Gene have decided to limit their discussion to just those titles the press released in 2017. But even that is a challenging volume of output. Last year kuš! put out four of their š! anthologies, four kuš! mono volumes, and sixteen issues in the mini kuš! series. As the guys point out multiple times during this episode, there's no way to thoroughly discuss every single title that came out in 2017, but they do their best to cover as much ground as possible, and in hopes of giving listeners incentive to check out the wonderful releases from this publisher.

Here is a complete list of kuš! releases from 2017, including the month of publication:

  • mini kuš! #47 "Sutrama" by Daniel Lima, January
  • mini kuš! #48 "Nul" by Olive Booger, January
  • mini kuš! #49 "Call of Cthulhu" by Martin Lacko/ H. P. Lovecraft, January
  • mini kuš! #50 "Spectacular Vermacular" by Mathilde Van Gheluwe, January
  • š! #27 "BFF," February
  • Brume by Amanda Baeza, kuš! mono #2, February
  • mini kuš! #51 "Mirror Stage" by Jaakko Pallasvuo, April
  • mini kuš! #52 "Acquisition" by Cátia Serrão, April
  • mini kuš! #53 "Yellow" by Līva Kandevica, April
  • mini kuš! #54 "Bad Ball" by Samplerman, April
  • An Exorcism by Theo Ellsworth, kuš! mono #3, April
  • š! #28 "Scandal!," April
  • š! #29 "Celebration," July
  • mini kuš! #55 "Valley" by GG, August
  • mini kuš! #56 "A Friend" by Andrés Magán, August
  • mini kuš! #57 "Eviction" by Evangelos Androutsopoulos, August
  • mini kuš! #58 "Night Door" by Patrick Kyle, August
  • mini kuš! #59 "Share The Love" by Paula Bulling / Nina Hoffmann, October
  • mini kuš! #60 "His Last Comic" by Noah Van Sciver, October
  • mini kuš! #61 "Jonah 2017" by Tomasz Niewiadomski, October
  • mini kuš! #62 "Daughter" by Aidan Koch, October
  • š! #30 "Brooklyn," November
  • Fenix by Zane Zlemeša, kuš! mono #4, November
  • Fearless Colors by Samplerman, kuš! mono #5, November

Be sure to visit the kuš! website and check out their many releases. Better yet, subscribe!

 

 

]]> 6101 yes Manga: Reviews of Red Colored Elegy and The Promised Neverland, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-red-colored-elegy-and-the-promised-neverland-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:43 - Listener mail! 00:07:10 - Red Colored Elegy 00:42:32 - The Promised Neverland, Vol. 1 01:14:32 - Wrap up 01:15:27 - Contact us Shea and Derek are back with their February manga episode. This month they look at two titles that, in many ways, are diametrically opposite in terms of style and audience. They begin with Seiichi Hayashi's Red Colored Elegy, the softcover edition of which has just been released from Drawn and Quarterly. This is the story of two young artists cohabiting and the struggles they endure with their families, they work, and their relationship with one another. But there's much more going on in this narrative, as the guys abundantly point out. This is an experimental work that was originally serialized in Garo during the early 1970s, and Hayashi's variations in visual style, along with his employment of nonconventional storytelling techniques, are what make this such an intriguing and significant work. After that, Shea and Derek discuss the first volume of Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu's The Promised Neverland (VIZ Media). It's a fantastical, and even futuristic, series about a community of orphans who learn that their comfortable life is undergirded by demonic forces. Both of the guys appreciate Demizu's art, and they're intrigued by the series' premise. At the same time, they wonder about some of the choices the creators made toward the end of this first volume, especially regarding narrative focalization. But they're both interested in seeing how things develop and if, indeed, Shirai's storytelling choices turn out to be effective as the plot unfolds. VIZ Media released the second volume of the series earlier this month, but the guys weren't able to get copies of that text in time for this recording (despite reaching out several times to the publisher's publicity department). Tue, 27 Feb 2018 13:25:13 -0000 Reviews of Red Colored Elegy and The Promised Neverland, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Demonic Relationships Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:43 - Listener mail! 00:07:10 - Red Colored Elegy 00:42:32 - The Promised Neverland, Vol. 1 01:14:32 - Wrap up 01:15:27 - Contact us Shea and Derek are back with their February manga episode. This month they look at two titles that, in many ways, are diametrically opposite in terms of style and audience. They begin with Seiichi Hayashi's Red Colored Elegy, the softcover edition of which has just been released from Drawn and Quarterly. This is the story of two young artists cohabiting and the struggles they endure with their families, they work, and their relationship with one another. But there's much more going on in this narrative, as the guys abundantly point out. This is an experimental work that was originally serialized in Garo during the early 1970s, and Hayashi's variations in visual style, along with his employment of nonconventional storytelling techniques, are what make this such an intriguing and significant work. After that, Shea and Derek discuss the first volume of Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu's The Promised Neverland (VIZ Media). It's a fantastical, and even futuristic, series about a community of orphans who learn that their comfortable life is undergirded by demonic forces. Both of the guys appreciate Demizu's art, and they're intrigued by the series' premise. At the same time, they wonder about some of the choices the creators made toward the end of this first volume, especially regarding narrative focalization. But they're both interested in seeing how things develop and if, indeed, Shirai's storytelling choices turn out to be effective as the plot unfolds. VIZ Media released the second volume of the series earlier this month, but the guys weren't able to get copies of that text in time for this recording (despite reaching out several times to the publisher's publicity department). Time Codes:

Shea and Derek are back with their February manga episode. This month they look at two titles that, in many ways, are diametrically opposite in terms of style and audience. They begin with Seiichi Hayashi's Red Colored Elegy, the softcover edition of which has just been released from Drawn and Quarterly. This is the story of two young artists cohabiting and the struggles they endure with their families, they work, and their relationship with one another. But there's much more going on in this narrative, as the guys abundantly point out. This is an experimental work that was originally serialized in Garo during the early 1970s, and Hayashi's variations in visual style, along with his employment of nonconventional storytelling techniques, are what make this such an intriguing and significant work.

After that, Shea and Derek discuss the first volume of Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu's The Promised Neverland (VIZ Media). It's a fantastical, and even futuristic, series about a community of orphans who learn that their comfortable life is undergirded by demonic forces. Both of the guys appreciate Demizu's art, and they're intrigued by the series' premise. At the same time, they wonder about some of the choices the creators made toward the end of this first volume, especially regarding narrative focalization. But they're both interested in seeing how things develop and if, indeed, Shirai's storytelling choices turn out to be effective as the plot unfolds. VIZ Media released the second volume of the series earlier this month, but the guys weren't able to get copies of that text in time for this recording (despite reaching out several times to the publisher's publicity department).

]]> 4941 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Gary Groth http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-gary-groth Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:03:43 - Interview with Gary Groth 01:07:09 - Wrap up 01:07:42 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek talks with Fantagraphics publisher Gary Groth about his new book Sparring with Gil Kane: Debating the History and Aesthetics of Comics. It's a collection of thirteen interviews, conversations, and panel transcripts focusing on Kane and his aesthetics. The pieces that Groth collects highlight the legendary artist's thoughts on the potential and limitations of the medium, his relationship with other creators, and Kane's place within the larger context of comics history. As Groth reveals, this book was long in the making, and it's the first of several Gil Kane-related works that Fantagraphics will publish in the coming years. Mon, 26 Feb 2018 14:41:05 -0000 An Interview with Gary Groth full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Thoughts of a Master Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of interview 00:03:43 - Interview with Gary Groth 01:07:09 - Wrap up 01:07:42 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek talks with Fantagraphics publisher Gary Groth about his new book Sparring with Gil Kane: Debating the History and Aesthetics of Comics. It's a collection of thirteen interviews, conversations, and panel transcripts focusing on Kane and his aesthetics. The pieces that Groth collects highlight the legendary artist's thoughts on the potential and limitations of the medium, his relationship with other creators, and Kane's place within the larger context of comics history. As Groth reveals, this book was long in the making, and it's the first of several Gil Kane-related works that Fantagraphics will publish in the coming years. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:22 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:43 - Interview with Gary Groth
  • 01:07:09 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:42 - Contact us

On this interview episode Derek talks with Fantagraphics publisher Gary Groth about his new book Sparring with Gil Kane: Debating the History and Aesthetics of Comics. It's a collection of thirteen interviews, conversations, and panel transcripts focusing on Kane and his aesthetics. The pieces that Groth collects highlight the legendary artist's thoughts on the potential and limitations of the medium, his relationship with other creators, and Kane's place within the larger context of comics history. As Groth reveals, this book was long in the making, and it's the first of several Gil Kane-related works that Fantagraphics will publish in the coming years.

]]> 4242 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Corpus: A Comic Anthology of Bodily Ailments http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-corpus-a-comic-anthology-of-bodily-ailments This week talks with Nadia Shammas about her Kickstarter project Corpus: A Comic Anthology of Bodily Ailments. It's a collection of comics by various creators all focused on health issues, including physical ailments, mental illness, struggles with disease, and healthcare experiences. The anthology is in full color and will include over 200 pages of content by a wide variety of artists including Christopher Sebela (Heartthrob) / Haley Boros (They Have Issues) Ryan Cady (Magdalena) / Phillip Sevy (Tomb Raider)  Ram V (Paradiso) / Caspar Wjingaard (Angelic)  Alex Paknadel (Arcadia & Turncoat) Vita Ayala (The Wilds) / David Stoll Ryan King (Nico's Fortune) / Alabaster Pizzo (Ralphie and Jeanie)   Kendall Atkins / Page Firby Matthew Erman (Long Lost) / Renee Kliewer  Elaine Will (Look Straight Ahead) Tini Howard (Assassinistas) / Caroline Stuart Alejandro Aragon (Cult Classic: Sludge)  Christof Bogacs (Citizen) / Kaska Gazdowna Ann Uland Ben Khan (Heavenly Blues) / Lilly Taing John Robinson IV / Danos Philopoulos Akeem Roberts (Life after Grad)  Cathy Leamy (Geraniums and Bacon) / Judy Leamy Jim Gibbons (Mars: Space Barbarian) / Melody Often (Trinadot)   Erica Schultz (M3) / Kevin Maher (27, A Rock Anthology) Cody Sousa (Croak) / Ben D’Amico Brian Level (Lazarus) Cameron DeOrdio (Josie and the Pussycats) / Eli Neugeboren Mady G (Invader Zim) Shing Yin Khor (The American Dream) Querelle P / Dante Luiz Ian Mondrick (Curio) / Elodie Chen (Wayward Sisters) Kevin Schaefer / Andrew Herman / Mike Rosenzweig DCS  Hal Matthews / Olivia Mercurio (The Answering Rock)  Holly Aitchison / Morgan Perry Fred Kennedy (Crude) / Soo Lee (Mine: A Planned Parenthood Anthology) Ryan Estrada (Banned Book Club) Eliot Rahal (Cult Classic) / Sean Andrew Lynch Stephanie Cannon (Bandera) / Emily Pearson (The Wilds) Mark Bouchard (H.o.M.C.) / Stelladia VS Pat Shand (Destiny, NY) / Ryan Best Mister Loki (Until the Last Dog Dies) Vicky Leta Rebecca Farrow (Ladycastle) To say the least, there's a lot packed into this anthology! Be sure to back this Kickstarter campaign. It will be great for your health! Sample Art     Sat, 24 Feb 2018 12:15:00 -0000 Kickstarting Corpus: A Comic Anthology of Bodily Ailments full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Body of Work This week talks with Nadia Shammas about her Kickstarter project Corpus: A Comic Anthology of Bodily Ailments. It's a collection of comics by various creators all focused on health issues, including physical ailments, mental illness, struggles with disease, and healthcare experiences. The anthology is in full color and will include over 200 pages of content by a wide variety of artists including Christopher Sebela (Heartthrob) / Haley Boros (They Have Issues) Ryan Cady (Magdalena) / Phillip Sevy (Tomb Raider)  Ram V (Paradiso) / Caspar Wjingaard (Angelic)  Alex Paknadel (Arcadia & Turncoat) Vita Ayala (The Wilds) / David Stoll Ryan King (Nico's Fortune) / Alabaster Pizzo (Ralphie and Jeanie)   Kendall Atkins / Page Firby Matthew Erman (Long Lost) / Renee Kliewer  Elaine Will (Look Straight Ahead) Tini Howard (Assassinistas) / Caroline Stuart Alejandro Aragon (Cult Classic: Sludge)  Christof Bogacs (Citizen) / Kaska Gazdowna Ann Uland Ben Khan (Heavenly Blues) / Lilly Taing John Robinson IV / Danos Philopoulos Akeem Roberts (Life after Grad)  Cathy Leamy (Geraniums and Bacon) / Judy Leamy Jim Gibbons (Mars: Space Barbarian) / Melody Often (Trinadot)   Erica Schultz (M3) / Kevin Maher (27, A Rock Anthology) Cody Sousa (Croak) / Ben D’Amico Brian Level (Lazarus) Cameron DeOrdio (Josie and the Pussycats) / Eli Neugeboren Mady G (Invader Zim) Shing Yin Khor (The American Dream) Querelle P / Dante Luiz Ian Mondrick (Curio) / Elodie Chen (Wayward Sisters) Kevin Schaefer / Andrew Herman / Mike Rosenzweig DCS  Hal Matthews / Olivia Mercurio (The Answering Rock)  Holly Aitchison / Morgan Perry Fred Kennedy (Crude) / Soo Lee (Mine: A Planned Parenthood Anthology) Ryan Estrada (Banned Book Club) Eliot Rahal (Cult Classic) / Sean Andrew Lynch Stephanie Cannon (Bandera) / Emily Pearson (The Wilds) Mark Bouchard (H.o.M.C.) / Stelladia VS Pat Shand (Destiny, NY) / Ryan Best Mister Loki (Until the Last Dog Dies) Vicky Leta Rebecca Farrow (Ladycastle) To say the least, there's a lot packed into this anthology! Be sure to back this Kickstarter campaign. It will be great for your health! Sample Art    

This week talks with Nadia Shammas about her Kickstarter project Corpus: A Comic Anthology of Bodily Ailments. It's a collection of comics by various creators all focused on health issues, including physical ailments, mental illness, struggles with disease, and healthcare experiences.

The anthology is in full color and will include over 200 pages of content by a wide variety of artists including

To say the least, there's a lot packed into this anthology! Be sure to back this Kickstarter campaign. It will be great for your health!

Sample Art

 

 

]]> 1164 no On Location: The February Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-february-visit-to-heroes-arent-hard-to-find Derek is back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for the February on-location episode. As he usually does, he set up his mics on a Wednesday evening while customers were coming into the shop to pick up the weekly releases. And during this time a couple of Wednesday Warriors sat down with Derek to talk about what they were reading, what they were looking forward to in the coming months, and what about comics culture they currently find exciting. Both Zyg and Fadi shared the week's titles that they had come to pick up, but the conversation went well beyond that. Among the various topics they discussed were current happenings in the Marvel Universe, favorite artists, eagerly awaited upcoming releases, the new Black Panther movie, Riverdale and other non-superhero comics adaptations, and (believe it or not) Hughes and Whitney's Herbie. Yep, they talked about the Fat Fury.   Fri, 23 Feb 2018 12:15:35 -0000 The February Visit to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shop Talk Derek is back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for the February on-location episode. As he usually does, he set up his mics on a Wednesday evening while customers were coming into the shop to pick up the weekly releases. And during this time a couple of Wednesday Warriors sat down with Derek to talk about what they were reading, what they were looking forward to in the coming months, and what about comics culture they currently find exciting. Both Zyg and Fadi shared the week's titles that they had come to pick up, but the conversation went well beyond that. Among the various topics they discussed were current happenings in the Marvel Universe, favorite artists, eagerly awaited upcoming releases, the new Black Panther movie, Riverdale and other non-superhero comics adaptations, and (believe it or not) Hughes and Whitney's Herbie. Yep, they talked about the Fat Fury.  

Derek is back at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find for the February on-location episode. As he usually does, he set up his mics on a Wednesday evening while customers were coming into the shop to pick up the weekly releases. And during this time a couple of Wednesday Warriors sat down with Derek to talk about what they were reading, what they were looking forward to in the coming months, and what about comics culture they currently find exciting. Both Zyg and Fadi shared the week's titles that they had come to pick up, but the conversation went well beyond that. Among the various topics they discussed were current happenings in the Marvel Universe, favorite artists, eagerly awaited upcoming releases, the new Black Panther movie, Riverdale and other non-superhero comics adaptations, and (believe it or not) Hughes and Whitney's Herbie. Yep, they talked about the Fat Fury.

 

]]> 3882 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Alone and Park Bench http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-alone-and-park-bench Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:41 - Catching up 00:04:47 - Alone 00:44:03 - Park Bench 01:12:16 - Wrap up 01:13:10 - Contact us For the February Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek discuss two works from Christophe Chabouté, Alone and Park Bench, both published by Gallery 13, an imprint of Simon and Schuster. The first is a largely quiet meditation on solicitude, exile, and imagination. Because of physical deformities, the protagonist lives isolated in a lighthouse, with only a couple of fishermen to bring him supplies and serve as his link to the outside world. By contrast, Park Bench is a completely silent narrative that is all about community. The titular object functions as a simple focal point that brings together, inadvertently, a variety of diverse individuals, demonstrating an interconnectedness that is not readily apparent. While Derek appreciates Chabouté's uncomplicated style and thematic approach, Edward is more critical, preferring more visual difference and ambiguous messaging. Thu, 22 Feb 2018 16:59:09 -0000 Reviews of Christophe Chabouté's Alone and Park Bench full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Weirded Out by the Eyes Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:41 - Catching up 00:04:47 - Alone 00:44:03 - Park Bench 01:12:16 - Wrap up 01:13:10 - Contact us For the February Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek discuss two works from Christophe Chabouté, Alone and Park Bench, both published by Gallery 13, an imprint of Simon and Schuster. The first is a largely quiet meditation on solicitude, exile, and imagination. Because of physical deformities, the protagonist lives isolated in a lighthouse, with only a couple of fishermen to bring him supplies and serve as his link to the outside world. By contrast, Park Bench is a completely silent narrative that is all about community. The titular object functions as a simple focal point that brings together, inadvertently, a variety of diverse individuals, demonstrating an interconnectedness that is not readily apparent. While Derek appreciates Chabouté's uncomplicated style and thematic approach, Edward is more critical, preferring more visual difference and ambiguous messaging. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:41 - Catching up
  • 00:04:47 - Alone
  • 00:44:03 - Park Bench
  • 01:12:16 - Wrap up
  • 01:13:10 - Contact us

For the February Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek discuss two works from Christophe Chabouté, Alone and Park Bench, both published by Gallery 13, an imprint of Simon and Schuster. The first is a largely quiet meditation on solicitude, exile, and imagination. Because of physical deformities, the protagonist lives isolated in a lighthouse, with only a couple of fishermen to bring him supplies and serve as his link to the outside world. By contrast, Park Bench is a completely silent narrative that is all about community. The titular object functions as a simple focal point that brings together, inadvertently, a variety of diverse individuals, demonstrating an interconnectedness that is not readily apparent. While Derek appreciates Chabouté's uncomplicated style and thematic approach, Edward is more critical, preferring more visual difference and ambiguous messaging.

]]> 4582 no Episode 269: Reviews of The Lie and How We Told It, Abbott #1, and Punks Not Dead #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-269-reviews-of-the-lie-and-how-we-told-it-abbott-1-and-punks-not-dead-1 Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:53 - Black Panther info 00:06:51 - Our new Discord account 00:09:15 - More listener mail! 00:16:37 - The Lie and How We Told It 00:48:02 - Abbott #1 01:08:28 - Punks Not Dead #1 01:21:32 - Wrap up 01:22:37 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three fascinating titles...and with a '70s twist! They begin with Tommi Parrish's The Lie and How We Told It (Fantagraphics). Both had encountered Parrish's work previously in the first two issues of the Now anthology, but this is the first long-form narrative from them that the guys have read. This is an intriguing work that begs for multiple readings and provides much discussion fodder. After that, Gene and Derek turn to two recent #1 issues. Saladin Ahmed and Sami Kivelä's Abbott (BOOM! Studios) is a crime noir story set in the early 1970s, and with a curious injection of horror. Punks Not Dead, the latest from IDW's Black Crown imprint, is a wild tale from David Barnett and Martin Simmonds, one that mixes punk sensibilities with what appears to be X-Files-like undercurrent. Wed, 21 Feb 2018 14:03:28 -0000 Reviews of The Lie and How We Told It, Abbott #1, and Punks Not Dead #1 full 269 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal That ’70s Podcast Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:53 - Black Panther info 00:06:51 - Our new Discord account 00:09:15 - More listener mail! 00:16:37 - The Lie and How We Told It 00:48:02 - Abbott #1 01:08:28 - Punks Not Dead #1 01:21:32 - Wrap up 01:22:37 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three fascinating titles...and with a '70s twist! They begin with Tommi Parrish's The Lie and How We Told It (Fantagraphics). Both had encountered Parrish's work previously in the first two issues of the Now anthology, but this is the first long-form narrative from them that the guys have read. This is an intriguing work that begs for multiple readings and provides much discussion fodder. After that, Gene and Derek turn to two recent #1 issues. Saladin Ahmed and Sami Kivelä's Abbott (BOOM! Studios) is a crime noir story set in the early 1970s, and with a curious injection of horror. Punks Not Dead, the latest from IDW's Black Crown imprint, is a wild tale from David Barnett and Martin Simmonds, one that mixes punk sensibilities with what appears to be X-Files-like undercurrent. Time Codes:

This week Gene and Derek discuss three fascinating titles...and with a '70s twist! They begin with Tommi Parrish's The Lie and How We Told It (Fantagraphics). Both had encountered Parrish's work previously in the first two issues of the Now anthology, but this is the first long-form narrative from them that the guys have read. This is an intriguing work that begs for multiple readings and provides much discussion fodder. After that, Gene and Derek turn to two recent #1 issues. Saladin Ahmed and Sami Kivelä's Abbott (BOOM! Studios) is a crime noir story set in the early 1970s, and with a curious injection of horror. Punks Not Dead, the latest from IDW's Black Crown imprint, is a wild tale from David Barnett and Martin Simmonds, one that mixes punk sensibilities with what appears to be X-Files-like undercurrent.

]]> 5210 no Young Readers: Reviews of The Prince and the Dressmaker and Speak: The Graphic Novel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-the-prince-and-the-dressmaker-and-speak-the-graphic-novel Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:56 - Setup of the discussion 00:05:44 - The Prince and the Dressmaker 00:30:55 - Speak: The Graphic Novel 01:00:39 - Wrap up 01:03:07 - Contact us Art and Perceptions Gwen and Paul are back with another Young Readers episode. For February, they discuss two recent publications, both that explore how perceptions, for better or for worse, figure into our lives. They begin with Jen Wang's The Prince and the Dressmaker (First Second), a fairy tale-like narrative focusing on romance, identity, and creativity. Next, they look at Speak: The Graphic Novel (Farrar, Straus, and Giroux), a comics adaptation of Laurie Halse Anderson's young adult novel Speak. Illustrated by Emily Carroll, it's a story of a young high school outcast who uses art to confront the hardships that have kept her on the margins. Tue, 20 Feb 2018 13:04:54 -0000 Reviews of The Prince and the Dressmaker and Speak: The Graphic Novel full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Art and Perceptions Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:56 - Setup of the discussion 00:05:44 - The Prince and the Dressmaker 00:30:55 - Speak: The Graphic Novel 01:00:39 - Wrap up 01:03:07 - Contact us Art and Perceptions Gwen and Paul are back with another Young Readers episode. For February, they discuss two recent publications, both that explore how perceptions, for better or for worse, figure into our lives. They begin with Jen Wang's The Prince and the Dressmaker (First Second), a fairy tale-like narrative focusing on romance, identity, and creativity. Next, they look at Speak: The Graphic Novel (Farrar, Straus, and Giroux), a comics adaptation of Laurie Halse Anderson's young adult novel Speak. Illustrated by Emily Carroll, it's a story of a young high school outcast who uses art to confront the hardships that have kept her on the margins. Time Codes:

Art and Perceptions

Gwen and Paul are back with another Young Readers episode. For February, they discuss two recent publications, both that explore how perceptions, for better or for worse, figure into our lives. They begin with Jen Wang's The Prince and the Dressmaker (First Second), a fairy tale-like narrative focusing on romance, identity, and creativity. Next, they look at Speak: The Graphic Novel (Farrar, Straus, and Giroux), a comics adaptation of Laurie Halse Anderson's young adult novel Speak. Illustrated by Emily Carroll, it's a story of a young high school outcast who uses art to confront the hardships that have kept her on the margins.

]]> 3983 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Plaguers Int'l http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-plaguers-intl On this weekend's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Max Huffman about his current campaign for Plaguers Int'l. As described on the Kickstarter page, Plaguers Int'l is a loud, fast comic-shaped comic, with elements of all three genres: madcap romp, slapdash genre pastiche and relationship disaster. A panel or two might be unsafe for work. And its plot? Swirving Wildley is the newest member of the world's most beloved extranational paramilitary death squad. Movement Salon is the leader of a wasteland guerrilla junk cult. They have a long day. This promises to be a fun project, one that's right in The Comics Alternative's wheelhouse, an alternative look at established genres with a healthy dose of humor and visual panache. While you're at it, check out more of Max Huffman's work. This is definitely something work backing. Learn more about Max's Kickstarter!  Sample Art Sat, 17 Feb 2018 12:48:28 -0000 Kickstarting Plaguers Int'l full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Madcap Romp On this weekend's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Max Huffman about his current campaign for Plaguers Int'l. As described on the Kickstarter page, Plaguers Int'l is a loud, fast comic-shaped comic, with elements of all three genres: madcap romp, slapdash genre pastiche and relationship disaster. A panel or two might be unsafe for work. And its plot? Swirving Wildley is the newest member of the world's most beloved extranational paramilitary death squad. Movement Salon is the leader of a wasteland guerrilla junk cult. They have a long day. This promises to be a fun project, one that's right in The Comics Alternative's wheelhouse, an alternative look at established genres with a healthy dose of humor and visual panache. While you're at it, check out more of Max Huffman's work. This is definitely something work backing. Learn more about Max's Kickstarter!  Sample Art

On this weekend's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Max Huffman about his current campaign for Plaguers Int'l. As described on the Kickstarter page, Plaguers Int'l is

a loud, fast comic-shaped comic, with elements of all three genres: madcap romp, slapdash genre pastiche and relationship disaster. A panel or two might be unsafe for work.

And its plot?

Swirving Wildley is the newest member of the world's most beloved extranational paramilitary death squad. Movement Salon is the leader of a wasteland guerrilla junk cult. They have a long day.

This promises to be a fun project, one that's right in The Comics Alternative's wheelhouse, an alternative look at established genres with a healthy dose of humor and visual panache. While you're at it, check out more of Max Huffman's work.

This is definitely something work backing. Learn more about Max's Kickstarter! 

Sample Art

]]> 1067 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Various IDW Translations from the Last Half of 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-various-idw-translations-from-the-last-half-of-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:48 - Derek goes solo! 00:07:35 - Alack Sinner: The Age of Innocence 00:23:33 - Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary, 1852-1903 00:35:23 - Jerome K. Jerome Bloch, Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer 00:41:10 - Corto Maltese: Fable of Venice 00:46:25 - A Story of Men 00:56:48 - The Man from the Great North 01:02:43 - Wrap up 01:04:34 - Contact us Welcome to the January episode of The Comics Alternative's monthly Euro Comics series. That's right, the January episode. As Derek explains during the opening of this show, he and Edward had planned on covering IDW Publishing works in translation that had been released in the last half of 2017, and doing so for their January episode. However, life got in the way again, and they had to delay the recording. Derek then sought out Dean Mullaney (editor of IDW's EuroComics series) and Justin Eisinger (senior editor at IDW) to assist him with this show, but neither were available. So Derek decided to do the episode solo, something that he's never done on the podcast before. And he hopes the results aren't unlistenable. And here you have it, the "January" episode of the Euro Comics series...albeit released in February. In it, you'll hear Derek discuss six different titles from IDW released since July 2017, including Carlos Sampayo and Jose Munoz's Alack Sinner: The Age of Innocence; Christian Perrissin and Matthieu Blanchin's Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary, 1852-1903; Alain Dodier, Pierre Makyo, and Serge Le Tendre's Jerome K. Jerome Bloche Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer; Hugo Pratt's Corto Maltese: Fable of Venice; Zep's A Story of Men; and Pratt's The Man from the Great North.   Fri, 16 Feb 2018 13:20:05 -0000 Reviews of Various IDW Translations from the Last Half of 2017 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Going Solo Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:48 - Derek goes solo! 00:07:35 - Alack Sinner: The Age of Innocence 00:23:33 - Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary, 1852-1903 00:35:23 - Jerome K. Jerome Bloch, Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer 00:41:10 - Corto Maltese: Fable of Venice 00:46:25 - A Story of Men 00:56:48 - The Man from the Great North 01:02:43 - Wrap up 01:04:34 - Contact us Welcome to the January episode of The Comics Alternative's monthly Euro Comics series. That's right, the January episode. As Derek explains during the opening of this show, he and Edward had planned on covering IDW Publishing works in translation that had been released in the last half of 2017, and doing so for their January episode. However, life got in the way again, and they had to delay the recording. Derek then sought out Dean Mullaney (editor of IDW's EuroComics series) and Justin Eisinger (senior editor at IDW) to assist him with this show, but neither were available. So Derek decided to do the episode solo, something that he's never done on the podcast before. And he hopes the results aren't unlistenable. And here you have it, the "January" episode of the Euro Comics series...albeit released in February. In it, you'll hear Derek discuss six different titles from IDW released since July 2017, including Carlos Sampayo and Jose Munoz's Alack Sinner: The Age of Innocence; Christian Perrissin and Matthieu Blanchin's Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary, 1852-1903; Alain Dodier, Pierre Makyo, and Serge Le Tendre's Jerome K. Jerome Bloche Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer; Hugo Pratt's Corto Maltese: Fable of Venice; Zep's A Story of Men; and Pratt's The Man from the Great North.   Time Codes:

Welcome to the January episode of The Comics Alternative's monthly Euro Comics series. That's right, the January episode. As Derek explains during the opening of this show, he and Edward had planned on covering IDW Publishing works in translation that had been released in the last half of 2017, and doing so for their January episode. However, life got in the way again, and they had to delay the recording. Derek then sought out Dean Mullaney (editor of IDW's EuroComics series) and Justin Eisinger (senior editor at IDW) to assist him with this show, but neither were available. So Derek decided to do the episode solo, something that he's never done on the podcast before. And he hopes the results aren't unlistenable.

And here you have it, the "January" episode of the Euro Comics series...albeit released in February. In it, you'll hear Derek discuss six different titles from IDW released since July 2017, including Carlos Sampayo and Jose Munoz's Alack Sinner: The Age of Innocence; Christian Perrissin and Matthieu Blanchin's Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary, 1852-1903; Alain Dodier, Pierre Makyo, and Serge Le Tendre's Jerome K. Jerome Bloche Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer; Hugo Pratt's Corto Maltese: Fable of Venice; Zep's A Story of Men; and Pratt's The Man from the Great North.

 

]]> 4053 no Episode 268: Reviews of Recent Romance Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-268-reviews-of-recent-romance-comics Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:003:11 - Listener mail! 00:07:41 - Twisted Romance #1 and #2 00:32:46 - Death of Love #1 00:50:03 - Bingo Love 00:00:00 - Weird Love, Vol. 6: So This Is Love! 00:00:00 - Young Monsters in Love 01:14:34 - Wrap up 01:15:39 - Contact us It's Valentine's Day, and this week the Two Guys with PhDs are doing something they've never done before: devote an entire episode to recent romance comics. And this year, there are quite a number of new comics devoted to love and relationships...and with curious twists. And speaking of twists, they begin their show by discussing the first two issues of the new Image Comics series, Twisted Romance. This is a four-issue anthology published weekly throughout the month of February, and in issues #1 and #2 we see comics contributions from the creators Alex de Campo, Katie Shelly, Sarah Horrocks, Alejandra Gutierrez, and Meredith McClaren, with short prose offerings from Magen Cubed and Vita Ayala. From there they go to Death of Love #1 (Image Comics), written by Justin Jordan with art by Donal Delay. Much like Twisted Romance, this is a skewed look at love -- and this one includes assholes and drugs. Following that, Gene and Derek discuss one more recent release from Image Comics, Tee Franklin and Jenn St-onge's Bingo Love. This is a unique LGBT narrative that focuses on the relationship of older citizens. While intended for teen readers, this is a graphic novel that can be appreciated by all ages. After that they visit, once again, the wacky world of Craig Yoe and his partner Clizia Gussoni. Weird Love, Vol. 6: So This Is Love! (IDW Publishing/Yoe Books) is the latest collection of their Weird Love series, classic romance stories from the 1950s and 1960s that not only appear warped to our contemporary eyes, but were probably strange to their original audiences. And finally, the guys wrap up their special Valentine's Day episode with an offering from DC Comics, Young Monsters in Love. Much like last October's DC House of Horror, this is an extra-long seasonal anthology issue written and drawn by a who's who of DC creators. Included are stories focusing on, among others, Swamp Thing, Man-Bat, Raven, Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E., Solomon Grundy, Deadman, the Creature Commandos, and (one of the guys' favorites) Monsieur Mallah and the Brain. Love is definitely in the air this week!   Wed, 14 Feb 2018 16:19:58 -0000 Reviews of Recent Romance Comics full 268 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Built for Love Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:003:11 - Listener mail! 00:07:41 - Twisted Romance #1 and #2 00:32:46 - Death of Love #1 00:50:03 - Bingo Love 00:00:00 - Weird Love, Vol. 6: So This Is Love! 00:00:00 - Young Monsters in Love 01:14:34 - Wrap up 01:15:39 - Contact us It's Valentine's Day, and this week the Two Guys with PhDs are doing something they've never done before: devote an entire episode to recent romance comics. And this year, there are quite a number of new comics devoted to love and relationships...and with curious twists. And speaking of twists, they begin their show by discussing the first two issues of the new Image Comics series, Twisted Romance. This is a four-issue anthology published weekly throughout the month of February, and in issues #1 and #2 we see comics contributions from the creators Alex de Campo, Katie Shelly, Sarah Horrocks, Alejandra Gutierrez, and Meredith McClaren, with short prose offerings from Magen Cubed and Vita Ayala. From there they go to Death of Love #1 (Image Comics), written by Justin Jordan with art by Donal Delay. Much like Twisted Romance, this is a skewed look at love -- and this one includes assholes and drugs. Following that, Gene and Derek discuss one more recent release from Image Comics, Tee Franklin and Jenn St-onge's Bingo Love. This is a unique LGBT narrative that focuses on the relationship of older citizens. While intended for teen readers, this is a graphic novel that can be appreciated by all ages. After that they visit, once again, the wacky world of Craig Yoe and his partner Clizia Gussoni. Weird Love, Vol. 6: So This Is Love! (IDW Publishing/Yoe Books) is the latest collection of their Weird Love series, classic romance stories from the 1950s and 1960s that not only appear warped to our contemporary eyes, but were probably strange to their original audiences. And finally, the guys wrap up their special Valentine's Day episode with an offering from DC Comics, Young Monsters in Love. Much like last October's DC House of Horror, this is an extra-long seasonal anthology issue written and drawn by a who's who of DC creators. Included are stories focusing on, among others, Swamp Thing, Man-Bat, Raven, Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E., Solomon Grundy, Deadman, the Creature Commandos, and (one of the guys' favorites) Monsieur Mallah and the Brain. Love is definitely in the air this week!   Time Codes:

It's Valentine's Day, and this week the Two Guys with PhDs are doing something they've never done before: devote an entire episode to recent romance comics. And this year, there are quite a number of new comics devoted to love and relationships...and with curious twists. And speaking of twists, they begin their show by discussing the first two issues of the new Image Comics series, Twisted Romance. This is a four-issue anthology published weekly throughout the month of February, and in issues #1 and #2 we see comics contributions from the creators Alex de Campo, Katie Shelly, Sarah Horrocks, Alejandra Gutierrez, and Meredith McClaren, with short prose offerings from Magen Cubed and Vita Ayala. From there they go to Death of Love #1 (Image Comics), written by Justin Jordan with art by Donal Delay. Much like Twisted Romance, this is a skewed look at love -- and this one includes assholes and drugs.

Following that, Gene and Derek discuss one more recent release from Image Comics, Tee Franklin and Jenn St-onge's Bingo Love. This is a unique LGBT narrative that focuses on the relationship of older citizens. While intended for teen readers, this is a graphic novel that can be appreciated by all ages. After that they visit, once again, the wacky world of Craig Yoe and his partner Clizia Gussoni. Weird Love, Vol. 6: So This Is Love! (IDW Publishing/Yoe Books) is the latest collection of their Weird Love series, classic romance stories from the 1950s and 1960s that not only appear warped to our contemporary eyes, but were probably strange to their original audiences. And finally, the guys wrap up their special Valentine's Day episode with an offering from DC Comics, Young Monsters in Love. Much like last October's DC House of Horror, this is an extra-long seasonal anthology issue written and drawn by a who's who of DC creators. Included are stories focusing on, among others, Swamp Thing, Man-Bat, Raven, Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E., Solomon Grundy, Deadman, the Creature Commandos, and (one of the guys' favorites) Monsieur Mallah and the Brain.

Love is definitely in the air this week!

 

]]> 6871 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-bill-kartalopoulos-and-ben-katchor Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Setup of interview 00:04:05 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor 01:36:02 - Wrap up 01:37:10 - Contact us Derek talks with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor about the 2017 volume of The Best American Comics (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). They are, respectively, the general editor of the series and last year's guest editor. Paul and Derek had wanted to interview the two back in December, but due to life complications, they weren't able to have them on the show. And although Paul wasn't able to join in on this interview, he was with everyone in spirit. So better late than never, Derek speaks with Ben and Bill about the process of their collaboration, the challenges that they faced in collecting potential material, Ben's choices in structuring and populating the 2017 volume, the ways in which current politics couldn't help but find their way into the text, and the questions both editors faced with the very concept of "best comics."   Tue, 13 Feb 2018 14:09:47 -0000 An Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Challenging Comics Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Setup of interview 00:04:05 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor 01:36:02 - Wrap up 01:37:10 - Contact us Derek talks with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor about the 2017 volume of The Best American Comics (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). They are, respectively, the general editor of the series and last year's guest editor. Paul and Derek had wanted to interview the two back in December, but due to life complications, they weren't able to have them on the show. And although Paul wasn't able to join in on this interview, he was with everyone in spirit. So better late than never, Derek speaks with Ben and Bill about the process of their collaboration, the challenges that they faced in collecting potential material, Ben's choices in structuring and populating the 2017 volume, the ways in which current politics couldn't help but find their way into the text, and the questions both editors faced with the very concept of "best comics."   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:30 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:05 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor
  • 01:36:02 - Wrap up
  • 01:37:10 - Contact us

Derek talks with Bill Kartalopoulos and Ben Katchor about the 2017 volume of The Best American Comics (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). They are, respectively, the general editor of the series and last year's guest editor. Paul and Derek had wanted to interview the two back in December, but due to life complications, they weren't able to have them on the show. And although Paul wasn't able to join in on this interview, he was with everyone in spirit. So better late than never, Derek speaks with Ben and Bill about the process of their collaboration, the challenges that they faced in collecting potential material, Ben's choices in structuring and populating the 2017 volume, the ways in which current politics couldn't help but find their way into the text, and the questions both editors faced with the very concept of "best comics."

 

]]> 6000 no Webcomics: Reviews of The Flying Ship, Next Town Over, and Yu+Me: Dreams http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-flying-ship-next-town-over-and-yume-dreams Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:29 - Weather talk 00:05:40 - The Flying Ship 00:33:55 - Next Town Over 01:05:43 - Yu+Me: Dream 01:35:46 - Wrap up 01:37:12 - Contact us For February, Sean and Derek discuss three very different webcomics, each published by a single young female creator. They begin with two currently ongoing titles, Jess Milton's The Flying Ship and Erin Mehlos's Next Town Over. The first is webcomic inspired by a Russian fairytale, and despite its relatively short run so far, Milton does a great job at establishing a detailed premise. Mehlos's Next Town Over is a curious mix of magic, steampunk, and the western genre (although not set in the American West). The Two Guys then wrap up with the already-completed webcomic, Yu+Me: Dream. This long-form narrative ran from 2004 to 2010, and there are several fascinating stylistic turns that the guys cannot discuss in detail for fear of soiling the webcomic for first-time readers. Mon, 12 Feb 2018 15:20:17 -0000 Webcomics: Reviews of The Flying Ship, Next Town Over, and Yu+Me: Dreams full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fairytales, Steampunk, and Dreams Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:29 - Weather talk 00:05:40 - The Flying Ship 00:33:55 - Next Town Over 01:05:43 - Yu+Me: Dream 01:35:46 - Wrap up 01:37:12 - Contact us For February, Sean and Derek discuss three very different webcomics, each published by a single young female creator. They begin with two currently ongoing titles, Jess Milton's The Flying Ship and Erin Mehlos's Next Town Over. The first is webcomic inspired by a Russian fairytale, and despite its relatively short run so far, Milton does a great job at establishing a detailed premise. Mehlos's Next Town Over is a curious mix of magic, steampunk, and the western genre (although not set in the American West). The Two Guys then wrap up with the already-completed webcomic, Yu+Me: Dream. This long-form narrative ran from 2004 to 2010, and there are several fascinating stylistic turns that the guys cannot discuss in detail for fear of soiling the webcomic for first-time readers. Time Codes:

For February, Sean and Derek discuss three very different webcomics, each published by a single young female creator. They begin with two currently ongoing titles, Jess Milton's The Flying Ship and Erin Mehlos's Next Town Over. The first is webcomic inspired by a Russian fairytale, and despite its relatively short run so far, Milton does a great job at establishing a detailed premise. Mehlos's Next Town Over is a curious mix of magic, steampunk, and the western genre (although not set in the American West). The Two Guys then wrap up with the already-completed webcomic, Yu+Me: Dream. This long-form narrative ran from 2004 to 2010, and there are several fascinating stylistic turns that the guys cannot discuss in detail for fear of soiling the webcomic for first-time readers.

]]> 6029 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Ada's Adventures in Science http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-adas-adventures-in-science   This week Derek talks with Edward Gomez and Laura Sorvala about their Kickstarter campaign Ada's Adventures in Science. This project began as a three-comic-book series, starting with the idea, “There’s no such thing as a stupid question.” The ultimate goal of this Kickstarter is not only to excite children about science, but to empower them to pursue it. Edward and Laura's protagonist Ada is a believable, relatable character pursuing her interests in science. She functions as both as a role model and as a conduit for the reader. What is so significant about this Kickstarter campaign is that not only will you be able to get the collected three-issue Ada's Adventures in Science series in one nice volume, but by backing this project you'll be providing students around the world with copies of the comic books and encouraging them to pursue their own passions in science. So help promote this educational tool, and read a great adventure, by backing this Kickstarter! Sample Art Sat, 10 Feb 2018 12:22:04 -0000 Kickstarting Ada's Adventures in Science full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal It's Poetry in Motion   This week Derek talks with Edward Gomez and Laura Sorvala about their Kickstarter campaign Ada's Adventures in Science. This project began as a three-comic-book series, starting with the idea, “There’s no such thing as a stupid question.” The ultimate goal of this Kickstarter is not only to excite children about science, but to empower them to pursue it. Edward and Laura's protagonist Ada is a believable, relatable character pursuing her interests in science. She functions as both as a role model and as a conduit for the reader. What is so significant about this Kickstarter campaign is that not only will you be able to get the collected three-issue Ada's Adventures in Science series in one nice volume, but by backing this project you'll be providing students around the world with copies of the comic books and encouraging them to pursue their own passions in science. So help promote this educational tool, and read a great adventure, by backing this Kickstarter! Sample Art  

This week Derek talks with Edward Gomez and Laura Sorvala about their Kickstarter campaign Ada's Adventures in Science. This project began as a three-comic-book series, starting with the idea, “There’s no such thing as a stupid question.” The ultimate goal of this Kickstarter is not only to excite children about science, but to empower them to pursue it. Edward and Laura's protagonist Ada is a believable, relatable character pursuing her interests in science. She functions as both as a role model and as a conduit for the reader.

What is so significant about this Kickstarter campaign is that not only will you be able to get the collected three-issue Ada's Adventures in Science series in one nice volume, but by backing this project you'll be providing students around the world with copies of the comic books and encouraging them to pursue their own passions in science.

So help promote this educational tool, and read a great adventure, by backing this Kickstarter!

Sample Art

]]> 1095 no Episode 267: The February Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-267-the-february-previews-catalog Gwen and Derek are back with another Previews episode. And since February is Super Bowl time, in the super spirit of that super day they present a super long show. That's right, there were so many titles that the two wanted to highlight this month, that this episode inadvertently turned into (we think) the longest Previews show ever recorded on The Comics Alternative. History in the making, or an annoyingly long experience? You decide. Among the many comic books and graphic novels that Gwen and Derek highlight are: Dark Horse Comics - Xerxes: The Fall of the House of Darius and the Rise of Alexander #1, Black Hammer: Age of Doom #1,  A Study in Emerald, Hellboy: The Complete Short Stories, Vol. 1, Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1, Space Boy, and Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills DC/Vertigo - Action Comics #1000, Super Hero Girls: Out of the Bottle, Supergirl: Being Super, and Astro City #52 IDW Publishing - Sonic the Hedgehog #1-4, Eight Million Ways to Die, Black Crown Quarterly #3, Antar #1, Alack Sinner: The Age of Disenchantment, Jerome K. Jerome Bloche, Vol. 2: The Paper People, and Cloud Hotel Image Comics - Analog #1, Skyward #1, Crossroad Blues: A Nick Travers Graphic Novel, Pervert, and Clover Honey: Special Edition Aardvark-Vanaheim - Love and Aardvarks #1 Abrams ComicArts - The Bridge: How the Roeblings Connected Brooklyn to New York and The Best We Could Do Action Lab Entertainment - The Ghost, The Owl Aftershock Comics - Her Infernal Descent #1 Alternative Comics - Comics for Choice: Illustrated Abortion Stories, History and Politics Arsenal Pulp Press - Forward Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Big Planet Comics Red Bloomsbury Publishing - What to Do When I'm Gone: A Mother's Wisdom to Her Daughter BOOM! Studios - Wild's End, Vol. 3: Journey's End, About Betty's Boob, The Complete The Killer, and Over the Garden Wall, Vol. 4 Cinebook - Bear's Tooth, Vol. 1: Max Devil's Due/1First Comics - Igloo Barbecue: Global Warming Party Drawn and Quarterly - Carnet de Voyage Fantagraphics Books - Blackbird Days, Kramers Ergot 10, and Now #3 First Second - Be Prepared, The City on the Other Side, One Day a Dot, Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter, Vol. 1, and Science Comics: Sharks Humanoids - Kabul Disco, Vol. 1: How I Managed Not to Be Abducted in Afghanistan Lion Forge - Algeria Is Beautiful Like America and This Is a Taco! Little Brown - Castronauts, Vol. 4: Robot Rescue New York Review Comics - The New World: Comics from Mauretania Oni Press - A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns, Archer Coe, Vol. 2: The Way to Dusty Death, Bad Machinery, Vol. 5: The Case of the Fire Inside, and Courtney Crumrin, Vol. 3: The Twilight Kingdom Rebellion/2000Ad - Charley's War: The Definitive Collection, Vol. 1 SelfMadeHero - Apollo and Out in the Open Seven Stories Press - The Graphic Canon of Crime and Mystery, Vol. 2 Silver Sprocket - Daygloayhole #1 Titan Comics - The Beatles' Yellow Submarine Toon Books - Maya Makes a Mess, A Trip to the Bottom of the World, and Zig and Wikki in the Cow Vertical Comics - Moteki, Vol. 1: Love Strikes! and My Boy, Vol. 1 VIZ Media - Homestuck, Book 1: Act 1 and Act 2 and Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction, Vol. 1 North Atlantic Books - Sense of Wonder: My Life in Comic Fandom - The Whole Story   Wed, 07 Feb 2018 16:36:28 -0000 A Look at the February Previews Catalog full 267 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Super! Gwen and Derek are back with another Previews episode. And since February is Super Bowl time, in the super spirit of that super day they present a super long show. That's right, there were so many titles that the two wanted to highlight this month, that this episode inadvertently turned into (we think) the longest Previews show ever recorded on The Comics Alternative. History in the making, or an annoyingly long experience? You decide. Among the many comic books and graphic novels that Gwen and Derek highlight are: Dark Horse Comics - Xerxes: The Fall of the House of Darius and the Rise of Alexander #1, Black Hammer: Age of Doom #1,  A Study in Emerald, Hellboy: The Complete Short Stories, Vol. 1, Resident Alien: An Alien in New York #1, Space Boy, and Michael Chabon's The Escapist: Pulse-Pounding Thrills DC/Vertigo - Action Comics #1000, Super Hero Girls: Out of the Bottle, Supergirl: Being Super, and Astro City #52 IDW Publishing - Sonic the Hedgehog #1-4, Eight Million Ways to Die, Black Crown Quarterly #3, Antar #1, Alack Sinner: The Age of Disenchantment, Jerome K. Jerome Bloche, Vol. 2: The Paper People, and Cloud Hotel Image Comics - Analog #1, Skyward #1, Crossroad Blues: A Nick Travers Graphic Novel, Pervert, and Clover Honey: Special Edition Aardvark-Vanaheim - Love and Aardvarks #1 Abrams ComicArts - The Bridge: How the Roeblings Connected Brooklyn to New York and The Best We Could Do Action Lab Entertainment - The Ghost, The Owl Aftershock Comics - Her Infernal Descent #1 Alternative Comics - Comics for Choice: Illustrated Abortion Stories, History and Politics Arsenal Pulp Press - Forward Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Big Planet Comics Red Bloomsbury Publishing - What to Do When I'm Gone: A Mother's Wisdom to Her Daughter BOOM! Studios - Wild's End, Vol. 3: Journey's End, About Betty's Boob, The Complete The Killer, and Over the Garden Wall, Vol. 4 Cinebook - Bear's Tooth, Vol. 1: Max Devil's Due/1First Comics - Igloo Barbecue: Global Warming Party Drawn and Quarterly - Carnet de Voyage Fantagraphics Books - Blackbird Days, Kramers Ergot 10, and Now #3 First Second - Be Prepared, The City on the Other Side, One Day a Dot, Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter, Vol. 1, and Science Comics: Sharks Humanoids - Kabul Disco, Vol. 1: How I Managed Not to Be Abducted in Afghanistan Lion Forge - Algeria Is Beautiful Like America and This Is a Taco! Little Brown - Castronauts, Vol. 4: Robot Rescue New York Review Comics - The New World: Comics from Mauretania Oni Press - A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns, Archer Coe, Vol. 2: The Way to Dusty Death, Bad Machinery, Vol. 5: The Case of the Fire Inside, and Courtney Crumrin, Vol. 3: The Twilight Kingdom Rebellion/2000Ad - Charley's War: The Definitive Collection, Vol. 1 SelfMadeHero - Apollo and Out in the Open Seven Stories Press - The Graphic Canon of Crime and Mystery, Vol. 2 Silver Sprocket - Daygloayhole #1 Titan Comics - The Beatles' Yellow Submarine Toon Books - Maya Makes a Mess, A Trip to the Bottom of the World, and Zig and Wikki in the Cow Vertical Comics - Moteki, Vol. 1: Love Strikes! and My Boy, Vol. 1 VIZ Media - Homestuck, Book 1: Act 1 and Act 2 and Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction, Vol. 1 North Atlantic Books - Sense of Wonder: My Life in Comic Fandom - The Whole Story  

Gwen and Derek are back with another Previews episode. And since February is Super Bowl time, in the super spirit of that super day they present a super long show. That's right, there were so many titles that the two wanted to highlight this month, that this episode inadvertently turned into (we think) the longest Previews show ever recorded on The Comics Alternative. History in the making, or an annoyingly long experience? You decide. Among the many comic books and graphic novels that Gwen and Derek highlight are:

 

]]> 9724 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Box Brown http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-box-brown Time Codes: 00:00:43 - Introduction 00:03:01 - Setup of interview 00:05:06 - Interview with Box Brown 01:05:35 - Wrap up 01:06:48 - Contact us Box Brown returns to The Comics Alternative, this time discussing his new book Is This Guy for Real?: The Unbelievable Andy Kaufman, just out this week from First Second. Similar to his previous Andre the Giant, this is a graphic biography of a colorful celebrity with a complicated life story...and involving wrestling. Box talks with Derek about his ideas for beginning this project, his appreciation of stand-up comedy, the challenges he faced in constructing Kaufman's story, and how his emphases are notably different from those of Miloš Forman's 1999 biopic Man on the Moon. And since both Box and Derek are big Andy Kaufman fans, there's a lot of nerding out and reminiscing over the comedian's many TV appearances, many of which can be found on YouTube. So put on your wrestling tights, slip into that sequin high-collar Elvis jacket, and get ready to engage with this friendly, friendly world.   Tue, 06 Feb 2018 13:32:32 -0000 Another Interview with Box Brown full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Thank You Very Much Time Codes: 00:00:43 - Introduction 00:03:01 - Setup of interview 00:05:06 - Interview with Box Brown 01:05:35 - Wrap up 01:06:48 - Contact us Box Brown returns to The Comics Alternative, this time discussing his new book Is This Guy for Real?: The Unbelievable Andy Kaufman, just out this week from First Second. Similar to his previous Andre the Giant, this is a graphic biography of a colorful celebrity with a complicated life story...and involving wrestling. Box talks with Derek about his ideas for beginning this project, his appreciation of stand-up comedy, the challenges he faced in constructing Kaufman's story, and how his emphases are notably different from those of Miloš Forman's 1999 biopic Man on the Moon. And since both Box and Derek are big Andy Kaufman fans, there's a lot of nerding out and reminiscing over the comedian's many TV appearances, many of which can be found on YouTube. So put on your wrestling tights, slip into that sequin high-collar Elvis jacket, and get ready to engage with this friendly, friendly world.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:43 - Introduction
  • 00:03:01 - Setup of interview
  • 00:05:06 - Interview with Box Brown
  • 01:05:35 - Wrap up
  • 01:06:48 - Contact us

Box Brown returns to The Comics Alternative, this time discussing his new book Is This Guy for Real?: The Unbelievable Andy Kaufman, just out this week from First Second. Similar to his previous Andre the Giant, this is a graphic biography of a colorful celebrity with a complicated life story...and involving wrestling. Box talks with Derek about his ideas for beginning this project, his appreciation of stand-up comedy, the challenges he faced in constructing Kaufman's story, and how his emphases are notably different from those of Miloš Forman's 1999 biopic Man on the Moon. And since both Box and Derek are big Andy Kaufman fans, there's a lot of nerding out and reminiscing over the comedian's many TV appearances, many of which can be found on YouTube. So put on your wrestling tights, slip into that sequin high-collar Elvis jacket, and get ready to engage with this friendly, friendly world.

 

]]> 4281 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Dave Calver http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-dave-calver Derek talks with Dave Calver about his new book Limbo Lounge. This is his first graphic novel, and it's a first for IDW Publishing, a joint effort between two of its imprints, Yoe Books and Top Shelf Productions. Over the course of their conversation, the two discuss the origins of this project, the author's effective use of coloring as a narrative tool, the surreal and tonally ambiguous nature of the work, how Dave's background as an illustrator informed his storytelling, and where his efforts, largely inspired by Limbo Lounge, are taking him now.   Mon, 05 Feb 2018 03:22:31 -0000 An Interview with Dave Calver full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Concentrating on the worms" Derek talks with Dave Calver about his new book Limbo Lounge. This is his first graphic novel, and it's a first for IDW Publishing, a joint effort between two of its imprints, Yoe Books and Top Shelf Productions. Over the course of their conversation, the two discuss the origins of this project, the author's effective use of coloring as a narrative tool, the surreal and tonally ambiguous nature of the work, how Dave's background as an illustrator informed his storytelling, and where his efforts, largely inspired by Limbo Lounge, are taking him now.  

Derek talks with Dave Calver about his new book Limbo Lounge. This is his first graphic novel, and it's a first for IDW Publishing, a joint effort between two of its imprints, Yoe Books and Top Shelf Productions. Over the course of their conversation, the two discuss the origins of this project, the author's effective use of coloring as a narrative tool, the surreal and tonally ambiguous nature of the work, how Dave's background as an illustrator informed his storytelling, and where his efforts, largely inspired by Limbo Lounge, are taking him now.

 

]]> 3923 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Birdcage Bottom Books 2018 Publications http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-birdcage-bottom-books-2018-publications   On this Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with J.T. Yost about his current crowdfunding campaign for Birdcage Bottom Books' 2018 publications. This year, Birdcage Bottom Books is hoping to introduce to a wider audience a variety of cartoonists currently flying under many readers' radar. By pre-ordering through this Kickstarter campaign, you'll both ensure these publications see the light of day and save money. As J.T. points out, this is also your chance to get custom artwork, original comics page art, exclusive mini-comics, and more. But the core of this campaign is great comics such as Eva Müller's In the Future We Are Dead Sara Lautman's Pictures of Bananas and Funny Bugs J.T. Yost's Thonger Dongers Jordan Jeffries's The Complete Matinee Junkie: Five Years at the Movies D. Bradford Gambles's A Lone Deer at the End of the World Larkin Ford's Goat Song Stephanie Mannheim's Nate the Nonconformist Has a Rival! If you want to discover what indie comics are all about, then definitely back this Kickstarter!     Sat, 03 Feb 2018 13:28:49 -0000 Kickstarting Birdcage Bottom Books 2018 Publications full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Indie to the Max   On this Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with J.T. Yost about his current crowdfunding campaign for Birdcage Bottom Books' 2018 publications. This year, Birdcage Bottom Books is hoping to introduce to a wider audience a variety of cartoonists currently flying under many readers' radar. By pre-ordering through this Kickstarter campaign, you'll both ensure these publications see the light of day and save money. As J.T. points out, this is also your chance to get custom artwork, original comics page art, exclusive mini-comics, and more. But the core of this campaign is great comics such as Eva Müller's In the Future We Are Dead Sara Lautman's Pictures of Bananas and Funny Bugs J.T. Yost's Thonger Dongers Jordan Jeffries's The Complete Matinee Junkie: Five Years at the Movies D. Bradford Gambles's A Lone Deer at the End of the World Larkin Ford's Goat Song Stephanie Mannheim's Nate the Nonconformist Has a Rival! If you want to discover what indie comics are all about, then definitely back this Kickstarter!      

On this Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with J.T. Yost about his current crowdfunding campaign for Birdcage Bottom Books' 2018 publications.

This year, Birdcage Bottom Books is hoping to introduce to a wider audience a variety of cartoonists currently flying under many readers' radar. By pre-ordering through this Kickstarter campaign, you'll both ensure these publications see the light of day and save money. As J.T. points out, this is also your chance to get custom artwork, original comics page art, exclusive mini-comics, and more. But the core of this campaign is great comics such as

If you want to discover what indie comics are all about, then definitely back this Kickstarter!

 

 

]]> 1276 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Clifford V. Johnson http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-clifford-v-johnson Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Setup of interview 00:03:59 - Interview with Clifford V. Johnson 01:28:40 - Wrap up 01:29:23 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek has as his guest Clifford V. Johnson. He is a professor of physics at the University of Southern California, and his new book The Dialogues: Conversations about the Nature of the Universe was released last fall by the MIT Press. Clifford talks with Derek about the genesis of this project, his choice of the dialogue form in structuring his text, and the challenges -- as well as the appropriateness -- of representing complex scientific concepts through comics. The Dialogues is a fascinating work of ideas, one that could even be categorized as a graphic cycle, and a book that can be appreciated by scientists and laypeople alike. Science! Be sure to check out Prof. Johnson's blog, Asymptotia, for his ongoing thoughts on science in our contemporary culture. Fri, 02 Feb 2018 14:24:13 -0000 An Interview with Clifford V. Johnson full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Blinded by Science Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Setup of interview 00:03:59 - Interview with Clifford V. Johnson 01:28:40 - Wrap up 01:29:23 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek has as his guest Clifford V. Johnson. He is a professor of physics at the University of Southern California, and his new book The Dialogues: Conversations about the Nature of the Universe was released last fall by the MIT Press. Clifford talks with Derek about the genesis of this project, his choice of the dialogue form in structuring his text, and the challenges -- as well as the appropriateness -- of representing complex scientific concepts through comics. The Dialogues is a fascinating work of ideas, one that could even be categorized as a graphic cycle, and a book that can be appreciated by scientists and laypeople alike. Science! Be sure to check out Prof. Johnson's blog, Asymptotia, for his ongoing thoughts on science in our contemporary culture. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:34 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:59 - Interview with Clifford V. Johnson
  • 01:28:40 - Wrap up
  • 01:29:23 - Contact us

On this interview episode Derek has as his guest Clifford V. Johnson. He is a professor of physics at the University of Southern California, and his new book The Dialogues: Conversations about the Nature of the Universe was released last fall by the MIT Press. Clifford talks with Derek about the genesis of this project, his choice of the dialogue form in structuring his text, and the challenges -- as well as the appropriateness -- of representing complex scientific concepts through comics. The Dialogues is a fascinating work of ideas, one that could even be categorized as a graphic cycle, and a book that can be appreciated by scientists and laypeople alike. Science!

Be sure to check out Prof. Johnson's blog, Asymptotia, for his ongoing thoughts on science in our contemporary culture.

]]> 5544 no Episode 266: Reviews of Red Winter, Motherlands #1, and The Archies # 4 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-266-reviews-of-red-winter-motherlands-1-and-the-archies-4 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:003:11 - We get significant listener responses! 00:07:41 - Red Winter 00:32:46 - Motherlands #1 00:50:03 - The Archies #4 01:14:34 - Wrap up 01:15:39 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss, yet again, three diverse titles. They begin with Anneli Furmark's Red Winter (Drawn and Quarterly). It's the the first in a trilogy of graphic novels, although this is Furmark's first work translated into English. The narrative is set in the late 1970s and centers on two lovers struggling with complicating relationships, both marital and political. Each chapter focuses on a particular character involved in the drama, and Furmark's presentation is both contemplative and tonally provocative. The guys eagerly await further Furmark translations coming from Drawn and Quarterly. Next, the Two Guys check out the first issue of a new Vertigo Comics miniseries, Motherlands, written by Si Spurrier and with art by Rachel Stott. This is a sci-fi, futuristic story of a middle-age multi-dimensional bounty hunter, Tabitha Tubach, trying to earn a living, while at the same time struggling with her past and a mother who marked it (and not for the better). And as if familial matters couldn't get more any more trying, the end of this inaugural issue brings additional complications with the emergence of Tabitha's sibling, Bubbsa. Gene and Derek wrap up this week's show with Alex Segura, Matthew Rosenberg, and Joe Eisma's The Archies #4. It's unusual that the guys review an issue of a series beyond the first one or two issues, but this is a special case. The focus of The Archies #4 is a musical group near and dear to both Derek and Gene, The Monkees. That's right, Davy, Mickey, Peter, and Mike meet The Archies...which is not as unusual as you might think. After all, both groups have been perceived as "fictions," both have been categorized as bubblegum pop, both inadvertently find themselves in weird dilemmas, and both have a history with Don Kirshner. Hey hey... Wed, 31 Jan 2018 16:19:06 -0000 Reviews of Red Winter, Motherlands #1, and The Archies # 4 full 266 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Here We Come, Walking Down the Street... Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:003:11 - We get significant listener responses! 00:07:41 - Red Winter 00:32:46 - Motherlands #1 00:50:03 - The Archies #4 01:14:34 - Wrap up 01:15:39 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss, yet again, three diverse titles. They begin with Anneli Furmark's Red Winter (Drawn and Quarterly). It's the the first in a trilogy of graphic novels, although this is Furmark's first work translated into English. The narrative is set in the late 1970s and centers on two lovers struggling with complicating relationships, both marital and political. Each chapter focuses on a particular character involved in the drama, and Furmark's presentation is both contemplative and tonally provocative. The guys eagerly await further Furmark translations coming from Drawn and Quarterly. Next, the Two Guys check out the first issue of a new Vertigo Comics miniseries, Motherlands, written by Si Spurrier and with art by Rachel Stott. This is a sci-fi, futuristic story of a middle-age multi-dimensional bounty hunter, Tabitha Tubach, trying to earn a living, while at the same time struggling with her past and a mother who marked it (and not for the better). And as if familial matters couldn't get more any more trying, the end of this inaugural issue brings additional complications with the emergence of Tabitha's sibling, Bubbsa. Gene and Derek wrap up this week's show with Alex Segura, Matthew Rosenberg, and Joe Eisma's The Archies #4. It's unusual that the guys review an issue of a series beyond the first one or two issues, but this is a special case. The focus of The Archies #4 is a musical group near and dear to both Derek and Gene, The Monkees. That's right, Davy, Mickey, Peter, and Mike meet The Archies...which is not as unusual as you might think. After all, both groups have been perceived as "fictions," both have been categorized as bubblegum pop, both inadvertently find themselves in weird dilemmas, and both have a history with Don Kirshner. Hey hey... Time Codes:

This week Gene and Derek discuss, yet again, three diverse titles. They begin with Anneli Furmark's Red Winter (Drawn and Quarterly). It's the the first in a trilogy of graphic novels, although this is Furmark's first work translated into English. The narrative is set in the late 1970s and centers on two lovers struggling with complicating relationships, both marital and political. Each chapter focuses on a particular character involved in the drama, and Furmark's presentation is both contemplative and tonally provocative. The guys eagerly await further Furmark translations coming from Drawn and Quarterly.

Next, the Two Guys check out the first issue of a new Vertigo Comics miniseries, Motherlands, written by Si Spurrier and with art by Rachel Stott. This is a sci-fi, futuristic story of a middle-age multi-dimensional bounty hunter, Tabitha Tubach, trying to earn a living, while at the same time struggling with her past and a mother who marked it (and not for the better). And as if familial matters couldn't get more any more trying, the end of this inaugural issue brings additional complications with the emergence of Tabitha's sibling, Bubbsa.

Gene and Derek wrap up this week's show with Alex Segura, Matthew Rosenberg, and Joe Eisma's The Archies #4. It's unusual that the guys review an issue of a series beyond the first one or two issues, but this is a special case. The focus of The Archies #4 is a musical group near and dear to both Derek and Gene, The Monkees. That's right, Davy, Mickey, Peter, and Mike meet The Archies...which is not as unusual as you might think. After all, both groups have been perceived as "fictions," both have been categorized as bubblegum pop, both inadvertently find themselves in weird dilemmas, and both have a history with Don Kirshner. Hey hey...

]]> 4755 no Manga: Reviews of Five Kitaro Volumes and Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-five-kitaro-volumes-and-mangasia-the-definitive-guide-to-asian-comics Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Listener mail! 00:08:31 - Drawn and Quarterly's Kitaro series 01:00:00 - Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics 01:22:54 - Wrap up 01:24:24 - Contact us On the January manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss the first five volumes in Drawn and Quarterly's Kitaro series, created by Shigeru Mizuki. This includes The Birth of Kitaro, Kitaro Meets Nurarihyon, Kitaro and the Great Tanuki War, Kitaro's Strange Adventures, and the most recent Kitaro the Vampire Slayer. Both guys love this character, and they have a good time highlighting the usual, and at times wacky, characters that populate Mizuki's yokai narratives. Hair that shoots out projectiles? Walking eyeballs? Farts that destroy? Poisonous pee? Yep...this is the world of Kitaro. After that, Shea and Derek take a completely different turn with Paul Gravett's Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics (Thames and Hudson). This is a visually infused overview of manga from across Asia, not just that in Japan. Gravett's encyclopedic knowledge of Asian comics is unparalleled. And although Shea would have wanted a more critical text, the book's graphic-centric approach serves as a indispensable introduction to the medium. Wed, 31 Jan 2018 03:44:43 -0000 Reviews of Five Kitaro Volumes and Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Monstrous Manga Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:52 - Listener mail! 00:08:31 - Drawn and Quarterly's Kitaro series 01:00:00 - Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics 01:22:54 - Wrap up 01:24:24 - Contact us On the January manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss the first five volumes in Drawn and Quarterly's Kitaro series, created by Shigeru Mizuki. This includes The Birth of Kitaro, Kitaro Meets Nurarihyon, Kitaro and the Great Tanuki War, Kitaro's Strange Adventures, and the most recent Kitaro the Vampire Slayer. Both guys love this character, and they have a good time highlighting the usual, and at times wacky, characters that populate Mizuki's yokai narratives. Hair that shoots out projectiles? Walking eyeballs? Farts that destroy? Poisonous pee? Yep...this is the world of Kitaro. After that, Shea and Derek take a completely different turn with Paul Gravett's Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics (Thames and Hudson). This is a visually infused overview of manga from across Asia, not just that in Japan. Gravett's encyclopedic knowledge of Asian comics is unparalleled. And although Shea would have wanted a more critical text, the book's graphic-centric approach serves as a indispensable introduction to the medium. Time Codes:

On the January manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss the first five volumes in Drawn and Quarterly's Kitaro series, created by Shigeru Mizuki. This includes The Birth of Kitaro, Kitaro Meets Nurarihyon, Kitaro and the Great Tanuki War, Kitaro's Strange Adventures, and the most recent Kitaro the Vampire Slayer. Both guys love this character, and they have a good time highlighting the usual, and at times wacky, characters that populate Mizuki's yokai narratives. Hair that shoots out projectiles? Walking eyeballs? Farts that destroy? Poisonous pee? Yep...this is the world of Kitaro.

After that, Shea and Derek take a completely different turn with Paul Gravett's Mangasia: The Definitive Guide to Asian Comics (Thames and Hudson). This is a visually infused overview of manga from across Asia, not just that in Japan. Gravett's encyclopedic knowledge of Asian comics is unparalleled. And although Shea would have wanted a more critical text, the book's graphic-centric approach serves as a indispensable introduction to the medium.

]]> 5254 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: The Middle Age http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-the-middle-age This week Derek talks with Steve Conley about his Kickstarter campaign The Middle Age, based on his Eisner Award-nominated webcomic and offering both enamel pins and print versions of his comic. Sean and Derek discussed The Middle Age on their webcomics series last year. It's an old-school and fun kind of adventure comic, a fantasy featuring a slightly older knight, Sir Quimp, who lost his love, his sword, and his job. And he is on a quest to win them all back, and "aiding" Sir Quimp on his quest is a talking sword, Maledicta, which hates him. Steve's Kickstarter campaign is centered on a limited edition enamel pin set based on the characters in his webcomic, as well as print editions of The Middle Age. It's part of Kickstarter's Make/100 initiative. This campaign ends on January 31, so don't miss out! Back this Kickstarter now! Check the reward levels! Sat, 27 Jan 2018 12:51:45 -0000 Kickstarting The Middle Age full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Questing Has Never Been So Wacky This week Derek talks with Steve Conley about his Kickstarter campaign The Middle Age, based on his Eisner Award-nominated webcomic and offering both enamel pins and print versions of his comic. Sean and Derek discussed The Middle Age on their webcomics series last year. It's an old-school and fun kind of adventure comic, a fantasy featuring a slightly older knight, Sir Quimp, who lost his love, his sword, and his job. And he is on a quest to win them all back, and "aiding" Sir Quimp on his quest is a talking sword, Maledicta, which hates him. Steve's Kickstarter campaign is centered on a limited edition enamel pin set based on the characters in his webcomic, as well as print editions of The Middle Age. It's part of Kickstarter's Make/100 initiative. This campaign ends on January 31, so don't miss out! Back this Kickstarter now! Check the reward levels!

This week Derek talks with Steve Conley about his Kickstarter campaign The Middle Age, based on his Eisner Award-nominated webcomic and offering both enamel pins and print versions of his comic.

Sean and Derek discussed The Middle Age on their webcomics series last year. It's an old-school and fun kind of adventure comic, a fantasy featuring a slightly older knight, Sir Quimp, who lost his love, his sword, and his job. And he is on a quest to win them all back, and "aiding" Sir Quimp on his quest is a talking sword, Maledicta, which hates him. Steve's Kickstarter campaign is centered on a limited edition enamel pin set based on the characters in his webcomic, as well as print editions of The Middle Age. It's part of Kickstarter's Make/100 initiative.

This campaign ends on January 31, so don't miss out! Back this Kickstarter now!

Check the reward levels!

]]> 1185 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Karen Berger http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-karen-berger Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:03:01 - Setup of interview 00:04:46 - Interview with Karen Berger 01:15:04 - Wrap up 01:17:14 - Contact us Paul and Derek are excited to have Karen Berger on The Comics Alternative. The first release from her new Dark Horse Comics imprint, Berger Books, occurs next week, and the guys talk with Karen on the cusp of this event. The Two Guys ask their guest about the genesis of Berger Books as well as her efforts in launching new titles -- such as Hungry Ghosts, Incognegro: Rennaisance, Mata Hari, and The Seeds -- and securing impressive talent. But they also talk with Karen about her time working at DC Comics and establishing the industry-defining Vertigo brand. This is a fun and informative interview, and Karen Berger is one of the most engaging and pleasant guests the Two Guys have ever had on the podcast. Thu, 25 Jan 2018 13:48:33 -0000 An Interview with Karen Berger full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Back on the Edge Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:03:01 - Setup of interview 00:04:46 - Interview with Karen Berger 01:15:04 - Wrap up 01:17:14 - Contact us Paul and Derek are excited to have Karen Berger on The Comics Alternative. The first release from her new Dark Horse Comics imprint, Berger Books, occurs next week, and the guys talk with Karen on the cusp of this event. The Two Guys ask their guest about the genesis of Berger Books as well as her efforts in launching new titles -- such as Hungry Ghosts, Incognegro: Rennaisance, Mata Hari, and The Seeds -- and securing impressive talent. But they also talk with Karen about her time working at DC Comics and establishing the industry-defining Vertigo brand. This is a fun and informative interview, and Karen Berger is one of the most engaging and pleasant guests the Two Guys have ever had on the podcast. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:03:01 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:46 - Interview with Karen Berger
  • 01:15:04 - Wrap up
  • 01:17:14 - Contact us

Paul and Derek are excited to have Karen Berger on The Comics Alternative. The first release from her new Dark Horse Comics imprint, Berger Books, occurs next week, and the guys talk with Karen on the cusp of this event. The Two Guys ask their guest about the genesis of Berger Books as well as her efforts in launching new titles -- such as Hungry Ghosts, Incognegro: Rennaisance, Mata Hari, and The Seeds -- and securing impressive talent. But they also talk with Karen about her time working at DC Comics and establishing the industry-defining Vertigo brand. This is a fun and informative interview, and Karen Berger is one of the most engaging and pleasant guests the Two Guys have ever had on the podcast.

]]> 4819 no Episode 265: Reviews of The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head, Days of Hate #1, and Vinegar Teeth # 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-265-reviews-of-the-three-rooms-in-valeries-head-days-of-hate-1-and-vinegar-teeth-1 Time Codes: 00:32 - Introduction 003:07 - Gene's flu...part deux 05:15 - The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head 26:34 - Days of Hate #1 40:42 - Vinegar Teeth #1 57:46 - Wrap up 58:45 - Contact us On this week's review episode, Gene and Derek discuss recent titles that are quite varied in tone and narrative approach. They begin with  David Gaffney and Dan Berry's The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head (Top Shelf/IDW Publishing). This is a somewhat surreal, and dark, look at a young woman and her various relationships with men. The memories of these encounters are something she apparently cannot let go of, and this is represented deftly through the metaphor of rooms and psychological compartmentalization. The guys like the fact that the story ends ambiguously -- and with happy elves, no less! -- but they're not too sure what to make of the sudden shift in point of view about two thirds of the way through. The Two Guys follow this with a very timely new title. Days of Hate #1, written by Aleš Kot and with art by Danijel Žeželj (Image Comics), is set in the year 2022, a time after some sort of civil war takes place in the US -- we're not sure yet of the details surrounding this conflict -- and it apparently has resulted, or perhaps even caused by, the rise of extremist or alt-right groups in America. In this inaugural installment, we're introduced to several characters on various ends of the political spectrum, some of which have intermingled and contentious pasts. There are many questions set up and left unanswered in this first issue, but that doesn't detract from the intrigue and motivation to continue on with the series. And what better way to follow up a story on the alt-right than a discussion of monstrous Lovecraftian mayhem? This is exactly what you'll find in Damon Gentry and Troy Nixey's Vinegar Teeth #1 (Dark Horse Comics).It's a strange and wacky tale revolving around a schmucky, but effective, cop named Artie Buckle. An undercover assignment he's on is almost ruined when a Cthulhu-like creature pierces his world's dimension, with the unlikely result that the city's mayor makes this creature a police officer and assigns him as Artie's partner. What transpires is the beginning of a weird buddy cop story with interdimensional, and narratively warped, potential. Wed, 24 Jan 2018 15:48:56 -0000 Reviews of The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head, Days of Hate #1, and Vinegar Teeth # 1 full 265 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Darkness, Cthulhu, and the Alt-Right Time Codes: 00:32 - Introduction 003:07 - Gene's flu...part deux 05:15 - The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head 26:34 - Days of Hate #1 40:42 - Vinegar Teeth #1 57:46 - Wrap up 58:45 - Contact us On this week's review episode, Gene and Derek discuss recent titles that are quite varied in tone and narrative approach. They begin with  David Gaffney and Dan Berry's The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head (Top Shelf/IDW Publishing). This is a somewhat surreal, and dark, look at a young woman and her various relationships with men. The memories of these encounters are something she apparently cannot let go of, and this is represented deftly through the metaphor of rooms and psychological compartmentalization. The guys like the fact that the story ends ambiguously -- and with happy elves, no less! -- but they're not too sure what to make of the sudden shift in point of view about two thirds of the way through. The Two Guys follow this with a very timely new title. Days of Hate #1, written by Aleš Kot and with art by Danijel Žeželj (Image Comics), is set in the year 2022, a time after some sort of civil war takes place in the US -- we're not sure yet of the details surrounding this conflict -- and it apparently has resulted, or perhaps even caused by, the rise of extremist or alt-right groups in America. In this inaugural installment, we're introduced to several characters on various ends of the political spectrum, some of which have intermingled and contentious pasts. There are many questions set up and left unanswered in this first issue, but that doesn't detract from the intrigue and motivation to continue on with the series. And what better way to follow up a story on the alt-right than a discussion of monstrous Lovecraftian mayhem? This is exactly what you'll find in Damon Gentry and Troy Nixey's Vinegar Teeth #1 (Dark Horse Comics).It's a strange and wacky tale revolving around a schmucky, but effective, cop named Artie Buckle. An undercover assignment he's on is almost ruined when a Cthulhu-like creature pierces his world's dimension, with the unlikely result that the city's mayor makes this creature a police officer and assigns him as Artie's partner. What transpires is the beginning of a weird buddy cop story with interdimensional, and narratively warped, potential. Time Codes:

On this week's review episode, Gene and Derek discuss recent titles that are quite varied in tone and narrative approach. They begin with  David Gaffney and Dan Berry's The Three Rooms in Valerie's Head (Top Shelf/IDW Publishing). This is a somewhat surreal, and dark, look at a young woman and her various relationships with men. The memories of these encounters are something she apparently cannot let go of, and this is represented deftly through the metaphor of rooms and psychological compartmentalization. The guys like the fact that the story ends ambiguously -- and with happy elves, no less! -- but they're not too sure what to make of the sudden shift in point of view about two thirds of the way through.

The Two Guys follow this with a very timely new title. Days of Hate #1, written by Aleš Kot and with art by Danijel Žeželj (Image Comics), is set in the year 2022, a time after some sort of civil war takes place in the US -- we're not sure yet of the details surrounding this conflict -- and it apparently has resulted, or perhaps even caused by, the rise of extremist or alt-right groups in America. In this inaugural installment, we're introduced to several characters on various ends of the political spectrum, some of which have intermingled and contentious pasts. There are many questions set up and left unanswered in this first issue, but that doesn't detract from the intrigue and motivation to continue on with the series.

And what better way to follow up a story on the alt-right than a discussion of monstrous Lovecraftian mayhem? This is exactly what you'll find in Damon Gentry and Troy Nixey's Vinegar Teeth #1 (Dark Horse Comics).It's a strange and wacky tale revolving around a schmucky, but effective, cop named Artie Buckle. An undercover assignment he's on is almost ruined when a Cthulhu-like creature pierces his world's dimension, with the unlikely result that the city's mayor makes this creature a police officer and assigns him as Artie's partner. What transpires is the beginning of a weird buddy cop story with interdimensional, and narratively warped, potential.

]]> 3773 yes Episode 264: Our Favorite Comics of 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-264-our-favorite-comics-of-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:14 - Contexts and caveats 00:11:32 - Our favorite comics of 2017 02:09:06 - Wrapping up our favorites, and honorable mentions 02:13:52 - Contact us Paul and Derek are back with The Comics Alternative's annual "Favorites" episode. This is where the Two Guys share what they consider to be the best comics of the past year. Usually this year-end show is released as the very last regular review episode of each year, but this time around the guys had to postpone the recording due to family issues. But we're not far from the end of 2017, and Paul and Derek wanted to get the show out in as timely a manner as possible. So here you have it, the Two Guys' 10 favorite titles of 2017: Paul's Top 10 of 2017 The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir - Thi Bui (Abrams) Mech Cadet Yu - Greg Pak and Tak Miyazawa (BOOM! Studios) Golden Kamuy - Satoru Noda (VIZ Media) Tenements, Towers and Trash: An Unconventional Illustrated History of New York City - Julia Wertz (Black Dog & Leventhal) Lighter Than My Shadow - Katie Green (Lion Forge) Pope Hats #5 - Ethan Rilly (Adhouse) Spinning - Tillie Walden (First Second) Nightlights - Lorena Alvarez (Nobrow Press) Eartha - Cathy Malkasian (Fantagraphics) My Favorite Thing Is Monsters - Emil Ferris (Fantagraphics) Derek's Top 10 of 2017 Goodnight Punpun, Vols 5-7 - Inio Asano (VIZ Media) Doom Patrol - Gerard Way and Nick Derington / Shade, The Changing Girl – Cecil Castellucci and Marley Zarcone (Young Animal - DC Comics) Everything Is Flammable - Gabrielle Bell (Uncivilized Books) Cartoon Clouds - Joseph Remnant (Fantagraphics) Education - John Hankiewicz (Fantagraphics) The Abominable Mr. Seabrook – Joe Ollmann (Drawn and Quarterly) Uncomfortably Happily - Yeon-sik Hong (Drawn and Quarterly) Grass Kings - Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins (BOOM! Studios) / Royal City - Jeff Lemire (Image Comics) Palookaville 23 - Seth (Drawn and Quarterly) My Favorite Thing Is Monsters - Emil Ferris (Fantagraphics) The Honorable Mentions…These Titles Almost, but Just Didn’t Quite, Make It onto Each Guy's List For Paul Black - Kwanza Osajyefo, Tim Smith III, Jamal Igle, Khary Randolph and Sarah Litt (Black Mask Comics) Motor Girl - Terry Moore (Abstract Studio) Rock Candy Mountain - Kyle Starks (Image Comics) Mister Miracle - Tom King and Mitch Gerads (DC Comics) Giant Days - John Allison and Lissa Treiman (BOOM! Box) Crickets # 6 - Sammy Harkham (Fantagraphics) Boundless - Jillian Tamaki (Drawn and Quarterly) House of Women - Sophie Goldstein (Fantagraphics) Savage Town - Declan Shalvey and Philip Barrett (Image Comics) The Stone Heart - Faith Erin Hicks (First Second) Mighty Jack and the Goblin King - Ben Hatke (First Second) Uncomfortably Happily - Yeon-Sik Hong (Drawn and Quarterly) For Derek Happy Hour in America #1 - Tim Lane (Fantagraphics) Fire!!: The Zora Neal Hurston Story - Peter Bagge (Drawn and Quarterly) Her Bark and Her Bite - James Albon (Top Shelf) Unreal City - D.J. Bryant (Fantagraphics) Time and Vine - Thom Zahler (IDW) Resist! - Francoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary - Christian Perrissin and Matthieu Blanchin (IDW) Lighter Than My Shadow - Katie Green (Lion Forge)   Mon, 22 Jan 2018 16:47:41 -0000 Our Favorite Comics of 2017 full 264 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal And the Winner Is... Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:14 - Contexts and caveats 00:11:32 - Our favorite comics of 2017 02:09:06 - Wrapping up our favorites, and honorable mentions 02:13:52 - Contact us Paul and Derek are back with The Comics Alternative's annual "Favorites" episode. This is where the Two Guys share what they consider to be the best comics of the past year. Usually this year-end show is released as the very last regular review episode of each year, but this time around the guys had to postpone the recording due to family issues. But we're not far from the end of 2017, and Paul and Derek wanted to get the show out in as timely a manner as possible. So here you have it, the Two Guys' 10 favorite titles of 2017: Paul's Top 10 of 2017 The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir - Thi Bui (Abrams) Mech Cadet Yu - Greg Pak and Tak Miyazawa (BOOM! Studios) Golden Kamuy - Satoru Noda (VIZ Media) Tenements, Towers and Trash: An Unconventional Illustrated History of New York City - Julia Wertz (Black Dog & Leventhal) Lighter Than My Shadow - Katie Green (Lion Forge) Pope Hats #5 - Ethan Rilly (Adhouse) Spinning - Tillie Walden (First Second) Nightlights - Lorena Alvarez (Nobrow Press) Eartha - Cathy Malkasian (Fantagraphics) My Favorite Thing Is Monsters - Emil Ferris (Fantagraphics) Derek's Top 10 of 2017 Goodnight Punpun, Vols 5-7 - Inio Asano (VIZ Media) Doom Patrol - Gerard Way and Nick Derington / Shade, The Changing Girl – Cecil Castellucci and Marley Zarcone (Young Animal - DC Comics) Everything Is Flammable - Gabrielle Bell (Uncivilized Books) Cartoon Clouds - Joseph Remnant (Fantagraphics) Education - John Hankiewicz (Fantagraphics) The Abominable Mr. Seabrook – Joe Ollmann (Drawn and Quarterly) Uncomfortably Happily - Yeon-sik Hong (Drawn and Quarterly) Grass Kings - Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins (BOOM! Studios) / Royal City - Jeff Lemire (Image Comics) Palookaville 23 - Seth (Drawn and Quarterly) My Favorite Thing Is Monsters - Emil Ferris (Fantagraphics) The Honorable Mentions…These Titles Almost, but Just Didn’t Quite, Make It onto Each Guy's List For Paul Black - Kwanza Osajyefo, Tim Smith III, Jamal Igle, Khary Randolph and Sarah Litt (Black Mask Comics) Motor Girl - Terry Moore (Abstract Studio) Rock Candy Mountain - Kyle Starks (Image Comics) Mister Miracle - Tom King and Mitch Gerads (DC Comics) Giant Days - John Allison and Lissa Treiman (BOOM! Box) Crickets # 6 - Sammy Harkham (Fantagraphics) Boundless - Jillian Tamaki (Drawn and Quarterly) House of Women - Sophie Goldstein (Fantagraphics) Savage Town - Declan Shalvey and Philip Barrett (Image Comics) The Stone Heart - Faith Erin Hicks (First Second) Mighty Jack and the Goblin King - Ben Hatke (First Second) Uncomfortably Happily - Yeon-Sik Hong (Drawn and Quarterly) For Derek Happy Hour in America #1 - Tim Lane (Fantagraphics) Fire!!: The Zora Neal Hurston Story - Peter Bagge (Drawn and Quarterly) Her Bark and Her Bite - James Albon (Top Shelf) Unreal City - D.J. Bryant (Fantagraphics) Time and Vine - Thom Zahler (IDW) Resist! - Francoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman Calamity Jane: The Calamitous Life of Martha Jane Cannary - Christian Perrissin and Matthieu Blanchin (IDW) Lighter Than My Shadow - Katie Green (Lion Forge)   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:03:14 - Contexts and caveats
  • 00:11:32 - Our favorite comics of 2017
  • 02:09:06 - Wrapping up our favorites, and honorable mentions
  • 02:13:52 - Contact us

Paul and Derek are back with The Comics Alternative's annual "Favorites" episode. This is where the Two Guys share what they consider to be the best comics of the past year. Usually this year-end show is released as the very last regular review episode of each year, but this time around the guys had to postpone the recording due to family issues. But we're not far from the end of 2017, and Paul and Derek wanted to get the show out in as timely a manner as possible. So here you have it, the Two Guys' 10 favorite titles of 2017:

Paul's Top 10 of 2017

Derek's Top 10 of 2017

The Honorable Mentions…These Titles Almost, but Just Didn’t Quite, Make It onto Each Guy's List For Paul For Derek

 

]]> 8228 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Life in Space: A Comic Book Anthology http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-life-in-space-a-comic-book-anthology This week on the Kickstarter series, Derek talks with Mike Emeritz and Marshall Couture about their current campaign, Life in Space: A Comic Book Anthology. Over the course of their conversation, Mike and Marshall reveal the genesis of this project, how they gathered a variety of creators together, and the process of decided on a particular anthology theme. This project is coordinated by Mike Emeritz, Marshall Lee, and Chris McQuinlan, with Emeritz designing and editing the book. Kevin Cross provides the cover art, and contributors include: Jerry Gonzalez Carrie Schurman Holly Brown Mike Emeritz Casey Roberson Marshall Lee Chris McQuinlan Noah 'Ox' Baas Dalibor Zujovic J. Allen Ratz Yannemal Patrick Brown Adam Lore Gazbot Scott Serkland Karyn Lewis Bonfiglio Lenwood Brown III Sasha Fitzgerald Johannes Vick Don't miss out on this Kickstarter. Check it out to learn more about Life in Space! Sample Art     Sat, 20 Jan 2018 12:26:58 -0000 Kickstarting Life in Space full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Spaced Out This week on the Kickstarter series, Derek talks with Mike Emeritz and Marshall Couture about their current campaign, Life in Space: A Comic Book Anthology. Over the course of their conversation, Mike and Marshall reveal the genesis of this project, how they gathered a variety of creators together, and the process of decided on a particular anthology theme. This project is coordinated by Mike Emeritz, Marshall Lee, and Chris McQuinlan, with Emeritz designing and editing the book. Kevin Cross provides the cover art, and contributors include: Jerry Gonzalez Carrie Schurman Holly Brown Mike Emeritz Casey Roberson Marshall Lee Chris McQuinlan Noah 'Ox' Baas Dalibor Zujovic J. Allen Ratz Yannemal Patrick Brown Adam Lore Gazbot Scott Serkland Karyn Lewis Bonfiglio Lenwood Brown III Sasha Fitzgerald Johannes Vick Don't miss out on this Kickstarter. Check it out to learn more about Life in Space! Sample Art    

This week on the Kickstarter series, Derek talks with Mike Emeritz and Marshall Couture about their current campaign, Life in Space: A Comic Book Anthology. Over the course of their conversation, Mike and Marshall reveal the genesis of this project, how they gathered a variety of creators together, and the process of decided on a particular anthology theme.

This project is coordinated by Mike Emeritz, Marshall Lee, and Chris McQuinlan, with Emeritz designing and editing the book. Kevin Cross provides the cover art, and contributors include:

  • Jerry Gonzalez
  • Carrie Schurman
  • Holly Brown
  • Mike Emeritz
  • Casey Roberson
  • Marshall Lee
  • Chris McQuinlan
  • Noah 'Ox' Baas
  • Dalibor Zujovic
  • J. Allen Ratz
  • Yannemal
  • Patrick Brown
  • Adam Lore
  • Gazbot
  • Scott Serkland
  • Karyn Lewis Bonfiglio
  • Lenwood Brown III
  • Sasha Fitzgerald
  • Johannes Vick

Don't miss out on this Kickstarter. Check it out to learn more about Life in Space!

Sample Art

 

 

]]> 1054 no On Location: Starting off the New Year at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-starting-off-the-new-year-at-heroes-arent-hard-to-find For years The Comics Alternative has held a monthly on-location episode where one or two cohosts go into -- physically or virtually -- one of their local comics shops and talk with customers and employees about the comics that their reading, what they're excited about and looking forward to, and what grumblings they may have in terms of comics culture. The last such episode was published last August, right before Derek moved to Charlotte, NC...and as things would turn out, in the final days of Valhalla Games and Comics. But now that Derek has settled in his new environs, he heads over to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, his new local shop in Charlotte (at 417 Pecan Avenue), to begin once again the monthly series. So January's show kicks things off, with Derek introducing customers and shop employees to the podcast and beginning what, we hope, will be a fun and informative monthly visit. Snowy weather hit Charlotte this week, so the ice and cold cut down on traffic in the shop over the past couple of days. But several did come in and take the time to talk on show, sharing what titles they're currently reading and what they're finding exciting, and frustrating, in comics and comics-related media. For example, Isaiah, coming in for his weekly comics, shares his thoughts on recent DC Rebirth storylines and the shenanigans he sees going on at Marvel. Shop employees, Karla and Eli, talk about the some of the comics that are currently or soon-to-be adapted for television -- and Eli is particularly interested in the upcoming series based on Rick Remender's Deadly Class. And shop owner Shelton Drum comes on to discuss their recent move to a new location, next week's Charlotte Mini-Con (taking place on Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Gary Cole Center), and when we can expect to hear announcements about this summer's HeroesCon. A big THANK YOU to Karla and Shelton for helping to make this on-location show happen. And if you're in the Charlotte area, be sure to come by the shop on Wednesday, February 21, for next month's on-location recording! Fri, 19 Jan 2018 12:53:57 -0000 The January On-Location Show at Heroes Aren't Hard to Find full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal New Shop, New Conversations For years The Comics Alternative has held a monthly on-location episode where one or two cohosts go into -- physically or virtually -- one of their local comics shops and talk with customers and employees about the comics that their reading, what they're excited about and looking forward to, and what grumblings they may have in terms of comics culture. The last such episode was published last August, right before Derek moved to Charlotte, NC...and as things would turn out, in the final days of Valhalla Games and Comics. But now that Derek has settled in his new environs, he heads over to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, his new local shop in Charlotte (at 417 Pecan Avenue), to begin once again the monthly series. So January's show kicks things off, with Derek introducing customers and shop employees to the podcast and beginning what, we hope, will be a fun and informative monthly visit. Snowy weather hit Charlotte this week, so the ice and cold cut down on traffic in the shop over the past couple of days. But several did come in and take the time to talk on show, sharing what titles they're currently reading and what they're finding exciting, and frustrating, in comics and comics-related media. For example, Isaiah, coming in for his weekly comics, shares his thoughts on recent DC Rebirth storylines and the shenanigans he sees going on at Marvel. Shop employees, Karla and Eli, talk about the some of the comics that are currently or soon-to-be adapted for television -- and Eli is particularly interested in the upcoming series based on Rick Remender's Deadly Class. And shop owner Shelton Drum comes on to discuss their recent move to a new location, next week's Charlotte Mini-Con (taking place on Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Gary Cole Center), and when we can expect to hear announcements about this summer's HeroesCon. A big THANK YOU to Karla and Shelton for helping to make this on-location show happen. And if you're in the Charlotte area, be sure to come by the shop on Wednesday, February 21, for next month's on-location recording!

For years The Comics Alternative has held a monthly on-location episode where one or two cohosts go into -- physically or virtually -- one of their local comics shops and talk with customers and employees about the comics that their reading, what they're excited about and looking forward to, and what grumblings they may have in terms of comics culture. The last such episode was published last August, right before Derek moved to Charlotte, NC...and as things would turn out, in the final days of Valhalla Games and Comics.

But now that Derek has settled in his new environs, he heads over to Heroes Aren't Hard to Find, his new local shop in Charlotte (at 417 Pecan Avenue), to begin once again the monthly series. So January's show kicks things off, with Derek introducing customers and shop employees to the podcast and beginning what, we hope, will be a fun and informative monthly visit. Snowy weather hit Charlotte this week, so the ice and cold cut down on traffic in the shop over the past couple of days. But several did come in and take the time to talk on show, sharing what titles they're currently reading and what they're finding exciting, and frustrating, in comics and comics-related media. For example, Isaiah, coming in for his weekly comics, shares his thoughts on recent DC Rebirth storylines and the shenanigans he sees going on at Marvel. Shop employees, Karla and Eli, talk about the some of the comics that are currently or soon-to-be adapted for television -- and Eli is particularly interested in the upcoming series based on Rick Remender's Deadly Class. And shop owner Shelton Drum comes on to discuss their recent move to a new location, next week's Charlotte Mini-Con (taking place on Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Gary Cole Center), and when we can expect to hear announcements about this summer's HeroesCon.

A big THANK YOU to Karla and Shelton for helping to make this on-location show happen. And if you're in the Charlotte area, be sure to come by the shop on Wednesday, February 21, for next month's on-location recording!

]]> 3430 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Seth http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-seth Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:03:27 - Setup of interview 00:06:00 - Interview with Seth 01:51:43 - Wrap up 01:52:32 - Contact us The Man from Guelph On this interview episode, Derek is pleased to have as his guest one of his favorite creators, Seth. His latest volume of Palookaville was published last year by Drawn and Quarterly, and while every release of Seth's signature series is worth noting, this one is particularly significant. It wraps up his "Clyde Fans" storyline, one he began in 1997 in Palookaville #10. Derek asks Seth about the process of undertaking this ongoing narrative and the considerations of sustaining it for twenty years. They also discuss the autobiographical "Nothing Lasts," a series that Seth began in volume 21 of Palookaville. Much of the conversation concerns Seth's autobiographical storytelling, or his faux-autobiographical comics (in the case of It's a Good Life, If You Don't Weaken), and the ways in which the past informs his sense of place and identity. Indeed, memory is a major theme in Seth's stories, and the two spend a good deal of time talking about it as a defining feature of his comics. But while much of the discussion centers on the most recent volume of Palookaville, Derek also asks his guest about the general trajectory of his career. They talk about his sketchbook comics, such as Wimbledon Green and The Great Northern Brotherhood of Canadian Cartoonists, his evolving illustration style, the creation of Dominion, the melancholy George Sprott: 1894-1975, his rubber stamp diary, his life-defining relationships with Chester Brown and Joe Matt, his design and illustration work for Fantagraphics' Complete Peanuts series and Lemony Snicket's All the Wrong Questions books, his plans for future issues of Palookaville, and his wife's business, Crown Barber Shop.   Thu, 18 Jan 2018 12:30:27 -0000 An Interview with Seth full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Man from Guelph Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:03:27 - Setup of interview 00:06:00 - Interview with Seth 01:51:43 - Wrap up 01:52:32 - Contact us The Man from Guelph On this interview episode, Derek is pleased to have as his guest one of his favorite creators, Seth. His latest volume of Palookaville was published last year by Drawn and Quarterly, and while every release of Seth's signature series is worth noting, this one is particularly significant. It wraps up his "Clyde Fans" storyline, one he began in 1997 in Palookaville #10. Derek asks Seth about the process of undertaking this ongoing narrative and the considerations of sustaining it for twenty years. They also discuss the autobiographical "Nothing Lasts," a series that Seth began in volume 21 of Palookaville. Much of the conversation concerns Seth's autobiographical storytelling, or his faux-autobiographical comics (in the case of It's a Good Life, If You Don't Weaken), and the ways in which the past informs his sense of place and identity. Indeed, memory is a major theme in Seth's stories, and the two spend a good deal of time talking about it as a defining feature of his comics. But while much of the discussion centers on the most recent volume of Palookaville, Derek also asks his guest about the general trajectory of his career. They talk about his sketchbook comics, such as Wimbledon Green and The Great Northern Brotherhood of Canadian Cartoonists, his evolving illustration style, the creation of Dominion, the melancholy George Sprott: 1894-1975, his rubber stamp diary, his life-defining relationships with Chester Brown and Joe Matt, his design and illustration work for Fantagraphics' Complete Peanuts series and Lemony Snicket's All the Wrong Questions books, his plans for future issues of Palookaville, and his wife's business, Crown Barber Shop.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:03:27 - Setup of interview
  • 00:06:00 - Interview with Seth
  • 01:51:43 - Wrap up
  • 01:52:32 - Contact us

The Man from Guelph

On this interview episode, Derek is pleased to have as his guest one of his favorite creators, Seth. His latest volume of Palookaville was published last year by Drawn and Quarterly, and while every release of Seth's signature series is worth noting, this one is particularly significant. It wraps up his "Clyde Fans" storyline, one he began in 1997 in Palookaville #10. Derek asks Seth about the process of undertaking this ongoing narrative and the considerations of sustaining it for twenty years. They also discuss the autobiographical "Nothing Lasts," a series that Seth began in volume 21 of Palookaville. Much of the conversation concerns Seth's autobiographical storytelling, or his faux-autobiographical comics (in the case of It's a Good Life, If You Don't Weaken), and the ways in which the past informs his sense of place and identity. Indeed, memory is a major theme in Seth's stories, and the two spend a good deal of time talking about it as a defining feature of his comics. But while much of the discussion centers on the most recent volume of Palookaville, Derek also asks his guest about the general trajectory of his career. They talk about his sketchbook comics, such as Wimbledon Green and The Great Northern Brotherhood of Canadian Cartoonists, his evolving illustration style, the creation of Dominion, the melancholy George Sprott: 1894-1975, his rubber stamp diary, his life-defining relationships with Chester Brown and Joe Matt, his design and illustration work for Fantagraphics' Complete Peanuts series and Lemony Snicket's All the Wrong Questions books, his plans for future issues of Palookaville, and his wife's business, Crown Barber Shop.

 ]]> 6946 no Episode 263: Reviews of Now #2, The Strumpet #5, and Barbarella # 1 & #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-263-reviews-of-now-2-the-strumpet-5-and-barbarella-1-2 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:00 - Catching up with flu-ridden Gene 00:04:21 - Now #2 00:44:07 - The Strumpet #5 01:11:49 - Barbarella #1 & #2 01:26:56 - Wrap up 01:27:55 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three recent titles, two of which are anthologies and one a blast from the past. They begin with the second issue of Fantagraphics' Now, edited by Eric Reynolds. As the guys mention, this one is comprised of various comics that run the gamut of art and narrative styles. While some of the contributions are more "traditional" in their storytelling presentation -- such as the pieces by Susan Jonaitis and Graham Chaffee, Ariel López V., Dash Shaw, and Joseph Remnant -- others challenge our understanding of the medium. Short works by Fabio Zimbres, Conxita Herrero, and James Turek are just some of the stories in this issue that experiment with how comics mediate narrative. Next, the guys turn to another anthology, The Strumpet #5. Edited by Ellen Lindner and Glynnis Fawkes, this collection was successfully Kickstarted last year, and the theme of this volume is origins. As Gene and Derek point out, this understanding of "origins" is rather broad, with some of the contributions focusing on origins of identity, origins of awareness, origins of memories, origins of myths, origins of tyrants (Donald Trump, anyone?), origins of sexuality, and origins via birth. This is a transatlantic anthology, with creators from both North America and the UK providing a diversity of story and style. Gene had been familiar with some previous issues of The Strumpet, but this was Derek's first exposure to the anthology. And he is sorry he hadn't discovered it earlier. The Two Guys with PhDs wrap up by looking at a new series from Dynamite Entertainment that brings back a classic, and controversial, figure from the 1960s. Barbarella is Mike Carey and Kenan Yarar's contemporary take on Jean-Claude Forest's legendary protagonist. The cheesecakey emphasis and the eroticism is definitely a part of this title, but Carey gives the space-traveling Barbarella more agency, making her more heroic, and less of a passive vessel, than Forest's original incarnation. The guys discuss the first two issues of the series, the second of which was just recently released, and both Derek and Gene are hooked. Wed, 17 Jan 2018 14:10:13 -0000 Reviews of Now #2, The Strumpet #5, and Barbarella # 1 & #2 full 263 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Anthologies, Origins, and Rebirths Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:00 - Catching up with flu-ridden Gene 00:04:21 - Now #2 00:44:07 - The Strumpet #5 01:11:49 - Barbarella #1 & #2 01:26:56 - Wrap up 01:27:55 - Contact us This week Gene and Derek discuss three recent titles, two of which are anthologies and one a blast from the past. They begin with the second issue of Fantagraphics' Now, edited by Eric Reynolds. As the guys mention, this one is comprised of various comics that run the gamut of art and narrative styles. While some of the contributions are more "traditional" in their storytelling presentation -- such as the pieces by Susan Jonaitis and Graham Chaffee, Ariel López V., Dash Shaw, and Joseph Remnant -- others challenge our understanding of the medium. Short works by Fabio Zimbres, Conxita Herrero, and James Turek are just some of the stories in this issue that experiment with how comics mediate narrative. Next, the guys turn to another anthology, The Strumpet #5. Edited by Ellen Lindner and Glynnis Fawkes, this collection was successfully Kickstarted last year, and the theme of this volume is origins. As Gene and Derek point out, this understanding of "origins" is rather broad, with some of the contributions focusing on origins of identity, origins of awareness, origins of memories, origins of myths, origins of tyrants (Donald Trump, anyone?), origins of sexuality, and origins via birth. This is a transatlantic anthology, with creators from both North America and the UK providing a diversity of story and style. Gene had been familiar with some previous issues of The Strumpet, but this was Derek's first exposure to the anthology. And he is sorry he hadn't discovered it earlier. The Two Guys with PhDs wrap up by looking at a new series from Dynamite Entertainment that brings back a classic, and controversial, figure from the 1960s. Barbarella is Mike Carey and Kenan Yarar's contemporary take on Jean-Claude Forest's legendary protagonist. The cheesecakey emphasis and the eroticism is definitely a part of this title, but Carey gives the space-traveling Barbarella more agency, making her more heroic, and less of a passive vessel, than Forest's original incarnation. The guys discuss the first two issues of the series, the second of which was just recently released, and both Derek and Gene are hooked. Time Codes:

This week Gene and Derek discuss three recent titles, two of which are anthologies and one a blast from the past. They begin with the second issue of Fantagraphics' Now, edited by Eric Reynolds. As the guys mention, this one is comprised of various comics that run the gamut of art and narrative styles. While some of the contributions are more "traditional" in their storytelling presentation -- such as the pieces by Susan Jonaitis and Graham Chaffee, Ariel López V., Dash Shaw, and Joseph Remnant -- others challenge our understanding of the medium. Short works by Fabio Zimbres, Conxita Herrero, and James Turek are just some of the stories in this issue that experiment with how comics mediate narrative.

Next, the guys turn to another anthology, The Strumpet #5. Edited by Ellen Lindner and Glynnis Fawkes, this collection was successfully Kickstarted last year, and the theme of this volume is origins. As Gene and Derek point out, this understanding of "origins" is rather broad, with some of the contributions focusing on origins of identity, origins of awareness, origins of memories, origins of myths, origins of tyrants (Donald Trump, anyone?), origins of sexuality, and origins via birth. This is a transatlantic anthology, with creators from both North America and the UK providing a diversity of story and style. Gene had been familiar with some previous issues of The Strumpet, but this was Derek's first exposure to the anthology. And he is sorry he hadn't discovered it earlier.

The Two Guys with PhDs wrap up by looking at a new series from Dynamite Entertainment that brings back a classic, and controversial, figure from the 1960s. Barbarella is Mike Carey and Kenan Yarar's contemporary take on Jean-Claude Forest's legendary protagonist. The cheesecakey emphasis and the eroticism is definitely a part of this title, but Carey gives the space-traveling Barbarella more agency, making her more heroic, and less of a passive vessel, than Forest's original incarnation. The guys discuss the first two issues of the series, the second of which was just recently released, and both Derek and Gene are hooked.

]]> 5547 no Comics Alternative Interviews: W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-w-maxwell-prince-and-martn-morazzo Time Codes: 00:27 - Introduction 02:43 - Setup of interview 04:32 - Interview with W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo 59:10 - Wrap up 59:50 - Contact us On this episode of the interview series, Derek talks with W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo about their new series from Image Comics, Ice Cream Man. The first issue comes out on January 17, and Derek asks his guests about the genesis of this project and what to expect in its debut. As Will and Martín reveal, each issue of Ice Cream Man is a stand-alone story, with every release serving as a viable jumping on point into their uncanny world. In fact, both creators liken the title to Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone, a series of stories that aren't connected one to the other, but linked through tone and narration. What binds the individual issues together will be the ice cream man himself, peddling his frozen treats in a small suburban community and witness to -- or instigator of? -- various macabre events that turns lives upside down. The series' inaugural issue revolves around a deadly Brazilian spider, a young boy forced to live on his own, and a police detective whose professional ennui is violently shaken. This promises to be a very different kind of comic-book series, one that may not be as soft and creamy as its title suggests. Tue, 16 Jan 2018 13:42:01 -0000 An interview with W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Lickety Split Time Codes: 00:27 - Introduction 02:43 - Setup of interview 04:32 - Interview with W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo 59:10 - Wrap up 59:50 - Contact us On this episode of the interview series, Derek talks with W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo about their new series from Image Comics, Ice Cream Man. The first issue comes out on January 17, and Derek asks his guests about the genesis of this project and what to expect in its debut. As Will and Martín reveal, each issue of Ice Cream Man is a stand-alone story, with every release serving as a viable jumping on point into their uncanny world. In fact, both creators liken the title to Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone, a series of stories that aren't connected one to the other, but linked through tone and narration. What binds the individual issues together will be the ice cream man himself, peddling his frozen treats in a small suburban community and witness to -- or instigator of? -- various macabre events that turns lives upside down. The series' inaugural issue revolves around a deadly Brazilian spider, a young boy forced to live on his own, and a police detective whose professional ennui is violently shaken. This promises to be a very different kind of comic-book series, one that may not be as soft and creamy as its title suggests. Time Codes:

On this episode of the interview series, Derek talks with W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo about their new series from Image Comics, Ice Cream Man. The first issue comes out on January 17, and Derek asks his guests about the genesis of this project and what to expect in its debut. As Will and Martín reveal, each issue of Ice Cream Man is a stand-alone story, with every release serving as a viable jumping on point into their uncanny world. In fact, both creators liken the title to Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone, a series of stories that aren't connected one to the other, but linked through tone and narration. What binds the individual issues together will be the ice cream man himself, peddling his frozen treats in a small suburban community and witness to -- or instigator of? -- various macabre events that turns lives upside down. The series' inaugural issue revolves around a deadly Brazilian spider, a young boy forced to live on his own, and a police detective whose professional ennui is violently shaken. This promises to be a very different kind of comic-book series, one that may not be as soft and creamy as its title suggests.

]]> 3770 no Episode 262: Review of The Best American Comics 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-262-review-of-the-best-american-comics-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Better late than never 00:05:42 - The Best American Comics 2017 01:30:43 - Wrap up 01:32:15 - Contact us On this episode of the podcast Paul and Derek discuss The Best American Comics 2017, edited by Ben Katchor along with series editor Bill Kartalopoulos. The Two Guys usually discuss Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's annual contribution to comicsdom in the penultimate episode of every year, but this time around life got in the way -- and Paul, everyone's heart goes out to you -- so they had to postpone slightly the current show. But better late than never! As Paul and Derek reveal, this has to be the most experimental volume of The Best American Comics we've ever seen. Editor Ben Katchor does his best to challenge our understanding and definition of "comics" and to interrogate the very concept of "best." In fact, you could call these efforts provocative. This most recent anthology is attuned to the current political environment, and this is perhaps best demonstrated in Katchor's multifaceted and hilarious introduction, as well as Kartalopoulos's insightful Foreword. The contributions themselves are perhaps the most fascinating, and definitely the most varied, of any The Best American Comics volume.  There are many names that would be recognizable to listeners of the podcast -- e.g., Kim Deitch, Tim Lane, Gabrielle Bell, Ed Piskor, Joe Sacco, Josh Bayer, Michael DeForge, and Sam Alden -- but what marks this annual is the sheer number of contributors that neither Derek nor Paul had previously known. Indeed, at least a good half of this collection is comprised of creators never before discussed on the podcast, and it's exciting to discover this many new artists. To say the least, this is the most engaging, and the most challenging, volume of The Best American Comics to date.   Mon, 15 Jan 2018 12:29:43 -0000 A Review of The Best American Comics 2017 full 262 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Provocation Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Better late than never 00:05:42 - The Best American Comics 2017 01:30:43 - Wrap up 01:32:15 - Contact us On this episode of the podcast Paul and Derek discuss The Best American Comics 2017, edited by Ben Katchor along with series editor Bill Kartalopoulos. The Two Guys usually discuss Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's annual contribution to comicsdom in the penultimate episode of every year, but this time around life got in the way -- and Paul, everyone's heart goes out to you -- so they had to postpone slightly the current show. But better late than never! As Paul and Derek reveal, this has to be the most experimental volume of The Best American Comics we've ever seen. Editor Ben Katchor does his best to challenge our understanding and definition of "comics" and to interrogate the very concept of "best." In fact, you could call these efforts provocative. This most recent anthology is attuned to the current political environment, and this is perhaps best demonstrated in Katchor's multifaceted and hilarious introduction, as well as Kartalopoulos's insightful Foreword. The contributions themselves are perhaps the most fascinating, and definitely the most varied, of any The Best American Comics volume.  There are many names that would be recognizable to listeners of the podcast -- e.g., Kim Deitch, Tim Lane, Gabrielle Bell, Ed Piskor, Joe Sacco, Josh Bayer, Michael DeForge, and Sam Alden -- but what marks this annual is the sheer number of contributors that neither Derek nor Paul had previously known. Indeed, at least a good half of this collection is comprised of creators never before discussed on the podcast, and it's exciting to discover this many new artists. To say the least, this is the most engaging, and the most challenging, volume of The Best American Comics to date.   Time Codes:

On this episode of the podcast Paul and Derek discuss The Best American Comics 2017, edited by Ben Katchor along with series editor Bill Kartalopoulos. The Two Guys usually discuss Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's annual contribution to comicsdom in the penultimate episode of every year, but this time around life got in the way -- and Paul, everyone's heart goes out to you -- so they had to postpone slightly the current show. But better late than never!

As Paul and Derek reveal, this has to be the most experimental volume of The Best American Comics we've ever seen. Editor Ben Katchor does his best to challenge our understanding and definition of "comics" and to interrogate the very concept of "best." In fact, you could call these efforts provocative. This most recent anthology is attuned to the current political environment, and this is perhaps best demonstrated in Katchor's multifaceted and hilarious introduction, as well as Kartalopoulos's insightful Foreword.

The contributions themselves are perhaps the most fascinating, and definitely the most varied, of any The Best American Comics volume.  There are many names that would be recognizable to listeners of the podcast -- e.g., Kim Deitch, Tim Lane, Gabrielle Bell, Ed Piskor, Joe Sacco, Josh Bayer, Michael DeForge, and Sam Alden -- but what marks this annual is the sheer number of contributors that neither Derek nor Paul had previously known. Indeed, at least a good half of this collection is comprised of creators never before discussed on the podcast, and it's exciting to discover this many new artists. To say the least, this is the most engaging, and the most challenging, volume of The Best American Comics to date.

 

]]> 5729 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Loan from the Girl Zone http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-loan-from-the-girl-zone For this week's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Ari S. Mulch about her project Loan from the Girl Zone. This a collection of the various minicomics that Ari has published over the past couple of years while studying in the comics program of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. She talks with Derek about the various short works collected in this volume, the project's genesis, and the various reward levels for backing her campaign. But Ari also discusses the long-form comic that she currently has underway, Lucritia's Midlife Crisis. The stories you'll find in Lone from the Girl Zone will include: "Angie Has a Bad Day" "Selfish" "Cicadidae" (Unreleased!) "Coming Back to You" "2 Girls and a Caricature" "I Found God in the Mosh Pit" (originally a limited edition hand printed book) "Fat Bitch Nudes" Check it out, and be sure to learn more about Lone in the Girl Zone! Sample Art Sat, 13 Jan 2018 13:34:00 -0000 Kickstarting Loan from the Girl Zone full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Good Stuff from Minneapolis For this week's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Ari S. Mulch about her project Loan from the Girl Zone. This a collection of the various minicomics that Ari has published over the past couple of years while studying in the comics program of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. She talks with Derek about the various short works collected in this volume, the project's genesis, and the various reward levels for backing her campaign. But Ari also discusses the long-form comic that she currently has underway, Lucritia's Midlife Crisis. The stories you'll find in Lone from the Girl Zone will include: "Angie Has a Bad Day" "Selfish" "Cicadidae" (Unreleased!) "Coming Back to You" "2 Girls and a Caricature" "I Found God in the Mosh Pit" (originally a limited edition hand printed book) "Fat Bitch Nudes" Check it out, and be sure to learn more about Lone in the Girl Zone! Sample Art

For this week's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Ari S. Mulch about her project Loan from the Girl Zone. This a collection of the various minicomics that Ari has published over the past couple of years while studying in the comics program of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. She talks with Derek about the various short works collected in this volume, the project's genesis, and the various reward levels for backing her campaign. But Ari also discusses the long-form comic that she currently has underway, Lucritia's Midlife Crisis.

The stories you'll find in Lone from the Girl Zone will include:

  • "Angie Has a Bad Day"
  • "Selfish"
  • "Cicadidae" (Unreleased!)
  • "Coming Back to You"
  • "2 Girls and a Caricature"
  • "I Found God in the Mosh Pit" (originally a limited edition hand printed book)
  • "Fat Bitch Nudes"

Check it out, and be sure to learn more about Lone in the Girl Zone!

Sample Art

]]> 1058 no Episode 261: Reviews of Generation Gone, Vol. 1, Assassinistas #1, and Love and Rockets IV #4 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-261-reviews-of-generation-gone-vol-1-assassinistas-1-and-love-and-rockets-iv-4 Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:03:04 - Baby, it's cold outside 00:05:38 - Generation Gone, Vol. 1 00:37:45 - Assassinistas #1 00:55:04 - Love and Rockets IV #4 01:20:02 - Wrap up 01:21:16 - Contact us This week Gwen and Derek take a look at three recent and exciting titles. They begin with the first trade collection of Aleš Kot and André Lima Araújo's Generation Gone (Image Comics). This initial volume establishes the premise of the intriguing series. The story focuses on three hackers who attempt to get into government systems, are discovered, and "infected" with genetic codes that give them supernatural powers. Gwen points out that, in some ways, this narrative is reminiscent of Katsuhiro Otomo’s Akira, although as Derek mentions, Kot and Araújo's world isn't anything post-apocalyptic. This first volume introduces what promises to be an engaging series and whets readers' appetites for what may follow. Next, the Two People with PhDs Talking about Comics turn to the first of two Hernandez-infused comics covered this week. The first is Gilbert Hernandez and Tini Howard's Assassinistas #1, part of IDW Publications' and Shelly Bond's Black Crown imprint. The debut issue introduces us to three former assassins, two of which -- at least as far as we know -- have left that life and are attempting to "go legitimate" and live a normal life. However, drama erupts when one of the team, Charlotte “Scarlet” La Costa, has her son kidnapped, bringing another team member, Octavia “Red October” Price, back into a life she thought she had left behind her. And what of the third member of this one-time trio, Rosalyn “Blood” Diamond?  Both of the cohosts enjoyed this title, although the paratextual material in the back of this issue, commentary from editor Shelly Bond, is a bit conspicuous and doesn't add much. Finally, Derek and Gwen wrap up by discussing the latest issue of Love and Rockets IV (Fantagraphics). This fourth issue picks up with the various storylines that both Jaime and Gilbert Hernandez have established going back to the previous Love and Rockets annuals. For Jaime, this means continuing the Princess Animus and Isle narratives, as well as giving us glimpses into both Maggie's and Hopey's pasts growing up in Hoppers. And then there's Derek's favorite part of this issue, a two-page focus on Ray that follows up on the events in The Love Bunglers. Gilbert's contributions gives us a brief glimpse into Killer's career choices, but there is also a Pipo storyline where this foundational character tries to come to terms with a relationship she once had in Palomar. In fact, in extended flashbacks, we're taken back to "classic" Palomar and characters we haven't seen for quite a while. But as Derek points out, one of the most striking things about this issue is that we see little of Fritz...and no mention at all of any Fritz imitators. A rarity in recent Love and Rockets issues! Wed, 10 Jan 2018 12:31:23 -0000 Reviews of Generation Gone Vol. 1, Assassinistas #1, and Love and Rockets IV #4 full 261 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hackers, Assassins, and Locas Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:03:04 - Baby, it's cold outside 00:05:38 - Generation Gone, Vol. 1 00:37:45 - Assassinistas #1 00:55:04 - Love and Rockets IV #4 01:20:02 - Wrap up 01:21:16 - Contact us This week Gwen and Derek take a look at three recent and exciting titles. They begin with the first trade collection of Aleš Kot and André Lima Araújo's Generation Gone (Image Comics). This initial volume establishes the premise of the intriguing series. The story focuses on three hackers who attempt to get into government systems, are discovered, and "infected" with genetic codes that give them supernatural powers. Gwen points out that, in some ways, this narrative is reminiscent of Katsuhiro Otomo’s Akira, although as Derek mentions, Kot and Araújo's world isn't anything post-apocalyptic. This first volume introduces what promises to be an engaging series and whets readers' appetites for what may follow. Next, the Two People with PhDs Talking about Comics turn to the first of two Hernandez-infused comics covered this week. The first is Gilbert Hernandez and Tini Howard's Assassinistas #1, part of IDW Publications' and Shelly Bond's Black Crown imprint. The debut issue introduces us to three former assassins, two of which -- at least as far as we know -- have left that life and are attempting to "go legitimate" and live a normal life. However, drama erupts when one of the team, Charlotte “Scarlet” La Costa, has her son kidnapped, bringing another team member, Octavia “Red October” Price, back into a life she thought she had left behind her. And what of the third member of this one-time trio, Rosalyn “Blood” Diamond?  Both of the cohosts enjoyed this title, although the paratextual material in the back of this issue, commentary from editor Shelly Bond, is a bit conspicuous and doesn't add much. Finally, Derek and Gwen wrap up by discussing the latest issue of Love and Rockets IV (Fantagraphics). This fourth issue picks up with the various storylines that both Jaime and Gilbert Hernandez have established going back to the previous Love and Rockets annuals. For Jaime, this means continuing the Princess Animus and Isle narratives, as well as giving us glimpses into both Maggie's and Hopey's pasts growing up in Hoppers. And then there's Derek's favorite part of this issue, a two-page focus on Ray that follows up on the events in The Love Bunglers. Gilbert's contributions gives us a brief glimpse into Killer's career choices, but there is also a Pipo storyline where this foundational character tries to come to terms with a relationship she once had in Palomar. In fact, in extended flashbacks, we're taken back to "classic" Palomar and characters we haven't seen for quite a while. But as Derek points out, one of the most striking things about this issue is that we see little of Fritz...and no mention at all of any Fritz imitators. A rarity in recent Love and Rockets issues! Time Codes:

This week Gwen and Derek take a look at three recent and exciting titles. They begin with the first trade collection of Aleš Kot and André Lima Araújo's Generation Gone (Image Comics). This initial volume establishes the premise of the intriguing series. The story focuses on three hackers who attempt to get into government systems, are discovered, and "infected" with genetic codes that give them supernatural powers. Gwen points out that, in some ways, this narrative is reminiscent of Katsuhiro Otomo’s Akira, although as Derek mentions, Kot and Araújo's world isn't anything post-apocalyptic. This first volume introduces what promises to be an engaging series and whets readers' appetites for what may follow.

Next, the Two People with PhDs Talking about Comics turn to the first of two Hernandez-infused comics covered this week. The first is Gilbert Hernandez and Tini Howard's Assassinistas #1, part of IDW Publications' and Shelly Bond's Black Crown imprint. The debut issue introduces us to three former assassins, two of which -- at least as far as we know -- have left that life and are attempting to "go legitimate" and live a normal life. However, drama erupts when one of the team, Charlotte “Scarlet” La Costa, has her son kidnapped, bringing another team member, Octavia “Red October” Price, back into a life she thought she had left behind her. And what of the third member of this one-time trio, Rosalyn “Blood” Diamond?  Both of the cohosts enjoyed this title, although the paratextual material in the back of this issue, commentary from editor Shelly Bond, is a bit conspicuous and doesn't add much.

Finally, Derek and Gwen wrap up by discussing the latest issue of Love and Rockets IV (Fantagraphics). This fourth issue picks up with the various storylines that both Jaime and Gilbert Hernandez have established going back to the previous Love and Rockets annuals. For Jaime, this means continuing the Princess Animus and Isle narratives, as well as giving us glimpses into both Maggie's and Hopey's pasts growing up in Hoppers. And then there's Derek's favorite part of this issue, a two-page focus on Ray that follows up on the events in The Love Bunglers. Gilbert's contributions gives us a brief glimpse into Killer's career choices, but there is also a Pipo storyline where this foundational character tries to come to terms with a relationship she once had in Palomar. In fact, in extended flashbacks, we're taken back to "classic" Palomar and characters we haven't seen for quite a while. But as Derek points out, one of the most striking things about this issue is that we see little of Fritz...and no mention at all of any Fritz imitators. A rarity in recent Love and Rockets issues!

]]> 5088 no Webcomics: Reviews of The Shaderunners, Binary Star, and Nautilus http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-shaderunners-binary-star-and-nautilus Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:05 - A new year in webcomics! 00:06:36 - The Shaderunners 00:38:16 - Binary Star 01:01:30 - Nautilus 01:24:50 - Wrap up 01:26:12 - Contact us For their first webcomics episode of 2018, Sean and Derek discuss three fascinating and diverse titles. They begin with The Shaderunners, written by Lin with art by Capp (AKA Anna Assan). This Prohibition era-tinged webcomic concerns a group of rag-tag bohemians who attempt to bring color into their sepia-toned world. While this looks like a narrative set in early twentieth-century America, the storyworld that Capp and Lin create is actually a fantastical one. Next, the guys turn to a science fiction title, Jamie Primack's Binary Star. The protagonist of this story, Zaki, is a bounty hunter out to capture a big payoff, and in the process, ends up growing close to and working with her target. And there's quite a bit of humor. As Derek suggests, Binary Star is reminiscent of Midnight Run, yet set in a sci-fi world. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Jape's Nautilus. In it, the creator, whose real name is JT Trostle, reveals what happened after the passing of his mother and how he managed her affairs in the wake of her death. The mother, Connie, was a hoarder, and the webcomic provides a empathic look at the challenges and frustrations surrounding Connie's behavior and JT's efforts to "clean up" after her. Mon, 08 Jan 2018 13:04:09 -0000 Reviews of the webcomics The Shaderunners, Binary Star, and Nautilus full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fun Webcomics for the New Year Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:05 - A new year in webcomics! 00:06:36 - The Shaderunners 00:38:16 - Binary Star 01:01:30 - Nautilus 01:24:50 - Wrap up 01:26:12 - Contact us For their first webcomics episode of 2018, Sean and Derek discuss three fascinating and diverse titles. They begin with The Shaderunners, written by Lin with art by Capp (AKA Anna Assan). This Prohibition era-tinged webcomic concerns a group of rag-tag bohemians who attempt to bring color into their sepia-toned world. While this looks like a narrative set in early twentieth-century America, the storyworld that Capp and Lin create is actually a fantastical one. Next, the guys turn to a science fiction title, Jamie Primack's Binary Star. The protagonist of this story, Zaki, is a bounty hunter out to capture a big payoff, and in the process, ends up growing close to and working with her target. And there's quite a bit of humor. As Derek suggests, Binary Star is reminiscent of Midnight Run, yet set in a sci-fi world. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Jape's Nautilus. In it, the creator, whose real name is JT Trostle, reveals what happened after the passing of his mother and how he managed her affairs in the wake of her death. The mother, Connie, was a hoarder, and the webcomic provides a empathic look at the challenges and frustrations surrounding Connie's behavior and JT's efforts to "clean up" after her. Time Codes:

For their first webcomics episode of 2018, Sean and Derek discuss three fascinating and diverse titles. They begin with The Shaderunners, written by Lin with art by Capp (AKA Anna Assan). This Prohibition era-tinged webcomic concerns a group of rag-tag bohemians who attempt to bring color into their sepia-toned world. While this looks like a narrative set in early twentieth-century America, the storyworld that Capp and Lin create is actually a fantastical one. Next, the guys turn to a science fiction title, Jamie Primack's Binary Star. The protagonist of this story, Zaki, is a bounty hunter out to capture a big payoff, and in the process, ends up growing close to and working with her target. And there's quite a bit of humor. As Derek suggests, Binary Star is reminiscent of Midnight Run, yet set in a sci-fi world. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Jape's Nautilus. In it, the creator, whose real name is JT Trostle, reveals what happened after the passing of his mother and how he managed her affairs in the wake of her death. The mother, Connie, was a hoarder, and the webcomic provides a empathic look at the challenges and frustrations surrounding Connie's behavior and JT's efforts to "clean up" after her.

]]> 5397 no Episode 260: The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-260-the-january-previews-catalog Happy New Year from The Comics Alternative! To help bring in 2018, Gwen and Derek are back to meticulously go through the January Previews catalog, providing recommendations and insights on a variety of upcoming titles. This month's catalog is jam-packed with great solicits, so many, in fact, that this becomes an extra-long episode. They begin by looking at the various offerings announced for this year's Free Comic Book Day, and then they move on to the catalog proper. Among the many comic books and graphic novels that Gwen and Derek highlight are: Dark Horse Comics - American Gods: My Ainsel #1, Joe Golem: Occult Detective, Vol. 2 - The Outer Dark, Milk and Cheese: Dairy Products Gone Bad, Beasts of Burden: Animal Rites, The Battles of Bridget Lee, Vol. 2 - The Miracle Child, and Rocket Robinson and the Pharaoh's Fortune DC/Vertigo - Eternity Girl #1, Shade the Changing Woman #1, Global Frequency: Deluxe Edition, and The American Way: Those Above and Those Below IDW Publishing - Four Sisters, Vol. 1: Enid, A Strange and Beautiful Sound, Super Patriotic Heroes, and Ward's Valley Image Comics - Gideon Falls #1, Oblivion Song #1, Dry County #1, Infidel #1, and Prism Stalker #1 Abstract Studios - Motor Girl Omnibus Abrams ComicArts - Bizarre Romance Aftershock Comics - Shock Anthology Archie Comics - Vampironica #1 Avery Hill Publishing - I Love This Part BOOM! Studios - Lucy Dreaming #1, Dodge City #1, Nuclear Winter, Vol. 1, Dodo, Persephone, and Misfit City, Vol. 2 Cinebook - Alone, Vol. 8: The Arena, Valerian and Laureline, Vol. 22: Memories from the Future, and Trent, Vol. 2: The Kid Conundrum Press - BDQ: Essays and Interviews on Quebec Comics Dynamite Entertainment - The Green Hornet '66 Meets The Spirit Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #22, From Lone Mountain, and Von Spatz Fantagraphics Books - Mudbite, Love & Rockets, Vol. IV #5, We Ate Wonder Bread, Land of the Sons, and Real Deal #8 First Second - Brazen, New Shoes, Science Comics: Robots and Drones, and Secret Coders, Vol. 5: Potions and Parameters Graphix - Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set Humanoids - Exo Lion Forge - Puerto Rico Strong and The Lost Path NBM - The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs and The True Death of Billy the Kid Nobrow Press - Dalston Monsterzz Oni Press - The Ballad of Sang #1, Spectacle, Book 1, and Oh Joy Sex Toy, Vol. 1 Titan Comics - Sea of Thieves #1, Fighting American: The Ties that Bind #1, Quarry's War, and Minky Woodcock: The Girl Who Handcuffed Houdini Toon Books/Toon Graphics - Snails Are Just My Speed and The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America Vertical Comics - City, Vol. 1 VIZ Media - Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War, Vol. 1 Wed, 03 Jan 2018 15:50:42 -0000 A Look at the January 2018 Previews Catalog full 260 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Panda Issue? Happy New Year from The Comics Alternative! To help bring in 2018, Gwen and Derek are back to meticulously go through the January Previews catalog, providing recommendations and insights on a variety of upcoming titles. This month's catalog is jam-packed with great solicits, so many, in fact, that this becomes an extra-long episode. They begin by looking at the various offerings announced for this year's Free Comic Book Day, and then they move on to the catalog proper. Among the many comic books and graphic novels that Gwen and Derek highlight are: Dark Horse Comics - American Gods: My Ainsel #1, Joe Golem: Occult Detective, Vol. 2 - The Outer Dark, Milk and Cheese: Dairy Products Gone Bad, Beasts of Burden: Animal Rites, The Battles of Bridget Lee, Vol. 2 - The Miracle Child, and Rocket Robinson and the Pharaoh's Fortune DC/Vertigo - Eternity Girl #1, Shade the Changing Woman #1, Global Frequency: Deluxe Edition, and The American Way: Those Above and Those Below IDW Publishing - Four Sisters, Vol. 1: Enid, A Strange and Beautiful Sound, Super Patriotic Heroes, and Ward's Valley Image Comics - Gideon Falls #1, Oblivion Song #1, Dry County #1, Infidel #1, and Prism Stalker #1 Abstract Studios - Motor Girl Omnibus Abrams ComicArts - Bizarre Romance Aftershock Comics - Shock Anthology Archie Comics - Vampironica #1 Avery Hill Publishing - I Love This Part BOOM! Studios - Lucy Dreaming #1, Dodge City #1, Nuclear Winter, Vol. 1, Dodo, Persephone, and Misfit City, Vol. 2 Cinebook - Alone, Vol. 8: The Arena, Valerian and Laureline, Vol. 22: Memories from the Future, and Trent, Vol. 2: The Kid Conundrum Press - BDQ: Essays and Interviews on Quebec Comics Dynamite Entertainment - The Green Hornet '66 Meets The Spirit Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #22, From Lone Mountain, and Von Spatz Fantagraphics Books - Mudbite, Love & Rockets, Vol. IV #5, We Ate Wonder Bread, Land of the Sons, and Real Deal #8 First Second - Brazen, New Shoes, Science Comics: Robots and Drones, and Secret Coders, Vol. 5: Potions and Parameters Graphix - Raina Telgemeier Collection Box Set Humanoids - Exo Lion Forge - Puerto Rico Strong and The Lost Path NBM - The Initiates: A Comic Artist and a Wine Artisan Exchange Jobs and The True Death of Billy the Kid Nobrow Press - Dalston Monsterzz Oni Press - The Ballad of Sang #1, Spectacle, Book 1, and Oh Joy Sex Toy, Vol. 1 Titan Comics - Sea of Thieves #1, Fighting American: The Ties that Bind #1, Quarry's War, and Minky Woodcock: The Girl Who Handcuffed Houdini Toon Books/Toon Graphics - Snails Are Just My Speed and The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America Vertical Comics - City, Vol. 1 VIZ Media - Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War, Vol. 1

Happy New Year from The Comics Alternative! To help bring in 2018, Gwen and Derek are back to meticulously go through the January Previews catalog, providing recommendations and insights on a variety of upcoming titles. This month's catalog is jam-packed with great solicits, so many, in fact, that this becomes an extra-long episode. They begin by looking at the various offerings announced for this year's Free Comic Book Day, and then they move on to the catalog proper. Among the many comic books and graphic novels that Gwen and Derek highlight are:

]]> 7439 no Manga: Reviews of Battle Angel Alita: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 and Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-battle-angel-alita-deluxe-edition-vol-1-and-children-of-the-whales-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:35 - Some context, and thanks! 00:05:19 - Battle Angel Alita: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 00:50:09 - Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 01:26:06 - Wrap up 01:27:21 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two recent publications that, in one way or another, explore a post-apocalyptic world. They begin with a classic, the first volume of Yukito Kishiro's Battle Angel Alita. Kodansha Comics has recently started to release this legendary cyberpunk series in nice deluxe hardbound editions -- the second deluxe volume is due for release in late February -- and the guys are excited that the title is back in print. Neither Shea nor Derek was familiar with Battle Angel Alita before, outside of hearing about the upcoming James Cameron/Robert Rodriguez film adaptation due out in 2018, but now both are hooked. In their overview, the guys highlight the kinetic quality of the illustrations, the ways in which Kishiro contextualizes even his most nasty characters, the complexities (and embedded mysteries) of his storyworld, and the ways in which he visualizes the title character...which, for Shea at least, is a little problematic. Next, they look at Abi Umeda's Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 (VIZ Media). This is another post-apocalyptic narrative -- at least the guys think things are set in a post-apocalyptic world -- and the storyworld that Umeda maps out is quite complex. In fact, as Derek suggests, there are so many nuances in this first volume that the story runs the risk of toppling over due to sheer ambiguity. However, the author is able to maintain a comprehendible balance in her tale, although several passages may require more than one reading. There are a lot of questions posed in this book, and while Derek is willing to continue on in future volumes to get the fuller picture, Shea isn't as enamored of the story. While he admires Umeda's art, he feels that the story's premise, especially as it relates to the Committee of Elders, may be a bit too predictable. Still, Derek feel that the volume is worth checking out. Tue, 02 Jan 2018 13:55:01 -0000 Reviews of Battle Angel Alita: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 and Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Post-Apocalyptic Takes Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:35 - Some context, and thanks! 00:05:19 - Battle Angel Alita: Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 00:50:09 - Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 01:26:06 - Wrap up 01:27:21 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two recent publications that, in one way or another, explore a post-apocalyptic world. They begin with a classic, the first volume of Yukito Kishiro's Battle Angel Alita. Kodansha Comics has recently started to release this legendary cyberpunk series in nice deluxe hardbound editions -- the second deluxe volume is due for release in late February -- and the guys are excited that the title is back in print. Neither Shea nor Derek was familiar with Battle Angel Alita before, outside of hearing about the upcoming James Cameron/Robert Rodriguez film adaptation due out in 2018, but now both are hooked. In their overview, the guys highlight the kinetic quality of the illustrations, the ways in which Kishiro contextualizes even his most nasty characters, the complexities (and embedded mysteries) of his storyworld, and the ways in which he visualizes the title character...which, for Shea at least, is a little problematic. Next, they look at Abi Umeda's Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 (VIZ Media). This is another post-apocalyptic narrative -- at least the guys think things are set in a post-apocalyptic world -- and the storyworld that Umeda maps out is quite complex. In fact, as Derek suggests, there are so many nuances in this first volume that the story runs the risk of toppling over due to sheer ambiguity. However, the author is able to maintain a comprehendible balance in her tale, although several passages may require more than one reading. There are a lot of questions posed in this book, and while Derek is willing to continue on in future volumes to get the fuller picture, Shea isn't as enamored of the story. While he admires Umeda's art, he feels that the story's premise, especially as it relates to the Committee of Elders, may be a bit too predictable. Still, Derek feel that the volume is worth checking out. Time Codes:

On this episode of The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two recent publications that, in one way or another, explore a post-apocalyptic world. They begin with a classic, the first volume of Yukito Kishiro's Battle Angel Alita. Kodansha Comics has recently started to release this legendary cyberpunk series in nice deluxe hardbound editions -- the second deluxe volume is due for release in late February -- and the guys are excited that the title is back in print. Neither Shea nor Derek was familiar with Battle Angel Alita before, outside of hearing about the upcoming James Cameron/Robert Rodriguez film adaptation due out in 2018, but now both are hooked. In their overview, the guys highlight the kinetic quality of the illustrations, the ways in which Kishiro contextualizes even his most nasty characters, the complexities (and embedded mysteries) of his storyworld, and the ways in which he visualizes the title character...which, for Shea at least, is a little problematic.

Next, they look at Abi Umeda's Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 (VIZ Media). This is another post-apocalyptic narrative -- at least the guys think things are set in a post-apocalyptic world -- and the storyworld that Umeda maps out is quite complex. In fact, as Derek suggests, there are so many nuances in this first volume that the story runs the risk of toppling over due to sheer ambiguity. However, the author is able to maintain a comprehendible balance in her tale, although several passages may require more than one reading. There are a lot of questions posed in this book, and while Derek is willing to continue on in future volumes to get the fuller picture, Shea isn't as enamored of the story. While he admires Umeda's art, he feels that the story's premise, especially as it relates to the Committee of Elders, may be a bit too predictable. Still, Derek feel that the volume is worth checking out.

]]> 5479 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Another Happy New Yoe with Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-another-happy-new-yoe-with-craig-yoe Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:12 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Craig Yoe 02:01:22 - Wrap up 02:02:17 - Contact us Welcome to 2018! And as The Comics Alternative has done for the past several years, they start off the new year with an interview of perennial   favorite of the podcast, Craig Yoe. These are called the annual Happy New Yoe shows. And this year, Derek talks with Craig about Yoe Books past, present, and future. They start off by discussing many of the books that Craig and his wife/partner, Clizia Gussoni, released in 2017. These include those published through Yoe Books/IDW Publishing -- e.g., Mummies!: Classic Monsters of Pre-Code Horror Comics; Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-off, Satire Magazines; Haunted Love Vol. 1; The Complete Voodoo Vol. 3; Jay Disbrow's Monster Invasion; and volumes of both Haunted Horror and Weird Love -- but also works that Craig published elsewhere, such as his book for younger readers, LOL: A Load of Laughs and Jokes for Kids, published through Little Simon.  After that, Craig fields several questions asked by fans via Facebook...some sensible, others rather wacky. That eventually leads them into a discussion of books from Craig we have to look forward to in 2018. Among the various upcoming titles they discuss are We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True, Lou Cameron's Unsleeping Dead, Drawing and Life Lessons from Master Cartoonists, Super Patriotic Heroes, and Reefer Madness. This is an extra long interview, running for almost two hours, and there's a lot packed into the conversation. Plenty to help carry listeners comfortably into the new year! Mon, 01 Jan 2018 16:02:47 -0000 Another Interview with Craig Yoe for the Annual Happy New Yoe Show full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Just Say Yoe! Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:12 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Craig Yoe 02:01:22 - Wrap up 02:02:17 - Contact us Welcome to 2018! And as The Comics Alternative has done for the past several years, they start off the new year with an interview of perennial   favorite of the podcast, Craig Yoe. These are called the annual Happy New Yoe shows. And this year, Derek talks with Craig about Yoe Books past, present, and future. They start off by discussing many of the books that Craig and his wife/partner, Clizia Gussoni, released in 2017. These include those published through Yoe Books/IDW Publishing -- e.g., Mummies!: Classic Monsters of Pre-Code Horror Comics; Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-off, Satire Magazines; Haunted Love Vol. 1; The Complete Voodoo Vol. 3; Jay Disbrow's Monster Invasion; and volumes of both Haunted Horror and Weird Love -- but also works that Craig published elsewhere, such as his book for younger readers, LOL: A Load of Laughs and Jokes for Kids, published through Little Simon.  After that, Craig fields several questions asked by fans via Facebook...some sensible, others rather wacky. That eventually leads them into a discussion of books from Craig we have to look forward to in 2018. Among the various upcoming titles they discuss are We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True, Lou Cameron's Unsleeping Dead, Drawing and Life Lessons from Master Cartoonists, Super Patriotic Heroes, and Reefer Madness. This is an extra long interview, running for almost two hours, and there's a lot packed into the conversation. Plenty to help carry listeners comfortably into the new year! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:12 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:56 - Interview with Craig Yoe
  • 02:01:22 - Wrap up
  • 02:02:17 - Contact us

Welcome to 2018! And as The Comics Alternative has done for the past several years, they start off the new year with an interview of perennial   favorite of the podcast, Craig Yoe. These are called the annual Happy New Yoe shows. And this year, Derek talks with Craig about Yoe Books past, present, and future. They start off by discussing many of the books that Craig and his wife/partner, Clizia Gussoni, released in 2017. These include those published through Yoe Books/IDW Publishing -- e.g., Mummies!: Classic Monsters of Pre-Code Horror Comics; Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-off, Satire Magazines; Haunted Love Vol. 1; The Complete Voodoo Vol. 3; Jay Disbrow's Monster Invasion; and volumes of both Haunted Horror and Weird Love -- but also works that Craig published elsewhere, such as his book for younger readers, LOL: A Load of Laughs and Jokes for Kids, published through Little Simon. 

After that, Craig fields several questions asked by fans via Facebook...some sensible, others rather wacky. That eventually leads them into a discussion of books from Craig we have to look forward to in 2018. Among the various upcoming titles they discuss are We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True, Lou Cameron's Unsleeping Dead, Drawing and Life Lessons from Master Cartoonists, Super Patriotic Heroes, and Reefer Madness. This is an extra long interview, running for almost two hours, and there's a lot packed into the conversation. Plenty to help carry listeners comfortably into the new year!

]]> 7522 no Young Readers: Reviews of Good Night, Planet, The Dam Keeper, and Misfit City, as Well as a Look Back at 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-good-night-planet-the-dam-keeper-and-misfit-city-as-well-as-a-look-back-at-2017 Time Codes: 00:31 - Introduction 03:51 - Greetings and apologies 05:36 - Good Night, Planet 13:15 - The Dam Keeper 24:59 - Misfit City 39:30 - A look back at 2017 in young reader comics 56:56 - Wrap up 57:25 - Contact us It's the end of the year, and for their December episode of the Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss three exciting titles as well look back at the past year's releases. They begin by discussing Liniers's Good Night, Planet, part of Françoise Mouly's TOON Books series. After that they look at Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi's The Dam Keeper, recently released from First Second. Then they wrap up with a comic-book series, Kirsten "Kiwi" Smith,‎ Kurt Lustgarten,‎ and Naomi Franquiz's Misfit City (BOOM! Box). They also take a look back at 2017, where both Gwen and Paul discuss what they consider the best of comics of the year for young readers. Thu, 28 Dec 2017 12:17:02 -0000 Young Readers: Reviews of Good Night, Planet, The Dam Keeper, and Misfit City, as Well as a Look Back at 2017 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal New and Review Time Codes: 00:31 - Introduction 03:51 - Greetings and apologies 05:36 - Good Night, Planet 13:15 - The Dam Keeper 24:59 - Misfit City 39:30 - A look back at 2017 in young reader comics 56:56 - Wrap up 57:25 - Contact us It's the end of the year, and for their December episode of the Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss three exciting titles as well look back at the past year's releases. They begin by discussing Liniers's Good Night, Planet, part of Françoise Mouly's TOON Books series. After that they look at Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi's The Dam Keeper, recently released from First Second. Then they wrap up with a comic-book series, Kirsten "Kiwi" Smith,‎ Kurt Lustgarten,‎ and Naomi Franquiz's Misfit City (BOOM! Box). They also take a look back at 2017, where both Gwen and Paul discuss what they consider the best of comics of the year for young readers. Time Codes:

It's the end of the year, and for their December episode of the Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss three exciting titles as well look back at the past year's releases. They begin by discussing Liniers's Good Night, Planet, part of Françoise Mouly's TOON Books series. After that they look at Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi's The Dam Keeper, recently released from First Second. Then they wrap up with a comic-book series, Kirsten "Kiwi" Smith,‎ Kurt Lustgarten,‎ and Naomi Franquiz's Misfit City (BOOM! Box).

They also take a look back at 2017, where both Gwen and Paul discuss what they consider the best of comics of the year for young readers.

]]> 3662 no Webcomics: Reviews of Cookies, All Along the Wall, and Holiday Wars http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-cookies-all-along-the-wall-and-holiday-wars Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:10 - Happy Holidays! 00:04:32 - Cookies 00:20:04 - All Along the Wall 00:33:53 - Holiday Wars 01:01:51 - Wrap up 01:02:59 - Contact us It's the holiday season, and for December Sean and Derek discuss three holiday-related webcomics. The start off by looking at two shorter works, Kate Beaton's Cookies (available on her Hark! A Vagrant website) and Emily Carroll's creepy All Along the Wall. After that they look at the much more substantial Holiday Wars, written by Scott King and with art by Michael Odom. So sit back, plug in your earphones, and enjoy the holiday goodness of this month's webcomics episode. Fri, 22 Dec 2017 14:00:00 -0000 Webcomics: Reviews of Cookies, All Along the Wall, and Holiday Wars full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Holiday Web Fun Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:10 - Happy Holidays! 00:04:32 - Cookies 00:20:04 - All Along the Wall 00:33:53 - Holiday Wars 01:01:51 - Wrap up 01:02:59 - Contact us It's the holiday season, and for December Sean and Derek discuss three holiday-related webcomics. The start off by looking at two shorter works, Kate Beaton's Cookies (available on her Hark! A Vagrant website) and Emily Carroll's creepy All Along the Wall. After that they look at the much more substantial Holiday Wars, written by Scott King and with art by Michael Odom. So sit back, plug in your earphones, and enjoy the holiday goodness of this month's webcomics episode. Time Codes:

It's the holiday season, and for December Sean and Derek discuss three holiday-related webcomics. The start off by looking at two shorter works, Kate Beaton's Cookies (available on her Hark! A Vagrant website) and Emily Carroll's creepy All Along the Wall. After that they look at the much more substantial Holiday Wars, written by Scott King and with art by Michael Odom. So sit back, plug in your earphones, and enjoy the holiday goodness of this month's webcomics episode.

]]> 3998 no Manga: Reviews of Servant X Service and Sweet Blue Flowers, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-servant-x-service-and-sweet-blue-flowers-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:35 - In-between holidays 00:09:01 - Servant X Service 00:55:47 - Sweet Blue Flowers, Vol. 1 01:32:21 - Wrap up 01:33:22 - Contact us For November Shea and Derek discuss two very different kind of manga, but both that involve romance in one form or another. They begin with Karino Takatsu's Servant X Service. The complete series was released in two volumes by Yen Press in 2016, and the guys spend much of the episode discussing this strip-like series. The title concerns civil servants on the job -- a topic you don't really encounter much in comics/manga -- and both Derek and Shea have a lot to say about the unusual subject matter and format. After that they discuss the first volume of Takako Shimura's Sweet Blue Flowers (VIZ Media). As the guys reveal, this is an example of yuri manga, where two childhood friends who have lost track of one another become reacquainted in high school, although they attend different academies. As the story unfolds, romances and complicated relationships develop. However, the friendship of the series' main protagonists (at least in this first volume), Fumi and Akira, is what really anchors this text. Fri, 01 Dec 2017 14:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Servant X Service and Sweet Blue Flowers, Vol. 1 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal November Is For Lovers Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:35 - In-between holidays 00:09:01 - Servant X Service 00:55:47 - Sweet Blue Flowers, Vol. 1 01:32:21 - Wrap up 01:33:22 - Contact us For November Shea and Derek discuss two very different kind of manga, but both that involve romance in one form or another. They begin with Karino Takatsu's Servant X Service. The complete series was released in two volumes by Yen Press in 2016, and the guys spend much of the episode discussing this strip-like series. The title concerns civil servants on the job -- a topic you don't really encounter much in comics/manga -- and both Derek and Shea have a lot to say about the unusual subject matter and format. After that they discuss the first volume of Takako Shimura's Sweet Blue Flowers (VIZ Media). As the guys reveal, this is an example of yuri manga, where two childhood friends who have lost track of one another become reacquainted in high school, although they attend different academies. As the story unfolds, romances and complicated relationships develop. However, the friendship of the series' main protagonists (at least in this first volume), Fumi and Akira, is what really anchors this text. Time Codes:

For November Shea and Derek discuss two very different kind of manga, but both that involve romance in one form or another. They begin with Karino Takatsu's Servant X Service. The complete series was released in two volumes by Yen Press in 2016, and the guys spend much of the episode discussing this strip-like series. The title concerns civil servants on the job -- a topic you don't really encounter much in comics/manga -- and both Derek and Shea have a lot to say about the unusual subject matter and format. After that they discuss the first volume of Takako Shimura's Sweet Blue Flowers (VIZ Media). As the guys reveal, this is an example of yuri manga, where two childhood friends who have lost track of one another become reacquainted in high school, although they attend different academies. As the story unfolds, romances and complicated relationships develop. However, the friendship of the series' main protagonists (at least in this first volume), Fumi and Akira, is what really anchors this text.

]]> 5805 no Episode 259: Reviews of Bad Mask, Evolution #1, and Doctor Radar #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-259-reviews-of-bad-mask-evolution-1-and-doctor-radar-1 Time Codes: 00:01:26 - Introduction 00:03:48 - Post-Thanksgiving digestion 00:05:07 - Bad Mask 00:30:41 - Evolution #1 00:46:48 - Doctor Radar #1 01:03:06 - Wrap up 01:04:36 - Contact us On this week's episode Gwen and Derek discuss three recent releases that, while all being quite different, nonetheless share a common theme of mystery. They start off with Jon Chad's Bad Mask (BOOM! Box), a multimedia project that explores perspective and interpretation. With its various components in multiple print formats -- comic book, trading cards, newspaper tabloid, mainstream news magazine, business reports, etc. -- it's an intelligent exploration of how we define "hero." Next, the Two PhDs Talking about Comics explore the first issue of Evolution (Image Comics). This is a different kind of comic in that it's written by four authors...and the result is solid and far from fragmented. James Asmus, Joseph Keatinge, Christopher Sebela, and Joshua Williamson contribute to the story, with Joe Infurnari providing the art. Finally, Gwen and Derek look at Noël Simsolo and Bézian's Doctor Radar #1 (Titan Comics). This is a translation that taps into the crime noir genre, expertly done and perhaps the highlight of the week. Wed, 29 Nov 2017 11:15:56 -0000 Reviews of Bad Mask, Evolution #1, and Doctor Radar #1 full 259 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mystery! Time Codes: 00:01:26 - Introduction 00:03:48 - Post-Thanksgiving digestion 00:05:07 - Bad Mask 00:30:41 - Evolution #1 00:46:48 - Doctor Radar #1 01:03:06 - Wrap up 01:04:36 - Contact us On this week's episode Gwen and Derek discuss three recent releases that, while all being quite different, nonetheless share a common theme of mystery. They start off with Jon Chad's Bad Mask (BOOM! Box), a multimedia project that explores perspective and interpretation. With its various components in multiple print formats -- comic book, trading cards, newspaper tabloid, mainstream news magazine, business reports, etc. -- it's an intelligent exploration of how we define "hero." Next, the Two PhDs Talking about Comics explore the first issue of Evolution (Image Comics). This is a different kind of comic in that it's written by four authors...and the result is solid and far from fragmented. James Asmus, Joseph Keatinge, Christopher Sebela, and Joshua Williamson contribute to the story, with Joe Infurnari providing the art. Finally, Gwen and Derek look at Noël Simsolo and Bézian's Doctor Radar #1 (Titan Comics). This is a translation that taps into the crime noir genre, expertly done and perhaps the highlight of the week. Time Codes:

On this week's episode Gwen and Derek discuss three recent releases that, while all being quite different, nonetheless share a common theme of mystery. They start off with Jon Chad's Bad Mask (BOOM! Box), a multimedia project that explores perspective and interpretation. With its various components in multiple print formats -- comic book, trading cards, newspaper tabloid, mainstream news magazine, business reports, etc. -- it's an intelligent exploration of how we define "hero." Next, the Two PhDs Talking about Comics explore the first issue of Evolution (Image Comics). This is a different kind of comic in that it's written by four authors...and the result is solid and far from fragmented. James Asmus, Joseph Keatinge, Christopher Sebela, and Joshua Williamson contribute to the story, with Joe Infurnari providing the art. Finally, Gwen and Derek look at Noël Simsolo and Bézian's Doctor Radar #1 (Titan Comics). This is a translation that taps into the crime noir genre, expertly done and perhaps the highlight of the week.

]]> 4058 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Tim Lane http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-tim-lane Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:24 - Setup of interview 00:04:23 - Interview with Tim Lane 02:13:48 - Wrap up 02:15:18 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek talks with Tim Lane about his series Happy Hour in America, Vol. 2, the first issue of which is just being released from Fantagraphics Books. This isn't the first time that Tim has been interviewed on The Comics Alternative. In January 2015, Derek published on the blog a text-based conversation with him that he had conducted via email. That was a insightful and substantive interview, but the current one goes even further, allowing Tim not only to comment on his current work, but to delve into a variety of other topics, such as the business side of the medium, the state of comic books as a publishing platform, and matters of comics pedagogy. But the core of the conversation concerns Tim's latest efforts in this new volume of Happy Hour in America, his fascination with twentieth-century Americana, his previous collections -- Abandoned Cars and The Lonesome Go -- and the interpretive biography he currently has underway, Just Like Steve McQueen. This is an unusually long interview, running just over two hours, but it's an engaging conversation that will introduce you to Tim's "Great American Mythological Drama." And be sure to support Tim Lane on Patreon! Tue, 28 Nov 2017 14:43:25 -0000 An Interview with Tim Lane full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Great American Mythological Drama Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:24 - Setup of interview 00:04:23 - Interview with Tim Lane 02:13:48 - Wrap up 02:15:18 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek talks with Tim Lane about his series Happy Hour in America, Vol. 2, the first issue of which is just being released from Fantagraphics Books. This isn't the first time that Tim has been interviewed on The Comics Alternative. In January 2015, Derek published on the blog a text-based conversation with him that he had conducted via email. That was a insightful and substantive interview, but the current one goes even further, allowing Tim not only to comment on his current work, but to delve into a variety of other topics, such as the business side of the medium, the state of comic books as a publishing platform, and matters of comics pedagogy. But the core of the conversation concerns Tim's latest efforts in this new volume of Happy Hour in America, his fascination with twentieth-century Americana, his previous collections -- Abandoned Cars and The Lonesome Go -- and the interpretive biography he currently has underway, Just Like Steve McQueen. This is an unusually long interview, running just over two hours, but it's an engaging conversation that will introduce you to Tim's "Great American Mythological Drama." And be sure to support Tim Lane on Patreon! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:24 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:23 - Interview with Tim Lane
  • 02:13:48 - Wrap up
  • 02:15:18 - Contact us

On this interview episode Derek talks with Tim Lane about his series Happy Hour in America, Vol. 2, the first issue of which is just being released from Fantagraphics Books. This isn't the first time that Tim has been interviewed on The Comics Alternative. In January 2015, Derek published on the blog a text-based conversation with him that he had conducted via email. That was a insightful and substantive interview, but the current one goes even further, allowing Tim not only to comment on his current work, but to delve into a variety of other topics, such as the business side of the medium, the state of comic books as a publishing platform, and matters of comics pedagogy. But the core of the conversation concerns Tim's latest efforts in this new volume of Happy Hour in America, his fascination with twentieth-century Americana, his previous collections -- Abandoned Cars and The Lonesome Go -- and the interpretive biography he currently has underway, Just Like Steve McQueen. This is an unusually long interview, running just over two hours, but it's an engaging conversation that will introduce you to Tim's "Great American Mythological Drama."

And be sure to support Tim Lane on Patreon!

]]> 8374 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Swan Song: The Musical Anthology http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-swan-song-the-musical-anthology For this week's Kickstarter spotlight, Derek focuses on Swan Song: The Musical Anthology, a campaign underway from Cloudscape Comics. Discussing this project with him are Jeffrey Ellis and Oliver McTavish-Wisden, the assistant director/founder and the executive director, respectively, of the small Vancouver publisher and collective. Swan Song is an anthology including contributions from a wide variety of (mostly) British Columbia-based creators, all of which engage with music in one way or another. Swan Song will feature a cover by Renee Nault, and creative contributions from: Ed Appleby Arden Belfry Anthony Biondi James Brandi Emily Cowan Jonathon Dalton Jesse Davidge Monica Disher Jeff Ellis Drew Gilmour Annalise Jensen Sam Keating K. Kelsay Yashaswi Kesanakurthy Reetta Linjama Riley Masters Tamiko Masters Oliver McTavish-Wisden Angela Melick Sfé R. Monster Hannah Myers Alina Pete Jess Pollard Anat Rabkin Simon Roy G. C. Joseph Seiler Karen Shangguan Bevan Thomas Ian Thomas Jason Wilkins Jeri Weaver Klara Woldenga Patrick Wong This campaign will end on Saturday, December 9, so be sure to visit the Swan Song Kickstarter page and back this campaign! UPDATE SINCE THE RECORDING: Oliver and Jeff have now included a support level for a soft-cover edition of Swan Song! Sample Art   Sat, 25 Nov 2017 03:15:20 -0000 Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Swan Song: The Musical Anthology full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Going Out with a Song For this week's Kickstarter spotlight, Derek focuses on Swan Song: The Musical Anthology, a campaign underway from Cloudscape Comics. Discussing this project with him are Jeffrey Ellis and Oliver McTavish-Wisden, the assistant director/founder and the executive director, respectively, of the small Vancouver publisher and collective. Swan Song is an anthology including contributions from a wide variety of (mostly) British Columbia-based creators, all of which engage with music in one way or another. Swan Song will feature a cover by Renee Nault, and creative contributions from: Ed Appleby Arden Belfry Anthony Biondi James Brandi Emily Cowan Jonathon Dalton Jesse Davidge Monica Disher Jeff Ellis Drew Gilmour Annalise Jensen Sam Keating K. Kelsay Yashaswi Kesanakurthy Reetta Linjama Riley Masters Tamiko Masters Oliver McTavish-Wisden Angela Melick Sfé R. Monster Hannah Myers Alina Pete Jess Pollard Anat Rabkin Simon Roy G. C. Joseph Seiler Karen Shangguan Bevan Thomas Ian Thomas Jason Wilkins Jeri Weaver Klara Woldenga Patrick Wong This campaign will end on Saturday, December 9, so be sure to visit the Swan Song Kickstarter page and back this campaign! UPDATE SINCE THE RECORDING: Oliver and Jeff have now included a support level for a soft-cover edition of Swan Song! Sample Art  

For this week's Kickstarter spotlight, Derek focuses on Swan Song: The Musical Anthology, a campaign underway from Cloudscape Comics. Discussing this project with him are Jeffrey Ellis and Oliver McTavish-Wisden, the assistant director/founder and the executive director, respectively, of the small Vancouver publisher and collective. Swan Song is an anthology including contributions from a wide variety of (mostly) British Columbia-based creators, all of which engage with music in one way or another.

Swan Song will feature a cover by Renee Nault, and creative contributions from:

This campaign will end on Saturday, December 9, so be sure to visit the Swan Song Kickstarter page and back this campaign!

UPDATE SINCE THE RECORDING: Oliver and Jeff have now included a support level for a soft-cover edition of Swan Song!

Sample Art

 

]]> 1135 no Episode 258: Our Fifth Annual Thanksgiving Show http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-258-our-fifth-annual-thanksgiving-show Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and the folks at The Comics Alternative all gather around the virtual table to share what they are thankful for in terms of comics and comics culture. Pulling up a seat this year are Gwen, Paul, Sean, Gene, Edward, and Derek. Among the many things that they're thankful for are First Second's Science Comics and Secret Coders series, local comics shops (Comix Revolution in Evanston, IL, and Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC) and local conventions (such as CAKE), being able to meet your comics heroes, such as Gary Panter and Trina Robbins, the conclusion of Inio Asano's Goodnight Punpun series, Fantagraphics and its always impressive output, such as this year's Now and How to Read Nancy, Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman's Resist!, Craig Yoe, the growing number of publishers of Franco-Belgian comics, having dinner with Gilbert Hernandez and his family, Kodansha Comics and its ongoing efforts to publish quality editions of classic (and not-so-classic) manga, and the many creators and publicists who help to make this podcast possible! What more could one ask for in a holiday podcast episode? Well...maybe some pie. Wed, 22 Nov 2017 14:10:38 -0000 Our Fifth Annual Thanksgiving Show full 258 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Pass the Pie Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and the folks at The Comics Alternative all gather around the virtual table to share what they are thankful for in terms of comics and comics culture. Pulling up a seat this year are Gwen, Paul, Sean, Gene, Edward, and Derek. Among the many things that they're thankful for are First Second's Science Comics and Secret Coders series, local comics shops (Comix Revolution in Evanston, IL, and Heroes Aren't Hard to Find in Charlotte, NC) and local conventions (such as CAKE), being able to meet your comics heroes, such as Gary Panter and Trina Robbins, the conclusion of Inio Asano's Goodnight Punpun series, Fantagraphics and its always impressive output, such as this year's Now and How to Read Nancy, Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman's Resist!, Craig Yoe, the growing number of publishers of Franco-Belgian comics, having dinner with Gilbert Hernandez and his family, Kodansha Comics and its ongoing efforts to publish quality editions of classic (and not-so-classic) manga, and the many creators and publicists who help to make this podcast possible! What more could one ask for in a holiday podcast episode? Well...maybe some pie.

Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and the folks at The Comics Alternative all gather around the virtual table to share what they are thankful for in terms of comics and comics culture. Pulling up a seat this year are Gwen, Paul, Sean, Gene, Edward, and Derek. Among the many things that they're thankful for are

What more could one ask for in a holiday podcast episode? Well...maybe some pie.

]]> 4846 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Mitch Maglio http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-mitch-maglio Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:39 - Setup of interview 03:45 - Interview with Mitch Maglio 58:47 - Wrap up 59:50 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Mitch Maglio about his new book, Fiction House: From Pulps to Panels, from Jungles to Space, just out from IDW/Yoe Books. Mitch is an aficionado on Fiction House (as well as on the jungle girl genre), so he's the perfect writer/collector to discuss this historic publisher. He talks with Derek about the origins of Fiction House, its colorful founder, the publisher's major role in the pulps, its mostly forgotten stature during the Golden Age, the many legends who worked as writers and artists on their many publications, its ironic position concerning female empowerment, and the various titles for which it was known, including Jumbo Comics, Fight Comics, Wings Comics, and of course Sheena: Queen of the Jungle. Tue, 21 Nov 2017 16:17:39 -0000 An Interview with Mitch Maglio full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Cheesecake and Empowerment Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:39 - Setup of interview 03:45 - Interview with Mitch Maglio 58:47 - Wrap up 59:50 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Mitch Maglio about his new book, Fiction House: From Pulps to Panels, from Jungles to Space, just out from IDW/Yoe Books. Mitch is an aficionado on Fiction House (as well as on the jungle girl genre), so he's the perfect writer/collector to discuss this historic publisher. He talks with Derek about the origins of Fiction House, its colorful founder, the publisher's major role in the pulps, its mostly forgotten stature during the Golden Age, the many legends who worked as writers and artists on their many publications, its ironic position concerning female empowerment, and the various titles for which it was known, including Jumbo Comics, Fight Comics, Wings Comics, and of course Sheena: Queen of the Jungle. Time Codes:

  • 00:25 - Introduction
  • 02:39 - Setup of interview
  • 03:45 - Interview with Mitch Maglio
  • 58:47 - Wrap up
  • 59:50 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Mitch Maglio about his new book, Fiction House: From Pulps to Panels, from Jungles to Space, just out from IDW/Yoe Books. Mitch is an aficionado on Fiction House (as well as on the jungle girl genre), so he's the perfect writer/collector to discuss this historic publisher. He talks with Derek about the origins of Fiction House, its colorful founder, the publisher's major role in the pulps, its mostly forgotten stature during the Golden Age, the many legends who worked as writers and artists on their many publications, its ironic position concerning female empowerment, and the various titles for which it was known, including Jumbo Comics, Fight Comics, Wings Comics, and of course Sheena: Queen of the Jungle.

]]> 3764 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-ryan-osullivan-and-plaid-klaus Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:44 - Setup of interview 00:04:48 - Interview with Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus 00:59:30 - Wrap up 01:02:24 - Contact us Sean joins Derek to interview a creative team that the two have discussed previously, Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus. Last year the guys reviewed Ryan and Klaus's webcomic Turncoat (now available in softcover), but this time they talk with the creators about a new print publication, their Image Comics limited series Void Trip. The first of its five issues comes out this week, and the Two Guys talk with Ryan and Klaus about the genesis of this project, the psychedelic nature of the story, the dynamics of their collaboration, and their philosophies on self-contained and tightly woven narratives. They also talk with the creative duo about their previous work together, Turncoat, and any potential future plans to utilize the webcomics platform. Mon, 20 Nov 2017 13:37:51 -0000 An Interview with Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Froot Loop? Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:44 - Setup of interview 00:04:48 - Interview with Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus 00:59:30 - Wrap up 01:02:24 - Contact us Sean joins Derek to interview a creative team that the two have discussed previously, Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus. Last year the guys reviewed Ryan and Klaus's webcomic Turncoat (now available in softcover), but this time they talk with the creators about a new print publication, their Image Comics limited series Void Trip. The first of its five issues comes out this week, and the Two Guys talk with Ryan and Klaus about the genesis of this project, the psychedelic nature of the story, the dynamics of their collaboration, and their philosophies on self-contained and tightly woven narratives. They also talk with the creative duo about their previous work together, Turncoat, and any potential future plans to utilize the webcomics platform. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:44 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:48 - Interview with Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus
  • 00:59:30 - Wrap up
  • 01:02:24 - Contact us

Sean joins Derek to interview a creative team that the two have discussed previously, Ryan O'Sullivan and Plaid Klaus. Last year the guys reviewed Ryan and Klaus's webcomic Turncoat (now available in softcover), but this time they talk with the creators about a new print publication, their Image Comics limited series Void Trip. The first of its five issues comes out this week, and the Two Guys talk with Ryan and Klaus about the genesis of this project, the psychedelic nature of the story, the dynamics of their collaboration, and their philosophies on self-contained and tightly woven narratives. They also talk with the creative duo about their previous work together, Turncoat, and any potential future plans to utilize the webcomics platform.

]]> 3984 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: What Now, Bruno? http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-what-now-bruno On this week's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Bruno Oliveira about his project What Now, Bruno? This is an autobiographical work exploring what can happen to a comics artist once he's established himself in the industry. Bruno has broken into the field, illustrating for such publishers as IDW (Drones), Arcana (Space, MN), and, most recently, Marvel Comics (Amazing Spider-Man Annual, Gwenpool Holiday Special, and Mosaic, among other titles). But now that he's on his way, how does he manage his work and juggle the necessities in life? What Now, Bruno? is a humorous exploration of that dilemma. This Kickstarter will end on December 7, so be sure to visit Bruno's page, see what it's all about, and back his campaign! As an extra added bonus, if you discover What Now, Bruno? through this Comics Alternative episode, then contact Bruno directly and tell him that you found out about the project through the podcast. If you do, and you back him at a level that includes a physical comic, Bruno will include a free print in your order! Sample Art Sat, 18 Nov 2017 15:14:12 -0000 Comics Alternative Kickstarter: What Now, Bruno? full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal An Artist's Dilemma On this week's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Bruno Oliveira about his project What Now, Bruno? This is an autobiographical work exploring what can happen to a comics artist once he's established himself in the industry. Bruno has broken into the field, illustrating for such publishers as IDW (Drones), Arcana (Space, MN), and, most recently, Marvel Comics (Amazing Spider-Man Annual, Gwenpool Holiday Special, and Mosaic, among other titles). But now that he's on his way, how does he manage his work and juggle the necessities in life? What Now, Bruno? is a humorous exploration of that dilemma. This Kickstarter will end on December 7, so be sure to visit Bruno's page, see what it's all about, and back his campaign! As an extra added bonus, if you discover What Now, Bruno? through this Comics Alternative episode, then contact Bruno directly and tell him that you found out about the project through the podcast. If you do, and you back him at a level that includes a physical comic, Bruno will include a free print in your order! Sample Art

On this week's Kickstarter episode, Derek talks with Bruno Oliveira about his project What Now, Bruno? This is an autobiographical work exploring what can happen to a comics artist once he's established himself in the industry. Bruno has broken into the field, illustrating for such publishers as IDW (Drones), Arcana (Space, MN), and, most recently, Marvel Comics (Amazing Spider-Man Annual, Gwenpool Holiday Special, and Mosaic, among other titles). But now that he's on his way, how does he manage his work and juggle the necessities in life? What Now, Bruno? is a humorous exploration of that dilemma.

This Kickstarter will end on December 7, so be sure to visit Bruno's page, see what it's all about, and back his campaign!

As an extra added bonus, if you discover What Now, Bruno? through this Comics Alternative episode, then contact Bruno directly and tell him that you found out about the project through the podcast. If you do, and you back him at a level that includes a physical comic, Bruno will include a free print in your order!

Sample Art

]]> 1120 no Episode 257: A Publisher Spotlight on Conundrum Press http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-257-a-publisher-spotlight-on-conundrum-press Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Catching up, and listener mail! 00:11:34 - Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me 00:31:09 - Dreams in Thin Air 00:53:24 - Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey 01:07:05 - Getting Out of Hope 01:22:29 - Mister Morgen 01:34:31 - The Collected Neil the Horse 01:59:56 - Wrap up 02:02:25 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek return to one of their favorite publishers, Conundrum Press, for their next publisher spotlight. They had previously released a similar episode on Conundrum two and a half years ago, and they wanted to do so again with their fall 2017 releases. The six titles under discussion vary in style and topic, although the first three books the guys review are all memoirs: Lorina Mapa's Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me, Michael Nybrandt and Thomas Mikkelsen's Dreams in Thin Air, and David Collier's Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey. After that they turn to James Cadelli and his first graphic novel, Getting Out of Hope, and then the surreal story collection Mister Morgen by Croatian poster artist Igor Hofbauer. Finally, Andy and Derek conclude with one of their favorite of the fall releases, The Collected Neil the Horse, by Arn Saba (now Katherine Collins). This is a classic black-and-white comic from the early 1980s that definitely deserves this kind of attention. The closing music of this episode, in fact, is created by Collins for Neil the Horse! Wed, 15 Nov 2017 13:22:48 -0000 A Publisher Spotlight on Conundrum Press full 257 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Memoirs, Nightmares, and Bananas Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Catching up, and listener mail! 00:11:34 - Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me 00:31:09 - Dreams in Thin Air 00:53:24 - Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey 01:07:05 - Getting Out of Hope 01:22:29 - Mister Morgen 01:34:31 - The Collected Neil the Horse 01:59:56 - Wrap up 02:02:25 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek return to one of their favorite publishers, Conundrum Press, for their next publisher spotlight. They had previously released a similar episode on Conundrum two and a half years ago, and they wanted to do so again with their fall 2017 releases. The six titles under discussion vary in style and topic, although the first three books the guys review are all memoirs: Lorina Mapa's Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me, Michael Nybrandt and Thomas Mikkelsen's Dreams in Thin Air, and David Collier's Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey. After that they turn to James Cadelli and his first graphic novel, Getting Out of Hope, and then the surreal story collection Mister Morgen by Croatian poster artist Igor Hofbauer. Finally, Andy and Derek conclude with one of their favorite of the fall releases, The Collected Neil the Horse, by Arn Saba (now Katherine Collins). This is a classic black-and-white comic from the early 1980s that definitely deserves this kind of attention. The closing music of this episode, in fact, is created by Collins for Neil the Horse! Time Codes:

This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek return to one of their favorite publishers, Conundrum Press, for their next publisher spotlight. They had previously released a similar episode on Conundrum two and a half years ago, and they wanted to do so again with their fall 2017 releases. The six titles under discussion vary in style and topic, although the first three books the guys review are all memoirs: Lorina Mapa's Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me, Michael Nybrandt and Thomas Mikkelsen's Dreams in Thin Air, and David Collier's Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey. After that they turn to James Cadelli and his first graphic novel, Getting Out of Hope, and then the surreal story collection Mister Morgen by Croatian poster artist Igor Hofbauer. Finally, Andy and Derek conclude with one of their favorite of the fall releases, The Collected Neil the Horse, by Arn Saba (now Katherine Collins). This is a classic black-and-white comic from the early 1980s that definitely deserves this kind of attention.

The closing music of this episode, in fact, is created by Collins for Neil the Horse!

]]> 7640 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Mark Voger http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-mark-voger Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:03:47 - Interview with Mark Voger 01:05:43 - Wrap up 01:07:15 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Mark Voger about his latest work, Groovy: When Flower Power Bloomed in Pop Culture. The book comes out this week from TwoMorrows Publishing, and during their conversation Mark discusses the roots of groovy culture that reach back to early twentieth-century modernism and jazz, and are even apparent in discoveries during nineteenth century. But most of the interview is spent talking about the flowering, so to speak, of this cultural trend from the mid-1960s into the early 1970s. Obviously Derek asks Mark about the comics of the time -- Mike Sekowsky's new Wonder Woman, Steve Ditko's Hawk and Dove, Jim Steranko's Nick Fury: Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., Archie Comics' Josie, and the underground comix of R. Crumb, Trina Robbins, Jay Lynch, Kim Deitch, and Denis Kitchen -- but they also spend a lot of time discussing "groovy culture" in music, television, film, fashion, and art. Mark also briefly covers his previous book, Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze In America 1957-1972, and the creative transition he made from the ghoulish to the psychedelic. These were the concurrent popular movements that largely defined his young life. Be sure to visit Mark Voger's website to learn more about his groovy work! Tue, 14 Nov 2017 04:27:57 -0000 An Interview with Mark Voger full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "We didn't need LSD. We had Quisp and Quake." Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:03:47 - Interview with Mark Voger 01:05:43 - Wrap up 01:07:15 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Mark Voger about his latest work, Groovy: When Flower Power Bloomed in Pop Culture. The book comes out this week from TwoMorrows Publishing, and during their conversation Mark discusses the roots of groovy culture that reach back to early twentieth-century modernism and jazz, and are even apparent in discoveries during nineteenth century. But most of the interview is spent talking about the flowering, so to speak, of this cultural trend from the mid-1960s into the early 1970s. Obviously Derek asks Mark about the comics of the time -- Mike Sekowsky's new Wonder Woman, Steve Ditko's Hawk and Dove, Jim Steranko's Nick Fury: Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., Archie Comics' Josie, and the underground comix of R. Crumb, Trina Robbins, Jay Lynch, Kim Deitch, and Denis Kitchen -- but they also spend a lot of time discussing "groovy culture" in music, television, film, fashion, and art. Mark also briefly covers his previous book, Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze In America 1957-1972, and the creative transition he made from the ghoulish to the psychedelic. These were the concurrent popular movements that largely defined his young life. Be sure to visit Mark Voger's website to learn more about his groovy work! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:28 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:47 - Interview with Mark Voger
  • 01:05:43 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:15 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Mark Voger about his latest work, Groovy: When Flower Power Bloomed in Pop Culture. The book comes out this week from TwoMorrows Publishing, and during their conversation Mark discusses the roots of groovy culture that reach back to early twentieth-century modernism and jazz, and are even apparent in discoveries during nineteenth century. But most of the interview is spent talking about the flowering, so to speak, of this cultural trend from the mid-1960s into the early 1970s. Obviously Derek asks Mark about the comics of the time -- Mike Sekowsky's new Wonder Woman, Steve Ditko's Hawk and Dove, Jim Steranko's Nick Fury: Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., Archie Comics' Josie, and the underground comix of R. Crumb, Trina Robbins, Jay Lynch, Kim Deitch, and Denis Kitchen -- but they also spend a lot of time discussing "groovy culture" in music, television, film, fashion, and art. Mark also briefly covers his previous book, Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze In America 1957-1972, and the creative transition he made from the ghoulish to the psychedelic. These were the concurrent popular movements that largely defined his young life.

Be sure to visit Mark Voger's website to learn more about his groovy work! ]]> 4251 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Billie Holiday, Josephine Baker, and The Green Hand and Other Stories http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-billie-holiday-josephine-baker-and-the-green-hand-and-other-stories Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:36 - Edward's big life changes! 00:08:09 - Billie Holiday 00:26:53 - Josephine Baker 00:59:14 - The Green Hand and Other Stories 01:20:36 - Wrap up 01:22:17 - Contact us After having to readjust for a few major life changes -- including a new baby for first-time parents! -- Edward and Derek are back with the monthly Euro Comics series. For November they discuss two graphic biographies devoted to early twentieth-century artists as well as a collection of surreal and experimental fiction. They start with Carlos Sampayo and Jose Muñoz's Billie Holiday (NBM Publishing), a text that fully utilizes the somber, even noir uses of black-and-white (Muñoz's art was an inspiration for Frank Miller's Sin City, after all). Originally published by Fantagraphics in 1993, this work provides a skeletal overview of Holiday's life and career, both its artistic highs and its drug-filled lows. A much more detailed graphic biography is Jose-Luis Bocquet and Catel Muller's Josephine Baker. Published by SelfMadeHero, this is an extensive look at Baker's life and includes encyclopedic back matter that supplements the narrative. This is a more conventional biography than the one on Billie Holiday, a chronological accounting from a more objective, detached point of view. Perhaps most notable is the fact that Edward, himself, did the translation of this text (although not the back matter). As such, he provides insightful behind-the-scenes information about the preparation of this album, its editorial handling of sensitive racial issues, and the dynamics involved in the art of translation. Finally, Derek and Edward wrap up with very different kind of work, Nicole Claveloux's The Green Hand and Other Stories (New York Review Comics). In addition to its longer titular story, the collection includes seven other Claveloux short comics that vary in style and narrative conventionality. All of the pieces are dreamlike, even psychedelic in nature, originally appearing in Métal Hurlant or through Les Humanoïdes Associés between 1979 and 1980. With an introduction by Daniel Clowes and an interview with "Green Hand" co-creator Edith Zha, this is collection that serves as a great introduction to the often-overlooked Claveloux. Mon, 13 Nov 2017 13:09:35 -0000 Reviews of Billie Holiday, Josephine Baker, and The Green Hand and Other Stories full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Post-Natal Returns Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:36 - Edward's big life changes! 00:08:09 - Billie Holiday 00:26:53 - Josephine Baker 00:59:14 - The Green Hand and Other Stories 01:20:36 - Wrap up 01:22:17 - Contact us After having to readjust for a few major life changes -- including a new baby for first-time parents! -- Edward and Derek are back with the monthly Euro Comics series. For November they discuss two graphic biographies devoted to early twentieth-century artists as well as a collection of surreal and experimental fiction. They start with Carlos Sampayo and Jose Muñoz's Billie Holiday (NBM Publishing), a text that fully utilizes the somber, even noir uses of black-and-white (Muñoz's art was an inspiration for Frank Miller's Sin City, after all). Originally published by Fantagraphics in 1993, this work provides a skeletal overview of Holiday's life and career, both its artistic highs and its drug-filled lows. A much more detailed graphic biography is Jose-Luis Bocquet and Catel Muller's Josephine Baker. Published by SelfMadeHero, this is an extensive look at Baker's life and includes encyclopedic back matter that supplements the narrative. This is a more conventional biography than the one on Billie Holiday, a chronological accounting from a more objective, detached point of view. Perhaps most notable is the fact that Edward, himself, did the translation of this text (although not the back matter). As such, he provides insightful behind-the-scenes information about the preparation of this album, its editorial handling of sensitive racial issues, and the dynamics involved in the art of translation. Finally, Derek and Edward wrap up with very different kind of work, Nicole Claveloux's The Green Hand and Other Stories (New York Review Comics). In addition to its longer titular story, the collection includes seven other Claveloux short comics that vary in style and narrative conventionality. All of the pieces are dreamlike, even psychedelic in nature, originally appearing in Métal Hurlant or through Les Humanoïdes Associés between 1979 and 1980. With an introduction by Daniel Clowes and an interview with "Green Hand" co-creator Edith Zha, this is collection that serves as a great introduction to the often-overlooked Claveloux. Time Codes:

After having to readjust for a few major life changes -- including a new baby for first-time parents! -- Edward and Derek are back with the monthly Euro Comics series. For November they discuss two graphic biographies devoted to early twentieth-century artists as well as a collection of surreal and experimental fiction. They start with Carlos Sampayo and Jose Muñoz's Billie Holiday (NBM Publishing), a text that fully utilizes the somber, even noir uses of black-and-white (Muñoz's art was an inspiration for Frank Miller's Sin City, after all). Originally published by Fantagraphics in 1993, this work provides a skeletal overview of Holiday's life and career, both its artistic highs and its drug-filled lows.

A much more detailed graphic biography is Jose-Luis Bocquet and Catel Muller's Josephine Baker. Published by SelfMadeHero, this is an extensive look at Baker's life and includes encyclopedic back matter that supplements the narrative. This is a more conventional biography than the one on Billie Holiday, a chronological accounting from a more objective, detached point of view. Perhaps most notable is the fact that Edward, himself, did the translation of this text (although not the back matter). As such, he provides insightful behind-the-scenes information about the preparation of this album, its editorial handling of sensitive racial issues, and the dynamics involved in the art of translation.

Finally, Derek and Edward wrap up with very different kind of work, Nicole Claveloux's The Green Hand and Other Stories (New York Review Comics). In addition to its longer titular story, the collection includes seven other Claveloux short comics that vary in style and narrative conventionality. All of the pieces are dreamlike, even psychedelic in nature, originally appearing in Métal Hurlant or through Les Humanoïdes Associés between 1979 and 1980. With an introduction by Daniel Clowes and an interview with "Green Hand" co-creator Edith Zha, this is collection that serves as a great introduction to the often-overlooked Claveloux.

]]> 5262 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: LAAB Magazine #0: Dark Matter http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-laab-magazine-0-dark-matter This week Derek talks with Ronald Wimberly, Josh O'Neill, and Maëlle Doliveux about their Kickstarter project LAAB Magazine #0: Dark Matter. Published by Beehive Books, this will be a tabloid-sized newspaper annual filled with comics, interviews, artwork, cultural criticism, and writings on identity as played out in popular culture. This inaugural #0 issue will include An interview with musician and actor Saul Williams  A conversation with graphic artist Trenton Doyle Hancock James Romberger on Jean-Michel Basquiat A discussion with the poster artist Alexandra Bell A critical analysis of George Lucas's THX 1138 Ronald Wimberly's visual tribute to Sun Ra A review of BLACK, the new comic from Black Mask Studios Over a dozen pages of comics and illustration by Ronald Wimberly ...and much more! Be sure to visit the LAAB Kickstarter page, see what Ronald is up to, and back this project by Friday, December 1. And learn more about the exciting publications coming out through Josh and Maëlle's Beehive Books! Sample Art   Sat, 11 Nov 2017 12:58:41 -0000 Comics Alternative Kickstarter: LAAB Magazine #0: Dark Matter full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Crossroads of Identity and Culture This week Derek talks with Ronald Wimberly, Josh O'Neill, and Maëlle Doliveux about their Kickstarter project LAAB Magazine #0: Dark Matter. Published by Beehive Books, this will be a tabloid-sized newspaper annual filled with comics, interviews, artwork, cultural criticism, and writings on identity as played out in popular culture. This inaugural #0 issue will include An interview with musician and actor Saul Williams  A conversation with graphic artist Trenton Doyle Hancock James Romberger on Jean-Michel Basquiat A discussion with the poster artist Alexandra Bell A critical analysis of George Lucas's THX 1138 Ronald Wimberly's visual tribute to Sun Ra A review of BLACK, the new comic from Black Mask Studios Over a dozen pages of comics and illustration by Ronald Wimberly ...and much more! Be sure to visit the LAAB Kickstarter page, see what Ronald is up to, and back this project by Friday, December 1. And learn more about the exciting publications coming out through Josh and Maëlle's Beehive Books! Sample Art  

This week Derek talks with Ronald Wimberly, Josh O'Neill, and Maëlle Doliveux about their Kickstarter project LAAB Magazine #0: Dark Matter. Published by Beehive Books, this will be a tabloid-sized newspaper annual filled with comics, interviews, artwork, cultural criticism, and writings on identity as played out in popular culture. This inaugural #0 issue will include

  • An interview with musician and actor Saul Williams 
  • A conversation with graphic artist Trenton Doyle Hancock
  • James Romberger on Jean-Michel Basquiat
  • A discussion with the poster artist Alexandra Bell
  • A critical analysis of George Lucas's THX 1138
  • Ronald Wimberly's visual tribute to Sun Ra
  • A review of BLACK, the new comic from Black Mask Studios
  • Over a dozen pages of comics and illustration by Ronald Wimberly
  • ...and much more!

Be sure to visit the LAAB Kickstarter page, see what Ronald is up to, and back this project by Friday, December 1. And learn more about the exciting publications coming out through Josh and Maëlle's Beehive Books!

Sample Art

 

]]> 1219 no Episode 256: Reviews of Kid Lobotomy #1 and #2, Carnival of Contagion, and Monograph http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-256-reviews-of-kid-lobotomy-1-and-2-carnival-of-contagion-and-monograph Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:00 - Our new Kickstarter series and Slack channel! 00:08:48 - Kid Lobotomy #1 and #2 00:31:09 - Carnival of Contagion 00:48:15 - Monograph 01:20:23 - Wrap up 01:23:15 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek review three new titles that are all quite different in content and audience. They begin with the first two issues of Peter Milligan and Tess Fowler's Kid Lobotomy, the first series in IDW's new Black Crown imprint. The guys start their discussion by referencing Shelly Bond and her stated intentions behind the new creator-owned line. But while they're certainly amenable to the edgy or punk mentality that had once defined Vertigo, the guys feel that in her commentary in these first two issues, Bond is trying a little too hard to be hip and get us on board. And while both Derek and Paul are fans of Milligan's storytelling, there's something a little too much, something too crowded or unwieldy, about the premise of Kid Lobotomy. Nonetheless, given the creative team on this title, and its place in the new Black Crown line, the guys are going to give this series a lot of rope in hopes of being won over. Next, the guys discuss Carnival of Contagion, a new educational comic from the University of Nebraska Press that's all about vaccination awareness. Illustrated by Bob Hall, and written by him as well (along with John West and Judy Diamond), this is a title that's apparently intended for classroom use. As Paul and Derek reveal, the story may be a little dry -- and even didactic in places -- but it effectively drives home the importance of vaccination not only for individuals, but for our communities as well. Finally, the Two Guys turn to a behemoth of a text, Chris Ware's Monograph (Rizolli). Both Derek and Paul are big fans of Ware's creativity, and they're mesmerized by the sheer beauty and ingenuity contained within this work (which is much more of an art book, and one with autobiographical impulses, than a comic). However, they're a little put off at times by the apologetic tone of the author. Granted, Chris Ware is known for his self-deprecation, where he feels he has to apologize for his comics efforts as an artist. But such a stance can also take on a more self-aggrandizing quality, highlighting the uniqueness -- and the "seriousness" or the high-brow-ness -- of the project and contrasting it to more "common" or mainstream comics. This can also be seen in Art Spiegelman's introduction and his emphasis on "comix." But despite these minor annoyances, the guys are completely taken by this volume and strongly recommend it to not only Chris Ware fans, but to serious comics readers as a whole. Wed, 08 Nov 2017 12:29:16 -0000 Reviews of Kid Lobotomy #1 and #2, Carnival of Contagion, and Monograph full 256 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Trying Too Hard Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:00 - Our new Kickstarter series and Slack channel! 00:08:48 - Kid Lobotomy #1 and #2 00:31:09 - Carnival of Contagion 00:48:15 - Monograph 01:20:23 - Wrap up 01:23:15 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek review three new titles that are all quite different in content and audience. They begin with the first two issues of Peter Milligan and Tess Fowler's Kid Lobotomy, the first series in IDW's new Black Crown imprint. The guys start their discussion by referencing Shelly Bond and her stated intentions behind the new creator-owned line. But while they're certainly amenable to the edgy or punk mentality that had once defined Vertigo, the guys feel that in her commentary in these first two issues, Bond is trying a little too hard to be hip and get us on board. And while both Derek and Paul are fans of Milligan's storytelling, there's something a little too much, something too crowded or unwieldy, about the premise of Kid Lobotomy. Nonetheless, given the creative team on this title, and its place in the new Black Crown line, the guys are going to give this series a lot of rope in hopes of being won over. Next, the guys discuss Carnival of Contagion, a new educational comic from the University of Nebraska Press that's all about vaccination awareness. Illustrated by Bob Hall, and written by him as well (along with John West and Judy Diamond), this is a title that's apparently intended for classroom use. As Paul and Derek reveal, the story may be a little dry -- and even didactic in places -- but it effectively drives home the importance of vaccination not only for individuals, but for our communities as well. Finally, the Two Guys turn to a behemoth of a text, Chris Ware's Monograph (Rizolli). Both Derek and Paul are big fans of Ware's creativity, and they're mesmerized by the sheer beauty and ingenuity contained within this work (which is much more of an art book, and one with autobiographical impulses, than a comic). However, they're a little put off at times by the apologetic tone of the author. Granted, Chris Ware is known for his self-deprecation, where he feels he has to apologize for his comics efforts as an artist. But such a stance can also take on a more self-aggrandizing quality, highlighting the uniqueness -- and the "seriousness" or the high-brow-ness -- of the project and contrasting it to more "common" or mainstream comics. This can also be seen in Art Spiegelman's introduction and his emphasis on "comix." But despite these minor annoyances, the guys are completely taken by this volume and strongly recommend it to not only Chris Ware fans, but to serious comics readers as a whole. Time Codes:

This week Paul and Derek review three new titles that are all quite different in content and audience. They begin with the first two issues of Peter Milligan and Tess Fowler's Kid Lobotomy, the first series in IDW's new Black Crown imprint. The guys start their discussion by referencing Shelly Bond and her stated intentions behind the new creator-owned line. But while they're certainly amenable to the edgy or punk mentality that had once defined Vertigo, the guys feel that in her commentary in these first two issues, Bond is trying a little too hard to be hip and get us on board. And while both Derek and Paul are fans of Milligan's storytelling, there's something a little too much, something too crowded or unwieldy, about the premise of Kid Lobotomy. Nonetheless, given the creative team on this title, and its place in the new Black Crown line, the guys are going to give this series a lot of rope in hopes of being won over.

Next, the guys discuss Carnival of Contagion, a new educational comic from the University of Nebraska Press that's all about vaccination awareness. Illustrated by Bob Hall, and written by him as well (along with John West and Judy Diamond), this is a title that's apparently intended for classroom use. As Paul and Derek reveal, the story may be a little dry -- and even didactic in places -- but it effectively drives home the importance of vaccination not only for individuals, but for our communities as well.

Finally, the Two Guys turn to a behemoth of a text, Chris Ware's Monograph (Rizolli). Both Derek and Paul are big fans of Ware's creativity, and they're mesmerized by the sheer beauty and ingenuity contained within this work (which is much more of an art book, and one with autobiographical impulses, than a comic). However, they're a little put off at times by the apologetic tone of the author. Granted, Chris Ware is known for his self-deprecation, where he feels he has to apologize for his comics efforts as an artist. But such a stance can also take on a more self-aggrandizing quality, highlighting the uniqueness -- and the "seriousness" or the high-brow-ness -- of the project and contrasting it to more "common" or mainstream comics. This can also be seen in Art Spiegelman's introduction and his emphasis on "comix." But despite these minor annoyances, the guys are completely taken by this volume and strongly recommend it to not only Chris Ware fans, but to serious comics readers as a whole.

]]> 5180 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Joseph Remnant http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-joseph-remnant Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Setup of interview 00:03:45 - Interview with Joseph Remnant 01:18:05 - Wrap up 01:19:38 - Contact us Derek is pleased to have Joseph Remnant on the podcast. His new book, Cartoon Clouds, was released last month from Fantagraphics. This is a graphic novel in the truest sense, a work of fiction that explores the nuances of relationships, defining yourself, and growing apart from those with whom you were once close. As Joseph reveals, this is a narrative that began in serial installments on a website he once maintained with Noah Van Sciver, but it soon developed into something more complex and ambitious. Most of the interview is devoted to Cartoon Clouds, but Derek also asks his guest about his comic-book series Blindspot and his illustration work with Harvey Pekar. Along the way Joseph talks about his contribution in the upcoming second issue of Now, and he hints at some of the new work he currently has underway. Joseph will be at CAB, Comic Arts Brooklyn, this coming weekend. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by and tell him hello and that you heard him on The Comics Alternative! Tue, 07 Nov 2017 12:12:23 -0000 An Interview with Joseph Remnant full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Growth Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Setup of interview 00:03:45 - Interview with Joseph Remnant 01:18:05 - Wrap up 01:19:38 - Contact us Derek is pleased to have Joseph Remnant on the podcast. His new book, Cartoon Clouds, was released last month from Fantagraphics. This is a graphic novel in the truest sense, a work of fiction that explores the nuances of relationships, defining yourself, and growing apart from those with whom you were once close. As Joseph reveals, this is a narrative that began in serial installments on a website he once maintained with Noah Van Sciver, but it soon developed into something more complex and ambitious. Most of the interview is devoted to Cartoon Clouds, but Derek also asks his guest about his comic-book series Blindspot and his illustration work with Harvey Pekar. Along the way Joseph talks about his contribution in the upcoming second issue of Now, and he hints at some of the new work he currently has underway. Joseph will be at CAB, Comic Arts Brooklyn, this coming weekend. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by and tell him hello and that you heard him on The Comics Alternative! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:33 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:45 - Interview with Joseph Remnant
  • 01:18:05 - Wrap up
  • 01:19:38 - Contact us

Derek is pleased to have Joseph Remnant on the podcast. His new book, Cartoon Clouds, was released last month from Fantagraphics. This is a graphic novel in the truest sense, a work of fiction that explores the nuances of relationships, defining yourself, and growing apart from those with whom you were once close. As Joseph reveals, this is a narrative that began in serial installments on a website he once maintained with Noah Van Sciver, but it soon developed into something more complex and ambitious. Most of the interview is devoted to Cartoon Clouds, but Derek also asks his guest about his comic-book series Blindspot and his illustration work with Harvey Pekar. Along the way Joseph talks about his contribution in the upcoming second issue of Now, and he hints at some of the new work he currently has underway.

Joseph will be at CAB, Comic Arts Brooklyn, this coming weekend. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by and tell him hello and that you heard him on The Comics Alternative!

]]> 4965 no Webcomics: Reviews of Blindsprings, Albert the Alien, and A Fire Story http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-blindsprings-albert-the-alien-and-a-fire-story Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:11 - Announcements! 00:09:33 - Blindsprings 00:42:07 - Albert the Alien 01:05:02 - A Fire Story 01:24:02 - Wrap up 01:25:27 - Contact us On the November webcomics episode, Sean and Derek look at three very different titles. They begin with Kadi Fedoruk's Blindsprings, a fantasy filled with magic and spirits, but one whose philosophical foundations are deeper than you may at first think. As the guys point out, the meticulous art is one of the highlights of this webcomic. After that, Sean and Derek turn to a lighthearted all-age series by Trevor Mueller and Gabo, Albert the Alien. Much like Blindsprings, this webcomic has been around since 2013, but there seems to be no foreseeable sign of story exhaustion. Finally, the guys look at a much more somber, and timely, completed webcomic, Brian Fies's A Fire Story. This is a brief account of the author's experiences in last month's devastating California fires. The story is heart-wrenching, and Fies includes commentary and photographs to underscore the full extent of the tragedy. Be sure to visit Brian Fies's blog and click on the banners of his two books, Mom's Cancer and Whatever Happened to the World of Tomorrow?. Your purchase of those works will help support Fies as he and his wife attempt to rebuild their lives. Mon, 06 Nov 2017 12:39:22 -0000 Webcomics: Reviews of Blindsprings, Albert the Alien, and A Fire Story full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal From the Ashes Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:11 - Announcements! 00:09:33 - Blindsprings 00:42:07 - Albert the Alien 01:05:02 - A Fire Story 01:24:02 - Wrap up 01:25:27 - Contact us On the November webcomics episode, Sean and Derek look at three very different titles. They begin with Kadi Fedoruk's Blindsprings, a fantasy filled with magic and spirits, but one whose philosophical foundations are deeper than you may at first think. As the guys point out, the meticulous art is one of the highlights of this webcomic. After that, Sean and Derek turn to a lighthearted all-age series by Trevor Mueller and Gabo, Albert the Alien. Much like Blindsprings, this webcomic has been around since 2013, but there seems to be no foreseeable sign of story exhaustion. Finally, the guys look at a much more somber, and timely, completed webcomic, Brian Fies's A Fire Story. This is a brief account of the author's experiences in last month's devastating California fires. The story is heart-wrenching, and Fies includes commentary and photographs to underscore the full extent of the tragedy. Be sure to visit Brian Fies's blog and click on the banners of his two books, Mom's Cancer and Whatever Happened to the World of Tomorrow?. Your purchase of those works will help support Fies as he and his wife attempt to rebuild their lives. Time Codes:

On the November webcomics episode, Sean and Derek look at three very different titles. They begin with Kadi Fedoruk's Blindsprings, a fantasy filled with magic and spirits, but one whose philosophical foundations are deeper than you may at first think. As the guys point out, the meticulous art is one of the highlights of this webcomic. After that, Sean and Derek turn to a lighthearted all-age series by Trevor Mueller and Gabo, Albert the Alien. Much like Blindsprings, this webcomic has been around since 2013, but there seems to be no foreseeable sign of story exhaustion. Finally, the guys look at a much more somber, and timely, completed webcomic, Brian Fies's A Fire Story. This is a brief account of the author's experiences in last month's devastating California fires. The story is heart-wrenching, and Fies includes commentary and photographs to underscore the full extent of the tragedy.

Be sure to visit Brian Fies's blog and click on the banners of his two books, Mom's Cancer and Whatever Happened to the World of Tomorrow?. Your purchase of those works will help support Fies as he and his wife attempt to rebuild their lives.

]]> 5339 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: SCI: The Jewish Comics Anthology, Vol. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-sci-the-jewish-comics-anthology-vol-2 For the second episode of The Comics Alternative's new Kickstarter series, Derek talks with Andy Stanleigh and Steven Bergson about their project, SCI: The Jewish Comics Anthology, Vol. 2. This book will be released by Alternate History Comics (of which Andy is the publisher), and it will follow Steven's first volume of The Jewish Comics Anthology, also published by AH Comics. What will distinguish this second collection is that each of the retellings from Jewish history, legend, and myth will be set in a science-fiction setting. Contributors to this anthology will include Ty Templeton (Batman, Spiderman, The Simpsons) Rachel Pollack (Doom Patrol) Bill Sienkiewicz (Daredevil, X-Men, Batman) Neil Kleid (X-Men Unlimited, Tales From the Crypt) Adam Gorham (Rocket, X-Files/TMNT, Dead Drop) Weshoyot Alvitre (The Boys Who Became Hummingbirds) Joe Infurnari (The Bunker, Evolution) David Mack (Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Fight Club) Katherine Piro (The Chaste Maid) Michael Netzer (Batman, Superman) Clifford Meth (Comic Book Babylon, Heroes and Villains) Jake Allen (Kings and Canvas) Keith Grachow (Concrete Martians, Saltwater) Liat Shalom (A Grave Matter) Shane Kirshenblatt (Dorothy Gale: Journey to Oz, Bleeding Tree) Trina Robbins (The Legend of Wonder Woman, Chicagoland) and more! To back this project, and to learn more about the many rewards levels, visit their Kickstarter site, or head on over to the Alternative History Comics website. Sample Art Cover   "Babel" - Neil Kleid and Jake Allen   "Stone Soup" - Keith Grachow   Sat, 04 Nov 2017 12:07:45 -0000 Comics Alternative Kickstarter: SCI: The Jewish Comics Anthology, Vol. 2 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Out of This World Jewish Stories For the second episode of The Comics Alternative's new Kickstarter series, Derek talks with Andy Stanleigh and Steven Bergson about their project, SCI: The Jewish Comics Anthology, Vol. 2. This book will be released by Alternate History Comics (of which Andy is the publisher), and it will follow Steven's first volume of The Jewish Comics Anthology, also published by AH Comics. What will distinguish this second collection is that each of the retellings from Jewish history, legend, and myth will be set in a science-fiction setting. Contributors to this anthology will include Ty Templeton (Batman, Spiderman, The Simpsons) Rachel Pollack (Doom Patrol) Bill Sienkiewicz (Daredevil, X-Men, Batman) Neil Kleid (X-Men Unlimited, Tales From the Crypt) Adam Gorham (Rocket, X-Files/TMNT, Dead Drop) Weshoyot Alvitre (The Boys Who Became Hummingbirds) Joe Infurnari (The Bunker, Evolution) David Mack (Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Fight Club) Katherine Piro (The Chaste Maid) Michael Netzer (Batman, Superman) Clifford Meth (Comic Book Babylon, Heroes and Villains) Jake Allen (Kings and Canvas) Keith Grachow (Concrete Martians, Saltwater) Liat Shalom (A Grave Matter) Shane Kirshenblatt (Dorothy Gale: Journey to Oz, Bleeding Tree) Trina Robbins (The Legend of Wonder Woman, Chicagoland) and more! To back this project, and to learn more about the many rewards levels, visit their Kickstarter site, or head on over to the Alternative History Comics website. Sample Art Cover   "Babel" - Neil Kleid and Jake Allen   "Stone Soup" - Keith Grachow  

For the second episode of The Comics Alternative's new Kickstarter series, Derek talks with Andy Stanleigh and Steven Bergson about their project, SCI: The Jewish Comics Anthology, Vol. 2. This book will be released by Alternate History Comics (of which Andy is the publisher), and it will follow Steven's first volume of The Jewish Comics Anthology, also published by AH Comics. What will distinguish this second collection is that each of the retellings from Jewish history, legend, and myth will be set in a science-fiction setting. Contributors to this anthology will include

  • Ty Templeton (Batman, Spiderman, The Simpsons)
  • Rachel Pollack (Doom Patrol)
  • Bill Sienkiewicz (Daredevil, X-Men, Batman)
  • Neil Kleid (X-Men Unlimited, Tales From the Crypt)
  • Adam Gorham (Rocket, X-Files/TMNT, Dead Drop)
  • Weshoyot Alvitre (The Boys Who Became Hummingbirds)
  • Joe Infurnari (The Bunker, Evolution)
  • David Mack (Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Fight Club)
  • Katherine Piro (The Chaste Maid)
  • Michael Netzer (Batman, Superman)
  • Clifford Meth (Comic Book Babylon, Heroes and Villains)
  • Jake Allen (Kings and Canvas)
  • Keith Grachow (Concrete Martians, Saltwater)
  • Liat Shalom (A Grave Matter)
  • Shane Kirshenblatt (Dorothy Gale: Journey to Oz, Bleeding Tree)
  • Trina Robbins (The Legend of Wonder Woman, Chicagoland)
  • and more!

To back this project, and to learn more about the many rewards levels, visit their Kickstarter site, or head on over to the Alternative History Comics website.

Sample Art

Cover

 

"Babel" - Neil Kleid and Jake Allen

 

"Stone Soup" - Keith Grachow

 

]]> 1158 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-deb-olin-unferth-and-elizabeth-haidle Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:39 - Setup of interview 03:51 - Interview with Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle 51:36 - Wrap up 52:27 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle on the publication of their new book, I, Parrot (Black Balloon-Catapult). This is a graphic novel in the truest sense, a work of fiction, about a middle-aged woman who's prone to bad luck. She stumbles upon a bird-sitting job, caring for an aviary of exotic, rare, and very expensive parrots, and despite the help of her boyfriend and her young son, falls prey to a series of misfortunes that lead to unintended, yet not entirely tragic, consequences. Both Deb and Beth share their experiences working together on this project, the collaborative rhythm they established, and how their previous creations reflect on this graphic novel. This is Deb's first work in comics, having previously established a career as a writer of prose fiction. And while Beth's experiences in comics art is more extensive, this is her first effort in "adult" long-form graphic narrative. Derek also asks his guests about their other current projects and any possible plans to collaborate on future projects. Fri, 03 Nov 2017 11:47:00 -0000 An Interview with Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bad Luck Is for the Bird Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:39 - Setup of interview 03:51 - Interview with Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle 51:36 - Wrap up 52:27 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle on the publication of their new book, I, Parrot (Black Balloon-Catapult). This is a graphic novel in the truest sense, a work of fiction, about a middle-aged woman who's prone to bad luck. She stumbles upon a bird-sitting job, caring for an aviary of exotic, rare, and very expensive parrots, and despite the help of her boyfriend and her young son, falls prey to a series of misfortunes that lead to unintended, yet not entirely tragic, consequences. Both Deb and Beth share their experiences working together on this project, the collaborative rhythm they established, and how their previous creations reflect on this graphic novel. This is Deb's first work in comics, having previously established a career as a writer of prose fiction. And while Beth's experiences in comics art is more extensive, this is her first effort in "adult" long-form graphic narrative. Derek also asks his guests about their other current projects and any possible plans to collaborate on future projects. Time Codes:

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Deb Olin Unferth and Elizabeth Haidle on the publication of their new book, I, Parrot (Black Balloon-Catapult). This is a graphic novel in the truest sense, a work of fiction, about a middle-aged woman who's prone to bad luck. She stumbles upon a bird-sitting job, caring for an aviary of exotic, rare, and very expensive parrots, and despite the help of her boyfriend and her young son, falls prey to a series of misfortunes that lead to unintended, yet not entirely tragic, consequences. Both Deb and Beth share their experiences working together on this project, the collaborative rhythm they established, and how their previous creations reflect on this graphic novel. This is Deb's first work in comics, having previously established a career as a writer of prose fiction. And while Beth's experiences in comics art is more extensive, this is her first effort in "adult" long-form graphic narrative. Derek also asks his guests about their other current projects and any possible plans to collaborate on future projects.

]]> 3327 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Katie Green http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-katie-green Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 03:04 - Setup of interview 05:16 - Interview with Katie Green 56:39 - Wrap up 58:06 - Contact us On this interview episode, Paul and Derek talk with Katie Green about her recent graphic memoir Lighter Than My Shadow, released last month from Lion Forge's Roar imprint. The Two Guys reviewed the book a couple of weeks ago, but they were so moved by Green's story that they wanted to have her on the podcast to talk about her work. This insightful conversation adds more context and texture to Katie's memoir, and she shares her struggles in narrating her various traumatic experiences, her art background and its translation into memoir comics, and her desires to reach others, specifically younger readers, who may similarly suffer from eating disorders and sexual abuse. Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:50:11 -0000 An Interview with Katie Green full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Art and Struggles Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 03:04 - Setup of interview 05:16 - Interview with Katie Green 56:39 - Wrap up 58:06 - Contact us On this interview episode, Paul and Derek talk with Katie Green about her recent graphic memoir Lighter Than My Shadow, released last month from Lion Forge's Roar imprint. The Two Guys reviewed the book a couple of weeks ago, but they were so moved by Green's story that they wanted to have her on the podcast to talk about her work. This insightful conversation adds more context and texture to Katie's memoir, and she shares her struggles in narrating her various traumatic experiences, her art background and its translation into memoir comics, and her desires to reach others, specifically younger readers, who may similarly suffer from eating disorders and sexual abuse. Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 03:04 - Setup of interview
  • 05:16 - Interview with Katie Green
  • 56:39 - Wrap up
  • 58:06 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Paul and Derek talk with Katie Green about her recent graphic memoir Lighter Than My Shadow, released last month from Lion Forge's Roar imprint. The Two Guys reviewed the book a couple of weeks ago, but they were so moved by Green's story that they wanted to have her on the podcast to talk about her work. This insightful conversation adds more context and texture to Katie's memoir, and she shares her struggles in narrating her various traumatic experiences, her art background and its translation into memoir comics, and her desires to reach others, specifically younger readers, who may similarly suffer from eating disorders and sexual abuse.

]]> 3665 no Episode 255: The November Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-255-the-november-previews-catalog On this month's Previews episode, Gwen and Derek join forces to highlight the various November solicits that strike their fancy. In fact, this is Gwen's first time doing a Previews show, but she comes across as an old hand and suggests some wonderful upcoming titles that are sure to resonate with listeners. But first, the Two Academics Talking about Comics send out a BIG thank you to two dedicated -- and two very talented -- listeners, Holly English and Marc Casilli. Both have recently shared copies of their own self-published comics, and Gwen and Derek give them a shout-out and discuss how impressed they are with the issues. After that they announce The Comics Alternative's brand new Slack channel, inviting listeners to join up and take part in the discussion community. But after these announcements, they get to the heart of this week's Previews episode. Among the comics and graphic novels Gwen and Derek recommend are: Dark Horse Comics - Hungry Ghosts #1, Vinegar Teeth #1, Contract with God Curator's Collection, and The Paybacks Collection DC/Vertigo - The Terrifics #1, Swamp Thing Winter Special, and Motherlands #1 IDW Publishing - Frankenstein Alive, Alive #4, Time and Vine, Saucer State, The Goat Getters, and Violette around the World, Vol. 1: My Head in the Clouds Image Comics - Days of Hate #1, The Further Adventures of Nick Wilson #1, Ice Cream Man #1, Get Naked, and Spy Seal, Vol. 1: The Corten-Steel Phoenix Abstract Studios - Strangers in Paradise XXV #1 Abrams ComicArts - My Friend Dahmer (Movie Tie-In Edition) Archie Comics - Chilling Adventures in Sorcery Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Tales from the Hyperverse BOOM! Studios - Abbott #1 Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: The Body #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Red Winter and Kitaro, Vol. 5: Kitaro the Vampire Slayer Fantagraphics Books - Trump's ABC, Now #2, Compulsive Comics, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner, and Showtime Henry Holt - Hammy and Gerbee: Mummies at the Museum Hill and Wang - Three-Fifths a Man: A Graphic History of the African American Experience Humanoids - Gregory and the Gargoyles, Book 2 Kodansha Comics - Ghost in the Shell Complete Boxed Set and A Silent Voice Complete Series Boxed Set Lion Forge - The Dream of the Butterfly New York Review Comics - Yellow Negros and Other Imaginary Creatures Oni Press - Archival Quality Seven Seas Entertainment - Orange: Future Seven Stories Press - The Epic of Gilgamesh Titan Comics - Atlas and Axis #1, Babylon Berlin, and Death to the Tsar University Press of Mississippi - The Canadian Alternative: Cartoonists, Comics, and Graphic Novels Be sure to visit the websites of both Holly English and Marc Casilli and discover their wonderful art and comics! And remember, check out The Comics Alternative's new Slack channel! Wed, 01 Nov 2017 11:21:01 -0000 The November Previews Catalog full 255 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "You can't beat good-looking snow" On this month's Previews episode, Gwen and Derek join forces to highlight the various November solicits that strike their fancy. In fact, this is Gwen's first time doing a Previews show, but she comes across as an old hand and suggests some wonderful upcoming titles that are sure to resonate with listeners. But first, the Two Academics Talking about Comics send out a BIG thank you to two dedicated -- and two very talented -- listeners, Holly English and Marc Casilli. Both have recently shared copies of their own self-published comics, and Gwen and Derek give them a shout-out and discuss how impressed they are with the issues. After that they announce The Comics Alternative's brand new Slack channel, inviting listeners to join up and take part in the discussion community. But after these announcements, they get to the heart of this week's Previews episode. Among the comics and graphic novels Gwen and Derek recommend are: Dark Horse Comics - Hungry Ghosts #1, Vinegar Teeth #1, Contract with God Curator's Collection, and The Paybacks Collection DC/Vertigo - The Terrifics #1, Swamp Thing Winter Special, and Motherlands #1 IDW Publishing - Frankenstein Alive, Alive #4, Time and Vine, Saucer State, The Goat Getters, and Violette around the World, Vol. 1: My Head in the Clouds Image Comics - Days of Hate #1, The Further Adventures of Nick Wilson #1, Ice Cream Man #1, Get Naked, and Spy Seal, Vol. 1: The Corten-Steel Phoenix Abstract Studios - Strangers in Paradise XXV #1 Abrams ComicArts - My Friend Dahmer (Movie Tie-In Edition) Archie Comics - Chilling Adventures in Sorcery Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Tales from the Hyperverse BOOM! Studios - Abbott #1 Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: The Body #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Red Winter and Kitaro, Vol. 5: Kitaro the Vampire Slayer Fantagraphics Books - Trump's ABC, Now #2, Compulsive Comics, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner, and Showtime Henry Holt - Hammy and Gerbee: Mummies at the Museum Hill and Wang - Three-Fifths a Man: A Graphic History of the African American Experience Humanoids - Gregory and the Gargoyles, Book 2 Kodansha Comics - Ghost in the Shell Complete Boxed Set and A Silent Voice Complete Series Boxed Set Lion Forge - The Dream of the Butterfly New York Review Comics - Yellow Negros and Other Imaginary Creatures Oni Press - Archival Quality Seven Seas Entertainment - Orange: Future Seven Stories Press - The Epic of Gilgamesh Titan Comics - Atlas and Axis #1, Babylon Berlin, and Death to the Tsar University Press of Mississippi - The Canadian Alternative: Cartoonists, Comics, and Graphic Novels Be sure to visit the websites of both Holly English and Marc Casilli and discover their wonderful art and comics! And remember, check out The Comics Alternative's new Slack channel!

On this month's Previews episode, Gwen and Derek join forces to highlight the various November solicits that strike their fancy. In fact, this is Gwen's first time doing a Previews show, but she comes across as an old hand and suggests some wonderful upcoming titles that are sure to resonate with listeners. But first, the Two Academics Talking about Comics send out a BIG thank you to two dedicated -- and two very talented -- listeners, Holly English and Marc Casilli. Both have recently shared copies of their own self-published comics, and Gwen and Derek give them a shout-out and discuss how impressed they are with the issues. After that they announce The Comics Alternative's brand new Slack channel, inviting listeners to join up and take part in the discussion community. But after these announcements, they get to the heart of this week's Previews episode. Among the comics and graphic novels Gwen and Derek recommend are:

Be sure to visit the websites of both Holly English and Marc Casilli and discover their wonderful art and comics! And remember, check out The Comics Alternative's new Slack channel!]]> 5802 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Julia Wertz http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-julia-wertz Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Setup of interview 00:04:29 - Interview with Julia Wertz 01:10:16 - Wrap up 01:12:40 - Contact us On this interview episode, Paul and Derek are pleased to have Julia Wertz on the podcast. Her new book, Tenements, Towers and Trash: An Unconventional Illustrated History of New York City, came out earlier this month from Black Dog and Leventhal Publishers. As the subtitle suggests, this is a different kind of history, a guide to the Big Apple's present as well as its past, investigating its architecture, its businesses, its facades, its entertainment venues, and the many colorful figures who have populated its boroughs. The guys talk with Julia about how different this book is from her previous works -- e.g., Drinking at the Movies, The Infinite Wait and Other Stories, Fart Party -- which are primarily autobiographical. For this project, the author considered herself an urban explorer, forgoing the inward gaze and focusing instead on the city that she called home between 2007 and 2016. Tenements, Towers and Trash includes a variety of stories that compose its past, and punctuating the text is a series of before-and-after illustrations of storefronts and city blocks that underscore New York's ever-changing nature. This isn't a nostalgic look back at what once had been, but a chronicle of a dynamic urban space in the process of becoming. And of course, the book has more than its share of Julia's poignant, even laugh-out-loud, humor.   Tue, 31 Oct 2017 09:13:55 -0000 An Interview with Julia Wertz full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Screw Cronuts! Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Setup of interview 00:04:29 - Interview with Julia Wertz 01:10:16 - Wrap up 01:12:40 - Contact us On this interview episode, Paul and Derek are pleased to have Julia Wertz on the podcast. Her new book, Tenements, Towers and Trash: An Unconventional Illustrated History of New York City, came out earlier this month from Black Dog and Leventhal Publishers. As the subtitle suggests, this is a different kind of history, a guide to the Big Apple's present as well as its past, investigating its architecture, its businesses, its facades, its entertainment venues, and the many colorful figures who have populated its boroughs. The guys talk with Julia about how different this book is from her previous works -- e.g., Drinking at the Movies, The Infinite Wait and Other Stories, Fart Party -- which are primarily autobiographical. For this project, the author considered herself an urban explorer, forgoing the inward gaze and focusing instead on the city that she called home between 2007 and 2016. Tenements, Towers and Trash includes a variety of stories that compose its past, and punctuating the text is a series of before-and-after illustrations of storefronts and city blocks that underscore New York's ever-changing nature. This isn't a nostalgic look back at what once had been, but a chronicle of a dynamic urban space in the process of becoming. And of course, the book has more than its share of Julia's poignant, even laugh-out-loud, humor.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:39 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:29 - Interview with Julia Wertz
  • 01:10:16 - Wrap up
  • 01:12:40 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Paul and Derek are pleased to have Julia Wertz on the podcast. Her new book, Tenements, Towers and Trash: An Unconventional Illustrated History of New York City, came out earlier this month from Black Dog and Leventhal Publishers. As the subtitle suggests, this is a different kind of history, a guide to the Big Apple's present as well as its past, investigating its architecture, its businesses, its facades, its entertainment venues, and the many colorful figures who have populated its boroughs. The guys talk with Julia about how different this book is from her previous works -- e.g., Drinking at the Movies, The Infinite Wait and Other Stories, Fart Party -- which are primarily autobiographical. For this project, the author considered herself an urban explorer, forgoing the inward gaze and focusing instead on the city that she called home between 2007 and 2016. Tenements, Towers and Trash includes a variety of stories that compose its past, and punctuating the text is a series of before-and-after illustrations of storefronts and city blocks that underscore New York's ever-changing nature. This isn't a nostalgic look back at what once had been, but a chronicle of a dynamic urban space in the process of becoming. And of course, the book has more than its share of Julia's poignant, even laugh-out-loud, humor.

 

]]> 4538 yes Manga: A Discussion of Horror Manga 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-a-discussion-of-horror-manga-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:10 - Setting up this year's manga horror show 00:06:52 - Domu: A Child's Dream 00:31:12 - Panorama of Hell 00:56:25 - Mail 01:12:42 - Dissolving Classroom 01:32:47 - H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories 01:52:51 - Neo Parasyte M 02:03:12 - Wrap up 02:04:39 - Contact us Shea and Derek are back with their second manga episode of the month! On this show, they discuss several horror manga that will get you in the mood for Halloween tomorrow. As they did last year, the Two Manga Guys are both thrilled and chilled with by introducing listeners to a variety creepy titles, some older and some brand new. They begin with Katsuhiro Otomo's Domu: A Child's Dream (Dark Horse Manga), a story that is probably the least horrific of those discussed, but it's nonetheless one of the guys' favorites on this episode. As the guys point out, it's a shame that Otomo's canonical Akira tends to overshadows other impressive efforts such as Domu. After that they look at a markedly different kind of horror manga, Hideshi Hino's Panorama of Hell (Blast Books). This is a very violent and blood-filled work, so if you have a weak reading constitution, this might be a challenge for you. After that they cover the three-volume Mail, written and drawn by Housui Yamazaki (Dark Horse Manga). As Derek describes, this is a "lighter" narrative compared to some of the others discussed, but one that nonetheless has them wanting more. From there Shea and Derek turn to a favorite creator of theirs, Junji Ito. However, his latest graphic cycle, Dissolving Classroom (Vertical Comics) is definitely not what they have come to expect from the horror mangaka. Somewhat similar to Fragments of Horror, which the guys discussed last year, Ito relies a little too heavily on over-the-top graphics at the expense of any bedrock terror. But the guys are more impressed with Gou Tanabe's H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories (Dark Horse Manga), an adaptation of three classic Lovecraft stories. In addition to the titular reference, Tanabe also presents manga versions of "The Temple" and "The Nameless City." Finally, Shea and Derek discuss Neo Parasyte M (Kodansha Comics), the latest anthology inspired by Hitoshi Iwaaki's Parasyte, which ran between 1988 and 1995. Including contributions from a wide variety of creators, this volume is similar to last year's Neo Parasyte F, which the guys discussed on the 2016 manga horror episode. However, they enjoyed this anthology even more than last year's. Mon, 30 Oct 2017 11:57:23 -0000 A Discussion of Horror Manga 2017 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "There's a lot of greasy ooze in this text" Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:10 - Setting up this year's manga horror show 00:06:52 - Domu: A Child's Dream 00:31:12 - Panorama of Hell 00:56:25 - Mail 01:12:42 - Dissolving Classroom 01:32:47 - H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories 01:52:51 - Neo Parasyte M 02:03:12 - Wrap up 02:04:39 - Contact us Shea and Derek are back with their second manga episode of the month! On this show, they discuss several horror manga that will get you in the mood for Halloween tomorrow. As they did last year, the Two Manga Guys are both thrilled and chilled with by introducing listeners to a variety creepy titles, some older and some brand new. They begin with Katsuhiro Otomo's Domu: A Child's Dream (Dark Horse Manga), a story that is probably the least horrific of those discussed, but it's nonetheless one of the guys' favorites on this episode. As the guys point out, it's a shame that Otomo's canonical Akira tends to overshadows other impressive efforts such as Domu. After that they look at a markedly different kind of horror manga, Hideshi Hino's Panorama of Hell (Blast Books). This is a very violent and blood-filled work, so if you have a weak reading constitution, this might be a challenge for you. After that they cover the three-volume Mail, written and drawn by Housui Yamazaki (Dark Horse Manga). As Derek describes, this is a "lighter" narrative compared to some of the others discussed, but one that nonetheless has them wanting more. From there Shea and Derek turn to a favorite creator of theirs, Junji Ito. However, his latest graphic cycle, Dissolving Classroom (Vertical Comics) is definitely not what they have come to expect from the horror mangaka. Somewhat similar to Fragments of Horror, which the guys discussed last year, Ito relies a little too heavily on over-the-top graphics at the expense of any bedrock terror. But the guys are more impressed with Gou Tanabe's H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories (Dark Horse Manga), an adaptation of three classic Lovecraft stories. In addition to the titular reference, Tanabe also presents manga versions of "The Temple" and "The Nameless City." Finally, Shea and Derek discuss Neo Parasyte M (Kodansha Comics), the latest anthology inspired by Hitoshi Iwaaki's Parasyte, which ran between 1988 and 1995. Including contributions from a wide variety of creators, this volume is similar to last year's Neo Parasyte F, which the guys discussed on the 2016 manga horror episode. However, they enjoyed this anthology even more than last year's. Time Codes:

Shea and Derek are back with their second manga episode of the month! On this show, they discuss several horror manga that will get you in the mood for Halloween tomorrow. As they did last year, the Two Manga Guys are both thrilled and chilled with by introducing listeners to a variety creepy titles, some older and some brand new. They begin with Katsuhiro Otomo's Domu: A Child's Dream (Dark Horse Manga), a story that is probably the least horrific of those discussed, but it's nonetheless one of the guys' favorites on this episode. As the guys point out, it's a shame that Otomo's canonical Akira tends to overshadows other impressive efforts such as Domu. After that they look at a markedly different kind of horror manga, Hideshi Hino's Panorama of Hell (Blast Books). This is a very violent and blood-filled work, so if you have a weak reading constitution, this might be a challenge for you. After that they cover the three-volume Mail, written and drawn by Housui Yamazaki (Dark Horse Manga). As Derek describes, this is a "lighter" narrative compared to some of the others discussed, but one that nonetheless has them wanting more.

From there Shea and Derek turn to a favorite creator of theirs, Junji Ito. However, his latest graphic cycle, Dissolving Classroom (Vertical Comics) is definitely not what they have come to expect from the horror mangaka. Somewhat similar to Fragments of Horror, which the guys discussed last year, Ito relies a little too heavily on over-the-top graphics at the expense of any bedrock terror. But the guys are more impressed with Gou Tanabe's H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories (Dark Horse Manga), an adaptation of three classic Lovecraft stories. In addition to the titular reference, Tanabe also presents manga versions of "The Temple" and "The Nameless City." Finally, Shea and Derek discuss Neo Parasyte M (Kodansha Comics), the latest anthology inspired by Hitoshi Iwaaki's Parasyte, which ran between 1988 and 1995. Including contributions from a wide variety of creators, this volume is similar to last year's Neo Parasyte F, which the guys discussed on the 2016 manga horror episode. However, they enjoyed this anthology even more than last year's.

]]> 7685 no Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Wayward Sisters http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-kickstarter-wayward-sisters The Comics Alternative is launching a brand new weekly series devoted to independent, small-press, and creator-owned Kickstarter campaigns that are comics-related. Every Saturday morning you'll hear a brief conversation with a creator, or creative team, with a Kickstarter campaign underway, where Derek talks with them about their project, the story behind their ideas, the various levels of support, and why listeners should back their efforts. Since the vast majority of creators on Kickstarter are self-publishing or with very small presses, it just makes sense that The Comics Alternative help give voice to these projects. On this inaugural episode of the series, Derek talks with Allison O'Toole about TO Comix Press' Wayward Sisters: An Anthology of Monstrous Women. She serves as the lead editor of this collection, which will include 25 stories from 38 writers and artists. As Allison reveals, what distinguishes this anthology is its focus is on non-binary and female monsters drawn and written by creators from all over the world and who identify as women or gender-nonconforming. It's a fascinating endeavor and worth backing. Be sure to check out their Kickstarter site, and for more information, visit the Wayward Sisters website. You can learn more about the project by contacting the creators via social media: Twitter twitter.com/WSanthology Facebook facebook.com/waywardsistersanthology Instagram instagram.com/waywardsistersanthology Tumblr waywardsistersanthology.tumblr.com   Sample Art Cover   "Best Boo" - Megan Kearney   "The Wife's Shadow" - Janice Liu   Sat, 28 Oct 2017 11:54:39 -0000 Comics Alternative Kickstarter: Wayward Sisters full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Brand New Weekly Series! The Comics Alternative is launching a brand new weekly series devoted to independent, small-press, and creator-owned Kickstarter campaigns that are comics-related. Every Saturday morning you'll hear a brief conversation with a creator, or creative team, with a Kickstarter campaign underway, where Derek talks with them about their project, the story behind their ideas, the various levels of support, and why listeners should back their efforts. Since the vast majority of creators on Kickstarter are self-publishing or with very small presses, it just makes sense that The Comics Alternative help give voice to these projects. On this inaugural episode of the series, Derek talks with Allison O'Toole about TO Comix Press' Wayward Sisters: An Anthology of Monstrous Women. She serves as the lead editor of this collection, which will include 25 stories from 38 writers and artists. As Allison reveals, what distinguishes this anthology is its focus is on non-binary and female monsters drawn and written by creators from all over the world and who identify as women or gender-nonconforming. It's a fascinating endeavor and worth backing. Be sure to check out their Kickstarter site, and for more information, visit the Wayward Sisters website. You can learn more about the project by contacting the creators via social media: Twitter twitter.com/WSanthology Facebook facebook.com/waywardsistersanthology Instagram instagram.com/waywardsistersanthology Tumblr waywardsistersanthology.tumblr.com   Sample Art Cover   "Best Boo" - Megan Kearney   "The Wife's Shadow" - Janice Liu   The Comics Alternative is launching a brand new weekly series devoted to independent, small-press, and creator-owned Kickstarter campaigns that are comics-related. Every Saturday morning you'll hear a brief conversation with a creator, or creative team, with a Kickstarter campaign underway, where Derek talks with them about their project, the story behind their ideas, the various levels of support, and why listeners should back their efforts. Since the vast majority of creators on Kickstarter are self-publishing or with very small presses, it just makes sense that The Comics Alternative help give voice to these projects.

On this inaugural episode of the series, Derek talks with Allison O'Toole about TO Comix Press' Wayward Sisters: An Anthology of Monstrous Women. She serves as the lead editor of this collection, which will include 25 stories from 38 writers and artists. As Allison reveals, what distinguishes this anthology is its focus is on non-binary and female monsters drawn and written by creators from all over the world and who identify as women or gender-nonconforming. It's a fascinating endeavor and worth backing.

Be sure to check out their Kickstarter site, and for more information, visit the Wayward Sisters website. You can learn more about the project by contacting the creators via social media:

Twitter twitter.com/WSanthology

Facebook facebook.com/waywardsistersanthology

Instagram instagram.com/waywardsistersanthology

Tumblr waywardsistersanthology.tumblr.com

 

Sample Art

Cover

 

"Best Boo" - Megan Kearney

 

"The Wife's Shadow" - Janice Liu

 

]]> 1089 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Andy Hirsch http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-andy-hirsch Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:55 - Setup of interview 04:20 - Interview with Andy Hirsch 57:15 - Wrap up 59:51 - Contact us Andy Hirsch is back on the podcast, and this time he talks with Gwen and Derek about his new book, Science Comics: Dogs: From Predator to Protector. This is the next volume in First Second's important Science Comics series, one that uses comics to educate both younger readers and adults. In fact, Gwen and Derek spend a lot of time asking Andy his illustrative strategies for taking complex concepts and making them understandable to a broader audience. There is a lot of science packed into this book, and not all of it specifically devoted to canines. But Andy uses colorful charts and graphs, as well as particularly effective storytelling conventions, to present his dense subject matter. Guiding the reader through all of this information is Rudy, the lovable mixed-breed narrator who, in many ways, functions as a stand-in for Andy Hirsch himself. Over the course of the interview, Derek and Gwen talk with their guest not only about the new book, its genesis, and Andy's growing association with First Second, but they also share their own love of and histories with dogs, making this episode of the interview series somewhat of a canine lovefest. Fri, 27 Oct 2017 10:32:53 -0000 Another Interview with Andy Hirsch full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Acorn Flipper Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:55 - Setup of interview 04:20 - Interview with Andy Hirsch 57:15 - Wrap up 59:51 - Contact us Andy Hirsch is back on the podcast, and this time he talks with Gwen and Derek about his new book, Science Comics: Dogs: From Predator to Protector. This is the next volume in First Second's important Science Comics series, one that uses comics to educate both younger readers and adults. In fact, Gwen and Derek spend a lot of time asking Andy his illustrative strategies for taking complex concepts and making them understandable to a broader audience. There is a lot of science packed into this book, and not all of it specifically devoted to canines. But Andy uses colorful charts and graphs, as well as particularly effective storytelling conventions, to present his dense subject matter. Guiding the reader through all of this information is Rudy, the lovable mixed-breed narrator who, in many ways, functions as a stand-in for Andy Hirsch himself. Over the course of the interview, Derek and Gwen talk with their guest not only about the new book, its genesis, and Andy's growing association with First Second, but they also share their own love of and histories with dogs, making this episode of the interview series somewhat of a canine lovefest. Time Codes:

  • 00:25 - Introduction
  • 02:55 - Setup of interview
  • 04:20 - Interview with Andy Hirsch
  • 57:15 - Wrap up
  • 59:51 - Contact us

Andy Hirsch is back on the podcast, and this time he talks with Gwen and Derek about his new book, Science Comics: Dogs: From Predator to Protector. This is the next volume in First Second's important Science Comics series, one that uses comics to educate both younger readers and adults. In fact, Gwen and Derek spend a lot of time asking Andy his illustrative strategies for taking complex concepts and making them understandable to a broader audience. There is a lot of science packed into this book, and not all of it specifically devoted to canines. But Andy uses colorful charts and graphs, as well as particularly effective storytelling conventions, to present his dense subject matter. Guiding the reader through all of this information is Rudy, the lovable mixed-breed narrator who, in many ways, functions as a stand-in for Andy Hirsch himself. Over the course of the interview, Derek and Gwen talk with their guest not only about the new book, its genesis, and Andy's growing association with First Second, but they also share their own love of and histories with dogs, making this episode of the interview series somewhat of a canine lovefest.

]]> 3779 no Comics Alternative Interviews: R. Sikoryak http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-r-sikoryak Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:56 - Setup of interview 00:04:17 - Interview with R. Sikoryak 01:12:42 - Wrap up 01:13:32 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with R. Sikoryak about his latest work, The Unquotable Trump, just released this week by Drawn and Quarterly. The conversation begins with Bob's apologies for having to write the book and his distaste for the subject matter. But as he makes clear in the interview, these cartoons are his way of dealing with what he feels is a malignant force unleashed by last year's election. In fact, Bob reveals that the genesis of The Unquotable Trump actually dates from the days before the election, when he was using the figure of Donald Trump -- and more importantly, the candidate's own words -- in classic comic-book cover parodies as a way of trying to vent his anger. These black-and-white illustrations originally appeared in a minicomic released back in January, but his publisher, Drawn and Quarterly, convinced him to create more parodic illustrations and release them in a 48-page color volume, oversized in the style of a 1970s Marvel Treasury Edition. Each page of The Unquotable Trump displays a parody of a classic comic-book cover with the figure of Trump inserted, spouting off comments that the real-life candidate-turned-president actually made. Among the many stylistic allusions Bob makes are to such legends as Jack Kirby, Wally Wood, Bob Montana, Jerry Robinson, Carl Barks, John Romita, Gil Kane, and C.C. Beck. In fact, Sikoryak documents all of his comics references in the back of the text, along with a bibliography of Trump's actual quotes. But although most of the interview is devoted to the new book, Derek also talks with Bob about other topics, such as Terms and Conditions, the complete colorized volume of what had originally been published as the two-issue mini-comic, The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions (originally reviewed on The Comics Alternative a couple of years ago), his ongoing work mashing up comics and classic literature, and the genesis of his parodying impulses, reaching back to his days working with Art Spiegelman on Raw.   Thu, 26 Oct 2017 00:46:53 -0000 An Interview with R. Sikoryak full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Parody. Big League. Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:56 - Setup of interview 00:04:17 - Interview with R. Sikoryak 01:12:42 - Wrap up 01:13:32 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with R. Sikoryak about his latest work, The Unquotable Trump, just released this week by Drawn and Quarterly. The conversation begins with Bob's apologies for having to write the book and his distaste for the subject matter. But as he makes clear in the interview, these cartoons are his way of dealing with what he feels is a malignant force unleashed by last year's election. In fact, Bob reveals that the genesis of The Unquotable Trump actually dates from the days before the election, when he was using the figure of Donald Trump -- and more importantly, the candidate's own words -- in classic comic-book cover parodies as a way of trying to vent his anger. These black-and-white illustrations originally appeared in a minicomic released back in January, but his publisher, Drawn and Quarterly, convinced him to create more parodic illustrations and release them in a 48-page color volume, oversized in the style of a 1970s Marvel Treasury Edition. Each page of The Unquotable Trump displays a parody of a classic comic-book cover with the figure of Trump inserted, spouting off comments that the real-life candidate-turned-president actually made. Among the many stylistic allusions Bob makes are to such legends as Jack Kirby, Wally Wood, Bob Montana, Jerry Robinson, Carl Barks, John Romita, Gil Kane, and C.C. Beck. In fact, Sikoryak documents all of his comics references in the back of the text, along with a bibliography of Trump's actual quotes. But although most of the interview is devoted to the new book, Derek also talks with Bob about other topics, such as Terms and Conditions, the complete colorized volume of what had originally been published as the two-issue mini-comic, The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions (originally reviewed on The Comics Alternative a couple of years ago), his ongoing work mashing up comics and classic literature, and the genesis of his parodying impulses, reaching back to his days working with Art Spiegelman on Raw.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:56 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:17 - Interview with R. Sikoryak
  • 01:12:42 - Wrap up
  • 01:13:32 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with R. Sikoryak about his latest work, The Unquotable Trump, just released this week by Drawn and Quarterly. The conversation begins with Bob's apologies for having to write the book and his distaste for the subject matter. But as he makes clear in the interview, these cartoons are his way of dealing with what he feels is a malignant force unleashed by last year's election. In fact, Bob reveals that the genesis of The Unquotable Trump actually dates from the days before the election, when he was using the figure of Donald Trump -- and more importantly, the candidate's own words -- in classic comic-book cover parodies as a way of trying to vent his anger. These black-and-white illustrations originally appeared in a minicomic released back in January, but his publisher, Drawn and Quarterly, convinced him to create more parodic illustrations and release them in a 48-page color volume, oversized in the style of a 1970s Marvel Treasury Edition.

Each page of The Unquotable Trump displays a parody of a classic comic-book cover with the figure of Trump inserted, spouting off comments that the real-life candidate-turned-president actually made. Among the many stylistic allusions Bob makes are to such legends as Jack Kirby, Wally Wood, Bob Montana, Jerry Robinson, Carl Barks, John Romita, Gil Kane, and C.C. Beck. In fact, Sikoryak documents all of his comics references in the back of the text, along with a bibliography of Trump's actual quotes. But although most of the interview is devoted to the new book, Derek also talks with Bob about other topics, such as Terms and Conditions, the complete colorized volume of what had originally been published as the two-issue mini-comic, The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions (originally reviewed on The Comics Alternative a couple of years ago), his ongoing work mashing up comics and classic literature, and the genesis of his parodying impulses, reaching back to his days working with Art Spiegelman on Raw.

 

]]> 4587 no Episode 254: Halloween Comics 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-254-halloween-comics-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:05 - Setup of this year's Halloween episode 00:10:40 - Halloween Tales, Vol. 1 00:25:49 - Adventure Time Spoooktacular 2017 00:35:12 - Sherlock Frankenstein and the Legion of Evil & Mr. Higgins Comes Home 00:45:26 - Jughead: The Hunger & Archie Halloween Spectacular 01:02:47 - DC House of Horror 01:13:52 - Spooky and the Strange Tales: Monster Inn & Behind You: One-Shot Horror Stories 01:29:47 - High Moon: Bullet Holes and Bite Marks 01:36:57 - Wrap up 01:38:57 - Contact us Once again, it's that creepy time of the year: the Wednesday before Halloween. And as the Two Guys have done for the past several years, they're using this occasion to highlight a variety of Halloween-specific and recent horror titles. This time around, Paul joins Derek in discussing a variety of comics, ten in all, that will appeal to a diverse community of readers. There's something for young readers, something for more mature fans, something for classic horror aficianados, something for comedy lovers, something for mainstream superhero readers, and something for those who appreciate the truly offbeat. Specifically, on this episode Paul and Derek discuss: Halloween Tales, Vol. 1, by Olivier Boiscommun (Humanoids Kids) Adventure Time Spooktacular 2017, by Pendleton Ward and others (KaBoom!) Sherlock Frankenstein and the Legion of Evil, by Jeff Lemire and David Rubín (Dark Horse Comics) Mr. Higgins Comes Home, by Mike Mignola and Warwick Johnson-Cadwell (Dark Horse Books) Jughead: The Hunger, by Frank Tieri and Pat & Tim Kennedy (Archie Comics) Archie Halloween Spectacular, Various creators (Archie Comics) DC House of Horror, by various creators (DC Comics) Spooky and the Strange Tales: Monster Inn, by Élian Black'Mor and Carine-M (IDW Publishing) Behind You: One-Shot Horror Stories, by Brian Coldrick (IDW Publishing) High Moon: Bullet Holes and Bite Marks, by David Gallaher, Steve Ellis (Super Genius)   Wed, 25 Oct 2017 12:14:29 -0000 Halloween Comics 2017 full 254 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Behind You! Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:05 - Setup of this year's Halloween episode 00:10:40 - Halloween Tales, Vol. 1 00:25:49 - Adventure Time Spoooktacular 2017 00:35:12 - Sherlock Frankenstein and the Legion of Evil & Mr. Higgins Comes Home 00:45:26 - Jughead: The Hunger & Archie Halloween Spectacular 01:02:47 - DC House of Horror 01:13:52 - Spooky and the Strange Tales: Monster Inn & Behind You: One-Shot Horror Stories 01:29:47 - High Moon: Bullet Holes and Bite Marks 01:36:57 - Wrap up 01:38:57 - Contact us Once again, it's that creepy time of the year: the Wednesday before Halloween. And as the Two Guys have done for the past several years, they're using this occasion to highlight a variety of Halloween-specific and recent horror titles. This time around, Paul joins Derek in discussing a variety of comics, ten in all, that will appeal to a diverse community of readers. There's something for young readers, something for more mature fans, something for classic horror aficianados, something for comedy lovers, something for mainstream superhero readers, and something for those who appreciate the truly offbeat. Specifically, on this episode Paul and Derek discuss: Halloween Tales, Vol. 1, by Olivier Boiscommun (Humanoids Kids) Adventure Time Spooktacular 2017, by Pendleton Ward and others (KaBoom!) Sherlock Frankenstein and the Legion of Evil, by Jeff Lemire and David Rubín (Dark Horse Comics) Mr. Higgins Comes Home, by Mike Mignola and Warwick Johnson-Cadwell (Dark Horse Books) Jughead: The Hunger, by Frank Tieri and Pat & Tim Kennedy (Archie Comics) Archie Halloween Spectacular, Various creators (Archie Comics) DC House of Horror, by various creators (DC Comics) Spooky and the Strange Tales: Monster Inn, by Élian Black'Mor and Carine-M (IDW Publishing) Behind You: One-Shot Horror Stories, by Brian Coldrick (IDW Publishing) High Moon: Bullet Holes and Bite Marks, by David Gallaher, Steve Ellis (Super Genius)   Time Codes:

Once again, it's that creepy time of the year: the Wednesday before Halloween. And as the Two Guys have done for the past several years, they're using this occasion to highlight a variety of Halloween-specific and recent horror titles. This time around, Paul joins Derek in discussing a variety of comics, ten in all, that will appeal to a diverse community of readers. There's something for young readers, something for more mature fans, something for classic horror aficianados, something for comedy lovers, something for mainstream superhero readers, and something for those who appreciate the truly offbeat. Specifically, on this episode Paul and Derek discuss:

 

]]> 6149 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Roz Chast http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-roz-chast Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:40 - Interview with Roz Chast 01:12:04 - Wrap up 01:13:54 - Contact us Paul and Derek are pleased to have on The Comics Alternative the great cartoonist, Roz Chast. Her new book, Going into Town: A Love Letter to New York, was recently released by Bloomsbury Publishing. The Two Guys have been longtime fans of Chast's offbeat and hilarious New Yorker strips for years, and they spend a good bit of time talking with their guest about how she has translated that sense of humor into a long-form narrative. They also talk with Chast about her previous book, Can't We Please Talk about Something More Pleasant?, her memoir on living with aging parents, and how her mother and father find prominent places in the latest work. Along the way, Chast discusses her process of writing -- she indiscriminately explores narrative paths to see what does and doesn't work -- her unique non-comic-book community of cartoonist colleagues, and her experiences editing last year's Best American Comics volume. And of course, she spends a lot of time talking about her experiences and love of Manhattan, complete with its mind-blowing variety of restaurants, its subway system, its out-of-the-way specialty shops, its giant waterbugs, and the annoyance of rat afterbirth. Yes, rat afterbirth. Mon, 23 Oct 2017 01:44:49 -0000 An Interview with Roz Chast full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Rat Afterbirth Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:40 - Interview with Roz Chast 01:12:04 - Wrap up 01:13:54 - Contact us Paul and Derek are pleased to have on The Comics Alternative the great cartoonist, Roz Chast. Her new book, Going into Town: A Love Letter to New York, was recently released by Bloomsbury Publishing. The Two Guys have been longtime fans of Chast's offbeat and hilarious New Yorker strips for years, and they spend a good bit of time talking with their guest about how she has translated that sense of humor into a long-form narrative. They also talk with Chast about her previous book, Can't We Please Talk about Something More Pleasant?, her memoir on living with aging parents, and how her mother and father find prominent places in the latest work. Along the way, Chast discusses her process of writing -- she indiscriminately explores narrative paths to see what does and doesn't work -- her unique non-comic-book community of cartoonist colleagues, and her experiences editing last year's Best American Comics volume. And of course, she spends a lot of time talking about her experiences and love of Manhattan, complete with its mind-blowing variety of restaurants, its subway system, its out-of-the-way specialty shops, its giant waterbugs, and the annoyance of rat afterbirth. Yes, rat afterbirth. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:38 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:40 - Interview with Roz Chast
  • 01:12:04 - Wrap up
  • 01:13:54 - Contact us

Paul and Derek are pleased to have on The Comics Alternative the great cartoonist, Roz Chast. Her new book, Going into Town: A Love Letter to New York, was recently released by Bloomsbury Publishing. The Two Guys have been longtime fans of Chast's offbeat and hilarious New Yorker strips for years, and they spend a good bit of time talking with their guest about how she has translated that sense of humor into a long-form narrative. They also talk with Chast about her previous book, Can't We Please Talk about Something More Pleasant?, her memoir on living with aging parents, and how her mother and father find prominent places in the latest work. Along the way, Chast discusses her process of writing -- she indiscriminately explores narrative paths to see what does and doesn't work -- her unique non-comic-book community of cartoonist colleagues, and her experiences editing last year's Best American Comics volume. And of course, she spends a lot of time talking about her experiences and love of Manhattan, complete with its mind-blowing variety of restaurants, its subway system, its out-of-the-way specialty shops, its giant waterbugs, and the annoyance of rat afterbirth. Yes, rat afterbirth.

]]> 4628 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: More with Rich Tommaso http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-more-with-rich-tommaso Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Setup of interview 00:04:43 - Interview with Rich Tommaso 01:01:40 - Wrap up 01:03:42 - Contact us Derek is pleased to have Rich Tommaso back on The Comics Alternative. He appeared on the show last year to discuss his new series at the time, She Wolf, but this time he talks about Spy Seal, his intriguing new anthropomorphic espionage series from Image Comics. They begin by chronicling the genesis of the story, a comic that Rich began as a thirteen-year-old, and then discuss the development of the premise and the various choices Rich made in situating his narrative. One way that Rich describes his new series is by paying homage to Hergé's Tintin, the globetrotting young investigator who always found himself immersed in adventure and intrigue. He also discloses many of the lessons he learned with his previous Image series, both She Wolf and Dark Corridors, his love of genre, and his need to move on -- at least momentarily -- from psychological horror and crime stories. Derek also asks Rich about his plans for future Spy Seal narrative arcs, the temporal settings of these plots, and the ways in which the uncertainty of creator-0wned series impacts a writer's storytelling choices.   Fri, 20 Oct 2017 11:03:53 -0000 An Interview with Rich Tommaso full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Anthropomorphic Espionage Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Setup of interview 00:04:43 - Interview with Rich Tommaso 01:01:40 - Wrap up 01:03:42 - Contact us Derek is pleased to have Rich Tommaso back on The Comics Alternative. He appeared on the show last year to discuss his new series at the time, She Wolf, but this time he talks about Spy Seal, his intriguing new anthropomorphic espionage series from Image Comics. They begin by chronicling the genesis of the story, a comic that Rich began as a thirteen-year-old, and then discuss the development of the premise and the various choices Rich made in situating his narrative. One way that Rich describes his new series is by paying homage to Hergé's Tintin, the globetrotting young investigator who always found himself immersed in adventure and intrigue. He also discloses many of the lessons he learned with his previous Image series, both She Wolf and Dark Corridors, his love of genre, and his need to move on -- at least momentarily -- from psychological horror and crime stories. Derek also asks Rich about his plans for future Spy Seal narrative arcs, the temporal settings of these plots, and the ways in which the uncertainty of creator-0wned series impacts a writer's storytelling choices.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:03:07 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:43 - Interview with Rich Tommaso
  • 01:01:40 - Wrap up
  • 01:03:42 - Contact us

Derek is pleased to have Rich Tommaso back on The Comics Alternative. He appeared on the show last year to discuss his new series at the time, She Wolf, but this time he talks about Spy Seal, his intriguing new anthropomorphic espionage series from Image Comics. They begin by chronicling the genesis of the story, a comic that Rich began as a thirteen-year-old, and then discuss the development of the premise and the various choices Rich made in situating his narrative. One way that Rich describes his new series is by paying homage to Hergé's Tintin, the globetrotting young investigator who always found himself immersed in adventure and intrigue. He also discloses many of the lessons he learned with his previous Image series, both She Wolf and Dark Corridors, his love of genre, and his need to move on -- at least momentarily -- from psychological horror and crime stories. Derek also asks Rich about his plans for future Spy Seal narrative arcs, the temporal settings of these plots, and the ways in which the uncertainty of creator-0wned series impacts a writer's storytelling choices.

 

]]> 4017 no Episode 253: Reviews of Lighter Than My Shadow, Now #1, and The Family Trade #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-253-reviews-of-lighter-than-my-shadow-now-1-and-the-family-trade-1 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:12 - The tragedy of the California wildfires 00:05:58 - Lighter Than My Shadow 00:48:27 - Now #1 01:14:03 - The Family Trade #1 01:31:28 - Wrap up 01:32:31 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek take on three exciting new titles. They begin with a moving memoir from UK creator Katie Green, Lighter Than My Shadow (Roar-Lion Forge). In this work, Green reveals the eating disorders she struggled with as a young girl and into adulthood. Growing up obsessive-compulsive, Green chronicles how this condition contributed to her anorexic behavior, later evolving into problems with binging. Green also narrates her many attempts to address these problems with various doctors and therapists, the most notorious of whom ends up sexually abusing her...providing even more obstacles to her recovery. The guys are impressed by Green's honesty and storytelling abilities -- particularly taken by her art and the visual metaphors she employs throughout -- although toward the end of their conversation about this title, they wonder if perhaps the memoir could have been streamlined just a little. This is a 500+ page text, after all. Next, the Two Guys look at a brand new anthology from Fantagraphics, Now #1. Edited by Eric Reynolds, this collection of diverse and experimental comic art brings to mind Fantagraphics previous anthology, Mome (which both Derek and Paul dearly miss). In fact, the guys begin their discussion of Now by referencing the earlier anthology, with Paul feeling that the latest efforts are more experimental than Mome, while Derek see it as more similar to the previous series. The only difference is number of new and/or unfamiliar creators in Now (and, Derek argues, such was also the case several years ago with Mome). Some of the standouts in this first issue of Now are Dash Shaw's "Scorpio," Gabrielle Bell's "Dear Naked Guy...," Sammy Harkham's "I, Marlon," Malachi Ward and Matt Sheean's "Widening Horizon," and especially Noah Van Sciver's "Wall of Shame" (for Derek, the best of the collection). But the guys are also impressed, and at times curiously confused, by the contributions from creators that are new to them, such as Sara Corbett, J.C. Menu, Antoine Cossé, and Kaela Graham. But as Paul and Derek argue, the entire issue of Now is compelling and works successfully as an anthology. They can't wait until the second issue, due for release in January. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a discussion of Justin Jordan, Nikki Ryan, and Morgan Beem's The Family Trade #1 (Image Comics). This is another example of the kind of world-building often found at Image, and it's the story of a neutral territory in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Float, ruled by the descendants of the ship captains that originally founded the realm -- called the Clans -- and the Family, descendants of the hands who had worked for the captains. This first issue opens with the protagonist, Jessa Wynn, attempting to assassinate Stagger Berghardt, a Trump-like charismatic demagogue who appeals to the base instincts of the citizens of the Float. She bungles the assassination, but her efforts put into motion a series of encounters that will propel the narrative into the next issues. Both Derek and Paul are impressed by this first issue, especially Beem's art, and both plan on remaining on board for the rest of the series. Wed, 18 Oct 2017 11:56:56 -0000 Reviews of Lighter Than My Shadow, Now #1, and The Family Trade #1 full 253 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hungry for Art Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:12 - The tragedy of the California wildfires 00:05:58 - Lighter Than My Shadow 00:48:27 - Now #1 01:14:03 - The Family Trade #1 01:31:28 - Wrap up 01:32:31 - Contact us This week Paul and Derek take on three exciting new titles. They begin with a moving memoir from UK creator Katie Green, Lighter Than My Shadow (Roar-Lion Forge). In this work, Green reveals the eating disorders she struggled with as a young girl and into adulthood. Growing up obsessive-compulsive, Green chronicles how this condition contributed to her anorexic behavior, later evolving into problems with binging. Green also narrates her many attempts to address these problems with various doctors and therapists, the most notorious of whom ends up sexually abusing her...providing even more obstacles to her recovery. The guys are impressed by Green's honesty and storytelling abilities -- particularly taken by her art and the visual metaphors she employs throughout -- although toward the end of their conversation about this title, they wonder if perhaps the memoir could have been streamlined just a little. This is a 500+ page text, after all. Next, the Two Guys look at a brand new anthology from Fantagraphics, Now #1. Edited by Eric Reynolds, this collection of diverse and experimental comic art brings to mind Fantagraphics previous anthology, Mome (which both Derek and Paul dearly miss). In fact, the guys begin their discussion of Now by referencing the earlier anthology, with Paul feeling that the latest efforts are more experimental than Mome, while Derek see it as more similar to the previous series. The only difference is number of new and/or unfamiliar creators in Now (and, Derek argues, such was also the case several years ago with Mome). Some of the standouts in this first issue of Now are Dash Shaw's "Scorpio," Gabrielle Bell's "Dear Naked Guy...," Sammy Harkham's "I, Marlon," Malachi Ward and Matt Sheean's "Widening Horizon," and especially Noah Van Sciver's "Wall of Shame" (for Derek, the best of the collection). But the guys are also impressed, and at times curiously confused, by the contributions from creators that are new to them, such as Sara Corbett, J.C. Menu, Antoine Cossé, and Kaela Graham. But as Paul and Derek argue, the entire issue of Now is compelling and works successfully as an anthology. They can't wait until the second issue, due for release in January. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a discussion of Justin Jordan, Nikki Ryan, and Morgan Beem's The Family Trade #1 (Image Comics). This is another example of the kind of world-building often found at Image, and it's the story of a neutral territory in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Float, ruled by the descendants of the ship captains that originally founded the realm -- called the Clans -- and the Family, descendants of the hands who had worked for the captains. This first issue opens with the protagonist, Jessa Wynn, attempting to assassinate Stagger Berghardt, a Trump-like charismatic demagogue who appeals to the base instincts of the citizens of the Float. She bungles the assassination, but her efforts put into motion a series of encounters that will propel the narrative into the next issues. Both Derek and Paul are impressed by this first issue, especially Beem's art, and both plan on remaining on board for the rest of the series. Time Codes:

This week Paul and Derek take on three exciting new titles. They begin with a moving memoir from UK creator Katie Green, Lighter Than My Shadow (Roar-Lion Forge). In this work, Green reveals the eating disorders she struggled with as a young girl and into adulthood. Growing up obsessive-compulsive, Green chronicles how this condition contributed to her anorexic behavior, later evolving into problems with binging. Green also narrates her many attempts to address these problems with various doctors and therapists, the most notorious of whom ends up sexually abusing her...providing even more obstacles to her recovery. The guys are impressed by Green's honesty and storytelling abilities -- particularly taken by her art and the visual metaphors she employs throughout -- although toward the end of their conversation about this title, they wonder if perhaps the memoir could have been streamlined just a little. This is a 500+ page text, after all.

Next, the Two Guys look at a brand new anthology from Fantagraphics, Now #1. Edited by Eric Reynolds, this collection of diverse and experimental comic art brings to mind Fantagraphics previous anthology, Mome (which both Derek and Paul dearly miss). In fact, the guys begin their discussion of Now by referencing the earlier anthology, with Paul feeling that the latest efforts are more experimental than Mome, while Derek see it as more similar to the previous series. The only difference is number of new and/or unfamiliar creators in Now (and, Derek argues, such was also the case several years ago with Mome). Some of the standouts in this first issue of Now are Dash Shaw's "Scorpio," Gabrielle Bell's "Dear Naked Guy...," Sammy Harkham's "I, Marlon," Malachi Ward and Matt Sheean's "Widening Horizon," and especially Noah Van Sciver's "Wall of Shame" (for Derek, the best of the collection). But the guys are also impressed, and at times curiously confused, by the contributions from creators that are new to them, such as Sara Corbett, J.C. Menu, Antoine Cossé, and Kaela Graham. But as Paul and Derek argue, the entire issue of Now is compelling and works successfully as an anthology. They can't wait until the second issue, due for release in January.

Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a discussion of Justin Jordan, Nikki Ryan, and Morgan Beem's The Family Trade #1 (Image Comics). This is another example of the kind of world-building often found at Image, and it's the story of a neutral territory in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Float, ruled by the descendants of the ship captains that originally founded the realm -- called the Clans -- and the Family, descendants of the hands who had worked for the captains. This first issue opens with the protagonist, Jessa Wynn, attempting to assassinate Stagger Berghardt, a Trump-like charismatic demagogue who appeals to the base instincts of the citizens of the Float. She bungles the assassination, but her efforts put into motion a series of encounters that will propel the narrative into the next issues. Both Derek and Paul are impressed by this first issue, especially Beem's art, and both plan on remaining on board for the rest of the series.

]]> 5761 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Sophie Goldstein http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-sophie-goldstein Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Setup of interview 00:04:28 - Interview with Sophie Goldstein 01:16:41 - Wrap up 01:18:21 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Paul and Derek are pleased to talk with Sophie Goldstein. Her new book, House of Women, was recently published by Fantagraphics, and she talks with the Two Guys about her four-year process of creating her narrative. As Sophie describes it, this is a psycho-sexual sci-fi drama about a group of female missionaries who travel to a distant planet to help educate -- and colonize -- the local population. Complications ensue when an earlier missionary, Jael Dean, goes native and becomes the focus of rival affections. During their insightful conversation, Goldstein discusses the genesis of the project, how it springs from her love of the film Black Narcissus and how it began as a thesis while she was at the Center for Cartoon Studies. She also reveals her strategies for composing her protagonists, the evolution of the storyline, and the history of originally self-publishing her work in three parts. Be sure to check out Sophie Goldstein's Patreon page, as well as her previous times on the podcast: The 2015 interview At the 2015 HeroesCon At the 2015 Small Press Expo At the 2016 Small Press Expo At the 2017 Sumter Comic Arts Symposium   Tue, 17 Oct 2017 11:06:06 -0000 Another Interview with Sophie Goldstein full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sci-Fi and the Art of Psycho-Sexual Drama Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Setup of interview 00:04:28 - Interview with Sophie Goldstein 01:16:41 - Wrap up 01:18:21 - Contact us On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Paul and Derek are pleased to talk with Sophie Goldstein. Her new book, House of Women, was recently published by Fantagraphics, and she talks with the Two Guys about her four-year process of creating her narrative. As Sophie describes it, this is a psycho-sexual sci-fi drama about a group of female missionaries who travel to a distant planet to help educate -- and colonize -- the local population. Complications ensue when an earlier missionary, Jael Dean, goes native and becomes the focus of rival affections. During their insightful conversation, Goldstein discusses the genesis of the project, how it springs from her love of the film Black Narcissus and how it began as a thesis while she was at the Center for Cartoon Studies. She also reveals her strategies for composing her protagonists, the evolution of the storyline, and the history of originally self-publishing her work in three parts. Be sure to check out Sophie Goldstein's Patreon page, as well as her previous times on the podcast: The 2015 interview At the 2015 HeroesCon At the 2015 Small Press Expo At the 2016 Small Press Expo At the 2017 Sumter Comic Arts Symposium   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:39 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:28 - Interview with Sophie Goldstein
  • 01:16:41 - Wrap up
  • 01:18:21 - Contact us

On this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Paul and Derek are pleased to talk with Sophie Goldstein. Her new book, House of Women, was recently published by Fantagraphics, and she talks with the Two Guys about her four-year process of creating her narrative. As Sophie describes it, this is a psycho-sexual sci-fi drama about a group of female missionaries who travel to a distant planet to help educate -- and colonize -- the local population. Complications ensue when an earlier missionary, Jael Dean, goes native and becomes the focus of rival affections. During their insightful conversation, Goldstein discusses the genesis of the project, how it springs from her love of the film Black Narcissus and how it began as a thesis while she was at the Center for Cartoon Studies. She also reveals her strategies for composing her protagonists, the evolution of the storyline, and the history of originally self-publishing her work in three parts.

Be sure to check out Sophie Goldstein's Patreon page, as well as her previous times on the podcast:

 

]]> 4870 no Manga: Reviews of Uncomfortably Happily and Appleseed Alpha http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-uncomfortably-happily-and-appleseed-alpha Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Getting back in the manga saddle 00:05:37 - Uncomfortably Happily 00:44:42 - Appleseed Alpha 01:22:55 - Wrap up 01:24:37 - Contact us The monthly manga series is back, and on this episode -- the first of two manga shows in October -- Shea and Derek discuss a couple of very different works. They begin with Yeon-Sik Hong's Uncomfortably Happily (Drawn and Quarterly). This is the story of Hong and his wife becoming frustrated with living in crowded and polluted Seoul, ultimately deciding to move to a house in a remote mountain community. As the guys reveal, the majority of the narrative is devoted to the everyday challenges the couple undergo, the quotidian tasks involved in living in such a raw, isolated area. Over the course of their conversation Derek and Shea address the question of autobiography: Is this indeed a memoir of what Hong and his wife actually underwent? Neither of the guys doubts that the story is anchored in Hong's real-life experiences, although Derek makes the argument that the construction of the narrative bears more of a fictional stamp than one of life writing. Next the guys turn to a very different kind of manga. Iou Kuroda's Appleseed Alpha (Kodansha Comics) is a manga based on Shirow Masamune's original Appleseed, as well as an adaptation of Shinji Aramaki's anime feature. Both Shea and Derek are impressed with Kuroda's art, dynamic and drenched in heavy inks, but they're not as excited about the coherency of the story. There are gaps in the narrative, the various events aren't necessarily linked cohesively, and the overall story can be a bit confusing at times. Nonetheless, the guys, especially Shea, are taken by Kuroda's efforts. Shea appreciates this follow-up to the Shirow's Appleseed, which he has read, and Derek feels impelled now to seek out the original manga series. At the end of month, Shea and Derek will be back with their second October manga show, a special Halloween show devoted to horror manga. Keep your ears open! Mon, 16 Oct 2017 10:28:15 -0000 Manga: Reviews of Uncomfortably Happily and Appleseed Alpha full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Questions of Memoir and Representation Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Getting back in the manga saddle 00:05:37 - Uncomfortably Happily 00:44:42 - Appleseed Alpha 01:22:55 - Wrap up 01:24:37 - Contact us The monthly manga series is back, and on this episode -- the first of two manga shows in October -- Shea and Derek discuss a couple of very different works. They begin with Yeon-Sik Hong's Uncomfortably Happily (Drawn and Quarterly). This is the story of Hong and his wife becoming frustrated with living in crowded and polluted Seoul, ultimately deciding to move to a house in a remote mountain community. As the guys reveal, the majority of the narrative is devoted to the everyday challenges the couple undergo, the quotidian tasks involved in living in such a raw, isolated area. Over the course of their conversation Derek and Shea address the question of autobiography: Is this indeed a memoir of what Hong and his wife actually underwent? Neither of the guys doubts that the story is anchored in Hong's real-life experiences, although Derek makes the argument that the construction of the narrative bears more of a fictional stamp than one of life writing. Next the guys turn to a very different kind of manga. Iou Kuroda's Appleseed Alpha (Kodansha Comics) is a manga based on Shirow Masamune's original Appleseed, as well as an adaptation of Shinji Aramaki's anime feature. Both Shea and Derek are impressed with Kuroda's art, dynamic and drenched in heavy inks, but they're not as excited about the coherency of the story. There are gaps in the narrative, the various events aren't necessarily linked cohesively, and the overall story can be a bit confusing at times. Nonetheless, the guys, especially Shea, are taken by Kuroda's efforts. Shea appreciates this follow-up to the Shirow's Appleseed, which he has read, and Derek feels impelled now to seek out the original manga series. At the end of month, Shea and Derek will be back with their second October manga show, a special Halloween show devoted to horror manga. Keep your ears open! Time Codes:

The monthly manga series is back, and on this episode -- the first of two manga shows in October -- Shea and Derek discuss a couple of very different works. They begin with Yeon-Sik Hong's Uncomfortably Happily (Drawn and Quarterly). This is the story of Hong and his wife becoming frustrated with living in crowded and polluted Seoul, ultimately deciding to move to a house in a remote mountain community. As the guys reveal, the majority of the narrative is devoted to the everyday challenges the couple undergo, the quotidian tasks involved in living in such a raw, isolated area. Over the course of their conversation Derek and Shea address the question of autobiography: Is this indeed a memoir of what Hong and his wife actually underwent? Neither of the guys doubts that the story is anchored in Hong's real-life experiences, although Derek makes the argument that the construction of the narrative bears more of a fictional stamp than one of life writing.

Next the guys turn to a very different kind of manga. Iou Kuroda's Appleseed Alpha (Kodansha Comics) is a manga based on Shirow Masamune's original Appleseed, as well as an adaptation of Shinji Aramaki's anime feature. Both Shea and Derek are impressed with Kuroda's art, dynamic and drenched in heavy inks, but they're not as excited about the coherency of the story. There are gaps in the narrative, the various events aren't necessarily linked cohesively, and the overall story can be a bit confusing at times. Nonetheless, the guys, especially Shea, are taken by Kuroda's efforts. Shea appreciates this follow-up to the Shirow's Appleseed, which he has read, and Derek feels impelled now to seek out the original manga series.

At the end of month, Shea and Derek will be back with their second October manga show, a special Halloween show devoted to horror manga. Keep your ears open!

]]> 5290 no Episode 252: Reviews of Spinning, Love and Rockets, Vol. 4 #3, and Slots #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-252-reviews-of-spinning-love-and-rockets-vol-4-3-and-slots-1 Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:03:14 - Hello to Paul! 00:04:44 - Spinning 00:33:30 - Love and Rockets, Vol. 4 #3 01:07:11 - Slots #1 01:25:49 - Wrap up 01:27:12 - Contact us On this week's episode of The Comics Alternative, Paul joins Derek in discussing three exciting new titles. They begin with Spinning, Tillie Walden's new book and her initial release for First Second. What makes this work stand out from her previous comics, such as The End of Summer and I Love This Part, is that it is an outright memoir. This is a coming-of-age narrative, and Walden uses her history of competitive ice skating as a scaffolding for her life story. There's a lot in this memoir about her chosen sport, but Spinning is much more than a book about skating. In it, we see Walden's key relationships, her search for a mother figure, and her coming out to family and friends. Next, the guys check out the latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics). In this issue, the third in the magazine-sized fourth volume, both Jaime and Gilbert continue the storylines they had begun in the earlier New Stories annuals. Gilbert gives us the further adventures of Fritz, her daughters, and the Fritz wannabes, while Jaime returns to his Princess Anima story and the Hoppers punk reunion. What most strikes both Derek and Paul, however, are the two short pieces early in the issue where Jaime visits the young Maggie and Hopey in 1979. The guys hope there is more on the teenage locas in future issues. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up by discussing the first issue of a new series from Image Comics, Dan Panosian's Slots. This is the story of Stanley Dance, a former boxer and antihero who does what he can to get by. It takes place in Las Vegas, and both Paul and Derek are struck by how Panosian's art, as well as his storytelling style, captures the loose and freewheeling feel of the gambling capital. They're impressed by this first issue and plan to continue with this series. Wed, 11 Oct 2017 11:27:58 -0000 Reviews of Spinning, Love and Rockets, Vol. 4 #3, and Slots #1 full 252 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal On the Ice, in the Casino Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:03:14 - Hello to Paul! 00:04:44 - Spinning 00:33:30 - Love and Rockets, Vol. 4 #3 01:07:11 - Slots #1 01:25:49 - Wrap up 01:27:12 - Contact us On this week's episode of The Comics Alternative, Paul joins Derek in discussing three exciting new titles. They begin with Spinning, Tillie Walden's new book and her initial release for First Second. What makes this work stand out from her previous comics, such as The End of Summer and I Love This Part, is that it is an outright memoir. This is a coming-of-age narrative, and Walden uses her history of competitive ice skating as a scaffolding for her life story. There's a lot in this memoir about her chosen sport, but Spinning is much more than a book about skating. In it, we see Walden's key relationships, her search for a mother figure, and her coming out to family and friends. Next, the guys check out the latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics). In this issue, the third in the magazine-sized fourth volume, both Jaime and Gilbert continue the storylines they had begun in the earlier New Stories annuals. Gilbert gives us the further adventures of Fritz, her daughters, and the Fritz wannabes, while Jaime returns to his Princess Anima story and the Hoppers punk reunion. What most strikes both Derek and Paul, however, are the two short pieces early in the issue where Jaime visits the young Maggie and Hopey in 1979. The guys hope there is more on the teenage locas in future issues. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up by discussing the first issue of a new series from Image Comics, Dan Panosian's Slots. This is the story of Stanley Dance, a former boxer and antihero who does what he can to get by. It takes place in Las Vegas, and both Paul and Derek are struck by how Panosian's art, as well as his storytelling style, captures the loose and freewheeling feel of the gambling capital. They're impressed by this first issue and plan to continue with this series. Time Codes:

On this week's episode of The Comics Alternative, Paul joins Derek in discussing three exciting new titles. They begin with Spinning, Tillie Walden's new book and her initial release for First Second. What makes this work stand out from her previous comics, such as The End of Summer and I Love This Part, is that it is an outright memoir. This is a coming-of-age narrative, and Walden uses her history of competitive ice skating as a scaffolding for her life story. There's a lot in this memoir about her chosen sport, but Spinning is much more than a book about skating. In it, we see Walden's key relationships, her search for a mother figure, and her coming out to family and friends.

Next, the guys check out the latest issue of Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics). In this issue, the third in the magazine-sized fourth volume, both Jaime and Gilbert continue the storylines they had begun in the earlier New Stories annuals. Gilbert gives us the further adventures of Fritz, her daughters, and the Fritz wannabes, while Jaime returns to his Princess Anima story and the Hoppers punk reunion. What most strikes both Derek and Paul, however, are the two short pieces early in the issue where Jaime visits the young Maggie and Hopey in 1979. The guys hope there is more on the teenage locas in future issues.

Finally, the Two Guys wrap up by discussing the first issue of a new series from Image Comics, Dan Panosian's Slots. This is the story of Stanley Dance, a former boxer and antihero who does what he can to get by. It takes place in Las Vegas, and both Paul and Derek are struck by how Panosian's art, as well as his storytelling style, captures the loose and freewheeling feel of the gambling capital. They're impressed by this first issue and plan to continue with this series.

]]> 5438 no Webcomics: Reviews of Righteous, Zen and the Ephemeral, and American Barbarian http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-righteous-zen-and-the-ephemeral-and-american-barbarian Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:16 - Comments on hiatus 00:05:33 - Righteous 00:28:44 - Zen and the Ephemeral 00:48:36 - American Barbarian 01:15:35 - Wrap up 01:16:43 - Contact us The Comics Alternative's monthly webcomics series is back, and for October Sean and Derek discuss three intriguing titles. They begin with Righteous, written by Kevin Sheller and with art by Joseba Morales and colors by Gab Contreras. This is a narrative with a curious premise: What would happen if suddenly, everyone decided to do the right thing? The story focuses on Daniel, a risk analyst who is "touched" by a mysterious entity and then realizes that his work demeans human life and decides to commit himself to helping others. And his attitude becomes infectious. Next, the Two Guys discuss a very recent webcomic (beginning in May), Laurence Dea Dionne's Zen and the Ephemeral. It's the story of Moé, a young woman suffering from depression who decides to spend ten days at a meditation retreat. The narrative is in its early stages -- as of this recording, we're still in the first chapter -- but it reveals the various experiences and feelings that Moé goes through as she becomes acclimated to the retreat and its other participants. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Tom Scioli's American Barbarian. One of the first things that grabs the guys' attention is the heavy influence of Jack Kirby on Scioli's art. Both the character illustration and the kinetic action in the comic bear the stamp of the legend, and not in a derivative way. Scioli utilizes this influence in a way that propels the action forward, providing a story that is reminiscent of Kamandi and Conan the Barbarian. The guys spend a lot of time discussing Scioli's art, but they also mention other webcomics on his website, such Princess, Final Frontier, and his brand new biography of Jack Kirby. Mon, 09 Oct 2017 11:54:00 -0000 Webcomics: Reviews of Righteous, Zen and the Ephemeral, and American Barbarian full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Kirby Lives! Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:16 - Comments on hiatus 00:05:33 - Righteous 00:28:44 - Zen and the Ephemeral 00:48:36 - American Barbarian 01:15:35 - Wrap up 01:16:43 - Contact us The Comics Alternative's monthly webcomics series is back, and for October Sean and Derek discuss three intriguing titles. They begin with Righteous, written by Kevin Sheller and with art by Joseba Morales and colors by Gab Contreras. This is a narrative with a curious premise: What would happen if suddenly, everyone decided to do the right thing? The story focuses on Daniel, a risk analyst who is "touched" by a mysterious entity and then realizes that his work demeans human life and decides to commit himself to helping others. And his attitude becomes infectious. Next, the Two Guys discuss a very recent webcomic (beginning in May), Laurence Dea Dionne's Zen and the Ephemeral. It's the story of Moé, a young woman suffering from depression who decides to spend ten days at a meditation retreat. The narrative is in its early stages -- as of this recording, we're still in the first chapter -- but it reveals the various experiences and feelings that Moé goes through as she becomes acclimated to the retreat and its other participants. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Tom Scioli's American Barbarian. One of the first things that grabs the guys' attention is the heavy influence of Jack Kirby on Scioli's art. Both the character illustration and the kinetic action in the comic bear the stamp of the legend, and not in a derivative way. Scioli utilizes this influence in a way that propels the action forward, providing a story that is reminiscent of Kamandi and Conan the Barbarian. The guys spend a lot of time discussing Scioli's art, but they also mention other webcomics on his website, such Princess, Final Frontier, and his brand new biography of Jack Kirby. Time Codes:

The Comics Alternative's monthly webcomics series is back, and for October Sean and Derek discuss three intriguing titles. They begin with Righteous, written by Kevin Sheller and with art by Joseba Morales and colors by Gab Contreras. This is a narrative with a curious premise: What would happen if suddenly, everyone decided to do the right thing? The story focuses on Daniel, a risk analyst who is "touched" by a mysterious entity and then realizes that his work demeans human life and decides to commit himself to helping others. And his attitude becomes infectious.

Next, the Two Guys discuss a very recent webcomic (beginning in May), Laurence Dea Dionne's Zen and the Ephemeral. It's the story of Moé, a young woman suffering from depression who decides to spend ten days at a meditation retreat. The narrative is in its early stages -- as of this recording, we're still in the first chapter -- but it reveals the various experiences and feelings that Moé goes through as she becomes acclimated to the retreat and its other participants.

Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Tom Scioli's American Barbarian. One of the first things that grabs the guys' attention is the heavy influence of Jack Kirby on Scioli's art. Both the character illustration and the kinetic action in the comic bear the stamp of the legend, and not in a derivative way. Scioli utilizes this influence in a way that propels the action forward, providing a story that is reminiscent of Kamandi and Conan the Barbarian. The guys spend a lot of time discussing Scioli's art, but they also mention other webcomics on his website, such Princess, Final Frontier, and his brand new biography of Jack Kirby.

]]> 4830 no Episode 251: The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-251-the-october-previews-catalog The Two Guys with PhDs have been on hiatus for a couple of months -- as they explain in this episode, life matters prevented new episodes -- but now the weekly review show is back...and with a vengeance. On this episode, Gene and Derek look through the October Previews catalog. There's a lot packed into this month's solicits, and the guys have their hands full. But Gene and Derek rise to the occasion and highlight a variety of upcoming titles from publishers such as: Dark Horse Comics - Incognegro, Joe Golem: Occult Detective: Flesh and Blood #1, Inside Moebius, and The Secret Loves of Geeks DC/Vertigo - DC Universe Holiday Special 2017, Imaginary Fiends #2, and Savage Things IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Assassinistas #1, We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Screwball: The Cartoonists Who Made the Funnies Funny, Four Women, and Comic Book History of Comics: Comics for All #1 Image Comics - Curse Words Holiday Special, Paradiso #1, Sleepless #1, and The Divided States of Hysteria Aardvark-Vanaheim - The Vark Knight Returns #1 Abstract Studios - Terry Moore 25th Anniversary Sketchbook: 8,800 Days of Blondes, Brunettes, and Bozos Aftershock Comics - Monstro Mechanica #1 and Backways #1 Alternative Comics - Nurse Nurse Archie Comics - The Mighty Crusaders #1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - How to Be Alive BOOM! Studios - Judas #1, Klaus and the Crisis in Xmasville #1, Pizzeria Kamikaze, Grass Kings Vol. 1, and Rust Vol. 4 Conundrum Press - Getting Out of Hope, Mister Morgen, and The Collected Neil the Horse Dynamite Entertainment - Barbarella #1 Drawn and Quarterly - It Don't Come Easy Fantagraphics Books - Love and Rockets #4, Blubber #5, Angels and Magpies: The Love and Rockets Library Vol. 13, Drew Friedman's Chosen People, The Lie and How We Told It, Night Business, and Sparring with Gil Kane: Debating the History and Aesthetics of Comics Humanoids - The Magical Twins Kodansha Comics - Inuyashiki Vols. 9 & 10 and Happiness Vol. 6 NBM - Portugal One Peace Books - Dostoyevsky: The Life and Work Oni Press - You Have Killed Me Sunday Press Books - Crazy Quilt: Scraps and Panels on the Way to Gasoline Alley Titan Comics - The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest: Millennium #1, The Girl Who Handcuffed Houdini #2, and Quarry's War #2 Vertical Comics - Blame! Vol. 6 VIZ Media - Shiver, Platinum End Vol. 4, Assassination Classroom Vol. 19, and Golden Kamuy Vol. 3 Hermes Press - Joe Sinnott: Embellishing Life Wed, 04 Oct 2017 11:22:12 -0000 The October Previews Catalog full 251 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shemptacular The Two Guys with PhDs have been on hiatus for a couple of months -- as they explain in this episode, life matters prevented new episodes -- but now the weekly review show is back...and with a vengeance. On this episode, Gene and Derek look through the October Previews catalog. There's a lot packed into this month's solicits, and the guys have their hands full. But Gene and Derek rise to the occasion and highlight a variety of upcoming titles from publishers such as: Dark Horse Comics - Incognegro, Joe Golem: Occult Detective: Flesh and Blood #1, Inside Moebius, and The Secret Loves of Geeks DC/Vertigo - DC Universe Holiday Special 2017, Imaginary Fiends #2, and Savage Things IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Assassinistas #1, We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust, Screwball: The Cartoonists Who Made the Funnies Funny, Four Women, and Comic Book History of Comics: Comics for All #1 Image Comics - Curse Words Holiday Special, Paradiso #1, Sleepless #1, and The Divided States of Hysteria Aardvark-Vanaheim - The Vark Knight Returns #1 Abstract Studios - Terry Moore 25th Anniversary Sketchbook: 8,800 Days of Blondes, Brunettes, and Bozos Aftershock Comics - Monstro Mechanica #1 and Backways #1 Alternative Comics - Nurse Nurse Archie Comics - The Mighty Crusaders #1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - How to Be Alive BOOM! Studios - Judas #1, Klaus and the Crisis in Xmasville #1, Pizzeria Kamikaze, Grass Kings Vol. 1, and Rust Vol. 4 Conundrum Press - Getting Out of Hope, Mister Morgen, and The Collected Neil the Horse Dynamite Entertainment - Barbarella #1 Drawn and Quarterly - It Don't Come Easy Fantagraphics Books - Love and Rockets #4, Blubber #5, Angels and Magpies: The Love and Rockets Library Vol. 13, Drew Friedman's Chosen People, The Lie and How We Told It, Night Business, and Sparring with Gil Kane: Debating the History and Aesthetics of Comics Humanoids - The Magical Twins Kodansha Comics - Inuyashiki Vols. 9 & 10 and Happiness Vol. 6 NBM - Portugal One Peace Books - Dostoyevsky: The Life and Work Oni Press - You Have Killed Me Sunday Press Books - Crazy Quilt: Scraps and Panels on the Way to Gasoline Alley Titan Comics - The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest: Millennium #1, The Girl Who Handcuffed Houdini #2, and Quarry's War #2 Vertical Comics - Blame! Vol. 6 VIZ Media - Shiver, Platinum End Vol. 4, Assassination Classroom Vol. 19, and Golden Kamuy Vol. 3 Hermes Press - Joe Sinnott: Embellishing Life

The Two Guys with PhDs have been on hiatus for a couple of months -- as they explain in this episode, life matters prevented new episodes -- but now the weekly review show is back...and with a vengeance. On this episode, Gene and Derek look through the October Previews catalog. There's a lot packed into this month's solicits, and the guys have their hands full. But Gene and Derek rise to the occasion and highlight a variety of upcoming titles from publishers such as:

]]> 5695 no Young Readers: Reviews of A Different Pond, Swing It, Sunny, and Pashmina http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-a-different-pond-swing-it-sunny-and-pashmina Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:04:29 - A Different Pond 00:15:30 - Swing It, Sunny 00:32:50 - Pashmina 00:53:04 - A young reader's perspective 01:25:39 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers podcast, Gwen and Paul discuss three comics that run the gamut from early readers up to teens. First on deck, they discuss Bao Phi and Thi Bui’s A Different Pond (Capstone Young Readers), a children’s hybrid picture book/comic that focuses on a bonding moment between a young boy and his father. Then, Gwen and Paul talk about Jennifer Holm and Matt Holm’s sequel to last year’s acclaimed Sunny Side-Up, Swing It, Sunny (Graphix), which sees preteen Sunny trying to figure out why her older brother has changed so much. Finally, the Two Academics Talking about Comics look at a middle/grade…or maybe YA text, Nidhi Chanani’s Pashmina (First Second), about a young immigrant who tries to gain a deeper understanding of her mother’s past in India. Also, Gwen and Paul have a special segment for this month’s episode, as Paul’s daughter tells us about her thoughts after reading two of our books, Swing It, Sunny and Pashmina. Mon, 02 Oct 2017 10:18:01 -0000 Young Readers: Reviews of A Different Pond, Swing It, Sunny, and Pashmina full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Perspectives Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:04:29 - A Different Pond 00:15:30 - Swing It, Sunny 00:32:50 - Pashmina 00:53:04 - A young reader's perspective 01:25:39 - Contact us On this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers podcast, Gwen and Paul discuss three comics that run the gamut from early readers up to teens. First on deck, they discuss Bao Phi and Thi Bui’s A Different Pond (Capstone Young Readers), a children’s hybrid picture book/comic that focuses on a bonding moment between a young boy and his father. Then, Gwen and Paul talk about Jennifer Holm and Matt Holm’s sequel to last year’s acclaimed Sunny Side-Up, Swing It, Sunny (Graphix), which sees preteen Sunny trying to figure out why her older brother has changed so much. Finally, the Two Academics Talking about Comics look at a middle/grade…or maybe YA text, Nidhi Chanani’s Pashmina (First Second), about a young immigrant who tries to gain a deeper understanding of her mother’s past in India. Also, Gwen and Paul have a special segment for this month’s episode, as Paul’s daughter tells us about her thoughts after reading two of our books, Swing It, Sunny and Pashmina. Time Codes:

On this episode of the Comics Alternative Young Readers podcast, Gwen and Paul discuss three comics that run the gamut from early readers up to teens.

First on deck, they discuss Bao Phi and Thi Bui’s A Different Pond (Capstone Young Readers), a children’s hybrid picture book/comic that focuses on a bonding moment between a young boy and his father.

Then, Gwen and Paul talk about Jennifer Holm and Matt Holm’s sequel to last year’s acclaimed Sunny Side-Up, Swing It, Sunny (Graphix), which sees preteen Sunny trying to figure out why her older brother has changed so much.

Finally, the Two Academics Talking about Comics look at a middle/grade…or maybe YA text, Nidhi Chanani’s Pashmina (First Second), about a young immigrant who tries to gain a deeper understanding of her mother’s past in India.

Also, Gwen and Paul have a special segment for this month’s episode, as Paul’s daughter tells us about her thoughts after reading two of our books, Swing It, Sunny and Pashmina.

]]> 5365 no Young Readers: A Roundtable Discussion on Contemporary Issues in Children’s and Young Adult Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-a-roundtable-discussion-on-contemporary-issues-in-childrens-and-young-adult-comics Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:06 - Roundtable discussion with Charles Hatfield and Krystal Howard 01:25:00 - Wrap up 01:27:49 - Contact us For this Young Readers show, Paul and Gwen change things up a bit by hosting a roundtable on the state of children’s and YA comics with two amazing scholars: Dr. Charles Hatfield, professor in the department of English at California State University, Northridge, and his new college, Dr. Krystal Howard, an assistant professor who is dual appointed in English and Liberal Studies. The conversation in this month’s episode includes a number of timely topics, including the way scholars define children’s and YA comics, the challenges and benefits of teaching children’s comics, and the exciting formal aspects of comics, as well as other categories, such as verse novels. Charles had just returned from the San Diego Comic Con, and he shared a list of sessions that were held in conjunction with SDCC at the San Diego Public Library, as well as commentary on this year’s nominees in the three award areas devoted to young readers: Best Publication for Early Readers, Best Publication for Kids, and Best Publication for Teens. Another rich topic for discussion among the panelists was the portrayal of children in comics written for adults. Recent releases mentioned in this regard included Emil Ferris’ My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Nick Drnaso’s Beverly, and Brecht Evens’ Panther. Recommended children’s texts that seem to be breaking conventions include Eric Orchard’s Bera, the One-Headed Troll, Drew Weing’s The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, and favorite texts to teach included Luke Pearson’s Hilda series, Barry Deutsch’s Hereville series, and Lewis/Aydin/Powell’s March series, among others. If listeners have been looking for a good list of must-read children’s and YA comics, this roundtable delivers on that count. Thu, 10 Aug 2017 01:05:37 -0000 Young Readers: A Roundtable Discussion on Contemporary Issues in Children’s and Young Adult Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talking It Out Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:06 - Roundtable discussion with Charles Hatfield and Krystal Howard 01:25:00 - Wrap up 01:27:49 - Contact us For this Young Readers show, Paul and Gwen change things up a bit by hosting a roundtable on the state of children’s and YA comics with two amazing scholars: Dr. Charles Hatfield, professor in the department of English at California State University, Northridge, and his new college, Dr. Krystal Howard, an assistant professor who is dual appointed in English and Liberal Studies. The conversation in this month’s episode includes a number of timely topics, including the way scholars define children’s and YA comics, the challenges and benefits of teaching children’s comics, and the exciting formal aspects of comics, as well as other categories, such as verse novels. Charles had just returned from the San Diego Comic Con, and he shared a list of sessions that were held in conjunction with SDCC at the San Diego Public Library, as well as commentary on this year’s nominees in the three award areas devoted to young readers: Best Publication for Early Readers, Best Publication for Kids, and Best Publication for Teens. Another rich topic for discussion among the panelists was the portrayal of children in comics written for adults. Recent releases mentioned in this regard included Emil Ferris’ My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Nick Drnaso’s Beverly, and Brecht Evens’ Panther. Recommended children’s texts that seem to be breaking conventions include Eric Orchard’s Bera, the One-Headed Troll, Drew Weing’s The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, and favorite texts to teach included Luke Pearson’s Hilda series, Barry Deutsch’s Hereville series, and Lewis/Aydin/Powell’s March series, among others. If listeners have been looking for a good list of must-read children’s and YA comics, this roundtable delivers on that count. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:03:06 - Roundtable discussion with Charles Hatfield and Krystal Howard
  • 01:25:00 - Wrap up
  • 01:27:49 - Contact us

For this Young Readers show, Paul and Gwen change things up a bit by hosting a roundtable on the state of children’s and YA comics with two amazing scholars: Dr. Charles Hatfield, professor in the department of English at California State University, Northridge, and his new college, Dr. Krystal Howard, an assistant professor who is dual appointed in English and Liberal Studies.

The conversation in this month’s episode includes a number of timely topics, including the way scholars define children’s and YA comics, the challenges and benefits of teaching children’s comics, and the exciting formal aspects of comics, as well as other categories, such as verse novels.

Charles had just returned from the San Diego Comic Con, and he shared a list of sessions that were held in conjunction with SDCC at the San Diego Public Library, as well as commentary on this year’s nominees in the three award areas devoted to young readers: Best Publication for Early Readers, Best Publication for Kids, and Best Publication for Teens.

Another rich topic for discussion among the panelists was the portrayal of children in comics written for adults. Recent releases mentioned in this regard included Emil Ferris’ My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Nick Drnaso’s Beverly, and Brecht Evens’ Panther. Recommended children’s texts that seem to be breaking conventions include Eric Orchard’s Bera, the One-Headed Troll, Drew Weing’s The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, and favorite texts to teach included Luke Pearson’s Hilda series, Barry Deutsch’s Hereville series, and Lewis/Aydin/Powell’s March series, among others.

If listeners have been looking for a good list of must-read children’s and YA comics, this roundtable delivers on that count.

]]> 5476 no Episode 250: Reviews of The Death of Stalin, Moonstruck #1, and Kros: Hallowed Ground http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-250-reviews-of-the-death-of-stalin-moonstruck-1-and-kros-hallowed-ground Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Comments on the 2017 Eisner Award winners 00:14:49 - The Death of Stalin 00:41:52 - Moonstruck #1 01:02:16 - Kros: Hallowed Ground 01:33:14 - Wrap up 01:34:25 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative's regular review show, the Two Guys discuss three recent titles, all of which involve monsters....or outsiders, depending on your perspective. They begin with The Death of Stalin, written by Fabien Nury and with art by Thierry Robin (Titan Comics). This is a translation of a French text that is soon to be released as a major motion picture in the UK, and then eventually coming to the US. It's the semi-historical account of the death of Joseph Stalin and the unusual circumstances surrounding that event. As Andy and Derek point out, Nury's dark sense of humor is apparent throughout, while Robin's art captures the grittiness of the context. Next, the guys move on to Grace Ellis, Shae Beagle, and Kate Leth's Moonstruck #1 (Image Comics). The story takes place in an urban setting, with young people going about their daily, and sometimes wacky, lives...sort of like something out of Seinfeld or Friends. However, what marks this series is its fantastical nature: everyone is a mythical figure of some sort. While Leth provides a bit of the art, the lion's share goes to newcomer Shae Beagle, which is a stand out. And although both guys had wondered when they read the original solicit if this series may be a bit too "cute," they find Ellis's story mature in a way they hadn't expected. Finally, Andy and Derek do something they haven't really done before: review a title that is only available through a Kickerstarter campaign. Tom Mandrake and John Ostrander's Kros: Hallowed Ground takes place during the horrific yet decisive Battle of Gettysburg, but it's more than just a war story. This is a landscape populated by vampires. And what better feeding ground for bloodsuckers than this battlefield? On it's own, this narrative leaves open a few questions, but the guys sense that this is the first in a series of Kros tales that will flesh out a larger storyworld. They hope that this, as well as other future installments, might find its way to print in the future.   Wed, 09 Aug 2017 13:07:44 -0000 Reviews of The Death of Stalin, Moonstruck #1, and Kros: Hallowed Ground full 250 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Monsters...or Others Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Comments on the 2017 Eisner Award winners 00:14:49 - The Death of Stalin 00:41:52 - Moonstruck #1 01:02:16 - Kros: Hallowed Ground 01:33:14 - Wrap up 01:34:25 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative's regular review show, the Two Guys discuss three recent titles, all of which involve monsters....or outsiders, depending on your perspective. They begin with The Death of Stalin, written by Fabien Nury and with art by Thierry Robin (Titan Comics). This is a translation of a French text that is soon to be released as a major motion picture in the UK, and then eventually coming to the US. It's the semi-historical account of the death of Joseph Stalin and the unusual circumstances surrounding that event. As Andy and Derek point out, Nury's dark sense of humor is apparent throughout, while Robin's art captures the grittiness of the context. Next, the guys move on to Grace Ellis, Shae Beagle, and Kate Leth's Moonstruck #1 (Image Comics). The story takes place in an urban setting, with young people going about their daily, and sometimes wacky, lives...sort of like something out of Seinfeld or Friends. However, what marks this series is its fantastical nature: everyone is a mythical figure of some sort. While Leth provides a bit of the art, the lion's share goes to newcomer Shae Beagle, which is a stand out. And although both guys had wondered when they read the original solicit if this series may be a bit too "cute," they find Ellis's story mature in a way they hadn't expected. Finally, Andy and Derek do something they haven't really done before: review a title that is only available through a Kickerstarter campaign. Tom Mandrake and John Ostrander's Kros: Hallowed Ground takes place during the horrific yet decisive Battle of Gettysburg, but it's more than just a war story. This is a landscape populated by vampires. And what better feeding ground for bloodsuckers than this battlefield? On it's own, this narrative leaves open a few questions, but the guys sense that this is the first in a series of Kros tales that will flesh out a larger storyworld. They hope that this, as well as other future installments, might find its way to print in the future.   Time Codes:

This week on The Comics Alternative's regular review show, the Two Guys discuss three recent titles, all of which involve monsters....or outsiders, depending on your perspective. They begin with The Death of Stalin, written by Fabien Nury and with art by Thierry Robin (Titan Comics). This is a translation of a French text that is soon to be released as a major motion picture in the UK, and then eventually coming to the US. It's the semi-historical account of the death of Joseph Stalin and the unusual circumstances surrounding that event. As Andy and Derek point out, Nury's dark sense of humor is apparent throughout, while Robin's art captures the grittiness of the context.

Next, the guys move on to Grace Ellis, Shae Beagle, and Kate Leth's Moonstruck #1 (Image Comics). The story takes place in an urban setting, with young people going about their daily, and sometimes wacky, lives...sort of like something out of Seinfeld or Friends. However, what marks this series is its fantastical nature: everyone is a mythical figure of some sort. While Leth provides a bit of the art, the lion's share goes to newcomer Shae Beagle, which is a stand out. And although both guys had wondered when they read the original solicit if this series may be a bit too "cute," they find Ellis's story mature in a way they hadn't expected.

Finally, Andy and Derek do something they haven't really done before: review a title that is only available through a Kickerstarter campaign. Tom Mandrake and John Ostrander's Kros: Hallowed Ground takes place during the horrific yet decisive Battle of Gettysburg, but it's more than just a war story. This is a landscape populated by vampires. And what better feeding ground for bloodsuckers than this battlefield? On it's own, this narrative leaves open a few questions, but the guys sense that this is the first in a series of Kros tales that will flesh out a larger storyworld. They hope that this, as well as other future installments, might find its way to print in the future.

 

]]> 5842 no On Location: Our Last (?) Visit to Valhalla Games and Comic http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-our-last-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comic This just may be the last on-location episode of The Comics Alternative conducted from Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX. Derek is moving to North Carolina and will no longer be in the DFW area to do these shows. But customers of Valhalla and friends of the podcast, both long-timers and new listeners, come by the shop to say a fond farewell...and talk about comics. Joining Derek for this special episode are Craig, Matt, Jay, Tristan, and Kelly. Their interests are diverse, so the conversation reflects that. And they cover a lot of ground, so listen up! Partings are tough. But as David Gates once sang, "Goodbye doesn't mean forever." Tue, 08 Aug 2017 19:44:30 -0000 On Location: Our Last (?) Visit to Valhalla Games and Comic full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow This just may be the last on-location episode of The Comics Alternative conducted from Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX. Derek is moving to North Carolina and will no longer be in the DFW area to do these shows. But customers of Valhalla and friends of the podcast, both long-timers and new listeners, come by the shop to say a fond farewell...and talk about comics. Joining Derek for this special episode are Craig, Matt, Jay, Tristan, and Kelly. Their interests are diverse, so the conversation reflects that. And they cover a lot of ground, so listen up! Partings are tough. But as David Gates once sang, "Goodbye doesn't mean forever."

This just may be the last on-location episode of The Comics Alternative conducted from Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX. Derek is moving to North Carolina and will no longer be in the DFW area to do these shows. But customers of Valhalla and friends of the podcast, both long-timers and new listeners, come by the shop to say a fond farewell...and talk about comics. Joining Derek for this special episode are Craig, Matt, Jay, Tristan, and Kelly. Their interests are diverse, so the conversation reflects that. And they cover a lot of ground, so listen up!

Partings are tough. But as David Gates once sang, "Goodbye doesn't mean forever."

]]> 5366 no Euro Comics: Review of Valerian and Laureline http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-review-of-valerian-and-laureline Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:23 - Setup, and a big thanks to Jerome Saincantin! 00:05:01 - Valerian and Laureline 01:13:46 - Wrap up 01:15:10 - Contact us This month on The Comics Alternative's Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek devote the entire episode to Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières's Valerian and Laureline series. They do this within the context of Luc Besson's new film Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. As the guys point out, the series' English publisher, Cinebook, has begun to release new hardbound two-volume editions of title, but Derek and Edward are reviewing from the paperback single-story editions that have been available previously. In all, they discuss volumes 1-4, 6, 9-13, and 15, published through Cinebook between October 2010 and December 2016. Among the many elements of Valerian and Laureline that they discuss are the evolution of Christin's style over the course of the series, the ways in which the stories both adhere to and deviate from common science-fiction tropes, the strong (and non-objectifying) representations of Laureline, the title's colorful cast of secondary or supporting figures, the series' all-age quality, and the subtle ways in which the creators embed current (at the time of creation) socio-political contexts within the narrative. Even the guys only focus on one title this month, there's more than enough to cover on this episode. Fri, 21 Jul 2017 17:16:30 -0000 Euro Comics: Review of Valerian and Laureline full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sci Fi, French Style Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:03:23 - Setup, and a big thanks to Jerome Saincantin! 00:05:01 - Valerian and Laureline 01:13:46 - Wrap up 01:15:10 - Contact us This month on The Comics Alternative's Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek devote the entire episode to Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières's Valerian and Laureline series. They do this within the context of Luc Besson's new film Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. As the guys point out, the series' English publisher, Cinebook, has begun to release new hardbound two-volume editions of title, but Derek and Edward are reviewing from the paperback single-story editions that have been available previously. In all, they discuss volumes 1-4, 6, 9-13, and 15, published through Cinebook between October 2010 and December 2016. Among the many elements of Valerian and Laureline that they discuss are the evolution of Christin's style over the course of the series, the ways in which the stories both adhere to and deviate from common science-fiction tropes, the strong (and non-objectifying) representations of Laureline, the title's colorful cast of secondary or supporting figures, the series' all-age quality, and the subtle ways in which the creators embed current (at the time of creation) socio-political contexts within the narrative. Even the guys only focus on one title this month, there's more than enough to cover on this episode. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:03:23 - Setup, and a big thanks to Jerome Saincantin!
  • 00:05:01 - Valerian and Laureline
  • 01:13:46 - Wrap up
  • 01:15:10 - Contact us

This month on The Comics Alternative's Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek devote the entire episode to Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières's Valerian and Laureline series. They do this within the context of Luc Besson's new film Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. As the guys point out, the series' English publisher, Cinebook, has begun to release new hardbound two-volume editions of title, but Derek and Edward are reviewing from the paperback single-story editions that have been available previously. In all, they discuss volumes 1-4, 6, 9-13, and 15, published through Cinebook between October 2010 and December 2016.

Among the many elements of Valerian and Laureline that they discuss are the evolution of Christin's style over the course of the series, the ways in which the stories both adhere to and deviate from common science-fiction tropes, the strong (and non-objectifying) representations of Laureline, the title's colorful cast of secondary or supporting figures, the series' all-age quality, and the subtle ways in which the creators embed current (at the time of creation) socio-political contexts within the narrative. Even the guys only focus on one title this month, there's more than enough to cover on this episode.

]]> 4684 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Ger Apeldoorn http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-ger-apeldoorn Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:24 - Setup of interview 00:03:34 - Interview with Ger Apeldoorn 01:06:35 - Wrap up 01:08:17 - Contact us Just in time for the San Diego Comic-Con -- where he and Craig Yoe will be meeting with fans and signing books -- Ger Apeldoorn is on the show to talk with Derek about his new book, Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-off, Satire Magazines (IDW/Yoe Books). It's a beautifully produced work that highlights the many knockoffs of Bill Gaines's Mad that appeared between 1954 to 1959, attempting to capitalize on the kind of success the Usual Gang of Idiots enjoyed once the title changed to magazine format. These Mad wannabes appeared with such titles as From Here to Insanity, Cockeyed, Bunk!, SNAFU, Lunatickle, Who Goofed?, Thimk, Shook Up, Frenzy, Frantic!, Loco, Zany, and Nuts! You might think -- or thimk -- that these rip-offs would all be cheesy and subpar, but as Ger makes clear, these short-lived satire magazines included work from such comics legends as Jack Davis, Al Jaffee, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Joe Kubert, Howard Nostrand, Bob Powell, Ross Andru, Basil Wolverton, and Russ Heath. Derivative and second-rate? Perhaps. But the selections in Behaving Madly are no laughing matter. Well...actually, they are. Check out this great promo from Yoe Books!   Thu, 20 Jul 2017 14:03:29 -0000 An Interview with Ger Apeldoorn full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wannabes Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:24 - Setup of interview 00:03:34 - Interview with Ger Apeldoorn 01:06:35 - Wrap up 01:08:17 - Contact us Just in time for the San Diego Comic-Con -- where he and Craig Yoe will be meeting with fans and signing books -- Ger Apeldoorn is on the show to talk with Derek about his new book, Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-off, Satire Magazines (IDW/Yoe Books). It's a beautifully produced work that highlights the many knockoffs of Bill Gaines's Mad that appeared between 1954 to 1959, attempting to capitalize on the kind of success the Usual Gang of Idiots enjoyed once the title changed to magazine format. These Mad wannabes appeared with such titles as From Here to Insanity, Cockeyed, Bunk!, SNAFU, Lunatickle, Who Goofed?, Thimk, Shook Up, Frenzy, Frantic!, Loco, Zany, and Nuts! You might think -- or thimk -- that these rip-offs would all be cheesy and subpar, but as Ger makes clear, these short-lived satire magazines included work from such comics legends as Jack Davis, Al Jaffee, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Joe Kubert, Howard Nostrand, Bob Powell, Ross Andru, Basil Wolverton, and Russ Heath. Derivative and second-rate? Perhaps. But the selections in Behaving Madly are no laughing matter. Well...actually, they are. Check out this great promo from Yoe Books!   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:24 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:34 - Interview with Ger Apeldoorn
  • 01:06:35 - Wrap up
  • 01:08:17 - Contact us

Just in time for the San Diego Comic-Con -- where he and Craig Yoe will be meeting with fans and signing books -- Ger Apeldoorn is on the show to talk with Derek about his new book, Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-off, Satire Magazines (IDW/Yoe Books). It's a beautifully produced work that highlights the many knockoffs of Bill Gaines's Mad that appeared between 1954 to 1959, attempting to capitalize on the kind of success the Usual Gang of Idiots enjoyed once the title changed to magazine format. These Mad wannabes appeared with such titles as From Here to Insanity, Cockeyed, Bunk!, SNAFU, Lunatickle, Who Goofed?, Thimk, Shook Up, Frenzy, Frantic!, Loco, Zany, and Nuts! You might think -- or thimk -- that these rip-offs would all be cheesy and subpar, but as Ger makes clear, these short-lived satire magazines included work from such comics legends as Jack Davis, Al Jaffee, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Joe Kubert, Howard Nostrand, Bob Powell, Ross Andru, Basil Wolverton, and Russ Heath. Derivative and second-rate? Perhaps. But the selections in Behaving Madly are no laughing matter. Well...actually, they are.

Check out this great promo from Yoe Books!

 

]]> 4274 no Episode 249: Reviews of Reich, The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1, and Time and Vine #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-249-reviews-of-reich-the-american-way-those-above-and-those-below-1-and-time-and-vine-1 Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:02:58 - Checking in 00:04:42 - Reich 00:48:27 - The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 01:10:26 - Time and Vine #1 01:31:08 - Wrap up 01:32:04 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three very different titles. They begin with Elijah Brubaker's Reich, a twelve-issue biography published by Sparkplug Comics and distributed through Alternative Comics. The series reveals the life of Wilhelm Reich, the Austrian-American psychoanalyst known for his influential work in character analysis, his advocacy of orgastic potency, and, more controversially, his theories surrounding orgonomy. After that they discuss The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 (Vertigo Comics). Written by John Ridley with art by George Jeanty, this is a sequel to their eight-issue Wildstorm series that came out in 2008. Then Andy and Derek wrap things up with Time and Vine #1 (IDW Publishing), Thom Zahler's followup to his 2015 miniseries Long Distance. The guys note that this latest title bears all the markings of Zahler's previous work, including Love and Capes: engaging art, impressive dialogue, and nuanced character interaction that is both romantic and witty. Wed, 19 Jul 2017 03:05:28 -0000 Reviews of Reich, The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1, and Time and Vine #1 full 249 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sexual Healing Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:02:58 - Checking in 00:04:42 - Reich 00:48:27 - The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 01:10:26 - Time and Vine #1 01:31:08 - Wrap up 01:32:04 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three very different titles. They begin with Elijah Brubaker's Reich, a twelve-issue biography published by Sparkplug Comics and distributed through Alternative Comics. The series reveals the life of Wilhelm Reich, the Austrian-American psychoanalyst known for his influential work in character analysis, his advocacy of orgastic potency, and, more controversially, his theories surrounding orgonomy. After that they discuss The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 (Vertigo Comics). Written by John Ridley with art by George Jeanty, this is a sequel to their eight-issue Wildstorm series that came out in 2008. Then Andy and Derek wrap things up with Time and Vine #1 (IDW Publishing), Thom Zahler's followup to his 2015 miniseries Long Distance. The guys note that this latest title bears all the markings of Zahler's previous work, including Love and Capes: engaging art, impressive dialogue, and nuanced character interaction that is both romantic and witty. Time Codes:

This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three very different titles. They begin with Elijah Brubaker's Reich, a twelve-issue biography published by Sparkplug Comics and distributed through Alternative Comics. The series reveals the life of Wilhelm Reich, the Austrian-American psychoanalyst known for his influential work in character analysis, his advocacy of orgastic potency, and, more controversially, his theories surrounding orgonomy. After that they discuss The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 (Vertigo Comics). Written by John Ridley with art by George Jeanty, this is a sequel to their eight-issue Wildstorm series that came out in 2008. Then Andy and Derek wrap things up with Time and Vine #1 (IDW Publishing), Thom Zahler's followup to his 2015 miniseries Long Distance. The guys note that this latest title bears all the markings of Zahler's previous work, including Love and Capes: engaging art, impressive dialogue, and nuanced character interaction that is both romantic and witty.

]]> 5704 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Gabrielle Bell http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-gabrielle-bell Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:21 - Interview with Gabrielle Bell 01:00:03 - Wrap up 01:01:21 - Contact us On this interview episode Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Gabrielle Bell. Her latest book, Everything Is Flammable, came out recently from Uncivilized Books. The guys talk with Gabrielle extensively about the idea for this book -- described as her first long-form graphic memoir -- and how it evolved from her work on short diary pieces. What binds most of the entries in Everything Is Flammable are her experiences with her mother after her northern California house was destroyed in a fire. The guys also ask her about her annual event, the July diary, a project in which she was in the middle of at the time of this recording. Gabrielle discusses both the pleasures and the struggles of completing her self-imposed month-long project and how this year's daily stories surround her time house- and pet-sitting for her friend and publisher, Tom Kaczynski. Along the way, Gabrielle reveals her various thoughts on being a semi-autobiographical cartoonist, the uncertainties of including friends and family members in her comics, the responsibilities she feels in those representations, and the very problem of trying to pigeonhole her work within a particular genre or form. Tue, 18 Jul 2017 17:29:28 -0000 An Interview with Gabrielle Bell full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "The anxiety and the happiness are just so close together" Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:21 - Interview with Gabrielle Bell 01:00:03 - Wrap up 01:01:21 - Contact us On this interview episode Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Gabrielle Bell. Her latest book, Everything Is Flammable, came out recently from Uncivilized Books. The guys talk with Gabrielle extensively about the idea for this book -- described as her first long-form graphic memoir -- and how it evolved from her work on short diary pieces. What binds most of the entries in Everything Is Flammable are her experiences with her mother after her northern California house was destroyed in a fire. The guys also ask her about her annual event, the July diary, a project in which she was in the middle of at the time of this recording. Gabrielle discusses both the pleasures and the struggles of completing her self-imposed month-long project and how this year's daily stories surround her time house- and pet-sitting for her friend and publisher, Tom Kaczynski. Along the way, Gabrielle reveals her various thoughts on being a semi-autobiographical cartoonist, the uncertainties of including friends and family members in her comics, the responsibilities she feels in those representations, and the very problem of trying to pigeonhole her work within a particular genre or form. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:26 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:21 - Interview with Gabrielle Bell
  • 01:00:03 - Wrap up
  • 01:01:21 - Contact us

On this interview episode Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Gabrielle Bell. Her latest book, Everything Is Flammable, came out recently from Uncivilized Books. The guys talk with Gabrielle extensively about the idea for this book -- described as her first long-form graphic memoir -- and how it evolved from her work on short diary pieces. What binds most of the entries in Everything Is Flammable are her experiences with her mother after her northern California house was destroyed in a fire. The guys also ask her about her annual event, the July diary, a project in which she was in the middle of at the time of this recording. Gabrielle discusses both the pleasures and the struggles of completing her self-imposed month-long project and how this year's daily stories surround her time house- and pet-sitting for her friend and publisher, Tom Kaczynski. Along the way, Gabrielle reveals her various thoughts on being a semi-autobiographical cartoonist, the uncertainties of including friends and family members in her comics, the responsibilities she feels in those representations, and the very problem of trying to pigeonhole her work within a particular genre or form.

]]> 3862 no On Location: The Hernandez Brothers Panel at HeroesCon 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-hernandez-brothers-panel-at-heroescon-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of the recording 00:04:30 - The Hernandez brothers panel at HeroesCon 01:08:05 - Wrap up 01:09:46 - Contact us At this year's HeroesCon, Andy and Derek moderated a couple of panels, one of which was entirely devoted to the Hernandez brothers, Gilbert and Jaime. In this on-location episode, you'll hear the Two Guys talking with the brothers about their new magazine-sized Love and Rockets series, the logistics of going from an annual to a quarterly, the experiences of continuity and 35+ years of character development, their efforts (especially Gilbert's) in producing standalone works outside of any serialized format, their historical places within the larger context of non-mainstream comics, and the brothers' thoughts on the current state of the medium. Mon, 17 Jul 2017 11:18:47 -0000 On Location: The Hernandez Brothers Panel at HeroesCon 2017 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Big Deal Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:22 - Setup of the recording 00:04:30 - The Hernandez brothers panel at HeroesCon 01:08:05 - Wrap up 01:09:46 - Contact us At this year's HeroesCon, Andy and Derek moderated a couple of panels, one of which was entirely devoted to the Hernandez brothers, Gilbert and Jaime. In this on-location episode, you'll hear the Two Guys talking with the brothers about their new magazine-sized Love and Rockets series, the logistics of going from an annual to a quarterly, the experiences of continuity and 35+ years of character development, their efforts (especially Gilbert's) in producing standalone works outside of any serialized format, their historical places within the larger context of non-mainstream comics, and the brothers' thoughts on the current state of the medium. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:22 - Setup of the recording
  • 00:04:30 - The Hernandez brothers panel at HeroesCon
  • 01:08:05 - Wrap up
  • 01:09:46 - Contact us

At this year's HeroesCon, Andy and Derek moderated a couple of panels, one of which was entirely devoted to the Hernandez brothers, Gilbert and Jaime. In this on-location episode, you'll hear the Two Guys talking with the brothers about their new magazine-sized Love and Rockets series, the logistics of going from an annual to a quarterly, the experiences of continuity and 35+ years of character development, their efforts (especially Gilbert's) in producing standalone works outside of any serialized format, their historical places within the larger context of non-mainstream comics, and the brothers' thoughts on the current state of the medium.

]]> 4365 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Denis Kitchen http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-denis-kitchen Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Denis Kitchen 01:09:50 - Wrap up 01:11:09 - Contact us Andy and Derek are happy to have Denis Kitchen back on The Comics Alternative. On his previous appearance surrounded Will Eisner Week 2015, but this time, he discusses the Will Eisner centennial as well as his work on the Essential Kurtzman volumes. Earlier this year Dark Horse Books, through the Kitchen Sink Books imprint, published Will Eisner: The Centennial Celebration: 1917-2017, a dual English-French album based on recent exhibitions at Le Musée de la Bande Dessinée in Angoulême and the Society of Illustrators in New York. Denis served as one of the curators of those exhibits, as well as one of the authors of the catalogue. He talks with the guys about his experiences helping to pull everything together for the exhibitions and working with John Lind (his Kitchen Sink Books colleague) on the centennial volume. Derek and Andy also ask him about his work on the Essential Kurtzman library, also published through Dark Horse and its Kitchen Sink Books imprint. They get the lowdown on the first two works in the series, Harvey Kurtzman's Jungle Book and Trump: The Complete Collection, as well as what we might expect in future volumes. The Two Guys also ask Denis about future projects from him, as not only an editor, but as an artist. He's a little close-to-the-vest with the specifics, but nonetheless suggests that important news is to come. Fri, 14 Jul 2017 14:57:00 -0000 An Interview with Denis Kitchen full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Working on (and with) the Masters Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Denis Kitchen 01:09:50 - Wrap up 01:11:09 - Contact us Andy and Derek are happy to have Denis Kitchen back on The Comics Alternative. On his previous appearance surrounded Will Eisner Week 2015, but this time, he discusses the Will Eisner centennial as well as his work on the Essential Kurtzman volumes. Earlier this year Dark Horse Books, through the Kitchen Sink Books imprint, published Will Eisner: The Centennial Celebration: 1917-2017, a dual English-French album based on recent exhibitions at Le Musée de la Bande Dessinée in Angoulême and the Society of Illustrators in New York. Denis served as one of the curators of those exhibits, as well as one of the authors of the catalogue. He talks with the guys about his experiences helping to pull everything together for the exhibitions and working with John Lind (his Kitchen Sink Books colleague) on the centennial volume. Derek and Andy also ask him about his work on the Essential Kurtzman library, also published through Dark Horse and its Kitchen Sink Books imprint. They get the lowdown on the first two works in the series, Harvey Kurtzman's Jungle Book and Trump: The Complete Collection, as well as what we might expect in future volumes. The Two Guys also ask Denis about future projects from him, as not only an editor, but as an artist. He's a little close-to-the-vest with the specifics, but nonetheless suggests that important news is to come. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:42 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:01 - Interview with Denis Kitchen
  • 01:09:50 - Wrap up
  • 01:11:09 - Contact us

Andy and Derek are happy to have Denis Kitchen back on The Comics Alternative. On his previous appearance surrounded Will Eisner Week 2015, but this time, he discusses the Will Eisner centennial as well as his work on the Essential Kurtzman volumes. Earlier this year Dark Horse Books, through the Kitchen Sink Books imprint, published Will Eisner: The Centennial Celebration: 1917-2017, a dual English-French album based on recent exhibitions at Le Musée de la Bande Dessinée in Angoulême and the Society of Illustrators in New York. Denis served as one of the curators of those exhibits, as well as one of the authors of the catalogue. He talks with the guys about his experiences helping to pull everything together for the exhibitions and working with John Lind (his Kitchen Sink Books colleague) on the centennial volume. Derek and Andy also ask him about his work on the Essential Kurtzman library, also published through Dark Horse and its Kitchen Sink Books imprint. They get the lowdown on the first two works in the series, Harvey Kurtzman's Jungle Book and Trump: The Complete Collection, as well as what we might expect in future volumes. The Two Guys also ask Denis about future projects from him, as not only an editor, but as an artist. He's a little close-to-the-vest with the specifics, but nonetheless suggests that important news is to come.

]]> 4448 no Episode 248: Reviews of Outburst, Steam Clean, and Resist! Vol. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-248-reviews-of-outburst-steam-clean-and-resist-vol-2 Time Codes: 00:01:26 - Introduction 00:03:38 - Thank you to Red Pegasus Comics! 00:08:36 - Outburst 00:32:32 - Steam Clean 00:44:57 - Resist! Vol. 2 01:24:37 - Wrap up 01:25:36 - Contact us "Smell my book. Feel bad." On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at there new releases...and even smell them. They begin with Pieter Coudyzer's Outburst (SelfMadeHero), a surreal meditation on creative expression and not fitting in. The narrative can even be called an example of magical realism (and the guys don't apply that term indiscriminately), where the natural world not only becomes a refuge from human interaction, but also literally infiltrates and consumes the marginalized. Next they discuss a recent release from one of their favorite publishers, Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics. Laura Ķeniņš's Steam Clean is a short yet poignant look at the challenges women and gender non-binary individuals face in their day-to-day lives. The story takes place at a women's sauna party in some Scandinavian country, and its varied attendees use this gathering to explore their relationships and "sweat out" their frustrations. Finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with an in-depth look at the second volume of the freebie newspaper Resist! Edited by Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman, this latest release is similar to the first -- which the guys reviewed earlier this year -- and includes contributions from well-established as well as younger and first-time artists. Familiar names that the guys discuss include Roz Chast, Cathy Malkasian, Miss Lasko-Gross, Carol Lay, Kristen Radtke, Pénélope Bagieu, and Glynnis Fawkes, but they are equally impressed with artists and cartoonists new to them. These include Palmer Frankel’s "Dickface" series of paintings, Ana Christine's "Persistence," and a unique call-to-action from an anonymous contributor working for a Catholic hospital. A special thanks to Red Pegasus Comics in Dallas, TX, for providing the Two Guys with their copies of Resist! Vol. 2! Wed, 12 Jul 2017 03:33:03 -0000 Reviews of Outburst, Steam Clean, and Resist! Vol. 2 full 248 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Smell my book. Feel bad." Time Codes: 00:01:26 - Introduction 00:03:38 - Thank you to Red Pegasus Comics! 00:08:36 - Outburst 00:32:32 - Steam Clean 00:44:57 - Resist! Vol. 2 01:24:37 - Wrap up 01:25:36 - Contact us "Smell my book. Feel bad." On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at there new releases...and even smell them. They begin with Pieter Coudyzer's Outburst (SelfMadeHero), a surreal meditation on creative expression and not fitting in. The narrative can even be called an example of magical realism (and the guys don't apply that term indiscriminately), where the natural world not only becomes a refuge from human interaction, but also literally infiltrates and consumes the marginalized. Next they discuss a recent release from one of their favorite publishers, Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics. Laura Ķeniņš's Steam Clean is a short yet poignant look at the challenges women and gender non-binary individuals face in their day-to-day lives. The story takes place at a women's sauna party in some Scandinavian country, and its varied attendees use this gathering to explore their relationships and "sweat out" their frustrations. Finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with an in-depth look at the second volume of the freebie newspaper Resist! Edited by Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman, this latest release is similar to the first -- which the guys reviewed earlier this year -- and includes contributions from well-established as well as younger and first-time artists. Familiar names that the guys discuss include Roz Chast, Cathy Malkasian, Miss Lasko-Gross, Carol Lay, Kristen Radtke, Pénélope Bagieu, and Glynnis Fawkes, but they are equally impressed with artists and cartoonists new to them. These include Palmer Frankel’s "Dickface" series of paintings, Ana Christine's "Persistence," and a unique call-to-action from an anonymous contributor working for a Catholic hospital. A special thanks to Red Pegasus Comics in Dallas, TX, for providing the Two Guys with their copies of Resist! Vol. 2! Time Codes:

"Smell my book. Feel bad."

On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at there new releases...and even smell them. They begin with Pieter Coudyzer's Outburst (SelfMadeHero), a surreal meditation on creative expression and not fitting in. The narrative can even be called an example of magical realism (and the guys don't apply that term indiscriminately), where the natural world not only becomes a refuge from human interaction, but also literally infiltrates and consumes the marginalized. Next they discuss a recent release from one of their favorite publishers, Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics. Laura Ķeniņš's Steam Clean is a short yet poignant look at the challenges women and gender non-binary individuals face in their day-to-day lives. The story takes place at a women's sauna party in some Scandinavian country, and its varied attendees use this gathering to explore their relationships and "sweat out" their frustrations. Finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with an in-depth look at the second volume of the freebie newspaper Resist! Edited by Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman, this latest release is similar to the first -- which the guys reviewed earlier this year -- and includes contributions from well-established as well as younger and first-time artists. Familiar names that the guys discuss include Roz Chast, Cathy Malkasian, Miss Lasko-Gross, Carol Lay, Kristen Radtke, Pénélope Bagieu, and Glynnis Fawkes, but they are equally impressed with artists and cartoonists new to them. These include Palmer Frankel’s "Dickface" series of paintings, Ana Christine's "Persistence," and a unique call-to-action from an anonymous contributor working for a Catholic hospital.

A special thanks to Red Pegasus Comics in Dallas, TX, for providing the Two Guys with their copies of Resist! Vol. 2!

]]> 5339 yes Webcomics: Reviews of Gods Can't Die, Kamikaze, and The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-gods-cant-die-kamikaze-and-the-secret-life-of-gitmos-women Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:23 - Another jab at Eisner Award definitions 00:05:05 - Gods Can't Die 00:27:25 - Kamikaze 00:52:38 - The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women 01:15:59 - Wrap up 01:18:59 - Contact us   Sean and Derek are back with their monthly foray into the realm of webcomics. They begin with Z. Akhmatova's Gods Can't Die, a lavishly illustrated fantasy of adventure and self-discovery. This is a relatively young webcomic, beginning in April 2016, so readers can easily jump on board with its prologue and first chapter. It's the story of Ena, born of both human and god, as she searches for her deity father and encounters other gods and creatures along the way. Next, they discuss Kamikaze, a futuristic dystopic tale created by Alan Tupper, Carrie Tupper, and Havana Nguyen. Its teenage protagonist, Markesha Nin, is a lightning-fast courier making deliveries within competing corporate interests and trying to provide for her blind father. The guys can't help but think of CW's The Flash when discussing this series. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with Sarah Mirk and Lucy Bellwood's The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women. This already-completed webcomic appears in the online magazine Narratively, and it presents the first-person accounts of two female naval veterans and their experiences at Guantanamo Bay. The conflict in their stories isn't what you might expect, but instead have everything to do with the military's (and our culture's) patriarchal structures. Mon, 10 Jul 2017 02:32:11 -0000 Webcomics: Reviews of Gods Can't Die, Kamikaze, and The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Slow Build Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:23 - Another jab at Eisner Award definitions 00:05:05 - Gods Can't Die 00:27:25 - Kamikaze 00:52:38 - The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women 01:15:59 - Wrap up 01:18:59 - Contact us   Sean and Derek are back with their monthly foray into the realm of webcomics. They begin with Z. Akhmatova's Gods Can't Die, a lavishly illustrated fantasy of adventure and self-discovery. This is a relatively young webcomic, beginning in April 2016, so readers can easily jump on board with its prologue and first chapter. It's the story of Ena, born of both human and god, as she searches for her deity father and encounters other gods and creatures along the way. Next, they discuss Kamikaze, a futuristic dystopic tale created by Alan Tupper, Carrie Tupper, and Havana Nguyen. Its teenage protagonist, Markesha Nin, is a lightning-fast courier making deliveries within competing corporate interests and trying to provide for her blind father. The guys can't help but think of CW's The Flash when discussing this series. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with Sarah Mirk and Lucy Bellwood's The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women. This already-completed webcomic appears in the online magazine Narratively, and it presents the first-person accounts of two female naval veterans and their experiences at Guantanamo Bay. The conflict in their stories isn't what you might expect, but instead have everything to do with the military's (and our culture's) patriarchal structures. Time Codes:

 

Sean and Derek are back with their monthly foray into the realm of webcomics. They begin with Z. Akhmatova's Gods Can't Die, a lavishly illustrated fantasy of adventure and self-discovery. This is a relatively young webcomic, beginning in April 2016, so readers can easily jump on board with its prologue and first chapter. It's the story of Ena, born of both human and god, as she searches for her deity father and encounters other gods and creatures along the way. Next, they discuss Kamikaze, a futuristic dystopic tale created by Alan Tupper, Carrie Tupper, and Havana Nguyen. Its teenage protagonist, Markesha Nin, is a lightning-fast courier making deliveries within competing corporate interests and trying to provide for her blind father. The guys can't help but think of CW's The Flash when discussing this series. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with Sarah Mirk and Lucy Bellwood's The Secret Life of Gitmo's Women. This already-completed webcomic appears in the online magazine Narratively, and it presents the first-person accounts of two female naval veterans and their experiences at Guantanamo Bay. The conflict in their stories isn't what you might expect, but instead have everything to do with the military's (and our culture's) patriarchal structures.

]]> 4929 no Episode 247: The July Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-247-the-july-previews-catalog It's the first week of the month, so that must mean that it's time once again for Andy and Derek to check out the latest Previews catalog. As they go through the July solicitations, they highlight a variety of upcoming titles from publishers such as: Dark Horse Comics - Legacy: An Off-Color Novella for You to Color and Best Wishes DC/Vertigo - House of Secrets: The Bronze Age Omnibus and Sebastian O/The Mystery Play Deluxe Edition IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Elenora Mandragora: Daughter of Merlin, Alex Toth's The Case of the Curious Classic Artist's Edition Portfolio, Star Hawks Vol. 2, The Man from the Great North, Archie: A Celebration of America's Favorite Teenagers, The Limbo Lounge, I Am a Number, and Super Tokyoland Image Comics - Angelic #1, Glitterbomb: The Fame Game #1, Rat Queens Special: Orc Dave #1, The Realm #1, and Son of Shaolin Aardvark-Vanaheim - Aardvark Comics #1 AC Comics - The Charlton Arrow #1 AdHouse - Pope Hats #5 Aftershock Comics - Dark Ark #1 and Fu Jitsu #1 Alterna Comics - Mr. Crypt #1 Black Mask Studios - Black, Vol. 1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - What Is a Glacier? BOOM! Studios - Lazaretto #1, Bolivar, and Bad Mask Conundrum Press - Dreams in Thin Air, Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me, and Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey Dynamite Entertainment - John Wick #1 and James Bond: Casino Royale Dial Books - All's Faire in Middle School Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #21, The Poppies of Iraq, and Present Fantagraphics Books - Now #1, Peppy in the Wild West, Fred the Clown In..."The Iron Duchess", Beirut Won't Cry Firefly Books - Escape from Syria and Flight of the Grizzly First Second - Castle in the Stars: The Space Race of 1969, The Hunting Accident, Mighty Jack and the Goblin King, and Spinning Gallery 13 - Park Bench Humanoids - Halloween Tales and The Retreat  Knockabout Comics - Fifty Freakin' Years of the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers Lion Forge - Lighter Than My Shadow, Taproot, and Generations NBM - Pride of the Decent Man Oni Press - Made Men #1 SelfMadeHero - Nick Cave: Mercy on Me Seven Stories Press - At War with War Titan Comics - Hammer Comics: Captain Kronos #1 and The Beautiful Death #1 TwoMorrows Publishing - Groovy: When Flower Power Bloomed in Pop Culture VIZ Media - Death Note: All-in-One Edition, Sweet Blue Flowers Vol. 1, and Goodnight Punpun Vol. 7 Rizzoli - Chris Ware: Monograph Wed, 05 Jul 2017 15:40:23 -0000 The July Previews Catalog full 247 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal No Keanu. No Rock. It's the first week of the month, so that must mean that it's time once again for Andy and Derek to check out the latest Previews catalog. As they go through the July solicitations, they highlight a variety of upcoming titles from publishers such as: Dark Horse Comics - Legacy: An Off-Color Novella for You to Color and Best Wishes DC/Vertigo - House of Secrets: The Bronze Age Omnibus and Sebastian O/The Mystery Play Deluxe Edition IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Elenora Mandragora: Daughter of Merlin, Alex Toth's The Case of the Curious Classic Artist's Edition Portfolio, Star Hawks Vol. 2, The Man from the Great North, Archie: A Celebration of America's Favorite Teenagers, The Limbo Lounge, I Am a Number, and Super Tokyoland Image Comics - Angelic #1, Glitterbomb: The Fame Game #1, Rat Queens Special: Orc Dave #1, The Realm #1, and Son of Shaolin Aardvark-Vanaheim - Aardvark Comics #1 AC Comics - The Charlton Arrow #1 AdHouse - Pope Hats #5 Aftershock Comics - Dark Ark #1 and Fu Jitsu #1 Alterna Comics - Mr. Crypt #1 Black Mask Studios - Black, Vol. 1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - What Is a Glacier? BOOM! Studios - Lazaretto #1, Bolivar, and Bad Mask Conundrum Press - Dreams in Thin Air, Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me, and Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey Dynamite Entertainment - John Wick #1 and James Bond: Casino Royale Dial Books - All's Faire in Middle School Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #21, The Poppies of Iraq, and Present Fantagraphics Books - Now #1, Peppy in the Wild West, Fred the Clown In..."The Iron Duchess", Beirut Won't Cry Firefly Books - Escape from Syria and Flight of the Grizzly First Second - Castle in the Stars: The Space Race of 1969, The Hunting Accident, Mighty Jack and the Goblin King, and Spinning Gallery 13 - Park Bench Humanoids - Halloween Tales and The Retreat  Knockabout Comics - Fifty Freakin' Years of the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers Lion Forge - Lighter Than My Shadow, Taproot, and Generations NBM - Pride of the Decent Man Oni Press - Made Men #1 SelfMadeHero - Nick Cave: Mercy on Me Seven Stories Press - At War with War Titan Comics - Hammer Comics: Captain Kronos #1 and The Beautiful Death #1 TwoMorrows Publishing - Groovy: When Flower Power Bloomed in Pop Culture VIZ Media - Death Note: All-in-One Edition, Sweet Blue Flowers Vol. 1, and Goodnight Punpun Vol. 7 Rizzoli - Chris Ware: Monograph

It's the first week of the month, so that must mean that it's time once again for Andy and Derek to check out the latest Previews catalog. As they go through the July solicitations, they highlight a variety of upcoming titles from publishers such as:

  • Dark Horse Comics - Legacy: An Off-Color Novella for You to Color and Best Wishes
  • DC/Vertigo - House of Secrets: The Bronze Age Omnibus and Sebastian O/The Mystery Play Deluxe Edition
  • IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Elenora Mandragora: Daughter of Merlin, Alex Toth's The Case of the Curious Classic Artist's Edition Portfolio, Star Hawks Vol. 2, The Man from the Great North, Archie: A Celebration of America's Favorite Teenagers, The Limbo Lounge, I Am a Number, and Super Tokyoland
  • Image Comics - Angelic #1, Glitterbomb: The Fame Game #1, Rat Queens Special: Orc Dave #1, The Realm #1, and Son of Shaolin
  • Aardvark-Vanaheim - Aardvark Comics #1
  • AC Comics - The Charlton Arrow #1
  • AdHouse - Pope Hats #5
  • Aftershock Comics - Dark Ark #1 and Fu Jitsu #1
  • Alterna Comics - Mr. Crypt #1
  • Black Mask Studios - Black, Vol. 1
  • Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - What Is a Glacier?
  • BOOM! Studios - Lazaretto #1, Bolivar, and Bad Mask
  • Conundrum Press - Dreams in Thin Air, Duran Duran, Imelda Marcos, and Me, and Morton: A Cross-Country Rail Journey
  • Dynamite Entertainment - John Wick #1 and James Bond: Casino Royale
  • Dial Books - All's Faire in Middle School
  • Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #21, The Poppies of Iraq, and Present
  • Fantagraphics Books - Now #1, Peppy in the Wild West, Fred the Clown In..."The Iron Duchess", Beirut Won't Cry
  • Firefly Books - Escape from Syria and Flight of the Grizzly
  • First Second - Castle in the Stars: The Space Race of 1969, The Hunting Accident, Mighty Jack and the Goblin King, and Spinning
  • Gallery 13 - Park Bench
  • Humanoids - Halloween Tales and The Retreat 
  • Knockabout Comics - Fifty Freakin' Years of the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers
  • Lion Forge - Lighter Than My Shadow, Taproot, and Generations
  • NBM - Pride of the Decent Man
  • Oni Press - Made Men #1
  • SelfMadeHero - Nick Cave: Mercy on Me
  • Seven Stories Press - At War with War
  • Titan Comics - Hammer Comics: Captain Kronos #1 and The Beautiful Death #1
  • TwoMorrows Publishing - Groovy: When Flower Power Bloomed in Pop Culture
  • VIZ Media - Death Note: All-in-One Edition, Sweet Blue Flowers Vol. 1, and Goodnight Punpun Vol. 7
  • Rizzoli - Chris Ware: Monograph
]]> 7852 yes Manga: Reviews of My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness and Golden Kamuy http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-my-lesbian-experience-with-loneliness-and-golden-kamuy Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Catching up 00:05:57 - My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness 00:50:05 - Golden Kamuy, Vol. 1 01:22:31 - Wrap up 01:23:25 - Contact us   It's the end of the month, so that must mean that it's time for Shea and Derek to discuss their latest manga recommendations. They begin with Kabi Nagata's My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness (Seven Seas Entertainment), a deeply personal autobiographical work whose title is perhaps more provocative than it is revealing. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time talking about the underlying impulses embedded in the text and how sexual preferences take a backseat to the deeper longings that Nagata reveals. This is a manga all about self-discovery, a diary-like account of the author's attempts to understand herself within the context of her culture and her yearning for what she calls “next level communication.” As Derek and Shea highlight, this is in some ways an example yuri manga, but at the same time such a designation doesn't do the text justice. Next, they look at the first volume of Satoru Noda's Golden Kamuy (VIZ Media). This is a more realistically based narrative that takes place in the wake of the Russo-Japanese War. The protagonist, Saichi Sugimoto, gained a reputation during the war as an almost invulnerable hero, but he lives his post-war years unsuccessfully prospecting for gold in the Hokkaido region. There he befriends a young Ainu woman, Asirpa, and together they begin hunting down a legendary hidden treasure with a violent pedigree. Both Shea and Derek appreciate the story's realism and historical context -- in many ways, this is a didactic text -- but they're not yet sure of how Noda will handle the indigenous Ainu culture. That being said, they're both definitely on board for future volumes. Fri, 30 Jun 2017 13:59:46 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Getting Real Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Catching up 00:05:57 - My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness 00:50:05 - Golden Kamuy, Vol. 1 01:22:31 - Wrap up 01:23:25 - Contact us   It's the end of the month, so that must mean that it's time for Shea and Derek to discuss their latest manga recommendations. They begin with Kabi Nagata's My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness (Seven Seas Entertainment), a deeply personal autobiographical work whose title is perhaps more provocative than it is revealing. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time talking about the underlying impulses embedded in the text and how sexual preferences take a backseat to the deeper longings that Nagata reveals. This is a manga all about self-discovery, a diary-like account of the author's attempts to understand herself within the context of her culture and her yearning for what she calls “next level communication.” As Derek and Shea highlight, this is in some ways an example yuri manga, but at the same time such a designation doesn't do the text justice. Next, they look at the first volume of Satoru Noda's Golden Kamuy (VIZ Media). This is a more realistically based narrative that takes place in the wake of the Russo-Japanese War. The protagonist, Saichi Sugimoto, gained a reputation during the war as an almost invulnerable hero, but he lives his post-war years unsuccessfully prospecting for gold in the Hokkaido region. There he befriends a young Ainu woman, Asirpa, and together they begin hunting down a legendary hidden treasure with a violent pedigree. Both Shea and Derek appreciate the story's realism and historical context -- in many ways, this is a didactic text -- but they're not yet sure of how Noda will handle the indigenous Ainu culture. That being said, they're both definitely on board for future volumes. Time Codes:

 

It's the end of the month, so that must mean that it's time for Shea and Derek to discuss their latest manga recommendations. They begin with Kabi Nagata's My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness (Seven Seas Entertainment), a deeply personal autobiographical work whose title is perhaps more provocative than it is revealing. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time talking about the underlying impulses embedded in the text and how sexual preferences take a backseat to the deeper longings that Nagata reveals. This is a manga all about self-discovery, a diary-like account of the author's attempts to understand herself within the context of her culture and her yearning for what she calls “next level communication.” As Derek and Shea highlight, this is in some ways an example yuri manga, but at the same time such a designation doesn't do the text justice.

Next, they look at the first volume of Satoru Noda's Golden Kamuy (VIZ Media). This is a more realistically based narrative that takes place in the wake of the Russo-Japanese War. The protagonist, Saichi Sugimoto, gained a reputation during the war as an almost invulnerable hero, but he lives his post-war years unsuccessfully prospecting for gold in the Hokkaido region. There he befriends a young Ainu woman, Asirpa, and together they begin hunting down a legendary hidden treasure with a violent pedigree. Both Shea and Derek appreciate the story's realism and historical context -- in many ways, this is a didactic text -- but they're not yet sure of how Noda will handle the indigenous Ainu culture. That being said, they're both definitely on board for future volumes.

]]> 5215 yes Episode 246: Reviews of Greek Diary, Paper Pencil Life, and KatZine http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-246-reviews-of-greek-diary-paper-pencil-lifeand-katzine Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Listener messages! 00:08:24 - HeroesCon, podcast fans, and self-published comics 00:14:58 - Greek Diary 00:37:36 - Paper Pencil Life 00:59:42 - KatZine 01:16:04 - Wrap up 01:17:17 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek do something they've never done before on the podcast: discuss only self-published titles. They got the idea for this special episode from one of the creators they look at, Glynnis Fawkes, when she was kind enough to send them copies of her latest book. So after hearing from her, Derek and Andy thought, "Why not devote an entire episode to creators like Glynnis?" Appropriately enough, they begin with Fawkes's book, Greek Diary, which won the 2017 MoCCAfest Award of Excellence. This is an account of the author's experiences in Greece during June and early July 2016. Fawkes devoted the first part of her diary to her work as an archeological illustrator, but the majority of the text covers the time that her family joined her for vacation after her professional obligations. As the Two Guys reveal, this part of Greek Diary is an entertaining mix between a travelogue and a journal of familial "challenges." (If you've ever traveled with small children, you certainly know what that means.) Next, they discuss the first four issues of Summer Pierre's Pencil Paper Life. This is Pierre's ongoing collection of diary comics that she began keeping back in 2013. Each issue is a series of the creator's occasional observations, reflections, and personal accounts that mostly follow a standard nine-panel grid. These comics explore her life as an artist, memories linked to pop-cultural signposts, her efforts in negotiating varying social terrains, and especially her joys -- as well as her struggles -- in being a mother. Finally, the guys wrap up with Katriona Chapman's KatZine. At the time of the recording there are so far seven issues that have been released, and this title stands out from Fawkes's and Pierre's in several ways. First, KatZine is more of a single-author anthology, with there being a variety of entries, including several regular features (including "Sergio Talk!," "Local Business," "Featured Plant," and "Fears and Loves"). It's also different in that the comic is a mix between straight-out comics and prose-heavy pieces. In other words, this is a zine in the more traditional sense. But KatZine also stands in contrast to Greek Diary and Paper Pencil Life in that it's not entirely autobiographically based. There are a few pieces collected among the seven issues that are clearly fictional in nature. What's more, in some of her more recent issues Chapman expresses her interests in melding life writing with fiction, an impulse that she is apparently carrying into her first graphic novel. Please help support these independent creators by visiting their websites and buying their comics: Glynnis Fawkes Summer Pierre Katriona Chapman Wed, 28 Jun 2017 18:40:22 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal DIY Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Listener messages! 00:08:24 - HeroesCon, podcast fans, and self-published comics 00:14:58 - Greek Diary 00:37:36 - Paper Pencil Life 00:59:42 - KatZine 01:16:04 - Wrap up 01:17:17 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek do something they've never done before on the podcast: discuss only self-published titles. They got the idea for this special episode from one of the creators they look at, Glynnis Fawkes, when she was kind enough to send them copies of her latest book. So after hearing from her, Derek and Andy thought, "Why not devote an entire episode to creators like Glynnis?" Appropriately enough, they begin with Fawkes's book, Greek Diary, which won the 2017 MoCCAfest Award of Excellence. This is an account of the author's experiences in Greece during June and early July 2016. Fawkes devoted the first part of her diary to her work as an archeological illustrator, but the majority of the text covers the time that her family joined her for vacation after her professional obligations. As the Two Guys reveal, this part of Greek Diary is an entertaining mix between a travelogue and a journal of familial "challenges." (If you've ever traveled with small children, you certainly know what that means.) Next, they discuss the first four issues of Summer Pierre's Pencil Paper Life. This is Pierre's ongoing collection of diary comics that she began keeping back in 2013. Each issue is a series of the creator's occasional observations, reflections, and personal accounts that mostly follow a standard nine-panel grid. These comics explore her life as an artist, memories linked to pop-cultural signposts, her efforts in negotiating varying social terrains, and especially her joys -- as well as her struggles -- in being a mother. Finally, the guys wrap up with Katriona Chapman's KatZine. At the time of the recording there are so far seven issues that have been released, and this title stands out from Fawkes's and Pierre's in several ways. First, KatZine is more of a single-author anthology, with there being a variety of entries, including several regular features (including "Sergio Talk!," "Local Business," "Featured Plant," and "Fears and Loves"). It's also different in that the comic is a mix between straight-out comics and prose-heavy pieces. In other words, this is a zine in the more traditional sense. But KatZine also stands in contrast to Greek Diary and Paper Pencil Life in that it's not entirely autobiographically based. There are a few pieces collected among the seven issues that are clearly fictional in nature. What's more, in some of her more recent issues Chapman expresses her interests in melding life writing with fiction, an impulse that she is apparently carrying into her first graphic novel. Please help support these independent creators by visiting their websites and buying their comics: Glynnis Fawkes Summer Pierre Katriona Chapman Time Codes:

  • 00:00:29 - Introduction
  • 00:02:36 - Listener messages!
  • 00:08:24 - HeroesCon, podcast fans, and self-published comics
  • 00:14:58 - Greek Diary
  • 00:37:36 - Paper Pencil Life
  • 00:59:42 - KatZine
  • 01:16:04 - Wrap up
  • 01:17:17 - Contact us

This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek do something they've never done before on the podcast: discuss only self-published titles. They got the idea for this special episode from one of the creators they look at, Glynnis Fawkes, when she was kind enough to send them copies of her latest book. So after hearing from her, Derek and Andy thought, "Why not devote an entire episode to creators like Glynnis?"

Appropriately enough, they begin with Fawkes's book, Greek Diary, which won the 2017 MoCCAfest Award of Excellence. This is an account of the author's experiences in Greece during June and early July 2016. Fawkes devoted the first part of her diary to her work as an archeological illustrator, but the majority of the text covers the time that her family joined her for vacation after her professional obligations. As the Two Guys reveal, this part of Greek Diary is an entertaining mix between a travelogue and a journal of familial "challenges." (If you've ever traveled with small children, you certainly know what that means.)

Next, they discuss the first four issues of Summer Pierre's Pencil Paper Life. This is Pierre's ongoing collection of diary comics that she began keeping back in 2013. Each issue is a series of the creator's occasional observations, reflections, and personal accounts that mostly follow a standard nine-panel grid. These comics explore her life as an artist, memories linked to pop-cultural signposts, her efforts in negotiating varying social terrains, and especially her joys -- as well as her struggles -- in being a mother.

Finally, the guys wrap up with Katriona Chapman's KatZine. At the time of the recording there are so far seven issues that have been released, and this title stands out from Fawkes's and Pierre's in several ways. First, KatZine is more of a single-author anthology, with there being a variety of entries, including several regular features (including "Sergio Talk!," "Local Business," "Featured Plant," and "Fears and Loves"). It's also different in that the comic is a mix between straight-out comics and prose-heavy pieces. In other words, this is a zine in the more traditional sense. But KatZine also stands in contrast to Greek Diary and Paper Pencil Life in that it's not entirely autobiographically based. There are a few pieces collected among the seven issues that are clearly fictional in nature. What's more, in some of her more recent issues Chapman expresses her interests in melding life writing with fiction, an impulse that she is apparently carrying into her first graphic novel.

Please help support these independent creators by visiting their websites and buying their comics:

]]> 4822 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-hope-larson-and-rebecca-mock Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:31 - Setup of interview 03:11 - Interview with Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock 54:00 - Wrap up 57:40- Contact us On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest the creators behind the Four Points books, Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock. The second (and perhaps final) work in the series, Knife's Edge, comes out this week from Farrar, Straus and Giroux, and your two highly credentialed cohosts talk with the creators about the new book and follow up to last year's Compass South. Over the course of their conversation Rebecca and Hope discuss the genesis of the project, their process for collaboration, the research that went into the two books, and the evolution of the various characters that populate their narrative. They even tease a little bit about their yet-unannounced new collaboration that's completely separate from the Four Points series. Mon, 26 Jun 2017 02:58:06 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sailing Takes Me Away… Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:31 - Setup of interview 03:11 - Interview with Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock 54:00 - Wrap up 57:40- Contact us On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest the creators behind the Four Points books, Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock. The second (and perhaps final) work in the series, Knife's Edge, comes out this week from Farrar, Straus and Giroux, and your two highly credentialed cohosts talk with the creators about the new book and follow up to last year's Compass South. Over the course of their conversation Rebecca and Hope discuss the genesis of the project, their process for collaboration, the research that went into the two books, and the evolution of the various characters that populate their narrative. They even tease a little bit about their yet-unannounced new collaboration that's completely separate from the Four Points series. Time Codes:

  • 00:25 - Introduction
  • 02:31 - Setup of interview
  • 03:11 - Interview with Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock
  • 54:00 - Wrap up
  • 57:40- Contact us

On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest the creators behind the Four Points books, Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock. The second (and perhaps final) work in the series, Knife's Edge, comes out this week from Farrar, Straus and Giroux, and your two highly credentialed cohosts talk with the creators about the new book and follow up to last year's Compass South. Over the course of their conversation Rebecca and Hope discuss the genesis of the project, their process for collaboration, the research that went into the two books, and the evolution of the various characters that populate their narrative. They even tease a little bit about their yet-unannounced new collaboration that's completely separate from the Four Points series.

]]> 3638 no Young Readers: The Eisner Award Nominations for Early Readers, Kids, and Teens http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-the-eisner-award-nominations-for-early-readers-kids-and-teens Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:57 - Context of the 2017 Eisner Awards 00:06:14 - Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) 00:57:02 - Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) 01:49:53 - Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) 02:52:17 - Wrap up 02:53:05 - Contact us This month, Gwen and Paul discuss the three Eisner Award categories that focus on comics for young readers. And this is a jam-packed, extra-long episode! As they work through each set of nominees, Paul and Gwen discuss the value of prizing in general and the challenges faced by the judges when they must cull such a small number of texts from a pool that is increasingly deep. Inevitably, they mention many other texts that felt were strong contenders for recognition, making this episode a great resource for any parent, child, teen, or teacher who is eager to learn about this year’s great comics. Eisner Awards Nominations 2017 Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World, by James Sturm (Toon) Burt’s Way Home, by John Martz (Koyama) The Creeps, Book 2: The Trolls Will Feast! by Chris Schweizer (Abrams) I’m Grumpy (My First Comics), by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm (Random House Books for Young Readers) Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea, by Ben Clanton (Tundra) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) The Drawing Lesson, by Mark Crilley (Watson-Guptill) Ghosts, by Raina Telgemeier (Scholastic) Hilda and the Stone Forest, by Luke Pearson (Flying Eye Books) Rikki, adapted by Norm Harper and Matthew Foltz-Gray (Karate Petshop) Science Comics: Dinosaurs, by MK Reed and Joe Flood (First Second) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) Bad Machinery, vol. 5: The Case of the Fire Inside, by John Allison (Oni) Batgirl, by Hope Larson and Rafael Albuquerque (DC) Jughead, by Chip Zdarsky, Ryan North, Erica Henderson, and Derek Charm (Archie) Monstress, by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image) Trish Trash: Roller Girl of Mars, by Jessica Abel (Papercutz/Super Genius) The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, by Ryan North and Erica Henderson (Marvel)   Fri, 23 Jun 2017 16:58:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Jam-Packed Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:57 - Context of the 2017 Eisner Awards 00:06:14 - Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) 00:57:02 - Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) 01:49:53 - Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) 02:52:17 - Wrap up 02:53:05 - Contact us This month, Gwen and Paul discuss the three Eisner Award categories that focus on comics for young readers. And this is a jam-packed, extra-long episode! As they work through each set of nominees, Paul and Gwen discuss the value of prizing in general and the challenges faced by the judges when they must cull such a small number of texts from a pool that is increasingly deep. Inevitably, they mention many other texts that felt were strong contenders for recognition, making this episode a great resource for any parent, child, teen, or teacher who is eager to learn about this year’s great comics. Eisner Awards Nominations 2017 Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World, by James Sturm (Toon) Burt’s Way Home, by John Martz (Koyama) The Creeps, Book 2: The Trolls Will Feast! by Chris Schweizer (Abrams) I’m Grumpy (My First Comics), by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm (Random House Books for Young Readers) Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea, by Ben Clanton (Tundra) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) The Drawing Lesson, by Mark Crilley (Watson-Guptill) Ghosts, by Raina Telgemeier (Scholastic) Hilda and the Stone Forest, by Luke Pearson (Flying Eye Books) Rikki, adapted by Norm Harper and Matthew Foltz-Gray (Karate Petshop) Science Comics: Dinosaurs, by MK Reed and Joe Flood (First Second) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) Bad Machinery, vol. 5: The Case of the Fire Inside, by John Allison (Oni) Batgirl, by Hope Larson and Rafael Albuquerque (DC) Jughead, by Chip Zdarsky, Ryan North, Erica Henderson, and Derek Charm (Archie) Monstress, by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image) Trish Trash: Roller Girl of Mars, by Jessica Abel (Papercutz/Super Genius) The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, by Ryan North and Erica Henderson (Marvel)   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:57 - Context of the 2017 Eisner Awards
  • 00:06:14 - Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8)
  • 00:57:02 - Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12)
  • 01:49:53 - Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17)
  • 02:52:17 - Wrap up
  • 02:53:05 - Contact us

This month, Gwen and Paul discuss the three Eisner Award categories that focus on comics for young readers. And this is a jam-packed, extra-long episode! As they work through each set of nominees, Paul and Gwen discuss the value of prizing in general and the challenges faced by the judges when they must cull such a small number of texts from a pool that is increasingly deep. Inevitably, they mention many other texts that felt were strong contenders for recognition, making this episode a great resource for any parent, child, teen, or teacher who is eager to learn about this year’s great comics.

Eisner Awards Nominations 2017 Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17)

 

]]> 10608 no Episode 245: Live at HeroesCon 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-245-live-at-heroescon-2017 Last weekend was HeroesCon, and as they have for the past few years, Andy and Derek are on the scene in Artists Alley reporting the event from the floor. On this episode, you'll hear the Two Guys sharing their varied experiences at the con. Among other topics they discuss the vendors they visited and the comics they were able to find, their attempts to interview creators at their tables, the two high-powered panels they moderated, the various artists they had signing their comics, the tone of this year's crowd, the uncertainty of their table location, and their Saturday night dinner with Gilbert Hernandez's family. And both Derek and Andy are most thankful for the various fans who stopped by their table to say "Hello" and tell them that they're avid listeners.  Much thanks to Daniel Yezbick for providing the pictures of the Two Guys in action! Wed, 21 Jun 2017 12:13:23 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal On the Scene Last weekend was HeroesCon, and as they have for the past few years, Andy and Derek are on the scene in Artists Alley reporting the event from the floor. On this episode, you'll hear the Two Guys sharing their varied experiences at the con. Among other topics they discuss the vendors they visited and the comics they were able to find, their attempts to interview creators at their tables, the two high-powered panels they moderated, the various artists they had signing their comics, the tone of this year's crowd, the uncertainty of their table location, and their Saturday night dinner with Gilbert Hernandez's family. And both Derek and Andy are most thankful for the various fans who stopped by their table to say "Hello" and tell them that they're avid listeners.  Much thanks to Daniel Yezbick for providing the pictures of the Two Guys in action!

Last weekend was HeroesCon, and as they have for the past few years, Andy and Derek are on the scene in Artists Alley reporting the event from the floor. On this episode, you'll hear the Two Guys sharing their varied experiences at the con. Among other topics they discuss the vendors they visited and the comics they were able to find, their attempts to interview creators at their tables, the two high-powered panels they moderated, the various artists they had signing their comics, the tone of this year's crowd, the uncertainty of their table location, and their Saturday night dinner with Gilbert Hernandez's family. And both Derek and Andy are most thankful for the various fans who stopped by their table to say "Hello" and tell them that they're avid listeners. 

Much thanks to Daniel Yezbick for providing the pictures of the Two Guys in action!

]]> 3287 no On Location: Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2017, Pt. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-heroescon-2017-pt-2 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup of episode 00:03:27 - Fabian Rangel, Jr. 00:10:23 - Charles Forsman 00:18:34 - Darren Neely 00:34:04 - Chris Sheridan 00:48:42 - Shawn Pryor 00:54:46 - Alison Sampson 01:04:04 - Wrap up 01:05:11 - Contact us In the second of two on-location interview episodes recorded at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek talks with Fabian Rangel, Jr. (author of Tarantula), Charles Forsman (Slasher), Chris Sheridan (Motorcycle Samurai), Shawn Pryor (Cash and Carrie), and Alison Sampson (Winnebago Graveyard), and Andy and Derek speak with Darren Neely (Chase Van Bolt). Fun stuff! Stay tuned over the next week for more HeroesCon episodes! Tue, 20 Jun 2017 13:35:57 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Heroes Talk Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:37 - Setup of episode 00:03:27 - Fabian Rangel, Jr. 00:10:23 - Charles Forsman 00:18:34 - Darren Neely 00:34:04 - Chris Sheridan 00:48:42 - Shawn Pryor 00:54:46 - Alison Sampson 01:04:04 - Wrap up 01:05:11 - Contact us In the second of two on-location interview episodes recorded at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek talks with Fabian Rangel, Jr. (author of Tarantula), Charles Forsman (Slasher), Chris Sheridan (Motorcycle Samurai), Shawn Pryor (Cash and Carrie), and Alison Sampson (Winnebago Graveyard), and Andy and Derek speak with Darren Neely (Chase Van Bolt). Fun stuff! Stay tuned over the next week for more HeroesCon episodes! Time Codes:

In the second of two on-location interview episodes recorded at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek talks with Fabian Rangel, Jr. (author of Tarantula), Charles Forsman (Slasher), Chris Sheridan (Motorcycle Samurai), Shawn Pryor (Cash and Carrie), and Alison Sampson (Winnebago Graveyard), and Andy and Derek speak with Darren Neely (Chase Van Bolt). Fun stuff!

Stay tuned over the next week for more HeroesCon episodes!

]]> 4090 no On Location: Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2017, Pt. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-heroescon-2017-pt-1 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:15 - Setup of episode 00:03:50 - Ben Sears 00:10:01 - Abby Howard 00:19:12 - Jody Leheup and Sebastian Girner 00:30:29 - Andy Hirsch 00:36:24 - Matthew David Smith and Jeremy Massie 00:44:53 - Tyler Chin-Tanner 00:51:44 - Sam Costello 01:02:11 - Thom Zahler 01:11:49 - Wrap up 01:12:46 - Contact us In the first of two on-location interview episodes recorded at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek talks with a variety of artists, writers, and editors. Some of these are creators with whom Derek was already familiar, some have even talked on the podcast before, and some are are new discoveries. In this show you'll hear brief discussions with Ben Sears (author of Volcano Trash), Abby Howard (The Last Halloween), Jody Leheup and Sebastian Girner (Shirtless Bear Fighter), Andy Hirsch (Science Comics: Dogs), Matthew David Smith and Jeremy Massie (Amazing Age), Tyler Chin-Tanner (Broken Frontier), Sam Costello (Split Lip Comics), and Thom Zahler (Time and Vine). Stay tuned over the next week for other episodes generated at this year's HeroesCon! Mon, 19 Jun 2017 16:07:43 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Heroes Talk Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:15 - Setup of episode 00:03:50 - Ben Sears 00:10:01 - Abby Howard 00:19:12 - Jody Leheup and Sebastian Girner 00:30:29 - Andy Hirsch 00:36:24 - Matthew David Smith and Jeremy Massie 00:44:53 - Tyler Chin-Tanner 00:51:44 - Sam Costello 01:02:11 - Thom Zahler 01:11:49 - Wrap up 01:12:46 - Contact us In the first of two on-location interview episodes recorded at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek talks with a variety of artists, writers, and editors. Some of these are creators with whom Derek was already familiar, some have even talked on the podcast before, and some are are new discoveries. In this show you'll hear brief discussions with Ben Sears (author of Volcano Trash), Abby Howard (The Last Halloween), Jody Leheup and Sebastian Girner (Shirtless Bear Fighter), Andy Hirsch (Science Comics: Dogs), Matthew David Smith and Jeremy Massie (Amazing Age), Tyler Chin-Tanner (Broken Frontier), Sam Costello (Split Lip Comics), and Thom Zahler (Time and Vine). Stay tuned over the next week for other episodes generated at this year's HeroesCon! Time Codes:

In the first of two on-location interview episodes recorded at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Derek talks with a variety of artists, writers, and editors. Some of these are creators with whom Derek was already familiar, some have even talked on the podcast before, and some are are new discoveries. In this show you'll hear brief discussions with Ben Sears (author of Volcano Trash), Abby Howard (The Last Halloween), Jody Leheup and Sebastian Girner (Shirtless Bear Fighter), Andy Hirsch (Science Comics: Dogs), Matthew David Smith and Jeremy Massie (Amazing Age), Tyler Chin-Tanner (Broken Frontier), Sam Costello (Split Lip Comics), and Thom Zahler (Time and Vine).

Stay tuned over the next week for other episodes generated at this year's HeroesCon!

]]> 4539 no Webcomics: Reviews of the 2017 Eisner Award Nominees http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-2017-eisner-award-nominees Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:55 - Webcomics news: The Library of Congress' Web Comics Web Archive 00:11:24 - Trying to make sense of the Eisner Awards' "Best Web Comic" and "Best Digital Comic" categories 00:30:37 - The Middle Age 00:44:30 - On Beauty 00:56:54 - Helm 01:08:27 - On a Sunbeam 01:32:41 - Wrap up 01:34:14 - Contact us For the June webcomics episode, Sean and Derek take a close look at the webcomics nominees for the 2017 Eisner Awards. Before they do that, though, they have to determine exactly which titles are actually webcomics and which are not. If this sounds strange, that's because this year the people behind the Eisner Awards have separated "Best Digital Comics" and "Best Webcomic" into two completely different categories -- which is a good thing -- but in doing so they have ill-defined the criteria to where there are digital comics mixed in the "Best Webcomic" category and webcomics in the "Best Digital Comic" category. In other words, there doesn't seem to be any clear distinctions between the two...which was the problem in previous years when webcomics and digital comics were unfortunately clumped into the same category. Sean and Derek discuss in detail the problems underlying this year's categorization, and they offer advice for next year's judges and hope that in the future there will be a much more precise understanding of what a webcomic actually is. After that, they begin discussing the real webcomics that are scattered between the "Best Webcomic" and "Best Digital Comic" categories. There are five in all, and in this episode they discuss Steve Conley's The Middle Age and Christina Tran's On Beauty (both nominated for "Best Webcomic"), as well as Jahanzeb Hasan and Mauricio Caballero's Helm and Tillie Walden's On a Sunbeam (inexplicably nominated under "Best Digital Comic"). Anne Szabla's Bird Boy was also nominated as a webcomic, but since the guys discussed that title on a previous webcomics episode, they spend their time talking about the other nominees. And as the guys reveal, there is a reason why these four titles are nominated for an Eisner Award this year. They're all well-written, keenly drawn, and ambitious in what each endeavors to accomplish. Both Sean and Derek wish this year's webcomics creators, despite the appropriateness of the categories for which they're nominated, the best of luck when the announcements are made at next month's SDCC! Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:45:06 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Definitionally Challenged Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:55 - Webcomics news: The Library of Congress' Web Comics Web Archive 00:11:24 - Trying to make sense of the Eisner Awards' "Best Web Comic" and "Best Digital Comic" categories 00:30:37 - The Middle Age 00:44:30 - On Beauty 00:56:54 - Helm 01:08:27 - On a Sunbeam 01:32:41 - Wrap up 01:34:14 - Contact us For the June webcomics episode, Sean and Derek take a close look at the webcomics nominees for the 2017 Eisner Awards. Before they do that, though, they have to determine exactly which titles are actually webcomics and which are not. If this sounds strange, that's because this year the people behind the Eisner Awards have separated "Best Digital Comics" and "Best Webcomic" into two completely different categories -- which is a good thing -- but in doing so they have ill-defined the criteria to where there are digital comics mixed in the "Best Webcomic" category and webcomics in the "Best Digital Comic" category. In other words, there doesn't seem to be any clear distinctions between the two...which was the problem in previous years when webcomics and digital comics were unfortunately clumped into the same category. Sean and Derek discuss in detail the problems underlying this year's categorization, and they offer advice for next year's judges and hope that in the future there will be a much more precise understanding of what a webcomic actually is. After that, they begin discussing the real webcomics that are scattered between the "Best Webcomic" and "Best Digital Comic" categories. There are five in all, and in this episode they discuss Steve Conley's The Middle Age and Christina Tran's On Beauty (both nominated for "Best Webcomic"), as well as Jahanzeb Hasan and Mauricio Caballero's Helm and Tillie Walden's On a Sunbeam (inexplicably nominated under "Best Digital Comic"). Anne Szabla's Bird Boy was also nominated as a webcomic, but since the guys discussed that title on a previous webcomics episode, they spend their time talking about the other nominees. And as the guys reveal, there is a reason why these four titles are nominated for an Eisner Award this year. They're all well-written, keenly drawn, and ambitious in what each endeavors to accomplish. Both Sean and Derek wish this year's webcomics creators, despite the appropriateness of the categories for which they're nominated, the best of luck when the announcements are made at next month's SDCC! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:55 - Webcomics news: The Library of Congress' Web Comics Web Archive
  • 00:11:24 - Trying to make sense of the Eisner Awards' "Best Web Comic" and "Best Digital Comic" categories
  • 00:30:37 - The Middle Age
  • 00:44:30 - On Beauty
  • 00:56:54 - Helm
  • 01:08:27 - On a Sunbeam
  • 01:32:41 - Wrap up
  • 01:34:14 - Contact us

For the June webcomics episode, Sean and Derek take a close look at the webcomics nominees for the 2017 Eisner Awards. Before they do that, though, they have to determine exactly which titles are actually webcomics and which are not. If this sounds strange, that's because this year the people behind the Eisner Awards have separated "Best Digital Comics" and "Best Webcomic" into two completely different categories -- which is a good thing -- but in doing so they have ill-defined the criteria to where there are digital comics mixed in the "Best Webcomic" category and webcomics in the "Best Digital Comic" category. In other words, there doesn't seem to be any clear distinctions between the two...which was the problem in previous years when webcomics and digital comics were unfortunately clumped into the same category. Sean and Derek discuss in detail the problems underlying this year's categorization, and they offer advice for next year's judges and hope that in the future there will be a much more precise understanding of what a webcomic actually is.

After that, they begin discussing the real webcomics that are scattered between the "Best Webcomic" and "Best Digital Comic" categories. There are five in all, and in this episode they discuss Steve Conley's The Middle Age and Christina Tran's On Beauty (both nominated for "Best Webcomic"), as well as Jahanzeb Hasan and Mauricio Caballero's Helm and Tillie Walden's On a Sunbeam (inexplicably nominated under "Best Digital Comic"). Anne Szabla's Bird Boy was also nominated as a webcomic, but since the guys discussed that title on a previous webcomics episode, they spend their time talking about the other nominees. And as the guys reveal, there is a reason why these four titles are nominated for an Eisner Award this year. They're all well-written, keenly drawn, and ambitious in what each endeavors to accomplish. Both Sean and Derek wish this year's webcomics creators, despite the appropriateness of the categories for which they're nominated, the best of luck when the announcements are made at next month's SDCC!

]]> 5857 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Moby Dick and The Interview http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-moby-dick-and-the-interview Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Catching up 00:05:04 - Moby Dick 00:48:50 - The Interview 01:18:18 - Wrap up 01:18:58 - Contact us This month on the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss two black-and-white narratives, one an adaptation of a classic text and another an offbeat tale of aliens and relationships. They begin with Christophe Chabouté's rendering of Herman Melville's Moby Dick (note the lack of hyphen in the title), released earlier this year from Dark Horse Books. After mentioning many of the earlier comics adaptations of the great American novel -- and there are a lot -- they plunge into Chabouté's handling, highlighting some of the differences from the earlier versions. Both cohosts come from two very different perspectives in their analyses, since Derek is very familiar with the original novel and Edward has not yet read it. As such, their approaches are varied and multifaceted. Next, they turn to the latest translation of Manuele Fior, The Interview (Fantagraphics). This is a markedly different kind of story from 5,000 km Per Second, a book that Gwen and Derek reviewed last year. As Edward points out, the draw of The Interview isn't so much the story, but its tone or the affect generated by the text. This is a tale about relationships, and Fior's art deftly expresses the subtitles and complications that underlie all of our interactions. You may come away from this book with a feeling of uncertainly and irresolution, but that seems to be a part of Fior's project. Thu, 15 Jun 2017 13:36:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Pasteboard Masks Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Catching up 00:05:04 - Moby Dick 00:48:50 - The Interview 01:18:18 - Wrap up 01:18:58 - Contact us This month on the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss two black-and-white narratives, one an adaptation of a classic text and another an offbeat tale of aliens and relationships. They begin with Christophe Chabouté's rendering of Herman Melville's Moby Dick (note the lack of hyphen in the title), released earlier this year from Dark Horse Books. After mentioning many of the earlier comics adaptations of the great American novel -- and there are a lot -- they plunge into Chabouté's handling, highlighting some of the differences from the earlier versions. Both cohosts come from two very different perspectives in their analyses, since Derek is very familiar with the original novel and Edward has not yet read it. As such, their approaches are varied and multifaceted. Next, they turn to the latest translation of Manuele Fior, The Interview (Fantagraphics). This is a markedly different kind of story from 5,000 km Per Second, a book that Gwen and Derek reviewed last year. As Edward points out, the draw of The Interview isn't so much the story, but its tone or the affect generated by the text. This is a tale about relationships, and Fior's art deftly expresses the subtitles and complications that underlie all of our interactions. You may come away from this book with a feeling of uncertainly and irresolution, but that seems to be a part of Fior's project. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:36 - Catching up
  • 00:05:04 - Moby Dick
  • 00:48:50 - The Interview
  • 01:18:18 - Wrap up
  • 01:18:58 - Contact us

This month on the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss two black-and-white narratives, one an adaptation of a classic text and another an offbeat tale of aliens and relationships. They begin with Christophe Chabouté's rendering of Herman Melville's Moby Dick (note the lack of hyphen in the title), released earlier this year from Dark Horse Books. After mentioning many of the earlier comics adaptations of the great American novel -- and there are a lot -- they plunge into Chabouté's handling, highlighting some of the differences from the earlier versions. Both cohosts come from two very different perspectives in their analyses, since Derek is very familiar with the original novel and Edward has not yet read it. As such, their approaches are varied and multifaceted.

Next, they turn to the latest translation of Manuele Fior, The Interview (Fantagraphics). This is a markedly different kind of story from 5,000 km Per Second, a book that Gwen and Derek reviewed last year. As Edward points out, the draw of The Interview isn't so much the story, but its tone or the affect generated by the text. This is a tale about relationships, and Fior's art deftly expresses the subtitles and complications that underlie all of our interactions. You may come away from this book with a feeling of uncertainly and irresolution, but that seems to be a part of Fior's project.

]]> 4911 no Episode 244: Reviews of Nothing Lasts Forever, What Is a Glacier?,and Revenger and the Fog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-244-reviews-of-nothing-lasts-forever-what-is-a-glacierand-revenger-and-the-fog Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Our table at HeroesCon! 00:04:42 - Nothing Lasts Forever 00:30:37 - What Is a Glacier? 00:43:50 - Revenger and the Fog 01:04:30 - Wrap up 01:05:37 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs review three recent releases, two of which are autobiographical in nature. They begin with Sina Grace's Nothing Lasts Forever (Image Comics). This follows a couple of other autobiographical works from Grace including Not My Bag (2012) and Self-Obsessed (2015), but this latest work has a looser feel to it. Written in diary form when the author was suffering from a rare esophageal condition, the book reveals Grace's struggles with his health, his romantic/sexual relationships, and his art. Indeed, as both Andy and Derek point out, it's his emphasis on the latter, along with the pencil art, that makes this such an intimate text. Next, the guys turn to What Is a Glacier?, a short autobiographical piece from Sophie Yanow (Retrofit/Big Planet Comics). In this work, the author uses a trip to Iceland, and a visitation to a glacier, to explore the nature of life changes, feelings of uncertainty, and grief over loss. In terms of the latter, Yanow deftly associates the end of a relationship with our treatment of the environment, contextualizing climate change in dire, yet not completely hopeless, terms. After that Derek and Andy look at a completely different kind of comic. Charles Forsman's Revenger and the Fog (Bergen Street Press) is the follow-up (and prequel) to his first Revenger volume, Children of the Damned. Originally appearing as four-issue miniseries, and including a one-shot, Revenger and the Fog is a 1970s-/1980s-inspired action narrative of a vigilante, Reggie (AKA, Revenger), enacting retribution against the victimized. In this case, the victims are other members of her team, The Fog, specifically her lover Jenny (AKA, Dynarat). There's a lot of extreme violence in this story, along with a premise that is sure to gross you out. But as the guys point out, Forsman's over-the-top handling of his subject matter adds a touch of humor that helps to mitigate the discomfort. Wed, 14 Jun 2017 13:42:45 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Killer Butts Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Our table at HeroesCon! 00:04:42 - Nothing Lasts Forever 00:30:37 - What Is a Glacier? 00:43:50 - Revenger and the Fog 01:04:30 - Wrap up 01:05:37 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs review three recent releases, two of which are autobiographical in nature. They begin with Sina Grace's Nothing Lasts Forever (Image Comics). This follows a couple of other autobiographical works from Grace including Not My Bag (2012) and Self-Obsessed (2015), but this latest work has a looser feel to it. Written in diary form when the author was suffering from a rare esophageal condition, the book reveals Grace's struggles with his health, his romantic/sexual relationships, and his art. Indeed, as both Andy and Derek point out, it's his emphasis on the latter, along with the pencil art, that makes this such an intimate text. Next, the guys turn to What Is a Glacier?, a short autobiographical piece from Sophie Yanow (Retrofit/Big Planet Comics). In this work, the author uses a trip to Iceland, and a visitation to a glacier, to explore the nature of life changes, feelings of uncertainty, and grief over loss. In terms of the latter, Yanow deftly associates the end of a relationship with our treatment of the environment, contextualizing climate change in dire, yet not completely hopeless, terms. After that Derek and Andy look at a completely different kind of comic. Charles Forsman's Revenger and the Fog (Bergen Street Press) is the follow-up (and prequel) to his first Revenger volume, Children of the Damned. Originally appearing as four-issue miniseries, and including a one-shot, Revenger and the Fog is a 1970s-/1980s-inspired action narrative of a vigilante, Reggie (AKA, Revenger), enacting retribution against the victimized. In this case, the victims are other members of her team, The Fog, specifically her lover Jenny (AKA, Dynarat). There's a lot of extreme violence in this story, along with a premise that is sure to gross you out. But as the guys point out, Forsman's over-the-top handling of his subject matter adds a touch of humor that helps to mitigate the discomfort. Time Codes:

This week the Two Guys with PhDs review three recent releases, two of which are autobiographical in nature. They begin with Sina Grace's Nothing Lasts Forever (Image Comics). This follows a couple of other autobiographical works from Grace including Not My Bag (2012) and Self-Obsessed (2015), but this latest work has a looser feel to it. Written in diary form when the author was suffering from a rare esophageal condition, the book reveals Grace's struggles with his health, his romantic/sexual relationships, and his art. Indeed, as both Andy and Derek point out, it's his emphasis on the latter, along with the pencil art, that makes this such an intimate text.

Next, the guys turn to What Is a Glacier?, a short autobiographical piece from Sophie Yanow (Retrofit/Big Planet Comics). In this work, the author uses a trip to Iceland, and a visitation to a glacier, to explore the nature of life changes, feelings of uncertainty, and grief over loss. In terms of the latter, Yanow deftly associates the end of a relationship with our treatment of the environment, contextualizing climate change in dire, yet not completely hopeless, terms.

After that Derek and Andy look at a completely different kind of comic. Charles Forsman's Revenger and the Fog (Bergen Street Press) is the follow-up (and prequel) to his first Revenger volume, Children of the Damned. Originally appearing as four-issue miniseries, and including a one-shot, Revenger and the Fog is a 1970s-/1980s-inspired action narrative of a vigilante, Reggie (AKA, Revenger), enacting retribution against the victimized. In this case, the victims are other members of her team, The Fog, specifically her lover Jenny (AKA, Dynarat). There's a lot of extreme violence in this story, along with a premise that is sure to gross you out. But as the guys point out, Forsman's over-the-top handling of his subject matter adds a touch of humor that helps to mitigate the discomfort.

]]> 4122 yes Episode 243: The June Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-243-the-june-previews-catalog The Two Guys with PhDs, AKA "Ben" and "Jason," are back with another Previews episode. And for the month of June, there's a lot that Andy and Derek want to highlight. Among the many upcoming titles they discuss are: Dark Horse Comics - Hellboy in Hell: Library Edition, Mr. Higgins Comes Home, Michael Chabon's The Escapists, and Rashomon: A Commissioner Heigo Kobayashi Case DC/Vertigo - Future Quest Showcase #1 and the various Jack Kirby centennial #1 issues IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Michael Recycle's Environmental Adventures, Roots, and Bottled Image Comics - Redlands #1, Annual, Elsewhere #1, Savage Town, and Spy Seal #1 Aardvark-Vanaheim - Batvark #1 AdHouse - Screwed Up AH Comics - Moonshot: The Indigenous Comics Collection, Vol. 2 Amazing Ink/Slave Labor Graphics - Josephine Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Iceland BOOM! Studios - Mech Cadet Yu #1 Candlewick Press - Poe: Stories and Poems Darby Pop Publishing - Things You Shouldn't Remember Dynamite Entertainment - Sheena #0, The Shadow #1, James Bond: Moneypenny, and Atari Classics: Swordquest Devil's Due/First Comics - Lark's Killer #1 Dover Publications - Border Worlds Drawn and Quarterly - The Customer Is Always Wrong Fantagraphics Books - Love and Rockets #3, Otherworld Barbara Vol. 2, Johnny Appleseed, All Time Comics: Blind Justice #2, The Bloody Cardinal, and Education Fanfare/Ponent Mon - Venice First Second - Science Comics: Plagues Humanoids - Gregory and the Gargoyles Kodansha Comics - Love and Lies, Vol. 1 Lion Forge - Ghost Money #1, Incidentals #1, and Water Memory Mariner Books - Fetch: How a Bad Dog Brought Me Home NBM - Sartre Microcosm Publishing - Henry and Glenn Adult Coloring Book Nobrow Press - A Castle in England and Pantheon: The True Story of the Egyptian Deities Oni Press - Dead of Winter #1 and the latest Square One editions Papercutz - Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars, Vol. 2 Titan Comics - Anno Dracula Ten Speed Press - Alexander Hamilton: The Graphic History of an American Founding Father Uncivilized Books - The Story of Jezebel University Press of Mississippi - Comics, Trauma, and the New Art of War, Comics Art in China, and Jim Shooter: Conversations Wed, 07 Jun 2017 14:54:05 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Ben Affleck and Jason Lee The Two Guys with PhDs, AKA "Ben" and "Jason," are back with another Previews episode. And for the month of June, there's a lot that Andy and Derek want to highlight. Among the many upcoming titles they discuss are: Dark Horse Comics - Hellboy in Hell: Library Edition, Mr. Higgins Comes Home, Michael Chabon's The Escapists, and Rashomon: A Commissioner Heigo Kobayashi Case DC/Vertigo - Future Quest Showcase #1 and the various Jack Kirby centennial #1 issues IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Michael Recycle's Environmental Adventures, Roots, and Bottled Image Comics - Redlands #1, Annual, Elsewhere #1, Savage Town, and Spy Seal #1 Aardvark-Vanaheim - Batvark #1 AdHouse - Screwed Up AH Comics - Moonshot: The Indigenous Comics Collection, Vol. 2 Amazing Ink/Slave Labor Graphics - Josephine Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Iceland BOOM! Studios - Mech Cadet Yu #1 Candlewick Press - Poe: Stories and Poems Darby Pop Publishing - Things You Shouldn't Remember Dynamite Entertainment - Sheena #0, The Shadow #1, James Bond: Moneypenny, and Atari Classics: Swordquest Devil's Due/First Comics - Lark's Killer #1 Dover Publications - Border Worlds Drawn and Quarterly - The Customer Is Always Wrong Fantagraphics Books - Love and Rockets #3, Otherworld Barbara Vol. 2, Johnny Appleseed, All Time Comics: Blind Justice #2, The Bloody Cardinal, and Education Fanfare/Ponent Mon - Venice First Second - Science Comics: Plagues Humanoids - Gregory and the Gargoyles Kodansha Comics - Love and Lies, Vol. 1 Lion Forge - Ghost Money #1, Incidentals #1, and Water Memory Mariner Books - Fetch: How a Bad Dog Brought Me Home NBM - Sartre Microcosm Publishing - Henry and Glenn Adult Coloring Book Nobrow Press - A Castle in England and Pantheon: The True Story of the Egyptian Deities Oni Press - Dead of Winter #1 and the latest Square One editions Papercutz - Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars, Vol. 2 Titan Comics - Anno Dracula Ten Speed Press - Alexander Hamilton: The Graphic History of an American Founding Father Uncivilized Books - The Story of Jezebel University Press of Mississippi - Comics, Trauma, and the New Art of War, Comics Art in China, and Jim Shooter: Conversations

The Two Guys with PhDs, AKA "Ben" and "Jason," are back with another Previews episode. And for the month of June, there's a lot that Andy and Derek want to highlight. Among the many upcoming titles they discuss are:

]]> 6754 no Manga: Reviews of Scumbag Loser and Sweetness and Lightning http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-scumbag-loser-and-sweetness-and-lightning Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:21 - Listener mail! 00:04:28 - Comments on the 2017 Eisner Award nominations 00:09:26 - Scumbag Loser 00:52:10 - Sweetness and Lightning 01:21:25 - Wrap up 01:22:14 - Contact us For the month of May, Shea and Derek discuss two works of manga that, while not necessarily diametrically opposed, are tonally opposite from one another. The first title is Mikoto Yamaguti's Scumbag Loser (Yen Press). What begins as a story about a teenage outsider with a unique smelling ability quickly turns into a horror story involving mysterious non-human forces. As the guys discuss, there are few characters in this book worthy of sympathy, but it is this lack of empathic closeness that makes this an affecting narrative. However, the guys aren't without their reservations, as Shea points out in his take on Yamaguti's patriarchal approach to his subject matter. Derek agrees, but he also sees the text's larger themes -- e.g., the unrealistic demands on youth conformity -- saving it from a kind of morbid frivolity. Next, the guys turn to a series from Kodansha Comics, Gido Amagakure's Sweetness and Lightning. The English translations became available beginning July of last year, and as of the time of this podcast recording, Kodansha has released five volumes. (Volume 6 is due out in early June.) This is a first for The Comics Alternative, a discussion of cooking manga. It's the story of Kouhei Inuzuka, a recently widowed father, and his daughter Tsumugi. He is unable to cook adequately for his family, and eventually he becomes close with one of his students, Kotori, who helps him become proficient in the kitchen. The series is a collection of episodes, each involving a dilemma where food preparation, complete with useful menus, helps to alleviate the problem. At the same time, cooking brings everyone closer together...even hinting at complicating affections. This is a nice read and, as Shea suggests, one to take out with you on a pleasant spring day.   Tue, 30 May 2017 15:10:34 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sweet and Sour Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:21 - Listener mail! 00:04:28 - Comments on the 2017 Eisner Award nominations 00:09:26 - Scumbag Loser 00:52:10 - Sweetness and Lightning 01:21:25 - Wrap up 01:22:14 - Contact us For the month of May, Shea and Derek discuss two works of manga that, while not necessarily diametrically opposed, are tonally opposite from one another. The first title is Mikoto Yamaguti's Scumbag Loser (Yen Press). What begins as a story about a teenage outsider with a unique smelling ability quickly turns into a horror story involving mysterious non-human forces. As the guys discuss, there are few characters in this book worthy of sympathy, but it is this lack of empathic closeness that makes this an affecting narrative. However, the guys aren't without their reservations, as Shea points out in his take on Yamaguti's patriarchal approach to his subject matter. Derek agrees, but he also sees the text's larger themes -- e.g., the unrealistic demands on youth conformity -- saving it from a kind of morbid frivolity. Next, the guys turn to a series from Kodansha Comics, Gido Amagakure's Sweetness and Lightning. The English translations became available beginning July of last year, and as of the time of this podcast recording, Kodansha has released five volumes. (Volume 6 is due out in early June.) This is a first for The Comics Alternative, a discussion of cooking manga. It's the story of Kouhei Inuzuka, a recently widowed father, and his daughter Tsumugi. He is unable to cook adequately for his family, and eventually he becomes close with one of his students, Kotori, who helps him become proficient in the kitchen. The series is a collection of episodes, each involving a dilemma where food preparation, complete with useful menus, helps to alleviate the problem. At the same time, cooking brings everyone closer together...even hinting at complicating affections. This is a nice read and, as Shea suggests, one to take out with you on a pleasant spring day.   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:21 - Listener mail!
  • 00:04:28 - Comments on the 2017 Eisner Award nominations
  • 00:09:26 - Scumbag Loser
  • 00:52:10 - Sweetness and Lightning
  • 01:21:25 - Wrap up
  • 01:22:14 - Contact us

For the month of May, Shea and Derek discuss two works of manga that, while not necessarily diametrically opposed, are tonally opposite from one another. The first title is Mikoto Yamaguti's Scumbag Loser (Yen Press). What begins as a story about a teenage outsider with a unique smelling ability quickly turns into a horror story involving mysterious non-human forces. As the guys discuss, there are few characters in this book worthy of sympathy, but it is this lack of empathic closeness that makes this an affecting narrative. However, the guys aren't without their reservations, as Shea points out in his take on Yamaguti's patriarchal approach to his subject matter. Derek agrees, but he also sees the text's larger themes -- e.g., the unrealistic demands on youth conformity -- saving it from a kind of morbid frivolity.

Next, the guys turn to a series from Kodansha Comics, Gido Amagakure's Sweetness and Lightning. The English translations became available beginning July of last year, and as of the time of this podcast recording, Kodansha has released five volumes. (Volume 6 is due out in early June.) This is a first for The Comics Alternative, a discussion of cooking manga. It's the story of Kouhei Inuzuka, a recently widowed father, and his daughter Tsumugi. He is unable to cook adequately for his family, and eventually he becomes close with one of his students, Kotori, who helps him become proficient in the kitchen. The series is a collection of episodes, each involving a dilemma where food preparation, complete with useful menus, helps to alleviate the problem. At the same time, cooking brings everyone closer together...even hinting at complicating affections. This is a nice read and, as Shea suggests, one to take out with you on a pleasant spring day.

 

]]> 5120 yes Young Readers: Reviews of Volcano Trash and Real Friends http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-volcano-trash-and-real-friends Time Codes: 01:22 - Introduction 03:19 - Setup of the episode 04:00 - Volcano Trash 23:10 - Real Friends 48:57 – Wrap up 50:00 – Contact us For the May Young Readers show, Paul and Gwen discuss two highly anticipated graphic novels: Ben Sears’s Volcano Trash (Koyama Press) and Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends (First Second). While one text is an action adventure science fiction fantasy and the other is a memoir, both books touch upon the importance that relationships play in young people’s lives. To being the show, Paul introduces Volcano Trash, the sequel to Ben Sears’s acclaimed 2016 graphic novel Night Air, the first in a series that takes place in what Sears terms “the Double+” universe. Both texts feature the exploits of a young man called Plus Man, his faithful sidekick, the robot Hank, as they engage in capers and navigate a world in which adults very often have nefarious agendas. Paul explains that even though the majority of secondary characters in Volcano Trash are male, the series would be enjoyable for all readers. Gwen agrees and chimes in with her appreciation for Sears’s use of color and his ability to add suspense and “motion” to the comic through the use of a variety of stylistic techniques. Gwen and Paul conclude by discussing the way that Sears’s sense of humor adds a welcome levity to the hijinks. (You can also check out additional discussion of Volcano Trash on the recent Publisher Spotlight episode devoted to Koyama Press.) Next, the pair discuss Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends, a memoir of Hale’s grade school years that focuses on friendships won and lost. In addition to considering the features of Hale and Pham’s collaborative work, Gwen underscores the importance of the "Author’s Note," which allows Hale to look back over her childhood, explain her rationale for writing a memoir, and provide young readers with advice about navigating the complicated hierarchies that develop in grade school. Paul agrees and points to the inclusion of Hale’s grade school photographs as a way to highlight the fact that the story is both real and focused on Hale’s actual experiences. Both Gwen and Paul highly recommend this text as an excellent read for any young person, regardless of whether they identify more with Shannon and are struggling to find true friendships or whether they are popular and confident but might benefit from thinking about friendships from the perspective of other kids. Fri, 26 May 2017 14:01:43 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Friendships Time Codes: 01:22 - Introduction 03:19 - Setup of the episode 04:00 - Volcano Trash 23:10 - Real Friends 48:57 – Wrap up 50:00 – Contact us For the May Young Readers show, Paul and Gwen discuss two highly anticipated graphic novels: Ben Sears’s Volcano Trash (Koyama Press) and Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends (First Second). While one text is an action adventure science fiction fantasy and the other is a memoir, both books touch upon the importance that relationships play in young people’s lives. To being the show, Paul introduces Volcano Trash, the sequel to Ben Sears’s acclaimed 2016 graphic novel Night Air, the first in a series that takes place in what Sears terms “the Double+” universe. Both texts feature the exploits of a young man called Plus Man, his faithful sidekick, the robot Hank, as they engage in capers and navigate a world in which adults very often have nefarious agendas. Paul explains that even though the majority of secondary characters in Volcano Trash are male, the series would be enjoyable for all readers. Gwen agrees and chimes in with her appreciation for Sears’s use of color and his ability to add suspense and “motion” to the comic through the use of a variety of stylistic techniques. Gwen and Paul conclude by discussing the way that Sears’s sense of humor adds a welcome levity to the hijinks. (You can also check out additional discussion of Volcano Trash on the recent Publisher Spotlight episode devoted to Koyama Press.) Next, the pair discuss Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends, a memoir of Hale’s grade school years that focuses on friendships won and lost. In addition to considering the features of Hale and Pham’s collaborative work, Gwen underscores the importance of the "Author’s Note," which allows Hale to look back over her childhood, explain her rationale for writing a memoir, and provide young readers with advice about navigating the complicated hierarchies that develop in grade school. Paul agrees and points to the inclusion of Hale’s grade school photographs as a way to highlight the fact that the story is both real and focused on Hale’s actual experiences. Both Gwen and Paul highly recommend this text as an excellent read for any young person, regardless of whether they identify more with Shannon and are struggling to find true friendships or whether they are popular and confident but might benefit from thinking about friendships from the perspective of other kids. Time Codes:

  • 01:22 - Introduction
  • 03:19 - Setup of the episode
  • 04:00 - Volcano Trash
  • 23:10 - Real Friends
  • 48:57 – Wrap up
  • 50:00 – Contact us

For the May Young Readers show, Paul and Gwen discuss two highly anticipated graphic novels: Ben Sears’s Volcano Trash (Koyama Press) and Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends (First Second). While one text is an action adventure science fiction fantasy and the other is a memoir, both books touch upon the importance that relationships play in young people’s lives.

To being the show, Paul introduces Volcano Trash, the sequel to Ben Sears’s acclaimed 2016 graphic novel Night Air, the first in a series that takes place in what Sears terms “the Double+” universe. Both texts feature the exploits of a young man called Plus Man, his faithful sidekick, the robot Hank, as they engage in capers and navigate a world in which adults very often have nefarious agendas. Paul explains that even though the majority of secondary characters in Volcano Trash are male, the series would be enjoyable for all readers. Gwen agrees and chimes in with her appreciation for Sears’s use of color and his ability to add suspense and “motion” to the comic through the use of a variety of stylistic techniques. Gwen and Paul conclude by discussing the way that Sears’s sense of humor adds a welcome levity to the hijinks. (You can also check out additional discussion of Volcano Trash on the recent Publisher Spotlight episode devoted to Koyama Press.)

Next, the pair discuss Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends, a memoir of Hale’s grade school years that focuses on friendships won and lost. In addition to considering the features of Hale and Pham’s collaborative work, Gwen underscores the importance of the "Author’s Note," which allows Hale to look back over her childhood, explain her rationale for writing a memoir, and provide young readers with advice about navigating the complicated hierarchies that develop in grade school. Paul agrees and points to the inclusion of Hale’s grade school photographs as a way to highlight the fact that the story is both real and focused on Hale’s actual experiences. Both Gwen and Paul highly recommend this text as an excellent read for any young person, regardless of whether they identify more with Shannon and are struggling to find true friendships or whether they are popular and confident but might benefit from thinking about friendships from the perspective of other kids.

]]> 3186 no Episode 241: Reviews of Boundless and User http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-241-reviews-of-boundless-and-user Time Codes: 00:01:23 - Introduction 00:05:11 - Welcome new Patreon supporters! 00:08:34 - Boundless 00:44:55 - User 01:16:41 - Wrap up 01:17:43 - Contact us This week on the review show Paul joins Derek in discussing two new recent releases. They begin with Jillian Tamaki's Boundless, published by Drawn and Quarterly. This is a collection of nine short stories, most of which have been previously published in Frontier, Nobrow, and Hazlitt.net. The guys begin by discussing how Tamaki structures the contents, along with including new pieces, in order to give the collection visual and thematic coherency. Unlike her longer narratives Skim and This One Summer, both with her cousin Mariko, Tamaki tends to use the shorter storytelling forms to create pieces that are slightly askew and bend the reality that we know. Next, Paul and Derek turn to Devin Grayson, John Bolton, and Sean Phillips's User (Image Comics). This was originally published as a three-issue prestige-format miniseries through Vertigo Comics in 2001, but until now has never been collected in a single volume. User is the tale of a young woman finding refuge in a MUD, escaping the chaos that surrounds her real-life work and family. What makes the narrative notable is its handling of online interaction and gender identification, quite provocative at the time of its original publication. And while the guys appreciate what Grayson and company are doing, they note the slightly dated nature of this comic. As they point out, understanding the temporal context puts everything into perspective. Wed, 24 May 2017 13:25:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Reality Askew Time Codes: 00:01:23 - Introduction 00:05:11 - Welcome new Patreon supporters! 00:08:34 - Boundless 00:44:55 - User 01:16:41 - Wrap up 01:17:43 - Contact us This week on the review show Paul joins Derek in discussing two new recent releases. They begin with Jillian Tamaki's Boundless, published by Drawn and Quarterly. This is a collection of nine short stories, most of which have been previously published in Frontier, Nobrow, and Hazlitt.net. The guys begin by discussing how Tamaki structures the contents, along with including new pieces, in order to give the collection visual and thematic coherency. Unlike her longer narratives Skim and This One Summer, both with her cousin Mariko, Tamaki tends to use the shorter storytelling forms to create pieces that are slightly askew and bend the reality that we know. Next, Paul and Derek turn to Devin Grayson, John Bolton, and Sean Phillips's User (Image Comics). This was originally published as a three-issue prestige-format miniseries through Vertigo Comics in 2001, but until now has never been collected in a single volume. User is the tale of a young woman finding refuge in a MUD, escaping the chaos that surrounds her real-life work and family. What makes the narrative notable is its handling of online interaction and gender identification, quite provocative at the time of its original publication. And while the guys appreciate what Grayson and company are doing, they note the slightly dated nature of this comic. As they point out, understanding the temporal context puts everything into perspective. Time Codes:

  • 00:01:23 - Introduction
  • 00:05:11 - Welcome new Patreon supporters!
  • 00:08:34 - Boundless
  • 00:44:55 - User
  • 01:16:41 - Wrap up
  • 01:17:43 - Contact us

This week on the review show Paul joins Derek in discussing two new recent releases. They begin with Jillian Tamaki's Boundless, published by Drawn and Quarterly. This is a collection of nine short stories, most of which have been previously published in Frontier, Nobrow, and Hazlitt.net. The guys begin by discussing how Tamaki structures the contents, along with including new pieces, in order to give the collection visual and thematic coherency. Unlike her longer narratives Skim and This One Summer, both with her cousin Mariko, Tamaki tends to use the shorter storytelling forms to create pieces that are slightly askew and bend the reality that we know.

Next, Paul and Derek turn to Devin Grayson, John Bolton, and Sean Phillips's User (Image Comics). This was originally published as a three-issue prestige-format miniseries through Vertigo Comics in 2001, but until now has never been collected in a single volume. User is the tale of a young woman finding refuge in a MUD, escaping the chaos that surrounds her real-life work and family. What makes the narrative notable is its handling of online interaction and gender identification, quite provocative at the time of its original publication. And while the guys appreciate what Grayson and company are doing, they note the slightly dated nature of this comic. As they point out, understanding the temporal context puts everything into perspective.

]]> 4867 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Dave Chisholm http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-dave-chisholm Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:31 - Setup of interview 00:03:48 - Interview with Dave Chisholm 01:03:55 - Wrap up 01:05:04- Contact us   On this interview episode, Derek talks with Dave Chisholm, whose new book Instrumental comes out soon from Z2 Comics. This is the story of a musician who comes upon a trumpet with unique powers, allowing him to transform the lives around him, including those of his fellow bandmates. Dave's background -- a professional trumpet player, songwriter, composer, bandleader, and educator -- becomes the wellspring from which he pulls his narrative, so much of his conversation with Derek is devoted to the power of music and its translation into visual form. The graphic novel also comes with a soundtrack, seven songs composed and performed by Dave. Over the course of the interview the two discuss the genesis of this project, the fantastical nature of the story, the unique links between audio and visual representations, and Dave's work as an artist on this and other projects, including the Study Group webcomic, The Tyranny of the Muse. Mon, 22 May 2017 16:12:05 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal With Great Talent Comes... Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:31 - Setup of interview 00:03:48 - Interview with Dave Chisholm 01:03:55 - Wrap up 01:05:04- Contact us   On this interview episode, Derek talks with Dave Chisholm, whose new book Instrumental comes out soon from Z2 Comics. This is the story of a musician who comes upon a trumpet with unique powers, allowing him to transform the lives around him, including those of his fellow bandmates. Dave's background -- a professional trumpet player, songwriter, composer, bandleader, and educator -- becomes the wellspring from which he pulls his narrative, so much of his conversation with Derek is devoted to the power of music and its translation into visual form. The graphic novel also comes with a soundtrack, seven songs composed and performed by Dave. Over the course of the interview the two discuss the genesis of this project, the fantastical nature of the story, the unique links between audio and visual representations, and Dave's work as an artist on this and other projects, including the Study Group webcomic, The Tyranny of the Muse. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:31 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:48 - Interview with Dave Chisholm
  • 01:03:55 - Wrap up
  • 01:05:04- Contact us

 

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Dave Chisholm, whose new book Instrumental comes out soon from Z2 Comics. This is the story of a musician who comes upon a trumpet with unique powers, allowing him to transform the lives around him, including those of his fellow bandmates. Dave's background -- a professional trumpet player, songwriter, composer, bandleader, and educator -- becomes the wellspring from which he pulls his narrative, so much of his conversation with Derek is devoted to the power of music and its translation into visual form. The graphic novel also comes with a soundtrack, seven songs composed and performed by Dave. Over the course of the interview the two discuss the genesis of this project, the fantastical nature of the story, the unique links between audio and visual representations, and Dave's work as an artist on this and other projects, including the Study Group webcomic, The Tyranny of the Muse.

]]> 4493 no Comics Alternative Special: A Roundtable Discussion on Children’s and Young Adult Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-special-a-roundtable-discussion-on-childrens-and-young-adult-comics On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Gwen and Derek moderate a roundtable discussion on comics for children and young adults. Joining them in the conversation are Karly Marie Grice and Joe Sutliff Sanders, both contributors to the brand new book coedited by Gwen, Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collection of Essays (University Press of Mississippi). Over the course of the roundtable, both Joe and Karly present the research they conducted for the collection -- the aesthetics of children's digital comics and contesting narratives in Gene Luen Yang's Boxers & Saints, respectively -- but the core of the discussion centers on the current state of children's and adolescent comics, the scholarship surrounding it, questions of demographics, and the pedagogical challenges facing educators when framing the medium. Gwen's coeditor, Michelle Ann Abate, had planned on joining the roundtable discussion, but due to technical difficulties she was unable to do so. Fri, 19 May 2017 15:38:04 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Forever Young On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Gwen and Derek moderate a roundtable discussion on comics for children and young adults. Joining them in the conversation are Karly Marie Grice and Joe Sutliff Sanders, both contributors to the brand new book coedited by Gwen, Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collection of Essays (University Press of Mississippi). Over the course of the roundtable, both Joe and Karly present the research they conducted for the collection -- the aesthetics of children's digital comics and contesting narratives in Gene Luen Yang's Boxers & Saints, respectively -- but the core of the discussion centers on the current state of children's and adolescent comics, the scholarship surrounding it, questions of demographics, and the pedagogical challenges facing educators when framing the medium. Gwen's coeditor, Michelle Ann Abate, had planned on joining the roundtable discussion, but due to technical difficulties she was unable to do so.

On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Gwen and Derek moderate a roundtable discussion on comics for children and young adults. Joining them in the conversation are Karly Marie Grice and Joe Sutliff Sanders, both contributors to the brand new book coedited by Gwen, Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collection of Essays (University Press of Mississippi). Over the course of the roundtable, both Joe and Karly present the research they conducted for the collection -- the aesthetics of children's digital comics and contesting narratives in Gene Luen Yang's Boxers & Saints, respectively -- but the core of the discussion centers on the current state of children's and adolescent comics, the scholarship surrounding it, questions of demographics, and the pedagogical challenges facing educators when framing the medium.

Gwen's coeditor, Michelle Ann Abate, had planned on joining the roundtable discussion, but due to technical difficulties she was unable to do so.

]]> 4889 no Episode 240: A Publisher Spotlight on Koyama Press http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-240-a-publisher-spotlight-on-koyama-press Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:17 - Listener tweets! 00:08:18 - Interview with Annie Koyama 00:31:51 - You & a Bike & a Road 00:50:09 - Sunburning 01:07:19 - Crawl Space 01:24:45 - Condo Heartbreak Disco 01:38:05 - Volcano Trash 01:50:13 - So Pretty/Very Rotten 02:03:14 - Wrap up 02:04:18 - Contact us For this week's review episode the Two Guys with PhDs turn a critical spotlight on Koyama Press and its spring 2017 releases. They devoted an entire episode to Koyama a couple of years ago, but this season there are just so many great titles coming out from the press that the guys wanted to look at all of their releases and not just two or three scheduled across several weeks. First, though, they share a brief conversation with the press' founder and publisher, Annie Koyama, who provides an overview and history of the Canadian publishing house. Then the guys start discussing the new releases, beginning with Eleanor Davis's You & a Bike & a Road, a diary comic of her time biking from Arizona to Georgia and the various experiences and encounters she had along the way. Reading this book has even gotten Derek back exercising on his bike, although Andy wasn't inspired in quite the same way. After that they look at another autobiographical work in diary form, Keiler Roberts's Sunburning. The Two Guys have discussed Roberts's work on the podcast previously, but this is the first time the both of them have focused on one of her entire books, her first Koyama Press release. Next, they turn to Crawl Space, the latest from Koyama creator Jesse Jacobs. This is a visually unique work, combining Jacobs's geometric abstractions with a straightforward, yet self-reflexibly revealing, storyline. Another experimental work is Eric Kostiuk Williams's Condo Heartbreak Disco. At the center of this narrative are Komio and The Willendorf Braid, two figures whose stories are part of Williams's Hungry Bottom Comics series, of which neither of the guys are familiar (unfortunately). Then it's on to Volcano Trash, the follow up to Ben Sears's Night Air which was leased last year. This all-age adventure featuring Plus Man and Hank is one of the highlights of the week, and the guys hope Sears continues developing this series. And finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with Jane Mai and An Nguyen's hybrid text, So Pretty/Very Rotten: Comics and Essays on Lolita Fashion and Cute Culture. This is a fascinating exploration of a cultural trend that neither of the guys really knew much about -- at least in detail -- and one that caters to their scholarly sensibilities. Wed, 17 May 2017 16:03:01 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Holy Balls! Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:17 - Listener tweets! 00:08:18 - Interview with Annie Koyama 00:31:51 - You & a Bike & a Road 00:50:09 - Sunburning 01:07:19 - Crawl Space 01:24:45 - Condo Heartbreak Disco 01:38:05 - Volcano Trash 01:50:13 - So Pretty/Very Rotten 02:03:14 - Wrap up 02:04:18 - Contact us For this week's review episode the Two Guys with PhDs turn a critical spotlight on Koyama Press and its spring 2017 releases. They devoted an entire episode to Koyama a couple of years ago, but this season there are just so many great titles coming out from the press that the guys wanted to look at all of their releases and not just two or three scheduled across several weeks. First, though, they share a brief conversation with the press' founder and publisher, Annie Koyama, who provides an overview and history of the Canadian publishing house. Then the guys start discussing the new releases, beginning with Eleanor Davis's You & a Bike & a Road, a diary comic of her time biking from Arizona to Georgia and the various experiences and encounters she had along the way. Reading this book has even gotten Derek back exercising on his bike, although Andy wasn't inspired in quite the same way. After that they look at another autobiographical work in diary form, Keiler Roberts's Sunburning. The Two Guys have discussed Roberts's work on the podcast previously, but this is the first time the both of them have focused on one of her entire books, her first Koyama Press release. Next, they turn to Crawl Space, the latest from Koyama creator Jesse Jacobs. This is a visually unique work, combining Jacobs's geometric abstractions with a straightforward, yet self-reflexibly revealing, storyline. Another experimental work is Eric Kostiuk Williams's Condo Heartbreak Disco. At the center of this narrative are Komio and The Willendorf Braid, two figures whose stories are part of Williams's Hungry Bottom Comics series, of which neither of the guys are familiar (unfortunately). Then it's on to Volcano Trash, the follow up to Ben Sears's Night Air which was leased last year. This all-age adventure featuring Plus Man and Hank is one of the highlights of the week, and the guys hope Sears continues developing this series. And finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with Jane Mai and An Nguyen's hybrid text, So Pretty/Very Rotten: Comics and Essays on Lolita Fashion and Cute Culture. This is a fascinating exploration of a cultural trend that neither of the guys really knew much about -- at least in detail -- and one that caters to their scholarly sensibilities. Time Codes:

For this week's review episode the Two Guys with PhDs turn a critical spotlight on Koyama Press and its spring 2017 releases. They devoted an entire episode to Koyama a couple of years ago, but this season there are just so many great titles coming out from the press that the guys wanted to look at all of their releases and not just two or three scheduled across several weeks. First, though, they share a brief conversation with the press' founder and publisher, Annie Koyama, who provides an overview and history of the Canadian publishing house.

Then the guys start discussing the new releases, beginning with Eleanor Davis's You & a Bike & a Road, a diary comic of her time biking from Arizona to Georgia and the various experiences and encounters she had along the way. Reading this book has even gotten Derek back exercising on his bike, although Andy wasn't inspired in quite the same way. After that they look at another autobiographical work in diary form, Keiler Roberts's Sunburning. The Two Guys have discussed Roberts's work on the podcast previously, but this is the first time the both of them have focused on one of her entire books, her first Koyama Press release.

Next, they turn to Crawl Space, the latest from Koyama creator Jesse Jacobs. This is a visually unique work, combining Jacobs's geometric abstractions with a straightforward, yet self-reflexibly revealing, storyline. Another experimental work is Eric Kostiuk Williams's Condo Heartbreak Disco. At the center of this narrative are Komio and The Willendorf Braid, two figures whose stories are part of Williams's Hungry Bottom Comics series, of which neither of the guys are familiar (unfortunately).

Then it's on to Volcano Trash, the follow up to Ben Sears's Night Air which was leased last year. This all-age adventure featuring Plus Man and Hank is one of the highlights of the week, and the guys hope Sears continues developing this series. And finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with Jane Mai and An Nguyen's hybrid text, So Pretty/Very Rotten: Comics and Essays on Lolita Fashion and Cute Culture. This is a fascinating exploration of a cultural trend that neither of the guys really knew much about -- at least in detail -- and one that caters to their scholarly sensibilities.

]]> 7647 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Sharon Shinn and Molly Knox Ostertag http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-sharon-shinn-and-molly-knox-ostertag Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:14 - Setup of interview 04:04 - Interview with Sharon Shinn and Molly Knox Ostertag 57:52 - Wrap up 59:37 - Contact us On this interview episode Gwen and Derek talk with Sharon Shinn and Molly Knox Ostertag. Their new book Shattered Warrior comes out this week from First Second, and they discuss their experiences in developing the project and their process of collaboration. This is Sharon's first graphic novel -- she's the author of over 25 prose novels -- so she shares her journey of discover while working in a different medium. And while Molly is primarily known for her successful webcomic Strong Female Protagonist (co-created with Brennan Lee Mulligan), this is her first time in working on a longer, sustained narrative for print. Gwen and Derek talk with their guests about the genesis of this story, the excitement of world creation, and their thoughts on intended reading audiences. Tue, 16 May 2017 17:41:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Stars Are Indispensable Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 02:14 - Setup of interview 04:04 - Interview with Sharon Shinn and Molly Knox Ostertag 57:52 - Wrap up 59:37 - Contact us On this interview episode Gwen and Derek talk with Sharon Shinn and Molly Knox Ostertag. Their new book Shattered Warrior comes out this week from First Second, and they discuss their experiences in developing the project and their process of collaboration. This is Sharon's first graphic novel -- she's the author of over 25 prose novels -- so she shares her journey of discover while working in a different medium. And while Molly is primarily known for her successful webcomic Strong Female Protagonist (co-created with Brennan Lee Mulligan), this is her first time in working on a longer, sustained narrative for print. Gwen and Derek talk with their guests about the genesis of this story, the excitement of world creation, and their thoughts on intended reading audiences. Time Codes:

On this interview episode Gwen and Derek talk with Sharon Shinn and Molly Knox Ostertag. Their new book Shattered Warrior comes out this week from First Second, and they discuss their experiences in developing the project and their process of collaboration. This is Sharon's first graphic novel -- she's the author of over 25 prose novels -- so she shares her journey of discover while working in a different medium. And while Molly is primarily known for her successful webcomic Strong Female Protagonist (co-created with Brennan Lee Mulligan), this is her first time in working on a longer, sustained narrative for print. Gwen and Derek talk with their guests about the genesis of this story, the excitement of world creation, and their thoughts on intended reading audiences.

]]> 3746 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Flight of the Raven and The Reprieve http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-flight-of-the-raven-and-the-reprieve Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:08 - Comments on the Eisner Award nominations 00:08:31 - Flight of the Raven 00:42:47 - The Reprieve 01:06:13 - Wrap up 01:07:15 - Contact us Edward and Derek are back with the latest Euro Comics episode. This month, they focus on recent translations of the work of Jean-Pierre Gibrat, Flight of the Raven (IDW/EuroComics) and both volumes of The Reprieve (Europe Comics). Edward is very familiar with Gibrat's work, as he was the translator of The Reprieve, and so he provides his insights within that context. Throughout their discussion of these narratives, the guys highlight what they see as the thematic links between the two, all of which springs from the books' settings: WW II France during German occupation. Indeed, the two stories are companion pieces with the character Cécile appearing in both. The Reprieve takes place before the Normandy invasion with Julien Sarlat, escaping from mandatory German labor, hiding out in his small hometown with the help of Cécile and one of her acquaintances in the French Resistance. The action in Flight of the Raven begins around the time of the Allied landing, with Cécile's sister, Jeanne, being jailed for unlawful weapons possession. She is a communist and active member of the Resistance, and her story is interlinked with that of François, a roguish thief who appears apolitical. As both Edward and Derek point out, Gibrat uses both tales to explore ideas concerning commitment, responsibility, and collaboration, and each of the characters his stories illustrates facets of engagé. The art in both works is lush and beautiful, and Gibrat's pacing is aptly handled given the contextual action, and sometimes the lack thereof, embedded in each narrative. Mon, 15 May 2017 16:32:59 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hollywood? Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:08 - Comments on the Eisner Award nominations 00:08:31 - Flight of the Raven 00:42:47 - The Reprieve 01:06:13 - Wrap up 01:07:15 - Contact us Edward and Derek are back with the latest Euro Comics episode. This month, they focus on recent translations of the work of Jean-Pierre Gibrat, Flight of the Raven (IDW/EuroComics) and both volumes of The Reprieve (Europe Comics). Edward is very familiar with Gibrat's work, as he was the translator of The Reprieve, and so he provides his insights within that context. Throughout their discussion of these narratives, the guys highlight what they see as the thematic links between the two, all of which springs from the books' settings: WW II France during German occupation. Indeed, the two stories are companion pieces with the character Cécile appearing in both. The Reprieve takes place before the Normandy invasion with Julien Sarlat, escaping from mandatory German labor, hiding out in his small hometown with the help of Cécile and one of her acquaintances in the French Resistance. The action in Flight of the Raven begins around the time of the Allied landing, with Cécile's sister, Jeanne, being jailed for unlawful weapons possession. She is a communist and active member of the Resistance, and her story is interlinked with that of François, a roguish thief who appears apolitical. As both Edward and Derek point out, Gibrat uses both tales to explore ideas concerning commitment, responsibility, and collaboration, and each of the characters his stories illustrates facets of engagé. The art in both works is lush and beautiful, and Gibrat's pacing is aptly handled given the contextual action, and sometimes the lack thereof, embedded in each narrative. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:03:08 - Comments on the Eisner Award nominations
  • 00:08:31 - Flight of the Raven
  • 00:42:47 - The Reprieve
  • 01:06:13 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:15 - Contact us

Edward and Derek are back with the latest Euro Comics episode. This month, they focus on recent translations of the work of Jean-Pierre Gibrat, Flight of the Raven (IDW/EuroComics) and both volumes of The Reprieve (Europe Comics). Edward is very familiar with Gibrat's work, as he was the translator of The Reprieve, and so he provides his insights within that context. Throughout their discussion of these narratives, the guys highlight what they see as the thematic links between the two, all of which springs from the books' settings: WW II France during German occupation. Indeed, the two stories are companion pieces with the character Cécile appearing in both. The Reprieve takes place before the Normandy invasion with Julien Sarlat, escaping from mandatory German labor, hiding out in his small hometown with the help of Cécile and one of her acquaintances in the French Resistance. The action in Flight of the Raven begins around the time of the Allied landing, with Cécile's sister, Jeanne, being jailed for unlawful weapons possession. She is a communist and active member of the Resistance, and her story is interlinked with that of François, a roguish thief who appears apolitical. As both Edward and Derek point out, Gibrat uses both tales to explore ideas concerning commitment, responsibility, and collaboration, and each of the characters his stories illustrates facets of engagé. The art in both works is lush and beautiful, and Gibrat's pacing is aptly handled given the contextual action, and sometimes the lack thereof, embedded in each narrative.

]]> 4214 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-cullen-bunn-and-brian-hurtt Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Setup of interview 00:04:47 - Interview with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt 01:10:00 - Wrap up 01:11:29 - Contact us For this interview episode, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt, the creators behind The Damned, from Oni Press. This is a series with some history, beginning back in 2006 with the five-issues run, "Three Days Dead," and then the three-issue miniseries from 2008, "Prodigal Sons." Soon after that, Cullen and Brian began The Sixth Gun, but now that that long-running series is behind them, they decided to revisit and revitalize their first creative project together. Over the course of their conversation, Cullen and Brian talk about their efforts to reprint the original comics in color -- and with the help of the new series' colorist, Bill Crabtree -- the impetus behind the new on-going series, their work together on The Sixth Gun, and their process of collaboration on The Damned. Andy and Derek also ask them about some of their other projects, including Cullen's Harrow County (with Tyler Crook) and Brian's Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon (with Matt Kindt). Fri, 12 May 2017 14:12:49 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Yeggs Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:30 - Setup of interview 00:04:47 - Interview with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt 01:10:00 - Wrap up 01:11:29 - Contact us For this interview episode, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt, the creators behind The Damned, from Oni Press. This is a series with some history, beginning back in 2006 with the five-issues run, "Three Days Dead," and then the three-issue miniseries from 2008, "Prodigal Sons." Soon after that, Cullen and Brian began The Sixth Gun, but now that that long-running series is behind them, they decided to revisit and revitalize their first creative project together. Over the course of their conversation, Cullen and Brian talk about their efforts to reprint the original comics in color -- and with the help of the new series' colorist, Bill Crabtree -- the impetus behind the new on-going series, their work together on The Sixth Gun, and their process of collaboration on The Damned. Andy and Derek also ask them about some of their other projects, including Cullen's Harrow County (with Tyler Crook) and Brian's Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon (with Matt Kindt). Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:30 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:47 - Interview with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt
  • 01:10:00 - Wrap up
  • 01:11:29 - Contact us

For this interview episode, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt, the creators behind The Damned, from Oni Press. This is a series with some history, beginning back in 2006 with the five-issues run, "Three Days Dead," and then the three-issue miniseries from 2008, "Prodigal Sons." Soon after that, Cullen and Brian began The Sixth Gun, but now that that long-running series is behind them, they decided to revisit and revitalize their first creative project together. Over the course of their conversation, Cullen and Brian talk about their efforts to reprint the original comics in color -- and with the help of the new series' colorist, Bill Crabtree -- the impetus behind the new on-going series, their work together on The Sixth Gun, and their process of collaboration on The Damned. Andy and Derek also ask them about some of their other projects, including Cullen's Harrow County (with Tyler Crook) and Brian's Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon (with Matt Kindt).

]]> 4473 yes Young Readers: A Review of The Stone Heart and a Discussion of the Essay, "Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics" http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-a-review-of-the-stone-heart-and-a-discuss-of-the-essay-required-reading-50-of-the-best-kids-comics Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:30 - Setup of the episode 00:05:44 - The Stone Heart 00:32:12 - “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics” 00:49:44 - Introducing Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collect of Critical Essays 01:03:39 - Wrap up 01:03:58 - Contact us In this episode of The Comics Alternative's Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss the second volume in Faith Erin Hicks’s Nameless City trilogy, The Stone Heart (First Second), as well as Paste Magazine’s “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics” list. Paul also conducts a “mini-interview” with Gwen about the release of Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults, a volume she co-edited with Michelle Ann Abate for the University Press of Mississippi. The show begins with a review of the second volume in Faith Erin Hicks’s Nameless City trilogy, The Stone Heart. They praise the sequel’s strong plot and attention to perils of colonization and cultural erasure, and they consider the way that a number of contemporary comics creators have handled these concepts. Central to their discussion the fact that “Asian-inspired” texts are also a current trend in comics, and they explore the cultural implications of this trend. Finally, the pair react to the news that the trilogy has been optioned for a three-season, thirty-six episode TV series. Next, Gwen and Paul discuss “best of” lists in general, and in particular, Paste Magazine’s April 7, 2017 article, “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics.” There were some obvious picks on the list, some that were exciting…and others that leave Gwen and Paul shaking their heads. To finish the episode, Paul interviews Gwen about the genesis and contents of Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collect of Critical Essays, a volume that she co-edited with Dr. Michelle Ann Abate, a professor of children’s and YA literature and English at The Ohio State University. This “mini-interview” serves as a teaser for an upcoming Comics Alternative roundtable discussion that will feature Gwen, Michelle, and two of the contributors to the volume. Thu, 11 May 2017 18:39:53 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Required Reading...and Required Reading? Time Codes: 00:00:32 - Introduction 00:03:30 - Setup of the episode 00:05:44 - The Stone Heart 00:32:12 - “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics” 00:49:44 - Introducing Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collect of Critical Essays 01:03:39 - Wrap up 01:03:58 - Contact us In this episode of The Comics Alternative's Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss the second volume in Faith Erin Hicks’s Nameless City trilogy, The Stone Heart (First Second), as well as Paste Magazine’s “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics” list. Paul also conducts a “mini-interview” with Gwen about the release of Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults, a volume she co-edited with Michelle Ann Abate for the University Press of Mississippi. The show begins with a review of the second volume in Faith Erin Hicks’s Nameless City trilogy, The Stone Heart. They praise the sequel’s strong plot and attention to perils of colonization and cultural erasure, and they consider the way that a number of contemporary comics creators have handled these concepts. Central to their discussion the fact that “Asian-inspired” texts are also a current trend in comics, and they explore the cultural implications of this trend. Finally, the pair react to the news that the trilogy has been optioned for a three-season, thirty-six episode TV series. Next, Gwen and Paul discuss “best of” lists in general, and in particular, Paste Magazine’s April 7, 2017 article, “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics.” There were some obvious picks on the list, some that were exciting…and others that leave Gwen and Paul shaking their heads. To finish the episode, Paul interviews Gwen about the genesis and contents of Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collect of Critical Essays, a volume that she co-edited with Dr. Michelle Ann Abate, a professor of children’s and YA literature and English at The Ohio State University. This “mini-interview” serves as a teaser for an upcoming Comics Alternative roundtable discussion that will feature Gwen, Michelle, and two of the contributors to the volume. Time Codes:

In this episode of The Comics Alternative's Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss the second volume in Faith Erin Hicks’s Nameless City trilogy, The Stone Heart (First Second), as well as Paste Magazine’s “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics” list. Paul also conducts a “mini-interview” with Gwen about the release of Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults, a volume she co-edited with Michelle Ann Abate for the University Press of Mississippi.

The show begins with a review of the second volume in Faith Erin Hicks’s Nameless City trilogy, The Stone Heart. They praise the sequel’s strong plot and attention to perils of colonization and cultural erasure, and they consider the way that a number of contemporary comics creators have handled these concepts. Central to their discussion the fact that “Asian-inspired” texts are also a current trend in comics, and they explore the cultural implications of this trend. Finally, the pair react to the news that the trilogy has been optioned for a three-season, thirty-six episode TV series.

Next, Gwen and Paul discuss “best of” lists in general, and in particular, Paste Magazine’s April 7, 2017 article, “Required Reading: 50 of the Best Kids Comics.” There were some obvious picks on the list, some that were exciting…and others that leave Gwen and Paul shaking their heads.

To finish the episode, Paul interviews Gwen about the genesis and contents of Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults: A Collect of Critical Essays, a volume that she co-edited with Dr. Michelle Ann Abate, a professor of children’s and YA literature and English at The Ohio State University. This “mini-interview” serves as a teaser for an upcoming Comics Alternative roundtable discussion that will feature Gwen, Michelle, and two of the contributors to the volume.

]]> 4064 no Episode 239: Reviews of Herman by Trade, Rise of the Dungeon Master, and Eternal Empire #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-239-reviews-of-herman-by-trade-rise-of-the-dungeon-master-and-eternal-empire-1 Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Announcement of the 2017 Eisner Award nominees 00:08:13 - Last weekend's Free Comic Book Day 00:18:45 - Herman by Trade 00:41:43 - Rise of the Dungeon Master 01:09:03 - Eternal Empire #1 01:27:04 - Wrap up 01:27:56 - Contact us   This week Andy and Derek look at three new titles, each one visiting the fantastic in one form or another. Before they jump into the reviews, however, they discuss some of the big comics news from the past week: the announcement of the 2017 Eisner Award nominations and Free Comic Book Day. The guys don't go into too much detail about the Eisner nominees because they plan on devoting an upcoming episode to that topic. However, they do briefly mention the curious situation surrounding the nomination of the Love Is Love collection in the Best Anthology category. They have much more to say about last Saturday's Free Comic Book Day. Both guys share some of their experiences at their local shops and the free comics they got there. Listen to the podcast's FCBD episode for more details. But then the Two Guys get into the heart of this week's show. They begin with Chris W. Kim's Herman by Trade, coming out this week from SelfMadeHero. Although on the surface this appears to be a more realistic narrative, its fantastic elements become apparent in the transformation of the title character who has the ability to change his appearance and mimic others' abilities at will. As both Derek and Andy point out, this is an unusual story that sticks with you long after reading. Next, they turn to a new graphic biography that is all about fantasy, Rise of the Dungeon Master: Gary Gygax and the Creation of D&D (Nation Books). The art is by Koren Shadmi, but the book is written by David Kushner, based on a profile he wrote for Wired magazine in 2008. What's most notable about this brief biography is the narrative point of view, almost entirely presented in the second person. This is fully in keeping with the spirit of role-playing games, where in this case the the narrating presence is, in essence, your "dungeon master" guiding your awareness as you enter the creators' biographical realm. Finally, Andy and Derek conclude with the latest collaboration from Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn. Eternal Empire #1 (Image Comics) is a fantasy set in a distant world that, as Andy points out, is reminiscent of Game of Thrones. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time speculating on the originality of this series, wondering if the unique elements will become more apparent in the issues to come. And while Andy isn't sure if he'll stick around to find out, Derek is going to give Eternal Empire a chance, especially given his appreciation of the Luna brothers' previous comics, and especially Luna and Vaughn's previous series Alex + Ada. Wed, 10 May 2017 14:27:41 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Huzzah! Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Announcement of the 2017 Eisner Award nominees 00:08:13 - Last weekend's Free Comic Book Day 00:18:45 - Herman by Trade 00:41:43 - Rise of the Dungeon Master 01:09:03 - Eternal Empire #1 01:27:04 - Wrap up 01:27:56 - Contact us   This week Andy and Derek look at three new titles, each one visiting the fantastic in one form or another. Before they jump into the reviews, however, they discuss some of the big comics news from the past week: the announcement of the 2017 Eisner Award nominations and Free Comic Book Day. The guys don't go into too much detail about the Eisner nominees because they plan on devoting an upcoming episode to that topic. However, they do briefly mention the curious situation surrounding the nomination of the Love Is Love collection in the Best Anthology category. They have much more to say about last Saturday's Free Comic Book Day. Both guys share some of their experiences at their local shops and the free comics they got there. Listen to the podcast's FCBD episode for more details. But then the Two Guys get into the heart of this week's show. They begin with Chris W. Kim's Herman by Trade, coming out this week from SelfMadeHero. Although on the surface this appears to be a more realistic narrative, its fantastic elements become apparent in the transformation of the title character who has the ability to change his appearance and mimic others' abilities at will. As both Derek and Andy point out, this is an unusual story that sticks with you long after reading. Next, they turn to a new graphic biography that is all about fantasy, Rise of the Dungeon Master: Gary Gygax and the Creation of D&D (Nation Books). The art is by Koren Shadmi, but the book is written by David Kushner, based on a profile he wrote for Wired magazine in 2008. What's most notable about this brief biography is the narrative point of view, almost entirely presented in the second person. This is fully in keeping with the spirit of role-playing games, where in this case the the narrating presence is, in essence, your "dungeon master" guiding your awareness as you enter the creators' biographical realm. Finally, Andy and Derek conclude with the latest collaboration from Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn. Eternal Empire #1 (Image Comics) is a fantasy set in a distant world that, as Andy points out, is reminiscent of Game of Thrones. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time speculating on the originality of this series, wondering if the unique elements will become more apparent in the issues to come. And while Andy isn't sure if he'll stick around to find out, Derek is going to give Eternal Empire a chance, especially given his appreciation of the Luna brothers' previous comics, and especially Luna and Vaughn's previous series Alex + Ada. Time Codes:

 

This week Andy and Derek look at three new titles, each one visiting the fantastic in one form or another. Before they jump into the reviews, however, they discuss some of the big comics news from the past week: the announcement of the 2017 Eisner Award nominations and Free Comic Book Day. The guys don't go into too much detail about the Eisner nominees because they plan on devoting an upcoming episode to that topic. However, they do briefly mention the curious situation surrounding the nomination of the Love Is Love collection in the Best Anthology category. They have much more to say about last Saturday's Free Comic Book Day. Both guys share some of their experiences at their local shops and the free comics they got there. Listen to the podcast's FCBD episode for more details.

But then the Two Guys get into the heart of this week's show. They begin with Chris W. Kim's Herman by Trade, coming out this week from SelfMadeHero. Although on the surface this appears to be a more realistic narrative, its fantastic elements become apparent in the transformation of the title character who has the ability to change his appearance and mimic others' abilities at will. As both Derek and Andy point out, this is an unusual story that sticks with you long after reading.

Next, they turn to a new graphic biography that is all about fantasy, Rise of the Dungeon Master: Gary Gygax and the Creation of D&D (Nation Books). The art is by Koren Shadmi, but the book is written by David Kushner, based on a profile he wrote for Wired magazine in 2008. What's most notable about this brief biography is the narrative point of view, almost entirely presented in the second person. This is fully in keeping with the spirit of role-playing games, where in this case the the narrating presence is, in essence, your "dungeon master" guiding your awareness as you enter the creators' biographical realm.

Finally, Andy and Derek conclude with the latest collaboration from Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn. Eternal Empire #1 (Image Comics) is a fantasy set in a distant world that, as Andy points out, is reminiscent of Game of Thrones. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time speculating on the originality of this series, wondering if the unique elements will become more apparent in the issues to come. And while Andy isn't sure if he'll stick around to find out, Derek is going to give Eternal Empire a chance, especially given his appreciation of the Luna brothers' previous comics, and especially Luna and Vaughn's previous series Alex + Ada.

]]> 5458 no Webcomics: Reviews of Isle of Elsi, Late Bloomer, and Carriers http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-isle-of-elsi-late-bloomer-and-carriers Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Eisner Award nominees announced 00:10:04 - Isle of Elsi 00:47:30 - Late Bloomer 01:09:44 - Carriers 01:31:32 - Wrap up 01:32:31 - Contact us Sean and Derek are back with your monthly dose of webcomics analysis. Before they jump into their reviews, however, they spending a little time discussing the recent announcement of this year's nominees for the Eisner Awards. The guys will devote next month's episode to the actual webcomics nominated, so they don't go into much detail this time, but they do mention the big news that the judges have tried to distinguish "webcomics" from "digital comics"...albeit rather ineptly. Tune in next month for more in-depth discussion on this matter! But for May, Sean and Derek already have plenty to consider. They begin with Alec Longstreth's Isle of Elsi, an all-age fantasy with a penchant for word play. Both of the guys are bowled away by this webcomic, one of the most impressive that they've discussed on the show. Not only are the art and storytelling top-notch, but the design of the website is a big draw, as well. (And while you're at it, check out the Two Guys' 2014 interview with Longstreth.) Next, they turn to another webcomic from Webtoons, Late Bloomer. Written and drawn by Zealforart (AKA Tiffany Woodall), this is a shōjo-inspired romance about a young woman with a flower bud growing out of her belly, a family condition that can only be overcome with her being "deflowered." Yes, it is quite an unusual premise. Finally, Derek and Sean wrap up with Lauren R. Weinstein's Carriers. This completed webcomic was originally published in five parts on the Nautilus website, and it received an Ignatz Award nomination in 2015 for the "Outstanding Online Comic" category. It's a sobering look at being a carrier of cystic fibrosis and what means for young couples wanting to start a family. Mon, 08 May 2017 14:22:08 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Very Punny Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Eisner Award nominees announced 00:10:04 - Isle of Elsi 00:47:30 - Late Bloomer 01:09:44 - Carriers 01:31:32 - Wrap up 01:32:31 - Contact us Sean and Derek are back with your monthly dose of webcomics analysis. Before they jump into their reviews, however, they spending a little time discussing the recent announcement of this year's nominees for the Eisner Awards. The guys will devote next month's episode to the actual webcomics nominated, so they don't go into much detail this time, but they do mention the big news that the judges have tried to distinguish "webcomics" from "digital comics"...albeit rather ineptly. Tune in next month for more in-depth discussion on this matter! But for May, Sean and Derek already have plenty to consider. They begin with Alec Longstreth's Isle of Elsi, an all-age fantasy with a penchant for word play. Both of the guys are bowled away by this webcomic, one of the most impressive that they've discussed on the show. Not only are the art and storytelling top-notch, but the design of the website is a big draw, as well. (And while you're at it, check out the Two Guys' 2014 interview with Longstreth.) Next, they turn to another webcomic from Webtoons, Late Bloomer. Written and drawn by Zealforart (AKA Tiffany Woodall), this is a shōjo-inspired romance about a young woman with a flower bud growing out of her belly, a family condition that can only be overcome with her being "deflowered." Yes, it is quite an unusual premise. Finally, Derek and Sean wrap up with Lauren R. Weinstein's Carriers. This completed webcomic was originally published in five parts on the Nautilus website, and it received an Ignatz Award nomination in 2015 for the "Outstanding Online Comic" category. It's a sobering look at being a carrier of cystic fibrosis and what means for young couples wanting to start a family. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:28 - Introduction
  • 00:03:03 - Eisner Award nominees announced
  • 00:10:04 - Isle of Elsi
  • 00:47:30 - Late Bloomer
  • 01:09:44 - Carriers
  • 01:31:32 - Wrap up
  • 01:32:31 - Contact us

Sean and Derek are back with your monthly dose of webcomics analysis. Before they jump into their reviews, however, they spending a little time discussing the recent announcement of this year's nominees for the Eisner Awards. The guys will devote next month's episode to the actual webcomics nominated, so they don't go into much detail this time, but they do mention the big news that the judges have tried to distinguish "webcomics" from "digital comics"...albeit rather ineptly. Tune in next month for more in-depth discussion on this matter!

But for May, Sean and Derek already have plenty to consider. They begin with Alec Longstreth's Isle of Elsi, an all-age fantasy with a penchant for word play. Both of the guys are bowled away by this webcomic, one of the most impressive that they've discussed on the show. Not only are the art and storytelling top-notch, but the design of the website is a big draw, as well. (And while you're at it, check out the Two Guys' 2014 interview with Longstreth.)

Next, they turn to another webcomic from Webtoons, Late Bloomer. Written and drawn by Zealforart (AKA Tiffany Woodall), this is a shōjo-inspired romance about a young woman with a flower bud growing out of her belly, a family condition that can only be overcome with her being "deflowered." Yes, it is quite an unusual premise.

Finally, Derek and Sean wrap up with Lauren R. Weinstein's Carriers. This completed webcomic was originally published in five parts on the Nautilus website, and it received an Ignatz Award nomination in 2015 for the "Outstanding Online Comic" category. It's a sobering look at being a carrier of cystic fibrosis and what means for young couples wanting to start a family.

]]> 5750 no On Location: FCBD 2017 at Valhalla Games and Comic http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-fcbd-2017-at-valhalla-games-and-comic For Free Comic Book Day 2017, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX to talk with customers and shop employees about the various FCBD offerings this year. Joining him on this episode are Sabrina, the shop manager, as well as one of her associates, Stephanie. But also joining in on the conversation is a first-timer to the podcast, Naheem, who just happens to be from Derek's hometown, Charlotte, NC. Sat, 06 May 2017 22:34:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Free! Comic! Book! Day! For Free Comic Book Day 2017, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX to talk with customers and shop employees about the various FCBD offerings this year. Joining him on this episode are Sabrina, the shop manager, as well as one of her associates, Stephanie. But also joining in on the conversation is a first-timer to the podcast, Naheem, who just happens to be from Derek's hometown, Charlotte, NC.

For Free Comic Book Day 2017, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX to talk with customers and shop employees about the various FCBD offerings this year. Joining him on this episode are Sabrina, the shop manager, as well as one of her associates, Stephanie. But also joining in on the conversation is a first-timer to the podcast, Naheem, who just happens to be from Derek's hometown, Charlotte, NC.

]]> 1875 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Jeff Lemire http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jeff-lemire Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:40 - Setup of interview 00:06:49 - Interview with Jeff Lemire 01:33:07 - Wrap up 01:34:37 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek and Andy are excited to have Jeff Lemire as their guest. His new graphic novel, Roughneck, has just been released by Simon & Schuster's Gallery 13 imprint, and he has a new ongoing series through Image Comics, Royal City. The guys talk with Jeff about those works, particularly their place within Lemire's growing body of writing, but they also ask him about his other current ongoing series, such as Descender (with Dustin Nguyen on art), Black Hammer (along with Dean Ormston), and the miniseries A.D.: After Death (written by Scott Snyder). A lot of ground is covered in this interview, including revelations on the early origins of Roughneck, the long-range plans for Royal City, the themes and characters that seem to be woven throughout Jeff's oeuvre, the curious links between Descender and Adam Strange, and Jeff's thoughts on "slice of life" stories and their reception within the comics-reading community. And here's a fun fact! Jeff Lemire was actually the focus of the Two Guys' very first creator spotlight way back in Episode 6 of The Comics Alternative, and at the time Andy and Derek thought there was almost too much to talk about in terms of Jeff's output. But now almost five years later, and with so many more titles under Jeff's belt, those assumptions seem amusing in hindsight. It's important to note that Andy and Derek recorded their interview with Jeff the day before this year's Eisner Award nominations were announced, where he has landed in the Best New Series and Best Writer categories (both for Black Hammer). This is why no one brings up the Eisners at any time in the conversation. But a big CONGRATULATIONS to Jeff for this well-deserved attention! Fri, 05 May 2017 15:19:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Rotting Husks Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:40 - Setup of interview 00:06:49 - Interview with Jeff Lemire 01:33:07 - Wrap up 01:34:37 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek and Andy are excited to have Jeff Lemire as their guest. His new graphic novel, Roughneck, has just been released by Simon & Schuster's Gallery 13 imprint, and he has a new ongoing series through Image Comics, Royal City. The guys talk with Jeff about those works, particularly their place within Lemire's growing body of writing, but they also ask him about his other current ongoing series, such as Descender (with Dustin Nguyen on art), Black Hammer (along with Dean Ormston), and the miniseries A.D.: After Death (written by Scott Snyder). A lot of ground is covered in this interview, including revelations on the early origins of Roughneck, the long-range plans for Royal City, the themes and characters that seem to be woven throughout Jeff's oeuvre, the curious links between Descender and Adam Strange, and Jeff's thoughts on "slice of life" stories and their reception within the comics-reading community. And here's a fun fact! Jeff Lemire was actually the focus of the Two Guys' very first creator spotlight way back in Episode 6 of The Comics Alternative, and at the time Andy and Derek thought there was almost too much to talk about in terms of Jeff's output. But now almost five years later, and with so many more titles under Jeff's belt, those assumptions seem amusing in hindsight. It's important to note that Andy and Derek recorded their interview with Jeff the day before this year's Eisner Award nominations were announced, where he has landed in the Best New Series and Best Writer categories (both for Black Hammer). This is why no one brings up the Eisners at any time in the conversation. But a big CONGRATULATIONS to Jeff for this well-deserved attention! Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:40 - Setup of interview
  • 00:06:49 - Interview with Jeff Lemire
  • 01:33:07 - Wrap up
  • 01:34:37 - Contact us

On this interview episode Derek and Andy are excited to have Jeff Lemire as their guest. His new graphic novel, Roughneck, has just been released by Simon & Schuster's Gallery 13 imprint, and he has a new ongoing series through Image Comics, Royal City. The guys talk with Jeff about those works, particularly their place within Lemire's growing body of writing, but they also ask him about his other current ongoing series, such as Descender (with Dustin Nguyen on art), Black Hammer (along with Dean Ormston), and the miniseries A.D.: After Death (written by Scott Snyder). A lot of ground is covered in this interview, including revelations on the early origins of Roughneck, the long-range plans for Royal City, the themes and characters that seem to be woven throughout Jeff's oeuvre, the curious links between Descender and Adam Strange, and Jeff's thoughts on "slice of life" stories and their reception within the comics-reading community.

And here's a fun fact! Jeff Lemire was actually the focus of the Two Guys' very first creator spotlight way back in Episode 6 of The Comics Alternative, and at the time Andy and Derek thought there was almost too much to talk about in terms of Jeff's output. But now almost five years later, and with so many more titles under Jeff's belt, those assumptions seem amusing in hindsight.

It's important to note that Andy and Derek recorded their interview with Jeff the day before this year's Eisner Award nominations were announced, where he has landed in the Best New Series and Best Writer categories (both for Black Hammer). This is why no one brings up the Eisners at any time in the conversation. But a big CONGRATULATIONS to Jeff for this well-deserved attention!

]]> 5597 no Episode 238: The May Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-238-the-may-previews-catalog It's time for another look at the current Previews catalog, so this week Andy and Derek check out all of the interesting solicitations for May. First, though, they briefly discuss their plans (or lack thereof) for Free Comic Book Day this coming weekend, and then they share some listener mail. After that, they begin their deep dive into the May Previews..and it's a good long dive this month. Among the many upcoming titles they highlight are: Dark Horse Comics - Moebius Library: The Art of Edena, The End League: Library Edition, Mister X: The Modern Age, and Lifeformed: Cleo Makes Contact DC/Vertigo - Swamp Thing: Bronze Age Omnibus and The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Saucer Country, Time and Vine #1, Space Bat and the Fugitives: Tacos at the End of the World, Jungle Girls, The Story of Men, Behind You: One-Shot Horror Stories, Jérôme K. Jérôme Blôche, Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer, and Sax Rohmer’s Dope Image Comics - Moonstruck #1, Generation Gone #1, By Chance or Providence, The Other Side: Special Edition, and The Street Angel Gang Aftershock Comics - Unholy Grail #1 Alternative Comics - Cloud Stories Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Shit and Piss BOOM! Studios - Jane Cinebook - Valerian, Vol. 17: Orphans of the Stars Dynamite Entertainment - Bettie Page #1, The Green Hornet ’66 Meets The Spirit #1, and James Bond: Kill Chain #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Palookaville, Vol. 23 Fantagraphics Books - Fog Over Tolbiac Bridge, My Pretty Vampire, All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #2, and Ten Thousand Years in Hell First Second - Pigs Might Fly and Demon, Vol. 3 Gallery 13 - Alone Lion Forge - Superb #1 Oni Press - Kill Them All Simon and Schuster - The Good Earth Titan Comics - The Death of Stalin Vault Comics - Heathen, Vol. 1 Vertical Comics - She and Her Cat Cernunnos Publishing - Headlight Honeys: The “Perfect Pair” in Vintage Paperbacks, Pulps, and Comics Abrams Books - Kirby: King of Comics Anniversary Edition Wed, 03 May 2017 16:54:52 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Super Teams, Literature, and Headlights It's time for another look at the current Previews catalog, so this week Andy and Derek check out all of the interesting solicitations for May. First, though, they briefly discuss their plans (or lack thereof) for Free Comic Book Day this coming weekend, and then they share some listener mail. After that, they begin their deep dive into the May Previews..and it's a good long dive this month. Among the many upcoming titles they highlight are: Dark Horse Comics - Moebius Library: The Art of Edena, The End League: Library Edition, Mister X: The Modern Age, and Lifeformed: Cleo Makes Contact DC/Vertigo - Swamp Thing: Bronze Age Omnibus and The American Way: Those Above and Those Below #1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Saucer Country, Time and Vine #1, Space Bat and the Fugitives: Tacos at the End of the World, Jungle Girls, The Story of Men, Behind You: One-Shot Horror Stories, Jérôme K. Jérôme Blôche, Vol. 1: The Shadow Killer, and Sax Rohmer’s Dope Image Comics - Moonstruck #1, Generation Gone #1, By Chance or Providence, The Other Side: Special Edition, and The Street Angel Gang Aftershock Comics - Unholy Grail #1 Alternative Comics - Cloud Stories Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Shit and Piss BOOM! Studios - Jane Cinebook - Valerian, Vol. 17: Orphans of the Stars Dynamite Entertainment - Bettie Page #1, The Green Hornet ’66 Meets The Spirit #1, and James Bond: Kill Chain #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Palookaville, Vol. 23 Fantagraphics Books - Fog Over Tolbiac Bridge, My Pretty Vampire, All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #2, and Ten Thousand Years in Hell First Second - Pigs Might Fly and Demon, Vol. 3 Gallery 13 - Alone Lion Forge - Superb #1 Oni Press - Kill Them All Simon and Schuster - The Good Earth Titan Comics - The Death of Stalin Vault Comics - Heathen, Vol. 1 Vertical Comics - She and Her Cat Cernunnos Publishing - Headlight Honeys: The “Perfect Pair” in Vintage Paperbacks, Pulps, and Comics Abrams Books - Kirby: King of Comics Anniversary Edition

It's time for another look at the current Previews catalog, so this week Andy and Derek check out all of the interesting solicitations for May. First, though, they briefly discuss their plans (or lack thereof) for Free Comic Book Day this coming weekend, and then they share some listener mail. After that, they begin their deep dive into the May Previews..and it's a good long dive this month. Among the many upcoming titles they highlight are:

]]> 7699 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Matt Kindt http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-matt-kindt Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:35 - Setup of interview 00:04:57 - Interview with Matt Kindt 01:33:07 - Wrap up 01:34:37 - Contact us Andy and Derek welcome Matt Kindt to the podcast to discuss Grass Kings, published through BOOM! Studios, his two current ongoing series from Dark Horse Comics, Dept. H and Ether, and his voluminous work for Valiant Comics. The guys have been wanting to get Matt on the show for years, so this interview is a long time in coming. And the conversation is quite substantive. Among other topics, they discuss the geneses of these recent series; Matt's strategies for juggling multiple storylines at once; his collaborations with Tyler Jenkins (on Grass Kings), David Rubín (Ether), and Brian Hurtt (Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon); the many titles he has written for Valiant Comics; his love of genre storytelling; the unique way he "signs" certain books at cons; and his creative direction after the groundbreaking Mind MGMT. This has to be one of the most prolific creators the guys have ever had on The Comics Alternative, and they come nowhere near covering all of the topics they wanted to discuss with Matt. But this is all the more reason to have him back on the show in the not-too-distant future. Mon, 01 May 2017 15:00:26 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "What if you set a book on fire?" Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:35 - Setup of interview 00:04:57 - Interview with Matt Kindt 01:33:07 - Wrap up 01:34:37 - Contact us Andy and Derek welcome Matt Kindt to the podcast to discuss Grass Kings, published through BOOM! Studios, his two current ongoing series from Dark Horse Comics, Dept. H and Ether, and his voluminous work for Valiant Comics. The guys have been wanting to get Matt on the show for years, so this interview is a long time in coming. And the conversation is quite substantive. Among other topics, they discuss the geneses of these recent series; Matt's strategies for juggling multiple storylines at once; his collaborations with Tyler Jenkins (on Grass Kings), David Rubín (Ether), and Brian Hurtt (Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon); the many titles he has written for Valiant Comics; his love of genre storytelling; the unique way he "signs" certain books at cons; and his creative direction after the groundbreaking Mind MGMT. This has to be one of the most prolific creators the guys have ever had on The Comics Alternative, and they come nowhere near covering all of the topics they wanted to discuss with Matt. But this is all the more reason to have him back on the show in the not-too-distant future. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:35 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:57 - Interview with Matt Kindt
  • 01:33:07 - Wrap up
  • 01:34:37 - Contact us

Andy and Derek welcome Matt Kindt to the podcast to discuss Grass Kings, published through BOOM! Studios, his two current ongoing series from Dark Horse Comics, Dept. H and Ether, and his voluminous work for Valiant Comics. The guys have been wanting to get Matt on the show for years, so this interview is a long time in coming. And the conversation is quite substantive. Among other topics, they discuss the geneses of these recent series; Matt's strategies for juggling multiple storylines at once; his collaborations with Tyler Jenkins (on Grass Kings), David Rubín (Ether), and Brian Hurtt (Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon); the many titles he has written for Valiant Comics; his love of genre storytelling; the unique way he "signs" certain books at cons; and his creative direction after the groundbreaking Mind MGMT. This has to be one of the most prolific creators the guys have ever had on The Comics Alternative, and they come nowhere near covering all of the topics they wanted to discuss with Matt. But this is all the more reason to have him back on the show in the not-too-distant future.

]]> 5861 no Manga: Reviews of Happiness and My Brother’s Husband http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-happiness-and-my-brothers-husband Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:19 - Listener mail! 00:09:41 - Happiness 00:48:25 - My Brother's Husband 01:15:40 - Wrap up 01:16:43 - Contact us On the April manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different series. They begin with Shuzo Oshimi's Happiness, the fourth volume of which has just been released by Kodansha Comics. This is a vampiric narrative that takes place in the suburbs and centers on the relationships among high school students. But don't make the mistake of thinking that this is Twilight-tinged fantasy. Oshimi's characterization is sophisticated and, in places, unpredictable, and his art style captures the interiority of his key marginalized figures. Of particular interest is Yuuki, a bully who befriends the narrative's protagonist, Okazaki, and how both characters handle their newfound vampirism once each has turned. The guys appreciate where this story is going, and Shea, in particular, is impatient in having to wait for the next few volumes. Next, Derek and Shea check out the first volume of Gengoroh Tagame's My Brother's Husband. This book is notable for a couple of reasons. For one, it is the first work of manga that Pantheon Books, a leader in major trade graphic-novel publishing, has ever released. And second, this is an all-age title by a mangaka known primarily for his gay BDSM erotic manga. It's the story of Yaichi and Kana, a single father and daughter, and their relationship with Mike, a gay Canadian who had married Yaichi's estranged brother. After Mike's husband dies, he honors his memory by getting to know his Japanese family. As the guys reveal, My Brother's Husband is a tale about relationships, coming to term with personal prejudices, and the strictures various cultures place on interpersonal behaviors. Fri, 28 Apr 2017 15:51:06 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Marginalized Figures Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:19 - Listener mail! 00:09:41 - Happiness 00:48:25 - My Brother's Husband 01:15:40 - Wrap up 01:16:43 - Contact us On the April manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different series. They begin with Shuzo Oshimi's Happiness, the fourth volume of which has just been released by Kodansha Comics. This is a vampiric narrative that takes place in the suburbs and centers on the relationships among high school students. But don't make the mistake of thinking that this is Twilight-tinged fantasy. Oshimi's characterization is sophisticated and, in places, unpredictable, and his art style captures the interiority of his key marginalized figures. Of particular interest is Yuuki, a bully who befriends the narrative's protagonist, Okazaki, and how both characters handle their newfound vampirism once each has turned. The guys appreciate where this story is going, and Shea, in particular, is impatient in having to wait for the next few volumes. Next, Derek and Shea check out the first volume of Gengoroh Tagame's My Brother's Husband. This book is notable for a couple of reasons. For one, it is the first work of manga that Pantheon Books, a leader in major trade graphic-novel publishing, has ever released. And second, this is an all-age title by a mangaka known primarily for his gay BDSM erotic manga. It's the story of Yaichi and Kana, a single father and daughter, and their relationship with Mike, a gay Canadian who had married Yaichi's estranged brother. After Mike's husband dies, he honors his memory by getting to know his Japanese family. As the guys reveal, My Brother's Husband is a tale about relationships, coming to term with personal prejudices, and the strictures various cultures place on interpersonal behaviors. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:03:19 - Listener mail!
  • 00:09:41 - Happiness
  • 00:48:25 - My Brother's Husband
  • 01:15:40 - Wrap up
  • 01:16:43 - Contact us

On the April manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different series. They begin with Shuzo Oshimi's Happiness, the fourth volume of which has just been released by Kodansha Comics. This is a vampiric narrative that takes place in the suburbs and centers on the relationships among high school students. But don't make the mistake of thinking that this is Twilight-tinged fantasy. Oshimi's characterization is sophisticated and, in places, unpredictable, and his art style captures the interiority of his key marginalized figures. Of particular interest is Yuuki, a bully who befriends the narrative's protagonist, Okazaki, and how both characters handle their newfound vampirism once each has turned. The guys appreciate where this story is going, and Shea, in particular, is impatient in having to wait for the next few volumes.

Next, Derek and Shea check out the first volume of Gengoroh Tagame's My Brother's Husband. This book is notable for a couple of reasons. For one, it is the first work of manga that Pantheon Books, a leader in major trade graphic-novel publishing, has ever released. And second, this is an all-age title by a mangaka known primarily for his gay BDSM erotic manga. It's the story of Yaichi and Kana, a single father and daughter, and their relationship with Mike, a gay Canadian who had married Yaichi's estranged brother. After Mike's husband dies, he honors his memory by getting to know his Japanese family. As the guys reveal, My Brother's Husband is a tale about relationships, coming to term with personal prejudices, and the strictures various cultures place on interpersonal behaviors.

]]> 4800 no Episode 237: Reviews of Star Hawks, Vol. 1: 1977-1978, Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special, and Godshaper #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-237-reviews-of-star-hawks-vol-1-1977-1978-street-angel-after-school-kung-fu-special-and-godshaper-1 Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:02:42 - We'll be at HeroesCon! 00:05:09 - Star Hawks, Vol. 1: 1977-1978 00:41:32 - Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special 00:54:09 - Godshaper #1 01:07:23 - Wrap up 01:08:18 - Contact us On this week's episode Andy and Derek check out the old and the new. They begin with Star Hawks, Vol. 1: 1977-1978, a new collection of Gil Kane and Ron Goulart's classic newspaper strip. As the guys discuss, this isn't the first time that Star Hawks has been collected, but this new release from IDW's Library of American Comics imprint is probably one of the best. Next, they turn to Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special (Image Comics). This is more of the Street Angel fun you've come to expect from Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca. Fans of action comics, especially the old 1970s style martial arts type, will appreciate this one-shot. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Simon Spurrier and Jonas Goonface's Godshaper #1 (BOOM! Studios). As with other Spurrier creations, the premise of this title is rather complicated, but it's not too top-heavy. The creators are able to pull off this inaugural issue with a satisfying coherency. Wed, 26 Apr 2017 14:49:53 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Nifty Looking Ladies Time Codes: 00:00:33 - Introduction 00:02:42 - We'll be at HeroesCon! 00:05:09 - Star Hawks, Vol. 1: 1977-1978 00:41:32 - Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special 00:54:09 - Godshaper #1 01:07:23 - Wrap up 01:08:18 - Contact us On this week's episode Andy and Derek check out the old and the new. They begin with Star Hawks, Vol. 1: 1977-1978, a new collection of Gil Kane and Ron Goulart's classic newspaper strip. As the guys discuss, this isn't the first time that Star Hawks has been collected, but this new release from IDW's Library of American Comics imprint is probably one of the best. Next, they turn to Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special (Image Comics). This is more of the Street Angel fun you've come to expect from Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca. Fans of action comics, especially the old 1970s style martial arts type, will appreciate this one-shot. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Simon Spurrier and Jonas Goonface's Godshaper #1 (BOOM! Studios). As with other Spurrier creations, the premise of this title is rather complicated, but it's not too top-heavy. The creators are able to pull off this inaugural issue with a satisfying coherency. Time Codes:

On this week's episode Andy and Derek check out the old and the new. They begin with Star Hawks, Vol. 1: 1977-1978, a new collection of Gil Kane and Ron Goulart's classic newspaper strip. As the guys discuss, this isn't the first time that Star Hawks has been collected, but this new release from IDW's Library of American Comics imprint is probably one of the best. Next, they turn to Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special (Image Comics). This is more of the Street Angel fun you've come to expect from Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca. Fans of action comics, especially the old 1970s style martial arts type, will appreciate this one-shot. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Simon Spurrier and Jonas Goonface's Godshaper #1 (BOOM! Studios). As with other Spurrier creations, the premise of this title is rather complicated, but it's not too top-heavy. The creators are able to pull off this inaugural issue with a satisfying coherency.

]]> 4275 no Comics Alternative Interviews: James Albon http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-james-albon Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:31 - Setup of interview 03:32 - Interview with James Albon 57:35 - Wrap up 58:31 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with James Albon, whose new book Her Bark and Her Bite comes out this week from Top Shelf Productions. James is British artist whose illustrations have appeared in The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, WIRED, the New Statesman, The Diplomat, The Financial Times, and various publications from the Folio Society. Her Bark and Her Bite is his first graphic novel, and much of the conversation is devoted to this fact and how his work as a professional illustrator informs his graphic storytelling. The book can be described as a romantic comedy, where its protagonist artist figure, Rebecca, moves to the big city and meets Victor, a gregarious and flamboyant socialite with whom she quickly becomes smitten. Complications arise when Victor receives a young dog as a gift, and the canine becomes an unwitting rival to Rebecca's affections. What follows is a series of faux pas and inanities that pits social acceptance against personal expression. In this interview, James shares the genesis of his narrative, its links to his own life experiences, and why fiction was the perfect platform for his inaugural long-form comic. Mon, 24 Apr 2017 14:16:05 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Canine Romance Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:31 - Setup of interview 03:32 - Interview with James Albon 57:35 - Wrap up 58:31 - Contact us On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with James Albon, whose new book Her Bark and Her Bite comes out this week from Top Shelf Productions. James is British artist whose illustrations have appeared in The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, WIRED, the New Statesman, The Diplomat, The Financial Times, and various publications from the Folio Society. Her Bark and Her Bite is his first graphic novel, and much of the conversation is devoted to this fact and how his work as a professional illustrator informs his graphic storytelling. The book can be described as a romantic comedy, where its protagonist artist figure, Rebecca, moves to the big city and meets Victor, a gregarious and flamboyant socialite with whom she quickly becomes smitten. Complications arise when Victor receives a young dog as a gift, and the canine becomes an unwitting rival to Rebecca's affections. What follows is a series of faux pas and inanities that pits social acceptance against personal expression. In this interview, James shares the genesis of his narrative, its links to his own life experiences, and why fiction was the perfect platform for his inaugural long-form comic. Time Codes:

  • 00:25 - Introduction
  • 02:31 - Setup of interview
  • 03:32 - Interview with James Albon
  • 57:35 - Wrap up
  • 58:31 - Contact us

On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with James Albon, whose new book Her Bark and Her Bite comes out this week from Top Shelf Productions. James is British artist whose illustrations have appeared in The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, WIRED, the New Statesman, The Diplomat, The Financial Times, and various publications from the Folio Society. Her Bark and Her Bite is his first graphic novel, and much of the conversation is devoted to this fact and how his work as a professional illustrator informs his graphic storytelling. The book can be described as a romantic comedy, where its protagonist artist figure, Rebecca, moves to the big city and meets Victor, a gregarious and flamboyant socialite with whom she quickly becomes smitten. Complications arise when Victor receives a young dog as a gift, and the canine becomes an unwitting rival to Rebecca's affections. What follows is a series of faux pas and inanities that pits social acceptance against personal expression. In this interview, James shares the genesis of his narrative, its links to his own life experiences, and why fiction was the perfect platform for his inaugural long-form comic.

]]> 3689 no Episode 236: Reviews of What Parsifal Saw, Love and Rockets #2, and Redneck #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-236-reviews-of-what-parsifal-saw-love-and-rockets-2-and-redneck-1 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Tell them the Two Guys with PhDs sent you! 00:03:38 - What Parsifal Saw 00:21:34 - Love and Rockets #2 00:48:15 - Redneck #1 00:59:11 - Wrap up 01:00:02 - Contact us This week the Two Guys give you a double shot of recent Fantagraphics books. They start off with a discussion of Ron Regé Jr.'s What Parsifal Saw, his followup to 2012's The Cartoon Utopia (the paperback edition of which has also just been released by Fantagraphics). This is the first time that Andy and Derek have covered one of Regé's books on The Comics Alternative -- they've discussed his comics before, but only as part of an anthology -- and they point out how his art requires a different way of reading. After that, they look at the latest issue of Love and Rockets. The guys never miss an opportunity to discuss what the Hernandez brothers are up to, and in this second issue of the new series they see how both Gilbert and Jaime are continuing the storylines they began in the last couple of Love and Rockets: New Stories annuals. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with the latest title from Donny Cates, Redneck #1 (Image Comics). With wonderful art by Lisandro Estherren, this is a contemporary vampire story set in East Texas (and not far from Derek). Both feel that this is a successful first issue, but Andy points out that the structure feels similar to what Cates has been doing in God Country and The Paybacks. Wed, 19 Apr 2017 14:56:39 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Land of Hopey and Glory Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Tell them the Two Guys with PhDs sent you! 00:03:38 - What Parsifal Saw 00:21:34 - Love and Rockets #2 00:48:15 - Redneck #1 00:59:11 - Wrap up 01:00:02 - Contact us This week the Two Guys give you a double shot of recent Fantagraphics books. They start off with a discussion of Ron Regé Jr.'s What Parsifal Saw, his followup to 2012's The Cartoon Utopia (the paperback edition of which has also just been released by Fantagraphics). This is the first time that Andy and Derek have covered one of Regé's books on The Comics Alternative -- they've discussed his comics before, but only as part of an anthology -- and they point out how his art requires a different way of reading. After that, they look at the latest issue of Love and Rockets. The guys never miss an opportunity to discuss what the Hernandez brothers are up to, and in this second issue of the new series they see how both Gilbert and Jaime are continuing the storylines they began in the last couple of Love and Rockets: New Stories annuals. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with the latest title from Donny Cates, Redneck #1 (Image Comics). With wonderful art by Lisandro Estherren, this is a contemporary vampire story set in East Texas (and not far from Derek). Both feel that this is a successful first issue, but Andy points out that the structure feels similar to what Cates has been doing in God Country and The Paybacks. Time Codes:

This week the Two Guys give you a double shot of recent Fantagraphics books. They start off with a discussion of Ron Regé Jr.'s What Parsifal Saw, his followup to 2012's The Cartoon Utopia (the paperback edition of which has also just been released by Fantagraphics). This is the first time that Andy and Derek have covered one of Regé's books on The Comics Alternative -- they've discussed his comics before, but only as part of an anthology -- and they point out how his art requires a different way of reading. After that, they look at the latest issue of Love and Rockets. The guys never miss an opportunity to discuss what the Hernandez brothers are up to, and in this second issue of the new series they see how both Gilbert and Jaime are continuing the storylines they began in the last couple of Love and Rockets: New Stories annuals. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with the latest title from Donny Cates, Redneck #1 (Image Comics). With wonderful art by Lisandro Estherren, this is a contemporary vampire story set in East Texas (and not far from Derek). Both feel that this is a successful first issue, but Andy points out that the structure feels similar to what Cates has been doing in God Country and The Paybacks.

]]> 3779 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Kristen Radtke http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-kristen-radtke Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Setup of interview 00:04:29 - Interview with Kristen Radtke 00:59:16 - Wrap up 01:01:39 - Contact us Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Kirsten Radtke. Her new work Imagine Wanting Only This has just been released from Pantheon Books, and it's a deeply personal speculation on impermanence, decay, and abandonment. Using as a springboard significant events from her own life -- such as the loss of a beloved uncle and a fortuitous creative discovery -- Radtke explores our sense of place in a culture that privileges newness and disposability. The book has been described as a memoir, but the guys feel that it's better framed as a meditation, a contemplative graphic essay tinged with introspection and self-analysis. Over the course of the conversation, Radtke discusses the genesis of the project, her experiences with comics journalism, and the challenges of defining the art that she creates. Tue, 18 Apr 2017 12:26:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal All Things Must Pass Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Setup of interview 00:04:29 - Interview with Kristen Radtke 00:59:16 - Wrap up 01:01:39 - Contact us Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Kirsten Radtke. Her new work Imagine Wanting Only This has just been released from Pantheon Books, and it's a deeply personal speculation on impermanence, decay, and abandonment. Using as a springboard significant events from her own life -- such as the loss of a beloved uncle and a fortuitous creative discovery -- Radtke explores our sense of place in a culture that privileges newness and disposability. The book has been described as a memoir, but the guys feel that it's better framed as a meditation, a contemplative graphic essay tinged with introspection and self-analysis. Over the course of the conversation, Radtke discusses the genesis of the project, her experiences with comics journalism, and the challenges of defining the art that she creates. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:20 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:29 - Interview with Kristen Radtke
  • 00:59:16 - Wrap up
  • 01:01:39 - Contact us

Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Kirsten Radtke. Her new work Imagine Wanting Only This has just been released from Pantheon Books, and it's a deeply personal speculation on impermanence, decay, and abandonment. Using as a springboard significant events from her own life -- such as the loss of a beloved uncle and a fortuitous creative discovery -- Radtke explores our sense of place in a culture that privileges newness and disposability. The book has been described as a memoir, but the guys feel that it's better framed as a meditation, a contemplative graphic essay tinged with introspection and self-analysis. Over the course of the conversation, Radtke discusses the genesis of the project, her experiences with comics journalism, and the challenges of defining the art that she creates.

]]> 3875 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Notes 1: Born to Be a Larve and California Dreamin’: Cass Elliot before The Mamas & the Papas http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-notes-1-born-to-be-a-larve-and-california-dreamin-cass-elliot-before-the-mamas-the-papas Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:21 - Listener mail! 00:05:50 - Translation news from Edward 00:11:49 - Notes 1: Born to Be a Larve 00:59:33 - California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas  01:32:13 - Wrap up 01:33:15 - Contact us   On this month's Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek check out to recent publications, both from publishers that they've yet to discuss on the series. They begin with Boulet's Notes 1: Born to Be a Larve, just out from Soaring Penguin Press. This is the first collection of the comics Boulet created specifically for his blog, and this initial volume includes the entries published between July 2004 and July 2005. While the guys enjoy Boulet's work, they feel that the strips may not work as well in book form as they had originally on the blog. The episodic nature of the comics could probably be better appreciated as online updates than as a bound collection. Next, the guys turn to Pénélope Bagieu's latest English translation California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas (First Second). Derek and Andy W. had discussed Bagieu's earlier book, Exquisite Corpse, on an episode about two years ago, and the latest work certainly follows up on that promise. In fact, Edward is bowled away by this graphic biography. As the subtitle suggests, it covers the life of Cass Elliot -- born Ellen Cohen -- up to the breakout of the famous 1960s quartet. The guys appreciate Bagieu's art, but they are particularly impressed by her choices of narration and her structuring of the story. Mon, 17 Apr 2017 14:09:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Life Stories Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:21 - Listener mail! 00:05:50 - Translation news from Edward 00:11:49 - Notes 1: Born to Be a Larve 00:59:33 - California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas  01:32:13 - Wrap up 01:33:15 - Contact us   On this month's Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek check out to recent publications, both from publishers that they've yet to discuss on the series. They begin with Boulet's Notes 1: Born to Be a Larve, just out from Soaring Penguin Press. This is the first collection of the comics Boulet created specifically for his blog, and this initial volume includes the entries published between July 2004 and July 2005. While the guys enjoy Boulet's work, they feel that the strips may not work as well in book form as they had originally on the blog. The episodic nature of the comics could probably be better appreciated as online updates than as a bound collection. Next, the guys turn to Pénélope Bagieu's latest English translation California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas (First Second). Derek and Andy W. had discussed Bagieu's earlier book, Exquisite Corpse, on an episode about two years ago, and the latest work certainly follows up on that promise. In fact, Edward is bowled away by this graphic biography. As the subtitle suggests, it covers the life of Cass Elliot -- born Ellen Cohen -- up to the breakout of the famous 1960s quartet. The guys appreciate Bagieu's art, but they are particularly impressed by her choices of narration and her structuring of the story. Time Codes:

 

On this month's Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek check out to recent publications, both from publishers that they've yet to discuss on the series. They begin with Boulet's Notes 1: Born to Be a Larve, just out from Soaring Penguin Press. This is the first collection of the comics Boulet created specifically for his blog, and this initial volume includes the entries published between July 2004 and July 2005. While the guys enjoy Boulet's work, they feel that the strips may not work as well in book form as they had originally on the blog. The episodic nature of the comics could probably be better appreciated as online updates than as a bound collection.

Next, the guys turn to Pénélope Bagieu's latest English translation California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas (First Second). Derek and Andy W. had discussed Bagieu's earlier book, Exquisite Corpse, on an episode about two years ago, and the latest work certainly follows up on that promise. In fact, Edward is bowled away by this graphic biography. As the subtitle suggests, it covers the life of Cass Elliot -- born Ellen Cohen -- up to the breakout of the famous 1960s quartet. The guys appreciate Bagieu's art, but they are particularly impressed by her choices of narration and her structuring of the story.

]]> 5773 no On Location: The April Visit to Valhalla Games and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-april-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comics As he tries to do every month, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about what they're reading, what they're looking forward to, and what interests them in current comics culture. For April the topic is open, so anything goes...and the resulting conversation is free-floating and casual. Among the topics that come up are local conventions, Bones of the Coast from Cloudscape Comics, getting caught up with the Marvel Universe on Netflix, Astro City, Makoto Shinkai's Your Name, the return of Rat Queens, Kyle Starks's Rock Candy Mountain, the convoluted world of Love and Rockets, the new Anne Hathaway movie Colossal, and speculations on how (and if) comics creators will eventually work Donald Trump into their stories.   Fri, 14 Apr 2017 12:13:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Catching Up As he tries to do every month, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about what they're reading, what they're looking forward to, and what interests them in current comics culture. For April the topic is open, so anything goes...and the resulting conversation is free-floating and casual. Among the topics that come up are local conventions, Bones of the Coast from Cloudscape Comics, getting caught up with the Marvel Universe on Netflix, Astro City, Makoto Shinkai's Your Name, the return of Rat Queens, Kyle Starks's Rock Candy Mountain, the convoluted world of Love and Rockets, the new Anne Hathaway movie Colossal, and speculations on how (and if) comics creators will eventually work Donald Trump into their stories.  

As he tries to do every month, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about what they're reading, what they're looking forward to, and what interests them in current comics culture. For April the topic is open, so anything goes...and the resulting conversation is free-floating and casual. Among the topics that come up are local conventions, Bones of the Coast from Cloudscape Comics, getting caught up with the Marvel Universe on Netflix, Astro City, Makoto Shinkai's Your Name, the return of Rat Queens, Kyle Starks's Rock Candy Mountain, the convoluted world of Love and Rockets, the new Anne Hathaway movie Colossal, and speculations on how (and if) comics creators will eventually work Donald Trump into their stories.

 

]]> 4436 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Michael Eury http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-michael-eury Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:19 - Setup of interview 00:04:09 - Interview with Michael Eury 01:27:46 - Wrap up 01:28:38 - Contact us "Wonderful, warm blanket of camp" On this interview episode Derek talks with the Eisner Award-nominated editor-in-chief of Back Issue magazine Michael Eury. His new book Hero-a-Go-Go: Campy Comic Books, Crimefighters and Culture of the Swinging Sixties comes out from TwoMorrows Publishing next week, and the two discuss this project's genesis and the significance of the camp cultural phenomenon. This text stands out because Eury doesn't limit himself to just comics, but instead he looks at camp from a wider vista, revealing its convergence among television, film, toys, cartoons, music, and everyday consumable products. In Hero-a-Go-Go, readers will find in-depth discussions of such subjects as Metamorpho, The Inferior Five, Jerry Lewis comics, Monkeemania, Not Brand Echh, Hanna-Barbera cartoons, Herbie the Fat Fury, Captain Action, the TV Green Hornet, M.F. Enterprise's Captain Marvel, The Cowsills, JFK and LBJ in comics, the ill-fated Harvey Thrillers, and, of course, the Batman television series. As Michael reveals over the course of this interview, Hero-a-Go-Go is intended for diverse audiences, written as both an informed introduction and a chronicle for remembrance. Thu, 13 Apr 2017 13:05:47 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Wonderful, warm blanket of camp” Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:19 - Setup of interview 00:04:09 - Interview with Michael Eury 01:27:46 - Wrap up 01:28:38 - Contact us "Wonderful, warm blanket of camp" On this interview episode Derek talks with the Eisner Award-nominated editor-in-chief of Back Issue magazine Michael Eury. His new book Hero-a-Go-Go: Campy Comic Books, Crimefighters and Culture of the Swinging Sixties comes out from TwoMorrows Publishing next week, and the two discuss this project's genesis and the significance of the camp cultural phenomenon. This text stands out because Eury doesn't limit himself to just comics, but instead he looks at camp from a wider vista, revealing its convergence among television, film, toys, cartoons, music, and everyday consumable products. In Hero-a-Go-Go, readers will find in-depth discussions of such subjects as Metamorpho, The Inferior Five, Jerry Lewis comics, Monkeemania, Not Brand Echh, Hanna-Barbera cartoons, Herbie the Fat Fury, Captain Action, the TV Green Hornet, M.F. Enterprise's Captain Marvel, The Cowsills, JFK and LBJ in comics, the ill-fated Harvey Thrillers, and, of course, the Batman television series. As Michael reveals over the course of this interview, Hero-a-Go-Go is intended for diverse audiences, written as both an informed introduction and a chronicle for remembrance. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:19 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:09 - Interview with Michael Eury
  • 01:27:46 - Wrap up
  • 01:28:38 - Contact us

"Wonderful, warm blanket of camp"

On this interview episode Derek talks with the Eisner Award-nominated editor-in-chief of Back Issue magazine Michael Eury. His new book Hero-a-Go-Go: Campy Comic Books, Crimefighters and Culture of the Swinging Sixties comes out from TwoMorrows Publishing next week, and the two discuss this project's genesis and the significance of the camp cultural phenomenon. This text stands out because Eury doesn't limit himself to just comics, but instead he looks at camp from a wider vista, revealing its convergence among television, film, toys, cartoons, music, and everyday consumable products. In Hero-a-Go-Go, readers will find in-depth discussions of such subjects as Metamorpho, The Inferior Five, Jerry Lewis comics, Monkeemania, Not Brand Echh, Hanna-Barbera cartoons, Herbie the Fat Fury, Captain Action, the TV Green Hornet, M.F. Enterprise's Captain Marvel, The Cowsills, JFK and LBJ in comics, the ill-fated Harvey Thrillers, and, of course, the Batman television series. As Michael reveals over the course of this interview, Hero-a-Go-Go is intended for diverse audiences, written as both an informed introduction and a chronicle for remembrance.

]]> 5495 no Episode 235: Reviews of Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero and the DC Hanna-Barbera Specials http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-235-reviews-of-sticks-angelica-folk-hero-and-the-dc-hanna-barbera-specials Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:21 - Setup 00:03:03 - Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero 00:28:16 - Adam Strange/Future Quest Special 00:45:10 - Booster Gold/The Flintstones Special 00:53:05 - Green Lantern/Space Ghost Special 01:04:30 - Suicide Squad/The Banana Splits Special 01:20:22 - Wrap up 01:22:14 - Contact us   This week Andy and Derek discuss five new titles. They start off with Michael DeForge's latest book, Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero (Drawn and Quarterly). While this is an unusual story, it's nonetheless one of DeForge's most conventional stories, at least when compared to many of his previous works. It's an episodic narrative about its titular character, a multi-talented 49-year-old woman who moves to a Canadian national park to escape a scandal surrounding her rich father's finances. There she befriends a bunny named Oatmeal, a moose lawyer who goes by the name "Lisa Hanawalt," a love-struck eel, a "marked" young woman called Girl McNally, dumb geese, proxy ants, a bear chronicler, and the park's wannabe reporter "Michael DeForge." Did we mention that this is one of DeForge's more conventional stories? This title began as a webcomic on Tumblr, and while people can still find the complete comic up and available, the guys strongly recommend that listeners get the new book to fully take in the physical, tactile experience. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to the four new Hanna-Barbera one-shots from DC Comics: the Adam Strange/Future Quest Special (by Mark Andreyko, Jeff Parker, and Steve Lieber), the Booster Gold/The Flintstones Special (Mark Russell, Rick Leonardi, and Scott Hanna), the Green Lantern/Space Ghost Special (James Tynion IV, Christopher Sebela, and Ariel Olivetti), and the Suicide Squad/The Banana Splits Special (Tony Bedard, Ben Caldwell, and Mark Morales). They both enjoy all four of the titles, although Derek has some reservations about the Suicide Squad/Banana Splits team-up, and Andy feels that the Green Lantern/Space Ghost one is a missed opportunity. But they spend about as much time discussing the short backups in these four specials, with Howard Chaykin's Ruff 'n' Reddy being a standout. Is that any surprise? Wed, 12 Apr 2017 15:15:12 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Reminiscing Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:21 - Setup 00:03:03 - Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero 00:28:16 - Adam Strange/Future Quest Special 00:45:10 - Booster Gold/The Flintstones Special 00:53:05 - Green Lantern/Space Ghost Special 01:04:30 - Suicide Squad/The Banana Splits Special 01:20:22 - Wrap up 01:22:14 - Contact us   This week Andy and Derek discuss five new titles. They start off with Michael DeForge's latest book, Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero (Drawn and Quarterly). While this is an unusual story, it's nonetheless one of DeForge's most conventional stories, at least when compared to many of his previous works. It's an episodic narrative about its titular character, a multi-talented 49-year-old woman who moves to a Canadian national park to escape a scandal surrounding her rich father's finances. There she befriends a bunny named Oatmeal, a moose lawyer who goes by the name "Lisa Hanawalt," a love-struck eel, a "marked" young woman called Girl McNally, dumb geese, proxy ants, a bear chronicler, and the park's wannabe reporter "Michael DeForge." Did we mention that this is one of DeForge's more conventional stories? This title began as a webcomic on Tumblr, and while people can still find the complete comic up and available, the guys strongly recommend that listeners get the new book to fully take in the physical, tactile experience. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to the four new Hanna-Barbera one-shots from DC Comics: the Adam Strange/Future Quest Special (by Mark Andreyko, Jeff Parker, and Steve Lieber), the Booster Gold/The Flintstones Special (Mark Russell, Rick Leonardi, and Scott Hanna), the Green Lantern/Space Ghost Special (James Tynion IV, Christopher Sebela, and Ariel Olivetti), and the Suicide Squad/The Banana Splits Special (Tony Bedard, Ben Caldwell, and Mark Morales). They both enjoy all four of the titles, although Derek has some reservations about the Suicide Squad/Banana Splits team-up, and Andy feels that the Green Lantern/Space Ghost one is a missed opportunity. But they spend about as much time discussing the short backups in these four specials, with Howard Chaykin's Ruff 'n' Reddy being a standout. Is that any surprise? Time Codes:

 

This week Andy and Derek discuss five new titles. They start off with Michael DeForge's latest book, Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero (Drawn and Quarterly). While this is an unusual story, it's nonetheless one of DeForge's most conventional stories, at least when compared to many of his previous works. It's an episodic narrative about its titular character, a multi-talented 49-year-old woman who moves to a Canadian national park to escape a scandal surrounding her rich father's finances. There she befriends a bunny named Oatmeal, a moose lawyer who goes by the name "Lisa Hanawalt," a love-struck eel, a "marked" young woman called Girl McNally, dumb geese, proxy ants, a bear chronicler, and the park's wannabe reporter "Michael DeForge." Did we mention that this is one of DeForge's more conventional stories? This title began as a webcomic on Tumblr, and while people can still find the complete comic up and available, the guys strongly recommend that listeners get the new book to fully take in the physical, tactile experience.

Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to the four new Hanna-Barbera one-shots from DC Comics: the Adam Strange/Future Quest Special (by Mark Andreyko, Jeff Parker, and Steve Lieber), the Booster Gold/The Flintstones Special (Mark Russell, Rick Leonardi, and Scott Hanna), the Green Lantern/Space Ghost Special (James Tynion IV, Christopher Sebela, and Ariel Olivetti), and the Suicide Squad/The Banana Splits Special (Tony Bedard, Ben Caldwell, and Mark Morales). They both enjoy all four of the titles, although Derek has some reservations about the Suicide Squad/Banana Splits team-up, and Andy feels that the Green Lantern/Space Ghost one is a missed opportunity. But they spend about as much time discussing the short backups in these four specials, with Howard Chaykin's Ruff 'n' Reddy being a standout. Is that any surprise?

]]> 5108 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Jon Morris http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-jon-morris Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Setup of interview 00:03:47 - Interview with Jon Morris 01:28:38 - Wrap up 01:30:09 - Contact us   Jon Morris returns to The Comics Alternative, this time to discuss his latest book The Legion of Regrettable Super Villains (Quirk Books). This one is a follow up to his 2015 The League of Regrettable Superheroes, a book that Jon discussed the last time he was on the podcast. Derek talks with his guest about the natural transition from weird and offbeat heroes to their villainous counterparts, the process of researching the new book, and the hard decisions he had to make in deciding what rogues to showcase. Jon also shares some of his favorite regrettable villains across the Golden, Silver, and Modern Ages as well as possible plans for similar books in the future. The Club of Regrettable Sidekicks, anyone? See where it all started! Visit Jon's blog, Gone and Forgotten, and get the inside scoop on retro comicdom! And if you're a Columbo fan, check out his sleuthy podcast, Just One More Thing. Tue, 11 Apr 2017 13:20:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Regrets, I've Had a Few Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Setup of interview 00:03:47 - Interview with Jon Morris 01:28:38 - Wrap up 01:30:09 - Contact us   Jon Morris returns to The Comics Alternative, this time to discuss his latest book The Legion of Regrettable Super Villains (Quirk Books). This one is a follow up to his 2015 The League of Regrettable Superheroes, a book that Jon discussed the last time he was on the podcast. Derek talks with his guest about the natural transition from weird and offbeat heroes to their villainous counterparts, the process of researching the new book, and the hard decisions he had to make in deciding what rogues to showcase. Jon also shares some of his favorite regrettable villains across the Golden, Silver, and Modern Ages as well as possible plans for similar books in the future. The Club of Regrettable Sidekicks, anyone? See where it all started! Visit Jon's blog, Gone and Forgotten, and get the inside scoop on retro comicdom! And if you're a Columbo fan, check out his sleuthy podcast, Just One More Thing. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:11 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:47 - Interview with Jon Morris
  • 01:28:38 - Wrap up
  • 01:30:09 - Contact us

 

Jon Morris returns to The Comics Alternative, this time to discuss his latest book The Legion of Regrettable Super Villains (Quirk Books). This one is a follow up to his 2015 The League of Regrettable Superheroes, a book that Jon discussed the last time he was on the podcast. Derek talks with his guest about the natural transition from weird and offbeat heroes to their villainous counterparts, the process of researching the new book, and the hard decisions he had to make in deciding what rogues to showcase. Jon also shares some of his favorite regrettable villains across the Golden, Silver, and Modern Ages as well as possible plans for similar books in the future. The Club of Regrettable Sidekicks, anyone?

See where it all started! Visit Jon's blog, Gone and Forgotten, and get the inside scoop on retro comicdom! And if you're a Columbo fan, check out his sleuthy podcast, Just One More Thing.

]]> 5587 no Webcomics: Reviews of Conceptual Heist, Ménage à 3, and Smash: Monstrous http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-conceptual-heist-mnage-3-and-smash-monstrous Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:22 - Catching up and con season 00:05:37 - Update on Poe and the Mysteriads 00:09:10 - Conceptual Heist 00:37:07 - Ménage à 3 01:06:29 - Smash: Monstrous 01:24:09 - Wrap up 01:26:13 - Contact us This month Sean and Derek offer a genre buffet of webcomics goodness. They begin with Jay D’Ici and Matt G. Gagnon's Conceptual Heist, a heist narrative with a unique science fiction twist. As the guys reveal, the story is solid, and the black-and-white art, accentuated with a monochromatic blue, suggests a noir tone. After that they discuss a highly popular webcomic that has been around since 2008, Gisele Lagace and David Lumsdon's Ménage à 3. Derek and Sean describe this as a cross among Strangers in Paradise, Archie, and the TV series Three's Company...but more suggestive and explicit than the latter. While the guys can see the appeal of this thrice-weekly strip, they nonetheless feel that reading its various narrative arcs over a more concentrated time period -- as opposed to experiencing this story as its pages are released -- doesn't necessarily work in the webcomic's favor. Finally, the guys wrap up with fun completed webcomic from Chris A. Bolton and Kyle Bolton, Monstrous. This is a mini-story within their Smash world, one that the Bolton brothers completed between their earlier work, Smash: Trial by Fire, and the next Smash book that will be published through Candlewick Press. Mon, 10 Apr 2017 19:44:31 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Concentrate Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:03:22 - Catching up and con season 00:05:37 - Update on Poe and the Mysteriads 00:09:10 - Conceptual Heist 00:37:07 - Ménage à 3 01:06:29 - Smash: Monstrous 01:24:09 - Wrap up 01:26:13 - Contact us This month Sean and Derek offer a genre buffet of webcomics goodness. They begin with Jay D’Ici and Matt G. Gagnon's Conceptual Heist, a heist narrative with a unique science fiction twist. As the guys reveal, the story is solid, and the black-and-white art, accentuated with a monochromatic blue, suggests a noir tone. After that they discuss a highly popular webcomic that has been around since 2008, Gisele Lagace and David Lumsdon's Ménage à 3. Derek and Sean describe this as a cross among Strangers in Paradise, Archie, and the TV series Three's Company...but more suggestive and explicit than the latter. While the guys can see the appeal of this thrice-weekly strip, they nonetheless feel that reading its various narrative arcs over a more concentrated time period -- as opposed to experiencing this story as its pages are released -- doesn't necessarily work in the webcomic's favor. Finally, the guys wrap up with fun completed webcomic from Chris A. Bolton and Kyle Bolton, Monstrous. This is a mini-story within their Smash world, one that the Bolton brothers completed between their earlier work, Smash: Trial by Fire, and the next Smash book that will be published through Candlewick Press. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:29 - Introduction
  • 00:03:22 - Catching up and con season
  • 00:05:37 - Update on Poe and the Mysteriads
  • 00:09:10 - Conceptual Heist
  • 00:37:07 - Ménage à 3
  • 01:06:29 - Smash: Monstrous
  • 01:24:09 - Wrap up
  • 01:26:13 - Contact us

This month Sean and Derek offer a genre buffet of webcomics goodness. They begin with Jay D’Ici and Matt G. Gagnon's Conceptual Heist, a heist narrative with a unique science fiction twist. As the guys reveal, the story is solid, and the black-and-white art, accentuated with a monochromatic blue, suggests a noir tone. After that they discuss a highly popular webcomic that has been around since 2008, Gisele Lagace and David Lumsdon's Ménage à 3. Derek and Sean describe this as a cross among Strangers in Paradise, Archie, and the TV series Three's Company...but more suggestive and explicit than the latter. While the guys can see the appeal of this thrice-weekly strip, they nonetheless feel that reading its various narrative arcs over a more concentrated time period -- as opposed to experiencing this story as its pages are released -- doesn't necessarily work in the webcomic's favor. Finally, the guys wrap up with fun completed webcomic from Chris A. Bolton and Kyle Bolton, Monstrous. This is a mini-story within their Smash world, one that the Bolton brothers completed between their earlier work, Smash: Trial by Fire, and the next Smash book that will be published through Candlewick Press.

]]> 5390 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Gabby Schulz http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-gabby-schulz Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:18 - Setup of interview 00:04:43 - Interview with Gabby Schulz 01:11:55 - Wrap up 01:14:04 - Contact us "The sewage of negativity I bring to comics" In an interview that is a long time in coming, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Gabby Schulz. His new collection of diary comics, The Process of Drastically Reducing One's Expectations, was recently released from Alec Longstreth's Phase Eight Publishing, and in their conversation, Gabby shares his views on the uses and misuses of autobiographical comics. And the three spend a lot of time discussing several of Gabby's earlier works, especially Sick and Monsters (both published through Secret Acres), and how the personal necessarily becomes political when exploring individual shortcomings and predilections. Gwen and Derek also ask Gabby about "Ken Dahl," his recent travels, and the experiences of living on the road. Be sure to visit the artist's Ignatz Award-nominated website Gabby's Playhouse. Fri, 07 Apr 2017 18:33:52 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “The sewage of negativity I bring to comics” Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:18 - Setup of interview 00:04:43 - Interview with Gabby Schulz 01:11:55 - Wrap up 01:14:04 - Contact us "The sewage of negativity I bring to comics" In an interview that is a long time in coming, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Gabby Schulz. His new collection of diary comics, The Process of Drastically Reducing One's Expectations, was recently released from Alec Longstreth's Phase Eight Publishing, and in their conversation, Gabby shares his views on the uses and misuses of autobiographical comics. And the three spend a lot of time discussing several of Gabby's earlier works, especially Sick and Monsters (both published through Secret Acres), and how the personal necessarily becomes political when exploring individual shortcomings and predilections. Gwen and Derek also ask Gabby about "Ken Dahl," his recent travels, and the experiences of living on the road. Be sure to visit the artist's Ignatz Award-nominated website Gabby's Playhouse. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:18 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:43 - Interview with Gabby Schulz
  • 01:11:55 - Wrap up
  • 01:14:04 - Contact us

"The sewage of negativity I bring to comics"

In an interview that is a long time in coming, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Gabby Schulz. His new collection of diary comics, The Process of Drastically Reducing One's Expectations, was recently released from Alec Longstreth's Phase Eight Publishing, and in their conversation, Gabby shares his views on the uses and misuses of autobiographical comics. And the three spend a lot of time discussing several of Gabby's earlier works, especially Sick and Monsters (both published through Secret Acres), and how the personal necessarily becomes political when exploring individual shortcomings and predilections. Gwen and Derek also ask Gabby about "Ken Dahl," his recent travels, and the experiences of living on the road.

Be sure to visit the artist's Ignatz Award-nominated website Gabby's Playhouse.

]]> 4629 yes Episode 234: The April Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-234-the-april-previews-catalog It's time to look at the current Previews catalog from Diamond, and for this month Derek is joined by Paul, the new cohost of the monthly Young Readers series. Paul has helped out on earlier Previews shows, and as Andy has jokingly pointed out, on those occasions the episodes have tended to clock in on the longish side. And indeed, that's what happens this week! But the lengthiness of the April Previews show is filled not only with choice solicits, but also with critical commentary, astute observations, and even a couple of soapbox rants. In their highlights from this month's catalog, the guys discuss offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - Briggs Land: Lone Wolves #1, Bankshot #1, Calla Cthulhu, and the trade of Dead Inside DC/Vertigo - Shade, the Changing Girl, Vol. 1: Earth Girl Made Easy and a new edition of It's a Bird... IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Clue #1, Surfside Girls: The Secret of Danger Point, and Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True! Image Comics - Crosswind #1, The Divided States of Hysteria #1, Shirtless Bear-Fighter #1, and Tokyo Ghost Deluxe Edition AdHouse - Tarantula Aftershock Comics - Jimmy's Bastards #1 and Babyteeth #1 Alternative Comics - King Cat Comics and Stories #77 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Canopy Black Mask Studios - The Skeptics and Beautiful Canvas #1 BOOM! Studios - The Unsound #1 Cinebook - Alone, Vol. 7: The Lowlands Clarion Books - Fish Girl and Lint Boy Dynamite Entertainment - Blood Brothers #1 Dover Publications - Kafkaesque Drawn and Quarterly - If Found...Please Return to Elise Gravel Fantagraphics Books - A New Low, Ripple: A Predilection for Tina, All Time Comics: Blind Justice #1, and Vague Tales Farrah, Straus and Giroux - Four Points, Book 2: Knife's Edge First Second - The Big Bad Fox and Making Scents Knopf Publishing - Rickety Stitch and Gelatinous Goo, Vol. 1: The Road to Epoli Kodansha Comics - Appleseed Alpha, Vol. 1 Lion Forge - Noble, Vol. 1 #1 and Jazz Maynard, Vol. 1 #1 Nobrow - Garbage Night Oni Press - The Sixth Gun, Book One: Cold Dead Fingers (Square One Edition), Heartthrob, Season Two #1, and Angel City: Town without Pity Sunday Press - Foolish Questions and Other Odd Observations: Rube Goldberg, Early Comics 1909-1919 Ten Speed Press - The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up Titan Comics - Normandy Gold #1 and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo-Millennium #1 Udon Entertainment - Manga Classics: The Count of Monte Cristo and Manga Classics: The Jungle Book Valiant Entertainment - Secret Weapons #1 VIZ Media - Golden Kamuy, Vol. 1, Manga in Theory and Practice: The Craft of Creating Manga, and Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 6 Z2 Comics - Murder Ballads Rutgers University Press - Superman: The Persistence of an American Icon   Wed, 05 Apr 2017 15:17:39 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Marathon Men It's time to look at the current Previews catalog from Diamond, and for this month Derek is joined by Paul, the new cohost of the monthly Young Readers series. Paul has helped out on earlier Previews shows, and as Andy has jokingly pointed out, on those occasions the episodes have tended to clock in on the longish side. And indeed, that's what happens this week! But the lengthiness of the April Previews show is filled not only with choice solicits, but also with critical commentary, astute observations, and even a couple of soapbox rants. In their highlights from this month's catalog, the guys discuss offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - Briggs Land: Lone Wolves #1, Bankshot #1, Calla Cthulhu, and the trade of Dead Inside DC/Vertigo - Shade, the Changing Girl, Vol. 1: Earth Girl Made Easy and a new edition of It's a Bird... IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Clue #1, Surfside Girls: The Secret of Danger Point, and Super Weird Heroes: Preposterous but True! Image Comics - Crosswind #1, The Divided States of Hysteria #1, Shirtless Bear-Fighter #1, and Tokyo Ghost Deluxe Edition AdHouse - Tarantula Aftershock Comics - Jimmy's Bastards #1 and Babyteeth #1 Alternative Comics - King Cat Comics and Stories #77 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Canopy Black Mask Studios - The Skeptics and Beautiful Canvas #1 BOOM! Studios - The Unsound #1 Cinebook - Alone, Vol. 7: The Lowlands Clarion Books - Fish Girl and Lint Boy Dynamite Entertainment - Blood Brothers #1 Dover Publications - Kafkaesque Drawn and Quarterly - If Found...Please Return to Elise Gravel Fantagraphics Books - A New Low, Ripple: A Predilection for Tina, All Time Comics: Blind Justice #1, and Vague Tales Farrah, Straus and Giroux - Four Points, Book 2: Knife's Edge First Second - The Big Bad Fox and Making Scents Knopf Publishing - Rickety Stitch and Gelatinous Goo, Vol. 1: The Road to Epoli Kodansha Comics - Appleseed Alpha, Vol. 1 Lion Forge - Noble, Vol. 1 #1 and Jazz Maynard, Vol. 1 #1 Nobrow - Garbage Night Oni Press - The Sixth Gun, Book One: Cold Dead Fingers (Square One Edition), Heartthrob, Season Two #1, and Angel City: Town without Pity Sunday Press - Foolish Questions and Other Odd Observations: Rube Goldberg, Early Comics 1909-1919 Ten Speed Press - The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up Titan Comics - Normandy Gold #1 and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo-Millennium #1 Udon Entertainment - Manga Classics: The Count of Monte Cristo and Manga Classics: The Jungle Book Valiant Entertainment - Secret Weapons #1 VIZ Media - Golden Kamuy, Vol. 1, Manga in Theory and Practice: The Craft of Creating Manga, and Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 6 Z2 Comics - Murder Ballads Rutgers University Press - Superman: The Persistence of an American Icon  

It's time to look at the current Previews catalog from Diamond, and for this month Derek is joined by Paul, the new cohost of the monthly Young Readers series. Paul has helped out on earlier Previews shows, and as Andy has jokingly pointed out, on those occasions the episodes have tended to clock in on the longish side. And indeed, that's what happens this week! But the lengthiness of the April Previews show is filled not only with choice solicits, but also with critical commentary, astute observations, and even a couple of soapbox rants. In their highlights from this month's catalog, the guys discuss offerings from:

 

]]> 9249 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Jon Nielsen http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jon-nielsen Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 03:03 - Setup of interview 06:30 - Interview with Jon Nielsen 43:18 - Wrap up 44:33 - Contact us On this episode, Gwen and Derek welcome Jon Nielsen to The Comics Alternative. His new book Look recently debuted at the MoCCA Arts Festival, and Jon talks with the cohosts on the eve of the event. Among the various topics they cover, Gwen and Derek ask Jon about the story's evolution from webcomic to printed form, his process in finding an appropriate publisher, the existential nature of his narrative -- something like a Waiting for Godot with cute robots -- the all-age appropriateness of his storytelling, and his broader work within the webcomics format. His popular online title, Massive Pwnage, came to an end last year. Jon is a young creator, doing some exciting things, and both Gwen and Derek were glad to get him on the podcast in early bloom. To learn more about Jon's comics, visit his website, Dark Magic Press! Tue, 04 Apr 2017 03:25:49 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Existential Robotics Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 03:03 - Setup of interview 06:30 - Interview with Jon Nielsen 43:18 - Wrap up 44:33 - Contact us On this episode, Gwen and Derek welcome Jon Nielsen to The Comics Alternative. His new book Look recently debuted at the MoCCA Arts Festival, and Jon talks with the cohosts on the eve of the event. Among the various topics they cover, Gwen and Derek ask Jon about the story's evolution from webcomic to printed form, his process in finding an appropriate publisher, the existential nature of his narrative -- something like a Waiting for Godot with cute robots -- the all-age appropriateness of his storytelling, and his broader work within the webcomics format. His popular online title, Massive Pwnage, came to an end last year. Jon is a young creator, doing some exciting things, and both Gwen and Derek were glad to get him on the podcast in early bloom. To learn more about Jon's comics, visit his website, Dark Magic Press! Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 03:03 - Setup of interview
  • 06:30 - Interview with Jon Nielsen
  • 43:18 - Wrap up
  • 44:33 - Contact us

On this episode, Gwen and Derek welcome Jon Nielsen to The Comics Alternative. His new book Look recently debuted at the MoCCA Arts Festival, and Jon talks with the cohosts on the eve of the event. Among the various topics they cover, Gwen and Derek ask Jon about the story's evolution from webcomic to printed form, his process in finding an appropriate publisher, the existential nature of his narrative -- something like a Waiting for Godot with cute robots -- the all-age appropriateness of his storytelling, and his broader work within the webcomics format. His popular online title, Massive Pwnage, came to an end last year. Jon is a young creator, doing some exciting things, and both Gwen and Derek were glad to get him on the podcast in early bloom.

To learn more about Jon's comics, visit his website, Dark Magic Press!

]]> 2863 no On Location: Talking with Creators at the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-the-sumter-comic-arts-symposium-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Setup of Sumter Comic Arts Symposium 00:05:19 - Sophie Goldstein and Carl Antonowicz 00:54:35 - Jeremy Whitley 01:32:20 - Wrap up 01:34:13 - Contact us Our Man in Sumter As listeners of The Comics Alternative know, Andy oversees the annual Sumter Comic Arts Symposium every spring, and this year is no different. And this time, not only has he organized the entire event, but he also took time out of his duties to interview several of the creators who appeared at the symposium. First, he speaks with Sophie Goldstein and Carl Antonowicz at the local Waffle House -- the sound quality isn't ideal, but the breakfast ambience is palpable -- and then he conducts an interview with Jeremy Whitley, talking primarily about his recent work with Marvel Comics. Be sure to check out today's companion on-location episode where Derek talks with several artists and publishers at Fan Expo Dallas 2017! Mon, 03 Apr 2017 14:44:13 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Our Man in Sumter Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Setup of Sumter Comic Arts Symposium 00:05:19 - Sophie Goldstein and Carl Antonowicz 00:54:35 - Jeremy Whitley 01:32:20 - Wrap up 01:34:13 - Contact us Our Man in Sumter As listeners of The Comics Alternative know, Andy oversees the annual Sumter Comic Arts Symposium every spring, and this year is no different. And this time, not only has he organized the entire event, but he also took time out of his duties to interview several of the creators who appeared at the symposium. First, he speaks with Sophie Goldstein and Carl Antonowicz at the local Waffle House -- the sound quality isn't ideal, but the breakfast ambience is palpable -- and then he conducts an interview with Jeremy Whitley, talking primarily about his recent work with Marvel Comics. Be sure to check out today's companion on-location episode where Derek talks with several artists and publishers at Fan Expo Dallas 2017! Time Codes:

Our Man in Sumter

As listeners of The Comics Alternative know, Andy oversees the annual Sumter Comic Arts Symposium every spring, and this year is no different. And this time, not only has he organized the entire event, but he also took time out of his duties to interview several of the creators who appeared at the symposium. First, he speaks with Sophie Goldstein and Carl Antonowicz at the local Waffle House -- the sound quality isn't ideal, but the breakfast ambience is palpable -- and then he conducts an interview with Jeremy Whitley, talking primarily about his recent work with Marvel Comics.

Be sure to check out today's companion on-location episode where Derek talks with several artists and publishers at Fan Expo Dallas 2017!

]]> 5836 no On Location: Talking with Creators at Fan Expo Dallas 2017 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-fan-expo-dallas-2017 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Setup of Dallas Fan Expo 00:03:54 - Robert Wilson IV 00:11:10 - Terry Moore 00:28:02 - Raechel Alexis Gasparac and Dusk Publishing 00:35:25 - Ed Brisson 00:44:49 - Joe Eisma 00:50:02 - Matt Hawkins 01:00:06 - Wrap up 01:02:51 - Contact us This past weekend Derek attended Dallas Fan Expo 2017, and there he was able to talk with several creators and publishers for the podcast. Some of his guests are individuals who have been on the podcast before -- either while at conventions or on regular interview episodes -- although some are appearing on The Comics Alternative for the first time. Those talking with Derek on this on-location show include Robert Wilson IV, Terry Moore, Raechel Alexis Gasparac, Ed Brisson, Joe Eisma, and Matt Hawkins. Enjoy, won't you? Be sure to check out today's companion on-location episode where Andy talks with a few creators at the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium! Mon, 03 Apr 2017 14:09:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Our Man in Dallas Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Setup of Dallas Fan Expo 00:03:54 - Robert Wilson IV 00:11:10 - Terry Moore 00:28:02 - Raechel Alexis Gasparac and Dusk Publishing 00:35:25 - Ed Brisson 00:44:49 - Joe Eisma 00:50:02 - Matt Hawkins 01:00:06 - Wrap up 01:02:51 - Contact us This past weekend Derek attended Dallas Fan Expo 2017, and there he was able to talk with several creators and publishers for the podcast. Some of his guests are individuals who have been on the podcast before -- either while at conventions or on regular interview episodes -- although some are appearing on The Comics Alternative for the first time. Those talking with Derek on this on-location show include Robert Wilson IV, Terry Moore, Raechel Alexis Gasparac, Ed Brisson, Joe Eisma, and Matt Hawkins. Enjoy, won't you? Be sure to check out today's companion on-location episode where Andy talks with a few creators at the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium! Time Codes:

This past weekend Derek attended Dallas Fan Expo 2017, and there he was able to talk with several creators and publishers for the podcast. Some of his guests are individuals who have been on the podcast before -- either while at conventions or on regular interview episodes -- although some are appearing on The Comics Alternative for the first time. Those talking with Derek on this on-location show include Robert Wilson IV, Terry Moore, Raechel Alexis Gasparac, Ed Brisson, Joe Eisma, and Matt Hawkins. Enjoy, won't you?

Be sure to check out today's companion on-location episode where Andy talks with a few creators at the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium!

]]> 3952 no Manga: Reviews of Ichi-F: A Worker’s Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant and Platinum End http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-ichi-f-a-workers-graphic-memoir-of-the-fukushima-nuclear-power-plant-and-platinum-end Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:29 - Listener mail! 00:07:21 - Follow up on Revolutionary Girl Utena 00:08:40 - Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant 00:33:42 - Platinum End 01:10:43 - Wrap up 01:12:16 - Contact us   This month on The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek check out two very different titles. They begin with Kazuto Tatsuta's Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant (Kodansha Comics). This is a 500+ page account of the reconstruction and cleanup in the wake of 2011's disaster in Fukushima. As the guys discuss, the text does two things at once: provides objective reportage of the situation surrounding Fukushima and reveals the author's very personal experiences  in securing and maintaining his role in the cleanup efforts. While both guys enjoyed the book, perhaps Derek more than Shea, they nonetheless wondered about Tatsuta's background as a mangaka -- "Kazuto Tatsuta" is a nom de plume, so it's difficult to determine any bibliography -- and any potential agenda (if any) underlying this work. After their focus on real-world disaster, the guys move into the realm of fantasy. Platinum End (VIZ Media) is a current shōnen series from Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, the same team behind Bakuman and Death Note. The second English-language volume was just released this month, so the guys have enough story under their belts to get a secure feel for the art and narrative. As Derek explains, the premise appears a little on the hokey side, at least at first, but as things develop the story begins to take on a life of its own, one that soon hooks you. Much of this is because of Obata's style, but there are also larger thematic issues that make this title worth exploring. The guys discourse over the text's theological import, its engagement with gender identity, and its satiric commentary on contemporary popular culture. This is definitely a series that both Shea and Derek will continue reading. Fri, 31 Mar 2017 15:32:22 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Japanese Adam Sandler? Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:03:29 - Listener mail! 00:07:21 - Follow up on Revolutionary Girl Utena 00:08:40 - Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant 00:33:42 - Platinum End 01:10:43 - Wrap up 01:12:16 - Contact us   This month on The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek check out two very different titles. They begin with Kazuto Tatsuta's Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant (Kodansha Comics). This is a 500+ page account of the reconstruction and cleanup in the wake of 2011's disaster in Fukushima. As the guys discuss, the text does two things at once: provides objective reportage of the situation surrounding Fukushima and reveals the author's very personal experiences  in securing and maintaining his role in the cleanup efforts. While both guys enjoyed the book, perhaps Derek more than Shea, they nonetheless wondered about Tatsuta's background as a mangaka -- "Kazuto Tatsuta" is a nom de plume, so it's difficult to determine any bibliography -- and any potential agenda (if any) underlying this work. After their focus on real-world disaster, the guys move into the realm of fantasy. Platinum End (VIZ Media) is a current shōnen series from Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, the same team behind Bakuman and Death Note. The second English-language volume was just released this month, so the guys have enough story under their belts to get a secure feel for the art and narrative. As Derek explains, the premise appears a little on the hokey side, at least at first, but as things develop the story begins to take on a life of its own, one that soon hooks you. Much of this is because of Obata's style, but there are also larger thematic issues that make this title worth exploring. The guys discourse over the text's theological import, its engagement with gender identity, and its satiric commentary on contemporary popular culture. This is definitely a series that both Shea and Derek will continue reading. Time Codes:

 

This month on The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek check out two very different titles. They begin with Kazuto Tatsuta's Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant (Kodansha Comics). This is a 500+ page account of the reconstruction and cleanup in the wake of 2011's disaster in Fukushima. As the guys discuss, the text does two things at once: provides objective reportage of the situation surrounding Fukushima and reveals the author's very personal experiences  in securing and maintaining his role in the cleanup efforts. While both guys enjoyed the book, perhaps Derek more than Shea, they nonetheless wondered about Tatsuta's background as a mangaka -- "Kazuto Tatsuta" is a nom de plume, so it's difficult to determine any bibliography -- and any potential agenda (if any) underlying this work.

After their focus on real-world disaster, the guys move into the realm of fantasy. Platinum End (VIZ Media) is a current shōnen series from Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, the same team behind Bakuman and Death Note. The second English-language volume was just released this month, so the guys have enough story under their belts to get a secure feel for the art and narrative. As Derek explains, the premise appears a little on the hokey side, at least at first, but as things develop the story begins to take on a life of its own, one that soon hooks you. Much of this is because of Obata's style, but there are also larger thematic issues that make this title worth exploring. The guys discourse over the text's theological import, its engagement with gender identity, and its satiric commentary on contemporary popular culture. This is definitely a series that both Shea and Derek will continue reading.

]]> 4532 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Kyle Starks http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-kyle-starks Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:44 - Setup of interview 00:03:37 - Interview with Kyle Starks 01:01:47 - Wrap up 01:02:54 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs are happy to have Kyle Starks back on the show. This time, they talk with him about his new Image Comics series Rock Candy Mountain, the first issue of which comes out next week. In their conversation, the guys ask Kyle about the genesis of this project, his collaboration with Chris Schweizer, the fascination with hobos, and his decision to set the narrative in post-war America. Andy and Derek also spend a good deal of time talking with their guest about the demands of writing and drawing for an ongoing monthly series and how that dynamic might have changed his storytelling style, previously exemplified by the original graphic novels Sexcastle and Kill Them All. Along the way, they discuss his ongoing writing for Rick and Morty, other projects in the works, and possibilities for Kyle's hobo name. Thu, 30 Mar 2017 12:32:50 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Indiana Beard? Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:44 - Setup of interview 00:03:37 - Interview with Kyle Starks 01:01:47 - Wrap up 01:02:54 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs are happy to have Kyle Starks back on the show. This time, they talk with him about his new Image Comics series Rock Candy Mountain, the first issue of which comes out next week. In their conversation, the guys ask Kyle about the genesis of this project, his collaboration with Chris Schweizer, the fascination with hobos, and his decision to set the narrative in post-war America. Andy and Derek also spend a good deal of time talking with their guest about the demands of writing and drawing for an ongoing monthly series and how that dynamic might have changed his storytelling style, previously exemplified by the original graphic novels Sexcastle and Kill Them All. Along the way, they discuss his ongoing writing for Rick and Morty, other projects in the works, and possibilities for Kyle's hobo name. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:44 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:37 - Interview with Kyle Starks
  • 01:01:47 - Wrap up
  • 01:02:54 - Contact us

The Two Guys with PhDs are happy to have Kyle Starks back on the show. This time, they talk with him about his new Image Comics series Rock Candy Mountain, the first issue of which comes out next week. In their conversation, the guys ask Kyle about the genesis of this project, his collaboration with Chris Schweizer, the fascination with hobos, and his decision to set the narrative in post-war America. Andy and Derek also spend a good deal of time talking with their guest about the demands of writing and drawing for an ongoing monthly series and how that dynamic might have changed his storytelling style, previously exemplified by the original graphic novels Sexcastle and Kill Them All. Along the way, they discuss his ongoing writing for Rick and Morty, other projects in the works, and possibilities for Kyle's hobo name.

]]> 4064 yes Episode 233: Reviews of Afar, Underwinter #1, and Helena Crash #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-233-reviews-of-afar-underwinter-1-and-helena-crash-1 This week Andy and Derek check out three recent titles for listeners with divergent, yet discerning, tastes. They begin with Leila Del Duca and Kit Seaton's Afar, an original graphic novel coming out next week from Image Comics. Both of the guys enjoyed the story, although Derek feels that the narration is unbalanced. It's almost as if the creators hadn't ultimately decided where to take their fantasy or which character's perspective they wanted to privilege. Andy feels that this "incompleteness" may be due to future plans for the story, that this may be the first installment in a series of graphic novels. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first issue in the latest series from Ray Fawkes, Underwinter (Image Comics). While the creator's art style here is reminiscent of his earlier miniseries, Intersect, the storytelling is more immediate and accessible. In what purports to be an ongoing horror series, this first issue of the initial arc does everything that it needs to do and nicely sets the stage for what's to come. Both guys are impressed! Finally, Derek and Andy strike a lighter note with Fabian Rangel Jr and Warwick Johnson Cadwell's Helena Crash #1 (IDW Publishing). This is a fun story, a futuristic tale in some unspecified world where coffee is illegal. The title character is a smuggler of the banned java, and her fearless, caffeinated attitude, along with the luchador crime boss she freelances for, makes for some wacky reading. Wed, 29 Mar 2017 16:17:17 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sailor Mouth This week Andy and Derek check out three recent titles for listeners with divergent, yet discerning, tastes. They begin with Leila Del Duca and Kit Seaton's Afar, an original graphic novel coming out next week from Image Comics. Both of the guys enjoyed the story, although Derek feels that the narration is unbalanced. It's almost as if the creators hadn't ultimately decided where to take their fantasy or which character's perspective they wanted to privilege. Andy feels that this "incompleteness" may be due to future plans for the story, that this may be the first installment in a series of graphic novels. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first issue in the latest series from Ray Fawkes, Underwinter (Image Comics). While the creator's art style here is reminiscent of his earlier miniseries, Intersect, the storytelling is more immediate and accessible. In what purports to be an ongoing horror series, this first issue of the initial arc does everything that it needs to do and nicely sets the stage for what's to come. Both guys are impressed! Finally, Derek and Andy strike a lighter note with Fabian Rangel Jr and Warwick Johnson Cadwell's Helena Crash #1 (IDW Publishing). This is a fun story, a futuristic tale in some unspecified world where coffee is illegal. The title character is a smuggler of the banned java, and her fearless, caffeinated attitude, along with the luchador crime boss she freelances for, makes for some wacky reading.

This week Andy and Derek check out three recent titles for listeners with divergent, yet discerning, tastes. They begin with Leila Del Duca and Kit Seaton's Afar, an original graphic novel coming out next week from Image Comics. Both of the guys enjoyed the story, although Derek feels that the narration is unbalanced. It's almost as if the creators hadn't ultimately decided where to take their fantasy or which character's perspective they wanted to privilege. Andy feels that this "incompleteness" may be due to future plans for the story, that this may be the first installment in a series of graphic novels.

Next, the Two Guys turn to the first issue in the latest series from Ray Fawkes, Underwinter (Image Comics). While the creator's art style here is reminiscent of his earlier miniseries, Intersect, the storytelling is more immediate and accessible. In what purports to be an ongoing horror series, this first issue of the initial arc does everything that it needs to do and nicely sets the stage for what's to come. Both guys are impressed!

Finally, Derek and Andy strike a lighter note with Fabian Rangel Jr and Warwick Johnson Cadwell's Helena Crash #1 (IDW Publishing). This is a fun story, a futuristic tale in some unspecified world where coffee is illegal. The title character is a smuggler of the banned java, and her fearless, caffeinated attitude, along with the luchador crime boss she freelances for, makes for some wacky reading.

]]> 4249 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Josh Bayer http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-josh-bayer Andy and Derek are glad to have as their guest Josh Bayer. He is one of the creative minds behind Fantagrahic's new retro-superhero series, All Time Comics. This line kicked off in March with its first issue, All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #1, and in April they'll release All Time Comics: Bullwhip #1, soon to be followed by issues devoted to other characters in its universe, Atlas and Blind Justice. Josh talks with the Two Guys about the genesis of this project and his collaboration with his filmmaker brother, Samuel. He also shares his experiences in working with Herb Trimpe on the Crime Destroyer issue -- the last art by this comics legend -- and with Ben Marra, who provides the inks. The latter also provided the pencils on Bullwhip, along with Al Milgrom on inks. Over the course of their conversation, the guys discuss the strange retro feel of the series, one that is more of a heartfelt and sincere tribute and not a campy send up. Nonetheless, All Time Comics already has its share of wacky villains, including The Misogynist, Raingod, and the Time Vampire. Derek and Andy also talk with Josh about his recent efforts to support the ACLU and Planned Parenthood in light of recent political events, taking a cue from Sarah Glidden...and then going even further. Join in on the fun with these free coloring book pages, brought to you by Josh and the good folks at Fantagrahics! Mon, 27 Mar 2017 14:33:37 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shoulder Fists and Time Vampires Andy and Derek are glad to have as their guest Josh Bayer. He is one of the creative minds behind Fantagrahic's new retro-superhero series, All Time Comics. This line kicked off in March with its first issue, All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #1, and in April they'll release All Time Comics: Bullwhip #1, soon to be followed by issues devoted to other characters in its universe, Atlas and Blind Justice. Josh talks with the Two Guys about the genesis of this project and his collaboration with his filmmaker brother, Samuel. He also shares his experiences in working with Herb Trimpe on the Crime Destroyer issue -- the last art by this comics legend -- and with Ben Marra, who provides the inks. The latter also provided the pencils on Bullwhip, along with Al Milgrom on inks. Over the course of their conversation, the guys discuss the strange retro feel of the series, one that is more of a heartfelt and sincere tribute and not a campy send up. Nonetheless, All Time Comics already has its share of wacky villains, including The Misogynist, Raingod, and the Time Vampire. Derek and Andy also talk with Josh about his recent efforts to support the ACLU and Planned Parenthood in light of recent political events, taking a cue from Sarah Glidden...and then going even further. Join in on the fun with these free coloring book pages, brought to you by Josh and the good folks at Fantagrahics!

Andy and Derek are glad to have as their guest Josh Bayer. He is one of the creative minds behind Fantagrahic's new retro-superhero series, All Time Comics. This line kicked off in March with its first issue, All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #1, and in April they'll release All Time Comics: Bullwhip #1, soon to be followed by issues devoted to other characters in its universe, Atlas and Blind Justice. Josh talks with the Two Guys about the genesis of this project and his collaboration with his filmmaker brother, Samuel. He also shares his experiences in working with Herb Trimpe on the Crime Destroyer issue -- the last art by this comics legend -- and with Ben Marra, who provides the inks. The latter also provided the pencils on Bullwhip, along with Al Milgrom on inks. Over the course of their conversation, the guys discuss the strange retro feel of the series, one that is more of a heartfelt and sincere tribute and not a campy send up. Nonetheless, All Time Comics already has its share of wacky villains, including The Misogynist, Raingod, and the Time Vampire. Derek and Andy also talk with Josh about his recent efforts to support the ACLU and Planned Parenthood in light of recent political events, taking a cue from Sarah Glidden...and then going even further.

Join in on the fun with these free coloring book pages, brought to you by Josh and the good folks at Fantagrahics!

]]> 5341 yes Young Readers: Reviews of Nightlights and The Best We Could Do http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-nightlights-and-the-best-we-could-do On this month’s episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss two new releases: Lorena Alvarez’s Nightlights from Nobrow Press, geared toward younger readers, and Thi Bui’s graphic novel The Best We Could Do, from Abrams ComicArts, an all-ages comic that will be of interest to our teen and adult listeners. They also had a chance to interview Thi Bui and include that segment at the end of the review portion of the show. Lorena Alvarez’s Nightlights, a beautiful hardback, picture book-sized comic, focuses on the early years in the life of a young girl, Sandy, who clearly has artistic ambitions and an abundance of creativity. However, Sandy also experiences doubts regarding the source of her imagination and fears about what might happen if inspiration were suddenly to desert her. Gwen and Paul love how Alvarez respects the creative process of a young artist, and they appreciate how Alvarez brings her own experiences growing up in Bogotá, Columbia, into the themes and artwork for Nightlights. For more about Alvarez’s biography and work, head over to her website. Those listeners who have enjoyed Vera Brosgol’s YA graphic novel Anya’s Ghost or Neil Gaiman’s novel and graphic novel Coraline, that features the “ghost children,” Nightlights will be a treat. In all three stories, the presence of the supernatural encourages the protagonists to think critically about their various gifts and emotional burdens. Next, Paul and Gwen discuss Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do, a graphic memoir published by Abrams Comicarts. Bui, whose family came to the US as refugees in the wake of the Vietnam War, tells her own and her family’s stories, in a narrative weaving history and reflection. Given that the book addresses issues of war and loss, Paul and Gwen emphasize that this text is probably geared more towards the upper range of the YA category. Paul praises the text for its evocative depiction of parent/children relationships, and Gwen agrees, noting that she also appreciated Bui’s focus on the refugee experience. After their discussion, Paul and Gwen play an interview that they conducted with Thi Bui about her inspiration, her process, and her work with young people at the International School in Oakland, California. Listeners can learn even more about Bui at her website. Ms. Bui also mentions an event at Oakland International High School featuring her students' comics work. She clarified afterwards that the event will be held April 14th, and listeners are welcomed to attend! Fri, 24 Mar 2017 13:42:32 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Conflicts, Ghosts, and Art On this month’s episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss two new releases: Lorena Alvarez’s Nightlights from Nobrow Press, geared toward younger readers, and Thi Bui’s graphic novel The Best We Could Do, from Abrams ComicArts, an all-ages comic that will be of interest to our teen and adult listeners. They also had a chance to interview Thi Bui and include that segment at the end of the review portion of the show. Lorena Alvarez’s Nightlights, a beautiful hardback, picture book-sized comic, focuses on the early years in the life of a young girl, Sandy, who clearly has artistic ambitions and an abundance of creativity. However, Sandy also experiences doubts regarding the source of her imagination and fears about what might happen if inspiration were suddenly to desert her. Gwen and Paul love how Alvarez respects the creative process of a young artist, and they appreciate how Alvarez brings her own experiences growing up in Bogotá, Columbia, into the themes and artwork for Nightlights. For more about Alvarez’s biography and work, head over to her website. Those listeners who have enjoyed Vera Brosgol’s YA graphic novel Anya’s Ghost or Neil Gaiman’s novel and graphic novel Coraline, that features the “ghost children,” Nightlights will be a treat. In all three stories, the presence of the supernatural encourages the protagonists to think critically about their various gifts and emotional burdens. Next, Paul and Gwen discuss Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do, a graphic memoir published by Abrams Comicarts. Bui, whose family came to the US as refugees in the wake of the Vietnam War, tells her own and her family’s stories, in a narrative weaving history and reflection. Given that the book addresses issues of war and loss, Paul and Gwen emphasize that this text is probably geared more towards the upper range of the YA category. Paul praises the text for its evocative depiction of parent/children relationships, and Gwen agrees, noting that she also appreciated Bui’s focus on the refugee experience. After their discussion, Paul and Gwen play an interview that they conducted with Thi Bui about her inspiration, her process, and her work with young people at the International School in Oakland, California. Listeners can learn even more about Bui at her website. Ms. Bui also mentions an event at Oakland International High School featuring her students' comics work. She clarified afterwards that the event will be held April 14th, and listeners are welcomed to attend!

On this month’s episode of the Comics Alternative’s Young Readers series, Gwen and Paul discuss two new releases: Lorena Alvarez’s Nightlights from Nobrow Press, geared toward younger readers, and Thi Bui’s graphic novel The Best We Could Do, from Abrams ComicArts, an all-ages comic that will be of interest to our teen and adult listeners. They also had a chance to interview Thi Bui and include that segment at the end of the review portion of the show.

Lorena Alvarez’s Nightlights, a beautiful hardback, picture book-sized comic, focuses on the early years in the life of a young girl, Sandy, who clearly has artistic ambitions and an abundance of creativity. However, Sandy also experiences doubts regarding the source of her imagination and fears about what might happen if inspiration were suddenly to desert her. Gwen and Paul love how Alvarez respects the creative process of a young artist, and they appreciate how Alvarez brings her own experiences growing up in Bogotá, Columbia, into the themes and artwork for Nightlights. For more about Alvarez’s biography and work, head over to her website. Those listeners who have enjoyed Vera Brosgol’s YA graphic novel Anya’s Ghost or Neil Gaiman’s novel and graphic novel Coraline, that features the “ghost children,” Nightlights will be a treat. In all three stories, the presence of the supernatural encourages the protagonists to think critically about their various gifts and emotional burdens.

Next, Paul and Gwen discuss Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do, a graphic memoir published by Abrams Comicarts. Bui, whose family came to the US as refugees in the wake of the Vietnam War, tells her own and her family’s stories, in a narrative weaving history and reflection. Given that the book addresses issues of war and loss, Paul and Gwen emphasize that this text is probably geared more towards the upper range of the YA category. Paul praises the text for its evocative depiction of parent/children relationships, and Gwen agrees, noting that she also appreciated Bui’s focus on the refugee experience.

After their discussion, Paul and Gwen play an interview that they conducted with Thi Bui about her inspiration, her process, and her work with young people at the International School in Oakland, California. Listeners can learn even more about Bui at her website. Ms. Bui also mentions an event at Oakland International High School featuring her students' comics work. She clarified afterwards that the event will be held April 14th, and listeners are welcomed to attend!

]]> 6407 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Brian Cremins http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-brian-cremins On this episode of the interview series, the Three Guys with PhDs -- Andy, Gene, and Derek -- talk with Brian Cremins about his new book from the University Press of Mississippi Captain Marvel and the Art of Nostalgia. During their conversation Brian discusses why he chose to focus specifically on the Big Red Cheese, what the comics meant to him growing up, and the superhero's links to nostalgia. As he points out, Captain Marvel isn't the most popular figure for critical or scholarly discussion, but the contexts surrounding the Fawcett property make it the perfect vehicle for the kind of analysis Brian wanted to bring. Gene, Andy, and Derek also ask their guest about the research that went into his book, the kind of archival investigations he conducted, the correspondences he struck up along the way, his efforts in securing a unique cover image, and his strategies for making this, in many ways, a very personal work. Shazam! Thu, 23 Mar 2017 12:34:32 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Child Is Father to the Man On this episode of the interview series, the Three Guys with PhDs -- Andy, Gene, and Derek -- talk with Brian Cremins about his new book from the University Press of Mississippi Captain Marvel and the Art of Nostalgia. During their conversation Brian discusses why he chose to focus specifically on the Big Red Cheese, what the comics meant to him growing up, and the superhero's links to nostalgia. As he points out, Captain Marvel isn't the most popular figure for critical or scholarly discussion, but the contexts surrounding the Fawcett property make it the perfect vehicle for the kind of analysis Brian wanted to bring. Gene, Andy, and Derek also ask their guest about the research that went into his book, the kind of archival investigations he conducted, the correspondences he struck up along the way, his efforts in securing a unique cover image, and his strategies for making this, in many ways, a very personal work. Shazam!

On this episode of the interview series, the Three Guys with PhDs -- Andy, Gene, and Derek -- talk with Brian Cremins about his new book from the University Press of Mississippi Captain Marvel and the Art of Nostalgia. During their conversation Brian discusses why he chose to focus specifically on the Big Red Cheese, what the comics meant to him growing up, and the superhero's links to nostalgia. As he points out, Captain Marvel isn't the most popular figure for critical or scholarly discussion, but the contexts surrounding the Fawcett property make it the perfect vehicle for the kind of analysis Brian wanted to bring. Gene, Andy, and Derek also ask their guest about the research that went into his book, the kind of archival investigations he conducted, the correspondences he struck up along the way, his efforts in securing a unique cover image, and his strategies for making this, in many ways, a very personal work.

Shazam!

]]> 5699 no Episode 232: Reviews of The Facts of Life, Black and White Diary Comics, and Anno Dracula #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-232-reviews-of-the-facts-of-life-black-and-white-diary-comics-and-anno-dracula-1 For this week's show, Andy and Derek look at two examples of life writing and one Dracula-infused alternate history. They begin with Paula Knight's The Facts of Life, one of the latest in the Pennsylvania State University Press' Graphic Medicine series. This is the story of Knight and her partner's attempts to get pregnant, but more significantly, it's a personal account of the contexts and societal expectations surrounding motherhood. After that they look at Sara Lautman's Black and White Diary Comics, December 2016 - February 2017 (Birdcage Bottom Books), a collection of black-and-white strips that episodically chronicles the artist's life over the past few months. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with with Anno Dracula #1 (Titan Comics), the next installment in Kim Newman's series of novels...this one in comics form. With art by Paul McCaffrey, this first miniseries, subtitled "1895: Seven Days in Mayhem," could stand as a solid introduction to Newman's vampiric storyworld. Wed, 22 Mar 2017 14:32:01 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal An Edna Garrett-free Episode For this week's show, Andy and Derek look at two examples of life writing and one Dracula-infused alternate history. They begin with Paula Knight's The Facts of Life, one of the latest in the Pennsylvania State University Press' Graphic Medicine series. This is the story of Knight and her partner's attempts to get pregnant, but more significantly, it's a personal account of the contexts and societal expectations surrounding motherhood. After that they look at Sara Lautman's Black and White Diary Comics, December 2016 - February 2017 (Birdcage Bottom Books), a collection of black-and-white strips that episodically chronicles the artist's life over the past few months. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with with Anno Dracula #1 (Titan Comics), the next installment in Kim Newman's series of novels...this one in comics form. With art by Paul McCaffrey, this first miniseries, subtitled "1895: Seven Days in Mayhem," could stand as a solid introduction to Newman's vampiric storyworld.

For this week's show, Andy and Derek look at two examples of life writing and one Dracula-infused alternate history. They begin with Paula Knight's The Facts of Life, one of the latest in the Pennsylvania State University Press' Graphic Medicine series. This is the story of Knight and her partner's attempts to get pregnant, but more significantly, it's a personal account of the contexts and societal expectations surrounding motherhood. After that they look at Sara Lautman's Black and White Diary Comics, December 2016 - February 2017 (Birdcage Bottom Books), a collection of black-and-white strips that episodically chronicles the artist's life over the past few months. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with with Anno Dracula #1 (Titan Comics), the next installment in Kim Newman's series of novels...this one in comics form. With art by Paul McCaffrey, this first miniseries, subtitled "1895: Seven Days in Mayhem," could stand as a solid introduction to Newman's vampiric storyworld.

]]> 4497 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Back with Peter Bagge http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-back-with-peter-bagge The Two Guys are pleased to have Peter Bagge back on The Comics Alternative. His new book Fire!! The Zora Neale Hurston Story comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly. It is another in Bagge's recent series of historical and biographical comics, following his brief biography of Isabel Paterson (appearing in Reason in 2010), Woman Rebel: The Margaret Sanger Story (2013), and Founding Father Funnies (2016). In this interview, Derek talks with Peter about the genesis of this project, what brought him to the writings and personality of Huston, the socio-political contexts surrounding Hurston's work, and his research efforts in compiling the graphic biography. Fire!! is, in many ways, a companion piece to Woman Rebel, in that both focus on iconoclastic female figures, and their stories are told through an episodic, almost snap-shot, manner of narration. Although Peter and Derek spend the majority their time discussing Zora Neale Hurston, they also cover some of Peter's other works, such as his Founding Father Funnies collection, last year's Neat Stuff boxed set, and the possibilities of a similar treatment with Hate and other Bradly family stories. Be sure to check out Peter Bagge's other appearances on The Comics Alternative: the 2015 interview at Dallas Fan Expo the 2013 interview for the blog the 2013 interview at HeroesCon Mon, 20 Mar 2017 14:30:45 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Forever on the horizon, never out of sight” The Two Guys are pleased to have Peter Bagge back on The Comics Alternative. His new book Fire!! The Zora Neale Hurston Story comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly. It is another in Bagge's recent series of historical and biographical comics, following his brief biography of Isabel Paterson (appearing in Reason in 2010), Woman Rebel: The Margaret Sanger Story (2013), and Founding Father Funnies (2016). In this interview, Derek talks with Peter about the genesis of this project, what brought him to the writings and personality of Huston, the socio-political contexts surrounding Hurston's work, and his research efforts in compiling the graphic biography. Fire!! is, in many ways, a companion piece to Woman Rebel, in that both focus on iconoclastic female figures, and their stories are told through an episodic, almost snap-shot, manner of narration. Although Peter and Derek spend the majority their time discussing Zora Neale Hurston, they also cover some of Peter's other works, such as his Founding Father Funnies collection, last year's Neat Stuff boxed set, and the possibilities of a similar treatment with Hate and other Bradly family stories. Be sure to check out Peter Bagge's other appearances on The Comics Alternative: the 2015 interview at Dallas Fan Expo the 2013 interview for the blog the 2013 interview at HeroesCon

The Two Guys are pleased to have Peter Bagge back on The Comics Alternative. His new book Fire!! The Zora Neale Hurston Story comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly. It is another in Bagge's recent series of historical and biographical comics, following his brief biography of Isabel Paterson (appearing in Reason in 2010), Woman Rebel: The Margaret Sanger Story (2013), and Founding Father Funnies (2016). In this interview, Derek talks with Peter about the genesis of this project, what brought him to the writings and personality of Huston, the socio-political contexts surrounding Hurston's work, and his research efforts in compiling the graphic biography. Fire!! is, in many ways, a companion piece to Woman Rebel, in that both focus on iconoclastic female figures, and their stories are told through an episodic, almost snap-shot, manner of narration. Although Peter and Derek spend the majority their time discussing Zora Neale Hurston, they also cover some of Peter's other works, such as his Founding Father Funnies collection, last year's Neat Stuff boxed set, and the possibilities of a similar treatment with Hate and other Bradly family stories.

Be sure to check out Peter Bagge's other appearances on The Comics Alternative:

]]> 6035 no On Location: The March Visit to Valhalla Games and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-march-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comics After a month's hiatus (due to unforeseen circumstances), the on-location episode is back! And for the March visit to Valhalla Games and Comics, the topic is completely open. On this recording Derek is joined my several of the shop regulars including Craig, Matt, and Tristan. Among the many topics they cover are the recent Justice League Vs. Suicide Squad miniseries; the latest (and one of the best) X-Men films, Logan; the news surrounding the production of Star Trek: Discovery; and lots of manga talk. In fact, from the amount of time everyone discussed Japanese comics, it looked like this might turn into the month's manga episode. Along the way the guys discuss Stephen Hillenburg (the creator of SpongeBob SquarePants) and his recently announced fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, legally permissible uses of the word "mutant," Derek's shame at being so behind on Marvel's Netflix and Fox series, and Tristan's utter dislike of children. Fri, 17 Mar 2017 16:17:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Manga and Child Hating After a month's hiatus (due to unforeseen circumstances), the on-location episode is back! And for the March visit to Valhalla Games and Comics, the topic is completely open. On this recording Derek is joined my several of the shop regulars including Craig, Matt, and Tristan. Among the many topics they cover are the recent Justice League Vs. Suicide Squad miniseries; the latest (and one of the best) X-Men films, Logan; the news surrounding the production of Star Trek: Discovery; and lots of manga talk. In fact, from the amount of time everyone discussed Japanese comics, it looked like this might turn into the month's manga episode. Along the way the guys discuss Stephen Hillenburg (the creator of SpongeBob SquarePants) and his recently announced fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, legally permissible uses of the word "mutant," Derek's shame at being so behind on Marvel's Netflix and Fox series, and Tristan's utter dislike of children.

After a month's hiatus (due to unforeseen circumstances), the on-location episode is back! And for the March visit to Valhalla Games and Comics, the topic is completely open. On this recording Derek is joined my several of the shop regulars including Craig, Matt, and Tristan. Among the many topics they cover are the recent Justice League Vs. Suicide Squad miniseries; the latest (and one of the best) X-Men films, Logan; the news surrounding the production of Star Trek: Discovery; and lots of manga talk. In fact, from the amount of time everyone discussed Japanese comics, it looked like this might turn into the month's manga episode. Along the way the guys discuss Stephen Hillenburg (the creator of SpongeBob SquarePants) and his recently announced fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, legally permissible uses of the word "mutant," Derek's shame at being so behind on Marvel's Netflix and Fox series, and Tristan's utter dislike of children.

]]> 5568 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Pretending Is Lying and The Lighthouse http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-pretending-is-lying-and-the-lighthouse For the month of March, Edward and Derek look at two very different European titles. They begin with Dominique Goblet's Pretending Is Lying, released last month from New York Review Comics. This is a creator whom Edward has read in the original French, and so some of their conversation centers on matters of translation. But more significant is the guys' discussion of Goblet's handling of time and memory, as well as the book's expressive and experimental style. And, as Derek is keen to point out, there are key passages that allude to the work of Brian Wilson! Next, the Euro Comics Guys discuss the latest English-language release from Paco Roca, The Lighthouse (NBM Publishing). They've twice discussed Roca's comics before -- Wrinkles during their interview with Erica Mena, and his contribution to the Spanish Fever anthology on last year's September episode -- and this one is markedly different. Edward comments on the story's simplicity, even it's pat qualities, while Derek is charmed by the novella-like qualities of this early work from Roca. And ever the sound effects aficionado, Edward nitpicks (but in a good way) over some of the translator's choices. Thu, 16 Mar 2017 18:00:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Edward's Nitpicks For the month of March, Edward and Derek look at two very different European titles. They begin with Dominique Goblet's Pretending Is Lying, released last month from New York Review Comics. This is a creator whom Edward has read in the original French, and so some of their conversation centers on matters of translation. But more significant is the guys' discussion of Goblet's handling of time and memory, as well as the book's expressive and experimental style. And, as Derek is keen to point out, there are key passages that allude to the work of Brian Wilson! Next, the Euro Comics Guys discuss the latest English-language release from Paco Roca, The Lighthouse (NBM Publishing). They've twice discussed Roca's comics before -- Wrinkles during their interview with Erica Mena, and his contribution to the Spanish Fever anthology on last year's September episode -- and this one is markedly different. Edward comments on the story's simplicity, even it's pat qualities, while Derek is charmed by the novella-like qualities of this early work from Roca. And ever the sound effects aficionado, Edward nitpicks (but in a good way) over some of the translator's choices.

For the month of March, Edward and Derek look at two very different European titles. They begin with Dominique Goblet's Pretending Is Lying, released last month from New York Review Comics. This is a creator whom Edward has read in the original French, and so some of their conversation centers on matters of translation. But more significant is the guys' discussion of Goblet's handling of time and memory, as well as the book's expressive and experimental style. And, as Derek is keen to point out, there are key passages that allude to the work of Brian Wilson!

Next, the Euro Comics Guys discuss the latest English-language release from Paco Roca, The Lighthouse (NBM Publishing). They've twice discussed Roca's comics before -- Wrinkles during their interview with Erica Mena, and his contribution to the Spanish Fever anthology on last year's September episode -- and this one is markedly different. Edward comments on the story's simplicity, even it's pat qualities, while Derek is charmed by the novella-like qualities of this early work from Roca. And ever the sound effects aficionado, Edward nitpicks (but in a good way) over some of the translator's choices.

]]> 4830 no Episode 231: Reviews of The Excavation, American Gods #1, and Rat Queens #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-231-reviews-of-the-excavation-american-gods-1-and-rat-queens-1 This week's episode is an exploration of surrealism and fantasy, and one guaranteed to both fascinate and disturb you. It begins with a discussion of Max Andersson's The Excavation (Fantagraphics). As the Two Guys with PhDs point out, this is a book that has been years in the making, and parts of it had originally appeared in other outlets, including Andersson's short-lived Death and Candy series. Derek enjoyed this book, as he does other works by Andersson, although Andy was less charitable in his assessment. He feels that the dream-like meandering of The Excavation ends up leading to nowhere, that there isn't much in the way of overt themes, and that it's too much like other indie comics discussed on the podcast. Next, they delve into the first issue of American Gods, a series from Dark Horse Comics that's adapted from Neil Gaiman's popular novel. Scripted by P. Craig Russell, and with art by Scott Hampton, this inaugural issue does a good job at establishing the premise and making the story assessable to those who have never read Gaiman's original novel (and both Derek and Andy have not). However, the guys do have a little problem with the heavy-handed and spoiler-filled synopsis inserted on the first page of the comic book. And finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Kurtis J Wiehe and Owen Gieni's Rat Queens #1 (Image Comics). This is the first issue in the series' second volume, and while both of the guys see the economic logic of a new #1 issue, Derek wonders about the narrative necessity of this publishing move. Nonetheless, both Andy and Derek are fans of the first iteration of Rat Queens, and they both feel that the first issue in its second volume is an effective jumping on point that could satisfy new readers. Wed, 15 Mar 2017 15:00:18 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “This is not my first detachable penis rodeo” This week's episode is an exploration of surrealism and fantasy, and one guaranteed to both fascinate and disturb you. It begins with a discussion of Max Andersson's The Excavation (Fantagraphics). As the Two Guys with PhDs point out, this is a book that has been years in the making, and parts of it had originally appeared in other outlets, including Andersson's short-lived Death and Candy series. Derek enjoyed this book, as he does other works by Andersson, although Andy was less charitable in his assessment. He feels that the dream-like meandering of The Excavation ends up leading to nowhere, that there isn't much in the way of overt themes, and that it's too much like other indie comics discussed on the podcast. Next, they delve into the first issue of American Gods, a series from Dark Horse Comics that's adapted from Neil Gaiman's popular novel. Scripted by P. Craig Russell, and with art by Scott Hampton, this inaugural issue does a good job at establishing the premise and making the story assessable to those who have never read Gaiman's original novel (and both Derek and Andy have not). However, the guys do have a little problem with the heavy-handed and spoiler-filled synopsis inserted on the first page of the comic book. And finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Kurtis J Wiehe and Owen Gieni's Rat Queens #1 (Image Comics). This is the first issue in the series' second volume, and while both of the guys see the economic logic of a new #1 issue, Derek wonders about the narrative necessity of this publishing move. Nonetheless, both Andy and Derek are fans of the first iteration of Rat Queens, and they both feel that the first issue in its second volume is an effective jumping on point that could satisfy new readers.

This week's episode is an exploration of surrealism and fantasy, and one guaranteed to both fascinate and disturb you. It begins with a discussion of Max Andersson's The Excavation (Fantagraphics). As the Two Guys with PhDs point out, this is a book that has been years in the making, and parts of it had originally appeared in other outlets, including Andersson's short-lived Death and Candy series. Derek enjoyed this book, as he does other works by Andersson, although Andy was less charitable in his assessment. He feels that the dream-like meandering of The Excavation ends up leading to nowhere, that there isn't much in the way of overt themes, and that it's too much like other indie comics discussed on the podcast.

Next, they delve into the first issue of American Gods, a series from Dark Horse Comics that's adapted from Neil Gaiman's popular novel. Scripted by P. Craig Russell, and with art by Scott Hampton, this inaugural issue does a good job at establishing the premise and making the story assessable to those who have never read Gaiman's original novel (and both Derek and Andy have not). However, the guys do have a little problem with the heavy-handed and spoiler-filled synopsis inserted on the first page of the comic book.

And finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Kurtis J Wiehe and Owen Gieni's Rat Queens #1 (Image Comics). This is the first issue in the series' second volume, and while both of the guys see the economic logic of a new #1 issue, Derek wonders about the narrative necessity of this publishing move. Nonetheless, both Andy and Derek are fans of the first iteration of Rat Queens, and they both feel that the first issue in its second volume is an effective jumping on point that could satisfy new readers.

]]> 4751 yes Webcomics: Reviews of The Great McGonagall, Sufficiently Remarkable, and The Boston Metaphysical Society http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-great-mcgonagall-sufficiently-remarkable-and-the-boston-metaphysical-society For March, Sean and Derek check out three very different webcomics. They begin with Roger Langridge's The Great McGonagall, a biographical treatment of William "Topaz" McGonagall, known historically as the worst poet in the world. This is a very new webcomic, having begun in January 2017, and in it Langridge takes an already cartoonish figure and plays it up for even more humor. As the guys point out, the artist's style is perfect for this kind of send up. Next, Sean and Derek turn their attention to Sufficiently Remarkable, Maki Naro's ongoing look at the struggles of a young artist trying to get by in New York City. Naro is one of the former contestants of Strip Search -- much like Abby Howard, whom the guys discussed back in October -- and, in fact, is how he first gained Sean's attention. As Derek reveals, this is a reality-based drama of interpersonal relationships, but one that struggles at times with the occasional pull into gag-strip formulas. Finally, and after a brief check in with Jim McClain about the progress of his and Paul Schultz's Poe and the Mysteriads, the guys round out the episode with a discussion of The Boston Metaphorical Society. Written by Madeleine Holly-Rosing and with art by Emily Hu, this is a steampunk-inspired narrative surrounding the paranormal investigations of a former Pinkerton agent, his uniquely talented colleagues, and the scientific exploits of Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Nikola Tesla, and Harry Houdini. This is the second webcomic of the month that mines history for its content, although unlike Roger Langridge's cartoon biography, this one uses the past as a springboard for its fantastical flourishes. Mon, 13 Mar 2017 15:18:29 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal An Historic(al) Episode For March, Sean and Derek check out three very different webcomics. They begin with Roger Langridge's The Great McGonagall, a biographical treatment of William "Topaz" McGonagall, known historically as the worst poet in the world. This is a very new webcomic, having begun in January 2017, and in it Langridge takes an already cartoonish figure and plays it up for even more humor. As the guys point out, the artist's style is perfect for this kind of send up. Next, Sean and Derek turn their attention to Sufficiently Remarkable, Maki Naro's ongoing look at the struggles of a young artist trying to get by in New York City. Naro is one of the former contestants of Strip Search -- much like Abby Howard, whom the guys discussed back in October -- and, in fact, is how he first gained Sean's attention. As Derek reveals, this is a reality-based drama of interpersonal relationships, but one that struggles at times with the occasional pull into gag-strip formulas. Finally, and after a brief check in with Jim McClain about the progress of his and Paul Schultz's Poe and the Mysteriads, the guys round out the episode with a discussion of The Boston Metaphorical Society. Written by Madeleine Holly-Rosing and with art by Emily Hu, this is a steampunk-inspired narrative surrounding the paranormal investigations of a former Pinkerton agent, his uniquely talented colleagues, and the scientific exploits of Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Nikola Tesla, and Harry Houdini. This is the second webcomic of the month that mines history for its content, although unlike Roger Langridge's cartoon biography, this one uses the past as a springboard for its fantastical flourishes.

For March, Sean and Derek check out three very different webcomics. They begin with Roger Langridge's The Great McGonagall, a biographical treatment of William "Topaz" McGonagall, known historically as the worst poet in the world. This is a very new webcomic, having begun in January 2017, and in it Langridge takes an already cartoonish figure and plays it up for even more humor. As the guys point out, the artist's style is perfect for this kind of send up.

Next, Sean and Derek turn their attention to Sufficiently Remarkable, Maki Naro's ongoing look at the struggles of a young artist trying to get by in New York City. Naro is one of the former contestants of Strip Search -- much like Abby Howard, whom the guys discussed back in October -- and, in fact, is how he first gained Sean's attention. As Derek reveals, this is a reality-based drama of interpersonal relationships, but one that struggles at times with the occasional pull into gag-strip formulas.

Finally, and after a brief check in with Jim McClain about the progress of his and Paul Schultz's Poe and the Mysteriads, the guys round out the episode with a discussion of The Boston Metaphorical Society. Written by Madeleine Holly-Rosing and with art by Emily Hu, this is a steampunk-inspired narrative surrounding the paranormal investigations of a former Pinkerton agent, his uniquely talented colleagues, and the scientific exploits of Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Nikola Tesla, and Harry Houdini. This is the second webcomic of the month that mines history for its content, although unlike Roger Langridge's cartoon biography, this one uses the past as a springboard for its fantastical flourishes.

]]> 6005 no Episode 230: The March Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-230-the-march-previews-catalog It's the first part of March, which means it must be time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they alert readers to this month's #trypod social media campaign and encourage listeners to share their love of The Comics Alternative by using that hashtag along with #try2guys. Next, they give a big THANK YOU to Kristin and Thomas at the Secret Stacks podcast for their recent shout-out. Then they get into the March Previews catalog, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the upcoming comics they discuss are offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - Ether, Volume 1: Death of the Last Golden Blaze, Glister, Joe Golem: Occult Detective - The Outer Dark #1, and H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories DC/Vertigo - Bug!: The Adventures of Forager #1, DC Horror: House of Secrets, Vol. 1, and The American Way: The 10th Anniversary Edition IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Saucer State #1, Drawing and Life Lessons from Master Cartoonists, and Samaris Image Comics - Regression #1, Youngblood #1, Eternal Empire #1, The Dying and the Dead #4, Nothing Lasts Forever, and User Abstract Studios - Motor Girl, Volume 1: Real Life AdHouse - Please Destroy My Enemies and Your Black Friend Aftershock Comics - Pestilence #1 and The Normals #1 Alternative Comics - The Diary of Menorah Horowitz and Resurrection Perverts, Vol. 1: Hunter's Point Bergen Street Press - Revenger and the Fog BOOM! Studios - Sombra and The Backstagers, Vol. 1 Dynamite Entertainment - Swordquest #0, James Bond: Service, and Hero Killers #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Boundless, Hostage, and Uncomfortably Happy Fantagraphics Books - One More Year, Songy of Paradise, All Time Comics: Atlas #1, On the Camino, and The Ladies-in-Waiting Fanfare/Ponent Mon - Furari First Second - Science Comics: Flying Machines, Shattered Warrior, and Spill Zone, Vol. 1 Gallery 13 - Creepshow Roundwood Books - Grandfather and the Moon and Harvey; How I Became Invisible Nation Books - Rise of the Dungeon Master: Gary Gygax and the Creation of D&D NBM - Billie Holiday New York Review Books - Father and Son Oni Press - The Damned #1 and The Damned, Vol. 1: Three Days Dead Pantheon Books - My Brother's Husband, Vol. 1 SelfMadeHero - Herman by Trade and Outburst Seven Seas Entertainment - My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness Taschen - The Airship Adventures of Little Nemo Z2 Comics - Instrumental University Press of Mississippi - Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults Quirk Books - The Spectacular Sisterhood of Superwomen Wed, 08 Mar 2017 17:57:28 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal March Madness It's the first part of March, which means it must be time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they alert readers to this month's #trypod social media campaign and encourage listeners to share their love of The Comics Alternative by using that hashtag along with #try2guys. Next, they give a big THANK YOU to Kristin and Thomas at the Secret Stacks podcast for their recent shout-out. Then they get into the March Previews catalog, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the upcoming comics they discuss are offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - Ether, Volume 1: Death of the Last Golden Blaze, Glister, Joe Golem: Occult Detective - The Outer Dark #1, and H.P. Lovecraft's The Hound and Other Stories DC/Vertigo - Bug!: The Adventures of Forager #1, DC Horror: House of Secrets, Vol. 1, and The American Way: The 10th Anniversary Edition IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Saucer State #1, Drawing and Life Lessons from Master Cartoonists, and Samaris Image Comics - Regression #1, Youngblood #1, Eternal Empire #1, The Dying and the Dead #4, Nothing Lasts Forever, and User Abstract Studios - Motor Girl, Volume 1: Real Life AdHouse - Please Destroy My Enemies and Your Black Friend Aftershock Comics - Pestilence #1 and The Normals #1 Alternative Comics - The Diary of Menorah Horowitz and Resurrection Perverts, Vol. 1: Hunter's Point Bergen Street Press - Revenger and the Fog BOOM! Studios - Sombra and The Backstagers, Vol. 1 Dynamite Entertainment - Swordquest #0, James Bond: Service, and Hero Killers #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Boundless, Hostage, and Uncomfortably Happy Fantagraphics Books - One More Year, Songy of Paradise, All Time Comics: Atlas #1, On the Camino, and The Ladies-in-Waiting Fanfare/Ponent Mon - Furari First Second - Science Comics: Flying Machines, Shattered Warrior, and Spill Zone, Vol. 1 Gallery 13 - Creepshow Roundwood Books - Grandfather and the Moon and Harvey; How I Became Invisible Nation Books - Rise of the Dungeon Master: Gary Gygax and the Creation of D&D NBM - Billie Holiday New York Review Books - Father and Son Oni Press - The Damned #1 and The Damned, Vol. 1: Three Days Dead Pantheon Books - My Brother's Husband, Vol. 1 SelfMadeHero - Herman by Trade and Outburst Seven Seas Entertainment - My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness Taschen - The Airship Adventures of Little Nemo Z2 Comics - Instrumental University Press of Mississippi - Graphic Novels for Children and Young Adults Quirk Books - The Spectacular Sisterhood of Superwomen

It's the first part of March, which means it must be time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they alert readers to this month's #trypod social media campaign and encourage listeners to share their love of The Comics Alternative by using that hashtag along with #try2guys. Next, they give a big THANK YOU to Kristin and Thomas at the Secret Stacks podcast for their recent shout-out. Then they get into the March Previews catalog, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the upcoming comics they discuss are offerings from:

]]> 6978 no Manga: Reviews of Revolutionary Girl Utena Complete Deluxe Box Set and Ghost in the Shell Deluxe Edition http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-revolutionary-girl-utena-complete-deluxe-box-set-and-ghost-in-the-shell-deluxe-edition Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:43 - Apologies 00:04:14 - Revolutionary Girl Utena Complete Deluxe Box Set 00:51:13 - Ghost in the Shell Deluxe Edition 01:21:23 - Wrap up 01:24:26 - Contact us On this episode of the manga series -- a few days later than expected -- Shea and Derek discuss two new deluxe editions of older titles. They begin with Revolutionary Girl Utena Complete Deluxe Box Set, soon to be released by VIZ Media. This is a different kind of shōjo, one that the guys don't often encounter, and an aspect that makes this title stand out is its conceptual genesis. Revolutionary Girl Utena was conceived by the creative team known as Be-Papas but written and drawn by Chiho Saito (also a  member of Be_Papas). Shea and Derek discuss the "collaborative feel" of its genesis and the unusual mix of characters, costumes, and scenarios that define the series. Next, the guys turn to a new deluxe edition of Masamune Shirow's classic Ghost in the Shell, just released by Kodansha Comics. The paperback versions of this title, and of the two follow-up volumes, are still in print, but Kodansha now has these wonderful new hardbound editions. The new Ghost in the Shell volumes stand out because for the first time in English, the story is presented in the original right-to-left reading order, they retain the author's original hand-drawn sound effects, the translation has been updated, and everything has been done under the author's supervision. Both Shea and Derek have a great time revisiting Ghost in the Shell, and they hope that Kodansha will be bringing back more of Shirow's manga -- e.g., Appleseed and Dominion -- in these nice deluxe editions. Fri, 03 Mar 2017 12:53:50 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Deluxe Show! Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:43 - Apologies 00:04:14 - Revolutionary Girl Utena Complete Deluxe Box Set 00:51:13 - Ghost in the Shell Deluxe Edition 01:21:23 - Wrap up 01:24:26 - Contact us On this episode of the manga series -- a few days later than expected -- Shea and Derek discuss two new deluxe editions of older titles. They begin with Revolutionary Girl Utena Complete Deluxe Box Set, soon to be released by VIZ Media. This is a different kind of shōjo, one that the guys don't often encounter, and an aspect that makes this title stand out is its conceptual genesis. Revolutionary Girl Utena was conceived by the creative team known as Be-Papas but written and drawn by Chiho Saito (also a  member of Be_Papas). Shea and Derek discuss the "collaborative feel" of its genesis and the unusual mix of characters, costumes, and scenarios that define the series. Next, the guys turn to a new deluxe edition of Masamune Shirow's classic Ghost in the Shell, just released by Kodansha Comics. The paperback versions of this title, and of the two follow-up volumes, are still in print, but Kodansha now has these wonderful new hardbound editions. The new Ghost in the Shell volumes stand out because for the first time in English, the story is presented in the original right-to-left reading order, they retain the author's original hand-drawn sound effects, the translation has been updated, and everything has been done under the author's supervision. Both Shea and Derek have a great time revisiting Ghost in the Shell, and they hope that Kodansha will be bringing back more of Shirow's manga -- e.g., Appleseed and Dominion -- in these nice deluxe editions. Time Codes:

On this episode of the manga series -- a few days later than expected -- Shea and Derek discuss two new deluxe editions of older titles. They begin with Revolutionary Girl Utena Complete Deluxe Box Set, soon to be released by VIZ Media. This is a different kind of shōjo, one that the guys don't often encounter, and an aspect that makes this title stand out is its conceptual genesis. Revolutionary Girl Utena was conceived by the creative team known as Be-Papas but written and drawn by Chiho Saito (also a  member of Be_Papas). Shea and Derek discuss the "collaborative feel" of its genesis and the unusual mix of characters, costumes, and scenarios that define the series.

Next, the guys turn to a new deluxe edition of Masamune Shirow's classic Ghost in the Shell, just released by Kodansha Comics. The paperback versions of this title, and of the two follow-up volumes, are still in print, but Kodansha now has these wonderful new hardbound editions. The new Ghost in the Shell volumes stand out because for the first time in English, the story is presented in the original right-to-left reading order, they retain the author's original hand-drawn sound effects, the translation has been updated, and everything has been done under the author's supervision. Both Shea and Derek have a great time revisiting Ghost in the Shell, and they hope that Kodansha will be bringing back more of Shirow's manga -- e.g., Appleseed and Dominion -- in these nice deluxe editions.

]]> 5256 no Episode 229: Will Eisner Week 2017 - Uses of The Spirit since 2005 https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/comicsalternative/ComicsAlternative-229.mp3 Capturing the Spirit of The Spirit Every year for Will Eisner Week, always the first seven days in March, the Two Guys with PhDs like to do something special and Eisner-related for the podcast. This year is no different, and for the current episode Andy and Derek have decided to discuss the many uses of The Spirit since Will Eisner's passing on January 3, 2005. And there are a lot more manifestations of The Spirit than you might think. The guys compare and contrast the various uses of this seminal crimefighter, highlighting those examples that attempt to capture the original tone of The Spirit, that deviate from the original in curious ways, and that cross over into other narrative worlds. The many titles and creators they discuss include: the one-shot Batman/The Spirit, by Joef Loeb and Darwyn Cooke in 2007 (DC Comics) the 32-issue run of The Spirit between 2007 and 2009, by Darwyn Cooke, Sergio Aragones, Mark Evanier, and many others (DC Comics) Brian Azzarello and Rags Morales's 6-issue miniseries First Wave, published between 2010 and 2011 (DC Comics) the concurrent-running The Spirit: First Wave series by Mark Schultz, David Hine, and others, going for 17 issues from 2010-2011 (DC Comics) Mark Waid's 4-issue miniseries Rocketeer/Spirit: Pulp Friction, illustrated by various artists and released in 2013 (IDW Publishing) Will Eisner's The Spirit by Matt Wagner and Dan Schkade, running for 12 issues between 2015 and 2016 (Dynamite Entertainment) the recent first issue of Francesco Francavilla's Will Eisner's The Spirit: The Corpse-Makers (Dynamite Entertainment) and Joe Staton and Mike Curtis's current Dick Tracy strip and its team-up with The Spirit (Tribune Company). There is a lot packed into this episode -- you'll hear plenty about Ebony White, Commissioner and Ellen Dolan, Silk Satin, Mister Carrion, Sand Serif, The Octopus, and, of course, P'Gell -- but, thankfully, almost no mention of the disastrous 2008 film. It's all about the comics. Check out the various The Spirit titles discussed in this special episode:   Wed, 01 Mar 2017 14:28:31 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Capturing the Spirit of The Spirit Capturing the Spirit of The Spirit Every year for Will Eisner Week, always the first seven days in March, the Two Guys with PhDs like to do something special and Eisner-related for the podcast. This year is no different, and for the current episode Andy and Derek have decided to discuss the many uses of The Spirit since Will Eisner's passing on January 3, 2005. And there are a lot more manifestations of The Spirit than you might think. The guys compare and contrast the various uses of this seminal crimefighter, highlighting those examples that attempt to capture the original tone of The Spirit, that deviate from the original in curious ways, and that cross over into other narrative worlds. The many titles and creators they discuss include: the one-shot Batman/The Spirit, by Joef Loeb and Darwyn Cooke in 2007 (DC Comics) the 32-issue run of The Spirit between 2007 and 2009, by Darwyn Cooke, Sergio Aragones, Mark Evanier, and many others (DC Comics) Brian Azzarello and Rags Morales's 6-issue miniseries First Wave, published between 2010 and 2011 (DC Comics) the concurrent-running The Spirit: First Wave series by Mark Schultz, David Hine, and others, going for 17 issues from 2010-2011 (DC Comics) Mark Waid's 4-issue miniseries Rocketeer/Spirit: Pulp Friction, illustrated by various artists and released in 2013 (IDW Publishing) Will Eisner's The Spirit by Matt Wagner and Dan Schkade, running for 12 issues between 2015 and 2016 (Dynamite Entertainment) the recent first issue of Francesco Francavilla's Will Eisner's The Spirit: The Corpse-Makers (Dynamite Entertainment) and Joe Staton and Mike Curtis's current Dick Tracy strip and its team-up with The Spirit (Tribune Company). There is a lot packed into this episode -- you'll hear plenty about Ebony White, Commissioner and Ellen Dolan, Silk Satin, Mister Carrion, Sand Serif, The Octopus, and, of course, P'Gell -- but, thankfully, almost no mention of the disastrous 2008 film. It's all about the comics. Check out the various The Spirit titles discussed in this special episode:   Capturing the Spirit of The Spirit

Every year for Will Eisner Week, always the first seven days in March, the Two Guys with PhDs like to do something special and Eisner-related for the podcast. This year is no different, and for the current episode Andy and Derek have decided to discuss the many uses of The Spirit since Will Eisner's passing on January 3, 2005. And there are a lot more manifestations of The Spirit than you might think. The guys compare and contrast the various uses of this seminal crimefighter, highlighting those examples that attempt to capture the original tone of The Spirit, that deviate from the original in curious ways, and that cross over into other narrative worlds. The many titles and creators they discuss include:

  • the one-shot Batman/The Spirit, by Joef Loeb and Darwyn Cooke in 2007 (DC Comics)
  • the 32-issue run of The Spirit between 2007 and 2009, by Darwyn Cooke, Sergio Aragones, Mark Evanier, and many others (DC Comics)
  • Brian Azzarello and Rags Morales's 6-issue miniseries First Wave, published between 2010 and 2011 (DC Comics)
  • the concurrent-running The Spirit: First Wave series by Mark Schultz, David Hine, and others, going for 17 issues from 2010-2011 (DC Comics)
  • Mark Waid's 4-issue miniseries Rocketeer/Spirit: Pulp Friction, illustrated by various artists and released in 2013 (IDW Publishing)
  • Will Eisner's The Spirit by Matt Wagner and Dan Schkade, running for 12 issues between 2015 and 2016 (Dynamite Entertainment)
  • the recent first issue of Francesco Francavilla's Will Eisner's The Spirit: The Corpse-Makers (Dynamite Entertainment)
  • and Joe Staton and Mike Curtis's current Dick Tracy strip and its team-up with The Spirit (Tribune Company).
There is a lot packed into this episode -- you'll hear plenty about Ebony White, Commissioner and Ellen Dolan, Silk Satin, Mister Carrion, Sand Serif, The Octopus, and, of course, P'Gell -- but, thankfully, almost no mention of the disastrous 2008 film. It's all about the comics.

Check out the various The Spirit titles discussed in this special episode:

 ]]> 5372 no Episode 228: Reviews of <i>Scooter Girl</i> and <i>My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Vol. 1</i> http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-228-reviews-of-scooter-girl-and-my-favorite-thing-is-monsters Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - The Blubber report 00:10:51 - Scooter Girl 00:44:42 - My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Vol. 1 01:30:15 - Wrap up 01:31:35 - Contact us Mods and Monsters On this week's episode the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics do deep dives into two recent, and very different, publications. They begin with Chynna Clugston Flores's Scooter Girl, just released from Image Comics. This is a brand new color edition of a six-issue black-and-white series originally published by Oni Press is 2003-2004, and then collected as a trade in 2004. Derek describes this it as an adult Archie, and throughout their discussion the guys make reference to the series that Chynna Clugston Flores is perhaps best known for, Blue Monday. As is evident in the recent publication, her writing is heavily infused with music and pop references -- specifically, mod culture and the mod revival during the 1970s and early 1980s -- and her art has a manga flair. As Andy and Derek point out, much of the appeal of Scooter Girl is the author's ability to take a milieu out of time and set it in a time and place where in never really existed. Next, the Two Guys spend a lot of time discussing Emil Ferris's My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Vol. 1 (Fantagraphics). This is a phenomenal new work from an artist that neither Andy nor Derek knew about until the release of Resist!, to which Ferris contributed a story. The range and depth of this narrative is truly impressive, and as the guys make clear, it's a text that requires serious research and sustained analysis. The storytelling is ambitious and multilayered, its engagement with identity and marginalized cultures is sophisticated, its art style is unlike any other, and its treatment of late 1960s horror culture is thematically resonant. In short, this is one of the most astounding works that Derek and Andy have encountered so far this year. However, as much as the guys agree on this book's significance, they disagree on what constitutes the narrative's turning point. On one occasion in their discussion, Derek describes a particular illustration that Andy feels is a spoiler and could potentially diminish the emotional impact of the story. Derek disagrees, and the guys go back and forth over role of Ferris's art in establishing the text's climax (or climaxes). As their debate demonstrates, My Favorite Thing Is Monsters is a richly textured work that should generate future analysis. And the guys eagerly await the second volume, which is due out in the fall. Check out the titles discussed in this episode:     Wed, 22 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mods and Monsters Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - The Blubber report 00:10:51 - Scooter Girl 00:44:42 - My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Vol. 1 01:30:15 - Wrap up 01:31:35 - Contact us Mods and Monsters On this week's episode the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics do deep dives into two recent, and very different, publications. They begin with Chynna Clugston Flores's Scooter Girl, just released from Image Comics. This is a brand new color edition of a six-issue black-and-white series originally published by Oni Press is 2003-2004, and then collected as a trade in 2004. Derek describes this it as an adult Archie, and throughout their discussion the guys make reference to the series that Chynna Clugston Flores is perhaps best known for, Blue Monday. As is evident in the recent publication, her writing is heavily infused with music and pop references -- specifically, mod culture and the mod revival during the 1970s and early 1980s -- and her art has a manga flair. As Andy and Derek point out, much of the appeal of Scooter Girl is the author's ability to take a milieu out of time and set it in a time and place where in never really existed. Next, the Two Guys spend a lot of time discussing Emil Ferris's My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Vol. 1 (Fantagraphics). This is a phenomenal new work from an artist that neither Andy nor Derek knew about until the release of Resist!, to which Ferris contributed a story. The range and depth of this narrative is truly impressive, and as the guys make clear, it's a text that requires serious research and sustained analysis. The storytelling is ambitious and multilayered, its engagement with identity and marginalized cultures is sophisticated, its art style is unlike any other, and its treatment of late 1960s horror culture is thematically resonant. In short, this is one of the most astounding works that Derek and Andy have encountered so far this year. However, as much as the guys agree on this book's significance, they disagree on what constitutes the narrative's turning point. On one occasion in their discussion, Derek describes a particular illustration that Andy feels is a spoiler and could potentially diminish the emotional impact of the story. Derek disagrees, and the guys go back and forth over role of Ferris's art in establishing the text's climax (or climaxes). As their debate demonstrates, My Favorite Thing Is Monsters is a richly textured work that should generate future analysis. And the guys eagerly await the second volume, which is due out in the fall. Check out the titles discussed in this episode:     Time Codes:

Mods and Monsters

On this week's episode the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics do deep dives into two recent, and very different, publications. They begin with Chynna Clugston Flores's Scooter Girl, just released from Image Comics. This is a brand new color edition of a six-issue black-and-white series originally published by Oni Press is 2003-2004, and then collected as a trade in 2004. Derek describes this it as an adult Archie, and throughout their discussion the guys make reference to the series that Chynna Clugston Flores is perhaps best known for, Blue Monday. As is evident in the recent publication, her writing is heavily infused with music and pop references -- specifically, mod culture and the mod revival during the 1970s and early 1980s -- and her art has a manga flair. As Andy and Derek point out, much of the appeal of Scooter Girl is the author's ability to take a milieu out of time and set it in a time and place where in never really existed.

Next, the Two Guys spend a lot of time discussing Emil Ferris's My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, Vol. 1 (Fantagraphics). This is a phenomenal new work from an artist that neither Andy nor Derek knew about until the release of Resist!, to which Ferris contributed a story. The range and depth of this narrative is truly impressive, and as the guys make clear, it's a text that requires serious research and sustained analysis. The storytelling is ambitious and multilayered, its engagement with identity and marginalized cultures is sophisticated, its art style is unlike any other, and its treatment of late 1960s horror culture is thematically resonant. In short, this is one of the most astounding works that Derek and Andy have encountered so far this year. However, as much as the guys agree on this book's significance, they disagree on what constitutes the narrative's turning point. On one occasion in their discussion, Derek describes a particular illustration that Andy feels is a spoiler and could potentially diminish the emotional impact of the story. Derek disagrees, and the guys go back and forth over role of Ferris's art in establishing the text's climax (or climaxes). As their debate demonstrates, My Favorite Thing Is Monsters is a richly textured work that should generate future analysis. And the guys eagerly await the second volume, which is due out in the fall.

Check out the titles discussed in this episode:

   

]]> 5684 no Euro Comics: Reviews of <i>Little Tulip</i>, <i>Billy Budd, KGB</i>, <i>The Magician's Wife</i>, and <i>The Boys of Sheriff Street</i> http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-little-tulip-billy-budd-kgb-the-magicians-wife-and-the-boys-of-sheriff-street Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:17 - Checking in 00:08:31 - Charyn and Boucq's Little Tulip, Billy Budd, KGB, and The Magician's Wife 00:57:42 - Charyn and Loustal's The Boys of Sheriff Street 01:15:40 - Wrap up 01:17:02 - Contact us A Deep Charyn Dive This month on the Euro Comics series Edward and Derek look at four BD, all written by Jerome Charyn and all released by Dover Publications. First they discuss three collaborations with François Boucq: Little Tulip, Billy Budd, KGB, and The Magician's Wife. These were originally published in French between 1987 and 2014, but they've been available in English translations over the past seventeen months (the most recent, Little Tulip, coming out this past December). They also explore The Boys of Sheriff Street, Charyn's project with Jacques de Loustal that was translated and published by Dover in July 2016. Over the course of their conversation Derek and Edward investigate Charyn's methods of storytelling, finding similarities and thematic links among the four titles, and they discuss the different ways in which Boucq's and Loustal's styles bring different resonances to their respective narratives. Check out Jerome Charyn's bandes dessinées: Fri, 17 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Deep Charyn Dive Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:03:17 - Checking in 00:08:31 - Charyn and Boucq's Little Tulip, Billy Budd, KGB, and The Magician's Wife 00:57:42 - Charyn and Loustal's The Boys of Sheriff Street 01:15:40 - Wrap up 01:17:02 - Contact us A Deep Charyn Dive This month on the Euro Comics series Edward and Derek look at four BD, all written by Jerome Charyn and all released by Dover Publications. First they discuss three collaborations with François Boucq: Little Tulip, Billy Budd, KGB, and The Magician's Wife. These were originally published in French between 1987 and 2014, but they've been available in English translations over the past seventeen months (the most recent, Little Tulip, coming out this past December). They also explore The Boys of Sheriff Street, Charyn's project with Jacques de Loustal that was translated and published by Dover in July 2016. Over the course of their conversation Derek and Edward investigate Charyn's methods of storytelling, finding similarities and thematic links among the four titles, and they discuss the different ways in which Boucq's and Loustal's styles bring different resonances to their respective narratives. Check out Jerome Charyn's bandes dessinées: Time Codes:

A Deep Charyn Dive

This month on the Euro Comics series Edward and Derek look at four BD, all written by Jerome Charyn and all released by Dover Publications. First they discuss three collaborations with François Boucq: Little Tulip, Billy Budd, KGB, and The Magician's Wife. These were originally published in French between 1987 and 2014, but they've been available in English translations over the past seventeen months (the most recent, Little Tulip, coming out this past December). They also explore The Boys of Sheriff Street, Charyn's project with Jacques de Loustal that was translated and published by Dover in July 2016. Over the course of their conversation Derek and Edward investigate Charyn's methods of storytelling, finding similarities and thematic links among the four titles, and they discuss the different ways in which Boucq's and Loustal's styles bring different resonances to their respective narratives.

Check out Jerome Charyn's bandes dessinées:

]]> 4830 no Episode 227: Reviews of <i>Untitled Ape's Epic Adventure</i>, <i>Blood Blister</i> #1, and <i>The Belfry</i> http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-227-reviews-of-untitled-apes-epic-adventure-blood-blister-1-and-the-belfry Time Codes: 00:30 - Introduction 02:43 - Patreon and podcast patrons! 07:03 - Untitled Ape's Epic Adventure 27:40 - Blood Blister #1 44:03 - The Belfry 56:22 - Wrap up 57:09 - Contact us Bark-Free   This week the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three very different titles. They begin with Steven Tillotson's Untitled Ape's Epic Adventure (Avery Hill Publishing), a different kind of quest narrative that blends the anthropomorphic and the surreal. After that, they look at Phil Hester and Tony Harris's Blood Blister #1, the latest serial offering from AfterShock Comics. And finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with The Belfry (Image Comics), a one-shot horror title from Gabriel Hardman. Check out the titles and creators discussed in this episode:   Wed, 15 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bark-Free Time Codes: 00:30 - Introduction 02:43 - Patreon and podcast patrons! 07:03 - Untitled Ape's Epic Adventure 27:40 - Blood Blister #1 44:03 - The Belfry 56:22 - Wrap up 57:09 - Contact us Bark-Free   This week the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three very different titles. They begin with Steven Tillotson's Untitled Ape's Epic Adventure (Avery Hill Publishing), a different kind of quest narrative that blends the anthropomorphic and the surreal. After that, they look at Phil Hester and Tony Harris's Blood Blister #1, the latest serial offering from AfterShock Comics. And finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with The Belfry (Image Comics), a one-shot horror title from Gabriel Hardman. Check out the titles and creators discussed in this episode:   Time Codes:

Bark-Free

 

This week the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three very different titles. They begin with Steven Tillotson's Untitled Ape's Epic Adventure (Avery Hill Publishing), a different kind of quest narrative that blends the anthropomorphic and the surreal. After that, they look at Phil Hester and Tony Harris's Blood Blister #1, the latest serial offering from AfterShock Comics. And finally, Andy and Derek wrap up with The Belfry (Image Comics), a one-shot horror title from Gabriel Hardman.

Check out the titles and creators discussed in this episode:

 ]]> 3653 no Webcomics: Reviews of <i>The Specialists</i>, <i>Hominids</i>, and <i>The Last Saturday</i> http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-specialists-hominids-and-the-last-saturday Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Setup of episode 00:03:50 - The Specialists 00:32:17 - Hominids 01:01:33 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:16:16 - The Last Saturday 01:38:20 - Wrap up 01:39:52 - Contact us February Fun For the month of February, Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics. They begin with Al Fukalek and Shawn Gustafson's The Specialists, an alternate history superhero narrative set in the mid-1940s, with an undefeated Germany flexing its might with its own team of superpowered individuals, Die Übermenschen. The United States fights back with The Specialists, a diverse collection of heroes that is, at times, more propaganda than powered. Next, the guys look at what is arguably the highlight of this month's episode, Jordan Kotzebue's Hominids. This fantasy adventure is set in world populated by varied creatures, the central of which are a race of jungle dwellers. This is a tale with complex moral undertones, but whose message isn't overbearing or preachy. Plus, Kotzebue's art is outstanding. After a brief check-in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz -- their Poe and the Mysteriads was launched just last month -- Sean and Derek turn to the last webcomic of the month. Chris Ware's  The Last Saturday appeared in The Guardian during the last half of 2014 and into September 2015, and the guys discuss the ways in which Ware employs the webcomic format. In fact, they both feel that this story never really utilizes the unique qualities of the platform. We could get the same effect in print. Still, this is an engaging narrative whose topic and style should be familiar to any Chris Ware fan. Check out the books by creators discussed on this episode:   Mon, 13 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal February Fun Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Setup of episode 00:03:50 - The Specialists 00:32:17 - Hominids 01:01:33 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:16:16 - The Last Saturday 01:38:20 - Wrap up 01:39:52 - Contact us February Fun For the month of February, Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics. They begin with Al Fukalek and Shawn Gustafson's The Specialists, an alternate history superhero narrative set in the mid-1940s, with an undefeated Germany flexing its might with its own team of superpowered individuals, Die Übermenschen. The United States fights back with The Specialists, a diverse collection of heroes that is, at times, more propaganda than powered. Next, the guys look at what is arguably the highlight of this month's episode, Jordan Kotzebue's Hominids. This fantasy adventure is set in world populated by varied creatures, the central of which are a race of jungle dwellers. This is a tale with complex moral undertones, but whose message isn't overbearing or preachy. Plus, Kotzebue's art is outstanding. After a brief check-in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz -- their Poe and the Mysteriads was launched just last month -- Sean and Derek turn to the last webcomic of the month. Chris Ware's  The Last Saturday appeared in The Guardian during the last half of 2014 and into September 2015, and the guys discuss the ways in which Ware employs the webcomic format. In fact, they both feel that this story never really utilizes the unique qualities of the platform. We could get the same effect in print. Still, this is an engaging narrative whose topic and style should be familiar to any Chris Ware fan. Check out the books by creators discussed on this episode:   Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:03:03 - Setup of episode
  • 00:03:50 - The Specialists
  • 00:32:17 - Hominids
  • 01:01:33 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz
  • 01:16:16 - The Last Saturday
  • 01:38:20 - Wrap up
  • 01:39:52 - Contact us

February Fun

For the month of February, Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics. They begin with Al Fukalek and Shawn Gustafson's The Specialists, an alternate history superhero narrative set in the mid-1940s, with an undefeated Germany flexing its might with its own team of superpowered individuals, Die Übermenschen. The United States fights back with The Specialists, a diverse collection of heroes that is, at times, more propaganda than powered.

Next, the guys look at what is arguably the highlight of this month's episode, Jordan Kotzebue's Hominids. This fantasy adventure is set in world populated by varied creatures, the central of which are a race of jungle dwellers. This is a tale with complex moral undertones, but whose message isn't overbearing or preachy. Plus, Kotzebue's art is outstanding.

After a brief check-in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz -- their Poe and the Mysteriads was launched just last month -- Sean and Derek turn to the last webcomic of the month. Chris Ware's  The Last Saturday appeared in The Guardian during the last half of 2014 and into September 2015, and the guys discuss the ways in which Ware employs the webcomic format. In fact, they both feel that this story never really utilizes the unique qualities of the platform. We could get the same effect in print. Still, this is an engaging narrative whose topic and style should be familiar to any Chris Ware fan.

Check out the books by creators discussed on this episode:

 ]]> 6189 no Episode 226: The February <i>Previews</i> Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-226-the-february-previews-catalog Hobos! It's that time of the month, and on this week's regular episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek take a look at the February Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they update everyone on current comics news and podcast updates, as well as share listener mail. Then they get into the current Previews catalog, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the upcoming comics they discuss are offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - The Shaolin Cowboy: Who'll Stop the Reign? #1, The EC Archives: Crime SuspenStories Vol. 3, The Adventures of Superhero Girl: Expanded Edition, The Life and Times of Martha Washington in the Twenty-First Century, and Too Much Coffee Man Omnibus Plus DC/Vertigo - The Books of Magic Book One and Free Country: A Tale of the Children's Crusade IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Home Time: Book One, Nate Powell's Omnibox, Real Science Adventures #1, The Rocketeer: High-Flying Adventures, Lost Planet, and Red Range: A Wild Western Adventure Image Comics - Black Cloud #1, Redneck #1, Rock Candy Mountain #1, A.D.: After Death, Saga Book Two Deluxe, and Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special Aftershock Comics - Eleanor & the Egret #1 Albatross Funnybooks - 'Namwolf #1 Alternative Comics - Slasher #1 and Violence Valley Andrews McMeel - Lunarbaboon: The Daily Life of Parenthood Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Babybel Wax Bodysuit BOOM! Studios - Godshaper #1 Dynamite Entertainment - The Greatest Adventure #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #20 and Kitaro and The Great Tanuki War Fanfare/Ponent Mon - Face Fantagraphics Books - Zanardi, What Parsifal Saw, All Time Comics: Bullwhip #1, and Purgatory First Second - The Nameless City, Vol. 2: The Stone Heart Kodansha Comics - Happiness, Vol. 4 NBM - Look Oni Press - Brik Pantheon Books - Imagine Wanting Only This SelfMadeHero - Josephine Baker Toon Books - Something's Fishy Uncivilized Books - Everything Is Flammable University Press of Mississippi - paperback editions of Asian Comics and Bending Steel:  Modernity and the American Superhero Preorder your copies of some of the titles mentioned in this episode:   Wed, 08 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hobos! Hobos! It's that time of the month, and on this week's regular episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek take a look at the February Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they update everyone on current comics news and podcast updates, as well as share listener mail. Then they get into the current Previews catalog, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the upcoming comics they discuss are offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - The Shaolin Cowboy: Who'll Stop the Reign? #1, The EC Archives: Crime SuspenStories Vol. 3, The Adventures of Superhero Girl: Expanded Edition, The Life and Times of Martha Washington in the Twenty-First Century, and Too Much Coffee Man Omnibus Plus DC/Vertigo - The Books of Magic Book One and Free Country: A Tale of the Children's Crusade IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Home Time: Book One, Nate Powell's Omnibox, Real Science Adventures #1, The Rocketeer: High-Flying Adventures, Lost Planet, and Red Range: A Wild Western Adventure Image Comics - Black Cloud #1, Redneck #1, Rock Candy Mountain #1, A.D.: After Death, Saga Book Two Deluxe, and Street Angel: After School Kung Fu Special Aftershock Comics - Eleanor & the Egret #1 Albatross Funnybooks - 'Namwolf #1 Alternative Comics - Slasher #1 and Violence Valley Andrews McMeel - Lunarbaboon: The Daily Life of Parenthood Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Babybel Wax Bodysuit BOOM! Studios - Godshaper #1 Dynamite Entertainment - The Greatest Adventure #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Berlin #20 and Kitaro and The Great Tanuki War Fanfare/Ponent Mon - Face Fantagraphics Books - Zanardi, What Parsifal Saw, All Time Comics: Bullwhip #1, and Purgatory First Second - The Nameless City, Vol. 2: The Stone Heart Kodansha Comics - Happiness, Vol. 4 NBM - Look Oni Press - Brik Pantheon Books - Imagine Wanting Only This SelfMadeHero - Josephine Baker Toon Books - Something's Fishy Uncivilized Books - Everything Is Flammable University Press of Mississippi - paperback editions of Asian Comics and Bending Steel:  Modernity and the American Superhero Preorder your copies of some of the titles mentioned in this episode:   Hobos!

It's that time of the month, and on this week's regular episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek take a look at the February Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they update everyone on current comics news and podcast updates, as well as share listener mail. Then they get into the current Previews catalog, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the upcoming comics they discuss are offerings from:

Preorder your copies of some of the titles mentioned in this episode:

 

]]> 6504 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Karl Stevens http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-karl-stevens Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Karl Stevens 01:26:32 - Wrap up 01:28:02 - Contact us Diluted Horse Piss On this interview episode, Derek talks with Karl Steven about Penny, his current weekly/semiweekly strip appearing in The Village Voice. The two discuss this ongoing comic and its genesis, but they also talk about a variety of Karl's other works. Of particular focus are the series of strips he created for the Boston Phoenix between June 2005 and November 2012. The earliest ones are collected in Whatever (Alternative Comics), and the later comics in two follow-up compilations, The Lodger (KSA Publishing) and Failure (Alternative Comics). In this way, Derek is able to talk with Karl about his distinctive realistic style and  how he has evolved from a heavily reliance on crosshatching to a more simple, even softer approach. Along with this, Karl shares is aesthetic philosophy of naturalistic detail and  how it differs strongly from that of creators such as Scott McCloud, Jessica Abel, and Matt Madden. The guys also talk about Karl's first book, the Xeric Award-winning Guilty. This effort is what put Karl Stevens on the map in 2005, and even today it serves as a wonderful introduction to his style. They also cover the artist's efforts in the fine arts, including his highly informative Anatomy for Artists: A New Approach to Discovering, Learning and Remembering the Body (North Light Books), coauthored with Anthony Apesos. Karl also shares some information about The Winner, his new book that will be coming out this fall from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, and future plans to collect his and Gustavo Turner's Succe$$ comics into book form. Discover the art of Karl Stevens: Mon, 06 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Diluted Horse Piss Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:26 - Setup of interview 00:04:01 - Interview with Karl Stevens 01:26:32 - Wrap up 01:28:02 - Contact us Diluted Horse Piss On this interview episode, Derek talks with Karl Steven about Penny, his current weekly/semiweekly strip appearing in The Village Voice. The two discuss this ongoing comic and its genesis, but they also talk about a variety of Karl's other works. Of particular focus are the series of strips he created for the Boston Phoenix between June 2005 and November 2012. The earliest ones are collected in Whatever (Alternative Comics), and the later comics in two follow-up compilations, The Lodger (KSA Publishing) and Failure (Alternative Comics). In this way, Derek is able to talk with Karl about his distinctive realistic style and  how he has evolved from a heavily reliance on crosshatching to a more simple, even softer approach. Along with this, Karl shares is aesthetic philosophy of naturalistic detail and  how it differs strongly from that of creators such as Scott McCloud, Jessica Abel, and Matt Madden. The guys also talk about Karl's first book, the Xeric Award-winning Guilty. This effort is what put Karl Stevens on the map in 2005, and even today it serves as a wonderful introduction to his style. They also cover the artist's efforts in the fine arts, including his highly informative Anatomy for Artists: A New Approach to Discovering, Learning and Remembering the Body (North Light Books), coauthored with Anthony Apesos. Karl also shares some information about The Winner, his new book that will be coming out this fall from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, and future plans to collect his and Gustavo Turner's Succe$$ comics into book form. Discover the art of Karl Stevens: Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:26 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:01 - Interview with Karl Stevens
  • 01:26:32 - Wrap up
  • 01:28:02 - Contact us

Diluted Horse Piss

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Karl Steven about Penny, his current weekly/semiweekly strip appearing in The Village Voice. The two discuss this ongoing comic and its genesis, but they also talk about a variety of Karl's other works. Of particular focus are the series of strips he created for the Boston Phoenix between June 2005 and November 2012. The earliest ones are collected in Whatever (Alternative Comics), and the later comics in two follow-up compilations, The Lodger (KSA Publishing) and Failure (Alternative Comics). In this way, Derek is able to talk with Karl about his distinctive realistic style and  how he has evolved from a heavily reliance on crosshatching to a more simple, even softer approach. Along with this, Karl shares is aesthetic philosophy of naturalistic detail and  how it differs strongly from that of creators such as Scott McCloud, Jessica Abel, and Matt Madden.

The guys also talk about Karl's first book, the Xeric Award-winning Guilty. This effort is what put Karl Stevens on the map in 2005, and even today it serves as a wonderful introduction to his style. They also cover the artist's efforts in the fine arts, including his highly informative Anatomy for Artists: A New Approach to Discovering, Learning and Remembering the Body (North Light Books), coauthored with Anthony Apesos. Karl also shares some information about The Winner, his new book that will be coming out this fall from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, and future plans to collect his and Gustavo Turner's Succe$$ comics into book form.

Discover the art of Karl Stevens:

]]> 5462 no Episode 225: Reviews of <i>Love Is Love</i> and <i>Resist!</i> http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-225-reviews-of-love-is-love-and-resist Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:44 - We live in a political world 00:12:13 - Love Is Love 00:51:55 - Resist! 01:29:14 - Wrap up 01:30:20 - Contact us Mending Wall This week Andy and Derek get political, and they do so by discussing two recent socially conscious anthologies. They begin with Love Is Love, a collection of short strips and illustrations. This anthology, originated and with an afterword by Marc Andreyko, was released in December by IDW Publishing, and the proceeds from sales go to supporting the survivors of and families of those killed at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, 2016. As the guys point out, this collection is diverse in contribution and tone, with most comics calling for peace, some taking a more aggressive edge, and many adopting a quiet stance of commemoration. Both DC Comics and the Equality Florida organization had a large hand in bringing this book about, and you can still contribute to the latter's victim's funds via their GoFundMe page. Next, the Two Guys discuss the very timely Resist!, a free tabloid-format anthology published by Desert Island and made available during the June 21 protest marches around the country (and around the world). This incredible effort, edited by the mother-and-daughter team of Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman, began as a special issue of Gabe Fowler's Smoke Signal, but then it evolved into something more far-reaching. The newspaper's front-page banner, "a woman's place is in the revolution!" is what this collection is all about. The individual contributions vary widely, but what is most impressive about this anthology is its truly democratic nature. Comics from notable names within the industry -- such as Carol Tyler, Bill Griffith, Alison Bechtel, Miss Lasko-Gross, and Lance Tooks -- stand alongside lesser-known, amateur, and possibly first-time cartoonists. Resist! may not be the easiest thing to find after the women's marches, but you can still support these efforts by checking out the project's website. Get your copies of the titles and creators discussed in this episode: Wed, 01 Feb 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mending Wall Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:44 - We live in a political world 00:12:13 - Love Is Love 00:51:55 - Resist! 01:29:14 - Wrap up 01:30:20 - Contact us Mending Wall This week Andy and Derek get political, and they do so by discussing two recent socially conscious anthologies. They begin with Love Is Love, a collection of short strips and illustrations. This anthology, originated and with an afterword by Marc Andreyko, was released in December by IDW Publishing, and the proceeds from sales go to supporting the survivors of and families of those killed at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, 2016. As the guys point out, this collection is diverse in contribution and tone, with most comics calling for peace, some taking a more aggressive edge, and many adopting a quiet stance of commemoration. Both DC Comics and the Equality Florida organization had a large hand in bringing this book about, and you can still contribute to the latter's victim's funds via their GoFundMe page. Next, the Two Guys discuss the very timely Resist!, a free tabloid-format anthology published by Desert Island and made available during the June 21 protest marches around the country (and around the world). This incredible effort, edited by the mother-and-daughter team of Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman, began as a special issue of Gabe Fowler's Smoke Signal, but then it evolved into something more far-reaching. The newspaper's front-page banner, "a woman's place is in the revolution!" is what this collection is all about. The individual contributions vary widely, but what is most impressive about this anthology is its truly democratic nature. Comics from notable names within the industry -- such as Carol Tyler, Bill Griffith, Alison Bechtel, Miss Lasko-Gross, and Lance Tooks -- stand alongside lesser-known, amateur, and possibly first-time cartoonists. Resist! may not be the easiest thing to find after the women's marches, but you can still support these efforts by checking out the project's website. Get your copies of the titles and creators discussed in this episode: Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:44 - We live in a political world
  • 00:12:13 - Love Is Love
  • 00:51:55 - Resist!
  • 01:29:14 - Wrap up
  • 01:30:20 - Contact us

Mending Wall

This week Andy and Derek get political, and they do so by discussing two recent socially conscious anthologies. They begin with Love Is Love, a collection of short strips and illustrations. This anthology, originated and with an afterword by Marc Andreyko, was released in December by IDW Publishing, and the proceeds from sales go to supporting the survivors of and families of those killed at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, 2016. As the guys point out, this collection is diverse in contribution and tone, with most comics calling for peace, some taking a more aggressive edge, and many adopting a quiet stance of commemoration. Both DC Comics and the Equality Florida organization had a large hand in bringing this book about, and you can still contribute to the latter's victim's funds via their GoFundMe page.

Next, the Two Guys discuss the very timely Resist!, a free tabloid-format anthology published by Desert Island and made available during the June 21 protest marches around the country (and around the world). This incredible effort, edited by the mother-and-daughter team of Françoise Mouly and Nadja Spiegelman, began as a special issue of Gabe Fowler's Smoke Signal, but then it evolved into something more far-reaching. The newspaper's front-page banner, "a woman's place is in the revolution!" is what this collection is all about. The individual contributions vary widely, but what is most impressive about this anthology is its truly democratic nature. Comics from notable names within the industry -- such as Carol Tyler, Bill Griffith, Alison Bechtel, Miss Lasko-Gross, and Lance Tooks -- stand alongside lesser-known, amateur, and possibly first-time cartoonists. Resist! may not be the easiest thing to find after the women's marches, but you can still support these efforts by checking out the project's website.

Get your copies of the titles and creators discussed in this episode:

]]> 5623 no Manga: Review of <i>Sunny</i> and Discussions of Other Works by Taiyo Matsumoto http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-review-of-sunny-and-discussions-of-other-works-by-taiyo-matsumoto   Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Catching up for the new year 00:04:19 - Sunny 01:09:40 - Other works by Matsumoto 01:20:29 - Wrap up 01:22:06 - Contact us The Young Ones This month on the manga show, Shea and Derek discuss the recently completed, Sunny, as well as other works by Taiyo Matsumoto. Late last year VIZ Media published the six and final volume of Sunny, a series that began in December 2010 in the original Japanese (published in Monthly Ikki), and has been coming out in English translation since the first volume in May 2013. This is a title that the guys have been wanting to discuss for some time, but they decided to hold out until the everything was wrapped up so that they could look at the series in its entirety. This is a realistic, evenly paced drama about a group of orphans and outsiders residing at Star Kids Home, a foster home that serves as a refuse for children without family or whose parents do not have the means, or even the interest, in caring for them. Although this narrative functions with an ensemble cast, Shea and Derek feel that the de facto protagonist here is Haruo, an angry, troubled kid whose parents remain aloof. The series unfolds as Haruo interacts with the other children at the home, each of whom gets ample attention in the text, and the adults who try to make things manageable for them. The one central refuge in their lives, a space of safety and imagination, is a derelict Nissan Sunny 1200 that sits abandoned in the front yard of the Star Kids Home. The guys spend most of the episode mapping out the various characters and their struggles in Sunny, but they also take the time to discuss other manga by Matsumoto, including Blue Spring (the original collected in 1993, and translated into English in 2004), Gogo Monster (2000/2009), the untranslated Takemitsuzamurai (2006-2010), and especially the Eisner Award-winning Tekkon Kinkreet, which originally ran from 1993-1994 and was collected as a one-volume English translation in 2007. As Shea points out, this is one of their favorite manga creators -- for both guys -- and they wanted to use this episode to dig deep into his art. Build your Taiyo Matsumoto library:   Mon, 30 Jan 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Young Ones   Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:36 - Catching up for the new year 00:04:19 - Sunny 01:09:40 - Other works by Matsumoto 01:20:29 - Wrap up 01:22:06 - Contact us The Young Ones This month on the manga show, Shea and Derek discuss the recently completed, Sunny, as well as other works by Taiyo Matsumoto. Late last year VIZ Media published the six and final volume of Sunny, a series that began in December 2010 in the original Japanese (published in Monthly Ikki), and has been coming out in English translation since the first volume in May 2013. This is a title that the guys have been wanting to discuss for some time, but they decided to hold out until the everything was wrapped up so that they could look at the series in its entirety. This is a realistic, evenly paced drama about a group of orphans and outsiders residing at Star Kids Home, a foster home that serves as a refuse for children without family or whose parents do not have the means, or even the interest, in caring for them. Although this narrative functions with an ensemble cast, Shea and Derek feel that the de facto protagonist here is Haruo, an angry, troubled kid whose parents remain aloof. The series unfolds as Haruo interacts with the other children at the home, each of whom gets ample attention in the text, and the adults who try to make things manageable for them. The one central refuge in their lives, a space of safety and imagination, is a derelict Nissan Sunny 1200 that sits abandoned in the front yard of the Star Kids Home. The guys spend most of the episode mapping out the various characters and their struggles in Sunny, but they also take the time to discuss other manga by Matsumoto, including Blue Spring (the original collected in 1993, and translated into English in 2004), Gogo Monster (2000/2009), the untranslated Takemitsuzamurai (2006-2010), and especially the Eisner Award-winning Tekkon Kinkreet, which originally ran from 1993-1994 and was collected as a one-volume English translation in 2007. As Shea points out, this is one of their favorite manga creators -- for both guys -- and they wanted to use this episode to dig deep into his art. Build your Taiyo Matsumoto library:     Time Codes:

  • 00:00:28 - Introduction
  • 00:02:36 - Catching up for the new year
  • 00:04:19 - Sunny
  • 01:09:40 - Other works by Matsumoto
  • 01:20:29 - Wrap up
  • 01:22:06 - Contact us

The Young Ones

This month on the manga show, Shea and Derek discuss the recently completed, Sunny, as well as other works by Taiyo Matsumoto. Late last year VIZ Media published the six and final volume of Sunny, a series that began in December 2010 in the original Japanese (published in Monthly Ikki), and has been coming out in English translation since the first volume in May 2013. This is a title that the guys have been wanting to discuss for some time, but they decided to hold out until the everything was wrapped up so that they could look at the series in its entirety.

This is a realistic, evenly paced drama about a group of orphans and outsiders residing at Star Kids Home, a foster home that serves as a refuse for children without family or whose parents do not have the means, or even the interest, in caring for them. Although this narrative functions with an ensemble cast, Shea and Derek feel that the de facto protagonist here is Haruo, an angry, troubled kid whose parents remain aloof. The series unfolds as Haruo interacts with the other children at the home, each of whom gets ample attention in the text, and the adults who try to make things manageable for them. The one central refuge in their lives, a space of safety and imagination, is a derelict Nissan Sunny 1200 that sits abandoned in the front yard of the Star Kids Home.

The guys spend most of the episode mapping out the various characters and their struggles in Sunny, but they also take the time to discuss other manga by Matsumoto, including Blue Spring (the original collected in 1993, and translated into English in 2004), Gogo Monster (2000/2009), the untranslated Takemitsuzamurai (2006-2010), and especially the Eisner Award-winning Tekkon Kinkreet, which originally ran from 1993-1994 and was collected as a one-volume English translation in 2007. As Shea points out, this is one of their favorite manga creators -- for both guys -- and they wanted to use this episode to dig deep into his art.

Build your Taiyo Matsumoto library:

 

]]> 5115 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Miriam Libicki http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-miriam-libicki Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:19 - Setup of interview 00:03:17 - Interview with Miriam Libicki 01:01:17 - Wrap up 01:03:11 - Contact us Exposure Andy and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Miriam Libicki whose latest book, Toward a Hot Jew, was released late last year from Fantagraphics. This is a collection of various graphic essays that Miriam has written over the years, a style of writing she describes as a comics form of gonzo journalism. The guys talk with her about these various pieces and their mix of reportage, autobiography, and expository analysis. They also discuss Miriam's autobiographical series Jobnik!, which concerns her experiences serving in the Israeli army. Most of the talk revolves around Miriam's writing, but at times the conversation becomes more academic and speculative, in many ways reflecting the tone found throughout Toward a Hot Jew. Get Miriam's books and others discussed in this interview:     Fri, 27 Jan 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Exposure Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:19 - Setup of interview 00:03:17 - Interview with Miriam Libicki 01:01:17 - Wrap up 01:03:11 - Contact us Exposure Andy and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Miriam Libicki whose latest book, Toward a Hot Jew, was released late last year from Fantagraphics. This is a collection of various graphic essays that Miriam has written over the years, a style of writing she describes as a comics form of gonzo journalism. The guys talk with her about these various pieces and their mix of reportage, autobiography, and expository analysis. They also discuss Miriam's autobiographical series Jobnik!, which concerns her experiences serving in the Israeli army. Most of the talk revolves around Miriam's writing, but at times the conversation becomes more academic and speculative, in many ways reflecting the tone found throughout Toward a Hot Jew. Get Miriam's books and others discussed in this interview:     Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:19 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:17 - Interview with Miriam Libicki
  • 01:01:17 - Wrap up
  • 01:03:11 - Contact us

Exposure

Andy and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Miriam Libicki whose latest book, Toward a Hot Jew, was released late last year from Fantagraphics. This is a collection of various graphic essays that Miriam has written over the years, a style of writing she describes as a comics form of gonzo journalism. The guys talk with her about these various pieces and their mix of reportage, autobiography, and expository analysis. They also discuss Miriam's autobiographical series Jobnik!, which concerns her experiences serving in the Israeli army. Most of the talk revolves around Miriam's writing, but at times the conversation becomes more academic and speculative, in many ways reflecting the tone found throughout Toward a Hot Jew.

Get Miriam's books and others discussed in this interview:

   

]]> 3972 no Episode 224: Reviews of <i>Beowulf</i>, <i>Canopy</i>, and <i>Shadows on the Grave</i> #1 and #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-224-reviews-of-beowulf-canopy-and-shadows-on-the-grave-1-and-2 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:44 - The end of January already? 00:04:25 - Beowulf 00:43:42 - Canopy 00:59:17 - Shadows on the Grave #1 and #2 01:22:23 - Wrap up 01:23:12 - Contact us Hwæt! For this week's episode, Andy and Derek put on their English professor hats, and with a vengeance, when taking on the latest comics version of Beowulf (Image Comics), adapted by Santiago García and David Rubín. While this is not, by far, the only comics adaptation of this classic Old English poem, the guys feel that it's one of the best they've seen. Indeed, Rubín's artwork is particularly suited to the violent action and Beowulf's heroic exploits. And the ending of this text, which takes a significant self-reflective turn, goes on to underscore the guys' appreciation of this adaptation. Next, the Two Guys look at one of the latest releases from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, Karine Bernadou's Canopy. Neither Derek nor Andy were familiar with Bernadou's work before this book, but they find this a fascinating introduction to the French illustrator. Canopy is an almost completely wordless tale surrounding a young woman trying to make it on her own. But she does so in a surreal wilderness infused with male-centered threats. For their final title of the week, the guys discuss an author who's not gotten enough attention on the podcast...at least from Derek's perspective. The first two issues of Richard Corben's Shadows on the Grave (Dark Horse Comics) are now out, and the guys take on this anthology-like miniseries. These brief stories have a Night Gallery feel, but with an amped up creepy factor. This is all due to the wonderfully disturbing art of Corben, who opts for a black, white, and gray tone rendering, a change from his other recent Dark Horse work. Get your copies of the titles discussed in this episode:   Wed, 25 Jan 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hwæt! Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:44 - The end of January already? 00:04:25 - Beowulf 00:43:42 - Canopy 00:59:17 - Shadows on the Grave #1 and #2 01:22:23 - Wrap up 01:23:12 - Contact us Hwæt! For this week's episode, Andy and Derek put on their English professor hats, and with a vengeance, when taking on the latest comics version of Beowulf (Image Comics), adapted by Santiago García and David Rubín. While this is not, by far, the only comics adaptation of this classic Old English poem, the guys feel that it's one of the best they've seen. Indeed, Rubín's artwork is particularly suited to the violent action and Beowulf's heroic exploits. And the ending of this text, which takes a significant self-reflective turn, goes on to underscore the guys' appreciation of this adaptation. Next, the Two Guys look at one of the latest releases from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, Karine Bernadou's Canopy. Neither Derek nor Andy were familiar with Bernadou's work before this book, but they find this a fascinating introduction to the French illustrator. Canopy is an almost completely wordless tale surrounding a young woman trying to make it on her own. But she does so in a surreal wilderness infused with male-centered threats. For their final title of the week, the guys discuss an author who's not gotten enough attention on the podcast...at least from Derek's perspective. The first two issues of Richard Corben's Shadows on the Grave (Dark Horse Comics) are now out, and the guys take on this anthology-like miniseries. These brief stories have a Night Gallery feel, but with an amped up creepy factor. This is all due to the wonderfully disturbing art of Corben, who opts for a black, white, and gray tone rendering, a change from his other recent Dark Horse work. Get your copies of the titles discussed in this episode:   Time Codes:

Hwæt!

For this week's episode, Andy and Derek put on their English professor hats, and with a vengeance, when taking on the latest comics version of Beowulf (Image Comics), adapted by Santiago García and David Rubín. While this is not, by far, the only comics adaptation of this classic Old English poem, the guys feel that it's one of the best they've seen. Indeed, Rubín's artwork is particularly suited to the violent action and Beowulf's heroic exploits. And the ending of this text, which takes a significant self-reflective turn, goes on to underscore the guys' appreciation of this adaptation.

Next, the Two Guys look at one of the latest releases from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, Karine Bernadou's Canopy. Neither Derek nor Andy were familiar with Bernadou's work before this book, but they find this a fascinating introduction to the French illustrator. Canopy is an almost completely wordless tale surrounding a young woman trying to make it on her own. But she does so in a surreal wilderness infused with male-centered threats.

For their final title of the week, the guys discuss an author who's not gotten enough attention on the podcast...at least from Derek's perspective. The first two issues of Richard Corben's Shadows on the Grave (Dark Horse Comics) are now out, and the guys take on this anthology-like miniseries. These brief stories have a Night Gallery feel, but with an amped up creepy factor. This is all due to the wonderfully disturbing art of Corben, who opts for a black, white, and gray tone rendering, a change from his other recent Dark Horse work.

Get your copies of the titles discussed in this episode:

 

]]> 5174 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Joe Ollmann http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-joe-ollmann Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:00 - Interview with Joe Ollmann 01:21:27 - Wrap up 01:22:58 - Contact us Of Human Bondage On this interview episode, Andy and Derek talk with Doug Wright Award-winner Joe Ollmann, whose new book, The Abominable Mr. Seabrook, comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly. Joe starts off by introducing William Seabrook and his writings, since this is a historical literary figure that most listeners have probably never heard of before. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time discussing the ups and downs of Seabrook's career and speculating on why he's not more notable than he is. With a background in yellow journalism, Seabrook became a famed adventurer and travel writer who befriended a who's who of early twentieth-century literati, including Thomas Mann, Aldous Huxley, Gertrude Stein, Sinclair Lewis, Man Ray, Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dali, and Aleister Crowley. As Joe points out, he was famously known at the time, not only as a writer, but as a cultural progressive, a cannibal, a bondage enthusiast, and the man who popularized zombies. What fascinates Ollmann most about this colorful figure is Seabrook's upfront attitudes about himself, refusing to hide the more salacious sides of his personality. At the same time, this cavalier manner may have contributed to his notorious alcoholism, tragically revealed in his memoir, Asylum, and a condition that stifled his career and helped lead to his eventual death. The guys have a great time talking with Joe about his 10+ years in researching and writing this biography, the differences between writing this book and his previous ones (all fictions), and the dynamics of visually narrating the life of such a controversial and conflicted character. Joe is also writing about his experiences with The Abominable Mr. Seabrook on The Paris Review! And read Derek's previous interview with Joe Ollmann for The Comics Alternative blog. Check out The Abominable Mr. Seabrook as well as other works by Joe Ollmann:     Mon, 23 Jan 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Of Human Bondage Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:38 - Setup of interview 00:04:00 - Interview with Joe Ollmann 01:21:27 - Wrap up 01:22:58 - Contact us Of Human Bondage On this interview episode, Andy and Derek talk with Doug Wright Award-winner Joe Ollmann, whose new book, The Abominable Mr. Seabrook, comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly. Joe starts off by introducing William Seabrook and his writings, since this is a historical literary figure that most listeners have probably never heard of before. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time discussing the ups and downs of Seabrook's career and speculating on why he's not more notable than he is. With a background in yellow journalism, Seabrook became a famed adventurer and travel writer who befriended a who's who of early twentieth-century literati, including Thomas Mann, Aldous Huxley, Gertrude Stein, Sinclair Lewis, Man Ray, Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dali, and Aleister Crowley. As Joe points out, he was famously known at the time, not only as a writer, but as a cultural progressive, a cannibal, a bondage enthusiast, and the man who popularized zombies. What fascinates Ollmann most about this colorful figure is Seabrook's upfront attitudes about himself, refusing to hide the more salacious sides of his personality. At the same time, this cavalier manner may have contributed to his notorious alcoholism, tragically revealed in his memoir, Asylum, and a condition that stifled his career and helped lead to his eventual death. The guys have a great time talking with Joe about his 10+ years in researching and writing this biography, the differences between writing this book and his previous ones (all fictions), and the dynamics of visually narrating the life of such a controversial and conflicted character. Joe is also writing about his experiences with The Abominable Mr. Seabrook on The Paris Review! And read Derek's previous interview with Joe Ollmann for The Comics Alternative blog. Check out The Abominable Mr. Seabrook as well as other works by Joe Ollmann:     Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:38 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:00 - Interview with Joe Ollmann
  • 01:21:27 - Wrap up
  • 01:22:58 - Contact us

Of Human Bondage

On this interview episode, Andy and Derek talk with Doug Wright Award-winner Joe Ollmann, whose new book, The Abominable Mr. Seabrook, comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly. Joe starts off by introducing William Seabrook and his writings, since this is a historical literary figure that most listeners have probably never heard of before. In fact, the guys spend a good bit of time discussing the ups and downs of Seabrook's career and speculating on why he's not more notable than he is. With a background in yellow journalism, Seabrook became a famed adventurer and travel writer who befriended a who's who of early twentieth-century literati, including Thomas Mann, Aldous Huxley, Gertrude Stein, Sinclair Lewis, Man Ray, Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dali, and Aleister Crowley. As Joe points out, he was famously known at the time, not only as a writer, but as a cultural progressive, a cannibal, a bondage enthusiast, and the man who popularized zombies. What fascinates Ollmann most about this colorful figure is Seabrook's upfront attitudes about himself, refusing to hide the more salacious sides of his personality. At the same time, this cavalier manner may have contributed to his notorious alcoholism, tragically revealed in his memoir, Asylum, and a condition that stifled his career and helped lead to his eventual death. The guys have a great time talking with Joe about his 10+ years in researching and writing this biography, the differences between writing this book and his previous ones (all fictions), and the dynamics of visually narrating the life of such a controversial and conflicted character.

Joe is also writing about his experiences with The Abominable Mr. Seabrook on The Paris Review!

And read Derek's previous interview with Joe Ollmann for The Comics Alternative blog.

Check out The Abominable Mr. Seabrook as well as other works by Joe Ollmann:

   

]]> 5180 no On Location: The January Visit to Valhalla Games and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-january-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comics Touch the Weird Love It's the beginning of a new year, and on this episode of the on-location series, Derek is back at Valhalla Games and Comics to talk with customers and employees about the comics they're looking forward to in the coming months. He's joined by a couple of the regulars, Craig and Nick, as well as employees Stephanie and Freddy. Among the titles folks are anticipating in 2017 are The Unstoppable Wasp, Highlander: The American Dream, Justice League of America, Planet of the Apes/Green Lantern, Hatchet, more Head Lopper, Black History in Its Own Words, Psychodrama Illustrated, and the new Rat Queens. But the guys at the shop don't stop there. They also discuss other comics-related media, films and television series, that are planned for this year. Check out some of the titles discussed in this episode:     Fri, 20 Jan 2017 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Touch the Weird Love Touch the Weird Love It's the beginning of a new year, and on this episode of the on-location series, Derek is back at Valhalla Games and Comics to talk with customers and employees about the comics they're looking forward to in the coming months. He's joined by a couple of the regulars, Craig and Nick, as well as employees Stephanie and Freddy. Among the titles folks are anticipating in 2017 are The Unstoppable Wasp, Highlander: The American Dream, Justice League of America, Planet of the Apes/Green Lantern, Hatchet, more Head Lopper, Black History in Its Own Words, Psychodrama Illustrated, and the new Rat Queens. But the guys at the shop don't stop there. They also discuss other comics-related media, films and television series, that are planned for this year. Check out some of the titles discussed in this episode:    

Touch the Weird Love

It's the beginning of a new year, and on this episode of the on-location series, Derek is back at Valhalla Games and Comics to talk with customers and employees about the comics they're looking forward to in the coming months. He's joined by a couple of the regulars, Craig and Nick, as well as employees Stephanie and Freddy. Among the titles folks are anticipating in 2017 are The Unstoppable Wasp, Highlander: The American Dream, Justice League of America, Planet of the Apes/Green Lantern, Hatchet, more Head Lopper, Black History in Its Own Words, Psychodrama Illustrated, and the new Rat Queens. But the guys at the shop don't stop there. They also discuss other comics-related media, films and television series, that are planned for this year.

Check out some of the titles discussed in this episode:

   

]]> 3951 no Episode 223: Reviews of Trump: The Complete Collection, The Few #1, and Gumballs #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-223-reviews-of-trump-the-complete-collection-the-few-1-and-gumballs-1 Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:48 - We stand with John Lewis! 00:08:44 - Trump: The Complete Collection 00:58:22 - The Few #1 01:11:46 - Gumballs #1 01:25:12 - Wrap up 01:25:58 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs start off by getting political. While some listeners might not like it when Andy and Derek become polemical on the podcast, the guys just had to speak out about the brouhaha surrounding Congressman John Lewis's recent comments on Trump's illegitimacy. The Two Guys stand with Representative Lewis, a man of courage, honor, and action. And it's heartening that copies of March are selling out all over the place! But enough of the bad Trump. The guys find more serious another entity of that name, this one orchestrated by the legendary Harvey Kurtzman. Trump: The Complete Collection is the second volume in Dark Horse's Essential Kurtzman series. This beautiful hardbound edition collects the only two issues of Trump ever published, as well as the many never-before reproduced illustrations from what would have been the third issue of the magazine, had Hugh Hefner not pulled the plug. Both Andy and Derek appreciate the collection -- especially Denis Kitchen's outstanding essay and annotations! -- and while some of the humor appears dated (or even falls flat at times), this text stands out as an indispensable historical contribution. After that Derek and Andy check out two recent #1 issues, Sean Lewis and Hayden Sherman's The Few (Image Comics) and Erin Nations's Gumballs (Top Shelf/IDW Publishing). The former is a leisurely paced and extra-long issue centered around a future where the United States is now a fractured territory due to water scarcities (at least the guys think this is the series' premise). Sherman's art stands out here. And Gumballs is a single-creator anthology that's a mix of autobiographical sketches, character portraits, and poignant cultural observations. The guys look forward to seeing what transpires in both of these series. Wed, 18 Jan 2017 15:54:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bad Trump, Good Trump Time Codes: 00:00:31 - Introduction 00:02:48 - We stand with John Lewis! 00:08:44 - Trump: The Complete Collection 00:58:22 - The Few #1 01:11:46 - Gumballs #1 01:25:12 - Wrap up 01:25:58 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs start off by getting political. While some listeners might not like it when Andy and Derek become polemical on the podcast, the guys just had to speak out about the brouhaha surrounding Congressman John Lewis's recent comments on Trump's illegitimacy. The Two Guys stand with Representative Lewis, a man of courage, honor, and action. And it's heartening that copies of March are selling out all over the place! But enough of the bad Trump. The guys find more serious another entity of that name, this one orchestrated by the legendary Harvey Kurtzman. Trump: The Complete Collection is the second volume in Dark Horse's Essential Kurtzman series. This beautiful hardbound edition collects the only two issues of Trump ever published, as well as the many never-before reproduced illustrations from what would have been the third issue of the magazine, had Hugh Hefner not pulled the plug. Both Andy and Derek appreciate the collection -- especially Denis Kitchen's outstanding essay and annotations! -- and while some of the humor appears dated (or even falls flat at times), this text stands out as an indispensable historical contribution. After that Derek and Andy check out two recent #1 issues, Sean Lewis and Hayden Sherman's The Few (Image Comics) and Erin Nations's Gumballs (Top Shelf/IDW Publishing). The former is a leisurely paced and extra-long issue centered around a future where the United States is now a fractured territory due to water scarcities (at least the guys think this is the series' premise). Sherman's art stands out here. And Gumballs is a single-creator anthology that's a mix of autobiographical sketches, character portraits, and poignant cultural observations. The guys look forward to seeing what transpires in both of these series.

Time Codes:

This week the Two Guys with PhDs start off by getting political. While some listeners might not like it when Andy and Derek become polemical on the podcast, the guys just had to speak out about the brouhaha surrounding Congressman John Lewis's recent comments on Trump's illegitimacy. The Two Guys stand with Representative Lewis, a man of courage, honor, and action. And it's heartening that copies of March are selling out all over the place!

But enough of the bad Trump. The guys find more serious another entity of that name, this one orchestrated by the legendary Harvey Kurtzman. Trump: The Complete Collection is the second volume in Dark Horse's Essential Kurtzman series. This beautiful hardbound edition collects the only two issues of Trump ever published, as well as the many never-before reproduced illustrations from what would have been the third issue of the magazine, had Hugh Hefner not pulled the plug. Both Andy and Derek appreciate the collection -- especially Denis Kitchen's outstanding essay and annotations! -- and while some of the humor appears dated (or even falls flat at times), this text stands out as an indispensable historical contribution.

After that Derek and Andy check out two recent #1 issues, Sean Lewis and Hayden Sherman's The Few (Image Comics) and Erin Nations's Gumballs (Top Shelf/IDW Publishing). The former is a leisurely paced and extra-long issue centered around a future where the United States is now a fractured territory due to water scarcities (at least the guys think this is the series' premise). Sherman's art stands out here. And Gumballs is a single-creator anthology that's a mix of autobiographical sketches, character portraits, and poignant cultural observations. The guys look forward to seeing what transpires in both of these series.

]]> 5341 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Equinoxes and Clear Blue Tomorrows http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-equinoxes-and-clear-blue-tomorrows Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:17 - Setting up Pedrosa and Vehlmann 00:08:08 - Equinoxes and other Pedrosa titles 00:51:14 - Clear Blue Tomorrows and other Vehlmann titles 01:26:01 - Wrap up 01:29:12 - Contact us It's the first Euro Comics episode of the new year, and Edward and Derek use the occasion to focus on the work of two contemporary French creators, using their latest books as springboards into their larger bodies of work. They begin with Cyril Pedrosa's Equinoxes (NBM Publishing), a novelistic examination of life purpose and the uses we make of art in creating meaning. The text comprises four alternating storylines that become more enmeshed as the narrative progresses, combining comics with prose passages in establishing its contemplative tone. But Edward and Derek also bring in discussions of Pedrosa's earlier works in translation, including Three Shadows (First Second), Hearts at Sea (Dupuis/Europe Comics) and Portugal (Dupuis/Europe Comics). Next, the Two Guys examine Clear Blue Tomorrows, written by Fabien Vehlmann with art by Ralph Meyer and Bruno Gazzotti (Cinebook). This book is basically a series of science-fiction or fantastic stories brought together by a broader narrative frame: a time traveler from a dystopian future tasked with ghost writing stories for the would-be tyrant in hopes of changing the man's occupational trajectory. It's a curious spin on the "killing Hitler" sci-fi trope, though narratively reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. The guys also discuss several of Vehlmann's other works, including Last Days of an Immortal (Archaia), Beautiful Darkness (Drawn and Quarterly), and the all-age series Alone (Cinebook). There's a lot packed into this episode...and so many reading ideas! Mon, 16 Jan 2017 17:54:22 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Time and Tide Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:17 - Setting up Pedrosa and Vehlmann 00:08:08 - Equinoxes and other Pedrosa titles 00:51:14 - Clear Blue Tomorrows and other Vehlmann titles 01:26:01 - Wrap up 01:29:12 - Contact us It's the first Euro Comics episode of the new year, and Edward and Derek use the occasion to focus on the work of two contemporary French creators, using their latest books as springboards into their larger bodies of work. They begin with Cyril Pedrosa's Equinoxes (NBM Publishing), a novelistic examination of life purpose and the uses we make of art in creating meaning. The text comprises four alternating storylines that become more enmeshed as the narrative progresses, combining comics with prose passages in establishing its contemplative tone. But Edward and Derek also bring in discussions of Pedrosa's earlier works in translation, including Three Shadows (First Second), Hearts at Sea (Dupuis/Europe Comics) and Portugal (Dupuis/Europe Comics). Next, the Two Guys examine Clear Blue Tomorrows, written by Fabien Vehlmann with art by Ralph Meyer and Bruno Gazzotti (Cinebook). This book is basically a series of science-fiction or fantastic stories brought together by a broader narrative frame: a time traveler from a dystopian future tasked with ghost writing stories for the would-be tyrant in hopes of changing the man's occupational trajectory. It's a curious spin on the "killing Hitler" sci-fi trope, though narratively reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. The guys also discuss several of Vehlmann's other works, including Last Days of an Immortal (Archaia), Beautiful Darkness (Drawn and Quarterly), and the all-age series Alone (Cinebook). There's a lot packed into this episode...and so many reading ideas!

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:03:17 - Setting up Pedrosa and Vehlmann
  • 00:08:08 - Equinoxes and other Pedrosa titles
  • 00:51:14 - Clear Blue Tomorrows and other Vehlmann titles
  • 01:26:01 - Wrap up
  • 01:29:12 - Contact us

It's the first Euro Comics episode of the new year, and Edward and Derek use the occasion to focus on the work of two contemporary French creators, using their latest books as springboards into their larger bodies of work. They begin with Cyril Pedrosa's Equinoxes (NBM Publishing), a novelistic examination of life purpose and the uses we make of art in creating meaning. The text comprises four alternating storylines that become more enmeshed as the narrative progresses, combining comics with prose passages in establishing its contemplative tone. But Edward and Derek also bring in discussions of Pedrosa's earlier works in translation, including Three Shadows (First Second), Hearts at Sea (Dupuis/Europe Comics) and Portugal (Dupuis/Europe Comics).

Next, the Two Guys examine Clear Blue Tomorrows, written by Fabien Vehlmann with art by Ralph Meyer and Bruno Gazzotti (Cinebook). This book is basically a series of science-fiction or fantastic stories brought together by a broader narrative frame: a time traveler from a dystopian future tasked with ghost writing stories for the would-be tyrant in hopes of changing the man's occupational trajectory. It's a curious spin on the "killing Hitler" sci-fi trope, though narratively reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. The guys also discuss several of Vehlmann's other works, including Last Days of an Immortal (Archaia), Beautiful Darkness (Drawn and Quarterly), and the all-age series Alone (Cinebook). There's a lot packed into this episode...and so many reading ideas!

]]> 5545 no Episode 222: A Discussion of DC’s Young Animal Line http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-222-a-discussion-of-dcs-young-animal-line Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:46 - Comics Alternative news! 00:07:53 - Doom Patrol 00:42:28 - Shade the Changing Girl 00:59:45 - Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye 01:17:47 - Mother Panic 01:34:30 - Wrap up 01:41:55 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics discuss DC's Young Animal titles. They begin with Gerard Way and Nick Derington's Doom Patrol, the maiden voyage of the new imprint. There have been three issues released so far, and the guys really like what they've seen. Way definitely takes a cue from Grant Morrison's legendary run on the title, referencing many of Morrison's original additions to the Silver Age series -- most notably Danny the Street and Flex Mentallo -- yet at the same time making Doom Patrol uniquely his own. After that, Andy and Derek discuss the first four issues of Shade the Changing Girl. This is Cecil Castellucci and Marley Zarcone's revamping of the old Steve Ditko creation (and best popularized in the early 1990s by Peter Milligan and Chris Bachelor), Shade the Changing Man. Their emphasis on the lives of young high school women promises to be a curious spin on the property. Next, the guys turn to what Andy calls his favorite of the Young Animal line, Jonathan Rivera, Gerard Way, and Michael Avon Oeming's Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye. As they point out, Cave Carson is a character from the early 1960s appearing in both Brave and the Bold and Showcase, but unlike his contemporary Rip Hunter, he never received a title of his own. Way, Rivera, and Oeming are now giving him that opportunity. The Two Guys conclude their episode with a very different kind of Young Animal title, Jody Houser and Tommy Lee Edwards's Mother Panic. This is the only one of the four series not to be based on Silver Age properties, and it's the only one to be deeply enmeshed into the DC Universe. For that reason, Derek is less enamored with Mother Panic -- at least in terms of the first two issues so far -- feeling that it takes itself too seriously and wonders why this wasn't a regular DC title. Andy has no problem with this Gotham-drenched series. Wed, 11 Jan 2017 17:14:28 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Animal House Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:46 - Comics Alternative news! 00:07:53 - Doom Patrol 00:42:28 - Shade the Changing Girl 00:59:45 - Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye 01:17:47 - Mother Panic 01:34:30 - Wrap up 01:41:55 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics discuss DC's Young Animal titles. They begin with Gerard Way and Nick Derington's Doom Patrol, the maiden voyage of the new imprint. There have been three issues released so far, and the guys really like what they've seen. Way definitely takes a cue from Grant Morrison's legendary run on the title, referencing many of Morrison's original additions to the Silver Age series -- most notably Danny the Street and Flex Mentallo -- yet at the same time making Doom Patrol uniquely his own. After that, Andy and Derek discuss the first four issues of Shade the Changing Girl. This is Cecil Castellucci and Marley Zarcone's revamping of the old Steve Ditko creation (and best popularized in the early 1990s by Peter Milligan and Chris Bachelor), Shade the Changing Man. Their emphasis on the lives of young high school women promises to be a curious spin on the property. Next, the guys turn to what Andy calls his favorite of the Young Animal line, Jonathan Rivera, Gerard Way, and Michael Avon Oeming's Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye. As they point out, Cave Carson is a character from the early 1960s appearing in both Brave and the Bold and Showcase, but unlike his contemporary Rip Hunter, he never received a title of his own. Way, Rivera, and Oeming are now giving him that opportunity. The Two Guys conclude their episode with a very different kind of Young Animal title, Jody Houser and Tommy Lee Edwards's Mother Panic. This is the only one of the four series not to be based on Silver Age properties, and it's the only one to be deeply enmeshed into the DC Universe. For that reason, Derek is less enamored with Mother Panic -- at least in terms of the first two issues so far -- feeling that it takes itself too seriously and wonders why this wasn't a regular DC title. Andy has no problem with this Gotham-drenched series.

Time Codes:

This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics discuss DC's Young Animal titles. They begin with Gerard Way and Nick Derington's Doom Patrol, the maiden voyage of the new imprint. There have been three issues released so far, and the guys really like what they've seen. Way definitely takes a cue from Grant Morrison's legendary run on the title, referencing many of Morrison's original additions to the Silver Age series -- most notably Danny the Street and Flex Mentallo -- yet at the same time making Doom Patrol uniquely his own.

After that, Andy and Derek discuss the first four issues of Shade the Changing Girl. This is Cecil Castellucci and Marley Zarcone's revamping of the old Steve Ditko creation (and best popularized in the early 1990s by Peter Milligan and Chris Bachelor), Shade the Changing Man. Their emphasis on the lives of young high school women promises to be a curious spin on the property.

Next, the guys turn to what Andy calls his favorite of the Young Animal line, Jonathan Rivera, Gerard Way, and Michael Avon Oeming's Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye. As they point out, Cave Carson is a character from the early 1960s appearing in both Brave and the Bold and Showcase, but unlike his contemporary Rip Hunter, he never received a title of his own. Way, Rivera, and Oeming are now giving him that opportunity.

The Two Guys conclude their episode with a very different kind of Young Animal title, Jody Houser and Tommy Lee Edwards's Mother Panic. This is the only one of the four series not to be based on Silver Age properties, and it's the only one to be deeply enmeshed into the DC Universe. For that reason, Derek is less enamored with Mother Panic -- at least in terms of the first two issues so far -- feeling that it takes itself too seriously and wonders why this wasn't a regular DC title. Andy has no problem with this Gotham-drenched series.

]]> 6294 yes Webcomics: Reviews of King of the Unknown, Cosmic Dash, and Freedman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-king-of-the-unknown-cosmic-dash-and-freedman Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Catching up after the holidays 00:04:07 - Listener mail! 00:08:18 - King of the Unknown 00:33:42 - Cosmic Dash 01:12:16 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:27:36 - Freedman 01:52:51 - Wrap up 01:53:45 - Contact us It's a new year, and the webcomics guys are back to discuss three intriguing webcomic titles. They begin with Marcus Muller's King of the Unknown, an unusual take on the King of Rock and Roll. You thought he was dead? Well, he's actually alive and kicking (and eating), but now he's working in the shadows as a paranormal investigator. This is a weird and offbeat title that both Sean and Derek can't recommend enough, but it's an ongoing webcomic that hasn't been updated since 2013. There are indications that Muller will return to the story this year, but in the meantime, introduce yourself to the 30 pages that are already available. After that, Sean and Derek take a look at Cosmic Dash by David Davis. The premise is not dissimilar to that of another webcomics the guys discussed, Sean Wang's Runners, but this one is more lighthearted and includes a larger ensemble cast. In fact, the guys spend a lot of time talking about the ensemble nature of the webcomic and how Davis does an outstanding job of providing supplementary material in the way of detailed character descriptions, maps, timelines, design guides, and lore pages. Then, after the guys check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz -- their new webcomic Poe and the Mysteriads launches this month! -- they wrap up the episode with a discussion of an already completed webcomic, Peter Quach's Freedman. This is a short story, only 23 pages, but it's an outstanding example of a tightly written and impactful narrative. As the title suggests, the tale concerns ex-slaves in the aftermath of the Civil War, with one in particular who has difficulty freeing himself from the past. The guys also discuss some of Quach's other short pieces on his website, including the hilarious I Am a Racist (and So Can You). It's a story that certainly resonates as we approach the dark days of the Trump administration. Mon, 09 Jan 2017 14:06:25 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Elvis Has Left the Building Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Catching up after the holidays 00:04:07 - Listener mail! 00:08:18 - King of the Unknown 00:33:42 - Cosmic Dash 01:12:16 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:27:36 - Freedman 01:52:51 - Wrap up 01:53:45 - Contact us It's a new year, and the webcomics guys are back to discuss three intriguing webcomic titles. They begin with Marcus Muller's King of the Unknown, an unusual take on the King of Rock and Roll. You thought he was dead? Well, he's actually alive and kicking (and eating), but now he's working in the shadows as a paranormal investigator. This is a weird and offbeat title that both Sean and Derek can't recommend enough, but it's an ongoing webcomic that hasn't been updated since 2013. There are indications that Muller will return to the story this year, but in the meantime, introduce yourself to the 30 pages that are already available. After that, Sean and Derek take a look at Cosmic Dash by David Davis. The premise is not dissimilar to that of another webcomics the guys discussed, Sean Wang's Runners, but this one is more lighthearted and includes a larger ensemble cast. In fact, the guys spend a lot of time talking about the ensemble nature of the webcomic and how Davis does an outstanding job of providing supplementary material in the way of detailed character descriptions, maps, timelines, design guides, and lore pages. Then, after the guys check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz -- their new webcomic Poe and the Mysteriads launches this month! -- they wrap up the episode with a discussion of an already completed webcomic, Peter Quach's Freedman. This is a short story, only 23 pages, but it's an outstanding example of a tightly written and impactful narrative. As the title suggests, the tale concerns ex-slaves in the aftermath of the Civil War, with one in particular who has difficulty freeing himself from the past. The guys also discuss some of Quach's other short pieces on his website, including the hilarious I Am a Racist (and So Can You). It's a story that certainly resonates as we approach the dark days of the Trump administration.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:28 - Introduction
  • 00:03:03 - Catching up after the holidays
  • 00:04:07 - Listener mail!
  • 00:08:18 - King of the Unknown
  • 00:33:42 - Cosmic Dash
  • 01:12:16 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz
  • 01:27:36 - Freedman
  • 01:52:51 - Wrap up
  • 01:53:45 - Contact us

It's a new year, and the webcomics guys are back to discuss three intriguing webcomic titles. They begin with Marcus Muller's King of the Unknown, an unusual take on the King of Rock and Roll. You thought he was dead? Well, he's actually alive and kicking (and eating), but now he's working in the shadows as a paranormal investigator. This is a weird and offbeat title that both Sean and Derek can't recommend enough, but it's an ongoing webcomic that hasn't been updated since 2013. There are indications that Muller will return to the story this year, but in the meantime, introduce yourself to the 30 pages that are already available.

After that, Sean and Derek take a look at Cosmic Dash by David Davis. The premise is not dissimilar to that of another webcomics the guys discussed, Sean Wang's Runners, but this one is more lighthearted and includes a larger ensemble cast. In fact, the guys spend a lot of time talking about the ensemble nature of the webcomic and how Davis does an outstanding job of providing supplementary material in the way of detailed character descriptions, maps, timelines, design guides, and lore pages.

Then, after the guys check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz -- their new webcomic Poe and the Mysteriads launches this month! -- they wrap up the episode with a discussion of an already completed webcomic, Peter Quach's Freedman. This is a short story, only 23 pages, but it's an outstanding example of a tightly written and impactful narrative. As the title suggests, the tale concerns ex-slaves in the aftermath of the Civil War, with one in particular who has difficulty freeing himself from the past. The guys also discuss some of Quach's other short pieces on his website, including the hilarious I Am a Racist (and So Can You). It's a story that certainly resonates as we approach the dark days of the Trump administration.

]]> 7032 no Episode 221: The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-221-the-january-previews-catalog Happy New Year from the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics! On this, their first regular episode of 2017, Andy and Derek take their monthly gander at the current Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they welcome and thank a couple of new Patreon supporters to the Comics Alternative family, including Alla Rull, who becomes the latest of the guys' official Podcast Patrons. Then they jump headlong into the January Previews, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the interesting fare found in this month's catalog are offerings from: Those participating in Free Comic Book Day and the announcement of their titles! Dark Horse Comics - American Gods: Shadows #1, Rebels: These Free and Independent States #1, The Once and Future Queen #1, Jerry and the Joker: Adventures and Comic Art, and Starslayer DC/Vertigo - Suicide Squad/Banana Splits Annual, The Doom Patrol Silver Age Omnibus, and Savage Things #1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Lennon: The New York Years, Her Bark and Her Bite, LOAC Essentials, Vol. 10: Dan Dunn, Secret Operative, and Star Hawks, Vol. 1 Image Comics - Afar, Royal City #1, Extremity #1, Rat Queens #1, Underwinter #1, and The Complete Phonogram Abrams ComicArts - The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir Amulet Books - One Trick Pony Archie Comics - The Archies One-Shot Avatar Press - Providence #12 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - I Thought You Hated Me BOOM! Studios - Grass Kings #1, Strange Fruit, and The March of the Crabs, Vol. 2 Candlewick Press - Yvain: The Knight of the Lion Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Black Box #1 and Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys: The Big Lie #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero and Terms and Conditions Fantagraphics Books - All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #1, John Stanley: Giving Life to Little Lulu, Eartha, Fante Bukowski Two, Crickets #6, and Ganges #6 First Second - California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas House of Anansi Press - In-Between Days: A Memoir about Living with Cancer Kodansha Comics - Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Plant SelfMadeHero - Fun: Spies, Puzzle Solvers, and a Century of Crosswords Titan Comics - Anno Dracula #1 W.W. Norton - Will Eisner's Contract with God and Other Tenement Stories Quirk Books - The Legion of Regrettable Supervillains: Oddball Criminals from Comic Book History Wed, 04 Jan 2017 14:39:34 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Keillor-Free Zone Happy New Year from the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics! On this, their first regular episode of 2017, Andy and Derek take their monthly gander at the current Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they welcome and thank a couple of new Patreon supporters to the Comics Alternative family, including Alla Rull, who becomes the latest of the guys' official Podcast Patrons. Then they jump headlong into the January Previews, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the interesting fare found in this month's catalog are offerings from: Those participating in Free Comic Book Day and the announcement of their titles! Dark Horse Comics - American Gods: Shadows #1, Rebels: These Free and Independent States #1, The Once and Future Queen #1, Jerry and the Joker: Adventures and Comic Art, and Starslayer DC/Vertigo - Suicide Squad/Banana Splits Annual, The Doom Patrol Silver Age Omnibus, and Savage Things #1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Lennon: The New York Years, Her Bark and Her Bite, LOAC Essentials, Vol. 10: Dan Dunn, Secret Operative, and Star Hawks, Vol. 1 Image Comics - Afar, Royal City #1, Extremity #1, Rat Queens #1, Underwinter #1, and The Complete Phonogram Abrams ComicArts - The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir Amulet Books - One Trick Pony Archie Comics - The Archies One-Shot Avatar Press - Providence #12 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - I Thought You Hated Me BOOM! Studios - Grass Kings #1, Strange Fruit, and The March of the Crabs, Vol. 2 Candlewick Press - Yvain: The Knight of the Lion Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Black Box #1 and Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys: The Big Lie #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero and Terms and Conditions Fantagraphics Books - All Time Comics: Crime Destroyer #1, John Stanley: Giving Life to Little Lulu, Eartha, Fante Bukowski Two, Crickets #6, and Ganges #6 First Second - California Dreamin': Cass Elliot before The Mamas and the Papas House of Anansi Press - In-Between Days: A Memoir about Living with Cancer Kodansha Comics - Ichi-F: A Worker's Graphic Memoir of the Fukushima Nuclear Plant SelfMadeHero - Fun: Spies, Puzzle Solvers, and a Century of Crosswords Titan Comics - Anno Dracula #1 W.W. Norton - Will Eisner's Contract with God and Other Tenement Stories Quirk Books - The Legion of Regrettable Supervillains: Oddball Criminals from Comic Book History

Happy New Year from the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics! On this, their first regular episode of 2017, Andy and Derek take their monthly gander at the current Previews catalog. Before they do that, though, they welcome and thank a couple of new Patreon supporters to the Comics Alternative family, including Alla Rull, who becomes the latest of the guys' official Podcast Patrons. Then they jump headlong into the January Previews, highlighting a variety of upcoming titles from both large and small publishers alike. Among the interesting fare found in this month's catalog are offerings from:

]]> 6960 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Happy New Yoe! http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-happy-new-yoe Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:13 - Setup of interview 00:03:20 - Interview with Craig Yoe 01:25:46 - Wrap up 01:28:58 - Contact us It's a new year, and what better way to bring it in than with another Craig Yoe interview! In what has become a Comics Alternative tradition, the Two Guys with PhDs use their very first episode of the year -- not just their first interview, but their very first podcast release -- to talk with Craig and find out what he's been up to. It's what has become known as the guys' Happy New Yoe show! The fun begins with Andy and Derek asking Craig about his 50th anniversary celebration. As he tells the guys, this year is the golden anniversary of Craig's first contribution to comics culture, a fanzine he published as a kid. And from there, he never looked back. A big part of this celebration is a string of new releases that began late last year. In fact, most of the interview is devoted to a discussion of one of those books, Super Weird Heroes: Outrageous but Real! This is the first of a two-volume -- and maybe a third? -- collection of really strange heroes from comics' Golden Age, written and drawn by some of the medium's most obscure as well as some of its best-known creators. The guys ask Craig about the compilation of this enterprise and its place within the Yoe Books pantheon. They also do deep dives into some of the weirdest of the weird, including the superhero of the cloth The Deacon and his sidekick Mickey; the disembodied hand, The Hand; the crossdressing Madam Fatal; phallic-prone heroes such as Black Cobra, Nature Boy, and The Dart; Kangaroo Man and his Nazi-bashing marsupial pal Bingo; the inexplicable Jeep and Peep; and the nearly naked Phantasmo. Actually, there is a lot of bared flesh to go round in this book. But the Two Guys also ask Craig about some of his other recent books, including The Return of the Zombies, Jay Disbrow's Monster Invasion, Behaving Madly, Reefer Madness, and the next volume in his Weird Love series. It's an understatement to say that there's a lot to look forward to from Yoe Books in the coming year. Craig Yoe is still the most interviewed guest in Comics Alternative history, and you can rest assured that he'll be back a couple of more times to talk about even more releases in the coming year. And a special Happy New Year goes out to Clizia Gussoni, Craig's partner and the engine that keeps Yoe Books running. Thank you for all of your help, Clizia! Mon, 02 Jan 2017 17:18:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Yoessarian Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:13 - Setup of interview 00:03:20 - Interview with Craig Yoe 01:25:46 - Wrap up 01:28:58 - Contact us It's a new year, and what better way to bring it in than with another Craig Yoe interview! In what has become a Comics Alternative tradition, the Two Guys with PhDs use their very first episode of the year -- not just their first interview, but their very first podcast release -- to talk with Craig and find out what he's been up to. It's what has become known as the guys' Happy New Yoe show! The fun begins with Andy and Derek asking Craig about his 50th anniversary celebration. As he tells the guys, this year is the golden anniversary of Craig's first contribution to comics culture, a fanzine he published as a kid. And from there, he never looked back. A big part of this celebration is a string of new releases that began late last year. In fact, most of the interview is devoted to a discussion of one of those books, Super Weird Heroes: Outrageous but Real! This is the first of a two-volume -- and maybe a third? -- collection of really strange heroes from comics' Golden Age, written and drawn by some of the medium's most obscure as well as some of its best-known creators. The guys ask Craig about the compilation of this enterprise and its place within the Yoe Books pantheon. They also do deep dives into some of the weirdest of the weird, including the superhero of the cloth The Deacon and his sidekick Mickey; the disembodied hand, The Hand; the crossdressing Madam Fatal; phallic-prone heroes such as Black Cobra, Nature Boy, and The Dart; Kangaroo Man and his Nazi-bashing marsupial pal Bingo; the inexplicable Jeep and Peep; and the nearly naked Phantasmo. Actually, there is a lot of bared flesh to go round in this book. But the Two Guys also ask Craig about some of his other recent books, including The Return of the Zombies, Jay Disbrow's Monster Invasion, Behaving Madly, Reefer Madness, and the next volume in his Weird Love series. It's an understatement to say that there's a lot to look forward to from Yoe Books in the coming year. Craig Yoe is still the most interviewed guest in Comics Alternative history, and you can rest assured that he'll be back a couple of more times to talk about even more releases in the coming year. And a special Happy New Year goes out to Clizia Gussoni, Craig's partner and the engine that keeps Yoe Books running. Thank you for all of your help, Clizia!

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:13 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:20 - Interview with Craig Yoe
  • 01:25:46 - Wrap up
  • 01:28:58 - Contact us

It's a new year, and what better way to bring it in than with another Craig Yoe interview! In what has become a Comics Alternative tradition, the Two Guys with PhDs use their very first episode of the year -- not just their first interview, but their very first podcast release -- to talk with Craig and find out what he's been up to. It's what has become known as the guys' Happy New Yoe show!

The fun begins with Andy and Derek asking Craig about his 50th anniversary celebration. As he tells the guys, this year is the golden anniversary of Craig's first contribution to comics culture, a fanzine he published as a kid. And from there, he never looked back. A big part of this celebration is a string of new releases that began late last year. In fact, most of the interview is devoted to a discussion of one of those books, Super Weird Heroes: Outrageous but Real! This is the first of a two-volume -- and maybe a third? -- collection of really strange heroes from comics' Golden Age, written and drawn by some of the medium's most obscure as well as some of its best-known creators. The guys ask Craig about the compilation of this enterprise and its place within the Yoe Books pantheon. They also do deep dives into some of the weirdest of the weird, including the superhero of the cloth The Deacon and his sidekick Mickey; the disembodied hand, The Hand; the crossdressing Madam Fatal; phallic-prone heroes such as Black Cobra, Nature Boy, and The Dart; Kangaroo Man and his Nazi-bashing marsupial pal Bingo; the inexplicable Jeep and Peep; and the nearly naked Phantasmo. Actually, there is a lot of bared flesh to go round in this book.

But the Two Guys also ask Craig about some of his other recent books, including The Return of the Zombies, Jay Disbrow's Monster Invasion, Behaving Madly, Reefer Madness, and the next volume in his Weird Love series. It's an understatement to say that there's a lot to look forward to from Yoe Books in the coming year. Craig Yoe is still the most interviewed guest in Comics Alternative history, and you can rest assured that he'll be back a couple of more times to talk about even more releases in the coming year.

And a special Happy New Year goes out to Clizia Gussoni, Craig's partner and the engine that keeps Yoe Books running. Thank you for all of your help, Clizia!

]]> 5586 no Manga: Reviews of Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition and Blame! Vol. 1 & Vol. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-tomie-complete-deluxe-edition-and-blame-vol-1-vol-2 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:37 - The holidays for Shea and Derek 00:04:30 - Listener mail! 00:11:24 - Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition 00:55:39 - Blame! Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 01:19:12 - Wrap up 01:20:08 - Contact us It's the final manga episode of the year, and to close out 2016 Shea and Derek discuss a couple of fascinating new editions of older manga. But first they talk about their holiday activities with one another and then go on to share the listener mail they received about their November manga episode. After that, it's manga time! They begin with Junji Ito's Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition (VIZ Media). This volume brings together all of the previous Tomie stories, initially released in three separate books. As listeners of the podcast may know, Shea and Derek are big fans of Junji Ito, but this is the first time either of the guys have read this series. They point out both the similarities and the differences between this text (especially the early stories) and later Ito works such as Uzumaki and Gyo. Shea is particularly taken by Ito's early, looser illustration style, while Derek focuses on the, at times, goofy scenarios surrounding Tomie. They're weirder than even the most unusual premises you'll find in Junji Ito. After that, the guys turn to Tsutomu Nihei's Blame! This series has also been previously published, but now Vertical Comics is releasing it in new master editions. The second volume was just published this month, and volume 3 is due out in March. So Shea and Derek limit their discussion to the story contained within these first two book. This is an action-heavy manga, and while this kind of graphic storytelling isn't one of Derek's favorites, it's something that Shea absolutely loves. But both guys appreciate the incremental world building and especially Nihei's astounding ability in representing The City, the vast post-apocalyptic landscape in which the story takes place. The bottom line is that both guys love the storyworld and plan to continue reading this series. Fri, 30 Dec 2016 11:41:19 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Creepy and Goofy Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:37 - The holidays for Shea and Derek 00:04:30 - Listener mail! 00:11:24 - Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition 00:55:39 - Blame! Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 01:19:12 - Wrap up 01:20:08 - Contact us It's the final manga episode of the year, and to close out 2016 Shea and Derek discuss a couple of fascinating new editions of older manga. But first they talk about their holiday activities with one another and then go on to share the listener mail they received about their November manga episode. After that, it's manga time! They begin with Junji Ito's Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition (VIZ Media). This volume brings together all of the previous Tomie stories, initially released in three separate books. As listeners of the podcast may know, Shea and Derek are big fans of Junji Ito, but this is the first time either of the guys have read this series. They point out both the similarities and the differences between this text (especially the early stories) and later Ito works such as Uzumaki and Gyo. Shea is particularly taken by Ito's early, looser illustration style, while Derek focuses on the, at times, goofy scenarios surrounding Tomie. They're weirder than even the most unusual premises you'll find in Junji Ito. After that, the guys turn to Tsutomu Nihei's Blame! This series has also been previously published, but now Vertical Comics is releasing it in new master editions. The second volume was just published this month, and volume 3 is due out in March. So Shea and Derek limit their discussion to the story contained within these first two book. This is an action-heavy manga, and while this kind of graphic storytelling isn't one of Derek's favorites, it's something that Shea absolutely loves. But both guys appreciate the incremental world building and especially Nihei's astounding ability in representing The City, the vast post-apocalyptic landscape in which the story takes place. The bottom line is that both guys love the storyworld and plan to continue reading this series.

Time Codes:

It's the final manga episode of the year, and to close out 2016 Shea and Derek discuss a couple of fascinating new editions of older manga. But first they talk about their holiday activities with one another and then go on to share the listener mail they received about their November manga episode. After that, it's manga time! They begin with Junji Ito's Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition (VIZ Media). This volume brings together all of the previous Tomie stories, initially released in three separate books. As listeners of the podcast may know, Shea and Derek are big fans of Junji Ito, but this is the first time either of the guys have read this series. They point out both the similarities and the differences between this text (especially the early stories) and later Ito works such as Uzumaki and Gyo. Shea is particularly taken by Ito's early, looser illustration style, while Derek focuses on the, at times, goofy scenarios surrounding Tomie. They're weirder than even the most unusual premises you'll find in Junji Ito.

After that, the guys turn to Tsutomu Nihei's Blame! This series has also been previously published, but now Vertical Comics is releasing it in new master editions. The second volume was just published this month, and volume 3 is due out in March. So Shea and Derek limit their discussion to the story contained within these first two book. This is an action-heavy manga, and while this kind of graphic storytelling isn't one of Derek's favorites, it's something that Shea absolutely loves. But both guys appreciate the incremental world building and especially Nihei's astounding ability in representing The City, the vast post-apocalyptic landscape in which the story takes place. The bottom line is that both guys love the storyworld and plan to continue reading this series.

]]> 5008 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Bouncer, Western, and Lucky Luke: The Ballad of the Daltons and Other Stories http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-bouncer-western-and-lucky-luke-the-ballad-of-the-daltons-and-other-stories Time Codes: 00:01:27 - Introduction 00:04:39 - Happy holidays! 00:07:00 - Bouncer 00:56:07 - Western 01:14:57 - Lucky Luke: The Ballad of the Daltons and Other Stories 01:35:55 - Wrap up 01:36:41 - Contact us This month's Euro Comics episode is later than usual, due to scheduling conflicts and accessibility issues. But Edward and Derek are back just in time to wish their listeners a happy holiday season and to present their first theme-based show of the monthly series. For December the Two Guys (almost) with PhDs discuss three works in the Western genre. They begin with Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francois Boucq's Bouncer (Humanoids). This new edition collects the first seven volumes of the Jodorowsky's series, comprising three intricate and involved storylines. The guys focus a lot on Jodorowsky's spaghetti western style of storytelling and the unconventional twists therein, including physical grotesques and dominatrix executioners. They also spend time discussing some of the cultural and racial stereotypes found in the narratives, a topic to which they will return later in the episode. Next, Edward and Derek look at two releases from a publisher that's not yet been discussed on The Comics Alternative...an unfortunate oversight, up until now. The UK publisher of Franco-Beligan albums, Cinebook, provides the guys with Jean Van Hamme  and Grzegorz Rosinski's Western and the latest release in René Goscinny and Morris's Lucky Luke series, The Ballad of the Daltons and Other Stories. In the former, Rosinski's beautiful sepia-toned water colors creates a gritty postbellum world that is not unlike Boucq's efforts in Bouncer -- and both revolve around antiheroes with a missing arm. Both guys enjoyed Western, although Derek plays Monday morning quarterback in his thoughts on the book's abrupt shift in narration during the last two pages. With Lucky Luke, Edward begins by focusing on the popularity of the series, but then he mentions the need for more socio-historical context in way of an introduction. The ethnoracial representations in these stories may leave some readers uncomfortable, but they speak to both the time in which they were written and the cultural positioning of the creators. Fri, 23 Dec 2016 19:01:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Yippee Ki-Yay Time Codes: 00:01:27 - Introduction 00:04:39 - Happy holidays! 00:07:00 - Bouncer 00:56:07 - Western 01:14:57 - Lucky Luke: The Ballad of the Daltons and Other Stories 01:35:55 - Wrap up 01:36:41 - Contact us This month's Euro Comics episode is later than usual, due to scheduling conflicts and accessibility issues. But Edward and Derek are back just in time to wish their listeners a happy holiday season and to present their first theme-based show of the monthly series. For December the Two Guys (almost) with PhDs discuss three works in the Western genre. They begin with Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francois Boucq's Bouncer (Humanoids). This new edition collects the first seven volumes of the Jodorowsky's series, comprising three intricate and involved storylines. The guys focus a lot on Jodorowsky's spaghetti western style of storytelling and the unconventional twists therein, including physical grotesques and dominatrix executioners. They also spend time discussing some of the cultural and racial stereotypes found in the narratives, a topic to which they will return later in the episode. Next, Edward and Derek look at two releases from a publisher that's not yet been discussed on The Comics Alternative...an unfortunate oversight, up until now. The UK publisher of Franco-Beligan albums, Cinebook, provides the guys with Jean Van Hamme  and Grzegorz Rosinski's Western and the latest release in René Goscinny and Morris's Lucky Luke series, The Ballad of the Daltons and Other Stories. In the former, Rosinski's beautiful sepia-toned water colors creates a gritty postbellum world that is not unlike Boucq's efforts in Bouncer -- and both revolve around antiheroes with a missing arm. Both guys enjoyed Western, although Derek plays Monday morning quarterback in his thoughts on the book's abrupt shift in narration during the last two pages. With Lucky Luke, Edward begins by focusing on the popularity of the series, but then he mentions the need for more socio-historical context in way of an introduction. The ethnoracial representations in these stories may leave some readers uncomfortable, but they speak to both the time in which they were written and the cultural positioning of the creators.

Time Codes:

This month's Euro Comics episode is later than usual, due to scheduling conflicts and accessibility issues. But Edward and Derek are back just in time to wish their listeners a happy holiday season and to present their first theme-based show of the monthly series. For December the Two Guys (almost) with PhDs discuss three works in the Western genre. They begin with Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francois Boucq's Bouncer (Humanoids). This new edition collects the first seven volumes of the Jodorowsky's series, comprising three intricate and involved storylines. The guys focus a lot on Jodorowsky's spaghetti western style of storytelling and the unconventional twists therein, including physical grotesques and dominatrix executioners. They also spend time discussing some of the cultural and racial stereotypes found in the narratives, a topic to which they will return later in the episode.

Next, Edward and Derek look at two releases from a publisher that's not yet been discussed on The Comics Alternative...an unfortunate oversight, up until now. The UK publisher of Franco-Beligan albums, Cinebook, provides the guys with Jean Van Hamme  and Grzegorz Rosinski's Western and the latest release in René Goscinny and Morris's Lucky Luke series, The Ballad of the Daltons and Other Stories. In the former, Rosinski's beautiful sepia-toned water colors creates a gritty postbellum world that is not unlike Boucq's efforts in Bouncer -- and both revolve around antiheroes with a missing arm. Both guys enjoyed Western, although Derek plays Monday morning quarterback in his thoughts on the book's abrupt shift in narration during the last two pages. With Lucky Luke, Edward begins by focusing on the popularity of the series, but then he mentions the need for more socio-historical context in way of an introduction. The ethnoracial representations in these stories may leave some readers uncomfortable, but they speak to both the time in which they were written and the cultural positioning of the creators.

]]> 5991 no Episode 219: Review of Best American Comics 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-219-review-of-best-american-comics-2016 Time Codes: 00:01:30 - Introduction 00:03:21 - News and updates 00:12:05 - Best American Comics 2016 01:07:29 - Wrap up 01:08:37 - Contact us Every year the Two Guys with PhDs use the final two episodes of the year as a respective, a look back at some of the best comics out there. Next week they'll release their own favorites of the past twelve months, but for this, their penultimate show of the year, Andy and Derek discuss what others consider outstanding. The 2016 volume Best American Comics, edited by cartoonist Roz Chast (and with series editor Bill Kartalopoulos), includes thirty contributions from a variety of creators and displaying a wide range of styles and storytelling strategies. These comics were originally published between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2015, and in many cases they include titles that the guys have discussed on past episodes. (For insights into the selection process for this volume, check out the previously published interview with Bill Kartalopoulos.) As the guys point out, there are entries in this collection that should come as no surprise to comics readers -- e.g., Adrian Tomine's "Killing and Dying," Drew Friedman's "R. Crumb and Me," various Kate Beaton strips, and excerpts from Richard McGuire's Here and Chris Ware's The Last Saturday -- but some of the most notable contributions are from artists with whom the guys weren't yet familiar, or are selections that might not be on most readers' "Best of" lists. As you'll hear on this episode, Derek and Andy are excited to discover the work of Taylor-Ruth Baldwin, Sophia Zdon, Lance Ward, and Char Esmé, while at the same time they are glad to see recognition of works by Joe Ollmann, John Porcellino, Keiler Roberts, and Nina Bunjevac. But every piece in this anthology is worthy of attention, as are the various titles listed in its "Notable Comics" section at the very end. With a new year on the horizon, it's always useful to look back at those comics that have helped define where we are today. And as the guys point out, the annual Best American Comics volumes are some of the gauges out there. Wed, 21 Dec 2016 12:49:06 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Thanks, Roz! Time Codes: 00:01:30 - Introduction 00:03:21 - News and updates 00:12:05 - Best American Comics 2016 01:07:29 - Wrap up 01:08:37 - Contact us Every year the Two Guys with PhDs use the final two episodes of the year as a respective, a look back at some of the best comics out there. Next week they'll release their own favorites of the past twelve months, but for this, their penultimate show of the year, Andy and Derek discuss what others consider outstanding. The 2016 volume Best American Comics, edited by cartoonist Roz Chast (and with series editor Bill Kartalopoulos), includes thirty contributions from a variety of creators and displaying a wide range of styles and storytelling strategies. These comics were originally published between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2015, and in many cases they include titles that the guys have discussed on past episodes. (For insights into the selection process for this volume, check out the previously published interview with Bill Kartalopoulos.) As the guys point out, there are entries in this collection that should come as no surprise to comics readers -- e.g., Adrian Tomine's "Killing and Dying," Drew Friedman's "R. Crumb and Me," various Kate Beaton strips, and excerpts from Richard McGuire's Here and Chris Ware's The Last Saturday -- but some of the most notable contributions are from artists with whom the guys weren't yet familiar, or are selections that might not be on most readers' "Best of" lists. As you'll hear on this episode, Derek and Andy are excited to discover the work of Taylor-Ruth Baldwin, Sophia Zdon, Lance Ward, and Char Esmé, while at the same time they are glad to see recognition of works by Joe Ollmann, John Porcellino, Keiler Roberts, and Nina Bunjevac. But every piece in this anthology is worthy of attention, as are the various titles listed in its "Notable Comics" section at the very end. With a new year on the horizon, it's always useful to look back at those comics that have helped define where we are today. And as the guys point out, the annual Best American Comics volumes are some of the gauges out there.

Time Codes:

  • 00:01:30 - Introduction
  • 00:03:21 - News and updates
  • 00:12:05 - Best American Comics 2016
  • 01:07:29 - Wrap up
  • 01:08:37 - Contact us

Every year the Two Guys with PhDs use the final two episodes of the year as a respective, a look back at some of the best comics out there. Next week they'll release their own favorites of the past twelve months, but for this, their penultimate show of the year, Andy and Derek discuss what others consider outstanding. The 2016 volume Best American Comics, edited by cartoonist Roz Chast (and with series editor Bill Kartalopoulos), includes thirty contributions from a variety of creators and displaying a wide range of styles and storytelling strategies. These comics were originally published between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2015, and in many cases they include titles that the guys have discussed on past episodes. (For insights into the selection process for this volume, check out the previously published interview with Bill Kartalopoulos.) As the guys point out, there are entries in this collection that should come as no surprise to comics readers -- e.g., Adrian Tomine's "Killing and Dying," Drew Friedman's "R. Crumb and Me," various Kate Beaton strips, and excerpts from Richard McGuire's Here and Chris Ware's The Last Saturday -- but some of the most notable contributions are from artists with whom the guys weren't yet familiar, or are selections that might not be on most readers' "Best of" lists. As you'll hear on this episode, Derek and Andy are excited to discover the work of Taylor-Ruth Baldwin, Sophia Zdon, Lance Ward, and Char Esmé, while at the same time they are glad to see recognition of works by Joe Ollmann, John Porcellino, Keiler Roberts, and Nina Bunjevac. But every piece in this anthology is worthy of attention, as are the various titles listed in its "Notable Comics" section at the very end. With a new year on the horizon, it's always useful to look back at those comics that have helped define where we are today. And as the guys point out, the annual Best American Comics volumes are some of the gauges out there.

]]> 4391 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Bill Kartalopoulos http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-bill-kartalopoulos Time Codes: 00:01:20 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Setup of interview 00:04:13 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos 01:17:31 - Wrap up 01:18:53 - Contact us Andy and Derek are pleased to have back on their podcast Bill Kartalopoulos, the general editor of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Best American Comics series. He was on the show two years ago to discuss the 2014 volume of Best American Comics, that one guest-edited by Scott McCloud and Bill's first after assuming editorship. This time around the Two Guys talk with him about the latest volume guest edited by Roz Chast. They specifically ask Bill about his experiences in working with Chast, a cartoonist who brings a very different sensibility to anthology. Most of the conversation is devoted to the process of pulling together each year's volume, and Bill goes into great detail in explaining both his and his guest editors' roles. But they also discuss the specific contributions to the 2016 edition, the decision-making behind those selections, and the many discoveries Bill and Roz made along the way. Tue, 20 Dec 2016 12:46:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Best Time Codes: 00:01:20 - Introduction 00:03:07 - Setup of interview 00:04:13 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos 01:17:31 - Wrap up 01:18:53 - Contact us Andy and Derek are pleased to have back on their podcast Bill Kartalopoulos, the general editor of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Best American Comics series. He was on the show two years ago to discuss the 2014 volume of Best American Comics, that one guest-edited by Scott McCloud and Bill's first after assuming editorship. This time around the Two Guys talk with him about the latest volume guest edited by Roz Chast. They specifically ask Bill about his experiences in working with Chast, a cartoonist who brings a very different sensibility to anthology. Most of the conversation is devoted to the process of pulling together each year's volume, and Bill goes into great detail in explaining both his and his guest editors' roles. But they also discuss the specific contributions to the 2016 edition, the decision-making behind those selections, and the many discoveries Bill and Roz made along the way.

Time Codes:

  • 00:01:20 - Introduction
  • 00:03:07 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:13 - Interview with Bill Kartalopoulos
  • 01:17:31 - Wrap up
  • 01:18:53 - Contact us

Andy and Derek are pleased to have back on their podcast Bill Kartalopoulos, the general editor of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Best American Comics series. He was on the show two years ago to discuss the 2014 volume of Best American Comics, that one guest-edited by Scott McCloud and Bill's first after assuming editorship. This time around the Two Guys talk with him about the latest volume guest edited by Roz Chast. They specifically ask Bill about his experiences in working with Chast, a cartoonist who brings a very different sensibility to anthology. Most of the conversation is devoted to the process of pulling together each year's volume, and Bill goes into great detail in explaining both his and his guest editors' roles. But they also discuss the specific contributions to the 2016 edition, the decision-making behind those selections, and the many discoveries Bill and Roz made along the way.

]]> 4905 no On Location: The December Visit to Valhalla Games and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-december-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comics For the December on-location episode at Valhalla Games and Comics, Derek talks with customers and shop employees about their favorite comics from the past twelve months. This is a look back at the various series, events, collections, and original graphic novels that made the biggest impressions in 2016. Joining in on the conversation are some of the usuals -- Stephanie, Matt, and Craig -- but Josh, a new fan of the shop and of the podcast, shows up to share his thoughts, as well. As might be expected, most of the titles discussed are from the Big Two universes, but there are a number of other titles that also resonated. One of the big takeaways from this conversation is the possible fatigue that is setting in when it comes to superhero events, especially as it relates to Marvel Comics. However, for some readers, a bright counterbalance can be found in IDW's "Revolution"crossover event. Did 2016 really, really suck? Yes, especially when it comes to politics and the possibility of social progress. But regarding comics culture, the guys at Valhalla Games and Comics have a different opinion. Josh, Craig, and Stephanie discuss their favorites of 2016. Fri, 16 Dec 2016 13:50:26 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Event Fatigue? For the December on-location episode at Valhalla Games and Comics, Derek talks with customers and shop employees about their favorite comics from the past twelve months. This is a look back at the various series, events, collections, and original graphic novels that made the biggest impressions in 2016. Joining in on the conversation are some of the usuals -- Stephanie, Matt, and Craig -- but Josh, a new fan of the shop and of the podcast, shows up to share his thoughts, as well. As might be expected, most of the titles discussed are from the Big Two universes, but there are a number of other titles that also resonated. One of the big takeaways from this conversation is the possible fatigue that is setting in when it comes to superhero events, especially as it relates to Marvel Comics. However, for some readers, a bright counterbalance can be found in IDW's "Revolution"crossover event. Did 2016 really, really suck? Yes, especially when it comes to politics and the possibility of social progress. But regarding comics culture, the guys at Valhalla Games and Comics have a different opinion. Josh, Craig, and Stephanie discuss their favorites of 2016. For the December on-location episode at Valhalla Games and Comics, Derek talks with customers and shop employees about their favorite comics from the past twelve months. This is a look back at the various series, events, collections, and original graphic novels that made the biggest impressions in 2016. Joining in on the conversation are some of the usuals -- Stephanie, Matt, and Craig -- but Josh, a new fan of the shop and of the podcast, shows up to share his thoughts, as well. As might be expected, most of the titles discussed are from the Big Two universes, but there are a number of other titles that also resonated. One of the big takeaways from this conversation is the possible fatigue that is setting in when it comes to superhero events, especially as it relates to Marvel Comics. However, for some readers, a bright counterbalance can be found in IDW's "Revolution"crossover event.

Did 2016 really, really suck? Yes, especially when it comes to politics and the possibility of social progress. But regarding comics culture, the guys at Valhalla Games and Comics have a different opinion.

Josh, Craig, and Stephanie discuss their favorites of 2016. ]]> 4880 no Young Readers: The Best of 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-the-best-of-2016 Gwen and Andy both are astounded that the end of the year is almost upon them, and with that in mind, they’ve picked their favorite books of 2016 for young readers. The Two People with PhDs each picked five books in the children’s category and five books in the intermediate/young adult (YA) category, but something odd happened: their lists were almost identical! In the children’s category, Gwen and Andy both chose the following four books, many of which they have already discussed on previous episodes. Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: Alamo All-Stars, by Nathan Hale (Harry N. Abrams) Hippopotamister, by John Patrick Green (First Second) The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, by Drew Weing (First Second) Bera the One-Headed Troll, by Eric Orchard (First Second) Andy diverged by picking Bert’s Way Home, by John Martz (Koyama Press), the story of an orphan named Bert who’s no regular orphan, but an orphan of time and space, stranded on Earth after a cosmic accident. Gwen’s final pick in this category was Blip! a TOON Level 1 book by Barnaby Richards about a robot whose vocabulary consists of only one word (“Blip”) as he tries to find his way through an unfamiliar planet. In the Intermediate/YA category, Gwen and Andy also agree on their first four titles: March: Book Three, by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf), the third and final book in the March trilogy. March: Book Three is also a noteworthy book in that it recently won the prestigious National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, becoming the first graphic novel to win the award. Camp Midnight, by Steven T. Seagle and Jason Adam Katzenstein (Image) Paper Girls, Vol. 1, by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang (Image) Snow White, by Matt Phelan (Candlewick Press) The two people with PhDs also had the great pleasure of interviewing Matt Phelan on the show last month. You can listen to that interview here. Andy’s final choice was Mighty Jack, by Ben Hatke, a title previously discussed on the show back in August. For Gwen’s final choice, she picked Delilah Dirk and the King’s Shilling, by Tony Cliff (First Second), a book previously discussed by Derek and Sean in its original webcomics format. This volume picks up where the first volume, 2013's Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant, left off. At the end of the show, Gwen mentioned a new all ages wordless comic that she learned about on Dr. Debbie Reese’s excellent American Indians in Children’s Literature blog, Jonathan Nelson’s The Wool of Jonesy: Part I, published by Native Realities Press. Here is the blurb from the publisher’s website: Written and illustrated by Diné artist Jonathan Nelson, The Wool of Jonesy #1 tells the first story of Jonesy the Sheep and his adventures out on the rez. As Jonesy heads out to explore life after high school he finds himself discovering and dreaming. The wonderfully illustrated story gives young and old alike a simple and enchanting view of reservation life through the eyes of an amazing character! Readers can check out Debbie Reese’s review. Gwen and Andy hope that these titles might be considered for gift for the holiday season. You really can’t go wrong with any of these titles. We can’t wait to see what great comics are in store for us in 2017. You can be sure we’ll pass all the information along to you. Happy reading! Thu, 15 Dec 2016 13:27:15 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Great Minds… Gwen and Andy both are astounded that the end of the year is almost upon them, and with that in mind, they’ve picked their favorite books of 2016 for young readers. The Two People with PhDs each picked five books in the children’s category and five books in the intermediate/young adult (YA) category, but something odd happened: their lists were almost identical! In the children’s category, Gwen and Andy both chose the following four books, many of which they have already discussed on previous episodes. Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: Alamo All-Stars, by Nathan Hale (Harry N. Abrams) Hippopotamister, by John Patrick Green (First Second) The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, by Drew Weing (First Second) Bera the One-Headed Troll, by Eric Orchard (First Second) Andy diverged by picking Bert’s Way Home, by John Martz (Koyama Press), the story of an orphan named Bert who’s no regular orphan, but an orphan of time and space, stranded on Earth after a cosmic accident. Gwen’s final pick in this category was Blip! a TOON Level 1 book by Barnaby Richards about a robot whose vocabulary consists of only one word (“Blip”) as he tries to find his way through an unfamiliar planet. In the Intermediate/YA category, Gwen and Andy also agree on their first four titles: March: Book Three, by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf), the third and final book in the March trilogy. March: Book Three is also a noteworthy book in that it recently won the prestigious National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, becoming the first graphic novel to win the award. Camp Midnight, by Steven T. Seagle and Jason Adam Katzenstein (Image) Paper Girls, Vol. 1, by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang (Image) Snow White, by Matt Phelan (Candlewick Press) The two people with PhDs also had the great pleasure of interviewing Matt Phelan on the show last month. You can listen to that interview here. Andy’s final choice was Mighty Jack, by Ben Hatke, a title previously discussed on the show back in August. For Gwen’s final choice, she picked Delilah Dirk and the King’s Shilling, by Tony Cliff (First Second), a book previously discussed by Derek and Sean in its original webcomics format. This volume picks up where the first volume, 2013's Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant, left off. At the end of the show, Gwen mentioned a new all ages wordless comic that she learned about on Dr. Debbie Reese’s excellent American Indians in Children’s Literature blog, Jonathan Nelson’s The Wool of Jonesy: Part I, published by Native Realities Press. Here is the blurb from the publisher’s website: Written and illustrated by Diné artist Jonathan Nelson, The Wool of Jonesy #1 tells the first story of Jonesy the Sheep and his adventures out on the rez. As Jonesy heads out to explore life after high school he finds himself discovering and dreaming. The wonderfully illustrated story gives young and old alike a simple and enchanting view of reservation life through the eyes of an amazing character! Readers can check out Debbie Reese’s review. Gwen and Andy hope that these titles might be considered for gift for the holiday season. You really can’t go wrong with any of these titles. We can’t wait to see what great comics are in store for us in 2017. You can be sure we’ll pass all the information along to you. Happy reading!

Gwen and Andy both are astounded that the end of the year is almost upon them, and with that in mind, they’ve picked their favorite books of 2016 for young readers. The Two People with PhDs each picked five books in the children’s category and five books in the intermediate/young adult (YA) category, but something odd happened: their lists were almost identical!

In the children’s category, Gwen and Andy both chose the following four books, many of which they have already discussed on previous episodes.

Andy diverged by picking Bert’s Way Home, by John Martz (Koyama Press), the story of an orphan named Bert who’s no regular orphan, but an orphan of time and space, stranded on Earth after a cosmic accident.

Gwen’s final pick in this category was Blip! a TOON Level 1 book by Barnaby Richards about a robot whose vocabulary consists of only one word (“Blip”) as he tries to find his way through an unfamiliar planet.

In the Intermediate/YA category, Gwen and Andy also agree on their first four titles:

  • March: Book Three, by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf), the third and final book in the March trilogy. March: Book Three is also a noteworthy book in that it recently won the prestigious National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, becoming the first graphic novel to win the award.
  • Camp Midnight, by Steven T. Seagle and Jason Adam Katzenstein (Image)
  • Paper Girls, Vol. 1, by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang (Image)
  • Snow White, by Matt Phelan (Candlewick Press)

The two people with PhDs also had the great pleasure of interviewing Matt Phelan on the show last month. You can listen to that interview here.

Andy’s final choice was Mighty Jack, by Ben Hatke, a title previously discussed on the show back in August.

For Gwen’s final choice, she picked Delilah Dirk and the King’s Shilling, by Tony Cliff (First Second), a book previously discussed by Derek and Sean in its original webcomics format. This volume picks up where the first volume, 2013's Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant, left off.

At the end of the show, Gwen mentioned a new all ages wordless comic that she learned about on Dr. Debbie Reese’s excellent American Indians in Children’s Literature blog, Jonathan Nelson’s The Wool of Jonesy: Part I, published by Native Realities Press. Here is the blurb from the publisher’s website:

Written and illustrated by Diné artist Jonathan Nelson, The Wool of Jonesy #1 tells the first story of Jonesy the Sheep and his adventures out on the rez. As Jonesy heads out to explore life after high school he finds himself discovering and dreaming. The wonderfully illustrated story gives young and old alike a simple and enchanting view of reservation life through the eyes of an amazing character!

Readers can check out Debbie Reese’s review.

Gwen and Andy hope that these titles might be considered for gift for the holiday season. You really can’t go wrong with any of these titles. We can’t wait to see what great comics are in store for us in 2017. You can be sure we’ll pass all the information along to you. Happy reading!

]]> 4699 no Episode 218: Reviews of Love and Rockets #1, Garden of the Flesh, and The One Hundred Nights of Hero http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-218-reviews-of-love-and-rockets-1-garden-of-the-flesh-and-the-one-hundred-nights-of-hero Time Codes: 00:01:22 - Introduction 00:03:41 - Support us on Patreon! 00:05:54 - Love and Rockets #1 00:40:27 - Garden of the Flesh 00:59:56 - The One Hundred Nights of Hero 01:20:10 - Wrap up 01:21:28 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics check out three recent titles, including the latest contributions from the Hernandez brothers. They begin with Love and Rockets #1 (Fantagraphics), the launch of the brothers' new (fourth) series that will appear quarterly and in magazine-sized format. This kind of presentation harkens back to the original run of Love and Rockets beginning in the early 1980s. Andy and Derek are quick to point out that, while the format may have changed, the storytelling picks up where the Love and Rockets: New Stories annual left off. Jaime continues his previous storylines surrounding Princess Animus, Vivian's half-sister Tonta, and, perhaps most notable, Maggie and Hopey's punk reunion. With Gilbert, it's the always evolving and convoluted Fritz saga, with even more Fritz imitators to keep track of. And on the topic of Beto...The next book under discussion is his Garden of the Flesh (Fantagraphics). This is Gilbert's treatment of the Book of Genesis, although with less fidelity than Robert Crumb has demonstrated. As you might expect, there's a lot of explicit content, something that you might find in his Blubber series. In fact, the guys note that what we have with Garden of the Flesh is the story of Adam and Eve and the story of Noah and the flood...but with a lot of money shots. Finally, Andy and Derek turn to Isabel Greenberg's The One Hundred Nights of Hero (Little Brown). This is her follow up to 2014's The Encyclopedia of Early Earth, and everything is set in the same storyworld. Here we find the return of god/creator BirdMan and his children Kid and Kiddo. And as with Greenberg's first book, the overriding theme in The One Hundred Nights of Hero is storytelling. This time around, however, that theme is linked directly to female empowerment and sisterhood. With more than a tip of the pen to One Thousand and One Arabian Nights, Greenberg's tale demonstrates not only how worlds are created through language, but the dynamics underlying the control of those worlds. Wed, 14 Dec 2016 15:46:32 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Testicle Jones Time Codes: 00:01:22 - Introduction 00:03:41 - Support us on Patreon! 00:05:54 - Love and Rockets #1 00:40:27 - Garden of the Flesh 00:59:56 - The One Hundred Nights of Hero 01:20:10 - Wrap up 01:21:28 - Contact us This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics check out three recent titles, including the latest contributions from the Hernandez brothers. They begin with Love and Rockets #1 (Fantagraphics), the launch of the brothers' new (fourth) series that will appear quarterly and in magazine-sized format. This kind of presentation harkens back to the original run of Love and Rockets beginning in the early 1980s. Andy and Derek are quick to point out that, while the format may have changed, the storytelling picks up where the Love and Rockets: New Stories annual left off. Jaime continues his previous storylines surrounding Princess Animus, Vivian's half-sister Tonta, and, perhaps most notable, Maggie and Hopey's punk reunion. With Gilbert, it's the always evolving and convoluted Fritz saga, with even more Fritz imitators to keep track of. And on the topic of Beto...The next book under discussion is his Garden of the Flesh (Fantagraphics). This is Gilbert's treatment of the Book of Genesis, although with less fidelity than Robert Crumb has demonstrated. As you might expect, there's a lot of explicit content, something that you might find in his Blubber series. In fact, the guys note that what we have with Garden of the Flesh is the story of Adam and Eve and the story of Noah and the flood...but with a lot of money shots. Finally, Andy and Derek turn to Isabel Greenberg's The One Hundred Nights of Hero (Little Brown). This is her follow up to 2014's The Encyclopedia of Early Earth, and everything is set in the same storyworld. Here we find the return of god/creator BirdMan and his children Kid and Kiddo. And as with Greenberg's first book, the overriding theme in The One Hundred Nights of Hero is storytelling. This time around, however, that theme is linked directly to female empowerment and sisterhood. With more than a tip of the pen to One Thousand and One Arabian Nights, Greenberg's tale demonstrates not only how worlds are created through language, but the dynamics underlying the control of those worlds.

Time Codes:

This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics check out three recent titles, including the latest contributions from the Hernandez brothers. They begin with Love and Rockets #1 (Fantagraphics), the launch of the brothers' new (fourth) series that will appear quarterly and in magazine-sized format. This kind of presentation harkens back to the original run of Love and Rockets beginning in the early 1980s. Andy and Derek are quick to point out that, while the format may have changed, the storytelling picks up where the Love and Rockets: New Stories annual left off. Jaime continues his previous storylines surrounding Princess Animus, Vivian's half-sister Tonta, and, perhaps most notable, Maggie and Hopey's punk reunion. With Gilbert, it's the always evolving and convoluted Fritz saga, with even more Fritz imitators to keep track of.

And on the topic of Beto...The next book under discussion is his Garden of the Flesh (Fantagraphics). This is Gilbert's treatment of the Book of Genesis, although with less fidelity than Robert Crumb has demonstrated. As you might expect, there's a lot of explicit content, something that you might find in his Blubber series. In fact, the guys note that what we have with Garden of the Flesh is the story of Adam and Eve and the story of Noah and the flood...but with a lot of money shots.

Finally, Andy and Derek turn to Isabel Greenberg's The One Hundred Nights of Hero (Little Brown). This is her follow up to 2014's The Encyclopedia of Early Earth, and everything is set in the same storyworld. Here we find the return of god/creator BirdMan and his children Kid and Kiddo. And as with Greenberg's first book, the overriding theme in The One Hundred Nights of Hero is storytelling. This time around, however, that theme is linked directly to female empowerment and sisterhood. With more than a tip of the pen to One Thousand and One Arabian Nights, Greenberg's tale demonstrates not only how worlds are created through language, but the dynamics underlying the control of those worlds.

]]> 5073 yes Webcomics: Reviews of Theatrics, The Monster Under the Bed, and Demonology 101 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-theatrics-the-monster-under-the-bed-and-demonology-101 Time Codes: 00:01:27 - Introduction 00:04:11 - Listener mail! 00:12:12 - Theatrics 00:40:55 - The Monster Under the Bed 00:58:11 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:16:17 - Demonology 101 01:41:47 - Wrap up 01:43:19 - Contact us For their last webcomics episode of 2016, Sean and Derek discuss three titles that were completely new to both of them. They begin with Theatrics, Neil Gibson's period drama set in 1920s New York. With art by Leonardo Gonzales and Jan Wijngaaard on colors, Theatrics is the story of popular Broadway actor who must find another line of work after he's physically disfigured due to a brutal mugging. Next, they turn to Brandon Shane's The Monster Under the Bed, a Romeo and Juliet-inspired romance between human and monster. As the guys point out, the art style has an all-age or "innocent" feel to it, but Shane's penchant for occasional nudity and cheesecake illustration may not be to all readers' liking. And then Derek and Sean wrap up with Faith Erin Hicks's Demonology 101. This is a very early work from a creator who has been making quite a name for herself in print -- e.g., Friends with Boys, Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong, and The Nameless City -- and the guys focus not only on the story, but on the webcomic as a touchstone of Hick's artistic growth. The Two Guys also check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz about their soon-to-be-launched webcomics, Poe and the Mysteriads...although Paul is unable to join in due to a winter cold. Nonetheless, Jim catches the guys up on what has been happening with the webcomic's development, including new art and the creators' various plans for their January 1st debut. Be sure to check in at the first of the new year at http://mysteriads.com. And visit their Facebook page for more details!   Mon, 12 Dec 2016 14:47:24 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Monster Cheesecake Time Codes: 00:01:27 - Introduction 00:04:11 - Listener mail! 00:12:12 - Theatrics 00:40:55 - The Monster Under the Bed 00:58:11 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:16:17 - Demonology 101 01:41:47 - Wrap up 01:43:19 - Contact us For their last webcomics episode of 2016, Sean and Derek discuss three titles that were completely new to both of them. They begin with Theatrics, Neil Gibson's period drama set in 1920s New York. With art by Leonardo Gonzales and Jan Wijngaaard on colors, Theatrics is the story of popular Broadway actor who must find another line of work after he's physically disfigured due to a brutal mugging. Next, they turn to Brandon Shane's The Monster Under the Bed, a Romeo and Juliet-inspired romance between human and monster. As the guys point out, the art style has an all-age or "innocent" feel to it, but Shane's penchant for occasional nudity and cheesecake illustration may not be to all readers' liking. And then Derek and Sean wrap up with Faith Erin Hicks's Demonology 101. This is a very early work from a creator who has been making quite a name for herself in print -- e.g., Friends with Boys, Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong, and The Nameless City -- and the guys focus not only on the story, but on the webcomic as a touchstone of Hick's artistic growth. The Two Guys also check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz about their soon-to-be-launched webcomics, Poe and the Mysteriads...although Paul is unable to join in due to a winter cold. Nonetheless, Jim catches the guys up on what has been happening with the webcomic's development, including new art and the creators' various plans for their January 1st debut. Be sure to check in at the first of the new year at http://mysteriads.com. And visit their Facebook page for more details!  

Time Codes:

For their last webcomics episode of 2016, Sean and Derek discuss three titles that were completely new to both of them. They begin with Theatrics, Neil Gibson's period drama set in 1920s New York. With art by Leonardo Gonzales and Jan Wijngaaard on colors, Theatrics is the story of popular Broadway actor who must find another line of work after he's physically disfigured due to a brutal mugging. Next, they turn to Brandon Shane's The Monster Under the Bed, a Romeo and Juliet-inspired romance between human and monster. As the guys point out, the art style has an all-age or "innocent" feel to it, but Shane's penchant for occasional nudity and cheesecake illustration may not be to all readers' liking. And then Derek and Sean wrap up with Faith Erin Hicks's Demonology 101. This is a very early work from a creator who has been making quite a name for herself in print -- e.g., Friends with Boys, Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong, and The Nameless City -- and the guys focus not only on the story, but on the webcomic as a touchstone of Hick's artistic growth.

The Two Guys also check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz about their soon-to-be-launched webcomics, Poe and the Mysteriads...although Paul is unable to join in due to a winter cold. Nonetheless, Jim catches the guys up on what has been happening with the webcomic's development, including new art and the creators' various plans for their January 1st debut. Be sure to check in at the first of the new year at http://mysteriads.com. And visit their Facebook page for more details!

 

]]> 6457 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Charles Soule and Ryan Browne http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-charles-soule-and-ryan-browne Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:40 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Charles Soule and Ryan Browne 01:07:49 - Wrap up 01:09:44 - Contact us On this episode the Two Guys get a kick out of talking with Charles Soule and Ryan Browne. The first issue of their new series Curse Words will be released on January 18, but the guys wanted to have them on The Comics Alternative this early December so that they can encourage listeners to preorder that issue before the December 19 cutoff date. In this interview, Andy and Derek talk with the creators about their offbeat Image series and what went into creation of such an unusual narrative world. Both Ryan and Charles have been on the podcast separately before -- Ryan talking about God Hates Astronauts and Charles for his Letter 44 series -- but getting the two of them together for one interview is like combining unstable chemicals. And the conversation reveals this kind of wild volatility as the creators discuss the genesis of Curse Words, the history behind their collaborative efforts, and the wackiness planned for the series...including a van tour to promote the comic this summer. Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters will have nothing on these guys. Be sure to keep up with all of the hullabaloo at the official Curse Words website! Fri, 09 Dec 2016 15:58:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wizord World Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:40 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Charles Soule and Ryan Browne 01:07:49 - Wrap up 01:09:44 - Contact us On this episode the Two Guys get a kick out of talking with Charles Soule and Ryan Browne. The first issue of their new series Curse Words will be released on January 18, but the guys wanted to have them on The Comics Alternative this early December so that they can encourage listeners to preorder that issue before the December 19 cutoff date. In this interview, Andy and Derek talk with the creators about their offbeat Image series and what went into creation of such an unusual narrative world. Both Ryan and Charles have been on the podcast separately before -- Ryan talking about God Hates Astronauts and Charles for his Letter 44 series -- but getting the two of them together for one interview is like combining unstable chemicals. And the conversation reveals this kind of wild volatility as the creators discuss the genesis of Curse Words, the history behind their collaborative efforts, and the wackiness planned for the series...including a van tour to promote the comic this summer. Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters will have nothing on these guys. Be sure to keep up with all of the hullabaloo at the official Curse Words website!

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:40 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:56 - Interview with Charles Soule and Ryan Browne
  • 01:07:49 - Wrap up
  • 01:09:44 - Contact us

On this episode the Two Guys get a kick out of talking with Charles Soule and Ryan Browne. The first issue of their new series Curse Words will be released on January 18, but the guys wanted to have them on The Comics Alternative this early December so that they can encourage listeners to preorder that issue before the December 19 cutoff date. In this interview, Andy and Derek talk with the creators about their offbeat Image series and what went into creation of such an unusual narrative world. Both Ryan and Charles have been on the podcast separately before -- Ryan talking about God Hates Astronauts and Charles for his Letter 44 series -- but getting the two of them together for one interview is like combining unstable chemicals. And the conversation reveals this kind of wild volatility as the creators discuss the genesis of Curse Words, the history behind their collaborative efforts, and the wackiness planned for the series...including a van tour to promote the comic this summer. Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters will have nothing on these guys.

Be sure to keep up with all of the hullabaloo at the official Curse Words website!

]]> 4375 yes Episode 217: The December Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-217-the-december-previews-catalog The Two Guys with PhDs are back for their final Previews show of 2016. In this episode, Andy and Derek do what they usually do, going through the current catalog from not quite beginning to end, highlighting the offerings from the premiere publishers as well as from small presses. Among the solicitations they note are offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - The Visitor: How and Why He Stayed #1, The EC Archives: The Haunt of Fear, Vol. 4, and Soupy Leaves Home DC/Vertigo - The Wild Storm #1 and Jack of Fables: The Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Cosmic Scoundrels #1, Animal Noir #1, Chester 5000: Isabelle & George, and Fiction House: From Pulps to Panels Image Comics - The Old Guard #1, Black History in Its Own Words, Sun Bakery #1, The Belfry, and Revival #47 Alternative Comics - Fancy Froglin: Uncensored and Foggy Notions Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Lovers in the Garden BOOM! Studios - Death Be Damned #1 and The Realist: Plug and Play Campfire - The Beatles: All Our Yesterdays Drawn and Quarterly - Fire!! The Zora Neale Hurston Story and Spaniel Rage Fantagraphics Books - My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, The Interview, Excavation, The Draw of Sport, To Have and to Hold, and Love & Rockets #2 First Second - Decelerate Blue and Demon, Vol. 2 Hermes Press - Walt Kelly's The Adventures of Peter Wheat: The Complete Series, Vol. 1 Humanoids - Snow Day and Koma Magnetic Press - Doomboy and Golem NBM - A Treasury of Twentieth-Century Murder Compendium New York Review Comics - Pretending Is Lying Nobrow - Nightlights Oni Press - Small Favors: The Definitive Girly Porno Collection SelfMadeHero - Haddon Hall: When David Invented Bowie Souring Penguin Press - Meanwhile #5 VIZ Media - Revolutionary Girl Utena, Deluxe Box Set University Press of Mississippi - Reading Lessons in Seeing: Mirrors, Masks, and Mazes in the Autobiographical Graphic Novel Wed, 07 Dec 2016 13:20:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hobo Code The Two Guys with PhDs are back for their final Previews show of 2016. In this episode, Andy and Derek do what they usually do, going through the current catalog from not quite beginning to end, highlighting the offerings from the premiere publishers as well as from small presses. Among the solicitations they note are offerings from: Dark Horse Comics - The Visitor: How and Why He Stayed #1, The EC Archives: The Haunt of Fear, Vol. 4, and Soupy Leaves Home DC/Vertigo - The Wild Storm #1 and Jack of Fables: The Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Cosmic Scoundrels #1, Animal Noir #1, Chester 5000: Isabelle & George, and Fiction House: From Pulps to Panels Image Comics - The Old Guard #1, Black History in Its Own Words, Sun Bakery #1, The Belfry, and Revival #47 Alternative Comics - Fancy Froglin: Uncensored and Foggy Notions Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Lovers in the Garden BOOM! Studios - Death Be Damned #1 and The Realist: Plug and Play Campfire - The Beatles: All Our Yesterdays Drawn and Quarterly - Fire!! The Zora Neale Hurston Story and Spaniel Rage Fantagraphics Books - My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, The Interview, Excavation, The Draw of Sport, To Have and to Hold, and Love & Rockets #2 First Second - Decelerate Blue and Demon, Vol. 2 Hermes Press - Walt Kelly's The Adventures of Peter Wheat: The Complete Series, Vol. 1 Humanoids - Snow Day and Koma Magnetic Press - Doomboy and Golem NBM - A Treasury of Twentieth-Century Murder Compendium New York Review Comics - Pretending Is Lying Nobrow - Nightlights Oni Press - Small Favors: The Definitive Girly Porno Collection SelfMadeHero - Haddon Hall: When David Invented Bowie Souring Penguin Press - Meanwhile #5 VIZ Media - Revolutionary Girl Utena, Deluxe Box Set University Press of Mississippi - Reading Lessons in Seeing: Mirrors, Masks, and Mazes in the Autobiographical Graphic Novel

The Two Guys with PhDs are back for their final Previews show of 2016. In this episode, Andy and Derek do what they usually do, going through the current catalog from not quite beginning to end, highlighting the offerings from the premiere publishers as well as from small presses. Among the solicitations they note are offerings from:

]]> 5742 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Drew Friedman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-drew-friedman Photo by Greg Preston Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Setup of interview 00:03:53 - Interview with Drew Friedman 01:10:22 - Wrap up 01:11:32 - Contact us Derek and Andy are excited to have as their guest the great Drew Friedman. His new book More Heroes of the Comics comes out this week from Fantagraphics, and the guys use this opportunity to finally have him on the podcast. Both have been big fans of Drew's work since they discovered it back in the heydays of Spy magazine, and after listening to how much fun the artist was on an early episode of Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast, Andy and Derek knew they had to get Drew on their show. And now with the release of the new book, they have the opportunity! The guys talk with Drew about this second installment in the Heroes of the Comics series and how it's both a continuation of, yet quite different from, the previous volume. Drew shares the decision-making process of inclusion, the art of portraiture, and the actual genesis of this series as a whole. This, in some ways, is similar to Friedman's earlier Old Jewish Comedian series, although there the artist set out to capture the entertainers in their later years, and with little text accompanying the portraits. In the Heroes of the Comics books, Drew pays tribute to both personage and context, as well as including brief biographical material on each artist. And in this second volume, Drew is specifically focused on very marginal figures in early comics history. Plus, their are anecdotes and laughs galore. After listening to this interview, be sure and check out and support "Vermeer of the Borscht Belt," a Kickstarter campaign currently going on for a full-length documentary about Drew Friedman. Why should you do this? Because Chico needs the money! Mon, 05 Dec 2016 14:07:07 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Chico Needed the Money Photo by Greg Preston Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:29 - Setup of interview 00:03:53 - Interview with Drew Friedman 01:10:22 - Wrap up 01:11:32 - Contact us Derek and Andy are excited to have as their guest the great Drew Friedman. His new book More Heroes of the Comics comes out this week from Fantagraphics, and the guys use this opportunity to finally have him on the podcast. Both have been big fans of Drew's work since they discovered it back in the heydays of Spy magazine, and after listening to how much fun the artist was on an early episode of Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast, Andy and Derek knew they had to get Drew on their show. And now with the release of the new book, they have the opportunity! The guys talk with Drew about this second installment in the Heroes of the Comics series and how it's both a continuation of, yet quite different from, the previous volume. Drew shares the decision-making process of inclusion, the art of portraiture, and the actual genesis of this series as a whole. This, in some ways, is similar to Friedman's earlier Old Jewish Comedian series, although there the artist set out to capture the entertainers in their later years, and with little text accompanying the portraits. In the Heroes of the Comics books, Drew pays tribute to both personage and context, as well as including brief biographical material on each artist. And in this second volume, Drew is specifically focused on very marginal figures in early comics history. Plus, their are anecdotes and laughs galore. After listening to this interview, be sure and check out and support "Vermeer of the Borscht Belt," a Kickstarter campaign currently going on for a full-length documentary about Drew Friedman. Why should you do this? Because Chico needs the money! Photo by Greg Preston

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:29 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:53 - Interview with Drew Friedman
  • 01:10:22 - Wrap up
  • 01:11:32 - Contact us

Derek and Andy are excited to have as their guest the great Drew Friedman. His new book More Heroes of the Comics comes out this week from Fantagraphics, and the guys use this opportunity to finally have him on the podcast. Both have been big fans of Drew's work since they discovered it back in the heydays of Spy magazine, and after listening to how much fun the artist was on an early episode of Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast, Andy and Derek knew they had to get Drew on their show. And now with the release of the new book, they have the opportunity!

The guys talk with Drew about this second installment in the Heroes of the Comics series and how it's both a continuation of, yet quite different from, the previous volume. Drew shares the decision-making process of inclusion, the art of portraiture, and the actual genesis of this series as a whole. This, in some ways, is similar to Friedman's earlier Old Jewish Comedian series, although there the artist set out to capture the entertainers in their later years, and with little text accompanying the portraits. In the Heroes of the Comics books, Drew pays tribute to both personage and context, as well as including brief biographical material on each artist. And in this second volume, Drew is specifically focused on very marginal figures in early comics history. Plus, their are anecdotes and laughs galore.

After listening to this interview, be sure and check out and support "Vermeer of the Borscht Belt," a Kickstarter campaign currently going on for a full-length documentary about Drew Friedman. Why should you do this? Because Chico needs the money!

]]> 4476 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-w-maxwell-prince-and-john-amor Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:16 - Setup of interview 00:04:11 - Interview with W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor 00:59:17 - Wrap up 01:00:47 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor. Their latest book, One Week in the Library, comes out next week from Image Comics. Most of the discussion topics surround this new work -- how the two creators met, their process of collaboration, the ideas behind the book's structure and intertextual allusions -- but Gwen and Derek also talk with their guests about their previous collaboration, Judas: The Last Days, as well as their separate efforts, including Will's current IDW series, The Electric Sublime. And, of course, a lot of talk about books and a lot of talk about libraries. What's more, you don't have to be a bibliophile to enjoy the conversation! Fri, 02 Dec 2016 16:18:49 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Textual Adventures Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:16 - Setup of interview 00:04:11 - Interview with W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor 00:59:17 - Wrap up 01:00:47 - Contact us On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor. Their latest book, One Week in the Library, comes out next week from Image Comics. Most of the discussion topics surround this new work -- how the two creators met, their process of collaboration, the ideas behind the book's structure and intertextual allusions -- but Gwen and Derek also talk with their guests about their previous collaboration, Judas: The Last Days, as well as their separate efforts, including Will's current IDW series, The Electric Sublime. And, of course, a lot of talk about books and a lot of talk about libraries. What's more, you don't have to be a bibliophile to enjoy the conversation!

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:26 - Introduction
  • 00:02:16 - Setup of interview
  • 00:04:11 - Interview with W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor
  • 00:59:17 - Wrap up
  • 01:00:47 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with W. Maxwell Prince and John Amor. Their latest book, One Week in the Library, comes out next week from Image Comics. Most of the discussion topics surround this new work -- how the two creators met, their process of collaboration, the ideas behind the book's structure and intertextual allusions -- but Gwen and Derek also talk with their guests about their previous collaboration, Judas: The Last Days, as well as their separate efforts, including Will's current IDW series, The Electric Sublime. And, of course, a lot of talk about books and a lot of talk about libraries. What's more, you don't have to be a bibliophile to enjoy the conversation!

]]> 3834 no Episode 216: A Publisher Spotlight on Kilgore Books and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-216-a-publisher-spotlight-on-kilgore-books-and-comics Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setting up Kilgore Books and Comics 00:05:28 - Conversation with Dan Stafford 00:22:04 - Cosmic Be-ing #2 00:28:45 - The Fifth Window 00:35:24 - A Horse, a Crow, and a Hippo Walk into a Bar 00:45:53 - Powermac 00:55:16 - Paid for It 01:01:56 - The Plunge: A True Story 01:12:21 - What Happened 01:18:23 - Scorched Earth 01:25:44 - Blammo #9 01:54:57 - Wrap up 01:56:02 - Contact us On this episode, their final publisher spotlight of the year, Andy and Derek discuss the 2016 releases from Kilgore Books and Comics. They discuss nine titles, in all: four from the publisher's spring catalog, four from the fall releases, and an in-between book that conceptually lives up to its interstitial positioning. The guys begin their spotlight with a brief interview Derek conducted with Dan Stafford at this year's Small Press Expo. He introduces Kilgore to listeners, reveals its history and mission, and sets the contexts for the various 2016 releases. After that, the Two Guys with PhDs begin looking at the four titles from the spring, Alex Graham's Cosmic Be-ing #2, Amara Leipzig's The Fifth Window, Lauren Barnett's A Horse, a Crow, and a Hippo Walk into a Bar, and Box Brown's Powerman. They're intrigued by the more abstract constructions of the former, and they contrast this with the humor and sheer fun found Barnett's and Brown's comics. And given recent political events, the satiric Powerman becomes disturbingly prescient. And on the topic of satire...Andy and Derek next check out the latest work from one of their favorites, Joe Matt. Paid for It is a send-up of Chester Brown's Paying for It. In it, Matt (writing under the name "Chesty Matt") basically takes panels from Brown's original texts, inverts their sequence, and tweaks the story so that it's the protagonist who becomes the prostitute and the women who are the johns...or janes. It's not often that we see anything new from Matt, so Paid for It is definitely an event worth noting. The last part of the episode is devoted to Kilgore's fall releases: Emi Gennis's The Plunge: A True Story, Simon Moreton's What Happened, Tom Van Deusen's Scorched Earth, and Noah Van Sciver's Blammo #9. The first is an historical account of the first woman to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel, and a reminder of the gender biases we continue to live under. Moreton's is an introspective examination of childhood experiences, while Van Deusen's is an no-holds-barred exposé of a dysfunctional individual, reminiscent of Sacha Baron Cohen and Curb Your Enthusiasm. But the guys save their most vocal praise for the latest issue of Blammo. They've discussed Van Sciver's series on the podcast before, but this latest installment is a truly outstanding issue that stands above in its predecessors.   Wed, 30 Nov 2016 13:54:02 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Number 9 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setting up Kilgore Books and Comics 00:05:28 - Conversation with Dan Stafford 00:22:04 - Cosmic Be-ing #2 00:28:45 - The Fifth Window 00:35:24 - A Horse, a Crow, and a Hippo Walk into a Bar 00:45:53 - Powermac 00:55:16 - Paid for It 01:01:56 - The Plunge: A True Story 01:12:21 - What Happened 01:18:23 - Scorched Earth 01:25:44 - Blammo #9 01:54:57 - Wrap up 01:56:02 - Contact us On this episode, their final publisher spotlight of the year, Andy and Derek discuss the 2016 releases from Kilgore Books and Comics. They discuss nine titles, in all: four from the publisher's spring catalog, four from the fall releases, and an in-between book that conceptually lives up to its interstitial positioning. The guys begin their spotlight with a brief interview Derek conducted with Dan Stafford at this year's Small Press Expo. He introduces Kilgore to listeners, reveals its history and mission, and sets the contexts for the various 2016 releases. After that, the Two Guys with PhDs begin looking at the four titles from the spring, Alex Graham's Cosmic Be-ing #2, Amara Leipzig's The Fifth Window, Lauren Barnett's A Horse, a Crow, and a Hippo Walk into a Bar, and Box Brown's Powerman. They're intrigued by the more abstract constructions of the former, and they contrast this with the humor and sheer fun found Barnett's and Brown's comics. And given recent political events, the satiric Powerman becomes disturbingly prescient. And on the topic of satire...Andy and Derek next check out the latest work from one of their favorites, Joe Matt. Paid for It is a send-up of Chester Brown's Paying for It. In it, Matt (writing under the name "Chesty Matt") basically takes panels from Brown's original texts, inverts their sequence, and tweaks the story so that it's the protagonist who becomes the prostitute and the women who are the johns...or janes. It's not often that we see anything new from Matt, so Paid for It is definitely an event worth noting. The last part of the episode is devoted to Kilgore's fall releases: Emi Gennis's The Plunge: A True Story, Simon Moreton's What Happened, Tom Van Deusen's Scorched Earth, and Noah Van Sciver's Blammo #9. The first is an historical account of the first woman to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel, and a reminder of the gender biases we continue to live under. Moreton's is an introspective examination of childhood experiences, while Van Deusen's is an no-holds-barred exposé of a dysfunctional individual, reminiscent of Sacha Baron Cohen and Curb Your Enthusiasm. But the guys save their most vocal praise for the latest issue of Blammo. They've discussed Van Sciver's series on the podcast before, but this latest installment is a truly outstanding issue that stands above in its predecessors.  

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:28 - Setting up Kilgore Books and Comics
  • 00:05:28 - Conversation with Dan Stafford
  • 00:22:04 - Cosmic Be-ing #2
  • 00:28:45 - The Fifth Window
  • 00:35:24 - A Horse, a Crow, and a Hippo Walk into a Bar
  • 00:45:53 - Powermac
  • 00:55:16 - Paid for It
  • 01:01:56 - The Plunge: A True Story
  • 01:12:21 - What Happened
  • 01:18:23 - Scorched Earth
  • 01:25:44 - Blammo #9
  • 01:54:57 - Wrap up
  • 01:56:02 - Contact us

On this episode, their final publisher spotlight of the year, Andy and Derek discuss the 2016 releases from Kilgore Books and Comics. They discuss nine titles, in all: four from the publisher's spring catalog, four from the fall releases, and an in-between book that conceptually lives up to its interstitial positioning. The guys begin their spotlight with a brief interview Derek conducted with Dan Stafford at this year's Small Press Expo. He introduces Kilgore to listeners, reveals its history and mission, and sets the contexts for the various 2016 releases. After that, the Two Guys with PhDs begin looking at the four titles from the spring, Alex Graham's Cosmic Be-ing #2, Amara Leipzig's The Fifth Window, Lauren Barnett's A Horse, a Crow, and a Hippo Walk into a Bar, and Box Brown's Powerman. They're intrigued by the more abstract constructions of the former, and they contrast this with the humor and sheer fun found Barnett's and Brown's comics. And given recent political events, the satiric Powerman becomes disturbingly prescient.

And on the topic of satire...Andy and Derek next check out the latest work from one of their favorites, Joe Matt. Paid for It is a send-up of Chester Brown's Paying for It. In it, Matt (writing under the name "Chesty Matt") basically takes panels from Brown's original texts, inverts their sequence, and tweaks the story so that it's the protagonist who becomes the prostitute and the women who are the johns...or janes. It's not often that we see anything new from Matt, so Paid for It is definitely an event worth noting.

The last part of the episode is devoted to Kilgore's fall releases: Emi Gennis's The Plunge: A True Story, Simon Moreton's What Happened, Tom Van Deusen's Scorched Earth, and Noah Van Sciver's Blammo #9. The first is an historical account of the first woman to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel, and a reminder of the gender biases we continue to live under. Moreton's is an introspective examination of childhood experiences, while Van Deusen's is an no-holds-barred exposé of a dysfunctional individual, reminiscent of Sacha Baron Cohen and Curb Your Enthusiasm. But the guys save their most vocal praise for the latest issue of Blammo. They've discussed Van Sciver's series on the podcast before, but this latest installment is a truly outstanding issue that stands above in its predecessors.

 

]]> 7146 yes Manga: Reviews of A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Edition and Attack on Titan Anthology http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-a-distant-neighborhood-complete-edition-and-attack-on-titan-anthology Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Catching up after Thanksgiving 00:05:18 - A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Edition 00:54:48 - Attack on Titan Anthology 01:46:53 - Wrap up 01:47:44 - Contact us For the month of November, Shea and Derek get together to discuss to two recent manga publications, although the first text they cover is not entirely new. Jiro Taniguchi's A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Edition brings together the two-volume English editions originally published by Fanfare/Ponent Mon in 2009. (The original Japanese was published in Big Comic magazine between 1998 and 1999.) It's the story of Hiroshi Nakahara, a 48-year-old salaryman with an uninspired life, and who finds himself mysteriously transformed -- or transported? -- into his 14-year-old self. This is the same period of his life when his father abandoned his family. The guys discuss A Distant Neighborhood as a quasi-time travel narrative, but definitely not science fiction. In fact, Derek reads this text through the lens of the romance tradition, à la Horace Walpole and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Shea enjoys to story, but he feels that the premise may be a little too loaded and that Taniguchi at times relies too much on telling and not showing. Next they turn to a very different kind of book, Kodansha Comic's Attach on Titan Anthology. This is similar to a text that the guys discussed last month, Neo Parasyte F, an anthology of new works based on and inspired by a previous manga property, in this case Hajime Isayama’s Attack on Titan (which began in 2009). However in contrast to the Parasyte homage, this collection is made up of work written and drawn by a variety of Western creators. Although the collection resonates differently with each -- Derek tends to like it, as a whole, better than Shea -- both of the guys can agree on some of the anthology's highlights. These include Ronald Wimberly's "Bahamut"; Asaf and Tomer Hanuka's "Memory Maze"; Rhianna Pratchett, Ben Applegate, and Jorge Corona's "Skies Above"; and Evan Dorkin and Sarah Dyer's "Attack on Attack on Titan." But really, every contribution to this collection is worth reading. As the guys point out, one of the beauties of this anthology is that its eclectic styles reflect the broad and diverse readership to which Isayama's series appeals. Mon, 28 Nov 2016 14:48:39 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Attack on Time Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Catching up after Thanksgiving 00:05:18 - A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Edition 00:54:48 - Attack on Titan Anthology 01:46:53 - Wrap up 01:47:44 - Contact us For the month of November, Shea and Derek get together to discuss to two recent manga publications, although the first text they cover is not entirely new. Jiro Taniguchi's A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Edition brings together the two-volume English editions originally published by Fanfare/Ponent Mon in 2009. (The original Japanese was published in Big Comic magazine between 1998 and 1999.) It's the story of Hiroshi Nakahara, a 48-year-old salaryman with an uninspired life, and who finds himself mysteriously transformed -- or transported? -- into his 14-year-old self. This is the same period of his life when his father abandoned his family. The guys discuss A Distant Neighborhood as a quasi-time travel narrative, but definitely not science fiction. In fact, Derek reads this text through the lens of the romance tradition, à la Horace Walpole and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Shea enjoys to story, but he feels that the premise may be a little too loaded and that Taniguchi at times relies too much on telling and not showing. Next they turn to a very different kind of book, Kodansha Comic's Attach on Titan Anthology. This is similar to a text that the guys discussed last month, Neo Parasyte F, an anthology of new works based on and inspired by a previous manga property, in this case Hajime Isayama’s Attack on Titan (which began in 2009). However in contrast to the Parasyte homage, this collection is made up of work written and drawn by a variety of Western creators. Although the collection resonates differently with each -- Derek tends to like it, as a whole, better than Shea -- both of the guys can agree on some of the anthology's highlights. These include Ronald Wimberly's "Bahamut"; Asaf and Tomer Hanuka's "Memory Maze"; Rhianna Pratchett, Ben Applegate, and Jorge Corona's "Skies Above"; and Evan Dorkin and Sarah Dyer's "Attack on Attack on Titan." But really, every contribution to this collection is worth reading. As the guys point out, one of the beauties of this anthology is that its eclectic styles reflect the broad and diverse readership to which Isayama's series appeals.

Time Codes:

For the month of November, Shea and Derek get together to discuss to two recent manga publications, although the first text they cover is not entirely new. Jiro Taniguchi's A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Edition brings together the two-volume English editions originally published by Fanfare/Ponent Mon in 2009. (The original Japanese was published in Big Comic magazine between 1998 and 1999.) It's the story of Hiroshi Nakahara, a 48-year-old salaryman with an uninspired life, and who finds himself mysteriously transformed -- or transported? -- into his 14-year-old self. This is the same period of his life when his father abandoned his family. The guys discuss A Distant Neighborhood as a quasi-time travel narrative, but definitely not science fiction. In fact, Derek reads this text through the lens of the romance tradition, à la Horace Walpole and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Shea enjoys to story, but he feels that the premise may be a little too loaded and that Taniguchi at times relies too much on telling and not showing.

Next they turn to a very different kind of book, Kodansha Comic's Attach on Titan Anthology. This is similar to a text that the guys discussed last month, Neo Parasyte F, an anthology of new works based on and inspired by a previous manga property, in this case Hajime Isayama’s Attack on Titan (which began in 2009). However in contrast to the Parasyte homage, this collection is made up of work written and drawn by a variety of Western creators. Although the collection resonates differently with each -- Derek tends to like it, as a whole, better than Shea -- both of the guys can agree on some of the anthology's highlights. These include Ronald Wimberly's "Bahamut"; Asaf and Tomer Hanuka's "Memory Maze"; Rhianna Pratchett, Ben Applegate, and Jorge Corona's "Skies Above"; and Evan Dorkin and Sarah Dyer's "Attack on Attack on Titan." But really, every contribution to this collection is worth reading. As the guys point out, one of the beauties of this anthology is that its eclectic styles reflect the broad and diverse readership to which Isayama's series appeals.

]]> 6650 no Episode 215: Our Fourth Annual Thanksgiving Show http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-215-our-fourth-annual-thanksgiving-show For this year's Thanksgiving show, there are seven seats at the table, making this the most populated episode in the podcast's history. Andy K. and Derek are joined by their fellow cohosts Gwen, Andy W., Gene, Sean, and Edward to discuss what they are thankful for in the world of comics. (Shea and Paul couldn't join in on the fun, unfortunately, but they were there in spirit.) Among the various things they're thankful for are the final volume in The Complete Peanuts series, the increased number of translations of French-language comics, Barry Deutsch and his Hereville books, small local comics conferences, the new Doctor Strange Omnibus, indispensable publishers such as Fantagraphics and First Second, The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl (again), parents who are embracing comics in libraries, Drawn and Quarterly's manga output, other Canadian publishers and comics creators, socially aware artists, like Sophie Goldstein and Jennifer Jordan, and our Patreon supporters who have helped make 2016 a successful year! So pull up a chair, strap on the bib, pass the gravy, and settle into the warm, cozy goodness of The Seven People with PhDs Talking about Comics. And remember: the tryptophan will kick in later. Wed, 23 Nov 2016 14:55:11 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Giving Thanks in a Dark Time; Or, Steve Ditko’s Impending Death For this year's Thanksgiving show, there are seven seats at the table, making this the most populated episode in the podcast's history. Andy K. and Derek are joined by their fellow cohosts Gwen, Andy W., Gene, Sean, and Edward to discuss what they are thankful for in the world of comics. (Shea and Paul couldn't join in on the fun, unfortunately, but they were there in spirit.) Among the various things they're thankful for are the final volume in The Complete Peanuts series, the increased number of translations of French-language comics, Barry Deutsch and his Hereville books, small local comics conferences, the new Doctor Strange Omnibus, indispensable publishers such as Fantagraphics and First Second, The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl (again), parents who are embracing comics in libraries, Drawn and Quarterly's manga output, other Canadian publishers and comics creators, socially aware artists, like Sophie Goldstein and Jennifer Jordan, and our Patreon supporters who have helped make 2016 a successful year! So pull up a chair, strap on the bib, pass the gravy, and settle into the warm, cozy goodness of The Seven People with PhDs Talking about Comics. And remember: the tryptophan will kick in later.

For this year's Thanksgiving show, there are seven seats at the table, making this the most populated episode in the podcast's history. Andy K. and Derek are joined by their fellow cohosts Gwen, Andy W., Gene, Sean, and Edward to discuss what they are thankful for in the world of comics. (Shea and Paul couldn't join in on the fun, unfortunately, but they were there in spirit.) Among the various things they're thankful for are

So pull up a chair, strap on the bib, pass the gravy, and settle into the warm, cozy goodness of The Seven People with PhDs Talking about Comics. And remember: the tryptophan will kick in later.

]]> 4617 yes Euro Comics: Reviews of Soft City and The World of Edena http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-soft-city-and-the-world-of-edena Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Listener mail! 00:07:29 - Soft City 00:39:12 - The World of Edena 01:18:12 - Wrap up 01:19:09 - Contact us For the November episode in the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek take a look at two new releases of older titles. They begin with Hariton Pushwagner's Soft City (New York Review Comics). Began in 1969 and completed in 1975, the book was lost for a number of years but then rediscovered in 2002. Since then, the original art from Soft City has been exhibited in the Berlin Biennial for Contemporary Art and the Sydney Biennial, both in 2008. In fact, part of the guys' coverage of the book revolves around the topic of comic art as exhibition. But most of their discussion involves the text's symmetrical construction, its poetic imagery, and its mixed futuristic tone. After that, Edward and Derek turn to a new collected edition work from one of comics' legends. The World of Edena is the first in Dark Horse Book's new Moebius Library, and it brings together Jean Giraud's (or Moebius's) five-volume series. The guys discuss the book's origins, beginning as promotional comic for the French car manufacturer Citroën in 1983 and then ending as a full-fledged, philosophical, and very trippy series in 2001. There is a lot to explore of the book's many narrative facets, and the Two Guys spend much of their time looking at the themes of exploration and sexuality, the dream-infused nature of the story, its comedic undertones, and the clean-line style and lush colors that define its art. Mon, 21 Nov 2016 14:56:45 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Soft and Lush Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:03:03 - Listener mail! 00:07:29 - Soft City 00:39:12 - The World of Edena 01:18:12 - Wrap up 01:19:09 - Contact us For the November episode in the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek take a look at two new releases of older titles. They begin with Hariton Pushwagner's Soft City (New York Review Comics). Began in 1969 and completed in 1975, the book was lost for a number of years but then rediscovered in 2002. Since then, the original art from Soft City has been exhibited in the Berlin Biennial for Contemporary Art and the Sydney Biennial, both in 2008. In fact, part of the guys' coverage of the book revolves around the topic of comic art as exhibition. But most of their discussion involves the text's symmetrical construction, its poetic imagery, and its mixed futuristic tone. After that, Edward and Derek turn to a new collected edition work from one of comics' legends. The World of Edena is the first in Dark Horse Book's new Moebius Library, and it brings together Jean Giraud's (or Moebius's) five-volume series. The guys discuss the book's origins, beginning as promotional comic for the French car manufacturer Citroën in 1983 and then ending as a full-fledged, philosophical, and very trippy series in 2001. There is a lot to explore of the book's many narrative facets, and the Two Guys spend much of their time looking at the themes of exploration and sexuality, the dream-infused nature of the story, its comedic undertones, and the clean-line style and lush colors that define its art.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:03:03 - Listener mail!
  • 00:07:29 - Soft City
  • 00:39:12 - The World of Edena
  • 01:18:12 - Wrap up
  • 01:19:09 - Contact us

For the November episode in the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek take a look at two new releases of older titles. They begin with Hariton Pushwagner's Soft City (New York Review Comics). Began in 1969 and completed in 1975, the book was lost for a number of years but then rediscovered in 2002. Since then, the original art from Soft City has been exhibited in the Berlin Biennial for Contemporary Art and the Sydney Biennial, both in 2008. In fact, part of the guys' coverage of the book revolves around the topic of comic art as exhibition. But most of their discussion involves the text's symmetrical construction, its poetic imagery, and its mixed futuristic tone.

After that, Edward and Derek turn to a new collected edition work from one of comics' legends. The World of Edena is the first in Dark Horse Book's new Moebius Library, and it brings together Jean Giraud's (or Moebius's) five-volume series. The guys discuss the book's origins, beginning as promotional comic for the French car manufacturer Citroën in 1983 and then ending as a full-fledged, philosophical, and very trippy series in 2001. There is a lot to explore of the book's many narrative facets, and the Two Guys spend much of their time looking at the themes of exploration and sexuality, the dream-infused nature of the story, its comedic undertones, and the clean-line style and lush colors that define its art.

]]> 4944 no On Location: The November Visit to Valhalla Games and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-november-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comics Once again, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about the various titles they're been reading. And he has a large number of people joining him for this month's on-location episode, including the owner of Valhalla, Dave Larson. Derek begins the episode by talking with Dave about the changes he's bringing to the shop and his experiences in gaming retail. But others join in on the discussion soon enough, including the shop manager, Sabrina, one of her associates, Stephanie, and several of Valhalla's regulars, Craig, Matt, and Chris. This month, the topic is open-ended, so the conversation freely flows from one subject matter to another. Along the way they cover the DC's new Young Animal series, the changes wrought by Rebirth, the current state of various Marvel titles, the growing number of superhero-based films and TV shows, the narrative worlds of Matt Kindt and Jeff Lemire, and, for at least one of the interlocutors, the discovery that Lucifer is actually a comic-book series. Fri, 18 Nov 2016 14:15:01 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Lucifer is a comic?" Once again, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about the various titles they're been reading. And he has a large number of people joining him for this month's on-location episode, including the owner of Valhalla, Dave Larson. Derek begins the episode by talking with Dave about the changes he's bringing to the shop and his experiences in gaming retail. But others join in on the discussion soon enough, including the shop manager, Sabrina, one of her associates, Stephanie, and several of Valhalla's regulars, Craig, Matt, and Chris. This month, the topic is open-ended, so the conversation freely flows from one subject matter to another. Along the way they cover the DC's new Young Animal series, the changes wrought by Rebirth, the current state of various Marvel titles, the growing number of superhero-based films and TV shows, the narrative worlds of Matt Kindt and Jeff Lemire, and, for at least one of the interlocutors, the discovery that Lucifer is actually a comic-book series. Once again, Derek visits his local shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about the various titles they're been reading. And he has a large number of people joining him for this month's on-location episode, including the owner of Valhalla, Dave Larson. Derek begins the episode by talking with Dave about the changes he's bringing to the shop and his experiences in gaming retail. But others join in on the discussion soon enough, including the shop manager, Sabrina, one of her associates, Stephanie, and several of Valhalla's regulars, Craig, Matt, and Chris. This month, the topic is open-ended, so the conversation freely flows from one subject matter to another. Along the way they cover the DC's new Young Animal series, the changes wrought by Rebirth, the current state of various Marvel titles, the growing number of superhero-based films and TV shows, the narrative worlds of Matt Kindt and Jeff Lemire, and, for at least one of the interlocutors, the discovery that Lucifer is actually a comic-book series.

]]> 4421 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Matt Phelan http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-matt-phelan Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 01:40 - Setup of interview 02:03 - Interview with Matt Phelan 51:30 - Wrap up 52:16 - Contact us Gwen and Andy W. are very pleased to offer up another milestone for the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative: their first interview! And they couldn’t have asked for a better person to talk to than Matt Phelan. The Two People with PhDs talk to Matt about his new book from Candlewick, Snow White as well as Matt’s previous books, The Storm in the Barn (2009), Around the World (2011) and Bluffton: My Summers with Buster Keaton (2013). In addition to a great discussion about Matt’s books, you’ll also hear talk on a wide range of interesting topics such as film noir, silent movies, the creative process, and teaser or two about Matt’s upcoming projects. We hope you’ll join us for a great talk with creator Matt Phelan! Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:42:56 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Pictures, Moving and Otherwise Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 01:40 - Setup of interview 02:03 - Interview with Matt Phelan 51:30 - Wrap up 52:16 - Contact us Gwen and Andy W. are very pleased to offer up another milestone for the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative: their first interview! And they couldn’t have asked for a better person to talk to than Matt Phelan. The Two People with PhDs talk to Matt about his new book from Candlewick, Snow White as well as Matt’s previous books, The Storm in the Barn (2009), Around the World (2011) and Bluffton: My Summers with Buster Keaton (2013). In addition to a great discussion about Matt’s books, you’ll also hear talk on a wide range of interesting topics such as film noir, silent movies, the creative process, and teaser or two about Matt’s upcoming projects. We hope you’ll join us for a great talk with creator Matt Phelan!

Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 01:40 - Setup of interview
  • 02:03 - Interview with Matt Phelan
  • 51:30 - Wrap up
  • 52:16 - Contact us

Gwen and Andy W. are very pleased to offer up another milestone for the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative: their first interview! And they couldn’t have asked for a better person to talk to than Matt Phelan. The Two People with PhDs talk to Matt about his new book from Candlewick, Snow White as well as Matt’s previous books, The Storm in the Barn (2009), Around the World (2011) and Bluffton: My Summers with Buster Keaton (2013). In addition to a great discussion about Matt’s books, you’ll also hear talk on a wide range of interesting topics such as film noir, silent movies, the creative process, and teaser or two about Matt’s upcoming projects. We hope you’ll join us for a great talk with creator Matt Phelan!

]]> 3341 no Episode 214: Reviews of Recent Crime Comics, Part 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-214-reviews-of-recent-crime-comics-part-2 Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:13 - Listener mail! 00:06:48 - Jim Thompson's The Killer Inside Me #1 and #2 00:30:55 - Demonic #1, #2, and #3 00:37:02 - Wolfcop #1 00:42:20 - Violent Love #1 00:54:29 - Grand Passion #1 01:04:39 - Goldie Vance, Vol. 1 01:21:07 - Wrap up 01:22:39 - Contact us In the second of their two-episode look into recent crime comics, Andy and Derek turn up some truly incriminating evidence. They begin their investigations with Jim Thompson's The Killer Inside Me, adapted by Devin Faraci and Vic Malhotra (IDW Publications). The guys spend much of their time comparing this adaptation to the original classic noir novel, yet at the same time they try to focus on the comic on its own terms. Next, they briefly discuss Christopher Sebela and Niko Walter's Demonic (Image Comics), a mashup of both crime and horror, and the first issue of Wolfcop (Dynamite Entertainment). The latter is Max Marks's spinoff of the 2014 movie, and despite (or because of) its over-the-topness, it doesn't capture much of the guys' attention. But Derek and Andy are  much more interested in the next two #1 issues, Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos's Violent Love (Image Comics) and James Robinson and Tom Feister's Grand Passion (Dynamite Entertainment). These are both crime narratives with a twist of romance, stories that look to play off of the young-couple-on-a-crime-spree formula. Finally, the guys wrap up with the first volume of Goldie Vance (BOOM! Box), Hope Larson and Brittney Williams's all-age detective series, reminiscent of Nancy Drew and Sally Lockhart stories. And if you  haven't already, be sure to catch last week's episode, the first in the Two Guys' look at recent crime comics. The incidental music in this episode is from classic crime TV shows, and you can find these theme songs in Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 4, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 5, and Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 6. Check out the fun!   Wed, 16 Nov 2016 12:38:56 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Book ’em, Danno! Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:13 - Listener mail! 00:06:48 - Jim Thompson's The Killer Inside Me #1 and #2 00:30:55 - Demonic #1, #2, and #3 00:37:02 - Wolfcop #1 00:42:20 - Violent Love #1 00:54:29 - Grand Passion #1 01:04:39 - Goldie Vance, Vol. 1 01:21:07 - Wrap up 01:22:39 - Contact us In the second of their two-episode look into recent crime comics, Andy and Derek turn up some truly incriminating evidence. They begin their investigations with Jim Thompson's The Killer Inside Me, adapted by Devin Faraci and Vic Malhotra (IDW Publications). The guys spend much of their time comparing this adaptation to the original classic noir novel, yet at the same time they try to focus on the comic on its own terms. Next, they briefly discuss Christopher Sebela and Niko Walter's Demonic (Image Comics), a mashup of both crime and horror, and the first issue of Wolfcop (Dynamite Entertainment). The latter is Max Marks's spinoff of the 2014 movie, and despite (or because of) its over-the-topness, it doesn't capture much of the guys' attention. But Derek and Andy are  much more interested in the next two #1 issues, Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos's Violent Love (Image Comics) and James Robinson and Tom Feister's Grand Passion (Dynamite Entertainment). These are both crime narratives with a twist of romance, stories that look to play off of the young-couple-on-a-crime-spree formula. Finally, the guys wrap up with the first volume of Goldie Vance (BOOM! Box), Hope Larson and Brittney Williams's all-age detective series, reminiscent of Nancy Drew and Sally Lockhart stories. And if you  haven't already, be sure to catch last week's episode, the first in the Two Guys' look at recent crime comics. The incidental music in this episode is from classic crime TV shows, and you can find these theme songs in Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 4, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 5, and Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 6. Check out the fun!  

Time Codes:

In the second of their two-episode look into recent crime comics, Andy and Derek turn up some truly incriminating evidence. They begin their investigations with Jim Thompson's The Killer Inside Me, adapted by Devin Faraci and Vic Malhotra (IDW Publications). The guys spend much of their time comparing this adaptation to the original classic noir novel, yet at the same time they try to focus on the comic on its own terms. Next, they briefly discuss Christopher Sebela and Niko Walter's Demonic (Image Comics), a mashup of both crime and horror, and the first issue of Wolfcop (Dynamite Entertainment). The latter is Max Marks's spinoff of the 2014 movie, and despite (or because of) its over-the-topness, it doesn't capture much of the guys' attention. But Derek and Andy are  much more interested in the next two #1 issues, Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos's Violent Love (Image Comics) and James Robinson and Tom Feister's Grand Passion (Dynamite Entertainment). These are both crime narratives with a twist of romance, stories that look to play off of the young-couple-on-a-crime-spree formula. Finally, the guys wrap up with the first volume of Goldie Vance (BOOM! Box), Hope Larson and Brittney Williams's all-age detective series, reminiscent of Nancy Drew and Sally Lockhart stories.

And if you  haven't already, be sure to catch last week's episode, the first in the Two Guys' look at recent crime comics.

The incidental music in this episode is from classic crime TV shows, and you can find these theme songs in Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 4, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 5, and Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 6. Check out the fun!

 

]]> 5169 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Luke Healy http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-luke-healy Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Setup of interview 00:03:50 - Interview with Luke Healy 01:03:07 - Wrap up 01:03:37 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Luke Healy. His new book How to Survive in the North comes out in the U.S. this week from Nobrow Press. This isn't the first time that Luke's been on The Comics Alternative. Derek spoke with him briefly while at SPX back in September as part of the on-location series of shows. But now, Luke's back for a more sustained and focused conversation. Over the course of the interview, the two discuss the genesis of How to Survive in the North, the intersections of history and fiction, a cartoonist's responsibilities concerning research and reportage, and the distinctive qualities of both mini- and long-form narration. Derek also asks Luke about his writings for small comics anthologies, including his own efforts with Dog City. Tue, 15 Nov 2016 13:22:05 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Survivor Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Setup of interview 00:03:50 - Interview with Luke Healy 01:03:07 - Wrap up 01:03:37 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Luke Healy. His new book How to Survive in the North comes out in the U.S. this week from Nobrow Press. This isn't the first time that Luke's been on The Comics Alternative. Derek spoke with him briefly while at SPX back in September as part of the on-location series of shows. But now, Luke's back for a more sustained and focused conversation. Over the course of the interview, the two discuss the genesis of How to Survive in the North, the intersections of history and fiction, a cartoonist's responsibilities concerning research and reportage, and the distinctive qualities of both mini- and long-form narration. Derek also asks Luke about his writings for small comics anthologies, including his own efforts with Dog City.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:25 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:50 - Interview with Luke Healy
  • 01:03:07 - Wrap up
  • 01:03:37 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Luke Healy. His new book How to Survive in the North comes out in the U.S. this week from Nobrow Press. This isn't the first time that Luke's been on The Comics Alternative. Derek spoke with him briefly while at SPX back in September as part of the on-location series of shows. But now, Luke's back for a more sustained and focused conversation. Over the course of the interview, the two discuss the genesis of How to Survive in the North, the intersections of history and fiction, a cartoonist's responsibilities concerning research and reportage, and the distinctive qualities of both mini- and long-form narration. Derek also asks Luke about his writings for small comics anthologies, including his own efforts with Dog City.

]]> 3988 no Webcomics: Reviews of Hubris!, Hobo Lobo of Hamelin, and Runners http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-hubris-hobo-lobo-of-hamelin-and-runners Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:50 - Catching up 00:05:38 - Hubris! 00:31:05 - Hobo Lobo of Hamelin 00:56:35 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:08:07 - Runners 01:29:15 - Wrap up 01:30:12 - Contact us On the November webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three vastly different titles. They begin with Greg Cravens's Hubris!, a strip that's been going on since 2010 and revolves around the exploits of a small outdoors business owner. This can best be described as a gag strip, reminiscent of the kind of comics you would read in the newspaper (which makes sense, given Cravens's long history in newspaper comics). The guys point out that this is the first time that they've discussed a gag strip like this on their webcomics series, and perhaps it was a long time in coming. Next, the Two Guys turn to a much more experimental webcomics, Stevan Živadinović's Hobo Lobo of Hamelin. As the title suggests, the story alludes to the legendary German tale of a piper hired by a small town to take care of its rat infestation. What makes Živadinović's version so striking is its complex presentation, with multi-layered visuals that provide three-dimensional depth and perspective. On top of that, the webcomic is structured as a strip to scroll through, not multiple pages to click through, and it includes both animation and sound. Unfortunately, the webcomic hasn't been updated since July 2014, but the ambition and impressiveness of Hobo Lobo of Hamelin take a little bit of the sting out of the long wait. And after a brief check-in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz, the guys discuss this month's already completed webcomic, Sean Wang's Runners. This richly textured science fiction narrative ran from 2009 to 2011. The series is made up of only two volumes, but the story is written in such a way that the installments could continue for much longer, should Wang decide to return to the property. As much as Sean and Derek enjoy this title, they're saddened by the fact that there is no more of Runners on the horizon. Nevertheless, what there is is definitely worth reading. Mon, 14 Nov 2016 16:19:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Gags, Experiments, and Firefly Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:50 - Catching up 00:05:38 - Hubris! 00:31:05 - Hobo Lobo of Hamelin 00:56:35 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:08:07 - Runners 01:29:15 - Wrap up 01:30:12 - Contact us On the November webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three vastly different titles. They begin with Greg Cravens's Hubris!, a strip that's been going on since 2010 and revolves around the exploits of a small outdoors business owner. This can best be described as a gag strip, reminiscent of the kind of comics you would read in the newspaper (which makes sense, given Cravens's long history in newspaper comics). The guys point out that this is the first time that they've discussed a gag strip like this on their webcomics series, and perhaps it was a long time in coming. Next, the Two Guys turn to a much more experimental webcomics, Stevan Živadinović's Hobo Lobo of Hamelin. As the title suggests, the story alludes to the legendary German tale of a piper hired by a small town to take care of its rat infestation. What makes Živadinović's version so striking is its complex presentation, with multi-layered visuals that provide three-dimensional depth and perspective. On top of that, the webcomic is structured as a strip to scroll through, not multiple pages to click through, and it includes both animation and sound. Unfortunately, the webcomic hasn't been updated since July 2014, but the ambition and impressiveness of Hobo Lobo of Hamelin take a little bit of the sting out of the long wait. And after a brief check-in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz, the guys discuss this month's already completed webcomic, Sean Wang's Runners. This richly textured science fiction narrative ran from 2009 to 2011. The series is made up of only two volumes, but the story is written in such a way that the installments could continue for much longer, should Wang decide to return to the property. As much as Sean and Derek enjoy this title, they're saddened by the fact that there is no more of Runners on the horizon. Nevertheless, what there is is definitely worth reading.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:02:50 - Catching up
  • 00:05:38 - Hubris!
  • 00:31:05 - Hobo Lobo of Hamelin
  • 00:56:35 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz
  • 01:08:07 - Runners
  • 01:29:15 - Wrap up
  • 01:30:12 - Contact us

On the November webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three vastly different titles. They begin with Greg Cravens's Hubris!, a strip that's been going on since 2010 and revolves around the exploits of a small outdoors business owner. This can best be described as a gag strip, reminiscent of the kind of comics you would read in the newspaper (which makes sense, given Cravens's long history in newspaper comics). The guys point out that this is the first time that they've discussed a gag strip like this on their webcomics series, and perhaps it was a long time in coming.

Next, the Two Guys turn to a much more experimental webcomics, Stevan Živadinović's Hobo Lobo of Hamelin. As the title suggests, the story alludes to the legendary German tale of a piper hired by a small town to take care of its rat infestation. What makes Živadinović's version so striking is its complex presentation, with multi-layered visuals that provide three-dimensional depth and perspective. On top of that, the webcomic is structured as a strip to scroll through, not multiple pages to click through, and it includes both animation and sound. Unfortunately, the webcomic hasn't been updated since July 2014, but the ambition and impressiveness of Hobo Lobo of Hamelin take a little bit of the sting out of the long wait.

And after a brief check-in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz, the guys discuss this month's already completed webcomic, Sean Wang's Runners. This richly textured science fiction narrative ran from 2009 to 2011. The series is made up of only two volumes, but the story is written in such a way that the installments could continue for much longer, should Wang decide to return to the property. As much as Sean and Derek enjoy this title, they're saddened by the fact that there is no more of Runners on the horizon. Nevertheless, what there is is definitely worth reading.

]]> 5603 no Young Readers: A Publisher Spotlight on First Second Books http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-a-publisher-spotlight-on-first-second-books Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:50 - Context for the First Second spotlight 05:56 - Brief mention of Mighty Jack 06:56 - Varmints 11:46 - Quirk’s Quest: Into the Outlands 27:52 - Bera the One-Headed Troll 39:18 - The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo 55:44 - Wrap up 57:03 - Contact us Gwen and Andy are back with something different for the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative: their very first publisher spotlight on First Second Books. The Two People with PhDs have looked at many First Second books in the past, but this time they’re looking at the publisher’s fall selections. (Since they covered Ben Hatke’s Mighty Jack in their August show, Gwen and Andy give it just a brief mention here, but you should definitely check it out!) They begin with Andy Hirsch’s Varmints, a wild adventure set in the Old West with sister and brother Opie and Ned, searching for the man who shot their ma. If you like Western stories filled with action, action, and more action, this is the book for you. (And don't miss the Comics Alternative interview with Andy Hirsch!) Next, they turn to Quirk’s Quest: Into the Outlands by Robert Christie and Deborah Lang, an exploration adventure with the crew of the H.M.S. Gwaniimander under the command of Captain Quenterindy Quirk. Quirk’s voyage quickly meets with a near disaster as his crew discovers a land of deadly giants, a valley of weird creatures, and a sorceress who may or may not have the crew’s best interests in mind. Christie and Lang’s characters may look like something out of a Jim Henson production, but the world they’ve created is unique and compelling. Eric Orchard’s Bera the One-Headed Troll is yet a different type of quest story, this one featuring the titular troll and her owl companion Winslowe as they discover an abandoned human baby on their pumpkin patch island. Everyone seems to want the child for their own nefarious purposes, but Bera is determined to keep the baby safe from mermaids, witches, and a creature called Cloote, the former head witch of the Troll King. Orchard’s wonderfully bizarre illustrations combine with masterful storytelling that’s filled with humor and depth. Finally, the Two People with PhDs look at The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo by Drew Weing, the story of a young girl who’s a “monster mediator,” someone who patrols the streets of Echo City for trolls, ogres, and ghosts. And they’re all afraid of her! (Note: Sean and Derek discussed the online version of this series in the June webcomics episode.) Andy and Gwen both agree that Margo Maloo is a spectacular story, but it’s so much more. It’s also a book that works on multiple levels touching on the fears, prejudices, and anxieties of us all. First Second is a treasure trove of great books and Gwen and Andy hope that you’ll want to read them all! Fri, 11 Nov 2016 13:20:31 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Monstrous Mysteries Time Codes: 00:25 - Introduction 02:50 - Context for the First Second spotlight 05:56 - Brief mention of Mighty Jack 06:56 - Varmints 11:46 - Quirk’s Quest: Into the Outlands 27:52 - Bera the One-Headed Troll 39:18 - The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo 55:44 - Wrap up 57:03 - Contact us Gwen and Andy are back with something different for the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative: their very first publisher spotlight on First Second Books. The Two People with PhDs have looked at many First Second books in the past, but this time they’re looking at the publisher’s fall selections. (Since they covered Ben Hatke’s Mighty Jack in their August show, Gwen and Andy give it just a brief mention here, but you should definitely check it out!) They begin with Andy Hirsch’s Varmints, a wild adventure set in the Old West with sister and brother Opie and Ned, searching for the man who shot their ma. If you like Western stories filled with action, action, and more action, this is the book for you. (And don't miss the Comics Alternative interview with Andy Hirsch!) Next, they turn to Quirk’s Quest: Into the Outlands by Robert Christie and Deborah Lang, an exploration adventure with the crew of the H.M.S. Gwaniimander under the command of Captain Quenterindy Quirk. Quirk’s voyage quickly meets with a near disaster as his crew discovers a land of deadly giants, a valley of weird creatures, and a sorceress who may or may not have the crew’s best interests in mind. Christie and Lang’s characters may look like something out of a Jim Henson production, but the world they’ve created is unique and compelling. Eric Orchard’s Bera the One-Headed Troll is yet a different type of quest story, this one featuring the titular troll and her owl companion Winslowe as they discover an abandoned human baby on their pumpkin patch island. Everyone seems to want the child for their own nefarious purposes, but Bera is determined to keep the baby safe from mermaids, witches, and a creature called Cloote, the former head witch of the Troll King. Orchard’s wonderfully bizarre illustrations combine with masterful storytelling that’s filled with humor and depth. Finally, the Two People with PhDs look at The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo by Drew Weing, the story of a young girl who’s a “monster mediator,” someone who patrols the streets of Echo City for trolls, ogres, and ghosts. And they’re all afraid of her! (Note: Sean and Derek discussed the online version of this series in the June webcomics episode.) Andy and Gwen both agree that Margo Maloo is a spectacular story, but it’s so much more. It’s also a book that works on multiple levels touching on the fears, prejudices, and anxieties of us all. First Second is a treasure trove of great books and Gwen and Andy hope that you’ll want to read them all!

Time Codes:

Gwen and Andy are back with something different for the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative: their very first publisher spotlight on First Second Books. The Two People with PhDs have looked at many First Second books in the past, but this time they’re looking at the publisher’s fall selections. (Since they covered Ben Hatke’s Mighty Jack in their August show, Gwen and Andy give it just a brief mention here, but you should definitely check it out!) They begin with Andy Hirsch’s Varmints, a wild adventure set in the Old West with sister and brother Opie and Ned, searching for the man who shot their ma. If you like Western stories filled with action, action, and more action, this is the book for you. (And don't miss the Comics Alternative interview with Andy Hirsch!)

Next, they turn to Quirk’s Quest: Into the Outlands by Robert Christie and Deborah Lang, an exploration adventure with the crew of the H.M.S. Gwaniimander under the command of Captain Quenterindy Quirk. Quirk’s voyage quickly meets with a near disaster as his crew discovers a land of deadly giants, a valley of weird creatures, and a sorceress who may or may not have the crew’s best interests in mind. Christie and Lang’s characters may look like something out of a Jim Henson production, but the world they’ve created is unique and compelling.

Eric Orchard’s Bera the One-Headed Troll is yet a different type of quest story, this one featuring the titular troll and her owl companion Winslowe as they discover an abandoned human baby on their pumpkin patch island. Everyone seems to want the child for their own nefarious purposes, but Bera is determined to keep the baby safe from mermaids, witches, and a creature called Cloote, the former head witch of the Troll King. Orchard’s wonderfully bizarre illustrations combine with masterful storytelling that’s filled with humor and depth.

Finally, the Two People with PhDs look at The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo by Drew Weing, the story of a young girl who’s a “monster mediator,” someone who patrols the streets of Echo City for trolls, ogres, and ghosts. And they’re all afraid of her! (Note: Sean and Derek discussed the online version of this series in the June webcomics episode.) Andy and Gwen both agree that Margo Maloo is a spectacular story, but it’s so much more. It’s also a book that works on multiple levels touching on the fears, prejudices, and anxieties of us all. First Second is a treasure trove of great books and Gwen and Andy hope that you’ll want to read them all!

]]> 3629 no Episode 213: Reviews of Recent Crime Comics, Part 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-213-reviews-of-recent-crime-comics-part-1   Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:19 - Update on new Patreon campaign, and new Podcast Patron 00:05:58 - Setup of recent crime comics episode 00:07:15 - Carver: A Paris Story 00:29:33 - Angel City #1 00:43:22 - Moonshine #1 00:59:45 - Triggerman #1 01:10:55 - Peepland #1 01:20:36 - Black Dahlia 01:28:23 - The Fix, Vol. 1 01:46:59 - Wrap up 01:48:21 - Contact us There has been an abundance of crime comics published over the past several months -- see, for example, the Two Guys' earlier discussions of Weird Detective, Control, Kill or Be Killed, Cousin Joseph, Black  Monday Murders, and Sombra -- but recently this number has been almost dizzying. In the first of a two-episode series devoted to current crime comics, Andy and Derek discuss six titles that take the genre into curious directions. They range from the historical (Rick Geary's Black Dahlia), to the formula-bending (Chris Hunt's Carver: A Paris Story and Janet Harvey and Megan Levens's Angel City), to the genre-blending (Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso's Moonshine), to the comedic (Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber's The Fix), to the truly hardboiled (Walter Hill, Matz, and Jef's Triggerman as well as Christa Faust, Gary Philips, and Andrea Cameron's Peepland). There is a lot of crime/detective/noir/procedural goodness packed into this show, and the same is in store for the next week's episode, the second in the series. The incidental music in this episode is from classic crime TV shows, and you can find these theme songs in Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1, Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 3, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 4, and Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 6. Check out the fun!   Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:38:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Nut Drugs   Time Codes: 00:00:26 - Introduction 00:02:19 - Update on new Patreon campaign, and new Podcast Patron 00:05:58 - Setup of recent crime comics episode 00:07:15 - Carver: A Paris Story 00:29:33 - Angel City #1 00:43:22 - Moonshine #1 00:59:45 - Triggerman #1 01:10:55 - Peepland #1 01:20:36 - Black Dahlia 01:28:23 - The Fix, Vol. 1 01:46:59 - Wrap up 01:48:21 - Contact us There has been an abundance of crime comics published over the past several months -- see, for example, the Two Guys' earlier discussions of Weird Detective, Control, Kill or Be Killed, Cousin Joseph, Black  Monday Murders, and Sombra -- but recently this number has been almost dizzying. In the first of a two-episode series devoted to current crime comics, Andy and Derek discuss six titles that take the genre into curious directions. They range from the historical (Rick Geary's Black Dahlia), to the formula-bending (Chris Hunt's Carver: A Paris Story and Janet Harvey and Megan Levens's Angel City), to the genre-blending (Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso's Moonshine), to the comedic (Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber's The Fix), to the truly hardboiled (Walter Hill, Matz, and Jef's Triggerman as well as Christa Faust, Gary Philips, and Andrea Cameron's Peepland). There is a lot of crime/detective/noir/procedural goodness packed into this show, and the same is in store for the next week's episode, the second in the series. The incidental music in this episode is from classic crime TV shows, and you can find these theme songs in Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1, Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 3, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 4, and Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 6. Check out the fun!  

 

Time Codes:

There has been an abundance of crime comics published over the past several months -- see, for example, the Two Guys' earlier discussions of Weird Detective, Control, Kill or Be Killed, Cousin Joseph, Black  Monday Murders, and Sombra -- but recently this number has been almost dizzying. In the first of a two-episode series devoted to current crime comics, Andy and Derek discuss six titles that take the genre into curious directions. They range from the historical (Rick Geary's Black Dahlia), to the formula-bending (Chris Hunt's Carver: A Paris Story and Janet Harvey and Megan Levens's Angel City), to the genre-blending (Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso's Moonshine), to the comedic (Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber's The Fix), to the truly hardboiled (Walter Hill, Matz, and Jef's Triggerman as well as Christa Faust, Gary Philips, and Andrea Cameron's Peepland). There is a lot of crime/detective/noir/procedural goodness packed into this show, and the same is in store for the next week's episode, the second in the series.

The incidental music in this episode is from classic crime TV shows, and you can find these theme songs in Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1, Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 3, Television's Greatest Hits Vol. 4, and Television's Greatest Hits, Vol. 6. Check out the fun!

 

]]> 6688 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Howard Shapiro http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-howard-shapiro Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:21 - Setup of interview 04:03 - Interview with Howard Shapiro 53:00 - Wrap up 54:05 - Contact us On this interview show, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Howard Shapiro. The latest book in his Forever Friends Series, Hockey Karma, was just released last week from the Animal Media Group. The two talk with their guest about the series as a whole -- including the two previous graphic novels The Stereotypical Freaks (2013) and The Hockey Saint (2014) -- but specifically focus on the most recent work. Howard discusses the role that music plays in his books, which in many ways goes hand-in-hand with the premise of most of this narratives: hockey. He explains that while Hockey Karma (and The Hockey Saint) is centered on the sport, its themes transcend the ice rink. The Forever Friends Series is all about the struggles of growing up and finding your place, appropriate reading for young readers who will empathize with the books' protagonists. Tue, 08 Nov 2016 12:56:50 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Puckish Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:21 - Setup of interview 04:03 - Interview with Howard Shapiro 53:00 - Wrap up 54:05 - Contact us On this interview show, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Howard Shapiro. The latest book in his Forever Friends Series, Hockey Karma, was just released last week from the Animal Media Group. The two talk with their guest about the series as a whole -- including the two previous graphic novels The Stereotypical Freaks (2013) and The Hockey Saint (2014) -- but specifically focus on the most recent work. Howard discusses the role that music plays in his books, which in many ways goes hand-in-hand with the premise of most of this narratives: hockey. He explains that while Hockey Karma (and The Hockey Saint) is centered on the sport, its themes transcend the ice rink. The Forever Friends Series is all about the struggles of growing up and finding your place, appropriate reading for young readers who will empathize with the books' protagonists.

Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:21 - Setup of interview
  • 04:03 - Interview with Howard Shapiro
  • 53:00 - Wrap up
  • 54:05 - Contact us

On this interview show, Gwen and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Howard Shapiro. The latest book in his Forever Friends Series, Hockey Karma, was just released last week from the Animal Media Group. The two talk with their guest about the series as a whole -- including the two previous graphic novels The Stereotypical Freaks (2013) and The Hockey Saint (2014) -- but specifically focus on the most recent work. Howard discusses the role that music plays in his books, which in many ways goes hand-in-hand with the premise of most of this narratives: hockey. He explains that while Hockey Karma (and The Hockey Saint) is centered on the sport, its themes transcend the ice rink. The Forever Friends Series is all about the struggles of growing up and finding your place, appropriate reading for young readers who will empathize with the books' protagonists.

]]> 3436 no Comics Alternative Special: A Roundtable Discussion on Political Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-special-a-roundtable-discussion-on-political-comics Just in time for the U.S. elections, Gene and Derek hold a roundtable discussion on political and propaganda comics. Joining them in the conversation are Richard Graham, author of Government Issue: Comics for the People, 1940s-2000s (Abrams ComicArts); Rafael Medoff, co-author (along with Craig Yoe) of Cartoonists against the Holocaust (Clizia Inc.); Kent Worcester, editor of Silent Agitators: Cartoon Art from the Pages of New Politics (New Politics Associates); and Fredrik Strömberg, the writer of Comic Art Propaganda: A Graphic History (St. Martin’s Griffin). The guys talk with their guests about the significance of political cartooning and what drew each of them into this particular avenue of scholarship. Most of their conversation concerns the history of the genre (at least in the United States) as well as the process behind the research. At the same time, they also focus on the current political moment and how, as several of the participants feel, most contemporary political cartoonists haven't really met the challenge. The participants also share their thoughts on the impact of digital technology on the art form. In a heated political season signified by polemics and propaganda, it's reassuring that you can turn to a Comics Alternative special episode providing you with the soothing comfort of...well, polemics and propaganda. Learn more about this episode's guests and their scholarship: Richard Graham Kent Worcester Rafael Medoff Fredrik Strömberg Richard Graham, Kent Worcester, Fredrik Strömberg, and Rafael Medoff (with Craig Yoe) Mon, 07 Nov 2016 13:20:13 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Vote! Just in time for the U.S. elections, Gene and Derek hold a roundtable discussion on political and propaganda comics. Joining them in the conversation are Richard Graham, author of Government Issue: Comics for the People, 1940s-2000s (Abrams ComicArts); Rafael Medoff, co-author (along with Craig Yoe) of Cartoonists against the Holocaust (Clizia Inc.); Kent Worcester, editor of Silent Agitators: Cartoon Art from the Pages of New Politics (New Politics Associates); and Fredrik Strömberg, the writer of Comic Art Propaganda: A Graphic History (St. Martin’s Griffin). The guys talk with their guests about the significance of political cartooning and what drew each of them into this particular avenue of scholarship. Most of their conversation concerns the history of the genre (at least in the United States) as well as the process behind the research. At the same time, they also focus on the current political moment and how, as several of the participants feel, most contemporary political cartoonists haven't really met the challenge. The participants also share their thoughts on the impact of digital technology on the art form. In a heated political season signified by polemics and propaganda, it's reassuring that you can turn to a Comics Alternative special episode providing you with the soothing comfort of...well, polemics and propaganda. Learn more about this episode's guests and their scholarship: Richard Graham Kent Worcester Rafael Medoff Fredrik Strömberg Richard Graham, Kent Worcester, Fredrik Strömberg, and Rafael Medoff (with Craig Yoe) Just in time for the U.S. elections, Gene and Derek hold a roundtable discussion on political and propaganda comics. Joining them in the conversation are Richard Graham, author of Government Issue: Comics for the People, 1940s-2000s (Abrams ComicArts); Rafael Medoff, co-author (along with Craig Yoe) of Cartoonists against the Holocaust (Clizia Inc.); Kent Worcester, editor of Silent Agitators: Cartoon Art from the Pages of New Politics (New Politics Associates); and Fredrik Strömberg, the writer of Comic Art Propaganda: A Graphic History (St. Martin’s Griffin). The guys talk with their guests about the significance of political cartooning and what drew each of them into this particular avenue of scholarship. Most of their conversation concerns the history of the genre (at least in the United States) as well as the process behind the research. At the same time, they also focus on the current political moment and how, as several of the participants feel, most contemporary political cartoonists haven't really met the challenge. The participants also share their thoughts on the impact of digital technology on the art form. In a heated political season signified by polemics and propaganda, it's reassuring that you can turn to a Comics Alternative special episode providing you with the soothing comfort of...well, polemics and propaganda.

Learn more about this episode's guests and their scholarship:

Richard Graham, Kent Worcester, Fredrik Strömberg, and Rafael Medoff (with Craig Yoe) ]]> 5038 yes Episode 212: The November Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-212-the-november-previews-catalog Where did October go?! You mean the month is over, and it's already time to look at the November Previews catalog? YES! And as usual the Two Guys with PhDs rise to the occasion, looking through the most interesting solicitations and making the kind of astute observations as only they can do. For example, Andy and Derek notice an unusually large number of Spanish comics making their way into this month's listings. Is this a mere coincidence? Or might this be the kind of ethnic migratory crisis spouted by the likes of Donald J. Trump? Resisting any tendency to go batshit orange, the guys stick to the matter at hand, calmly and methodically going through the November Previews catalog and highlighting upcoming titles from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Black Hammer Giant-Sized Annual, Will Eisner: The Centennial Celebration, 1917-2017, and Reefer Madness DC/Vertigo - Kamandi Challenge #1 and Kid Eternity, Book One IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Box Office Poison: Color Comics #1, Flight of the Raven, and Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-Off Satire Magazines Image Comics - Curse Words #1, The Few #1, God Country #1, and Loose Ends #1 Aardvark Vanaheim - Cerebus in Hell #1 Abrams ComicArts - Octavia Butler's Kindred: A Graphic Novel Aftershock - Blood Blister #1 and Animosity: The Rise Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Libby's Dad BOOM! Studios - Ladycastle #1 Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Felix Leiter #1 , The Spirit: The Corpse-Makers #1, and Masters of Spanish Comic Book Art Drawn and Quarterly - The Abominable Mr. Seabrook Fantagraphics Books - Psychodrama Illustrated #1, Zonzo, Starseeds, Farmer Ned's Comics Barn, and The Artist Kodansha Comics - The Ghost in the Shell, Deluxe Edition Microcosm Publishing - Six Days in Cincinnati NBM - The Lighthouse Oni Press - The Damned, Vol. 1: Three Days Dead PS Artbooks - Pre-Code Classics: Lars of Mars/Crusaders from Mars/Eerie Adventures Titan Comics - (Re)Assignment #1 Vertical Comics - Junji Ito's Dissolving Classroom University Press of Mississippi - Chris Ware: Conversations Wed, 02 Nov 2016 11:32:02 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Spanish Invasion? Where did October go?! You mean the month is over, and it's already time to look at the November Previews catalog? YES! And as usual the Two Guys with PhDs rise to the occasion, looking through the most interesting solicitations and making the kind of astute observations as only they can do. For example, Andy and Derek notice an unusually large number of Spanish comics making their way into this month's listings. Is this a mere coincidence? Or might this be the kind of ethnic migratory crisis spouted by the likes of Donald J. Trump? Resisting any tendency to go batshit orange, the guys stick to the matter at hand, calmly and methodically going through the November Previews catalog and highlighting upcoming titles from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Black Hammer Giant-Sized Annual, Will Eisner: The Centennial Celebration, 1917-2017, and Reefer Madness DC/Vertigo - Kamandi Challenge #1 and Kid Eternity, Book One IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Box Office Poison: Color Comics #1, Flight of the Raven, and Behaving Madly: Zany, Loco, Cockeyed, Rip-Off Satire Magazines Image Comics - Curse Words #1, The Few #1, God Country #1, and Loose Ends #1 Aardvark Vanaheim - Cerebus in Hell #1 Abrams ComicArts - Octavia Butler's Kindred: A Graphic Novel Aftershock - Blood Blister #1 and Animosity: The Rise Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Libby's Dad BOOM! Studios - Ladycastle #1 Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Felix Leiter #1 , The Spirit: The Corpse-Makers #1, and Masters of Spanish Comic Book Art Drawn and Quarterly - The Abominable Mr. Seabrook Fantagraphics Books - Psychodrama Illustrated #1, Zonzo, Starseeds, Farmer Ned's Comics Barn, and The Artist Kodansha Comics - The Ghost in the Shell, Deluxe Edition Microcosm Publishing - Six Days in Cincinnati NBM - The Lighthouse Oni Press - The Damned, Vol. 1: Three Days Dead PS Artbooks - Pre-Code Classics: Lars of Mars/Crusaders from Mars/Eerie Adventures Titan Comics - (Re)Assignment #1 Vertical Comics - Junji Ito's Dissolving Classroom University Press of Mississippi - Chris Ware: Conversations

Where did October go?! You mean the month is over, and it's already time to look at the November Previews catalog?

YES!

And as usual the Two Guys with PhDs rise to the occasion, looking through the most interesting solicitations and making the kind of astute observations as only they can do. For example, Andy and Derek notice an unusually large number of Spanish comics making their way into this month's listings. Is this a mere coincidence? Or might this be the kind of ethnic migratory crisis spouted by the likes of Donald J. Trump? Resisting any tendency to go batshit orange, the guys stick to the matter at hand, calmly and methodically going through the November Previews catalog and highlighting upcoming titles from publishers such as

]]> 5320 no Special Announcement: An Enhanced Patreon Campaign! http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/special-announcement-an-enhanced-patreon-campaign The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are happy to announce their revamped and vitamin-packed Patreon campaign! They now offer seven different reward levels that include such goodies as signature Comics Alternative bookmarks, graphic novel giveaways, and cool-looking Comics Alternative t-shirts. This new campaign is a step up for both current patrons and future supporters-to-be. Check out the new video below to learn more, and go to the Two Guys' Patreon page to sign up, support, and get in on the fun! Tue, 01 Nov 2016 13:01:37 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are happy to announce their revamped and vitamin-packed Patreon campaign! They now offer seven different reward levels that include such goodies as signature Comics Alternative bookmarks,... The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are happy to announce their revamped and vitamin-packed Patreon campaign! They now offer seven different reward levels that include such goodies as signature Comics Alternative bookmarks, graphic novel giveaways, and cool-looking Comics Alternative t-shirts. This new campaign is a step up for both current patrons and future supporters-to-be. Check out the new video below to learn more, and go to the Two Guys' Patreon page to sign up, support, and get in on the fun!

The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are happy to announce their revamped and vitamin-packed Patreon campaign! They now offer seven different reward levels that include such goodies as signature Comics Alternative bookmarks, graphic novel giveaways, and cool-looking Comics Alternative t-shirts. This new campaign is a step up for both current patrons and future supporters-to-be. Check out the new video below to learn more, and go to the Two Guys' Patreon page to sign up, support, and get in on the fun!

]]> 783 no On Location: At Valhalla Games and Comics for Halloween ComicFest 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-at-valhalla-games-and-comics-for-halloween-comicfest-2016 Derek is back at his local comic shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, for the October on-location episode. But it is also Halloween ComicFest 2016, adding even more flavor into mix. He is joined by customers of the shop, some of them in costume, to discuss horror comics, Halloween specials, as well as scary movies and games. They spend  much of their time discussing the many free comic-book offerings for this year's Halloween ComicFest. Derek is particularly interested in the special horror manga issues, such as VIZ Media's Tomie and Drawn and Quarterly's Shigeru Mizuki's Kitaro: Strange Fun for Everyone. But there are many other titles that the gang discusses, ranging from holiday-appropriate (e.g., Comix Tribe's Mummy's Always Right, American Mythology's The Three Stooges Halloween Hullabaloo, and the BoooOOOoooM! Box Halloween Haunt 2016) to Halloween-free, such as several offerings from DC and Marvel. Mon, 31 Oct 2016 03:11:04 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Boo! Derek is back at his local comic shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, for the October on-location episode. But it is also Halloween ComicFest 2016, adding even more flavor into mix. He is joined by customers of the shop, some of them in costume, to discuss horror comics, Halloween specials, as well as scary movies and games. They spend  much of their time discussing the many free comic-book offerings for this year's Halloween ComicFest. Derek is particularly interested in the special horror manga issues, such as VIZ Media's Tomie and Drawn and Quarterly's Shigeru Mizuki's Kitaro: Strange Fun for Everyone. But there are many other titles that the gang discusses, ranging from holiday-appropriate (e.g., Comix Tribe's Mummy's Always Right, American Mythology's The Three Stooges Halloween Hullabaloo, and the BoooOOOoooM! Box Halloween Haunt 2016) to Halloween-free, such as several offerings from DC and Marvel.

Derek is back at his local comic shop, Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX, for the October on-location episode. But it is also Halloween ComicFest 2016, adding even more flavor into mix. He is joined by customers of the shop, some of them in costume, to discuss horror comics, Halloween specials, as well as scary movies and games. They spend  much of their time discussing the many free comic-book offerings for this year's Halloween ComicFest. Derek is particularly interested in the special horror manga issues, such as VIZ Media's Tomie and Drawn and Quarterly's Shigeru Mizuki's Kitaro: Strange Fun for Everyone. But there are many other titles that the gang discusses, ranging from holiday-appropriate (e.g., Comix Tribe's Mummy's Always Right, American Mythology's The Three Stooges Halloween Hullabaloo, and the BoooOOOoooM! Box Halloween Haunt 2016) to Halloween-free, such as several offerings from DC and Marvel.

]]> 4458 no Manga: Reviews of Various Horror Manga http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-various-horror-manga Time Codes: 00:00:58 - Introduction 00:03:22 - Set up of episode 00:07:25 - Hell Baby 00:33:27 - Fragments of Horror 01:08:53 - Lychee Light Club 01:31:52 - Portus 01:48:16 - Black Museum: The Ghost and the Lady, Book 1 02:07:46 - Neo Parasyte F 02:25:55 - Wrap up 02:27:23 - Contact us In celebration of the Halloween season, Shea and Derek devote October's episode to a discussion of horror manga. This month they look at six -- count them, six! -- books, all of which embody the eerie holiday spirit in some way. That makes this a extra-long episode, clocking in at over two and a half hours, the longest manga show the Two Guys have ever produced. They begin with a classic example of horror manga, Hideshi Hino's Hell Baby (Blast Books), and then move on to the medium's most notable practitioner of the genre, Junji Ito and his 2014 collection Fragments of Horror (VIZ Media). They then turn up the creep factor with Usamaru Furuya's Lychee Light Club (Vertical Comics) and Jun Abe's Portus (VIZ Media). Finally, the guys conclude with two brand new titles from Kodansha Comics, Kazuhiro Fujita's The Black Museum: The Ghost and the Lady, Book 1 and the shojo anthology Neo Parasyte F. The latter is a fifteen-story celebration of Hitoshi Iwaaki’s classic Parasyte series, which ran from 1988 to 1995. In their extensive discussions, Shea and Derek visit such topics as the juxtaposition of cute and gross, why the grotesque may become a writing crutch, the many uses of gender ambiguity, if video games are inherently spooky, and how Florence Nightingale can be quite sexy. That's right, folks, it's all here! Fri, 28 Oct 2016 13:59:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Weird Fireballs, Haunted Video Games, and a Naked Florence Nightingale Time Codes: 00:00:58 - Introduction 00:03:22 - Set up of episode 00:07:25 - Hell Baby 00:33:27 - Fragments of Horror 01:08:53 - Lychee Light Club 01:31:52 - Portus 01:48:16 - Black Museum: The Ghost and the Lady, Book 1 02:07:46 - Neo Parasyte F 02:25:55 - Wrap up 02:27:23 - Contact us In celebration of the Halloween season, Shea and Derek devote October's episode to a discussion of horror manga. This month they look at six -- count them, six! -- books, all of which embody the eerie holiday spirit in some way. That makes this a extra-long episode, clocking in at over two and a half hours, the longest manga show the Two Guys have ever produced. They begin with a classic example of horror manga, Hideshi Hino's Hell Baby (Blast Books), and then move on to the medium's most notable practitioner of the genre, Junji Ito and his 2014 collection Fragments of Horror (VIZ Media). They then turn up the creep factor with Usamaru Furuya's Lychee Light Club (Vertical Comics) and Jun Abe's Portus (VIZ Media). Finally, the guys conclude with two brand new titles from Kodansha Comics, Kazuhiro Fujita's The Black Museum: The Ghost and the Lady, Book 1 and the shojo anthology Neo Parasyte F. The latter is a fifteen-story celebration of Hitoshi Iwaaki’s classic Parasyte series, which ran from 1988 to 1995. In their extensive discussions, Shea and Derek visit such topics as the juxtaposition of cute and gross, why the grotesque may become a writing crutch, the many uses of gender ambiguity, if video games are inherently spooky, and how Florence Nightingale can be quite sexy. That's right, folks, it's all here!

Time Codes:

In celebration of the Halloween season, Shea and Derek devote October's episode to a discussion of horror manga. This month they look at six -- count them, six! -- books, all of which embody the eerie holiday spirit in some way. That makes this a extra-long episode, clocking in at over two and a half hours, the longest manga show the Two Guys have ever produced. They begin with a classic example of horror manga, Hideshi Hino's Hell Baby (Blast Books), and then move on to the medium's most notable practitioner of the genre, Junji Ito and his 2014 collection Fragments of Horror (VIZ Media). They then turn up the creep factor with Usamaru Furuya's Lychee Light Club (Vertical Comics) and Jun Abe's Portus (VIZ Media). Finally, the guys conclude with two brand new titles from Kodansha Comics, Kazuhiro Fujita's The Black Museum: The Ghost and the Lady, Book 1 and the shojo anthology Neo Parasyte F. The latter is a fifteen-story celebration of Hitoshi Iwaaki’s classic Parasyte series, which ran from 1988 to 1995. In their extensive discussions, Shea and Derek visit such topics as the juxtaposition of cute and gross, why the grotesque may become a writing crutch, the many uses of gender ambiguity, if video games are inherently spooky, and how Florence Nightingale can be quite sexy. That's right, folks, it's all here!

]]> 9176 no Episode 211: Halloween Comics 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-211-halloween-comics-2016 Time Codes: 00:00:34 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Andy's report on Cartoons Crossroads Columbus 00:15:08 - Setup of this year's Halloween episode 00:17:24 - All-age Halloween anthologies 00:43:38 - Betty Boop #1 and Spell on Wheels #1 00:59:47 - The Lost Boys #1 and American Vampire Anthology #2 01:19:48 - The Double Life of Miranda Turner and Nix Comics Quarterly #9 01:34:22 - Wrap up 01:35:55 - Contact us It's the Wednesday before Halloween, so it's time once again for the Two Guys with PhDs to look at this season's spooky, horror-filled offerings. This year, Andy and Derek discuss 10 individual titles, some of which were specifically published for Halloween 2016 and others with particular themes and release dates that nicely coincide with the holiday. They begin with four all-age anthology titles and then move on to works that, while not specifically intended as Halloween specials, capture the spirit of the season  in one form or another. In total, they discuss: The Simpsons' Treehouse of Horror #22, by Matt Groenig and others (Bongo Comics) Spongebob Comics #61, edited by Chris Duffy (United Plankton Pictures) Adventure Time Spooktacular 2016, by Pendleton Ward and others (KaBoom!) Disney's Giant Halloween Hex, by various (IDW Publishing) Betty Boop #1, by Roger Langridge and Gisèle Lagacé (Dynamite Entertainment) Spell on Wheels #1, by Kate Leth and Megan Levens (Dark Horse Comics) The Lost Boys #1, by Tim Seeley and Scott Godlewski (DC/Vertigo) American Vampire Anthology #2, by Scott Snyder and others (DC/Vertigo) The Double Life of Miranda Turner, by Jamie S. Smith and George Kambadais (Image Comics) Nix Comics Quarterly #9, by Ken Eppstein and others (Nix Comics)   Wed, 26 Oct 2016 13:34:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hi De Hi De Hi De Hi! Time Codes: 00:00:34 - Introduction 00:02:34 - Andy's report on Cartoons Crossroads Columbus 00:15:08 - Setup of this year's Halloween episode 00:17:24 - All-age Halloween anthologies 00:43:38 - Betty Boop #1 and Spell on Wheels #1 00:59:47 - The Lost Boys #1 and American Vampire Anthology #2 01:19:48 - The Double Life of Miranda Turner and Nix Comics Quarterly #9 01:34:22 - Wrap up 01:35:55 - Contact us It's the Wednesday before Halloween, so it's time once again for the Two Guys with PhDs to look at this season's spooky, horror-filled offerings. This year, Andy and Derek discuss 10 individual titles, some of which were specifically published for Halloween 2016 and others with particular themes and release dates that nicely coincide with the holiday. They begin with four all-age anthology titles and then move on to works that, while not specifically intended as Halloween specials, capture the spirit of the season  in one form or another. In total, they discuss: The Simpsons' Treehouse of Horror #22, by Matt Groenig and others (Bongo Comics) Spongebob Comics #61, edited by Chris Duffy (United Plankton Pictures) Adventure Time Spooktacular 2016, by Pendleton Ward and others (KaBoom!) Disney's Giant Halloween Hex, by various (IDW Publishing) Betty Boop #1, by Roger Langridge and Gisèle Lagacé (Dynamite Entertainment) Spell on Wheels #1, by Kate Leth and Megan Levens (Dark Horse Comics) The Lost Boys #1, by Tim Seeley and Scott Godlewski (DC/Vertigo) American Vampire Anthology #2, by Scott Snyder and others (DC/Vertigo) The Double Life of Miranda Turner, by Jamie S. Smith and George Kambadais (Image Comics) Nix Comics Quarterly #9, by Ken Eppstein and others (Nix Comics)  

Time Codes:

It's the Wednesday before Halloween, so it's time once again for the Two Guys with PhDs to look at this season's spooky, horror-filled offerings. This year, Andy and Derek discuss 10 individual titles, some of which were specifically published for Halloween 2016 and others with particular themes and release dates that nicely coincide with the holiday. They begin with four all-age anthology titles and then move on to works that, while not specifically intended as Halloween specials, capture the spirit of the season  in one form or another. In total, they discuss:

 

]]> 5925 no Comics Alternative Interviews: More Mike Howlett http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-more-mike-howlett Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:28 - Setup of interview 04:50 - Interview with Mike Howlett 56:56 - Wrap up 57:52 - Contact us Halloween is just around the corner, and what could be scarier than a nest of snakes? Although to hear Mike Howlett tell it, there's nothing at all frightening about the legless reptiles. This was part of the impetus behind Snake Tales, the latest volume in Yoe Books' Chilling Archives of Horror Comics series. In it, Mike curates some of the weirdest, the most ridiculous, and the most ophidiophobia-inducing snake-related tales found in pre-code comics. Derek talks with Mike about the genesis of this project, his love of snakes, his collaboration with noted herpetologist Frank T. Burbrink, and his ongoing work with Craig Yoe and Clizia Gussoni in their never-ending quest to bring pre-code horror sensibilities to the heartland of America. Mon, 24 Oct 2016 13:39:38 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Ophidiomaniac Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:28 - Setup of interview 04:50 - Interview with Mike Howlett 56:56 - Wrap up 57:52 - Contact us Halloween is just around the corner, and what could be scarier than a nest of snakes? Although to hear Mike Howlett tell it, there's nothing at all frightening about the legless reptiles. This was part of the impetus behind Snake Tales, the latest volume in Yoe Books' Chilling Archives of Horror Comics series. In it, Mike curates some of the weirdest, the most ridiculous, and the most ophidiophobia-inducing snake-related tales found in pre-code comics. Derek talks with Mike about the genesis of this project, his love of snakes, his collaboration with noted herpetologist Frank T. Burbrink, and his ongoing work with Craig Yoe and Clizia Gussoni in their never-ending quest to bring pre-code horror sensibilities to the heartland of America.

Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:28 - Setup of interview
  • 04:50 - Interview with Mike Howlett
  • 56:56 - Wrap up
  • 57:52 - Contact us

Halloween is just around the corner, and what could be scarier than a nest of snakes? Although to hear Mike Howlett tell it, there's nothing at all frightening about the legless reptiles. This was part of the impetus behind Snake Tales, the latest volume in Yoe Books' Chilling Archives of Horror Comics series. In it, Mike curates some of the weirdest, the most ridiculous, and the most ophidiophobia-inducing snake-related tales found in pre-code comics. Derek talks with Mike about the genesis of this project, his love of snakes, his collaboration with noted herpetologist Frank T. Burbrink, and his ongoing work with Craig Yoe and Clizia Gussoni in their never-ending quest to bring pre-code horror sensibilities to the heartland of America.

]]> 3648 no Episode 210: Reviews of Black Eye #3, Ancestor, and Frontier #13 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-210-reviews-of-black-eye-3-ancestor-and-frontier-13 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Catching up with Paul 00:04:38 - Black Eye No. 3 00:46:40 - Ancestor 01:12:38 - Frontier #13 01:37:37 - Wrap up 01:38:55 - Contact us On this week's review episode, Paul joins Derek to discuss three titles that are certainly out of the ordinary. They begin with Black Eye No. 3, an anthology edited by Ryan Standfest, the publisher of Rotland Press. This is a first for The Comics Alternative in a couple of different ways. It is the first time the Two Guys are reviewing a Rotland Press title, but more significantly, this is the first time they have discussed a crowd-funded book before the campaign's completion. And listeners are strongly encouraged to back this project on Indiegogo. Calling itself "the anthology of humor and despair," Black Eye is a series devoted to short, offbeat comic stories, illustrations, and prose pieces, although in the current (and final) volume there is a noticeable absence of the latter. Both Derek and Paul recognize several of the contributors in this anthology -- including Joan Cornellà, Martin Rowson, Eric Haven, David Lynch, Julia Gfrörer, Onsmith, and Alejandro Jodorowsky -- but much of the joy in this volume comes from discovering the work of newer creators. And there is a lot of talent here! Next, the guys check out a more conventional work, Matt Sheean and Malachi Ward's Ancestor (Image Comics). Although "conventional" might be a stretch here. Originally serialized in the anthology Island, this is a futuristic, or perhaps an alternate-world, narrative exploring our relationship with networked technologies and the potential consequences of complete creative freedom. As the guys point out, the story takes an unexpected turn in the final chapter, ultimately walking a fine line between paradise and dystopia. Paul and Derek wrap up this week's show with a look at the latest in Youth in Decline's quarterly monograph series, Frontier. This thirteenth issue showcases the work of Richie Pope and is titled "Fatherson." As the guys point out, it's a poignant and idiosyncratic meditation on fatherhood, specifically African American fatherhood. In fact, Derek and Paul discuss the racial specificity of the text, while at the same time observing that the story is not bound by ethnic contexts. Pope is primarily known as an illustrator -- his work has appeared in the The New York Times, The Atlantic, Scientific American, and The New Yorker, among other titles -- but this issue of Frontier aptly demonstrates his abilities in sequential storytelling. Wed, 19 Oct 2016 13:43:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Extraordinary Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Catching up with Paul 00:04:38 - Black Eye No. 3 00:46:40 - Ancestor 01:12:38 - Frontier #13 01:37:37 - Wrap up 01:38:55 - Contact us On this week's review episode, Paul joins Derek to discuss three titles that are certainly out of the ordinary. They begin with Black Eye No. 3, an anthology edited by Ryan Standfest, the publisher of Rotland Press. This is a first for The Comics Alternative in a couple of different ways. It is the first time the Two Guys are reviewing a Rotland Press title, but more significantly, this is the first time they have discussed a crowd-funded book before the campaign's completion. And listeners are strongly encouraged to back this project on Indiegogo. Calling itself "the anthology of humor and despair," Black Eye is a series devoted to short, offbeat comic stories, illustrations, and prose pieces, although in the current (and final) volume there is a noticeable absence of the latter. Both Derek and Paul recognize several of the contributors in this anthology -- including Joan Cornellà, Martin Rowson, Eric Haven, David Lynch, Julia Gfrörer, Onsmith, and Alejandro Jodorowsky -- but much of the joy in this volume comes from discovering the work of newer creators. And there is a lot of talent here! Next, the guys check out a more conventional work, Matt Sheean and Malachi Ward's Ancestor (Image Comics). Although "conventional" might be a stretch here. Originally serialized in the anthology Island, this is a futuristic, or perhaps an alternate-world, narrative exploring our relationship with networked technologies and the potential consequences of complete creative freedom. As the guys point out, the story takes an unexpected turn in the final chapter, ultimately walking a fine line between paradise and dystopia. Paul and Derek wrap up this week's show with a look at the latest in Youth in Decline's quarterly monograph series, Frontier. This thirteenth issue showcases the work of Richie Pope and is titled "Fatherson." As the guys point out, it's a poignant and idiosyncratic meditation on fatherhood, specifically African American fatherhood. In fact, Derek and Paul discuss the racial specificity of the text, while at the same time observing that the story is not bound by ethnic contexts. Pope is primarily known as an illustrator -- his work has appeared in the The New York Times, The Atlantic, Scientific American, and The New Yorker, among other titles -- but this issue of Frontier aptly demonstrates his abilities in sequential storytelling.

Time Codes:

On this week's review episode, Paul joins Derek to discuss three titles that are certainly out of the ordinary. They begin with Black Eye No. 3, an anthology edited by Ryan Standfest, the publisher of Rotland Press. This is a first for The Comics Alternative in a couple of different ways. It is the first time the Two Guys are reviewing a Rotland Press title, but more significantly, this is the first time they have discussed a crowd-funded book before the campaign's completion. And listeners are strongly encouraged to back this project on Indiegogo. Calling itself "the anthology of humor and despair," Black Eye is a series devoted to short, offbeat comic stories, illustrations, and prose pieces, although in the current (and final) volume there is a noticeable absence of the latter. Both Derek and Paul recognize several of the contributors in this anthology -- including Joan Cornellà, Martin Rowson, Eric Haven, David Lynch, Julia Gfrörer, Onsmith, and Alejandro Jodorowsky -- but much of the joy in this volume comes from discovering the work of newer creators. And there is a lot of talent here!

Next, the guys check out a more conventional work, Matt Sheean and Malachi Ward's Ancestor (Image Comics). Although "conventional" might be a stretch here. Originally serialized in the anthology Island, this is a futuristic, or perhaps an alternate-world, narrative exploring our relationship with networked technologies and the potential consequences of complete creative freedom. As the guys point out, the story takes an unexpected turn in the final chapter, ultimately walking a fine line between paradise and dystopia.

Paul and Derek wrap up this week's show with a look at the latest in Youth in Decline's quarterly monograph series, Frontier. This thirteenth issue showcases the work of Richie Pope and is titled "Fatherson." As the guys point out, it's a poignant and idiosyncratic meditation on fatherhood, specifically African American fatherhood. In fact, Derek and Paul discuss the racial specificity of the text, while at the same time observing that the story is not bound by ethnic contexts. Pope is primarily known as an illustrator -- his work has appeared in the The New York Times, The Atlantic, Scientific American, and The New Yorker, among other titles -- but this issue of Frontier aptly demonstrates his abilities in sequential storytelling.

]]> 6121 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-chris-miskiewicz-and-palle-schmidt Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:07 - Setup of interview 00:03:03 - Interview with Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt 01:22:34 - Wrap up 01:23:32 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt about their miniseries, Thomas Alsop, the second volume of which is being released from BOOM! Studios. In addition to discussing the genesis of and the process behind the title, Derek's guests speculate on the critical and popular response it's received, the long-term potential of the series, and creators' responsibilities in representing 9/11. Palle and Chris also discuss their use of race in America and the ways in which Thomas Alsop is undeniably an historically anchored text. Tue, 18 Oct 2016 11:55:20 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hands On Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:07 - Setup of interview 00:03:03 - Interview with Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt 01:22:34 - Wrap up 01:23:32 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt about their miniseries, Thomas Alsop, the second volume of which is being released from BOOM! Studios. In addition to discussing the genesis of and the process behind the title, Derek's guests speculate on the critical and popular response it's received, the long-term potential of the series, and creators' responsibilities in representing 9/11. Palle and Chris also discuss their use of race in America and the ways in which Thomas Alsop is undeniably an historically anchored text.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:07 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:03 - Interview with Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt
  • 01:22:34 - Wrap up
  • 01:23:32 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Chris Miskiewicz and Palle Schmidt about their miniseries, Thomas Alsop, the second volume of which is being released from BOOM! Studios. In addition to discussing the genesis of and the process behind the title, Derek's guests speculate on the critical and popular response it's received, the long-term potential of the series, and creators' responsibilities in representing 9/11. Palle and Chris also discuss their use of race in America and the ways in which Thomas Alsop is undeniably an historically anchored text.

]]> 5190 yes Webcomics: Reviews of The Last Halloween, Urbanity Planet, and Odysseus the Rebel http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-last-halloween-urbanity-planet-and-odysseus-the-rebel Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Listener mail 00:07:37 - The Last Halloween 00:38:46 - Urbanity Planet 00:57:39 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:11:46 - Odysseus the Rebel 01:40:27 - Wrap up 01:41:31 - Contact us For the October webcomics episode, Sean and Derek check out three very different webcomics, the first of which highlights the Halloween season. Abby Howard's The Last Halloween is a combination of creepy illustrations and offbeat humor including a monster apocalypse, an ebullient vampire boy, a social media-addicted ghoul, and a grieving father who crossdresses in his dead wife's clothes. The guys enjoy the fun and meandering story, although Derek wonders if the storytelling could be a little more focused in places. Next, they look at Theora Kvitka's first webcomic, Urbanity Planet. This is a relatively new story, beginning in February of this year, so readers can experience the artist's online voice as it develops. It's a series of vignettes centered on recent college grads who can't find work on earth and, as a result, move to the planet N!#ult0n to earn a living. Filled with quirky observations, the webcomic is an alternate reality glimpse into the dilemma of millennials. Before they look at the month's final webcomic, the guys check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz to get an update on their in-the-works webcomic, Poe and the Mysteriads. Things are moving right along, although Jim expresses a mea culpa. Click HERE for new sample art! Finally, Sean and Derek discuss the completed webcomic, Odysseus the Rebel. This is Steven Grant and Scott Bieser's adaptation of the Homeric classic, but one that doesn't feel the need to be comprehensive or "true" to the original. That's what the guys appreciate about this adaptation, Grant and Bieser's ability to take the essence of The Odyssey and translate it into a contemporary voice. And with its emphasis on storytelling, Odysseus the Rebel demonstrates a particular metafictional bent. Mon, 17 Oct 2016 13:15:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Journeys Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Listener mail 00:07:37 - The Last Halloween 00:38:46 - Urbanity Planet 00:57:39 - Checking in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:11:46 - Odysseus the Rebel 01:40:27 - Wrap up 01:41:31 - Contact us For the October webcomics episode, Sean and Derek check out three very different webcomics, the first of which highlights the Halloween season. Abby Howard's The Last Halloween is a combination of creepy illustrations and offbeat humor including a monster apocalypse, an ebullient vampire boy, a social media-addicted ghoul, and a grieving father who crossdresses in his dead wife's clothes. The guys enjoy the fun and meandering story, although Derek wonders if the storytelling could be a little more focused in places. Next, they look at Theora Kvitka's first webcomic, Urbanity Planet. This is a relatively new story, beginning in February of this year, so readers can experience the artist's online voice as it develops. It's a series of vignettes centered on recent college grads who can't find work on earth and, as a result, move to the planet N!#ult0n to earn a living. Filled with quirky observations, the webcomic is an alternate reality glimpse into the dilemma of millennials. Before they look at the month's final webcomic, the guys check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz to get an update on their in-the-works webcomic, Poe and the Mysteriads. Things are moving right along, although Jim expresses a mea culpa. Click HERE for new sample art! Finally, Sean and Derek discuss the completed webcomic, Odysseus the Rebel. This is Steven Grant and Scott Bieser's adaptation of the Homeric classic, but one that doesn't feel the need to be comprehensive or "true" to the original. That's what the guys appreciate about this adaptation, Grant and Bieser's ability to take the essence of The Odyssey and translate it into a contemporary voice. And with its emphasis on storytelling, Odysseus the Rebel demonstrates a particular metafictional bent.

Time Codes:

For the October webcomics episode, Sean and Derek check out three very different webcomics, the first of which highlights the Halloween season. Abby Howard's The Last Halloween is a combination of creepy illustrations and offbeat humor including a monster apocalypse, an ebullient vampire boy, a social media-addicted ghoul, and a grieving father who crossdresses in his dead wife's clothes. The guys enjoy the fun and meandering story, although Derek wonders if the storytelling could be a little more focused in places.

Next, they look at Theora Kvitka's first webcomic, Urbanity Planet. This is a relatively new story, beginning in February of this year, so readers can experience the artist's online voice as it develops. It's a series of vignettes centered on recent college grads who can't find work on earth and, as a result, move to the planet N!#ult0n to earn a living. Filled with quirky observations, the webcomic is an alternate reality glimpse into the dilemma of millennials.

Before they look at the month's final webcomic, the guys check in with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz to get an update on their in-the-works webcomic, Poe and the Mysteriads. Things are moving right along, although Jim expresses a mea culpa. Click HERE for new sample art!

Finally, Sean and Derek discuss the completed webcomic, Odysseus the Rebel. This is Steven Grant and Scott Bieser's adaptation of the Homeric classic, but one that doesn't feel the need to be comprehensive or "true" to the original. That's what the guys appreciate about this adaptation, Grant and Bieser's ability to take the essence of The Odyssey and translate it into a contemporary voice. And with its emphasis on storytelling, Odysseus the Rebel demonstrates a particular metafictional bent.

]]> 6315 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Luke Howard http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-luke-howard Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:08 - Setup of interview 00:03:43 - Interview with Luke Howard 01:04:41 - Wrap up 01:06:33 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek has the pleasure of talking with Luke Howard. His new book, Our Mother, was recently released from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, but he also had another work published earlier this year from AdHouse, Talk Dirty to Me. Derek talks with Luke about both of those titles as well as his comics collected in anthologies such as Irene, Dog City, and Maple Key Comics. Over the coarse of their conversation, Luke shares the personal history that went into Our Mother, his experiences in self-publishing, and the ways in which his training as a filmmaker informs his visual storytelling. Fri, 14 Oct 2016 11:41:39 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mother Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:08 - Setup of interview 00:03:43 - Interview with Luke Howard 01:04:41 - Wrap up 01:06:33 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek has the pleasure of talking with Luke Howard. His new book, Our Mother, was recently released from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, but he also had another work published earlier this year from AdHouse, Talk Dirty to Me. Derek talks with Luke about both of those titles as well as his comics collected in anthologies such as Irene, Dog City, and Maple Key Comics. Over the coarse of their conversation, Luke shares the personal history that went into Our Mother, his experiences in self-publishing, and the ways in which his training as a filmmaker informs his visual storytelling.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:08 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:43 - Interview with Luke Howard
  • 01:04:41 - Wrap up
  • 01:06:33 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek has the pleasure of talking with Luke Howard. His new book, Our Mother, was recently released from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, but he also had another work published earlier this year from AdHouse, Talk Dirty to Me. Derek talks with Luke about both of those titles as well as his comics collected in anthologies such as Irene, Dog City, and Maple Key Comics. Over the coarse of their conversation, Luke shares the personal history that went into Our Mother, his experiences in self-publishing, and the ways in which his training as a filmmaker informs his visual storytelling.

]]> 4170 no Episode 209: This and That http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-209-this-and-that Hurricane Matthew hit the U.S. Southeast coast last week, and as a result, many communities were flooded and without power. Andy was one of those affected by the storm, being without electricity and water for several days. As a result, he was unable to take part in this week's episode, what was planned as the first of a two-part series on recent crime comics. (Those shows have now been rescheduled for November.) In his place is Shea Hennum, the cohost of the monthly manga series. He joins Derek for a back-and-forth on a variety of comics-related topics. Because this was a last-minute change in the guys' schedule, they didn't have time to prepare for a regular review show, so the conversation is free-flowing and casual. Along the way, Derek and Shea discuss some of the self-published comics creators have sent them, Shea's work for the AV Club, their experiences with various publishers, some of the memorable interviews they've conducted, selecting books for review purposes, and some of the comics they've recently been reading. Wed, 12 Oct 2016 11:38:57 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sturm und Drang Hurricane Matthew hit the U.S. Southeast coast last week, and as a result, many communities were flooded and without power. Andy was one of those affected by the storm, being without electricity and water for several days. As a result, he was unable to take part in this week's episode, what was planned as the first of a two-part series on recent crime comics. (Those shows have now been rescheduled for November.) In his place is Shea Hennum, the cohost of the monthly manga series. He joins Derek for a back-and-forth on a variety of comics-related topics. Because this was a last-minute change in the guys' schedule, they didn't have time to prepare for a regular review show, so the conversation is free-flowing and casual. Along the way, Derek and Shea discuss some of the self-published comics creators have sent them, Shea's work for the AV Club, their experiences with various publishers, some of the memorable interviews they've conducted, selecting books for review purposes, and some of the comics they've recently been reading. Hurricane Matthew hit the U.S. Southeast coast last week, and as a result, many communities were flooded and without power. Andy was one of those affected by the storm, being without electricity and water for several days. As a result, he was unable to take part in this week's episode, what was planned as the first of a two-part series on recent crime comics. (Those shows have now been rescheduled for November.) In his place is Shea Hennum, the cohost of the monthly manga series. He joins Derek for a back-and-forth on a variety of comics-related topics. Because this was a last-minute change in the guys' schedule, they didn't have time to prepare for a regular review show, so the conversation is free-flowing and casual. Along the way, Derek and Shea discuss some of the self-published comics creators have sent them, Shea's work for the AV Club, their experiences with various publishers, some of the memorable interviews they've conducted, selecting books for review purposes, and some of the comics they've recently been reading.

]]> 3867 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Box Brown http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-box-brown Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:14 - Setup of interview 02:57 - Interview with Box Brown 53:28 - Wrap up 54:53 - Contact us On this episode of the interview series Derek talks with Box Brown, whose new book Tetris: The Games People Play has just been released from First Second. As the two discuss, this is a detailed history of the famous video game and the cultural, business, and political contexts swirling around the program's creation. Box shares his experiences and fascination with the game, explaining the genesis of the project and the research that went into it. Whereas his previous First Second book, Andrea the Giant, focused on one figure, the new work synthesizes the lives of everyone involved in the creation of Tetris including its designer Alexy Pajitnov as well as the many key players at Nintendo, Mirrorsoft, Andromeda Software, Atari, Bulletproof Software, and Elorg, the government bureau tasked with overseeing the profits and negotiations surrounding any computer products coming out of the Soviet Union. But Box also focuses on the psychology of gaming and role it plays in our lives, using Tetris as his illustrative example. Tue, 11 Oct 2016 12:29:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Players Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:14 - Setup of interview 02:57 - Interview with Box Brown 53:28 - Wrap up 54:53 - Contact us On this episode of the interview series Derek talks with Box Brown, whose new book Tetris: The Games People Play has just been released from First Second. As the two discuss, this is a detailed history of the famous video game and the cultural, business, and political contexts swirling around the program's creation. Box shares his experiences and fascination with the game, explaining the genesis of the project and the research that went into it. Whereas his previous First Second book, Andrea the Giant, focused on one figure, the new work synthesizes the lives of everyone involved in the creation of Tetris including its designer Alexy Pajitnov as well as the many key players at Nintendo, Mirrorsoft, Andromeda Software, Atari, Bulletproof Software, and Elorg, the government bureau tasked with overseeing the profits and negotiations surrounding any computer products coming out of the Soviet Union. But Box also focuses on the psychology of gaming and role it plays in our lives, using Tetris as his illustrative example.

Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:14 - Setup of interview
  • 02:57 - Interview with Box Brown
  • 53:28 - Wrap up
  • 54:53 - Contact us

On this episode of the interview series Derek talks with Box Brown, whose new book Tetris: The Games People Play has just been released from First Second. As the two discuss, this is a detailed history of the famous video game and the cultural, business, and political contexts swirling around the program's creation. Box shares his experiences and fascination with the game, explaining the genesis of the project and the research that went into it. Whereas his previous First Second book, Andrea the Giant, focused on one figure, the new work synthesizes the lives of everyone involved in the creation of Tetris including its designer Alexy Pajitnov as well as the many key players at Nintendo, Mirrorsoft, Andromeda Software, Atari, Bulletproof Software, and Elorg, the government bureau tasked with overseeing the profits and negotiations surrounding any computer products coming out of the Soviet Union. But Box also focuses on the psychology of gaming and role it plays in our lives, using Tetris as his illustrative example.

]]> 3464 no Euro Comics: Reviews of I Am Legion and Tyler Cross: Black Rock http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-i-am-legion-and-tyler-cross-black-rock Time Codes: 00:27 - Introduction 02:41 - Checking in and updates 04:06 - I Am Legion 31:38 - Tyler Cross: Black Rock 53:56 - Wrap up 55:04 - Contact us For the October Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek look at two works written by Fabien Nury. They begin with I Am Legion, recently out from Humanoids and featuring the art of John Cassaday. The story takes place in 1942, and the Nazis are experimenting with a force that could spell the quick end of the war. But this isn't just any military operation. It's one infused with vampiric lore. The guys explore this supernatural, gothic take on the Second World War, discussing along the way the faint presence of the Holocaust as well as the continued fertile ground of Nazi Germany as a narrative bedrock for European albums. Next, they look at another work by Nury, this one illustrated by Brüno. Tyler Cross: Black Rock was originally published by Dargaud in 2013 but offered last year digitally in an English translation from Europe Comics. In terms of of both genre and art, this book is strikingly different from the first one Edward and Derek discuss. Tyler Cross is a gritty crime noir narrative set in the American Southwest, with Brüno's stylized illustrations bringing out its bleak and violent tone. Set alongside Cassaday's realistic art, the book demonstrates the versatility of Nury's collaborative storytelling abilities. The guys also allude to the second book in this series, Tyler Cross: Angola, and speculate on future installments. Mon, 10 Oct 2016 14:43:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Blood Noir Time Codes: 00:27 - Introduction 02:41 - Checking in and updates 04:06 - I Am Legion 31:38 - Tyler Cross: Black Rock 53:56 - Wrap up 55:04 - Contact us For the October Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek look at two works written by Fabien Nury. They begin with I Am Legion, recently out from Humanoids and featuring the art of John Cassaday. The story takes place in 1942, and the Nazis are experimenting with a force that could spell the quick end of the war. But this isn't just any military operation. It's one infused with vampiric lore. The guys explore this supernatural, gothic take on the Second World War, discussing along the way the faint presence of the Holocaust as well as the continued fertile ground of Nazi Germany as a narrative bedrock for European albums. Next, they look at another work by Nury, this one illustrated by Brüno. Tyler Cross: Black Rock was originally published by Dargaud in 2013 but offered last year digitally in an English translation from Europe Comics. In terms of of both genre and art, this book is strikingly different from the first one Edward and Derek discuss. Tyler Cross is a gritty crime noir narrative set in the American Southwest, with Brüno's stylized illustrations bringing out its bleak and violent tone. Set alongside Cassaday's realistic art, the book demonstrates the versatility of Nury's collaborative storytelling abilities. The guys also allude to the second book in this series, Tyler Cross: Angola, and speculate on future installments.

Time Codes:

For the October Euro Comics episode, Edward and Derek look at two works written by Fabien Nury. They begin with I Am Legion, recently out from Humanoids and featuring the art of John Cassaday. The story takes place in 1942, and the Nazis are experimenting with a force that could spell the quick end of the war. But this isn't just any military operation. It's one infused with vampiric lore. The guys explore this supernatural, gothic take on the Second World War, discussing along the way the faint presence of the Holocaust as well as the continued fertile ground of Nazi Germany as a narrative bedrock for European albums.

Next, they look at another work by Nury, this one illustrated by Brüno. Tyler Cross: Black Rock was originally published by Dargaud in 2013 but offered last year digitally in an English translation from Europe Comics. In terms of of both genre and art, this book is strikingly different from the first one Edward and Derek discuss. Tyler Cross is a gritty crime noir narrative set in the American Southwest, with Brüno's stylized illustrations bringing out its bleak and violent tone. Set alongside Cassaday's realistic art, the book demonstrates the versatility of Nury's collaborative storytelling abilities. The guys also allude to the second book in this series, Tyler Cross: Angola, and speculate on future installments.

]]> 3495 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Ethan Young http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-ethan-young Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:03:54 - Interview with Ethan Young 01:15:31 - Wrap up 01:16:54 - Contact us Derek and Andy W. have the pleasure of talking with Ethan Young, whose latest work has just been released from from Dark Horse Books. The Battles of Bridget Lee: Invasion of Farfall is tale set in a future world where humans fight an alien race called Marauders, creatures bent on extermination so as to colonize and populate for their own survival. The guys ask Ethan about the genesis of his Mulan-inspired hero, Bridget Lee, and his plans for taking her into further adventures. (Invasion of Farfall reads like the beginning of an action-packed adventure series.) They also take the opportunity to discuss Ethan's notable work from last year, Nanjing: The Burning City, and his long-running webcomic Tails that wrapped up last year. Fri, 07 Oct 2016 13:38:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Defenders Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Setup of interview 00:03:54 - Interview with Ethan Young 01:15:31 - Wrap up 01:16:54 - Contact us Derek and Andy W. have the pleasure of talking with Ethan Young, whose latest work has just been released from from Dark Horse Books. The Battles of Bridget Lee: Invasion of Farfall is tale set in a future world where humans fight an alien race called Marauders, creatures bent on extermination so as to colonize and populate for their own survival. The guys ask Ethan about the genesis of his Mulan-inspired hero, Bridget Lee, and his plans for taking her into further adventures. (Invasion of Farfall reads like the beginning of an action-packed adventure series.) They also take the opportunity to discuss Ethan's notable work from last year, Nanjing: The Burning City, and his long-running webcomic Tails that wrapped up last year.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:49 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:54 - Interview with Ethan Young
  • 01:15:31 - Wrap up
  • 01:16:54 - Contact us

Derek and Andy W. have the pleasure of talking with Ethan Young, whose latest work has just been released from from Dark Horse Books. The Battles of Bridget Lee: Invasion of Farfall is tale set in a future world where humans fight an alien race called Marauders, creatures bent on extermination so as to colonize and populate for their own survival. The guys ask Ethan about the genesis of his Mulan-inspired hero, Bridget Lee, and his plans for taking her into further adventures. (Invasion of Farfall reads like the beginning of an action-packed adventure series.) They also take the opportunity to discuss Ethan's notable work from last year, Nanjing: The Burning City, and his long-running webcomic Tails that wrapped up last year.

]]> 4816 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Jason Shiga http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jason-shiga Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:12 - Setup of interview 03:50 - Interview with Jason Shiga 58:26 - Wrap up 59:54 - Contact us For this interview episode, Paul and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Jason Shiga. The first volume in his Demon series comes out this week from First Second, and the cartoonist goes into a lot of detail about the efforts that eventually led to this publication. As listeners of the podcast well know -- since Demon was first discussed on the show back in December 2014 -- the title began as a webcomic, with Jason self-publishing individual issues in pamphlet form as the story progressed. This endeavor eventually caught the attention of First Second, and now we have the first in a four-volume paperback series. The guys spend most of their time discussing the unique premise of Demon, a fast-paced adventure that questions our foundations of morality, and artist's continued use of his protagonist Jimmy Yee. This is a character that readers might recognize from earlier works such as Bookhunter, Empire State, and Meanwhile, and Jason describes his narrating strategies as similar to Tezuka's star system. Paul and Derek also ask Jason about his penchant for experimenting with form, his use of the webcomics platform, and his ambitious new project, "The Box." Thu, 06 Oct 2016 12:34:48 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "The universe will kick you in the nuts" Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:12 - Setup of interview 03:50 - Interview with Jason Shiga 58:26 - Wrap up 59:54 - Contact us For this interview episode, Paul and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Jason Shiga. The first volume in his Demon series comes out this week from First Second, and the cartoonist goes into a lot of detail about the efforts that eventually led to this publication. As listeners of the podcast well know -- since Demon was first discussed on the show back in December 2014 -- the title began as a webcomic, with Jason self-publishing individual issues in pamphlet form as the story progressed. This endeavor eventually caught the attention of First Second, and now we have the first in a four-volume paperback series. The guys spend most of their time discussing the unique premise of Demon, a fast-paced adventure that questions our foundations of morality, and artist's continued use of his protagonist Jimmy Yee. This is a character that readers might recognize from earlier works such as Bookhunter, Empire State, and Meanwhile, and Jason describes his narrating strategies as similar to Tezuka's star system. Paul and Derek also ask Jason about his penchant for experimenting with form, his use of the webcomics platform, and his ambitious new project, "The Box."

Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:12 - Setup of interview
  • 03:50 - Interview with Jason Shiga
  • 58:26 - Wrap up
  • 59:54 - Contact us

For this interview episode, Paul and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Jason Shiga. The first volume in his Demon series comes out this week from First Second, and the cartoonist goes into a lot of detail about the efforts that eventually led to this publication. As listeners of the podcast well know -- since Demon was first discussed on the show back in December 2014 -- the title began as a webcomic, with Jason self-publishing individual issues in pamphlet form as the story progressed. This endeavor eventually caught the attention of First Second, and now we have the first in a four-volume paperback series.

The guys spend most of their time discussing the unique premise of Demon, a fast-paced adventure that questions our foundations of morality, and artist's continued use of his protagonist Jimmy Yee. This is a character that readers might recognize from earlier works such as Bookhunter, Empire State, and Meanwhile, and Jason describes his narrating strategies as similar to Tezuka's star system. Paul and Derek also ask Jason about his penchant for experimenting with form, his use of the webcomics platform, and his ambitious new project, "The Box."

]]> 3783 yes Episode 208: The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-208-the-october-previews-catalog It's the first week of October, the beginning of the month, so that must mean that it's time once again for Andy and Derek to look through the latest Previews catalog. However, before they delve into the current solicits they take a few moments to thank two new Patreon supporters and welcome them to the noble ranks of Comics Alternative patrons. Then, after a few comments about the upcoming Comics Crossroads Columbus, the Two Guys get  into the meat of the episode. Among the many upcoming titles they highlight from the October Previews catalog are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Dead Inside #1, Moby Dick, and The EC Archives: Valor DC/Vertigo - Hellblazer, Vol. 15: Highwater and Unfollow Vol. 2: God Is Watching IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Locke and Key: Small World, Love Is Love, Gumboils #1, and Jay Disbrow’s Monster Invasion Image Comics - Motor Crush #1, Beowulf, and Scooter Girl Alternative Comics - Dad’s Weekend and Reich #3 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Our Mother BOOM! Studios - Klaus and the Witch of Winter and The Killer, Vol. 5: Fight or Flight Dynamite Entertainment - Grave Surprise Fantagraphics Books - The Life and Legend of Wallace Wood, Vol. 1, Wuvable Oaf: Blood and Metal, and The Million Year Picnic Humanoids - Barbarella and By the Numbers Iron Circus Comics - Shadoweyes, Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 Little Brown and Company - The One Hundred Nights of Hero Nobrow - SP4RX Oni Press - Oh Joy Sex Toy: Coloring Book PS Artbooks - Pre-Code Classics: Space Busters/Space Patrol/Nightmare, Vol. 1 Valiant Entertainment - Divinity III #1 Vertical Comics - Blame! Vol. 2 and Mysterious Girlfriend X, Vol. 4 VIZ Media - Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition z2 Comics - Grave Lillies #1 University Press of Mississippi - The 10 Cent War: Comics Books, Propaganda, and World War II Wed, 05 Oct 2016 11:52:47 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal He-Man Adjacent It's the first week of October, the beginning of the month, so that must mean that it's time once again for Andy and Derek to look through the latest Previews catalog. However, before they delve into the current solicits they take a few moments to thank two new Patreon supporters and welcome them to the noble ranks of Comics Alternative patrons. Then, after a few comments about the upcoming Comics Crossroads Columbus, the Two Guys get  into the meat of the episode. Among the many upcoming titles they highlight from the October Previews catalog are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Dead Inside #1, Moby Dick, and The EC Archives: Valor DC/Vertigo - Hellblazer, Vol. 15: Highwater and Unfollow Vol. 2: God Is Watching IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Locke and Key: Small World, Love Is Love, Gumboils #1, and Jay Disbrow’s Monster Invasion Image Comics - Motor Crush #1, Beowulf, and Scooter Girl Alternative Comics - Dad’s Weekend and Reich #3 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Our Mother BOOM! Studios - Klaus and the Witch of Winter and The Killer, Vol. 5: Fight or Flight Dynamite Entertainment - Grave Surprise Fantagraphics Books - The Life and Legend of Wallace Wood, Vol. 1, Wuvable Oaf: Blood and Metal, and The Million Year Picnic Humanoids - Barbarella and By the Numbers Iron Circus Comics - Shadoweyes, Deluxe Edition, Vol. 1 Little Brown and Company - The One Hundred Nights of Hero Nobrow - SP4RX Oni Press - Oh Joy Sex Toy: Coloring Book PS Artbooks - Pre-Code Classics: Space Busters/Space Patrol/Nightmare, Vol. 1 Valiant Entertainment - Divinity III #1 Vertical Comics - Blame! Vol. 2 and Mysterious Girlfriend X, Vol. 4 VIZ Media - Tomie: Complete Deluxe Edition z2 Comics - Grave Lillies #1 University Press of Mississippi - The 10 Cent War: Comics Books, Propaganda, and World War II

It's the first week of October, the beginning of the month, so that must mean that it's time once again for Andy and Derek to look through the latest Previews catalog. However, before they delve into the current solicits they take a few moments to thank two new Patreon supporters and welcome them to the noble ranks of Comics Alternative patrons. Then, after a few comments about the upcoming Comics Crossroads Columbus, the Two Guys get  into the meat of the episode. Among the many upcoming titles they highlight from the October Previews catalog are from publishers such as

]]> 6200 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Sarah Glidden http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-sarah-glidden Time Codes: 0:00:24 - Introduction 0:02:23 - Setup of interview 0:03:30 - Interview with Sarah Glidden 1:06:53 - Wrap up 1:08:11 - Contact us On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have Sarah Glidden as their guest. Her new book, Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly, and the guys talk with Sarah about this work as well as her previous book, How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less, a new edition of which has also been recently released. They begin by asking Sarah about the differences between, as well as the confluence of, memoir and journalism in her comics, and that speculative tone discussion sets the stage for the rest of the interview. The author goes into detail when sharing her philosophy of writing, and she provides a thorough history surrounding the context of the Rolling Blackouts and its differences from her earlier work. Tue, 04 Oct 2016 12:58:13 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal What Is Journalism? Time Codes: 0:00:24 - Introduction 0:02:23 - Setup of interview 0:03:30 - Interview with Sarah Glidden 1:06:53 - Wrap up 1:08:11 - Contact us On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have Sarah Glidden as their guest. Her new book, Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly, and the guys talk with Sarah about this work as well as her previous book, How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less, a new edition of which has also been recently released. They begin by asking Sarah about the differences between, as well as the confluence of, memoir and journalism in her comics, and that speculative tone discussion sets the stage for the rest of the interview. The author goes into detail when sharing her philosophy of writing, and she provides a thorough history surrounding the context of the Rolling Blackouts and its differences from her earlier work.

Time Codes:

  • 0:00:24 - Introduction
  • 0:02:23 - Setup of interview
  • 0:03:30 - Interview with Sarah Glidden
  • 1:06:53 - Wrap up
  • 1:08:11 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have Sarah Glidden as their guest. Her new book, Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, comes out this week from Drawn and Quarterly, and the guys talk with Sarah about this work as well as her previous book, How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less, a new edition of which has also been recently released. They begin by asking Sarah about the differences between, as well as the confluence of, memoir and journalism in her comics, and that speculative tone discussion sets the stage for the rest of the interview. The author goes into detail when sharing her philosophy of writing, and she provides a thorough history surrounding the context of the Rolling Blackouts and its differences from her earlier work.

]]> 4280 no Young Readers: Reviews of The Backstagers #1 and Snow White http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-the-backstagers-1-and-snow-white Time Codes: 00:27 - Introduction 03:22 - Context for listeners 06:02 - The controversy surrounding Ghosts 30:26 - The Backstagers #1 40:12 - Show White 59:04 - Wrap up 59:28 - Contact us This episode of the Young Readers show begins with a special feature: Andy and Gwen return to a comic that they reviewed for the August YR show, Raina Telgemeier’s Ghosts. They present a revised review of that comic, based upon a number of issues that have been raised in the last month by scholars and librarians regarding cultural appropriation and Telgemeier’s status as an outsider writing about the California missions and about the Dia de los Muertos celebrations that are a common feature of Mexican and Mexican American cultural life. Although the two PhDs typically try to avoid spoilers in their reviews, in this case, they mention specific events in the comic, so if you would like to wait until you have read Ghosts to listen to this segment, know that it occurs between the time codes 6:02 and 30:26. As part of revisiting their discussion of Ghosts, Gwen and Andy bring up a number of resources that readers may wish to consult regarding issues of cultural appropriation, including Dr. Debbie Reese’s blog, American Indians in Children’s Literature; Dr. Laura Jiménez’s blog, Booktoss; and the Reading While White blog that is the creation of a number of librarians who are “allies for racial diversity and inclusion in books for children and teens.” During the regular review portion of the podcast, Andy and Gwen discuss The Backstagers #1, written by James Tynion IV, drawn by Rian Sygh, with color by Walter Baiamonte, and lettering by Jim Campbell. This exciting, fast-paced comic, published by BOOM! Studios, has a lot in common with another BOOM! Studio’s hit series, Lumberjanes, so whether one is a veteran of theater productions or just likes ensemble comics that feature an eclectic cast of characters, then The Backstagers will fill the bill. For his part, Andy applauds Tynion and Sygh’s depiction of the people who do all of the hard work behind the scenes of a theater production, often without acclaim, and Gwen gives the series praise for its inclusion of a number of gay characters who are part of the stage crew. The Backstagers also includes supernatural elements that would appeal to young readers who have an interest in science fiction characters and settings. Next, the two PhDs discuss Matt Phelan’s graphic novel, Snow White (Candlewick Press), an adaptation that is steeped in elements of film noir, and even silent film, while managing to comment on contemporary debates about the ethics of the pursuit of wealth. Set during the Great Depression, the evil queen becomes the Queen of Ziegfield Follies, and all of the energy and emotion of the era is expressed in Phelan’s exceptional watercolor panels that are intricately shaded and carefully colored. Andy discusses Phelan’s impressive career as an award-winning creator of such texts as The Storm in the Barn, which won the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, and he praises Phelan’s decision to allow the often sinister and gritty aspects that characterized eighteenth- and nineteenth-century folktale and fairytale variants to emerge in this version of Snow White. Although readers would not need to be familiar with the origin text, both Andy and Gwen agree that much of the power of the narrative comes from the way that Phelan translates familiar tropes such as the talking mirror into a Depression-era setting. Mon, 03 Oct 2016 13:14:11 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Discussions, Old and New Time Codes: 00:27 - Introduction 03:22 - Context for listeners 06:02 - The controversy surrounding Ghosts 30:26 - The Backstagers #1 40:12 - Show White 59:04 - Wrap up 59:28 - Contact us This episode of the Young Readers show begins with a special feature: Andy and Gwen return to a comic that they reviewed for the August YR show, Raina Telgemeier’s Ghosts. They present a revised review of that comic, based upon a number of issues that have been raised in the last month by scholars and librarians regarding cultural appropriation and Telgemeier’s status as an outsider writing about the California missions and about the Dia de los Muertos celebrations that are a common feature of Mexican and Mexican American cultural life. Although the two PhDs typically try to avoid spoilers in their reviews, in this case, they mention specific events in the comic, so if you would like to wait until you have read Ghosts to listen to this segment, know that it occurs between the time codes 6:02 and 30:26. As part of revisiting their discussion of Ghosts, Gwen and Andy bring up a number of resources that readers may wish to consult regarding issues of cultural appropriation, including Dr. Debbie Reese’s blog, American Indians in Children’s Literature; Dr. Laura Jiménez’s blog, Booktoss; and the Reading While White blog that is the creation of a number of librarians who are “allies for racial diversity and inclusion in books for children and teens.” During the regular review portion of the podcast, Andy and Gwen discuss The Backstagers #1, written by James Tynion IV, drawn by Rian Sygh, with color by Walter Baiamonte, and lettering by Jim Campbell. This exciting, fast-paced comic, published by BOOM! Studios, has a lot in common with another BOOM! Studio’s hit series, Lumberjanes, so whether one is a veteran of theater productions or just likes ensemble comics that feature an eclectic cast of characters, then The Backstagers will fill the bill. For his part, Andy applauds Tynion and Sygh’s depiction of the people who do all of the hard work behind the scenes of a theater production, often without acclaim, and Gwen gives the series praise for its inclusion of a number of gay characters who are part of the stage crew. The Backstagers also includes supernatural elements that would appeal to young readers who have an interest in science fiction characters and settings. Next, the two PhDs discuss Matt Phelan’s graphic novel, Snow White (Candlewick Press), an adaptation that is steeped in elements of film noir, and even silent film, while managing to comment on contemporary debates about the ethics of the pursuit of wealth. Set during the Great Depression, the evil queen becomes the Queen of Ziegfield Follies, and all of the energy and emotion of the era is expressed in Phelan’s exceptional watercolor panels that are intricately shaded and carefully colored. Andy discusses Phelan’s impressive career as an award-winning creator of such texts as The Storm in the Barn, which won the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, and he praises Phelan’s decision to allow the often sinister and gritty aspects that characterized eighteenth- and nineteenth-century folktale and fairytale variants to emerge in this version of Snow White. Although readers would not need to be familiar with the origin text, both Andy and Gwen agree that much of the power of the narrative comes from the way that Phelan translates familiar tropes such as the talking mirror into a Depression-era setting.

Time Codes:

  • 00:27 - Introduction
  • 03:22 - Context for listeners
  • 06:02 - The controversy surrounding Ghosts
  • 30:26 - The Backstagers #1
  • 40:12 - Show White
  • 59:04 - Wrap up
  • 59:28 - Contact us

This episode of the Young Readers show begins with a special feature: Andy and Gwen return to a comic that they reviewed for the August YR show, Raina Telgemeier’s Ghosts. They present a revised review of that comic, based upon a number of issues that have been raised in the last month by scholars and librarians regarding cultural appropriation and Telgemeier’s status as an outsider writing about the California missions and about the Dia de los Muertos celebrations that are a common feature of Mexican and Mexican American cultural life. Although the two PhDs typically try to avoid spoilers in their reviews, in this case, they mention specific events in the comic, so if you would like to wait until you have read Ghosts to listen to this segment, know that it occurs between the time codes 6:02 and 30:26.

As part of revisiting their discussion of Ghosts, Gwen and Andy bring up a number of resources that readers may wish to consult regarding issues of cultural appropriation, including Dr. Debbie Reese’s blog, American Indians in Children’s Literature; Dr. Laura Jiménez’s blog, Booktoss; and the Reading While White blog that is the creation of a number of librarians who are “allies for racial diversity and inclusion in books for children and teens.”

During the regular review portion of the podcast, Andy and Gwen discuss The Backstagers #1, written by James Tynion IV, drawn by Rian Sygh, with color by Walter Baiamonte, and lettering by Jim Campbell. This exciting, fast-paced comic, published by BOOM! Studios, has a lot in common with another BOOM! Studio’s hit series, Lumberjanes, so whether one is a veteran of theater productions or just likes ensemble comics that feature an eclectic cast of characters, then The Backstagers will fill the bill. For his part, Andy applauds Tynion and Sygh’s depiction of the people who do all of the hard work behind the scenes of a theater production, often without acclaim, and Gwen gives the series praise for its inclusion of a number of gay characters who are part of the stage crew. The Backstagers also includes supernatural elements that would appeal to young readers who have an interest in science fiction characters and settings.

Next, the two PhDs discuss Matt Phelan’s graphic novel, Snow White (Candlewick Press), an adaptation that is steeped in elements of film noir, and even silent film, while managing to comment on contemporary debates about the ethics of the pursuit of wealth. Set during the Great Depression, the evil queen becomes the Queen of Ziegfield Follies, and all of the energy and emotion of the era is expressed in Phelan’s exceptional watercolor panels that are intricately shaded and carefully colored. Andy discusses Phelan’s impressive career as an award-winning creator of such texts as The Storm in the Barn, which won the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, and he praises Phelan’s decision to allow the often sinister and gritty aspects that characterized eighteenth- and nineteenth-century folktale and fairytale variants to emerge in this version of Snow White. Although readers would not need to be familiar with the origin text, both Andy and Gwen agree that much of the power of the narrative comes from the way that Phelan translates familiar tropes such as the talking mirror into a Depression-era setting.

]]> 3744 no Comics Alternative Special: A Roundtable Discussion for International Podcast Day 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-special-a-roundtable-discussion-for-international-podcast-day-2016 In celebration of International Podcast Day 2016, Derek participates in a roundtable discussion with fellow comics podcasters, including John Siuntres of Word Balloon, Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library, and John Mayo of Comic Books Page. The four of them talk extensively about their experiences in podcasting, the challenges of working with publishers and creators within the industry, their particular niche interests in comics podcasting, how their shows have evolved over the years, and their "wish lists" for growing as a podcast. Not only do the guys discuss the many facets of podcasting specifically about comics, they also share insights about podcasting as a social media platform. Find out more about International Podcast Day and how you can help promote podcasting worldwide. And be sure to share your thoughts on social media using #PodcastDay. Fri, 30 Sep 2016 12:52:54 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sound Discussion In celebration of International Podcast Day 2016, Derek participates in a roundtable discussion with fellow comics podcasters, including John Siuntres of Word Balloon, Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library, and John Mayo of Comic Books Page. The four of them talk extensively about their experiences in podcasting, the challenges of working with publishers and creators within the industry, their particular niche interests in comics podcasting, how their shows have evolved over the years, and their "wish lists" for growing as a podcast. Not only do the guys discuss the many facets of podcasting specifically about comics, they also share insights about podcasting as a social media platform. Find out more about International Podcast Day and how you can help promote podcasting worldwide. And be sure to share your thoughts on social media using #PodcastDay. In celebration of International Podcast Day 2016, Derek participates in a roundtable discussion with fellow comics podcasters, including John Siuntres of Word Balloon, Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library, and John Mayo of Comic Books Page. The four of them talk extensively about their experiences in podcasting, the challenges of working with publishers and creators within the industry, their particular niche interests in comics podcasting, how their shows have evolved over the years, and their "wish lists" for growing as a podcast. Not only do the guys discuss the many facets of podcasting specifically about comics, they also share insights about podcasting as a social media platform.

Find out more about International Podcast Day and how you can help promote podcasting worldwide. And be sure to share your thoughts on social media using #PodcastDay.

]]> 6039 no Manga: Reviews of Queen Emeraldas, Vol. 1 and Otherworld Barbara, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-queen-emeraldas-vol-1-and-otherworld-barbara-vol-1 Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:51 - Queen Emeraldas, Vol. 1 00:32:13 - Otherworld Barbara, Vol. 1 01:04:54 - Wrap up 01:07:00 - Contact us It's the end of the month, so that must mean it's time for Shea and Derek to look at another round of manga. For September, they discuss two recent releases, the first of which is Leiji Matsumoto's Queen Emeraldas, Vol. 1 (Kodansha Comics). Originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine between 1978 and 1979, this is a science fiction adventure with two protagonists. Hiroshi Umino is a fearless earth boy wants to make his own way in life, and the titular character is a mysterious and much-feared figure who sees in Hiroshi a kindred spirit. Matsumoto is known for these kind of space operas, and the guys aren't entirely sure why more of his manga hasn't yet been translated into English (although Americans may be more familiar with Matsumoto's work in anime). Next, Shea and Derek look at the first of a two-volume collection, Otherworld Barbara. This is the latest in Fantagraphic's translations of Moto Hagio's manga, the previous editions being A Drunken Dream and Other Stories in 2010 and the shōnen-ai classic, The Heart of Thomas, released in 2013. The latest book has a completely different feel from the earlier Hagio translations, as this is a futuristic, psychological drama playing out in a surreal dreamscape. However, don't mistaken this for anything reminiscent of Christopher Nolan's Inception. Derek and Shea spend a lot of time discussing the themes of identity and doubling in this sophisticated narrative, and they eagerly await the completion of the concluding volume.   Thu, 29 Sep 2016 14:20:14 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Outer Space and Dream Space Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:03:51 - Queen Emeraldas, Vol. 1 00:32:13 - Otherworld Barbara, Vol. 1 01:04:54 - Wrap up 01:07:00 - Contact us It's the end of the month, so that must mean it's time for Shea and Derek to look at another round of manga. For September, they discuss two recent releases, the first of which is Leiji Matsumoto's Queen Emeraldas, Vol. 1 (Kodansha Comics). Originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine between 1978 and 1979, this is a science fiction adventure with two protagonists. Hiroshi Umino is a fearless earth boy wants to make his own way in life, and the titular character is a mysterious and much-feared figure who sees in Hiroshi a kindred spirit. Matsumoto is known for these kind of space operas, and the guys aren't entirely sure why more of his manga hasn't yet been translated into English (although Americans may be more familiar with Matsumoto's work in anime). Next, Shea and Derek look at the first of a two-volume collection, Otherworld Barbara. This is the latest in Fantagraphic's translations of Moto Hagio's manga, the previous editions being A Drunken Dream and Other Stories in 2010 and the shōnen-ai classic, The Heart of Thomas, released in 2013. The latest book has a completely different feel from the earlier Hagio translations, as this is a futuristic, psychological drama playing out in a surreal dreamscape. However, don't mistaken this for anything reminiscent of Christopher Nolan's Inception. Derek and Shea spend a lot of time discussing the themes of identity and doubling in this sophisticated narrative, and they eagerly await the completion of the concluding volume.  

Time Codes:

It's the end of the month, so that must mean it's time for Shea and Derek to look at another round of manga. For September, they discuss two recent releases, the first of which is Leiji Matsumoto's Queen Emeraldas, Vol. 1 (Kodansha Comics). Originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine between 1978 and 1979, this is a science fiction adventure with two protagonists. Hiroshi Umino is a fearless earth boy wants to make his own way in life, and the titular character is a mysterious and much-feared figure who sees in Hiroshi a kindred spirit. Matsumoto is known for these kind of space operas, and the guys aren't entirely sure why more of his manga hasn't yet been translated into English (although Americans may be more familiar with Matsumoto's work in anime).

Next, Shea and Derek look at the first of a two-volume collection, Otherworld Barbara. This is the latest in Fantagraphic's translations of Moto Hagio's manga, the previous editions being A Drunken Dream and Other Stories in 2010 and the shōnen-ai classic, The Heart of Thomas, released in 2013. The latest book has a completely different feel from the earlier Hagio translations, as this is a futuristic, psychological drama playing out in a surreal dreamscape. However, don't mistaken this for anything reminiscent of Christopher Nolan's Inception. Derek and Shea spend a lot of time discussing the themes of identity and doubling in this sophisticated narrative, and they eagerly await the completion of the concluding volume.

 

]]> 4263 no Episode 207: Reviews of The Lost Work of Will Eisner, Libby’s Dad, and Blubber #3 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-207-reviews-of-the-lost-work-of-will-eisner-libbys-dad-and-blubber-3 Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:50 - Listener mail 00:09:42 - Comics Alternative news 00:21:20 - The Lost Work of Will Eisner 01:05:07 - Libby's Dad 01:18:31 - Blubber #3 01:37:13 - Wrap up 01:39:14 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles that are quite different in tone. They begin with The Lost Work of Will Eisner, a collection of Eisner's earliest known professional comics. This began as a Kickstarter campaign last year from Locust Moon Press, and just last week the book went on sale to the general public. The collection is made up of two serial strips, the pantomime gag comic Uncle Otto and the espionage adventure Harry Karry. While they do talk about the former, it's Harry Karry that interests the guys more. They spend a lot of time discussing some of the problems of that action-packed strip -- e.g., its racist caricatures and its abrupt shift in narrative direction and art style -- and how it can be read as a testing ground for what Eisner would later do in The Spirit. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to Eleanor Davis's Libby's Dad. This is one of the latest books from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, a publisher that has become a favorite of the show. This is a straightforward and deceptively simple short story about a young girls' pool party and sleepover. The power behind this tale is Davis's ability to focalize the action through her teenage female narrator and to do so in a detached and non-judgmental manner. Finally, Derek and Andy discuss a much less innocent text. Gilbert Hernandez's Blubber #3 (Fantagraphics) is, in many ways, more explicit and more potentially offensive than the previous issue, which the guys discussed back in April. And back then they thought that issue #2 was "worse" than the first. So what is it about Hernandez's obscene free-for-all that keeps drawing the guys' attention? Perhaps they are just on board for everything Hernandez does. Perhaps they see Beto as a happy First Amendment rebel. Perhaps they are mesmerized by Hernandez's attempts to out-Crumb Robert Crumb. Or perhaps Andy and Derek are just two warped sickos who get their jollies talking about offensive comics for the podcast. You decide.   Wed, 28 Sep 2016 02:30:13 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “It is a liquidy issue” Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:50 - Listener mail 00:09:42 - Comics Alternative news 00:21:20 - The Lost Work of Will Eisner 01:05:07 - Libby's Dad 01:18:31 - Blubber #3 01:37:13 - Wrap up 01:39:14 - Contact us This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles that are quite different in tone. They begin with The Lost Work of Will Eisner, a collection of Eisner's earliest known professional comics. This began as a Kickstarter campaign last year from Locust Moon Press, and just last week the book went on sale to the general public. The collection is made up of two serial strips, the pantomime gag comic Uncle Otto and the espionage adventure Harry Karry. While they do talk about the former, it's Harry Karry that interests the guys more. They spend a lot of time discussing some of the problems of that action-packed strip -- e.g., its racist caricatures and its abrupt shift in narrative direction and art style -- and how it can be read as a testing ground for what Eisner would later do in The Spirit. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to Eleanor Davis's Libby's Dad. This is one of the latest books from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, a publisher that has become a favorite of the show. This is a straightforward and deceptively simple short story about a young girls' pool party and sleepover. The power behind this tale is Davis's ability to focalize the action through her teenage female narrator and to do so in a detached and non-judgmental manner. Finally, Derek and Andy discuss a much less innocent text. Gilbert Hernandez's Blubber #3 (Fantagraphics) is, in many ways, more explicit and more potentially offensive than the previous issue, which the guys discussed back in April. And back then they thought that issue #2 was "worse" than the first. So what is it about Hernandez's obscene free-for-all that keeps drawing the guys' attention? Perhaps they are just on board for everything Hernandez does. Perhaps they see Beto as a happy First Amendment rebel. Perhaps they are mesmerized by Hernandez's attempts to out-Crumb Robert Crumb. Or perhaps Andy and Derek are just two warped sickos who get their jollies talking about offensive comics for the podcast. You decide.  

Time Codes:

This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles that are quite different in tone. They begin with The Lost Work of Will Eisner, a collection of Eisner's earliest known professional comics. This began as a Kickstarter campaign last year from Locust Moon Press, and just last week the book went on sale to the general public. The collection is made up of two serial strips, the pantomime gag comic Uncle Otto and the espionage adventure Harry Karry. While they do talk about the former, it's Harry Karry that interests the guys more. They spend a lot of time discussing some of the problems of that action-packed strip -- e.g., its racist caricatures and its abrupt shift in narrative direction and art style -- and how it can be read as a testing ground for what Eisner would later do in The Spirit.

Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to Eleanor Davis's Libby's Dad. This is one of the latest books from Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics, a publisher that has become a favorite of the show. This is a straightforward and deceptively simple short story about a young girls' pool party and sleepover. The power behind this tale is Davis's ability to focalize the action through her teenage female narrator and to do so in a detached and non-judgmental manner.

Finally, Derek and Andy discuss a much less innocent text. Gilbert Hernandez's Blubber #3 (Fantagraphics) is, in many ways, more explicit and more potentially offensive than the previous issue, which the guys discussed back in April. And back then they thought that issue #2 was "worse" than the first. So what is it about Hernandez's obscene free-for-all that keeps drawing the guys' attention? Perhaps they are just on board for everything Hernandez does. Perhaps they see Beto as a happy First Amendment rebel. Perhaps they are mesmerized by Hernandez's attempts to out-Crumb Robert Crumb. Or perhaps Andy and Derek are just two warped sickos who get their jollies talking about offensive comics for the podcast. You decide.

 

]]> 6170 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Andy Hirsch http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-andy-hirsch Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:25 - Setup of interview 03:32 - Interview with Andy Hirsch 48:38 - Wrap up 49:43 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) are happy to have Andy Hirsch as their guest. Actually, Andy has been on the podcast a number of times before, but usually for short interviews at on-location events. But now, for the first time, Andy Hirsch sits down with Derek and Andy for a sustained episode-long conversation. Most of their discussion centers on Andy's brand new book, Varmints, just out from First Second. Andy shares the genesis of the premise and how he first began mapping out his characters in a series of self-published minicomics. The guys also talk about the all-age focus of Varmints and how a publisher like First Second is the perfect platform to reach a broader audience. But they also discuss Andy's other works, such as the recently-completed Baker Street Peculiars (co-created with Roger Langdridge), his work on Garfield, and even his earlier miniseries, The Royal Historian of Oz (along with Tommy Kovac). Andy Hirsch is a long-time friend of show, so this interview is more like a coming home than an introduction. Tue, 27 Sep 2016 11:53:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Western Fun Time Codes: 00:24 - Introduction 02:25 - Setup of interview 03:32 - Interview with Andy Hirsch 48:38 - Wrap up 49:43 - Contact us The Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) are happy to have Andy Hirsch as their guest. Actually, Andy has been on the podcast a number of times before, but usually for short interviews at on-location events. But now, for the first time, Andy Hirsch sits down with Derek and Andy for a sustained episode-long conversation. Most of their discussion centers on Andy's brand new book, Varmints, just out from First Second. Andy shares the genesis of the premise and how he first began mapping out his characters in a series of self-published minicomics. The guys also talk about the all-age focus of Varmints and how a publisher like First Second is the perfect platform to reach a broader audience. But they also discuss Andy's other works, such as the recently-completed Baker Street Peculiars (co-created with Roger Langdridge), his work on Garfield, and even his earlier miniseries, The Royal Historian of Oz (along with Tommy Kovac). Andy Hirsch is a long-time friend of show, so this interview is more like a coming home than an introduction.

Time Codes:

  • 00:24 - Introduction
  • 02:25 - Setup of interview
  • 03:32 - Interview with Andy Hirsch
  • 48:38 - Wrap up
  • 49:43 - Contact us

The Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) are happy to have Andy Hirsch as their guest. Actually, Andy has been on the podcast a number of times before, but usually for short interviews at on-location events. But now, for the first time, Andy Hirsch sits down with Derek and Andy for a sustained episode-long conversation. Most of their discussion centers on Andy's brand new book, Varmints, just out from First Second. Andy shares the genesis of the premise and how he first began mapping out his characters in a series of self-published minicomics. The guys also talk about the all-age focus of Varmints and how a publisher like First Second is the perfect platform to reach a broader audience. But they also discuss Andy's other works, such as the recently-completed Baker Street Peculiars (co-created with Roger Langdridge), his work on Garfield, and even his earlier miniseries, The Royal Historian of Oz (along with Tommy Kovac). Andy Hirsch is a long-time friend of show, so this interview is more like a coming home than an introduction.

]]> 3172 no On Location: Talking with Creators at SPX 2016, Pt. 3 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-spx-2016-pt-3 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Set up of episode 00:03:31 - Interview with Theora Kvitka 00:07:264 - Interview with Sophie Goldstein 00:16:21 - Interview with Melanie Gillman 00:23:14 - Interview with Carolyn Nowak 00:28:28 - Interview with Zack Soto 00:37:11 - Interview with Jarod Roselló 00:42:58 - Interview with Kevin Budnik 00:50:57 - Interview with Andrea Tsurumi 01:01:21 - Interview with Julia Gfrörer 01:09:11 - Interview with Joshua W. Cotter 01:16:08 - Wrap up 01:16:57 - Contact us In this final episode of the on-location interviews conducted at Small Press Expo last weekend, Derek talks with Theora Kvitka, Sophie Goldstein, Melanie Gillman, Carolyn Nowak, Zack Soto, Jarod Roselló, Kevin Budnik, Andrea Tsurumi, Julia Gfrörer, and Joshua W. Cotter. Much thanks to everyone who was a part of these SPX episodes, the creators as well as the publishers, and who made all of these recordings possible! Mon, 26 Sep 2016 12:38:41 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Let's Get Small...One Last Time Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Set up of episode 00:03:31 - Interview with Theora Kvitka 00:07:264 - Interview with Sophie Goldstein 00:16:21 - Interview with Melanie Gillman 00:23:14 - Interview with Carolyn Nowak 00:28:28 - Interview with Zack Soto 00:37:11 - Interview with Jarod Roselló 00:42:58 - Interview with Kevin Budnik 00:50:57 - Interview with Andrea Tsurumi 01:01:21 - Interview with Julia Gfrörer 01:09:11 - Interview with Joshua W. Cotter 01:16:08 - Wrap up 01:16:57 - Contact us In this final episode of the on-location interviews conducted at Small Press Expo last weekend, Derek talks with Theora Kvitka, Sophie Goldstein, Melanie Gillman, Carolyn Nowak, Zack Soto, Jarod Roselló, Kevin Budnik, Andrea Tsurumi, Julia Gfrörer, and Joshua W. Cotter. Much thanks to everyone who was a part of these SPX episodes, the creators as well as the publishers, and who made all of these recordings possible!

Time Codes:

In this final episode of the on-location interviews conducted at Small Press Expo last weekend, Derek talks with Theora Kvitka, Sophie Goldstein, Melanie Gillman, Carolyn Nowak, Zack Soto, Jarod Roselló, Kevin Budnik, Andrea Tsurumi, Julia Gfrörer, and Joshua W. Cotter. Much thanks to everyone who was a part of these SPX episodes, the creators as well as the publishers, and who made all of these recordings possible!

]]> 4799 no On Location: Talking with Creators at SPX 2016, Pt. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-spx-2016-pt-2 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Set up of episode 00:03:36 - Interview with Jessica Campbell 00:18:04 - Interview with Molly Ostertag 00:23:19 - Interview with Pranas T. Naujokaitis 00:33:59 - Interview with Luke Healy 00:41:54 - Interview with Kel McDonald 00:47:51 - Interview with Dakota McFadzean 00:55:23 - Interview with C. Spike Trotman 01:02:21 - Interview with Cheese Hasselberger 01:06:21 - Interview with Keiler Roberts 01:12:54 - Wrap up 01:13:38 - Contact us In this second in a three-episode series of on-location interviews conducted at Small Press Expo this past weekend, Derek talks with Jessica Campbell, Molly Ostertag, Pranas Naujokaitis, Luke Healy, Kel McDonald, Dakota McFadzean, C. Spike Trotman, Cheese Hasselburger, and Keiler Roberts. Fri, 23 Sep 2016 15:26:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Let's Get Small...Again Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:25 - Set up of episode 00:03:36 - Interview with Jessica Campbell 00:18:04 - Interview with Molly Ostertag 00:23:19 - Interview with Pranas T. Naujokaitis 00:33:59 - Interview with Luke Healy 00:41:54 - Interview with Kel McDonald 00:47:51 - Interview with Dakota McFadzean 00:55:23 - Interview with C. Spike Trotman 01:02:21 - Interview with Cheese Hasselberger 01:06:21 - Interview with Keiler Roberts 01:12:54 - Wrap up 01:13:38 - Contact us In this second in a three-episode series of on-location interviews conducted at Small Press Expo this past weekend, Derek talks with Jessica Campbell, Molly Ostertag, Pranas Naujokaitis, Luke Healy, Kel McDonald, Dakota McFadzean, C. Spike Trotman, Cheese Hasselburger, and Keiler Roberts.

Time Codes:

In this second in a three-episode series of on-location interviews conducted at Small Press Expo this past weekend, Derek talks with Jessica Campbell, Molly Ostertag, Pranas Naujokaitis, Luke Healy, Kel McDonald, Dakota McFadzean, C. Spike Trotman, Cheese Hasselburger, and Keiler Roberts.

]]> 4598 yes On Location: Talking with Creators at SPX 2016, Pt. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-spx-2016-pt-1 Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:12 - Set up of episode 00:03:54 - Interview with John Martz 00:17:55 - Interview with Jay Hosler 00:24:38 - Interview with Blue Delliquanti 00:34:13 - Interview with Ulises Fariñas and Storme Smith 00:36:13 - Interview with Ted Stearn 00:59:16 - Interview with Emma Glaze 01:01:07 - Interview with Daryl Seitchik 01:13:08 - Interview with Sean O'Neill 01:16:29 - Wrap up 01:17:10 - Contact us This past weekend, Andy W. and Derek attended Small Press Expo in North Bethesda, MD. While there, the Two Guys interviewed a variety of creators about their recent releases and their upcoming projects. In all, Derek and Andy were able to conduct 27 different interviews, each of which lasted from anywhere between 2 minutes to over 20 minutes. The guys have now edited these conversations and are presenting them in a series of three on-location interview episodes conducted at SPX. In this first installment, Derek and Andy talk with John Martz, Jay Hosler, Blue Delliquanti, Ulises Fariñas, Storm Smith, Ted Stearn, Emma Glaze, Daryl Seitchik, and Sean O'Neill. Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:03:31 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Let's Get Small Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:02:12 - Set up of episode 00:03:54 - Interview with John Martz 00:17:55 - Interview with Jay Hosler 00:24:38 - Interview with Blue Delliquanti 00:34:13 - Interview with Ulises Fariñas and Storme Smith 00:36:13 - Interview with Ted Stearn 00:59:16 - Interview with Emma Glaze 01:01:07 - Interview with Daryl Seitchik 01:13:08 - Interview with Sean O'Neill 01:16:29 - Wrap up 01:17:10 - Contact us This past weekend, Andy W. and Derek attended Small Press Expo in North Bethesda, MD. While there, the Two Guys interviewed a variety of creators about their recent releases and their upcoming projects. In all, Derek and Andy were able to conduct 27 different interviews, each of which lasted from anywhere between 2 minutes to over 20 minutes. The guys have now edited these conversations and are presenting them in a series of three on-location interview episodes conducted at SPX. In this first installment, Derek and Andy talk with John Martz, Jay Hosler, Blue Delliquanti, Ulises Fariñas, Storm Smith, Ted Stearn, Emma Glaze, Daryl Seitchik, and Sean O'Neill.

Time Codes:

This past weekend, Andy W. and Derek attended Small Press Expo in North Bethesda, MD. While there, the Two Guys interviewed a variety of creators about their recent releases and their upcoming projects. In all, Derek and Andy were able to conduct 27 different interviews, each of which lasted from anywhere between 2 minutes to over 20 minutes. The guys have now edited these conversations and are presenting them in a series of three on-location interview episodes conducted at SPX. In this first installment, Derek and Andy talk with John Martz, Jay Hosler, Blue Delliquanti, Ulises Fariñas, Storm Smith, Ted Stearn, Emma Glaze, Daryl Seitchik, and Sean O'Neill.

]]> 4809 no Episode 206: SPX 2016 and the Ignatz Awards http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-206-spx-2016-and-the-ignatz-awards Last weekend was the Small Press Expo held in Bethesda, MD, and a big part of that event was the recognition of the 2016 Ignatz Award nominees. So for this week's episode, Gwen and Derek discuss the many and diverse titles populating that list, looking for trends and making observations about this year's selections. The nominees in all nine categories, announced last month, were chosen by a five-member jury, and then attendees voted on their favorites during the first day of the event. Gwen starts things going by asking Derek about his experiences at SPX, and then the two plunge into the heart of the discussion. They do not run down the entire list of nominees in an organized manner, beginning with one category and then moving on to the next, but their exchange is more free-flowing and associational, taking up titles as they come up in the conversation. In this way, Gwen and Derek are able to cover about all of the nominees and draw insightful connections among many of the texts. They notice, for example, that many of the winners seem to skew younger, and that, at times, complex and longer-form storytelling doesn't get the same kind of attention as episodic or one-off narratives. They also comment on the fact that established names within the medium, such as Daniel Clowes, Adrian Tomine, Trina Robbins, and Kim Deitch, were completely shut out in the final selection. However, Gwen and Derek do not so much emphasize the actual winners of the nine categories -- although they do discuss these -- as they do the broader sweep of each category's population and what that might say about the current state of small press and indie comics. Wed, 21 Sep 2016 11:05:49 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Independants Day Last weekend was the Small Press Expo held in Bethesda, MD, and a big part of that event was the recognition of the 2016 Ignatz Award nominees. So for this week's episode, Gwen and Derek discuss the many and diverse titles populating that list, looking for trends and making observations about this year's selections. The nominees in all nine categories, announced last month, were chosen by a five-member jury, and then attendees voted on their favorites during the first day of the event. Gwen starts things going by asking Derek about his experiences at SPX, and then the two plunge into the heart of the discussion. They do not run down the entire list of nominees in an organized manner, beginning with one category and then moving on to the next, but their exchange is more free-flowing and associational, taking up titles as they come up in the conversation. In this way, Gwen and Derek are able to cover about all of the nominees and draw insightful connections among many of the texts. They notice, for example, that many of the winners seem to skew younger, and that, at times, complex and longer-form storytelling doesn't get the same kind of attention as episodic or one-off narratives. They also comment on the fact that established names within the medium, such as Daniel Clowes, Adrian Tomine, Trina Robbins, and Kim Deitch, were completely shut out in the final selection. However, Gwen and Derek do not so much emphasize the actual winners of the nine categories -- although they do discuss these -- as they do the broader sweep of each category's population and what that might say about the current state of small press and indie comics.

Last weekend was the Small Press Expo held in Bethesda, MD, and a big part of that event was the recognition of the 2016 Ignatz Award nominees. So for this week's episode, Gwen and Derek discuss the many and diverse titles populating that list, looking for trends and making observations about this year's selections. The nominees in all nine categories, announced last month, were chosen by a five-member jury, and then attendees voted on their favorites during the first day of the event. Gwen starts things going by asking Derek about his experiences at SPX, and then the two plunge into the heart of the discussion. They do not run down the entire list of nominees in an organized manner, beginning with one category and then moving on to the next, but their exchange is more free-flowing and associational, taking up titles as they come up in the conversation. In this way, Gwen and Derek are able to cover about all of the nominees and draw insightful connections among many of the texts. They notice, for example, that many of the winners seem to skew younger, and that, at times, complex and longer-form storytelling doesn't get the same kind of attention as episodic or one-off narratives. They also comment on the fact that established names within the medium, such as Daniel Clowes, Adrian Tomine, Trina Robbins, and Kim Deitch, were completely shut out in the final selection. However, Gwen and Derek do not so much emphasize the actual winners of the nine categories -- although they do discuss these -- as they do the broader sweep of each category's population and what that might say about the current state of small press and indie comics.

]]> 6096 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Carol Tyler http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-carol-tyler Last week at Small Press Expo, Derek had the opportunity to sit down with Carol Tyler for a one-on-one interview. Her book from last year, Soldier's Heart: The Campaign to Understand My WWII Veteran Father: A Daughter's Memoir (Fantagraphics) was up for a 2016 Ignatz Award in the "Outstanding Graphic Novel" category. Derek talked with Carol about the book's nomination and about the impact her memoir has had on her own life since its publication. They spend a good deal of time talking about the current state of veteran's affairs, the debilitating effects of PTSD, and how Soldier's Heart both has and hasn't resonated within the veteran's community. Carol also discusses the current projects she has underway, including a follow up (sort of) to her father's story and a project documenting the days leading up to her attending The Beatles concert at Comiskey Park in August 1965. As she tells Derek, in that work she'll be channelling her inner 13-year-old-girl self. This is a moving and, at times, a deeply personal interview, one that reflects the sheer impact of Carol Tyler's writing. Tue, 20 Sep 2016 12:29:35 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal You'll Never Know Last week at Small Press Expo, Derek had the opportunity to sit down with Carol Tyler for a one-on-one interview. Her book from last year, Soldier's Heart: The Campaign to Understand My WWII Veteran Father: A Daughter's Memoir (Fantagraphics) was up for a 2016 Ignatz Award in the "Outstanding Graphic Novel" category. Derek talked with Carol about the book's nomination and about the impact her memoir has had on her own life since its publication. They spend a good deal of time talking about the current state of veteran's affairs, the debilitating effects of PTSD, and how Soldier's Heart both has and hasn't resonated within the veteran's community. Carol also discusses the current projects she has underway, including a follow up (sort of) to her father's story and a project documenting the days leading up to her attending The Beatles concert at Comiskey Park in August 1965. As she tells Derek, in that work she'll be channelling her inner 13-year-old-girl self. This is a moving and, at times, a deeply personal interview, one that reflects the sheer impact of Carol Tyler's writing. Last week at Small Press Expo, Derek had the opportunity to sit down with Carol Tyler for a one-on-one interview. Her book from last year, Soldier's Heart: The Campaign to Understand My WWII Veteran Father: A Daughter's Memoir (Fantagraphics) was up for a 2016 Ignatz Award in the "Outstanding Graphic Novel" category. Derek talked with Carol about the book's nomination and about the impact her memoir has had on her own life since its publication. They spend a good deal of time talking about the current state of veteran's affairs, the debilitating effects of PTSD, and how Soldier's Heart both has and hasn't resonated within the veteran's community. Carol also discusses the current projects she has underway, including a follow up (sort of) to her father's story and a project documenting the days leading up to her attending The Beatles concert at Comiskey Park in August 1965. As she tells Derek, in that work she'll be channelling her inner 13-year-old-girl self. This is a moving and, at times, a deeply personal interview, one that reflects the sheer impact of Carol Tyler's writing.

]]> 3890 yes On Location: The September Visit to Valhalla Games and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-september-visit-to-valhalla-games-and-comics The September on-location episode marks a first for The Comics Alternative. Derek is now talking with customers and employees at Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX...which is at the same exact physical location where he's been doing the on-location show for the past few years. What had once been Collected is now Valhalla! But the people and comics inside have remained the same. Talking with Derek this month are some of the shop regulars, including Krystle, Craig, and Nick. They begin by discussing the recent change in ownership -- and, unfortunately, neither Valhalla's owner, David Larson, nor Sabrina, the shop manager, were able to be there -- and everyone's excitement over the changes in store. But then they get into the core of this month's discussion, which is on crime comics. Craig comes prepared with a big stack of recent examples, including The Fix, The Baker Street Peculiars, and The Black Monday Murders. And Nick chimes in with crime titles he'd recommend, as well. The conversation gets even more lively when Derek questions Craig on his definition of "superhero," which he seems to apply in a much less discriminating way than the others. They spend a good deal of time discussing examples of outright noir, such as Scalped and 100 Bullets, and genre-blending crime comics such as Fatale, Weird Detective, and even The Spirit. All in all, this was a successful first recording at the new Valhalla Games and Comics! Fri, 16 Sep 2016 02:14:46 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Different Name, Same Great Taste! The September on-location episode marks a first for The Comics Alternative. Derek is now talking with customers and employees at Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX...which is at the same exact physical location where he's been doing the on-location show for the past few years. What had once been Collected is now Valhalla! But the people and comics inside have remained the same. Talking with Derek this month are some of the shop regulars, including Krystle, Craig, and Nick. They begin by discussing the recent change in ownership -- and, unfortunately, neither Valhalla's owner, David Larson, nor Sabrina, the shop manager, were able to be there -- and everyone's excitement over the changes in store. But then they get into the core of this month's discussion, which is on crime comics. Craig comes prepared with a big stack of recent examples, including The Fix, The Baker Street Peculiars, and The Black Monday Murders. And Nick chimes in with crime titles he'd recommend, as well. The conversation gets even more lively when Derek questions Craig on his definition of "superhero," which he seems to apply in a much less discriminating way than the others. They spend a good deal of time discussing examples of outright noir, such as Scalped and 100 Bullets, and genre-blending crime comics such as Fatale, Weird Detective, and even The Spirit. All in all, this was a successful first recording at the new Valhalla Games and Comics!

The September on-location episode marks a first for The Comics Alternative. Derek is now talking with customers and employees at Valhalla Games and Comics in Plano, TX...which is at the same exact physical location where he's been doing the on-location show for the past few years. What had once been Collected is now Valhalla! But the people and comics inside have remained the same. Talking with Derek this month are some of the shop regulars, including Krystle, Craig, and Nick. They begin by discussing the recent change in ownership -- and, unfortunately, neither Valhalla's owner, David Larson, nor Sabrina, the shop manager, were able to be there -- and everyone's excitement over the changes in store. But then they get into the core of this month's discussion, which is on crime comics. Craig comes prepared with a big stack of recent examples, including The Fix, The Baker Street Peculiars, and The Black Monday Murders. And Nick chimes in with crime titles he'd recommend, as well. The conversation gets even more lively when Derek questions Craig on his definition of "superhero," which he seems to apply in a much less discriminating way than the others. They spend a good deal of time discussing examples of outright noir, such as Scalped and 100 Bullets, and genre-blending crime comics such as Fatale, Weird Detective, and even The Spirit. All in all, this was a successful first recording at the new Valhalla Games and Comics!

]]> 4482 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Erica Mena http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-erica-mena Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:05:05 - Interview with Erica Mena 00:53:01 - Wrap up 00:54:14 - Contact us On this episode of the interview series, Edward and Derek have as their guest Erica Mena. She is the translator of two recent Spanish-language works from Fantagraphics, Paco Roca's Wrinkles and the anthology Spanish Fever. The guys actually discussed the latter on this month's Euro Comics episode, and since Edward knew its translator, they thought it'd be revealing to get Erica on the podcast to talk about her work on the anthology. They spend a good deal of time discussing the Spanish Fever project, and they also talk extensively about Wrinkles (something Edward and Derek didn't have time for on the Euro Comics show). But the guys also ask Erica about her efforts on The Eternaut, Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López's classic sci-fi narrative that was finally translated into English and published last year. During her conversation with the guys, Erica shares some of her philosophy of translation, compares professional notes with Edward, and discusses how her own poetry has helped determine the kind of translator that she's become. Visit Erica's website and discover her love of animated cats! Thu, 15 Sep 2016 13:05:11 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal In Other Words Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:05:05 - Interview with Erica Mena 00:53:01 - Wrap up 00:54:14 - Contact us On this episode of the interview series, Edward and Derek have as their guest Erica Mena. She is the translator of two recent Spanish-language works from Fantagraphics, Paco Roca's Wrinkles and the anthology Spanish Fever. The guys actually discussed the latter on this month's Euro Comics episode, and since Edward knew its translator, they thought it'd be revealing to get Erica on the podcast to talk about her work on the anthology. They spend a good deal of time discussing the Spanish Fever project, and they also talk extensively about Wrinkles (something Edward and Derek didn't have time for on the Euro Comics show). But the guys also ask Erica about her efforts on The Eternaut, Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López's classic sci-fi narrative that was finally translated into English and published last year. During her conversation with the guys, Erica shares some of her philosophy of translation, compares professional notes with Edward, and discusses how her own poetry has helped determine the kind of translator that she's become. Visit Erica's website and discover her love of animated cats!

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:28 - Setup of interview
  • 00:05:05 - Interview with Erica Mena
  • 00:53:01 - Wrap up
  • 00:54:14 - Contact us

On this episode of the interview series, Edward and Derek have as their guest Erica Mena. She is the translator of two recent Spanish-language works from Fantagraphics, Paco Roca's Wrinkles and the anthology Spanish Fever. The guys actually discussed the latter on this month's Euro Comics episode, and since Edward knew its translator, they thought it'd be revealing to get Erica on the podcast to talk about her work on the anthology. They spend a good deal of time discussing the Spanish Fever project, and they also talk extensively about Wrinkles (something Edward and Derek didn't have time for on the Euro Comics show). But the guys also ask Erica about her efforts on The Eternaut, Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López's classic sci-fi narrative that was finally translated into English and published last year. During her conversation with the guys, Erica shares some of her philosophy of translation, compares professional notes with Edward, and discusses how her own poetry has helped determine the kind of translator that she's become.

Visit Erica's website and discover her love of animated cats!

]]> 3443 no Episode 205: Reviews of Angel Catbird, Vol. 1, Everafter #1, and Glitterbomb #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-205-reviews-of-angel-catbird-vol-1-everafter-1-and-glitterbomb-1 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:32 - Comics Alternative news 00:05:57 - Angel Catbird, Vol. 1 00:39:10 - Everafter #1 00:52:07 - Glitterbomb #1 01:05:39 - Wrap up 01:06:41 - Contact us On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three recent texts, each fantastical in its own way. They begin with Margaret Atwood and Johnnie Christmas's Angel Catbird, Vol. 1 (Dark Horse Books), a unique amalgamation of Golden Age superhero comics, environmental awareness, and ailurophilia. This is the first mainstream comics foray for Atwood, a Canadian novelist, poet, and winner of the Man Booker Prize. Andy and Derek spend a good deal of time talking about the tone of this book as well as its intended, or perhaps inferred, readers. They also sense a faint whiff of "Omaha" the Cat Dancer. Next, the guys turn their attention to the new addition to the Fables world, Everafter #1 (Vertigo Comics). Written by David Justus and Matthew Sturges, and with art by Travis Moore, this new title picks up where Bill Willingham's long-running series left off. Several of the old Fables make their ways into this first issue, but what appears to distinguish Everafter from the original run is its emphasis on adventure, similar to Chris Roberson's Cinderella stories. Finally, Andy and Derek discuss the first issue in the new Image Comics series, Glitterbomb. This is Jim Zub's look at the exploitative nature of Hollywood culture, but with a healthy dose of horror thrown in. The guys wonder if this series will adopt a polemical tone similar to Bitch Planet. And they are especially taken by the art of newcomer Djibril Morissette-Phan.   Wed, 14 Sep 2016 11:52:43 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Show for Furries? Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:32 - Comics Alternative news 00:05:57 - Angel Catbird, Vol. 1 00:39:10 - Everafter #1 00:52:07 - Glitterbomb #1 01:05:39 - Wrap up 01:06:41 - Contact us On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three recent texts, each fantastical in its own way. They begin with Margaret Atwood and Johnnie Christmas's Angel Catbird, Vol. 1 (Dark Horse Books), a unique amalgamation of Golden Age superhero comics, environmental awareness, and ailurophilia. This is the first mainstream comics foray for Atwood, a Canadian novelist, poet, and winner of the Man Booker Prize. Andy and Derek spend a good deal of time talking about the tone of this book as well as its intended, or perhaps inferred, readers. They also sense a faint whiff of "Omaha" the Cat Dancer. Next, the guys turn their attention to the new addition to the Fables world, Everafter #1 (Vertigo Comics). Written by David Justus and Matthew Sturges, and with art by Travis Moore, this new title picks up where Bill Willingham's long-running series left off. Several of the old Fables make their ways into this first issue, but what appears to distinguish Everafter from the original run is its emphasis on adventure, similar to Chris Roberson's Cinderella stories. Finally, Andy and Derek discuss the first issue in the new Image Comics series, Glitterbomb. This is Jim Zub's look at the exploitative nature of Hollywood culture, but with a healthy dose of horror thrown in. The guys wonder if this series will adopt a polemical tone similar to Bitch Planet. And they are especially taken by the art of newcomer Djibril Morissette-Phan.  

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:30 - Introduction
  • 00:02:32 - Comics Alternative news
  • 00:05:57 - Angel Catbird, Vol. 1
  • 00:39:10 - Everafter #1
  • 00:52:07 - Glitterbomb #1
  • 01:05:39 - Wrap up
  • 01:06:41 - Contact us

On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three recent texts, each fantastical in its own way. They begin with Margaret Atwood and Johnnie Christmas's Angel Catbird, Vol. 1 (Dark Horse Books), a unique amalgamation of Golden Age superhero comics, environmental awareness, and ailurophilia. This is the first mainstream comics foray for Atwood, a Canadian novelist, poet, and winner of the Man Booker Prize. Andy and Derek spend a good deal of time talking about the tone of this book as well as its intended, or perhaps inferred, readers. They also sense a faint whiff of "Omaha" the Cat Dancer.

Next, the guys turn their attention to the new addition to the Fables world, Everafter #1 (Vertigo Comics). Written by David Justus and Matthew Sturges, and with art by Travis Moore, this new title picks up where Bill Willingham's long-running series left off. Several of the old Fables make their ways into this first issue, but what appears to distinguish Everafter from the original run is its emphasis on adventure, similar to Chris Roberson's Cinderella stories.

Finally, Andy and Derek discuss the first issue in the new Image Comics series, Glitterbomb. This is Jim Zub's look at the exploitative nature of Hollywood culture, but with a healthy dose of horror thrown in. The guys wonder if this series will adopt a polemical tone similar to Bitch Planet. And they are especially taken by the art of newcomer Djibril Morissette-Phan.

 

]]> 4209 no Webcomics: Reviews of The Red Hook, Kill 6 Billion Demons, and Rice Boy http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-red-hook-kill-6-billion-demons-and-rice-boy Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:07:03 - Brief comments on the 2016 Ignatz Award nominees for Outstanding Online Comic 00:18:07 - The Red Hook 00:57:28 - Kill 6 Billion Demons 01:21:11 - Interview with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:41:15 - Rice Boy 02:13:55 - Wrap up 02:15:30 - Contact us On this extra-long episode of The Comics Alternative Webcomics, Sean and Derek cover a lot of territory on the webcomics front. They begin with a few brief comments on this year's Ignatz Award nominees for Outstanding Online Comic. They also contrast the way that the Ignatz judges classify webcomics with what the Eisner Awards has been doing lately, combining webcomics and digital comics. After that, the guys jump into the core of this month's episode with a look at Dean Haspiel's The Red Hook. They discuss, among other things, the fact that superhero comics are relatively rare in webcomics and that this title is reminiscent of what Haspiel did with The Fox, for Archie Comics, and with his own comics centered on Billy Dogma and Jane Legit. Sean and Derek also spend a bit of time talking about Webtoons, the platform where you'll find The Red Hook. Next, they review Kill 6 Billion Demons. Both of the guys are impressed by Tom Parkinson-Morgan's art and the intricacies involved in his world-building, but they are somewhat critical of the webcomic's design and usability. It's not easy to navigate that site, which is surprising, given the fact that Kill 6 Billion Demons has been around since 2013. Before they turn to the final webcomic of the month, Derek and Sean introduce what they hope will be a new feature of the monthly series. Beginning with this episode, they will talk briefly with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz about a new webcomics they're creating, Poe and the Mysteriads. Every month they hope to check in with the creators about the step-by-step process they're going through in developing the title, from story concept to art choices to the design of the website. Finally, Sean and Derek look at Evan Dahm's already completed webcomic, Rice Boy. This is the second time Dahm's work has been a focus of the webcomics series, the first occasion being a discussion of Vattu back in January 2015. This is a much earlier webcomic, and the guys discuss the evolution of Dahm's art and storytelling style as the story develops. It's an intriguing fantastical quest narrative, and if you're not already familiar with Dahm, then this would be a great way to get to know his work.     Mon, 12 Sep 2016 16:04:04 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Reluctant Heroes Time Codes: 00:00:27 - Introduction 00:07:03 - Brief comments on the 2016 Ignatz Award nominees for Outstanding Online Comic 00:18:07 - The Red Hook 00:57:28 - Kill 6 Billion Demons 01:21:11 - Interview with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz 01:41:15 - Rice Boy 02:13:55 - Wrap up 02:15:30 - Contact us On this extra-long episode of The Comics Alternative Webcomics, Sean and Derek cover a lot of territory on the webcomics front. They begin with a few brief comments on this year's Ignatz Award nominees for Outstanding Online Comic. They also contrast the way that the Ignatz judges classify webcomics with what the Eisner Awards has been doing lately, combining webcomics and digital comics. After that, the guys jump into the core of this month's episode with a look at Dean Haspiel's The Red Hook. They discuss, among other things, the fact that superhero comics are relatively rare in webcomics and that this title is reminiscent of what Haspiel did with The Fox, for Archie Comics, and with his own comics centered on Billy Dogma and Jane Legit. Sean and Derek also spend a bit of time talking about Webtoons, the platform where you'll find The Red Hook. Next, they review Kill 6 Billion Demons. Both of the guys are impressed by Tom Parkinson-Morgan's art and the intricacies involved in his world-building, but they are somewhat critical of the webcomic's design and usability. It's not easy to navigate that site, which is surprising, given the fact that Kill 6 Billion Demons has been around since 2013. Before they turn to the final webcomic of the month, Derek and Sean introduce what they hope will be a new feature of the monthly series. Beginning with this episode, they will talk briefly with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz about a new webcomics they're creating, Poe and the Mysteriads. Every month they hope to check in with the creators about the step-by-step process they're going through in developing the title, from story concept to art choices to the design of the website. Finally, Sean and Derek look at Evan Dahm's already completed webcomic, Rice Boy. This is the second time Dahm's work has been a focus of the webcomics series, the first occasion being a discussion of Vattu back in January 2015. This is a much earlier webcomic, and the guys discuss the evolution of Dahm's art and storytelling style as the story develops. It's an intriguing fantastical quest narrative, and if you're not already familiar with Dahm, then this would be a great way to get to know his work.    

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:27 - Introduction
  • 00:07:03 - Brief comments on the 2016 Ignatz Award nominees for Outstanding Online Comic
  • 00:18:07 - The Red Hook
  • 00:57:28 - Kill 6 Billion Demons
  • 01:21:11 - Interview with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz
  • 01:41:15 - Rice Boy
  • 02:13:55 - Wrap up
  • 02:15:30 - Contact us

On this extra-long episode of The Comics Alternative Webcomics, Sean and Derek cover a lot of territory on the webcomics front. They begin with a few brief comments on this year's Ignatz Award nominees for Outstanding Online Comic. They also contrast the way that the Ignatz judges classify webcomics with what the Eisner Awards has been doing lately, combining webcomics and digital comics.

After that, the guys jump into the core of this month's episode with a look at Dean Haspiel's The Red Hook. They discuss, among other things, the fact that superhero comics are relatively rare in webcomics and that this title is reminiscent of what Haspiel did with The Fox, for Archie Comics, and with his own comics centered on Billy Dogma and Jane Legit. Sean and Derek also spend a bit of time talking about Webtoons, the platform where you'll find The Red Hook.

Next, they review Kill 6 Billion Demons. Both of the guys are impressed by Tom Parkinson-Morgan's art and the intricacies involved in his world-building, but they are somewhat critical of the webcomic's design and usability. It's not easy to navigate that site, which is surprising, given the fact that Kill 6 Billion Demons has been around since 2013.

Before they turn to the final webcomic of the month, Derek and Sean introduce what they hope will be a new feature of the monthly series. Beginning with this episode, they will talk briefly with Jim McClain and Paul Schultz about a new webcomics they're creating, Poe and the Mysteriads. Every month they hope to check in with the creators about the step-by-step process they're going through in developing the title, from story concept to art choices to the design of the website.

Finally, Sean and Derek look at Evan Dahm's already completed webcomic, Rice Boy. This is the second time Dahm's work has been a focus of the webcomics series, the first occasion being a discussion of Vattu back in January 2015. This is a much earlier webcomic, and the guys discuss the evolution of Dahm's art and storytelling style as the story develops. It's an intriguing fantastical quest narrative, and if you're not already familiar with Dahm, then this would be a great way to get to know his work.

 

 

]]> 8337 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Peter Hogan http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-peter-hogan Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:03:38 - Interview with Peter Hogan 00:45:36 - Wrap up 00:46:10 - Contact us Peter Hogan is the guest on this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews. His new miniseries in the Resident Alien line, The Man with No Name, begins next week with the release of issue #1. Derek talks with Peter about this ongoing Dark Horse series and what we can expect in this new narrative arc. They also spend a good deal of time discussing the genesis of Resident Alien, possible inspirations for the title, its episodic publishing model, and the working relationship between Peter and the artist of the series, Steve Parkhouse. Derek asks Peter about the stand-alone nature of each storyline, and how, at the same time, he's able to weave a larger ongoing narrative that binds everything together and develops incrementally with each issue. In this way, and to use American television comparisons, Resident Alien reads like episodes of Cannon or Quincy (which involves another medical professional), with a larger unfolding saga akin to The Fugitive...and, of course, a good bit of My Favorite Martian thrown in for that extraterrestrial touch. And, without giving anything away, Peter also hints about the direction of The Man with No Name and what we might see over the next two narrative arcs. Fri, 09 Sep 2016 14:53:06 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mysterious Other Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:28 - Setup of interview 00:03:38 - Interview with Peter Hogan 00:45:36 - Wrap up 00:46:10 - Contact us Peter Hogan is the guest on this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews. His new miniseries in the Resident Alien line, The Man with No Name, begins next week with the release of issue #1. Derek talks with Peter about this ongoing Dark Horse series and what we can expect in this new narrative arc. They also spend a good deal of time discussing the genesis of Resident Alien, possible inspirations for the title, its episodic publishing model, and the working relationship between Peter and the artist of the series, Steve Parkhouse. Derek asks Peter about the stand-alone nature of each storyline, and how, at the same time, he's able to weave a larger ongoing narrative that binds everything together and develops incrementally with each issue. In this way, and to use American television comparisons, Resident Alien reads like episodes of Cannon or Quincy (which involves another medical professional), with a larger unfolding saga akin to The Fugitive...and, of course, a good bit of My Favorite Martian thrown in for that extraterrestrial touch. And, without giving anything away, Peter also hints about the direction of The Man with No Name and what we might see over the next two narrative arcs.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:28 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:38 - Interview with Peter Hogan
  • 00:45:36 - Wrap up
  • 00:46:10 - Contact us

Peter Hogan is the guest on this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews. His new miniseries in the Resident Alien line, The Man with No Name, begins next week with the release of issue #1. Derek talks with Peter about this ongoing Dark Horse series and what we can expect in this new narrative arc. They also spend a good deal of time discussing the genesis of Resident Alien, possible inspirations for the title, its episodic publishing model, and the working relationship between Peter and the artist of the series, Steve Parkhouse. Derek asks Peter about the stand-alone nature of each storyline, and how, at the same time, he's able to weave a larger ongoing narrative that binds everything together and develops incrementally with each issue. In this way, and to use American television comparisons, Resident Alien reads like episodes of Cannon or Quincy (which involves another medical professional), with a larger unfolding saga akin to The Fugitive...and, of course, a good bit of My Favorite Martian thrown in for that extraterrestrial touch. And, without giving anything away, Peter also hints about the direction of The Man with No Name and what we might see over the next two narrative arcs.

]]> 2950 no Episode 204: The September Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-204-the-september-previews-catalog It's the beginning of September, the first of the month, so that must mean it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics to look at the latest Previews catalog. As they do every month, Andy and Derek carefully go through the the Diamond publication, highlighting upcoming titles they're interested in, commenting on solicitations that sound interesting, and discussing creators they look forward to reading. Among the many comics they mention on this episode are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Ether #1 and Dept. H Volume 1: Pressure DC/Vertigo - Mother Panic #1 and Jack of Fables: Deluxe Edition Book One IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Comic Book History of Comics #1, Tonoharu: Part Three, The Theory of the Grain of Sand, and Weird Love: Jailbird Romance Image Comics - A.D.: After Death, Book One, Frontier #1, Violent Love #1, Chew #60, and One Week in the Library Abstract Studio - Motor Girl #1 Action Lab - Athena Voltaire and the Volcano Goddess #1 Alternative Comics - Compulsive Comics and King-Cat Comix and Stories #76 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Summerland Bergen Street Press - Copra: Round Four BOOM! Studios - Namesake #1, Slam! #1, and Baker Street Peculiars Conundrum Press - Lake Jehovah and The Palace of Champions Drawn & Quarterly - Seth's Dominion Dynamite Entertainment - Grand Passion #1 Faber and Faber - Love in Vain: Robert Johnson 1911-1938 Fantagraphics Books - Turn Loose Our Death Rays and Kill Them All: The Complete Works of Fletcher Hanks, Blubber #4, Beyond Time and Again, and Laid Waste First Second - Last Man, Vol. 9: The Rescue Hermes Press - Dark Shadows: The Best of the Original Series Jet City Comics - Cirque American, Vol. 1: Girl over Paris Last Gasp - Cometbus #57 New York Review Comics - Pretending Is Lying Oni Press - Motro #1 SelfMadeHero - The Can Opener's Daughter Super Genius - Trish Trash: Rollergirl from Mars Titan Comics - The Mummy #1 Valiant Entertainment - Faith #5 VIZ Media - Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, Vol. 1, and Sunny, Vol. 6 Wed, 07 Sep 2016 12:26:46 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Roller Derby and Crime Love It's the beginning of September, the first of the month, so that must mean it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics to look at the latest Previews catalog. As they do every month, Andy and Derek carefully go through the the Diamond publication, highlighting upcoming titles they're interested in, commenting on solicitations that sound interesting, and discussing creators they look forward to reading. Among the many comics they mention on this episode are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Ether #1 and Dept. H Volume 1: Pressure DC/Vertigo - Mother Panic #1 and Jack of Fables: Deluxe Edition Book One IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Comic Book History of Comics #1, Tonoharu: Part Three, The Theory of the Grain of Sand, and Weird Love: Jailbird Romance Image Comics - A.D.: After Death, Book One, Frontier #1, Violent Love #1, Chew #60, and One Week in the Library Abstract Studio - Motor Girl #1 Action Lab - Athena Voltaire and the Volcano Goddess #1 Alternative Comics - Compulsive Comics and King-Cat Comix and Stories #76 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Summerland Bergen Street Press - Copra: Round Four BOOM! Studios - Namesake #1, Slam! #1, and Baker Street Peculiars Conundrum Press - Lake Jehovah and The Palace of Champions Drawn & Quarterly - Seth's Dominion Dynamite Entertainment - Grand Passion #1 Faber and Faber - Love in Vain: Robert Johnson 1911-1938 Fantagraphics Books - Turn Loose Our Death Rays and Kill Them All: The Complete Works of Fletcher Hanks, Blubber #4, Beyond Time and Again, and Laid Waste First Second - Last Man, Vol. 9: The Rescue Hermes Press - Dark Shadows: The Best of the Original Series Jet City Comics - Cirque American, Vol. 1: Girl over Paris Last Gasp - Cometbus #57 New York Review Comics - Pretending Is Lying Oni Press - Motro #1 SelfMadeHero - The Can Opener's Daughter Super Genius - Trish Trash: Rollergirl from Mars Titan Comics - The Mummy #1 Valiant Entertainment - Faith #5 VIZ Media - Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, Vol. 1, and Sunny, Vol. 6

It's the beginning of September, the first of the month, so that must mean it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics to look at the latest Previews catalog. As they do every month, Andy and Derek carefully go through the the Diamond publication, highlighting upcoming titles they're interested in, commenting on solicitations that sound interesting, and discussing creators they look forward to reading. Among the many comics they mention on this episode are from publishers such as

]]> 6116 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Dash Shaw http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-dash-shaw Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:13 - Setup of interview 00:03:30 - Interview with Dash Shaw 01:02:39 - Wrap up 01:03:52 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Dash Shaw about his latest book, Cosplayers (Fantagraphics). This "Perfect Collection," as it is called, brings together the Cosplayers stories that were previously released in the two earlier comic-book issues from April and July 2014, as well as the story that appeared in the 2015 Free Comic Book Day release of Hip Hop Family Tree Three-in-One. (The guys reviewed Cosplayers #1 in Episode 83.) However, as Dash points out, this isn't a mere repackaging of his earlier Cosplayers comics. The book not only includes brand new material, but it also reworks some of the visuals from the original stories. A telling example of this can be found in some of the book's collage art, where Dash takes the covers and some of the interior pages from the earlier comics, cuts them up, and re-presents them in collage form...much like his protagonists, Annie and Verti, do with their comic books in the story "Escape from Nostalgia World." Image from A Cosplayers Christmas Derek talks with Dash about his curious stylistic choices for this new work, as well as his experimental use of colors in earlier books such as Doctors and New School. But they also discuss some of Dash's other projects, such as his work in animation. His feature-length directorial debut, My Entire High School is Sinking Into the Sea, a film based on an earlier short story, will be premiering at next week's Toronto International Film Festival. Also, Dash reveals that he may not yet be done with Cosplayers, referencing the new story appearing in the summer 2016 issue of Smoke Signal and the upcoming one-shot A Cosplayers Christmas. All in all, this is a fascinating interview, and one that underscores why Dash is one of the few artists the Two Guys have featured in a Creator Spotlight episode. See what's up with Dash on his Tumblr site! Tue, 06 Sep 2016 14:01:56 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Destroyed…and Reborn Time Codes: 00:00:24 - Introduction 00:02:13 - Setup of interview 00:03:30 - Interview with Dash Shaw 01:02:39 - Wrap up 01:03:52 - Contact us On this interview episode, Derek talks with Dash Shaw about his latest book, Cosplayers (Fantagraphics). This "Perfect Collection," as it is called, brings together the Cosplayers stories that were previously released in the two earlier comic-book issues from April and July 2014, as well as the story that appeared in the 2015 Free Comic Book Day release of Hip Hop Family Tree Three-in-One. (The guys reviewed Cosplayers #1 in Episode 83.) However, as Dash points out, this isn't a mere repackaging of his earlier Cosplayers comics. The book not only includes brand new material, but it also reworks some of the visuals from the original stories. A telling example of this can be found in some of the book's collage art, where Dash takes the covers and some of the interior pages from the earlier comics, cuts them up, and re-presents them in collage form...much like his protagonists, Annie and Verti, do with their comic books in the story "Escape from Nostalgia World." Image from A Cosplayers Christmas Derek talks with Dash about his curious stylistic choices for this new work, as well as his experimental use of colors in earlier books such as Doctors and New School. But they also discuss some of Dash's other projects, such as his work in animation. His feature-length directorial debut, My Entire High School is Sinking Into the Sea, a film based on an earlier short story, will be premiering at next week's Toronto International Film Festival. Also, Dash reveals that he may not yet be done with Cosplayers, referencing the new story appearing in the summer 2016 issue of Smoke Signal and the upcoming one-shot A Cosplayers Christmas. All in all, this is a fascinating interview, and one that underscores why Dash is one of the few artists the Two Guys have featured in a Creator Spotlight episode. See what's up with Dash on his Tumblr site!

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:24 - Introduction
  • 00:02:13 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:30 - Interview with Dash Shaw
  • 01:02:39 - Wrap up
  • 01:03:52 - Contact us

On this interview episode, Derek talks with Dash Shaw about his latest book, Cosplayers (Fantagraphics). This "Perfect Collection," as it is called, brings together the Cosplayers stories that were previously released in the two earlier comic-book issues from April and July 2014, as well as the story that appeared in the 2015 Free Comic Book Day release of Hip Hop Family Tree Three-in-One. (The guys reviewed Cosplayers #1 in Episode 83.) However, as Dash points out, this isn't a mere repackaging of his earlier Cosplayers comics. The book not only includes brand new material, but it also reworks some of the visuals from the original stories. A telling example of this can be found in some of the book's collage art, where Dash takes the covers and some of the interior pages from the earlier comics, cuts them up, and re-presents them in collage form...much like his protagonists, Annie and Verti, do with their comic books in the story "Escape from Nostalgia World."

Image from A Cosplayers Christmas

Derek talks with Dash about his curious stylistic choices for this new work, as well as his experimental use of colors in earlier books such as Doctors and New School. But they also discuss some of Dash's other projects, such as his work in animation. His feature-length directorial debut, My Entire High School is Sinking Into the Sea, a film based on an earlier short story, will be premiering at next week's Toronto International Film Festival. Also, Dash reveals that he may not yet be done with Cosplayers, referencing the new story appearing in the summer 2016 issue of Smoke Signal and the upcoming one-shot A Cosplayers Christmas. All in all, this is a fascinating interview, and one that underscores why Dash is one of the few artists the Two Guys have featured in a Creator Spotlight episode.

See what's up with Dash on his Tumblr site!

]]> 4017 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Spanish Fever, The Longest Day of the Future, and Growing Up in Public http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-spanish-fever-the-longest-day-of-the-future-and-growing-up-in-public Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:45 - Setup of reviews 00:04:37 - Spanish Fever 00:46:27 - The Longest Day of the Future 01:00:45 - Growing Up in Public 01:28:04 - Wrap up 01:29:12 - Contact us This month on the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss three works translated from Spanish, and all published by Fantagraphics. They begin with the anthology Spanish Fever: Stories by the New Spanish Cartoonists, edited by Santiago García. This is a collection of contemporary comics coming out of Spain, bringing together works by over thirty creators including Paco Roca, Max, Miguel Gallardo, David Rubín and Miguel Ángel Martín, as well as newcomers such as José Domingo, Anna Galvañ, Álvaro Ortiz and Sergi Puyol. As the guys point out, the styles, genres, and themes are diverse, making this not only a valuable introduction to new Spanish artists, but a well-rounded comics collection by any standard. Next, the Two Guys turn to two creators from Argentina. The first is Lucas Varela and his The Longest Day of the Future. This is a mostly wordless narrative satirizing hegemonic corporate culture. There's an almost cinematic quality to Varela's storytelling, and Derek and Edward liken it to a Pixar film infused with a darker Cohen brothers' sensibility. Finally, the two wrap up with Ezequiel Garcia's Growing Up in Public. His is a memoir, but one that wanders loosely without any discernible endpoint...and with a curious injection of Moby-Dick thrown in, to boot. Indeed, both Edward and Derek appreciate Garcia's different take on graphic autobiography, and they look forward to more from this Argentine artist. Mon, 05 Sep 2016 14:12:10 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Spanish Voices Time Codes: 00:00:28 - Introduction 00:02:45 - Setup of reviews 00:04:37 - Spanish Fever 00:46:27 - The Longest Day of the Future 01:00:45 - Growing Up in Public 01:28:04 - Wrap up 01:29:12 - Contact us This month on the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss three works translated from Spanish, and all published by Fantagraphics. They begin with the anthology Spanish Fever: Stories by the New Spanish Cartoonists, edited by Santiago García. This is a collection of contemporary comics coming out of Spain, bringing together works by over thirty creators including Paco Roca, Max, Miguel Gallardo, David Rubín and Miguel Ángel Martín, as well as newcomers such as José Domingo, Anna Galvañ, Álvaro Ortiz and Sergi Puyol. As the guys point out, the styles, genres, and themes are diverse, making this not only a valuable introduction to new Spanish artists, but a well-rounded comics collection by any standard. Next, the Two Guys turn to two creators from Argentina. The first is Lucas Varela and his The Longest Day of the Future. This is a mostly wordless narrative satirizing hegemonic corporate culture. There's an almost cinematic quality to Varela's storytelling, and Derek and Edward liken it to a Pixar film infused with a darker Cohen brothers' sensibility. Finally, the two wrap up with Ezequiel Garcia's Growing Up in Public. His is a memoir, but one that wanders loosely without any discernible endpoint...and with a curious injection of Moby-Dick thrown in, to boot. Indeed, both Edward and Derek appreciate Garcia's different take on graphic autobiography, and they look forward to more from this Argentine artist.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:28 - Introduction
  • 00:02:45 - Setup of reviews
  • 00:04:37 - Spanish Fever
  • 00:46:27 - The Longest Day of the Future
  • 01:00:45 - Growing Up in Public
  • 01:28:04 - Wrap up
  • 01:29:12 - Contact us

This month on the Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss three works translated from Spanish, and all published by Fantagraphics. They begin with the anthology Spanish Fever: Stories by the New Spanish Cartoonists, edited by Santiago García. This is a collection of contemporary comics coming out of Spain, bringing together works by over thirty creators including Paco Roca, Max, Miguel Gallardo, David Rubín and Miguel Ángel Martín, as well as newcomers such as José Domingo, Anna Galvañ, Álvaro Ortiz and Sergi Puyol. As the guys point out, the styles, genres, and themes are diverse, making this not only a valuable introduction to new Spanish artists, but a well-rounded comics collection by any standard.

Next, the Two Guys turn to two creators from Argentina. The first is Lucas Varela and his The Longest Day of the Future. This is a mostly wordless narrative satirizing hegemonic corporate culture. There's an almost cinematic quality to Varela's storytelling, and Derek and Edward liken it to a Pixar film infused with a darker Cohen brothers' sensibility.

Finally, the two wrap up with Ezequiel Garcia's Growing Up in Public. His is a memoir, but one that wanders loosely without any discernible endpoint...and with a curious injection of Moby-Dick thrown in, to boot. Indeed, both Edward and Derek appreciate Garcia's different take on graphic autobiography, and they look forward to more from this Argentine artist.

]]> 5533 no Comics Alternative Interviews: 2dcloud Creators Gina Wynbrandt, Will Dinski, and MariNaomi http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-2dcloud-creators-gina-wynbrandt-will-dinski-and-marinaomi Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Setup of interview 00:03:55 - Interview with Gina Wynbrandt 00:27:16 - Interview with Will Dinski 01:03:48 - Interview with MariNaomi 01:39:32 - Wrap up 01:40:41 - Contact us The Two Guys have discussed 2dcloud comics in past -- see their review of Austin English’s Gulag Casual as well as the coverage of last year's Ignatz Awards -- but on this episode, they take a deep dive into the publisher's recent releases. They do this by interviewing three of the creators who have had, or will have, new books coming out from 2dcloud: Gina Wynbrandt, Will Dinksi, and MariNaomi. The guys talk with all three about their recent publications -- Someone Please Have Sex with Me, Trying Not to Notice, and Turning Japanese -- but they also use the opportunity to delve into each artist's broader career. For example, Andy and Derek talk with Gina about her history with, and preference for, fan-inspired minicomics. In their conversation with Will, they ask about his 2dcloud comics as well as the Top Shelf book Finger Prints and his self-published projects.  And with Mari, they discuss her series of autobiographical efforts beginning with Kiss and Tell: A Romantic Resume Ages 0 to 22 and leading all the way to her upcoming I Thought You Hated Me. Powerpaola, yet another 2dcloud author, couldn't join the guys this time around, but readers should definitely check out her new book, Virus Tropical. Fri, 02 Sep 2016 11:53:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Something Different Time Codes: 00:00:29 - Introduction 00:02:10 - Setup of interview 00:03:55 - Interview with Gina Wynbrandt 00:27:16 - Interview with Will Dinski 01:03:48 - Interview with MariNaomi 01:39:32 - Wrap up 01:40:41 - Contact us The Two Guys have discussed 2dcloud comics in past -- see their review of Austin English’s Gulag Casual as well as the coverage of last year's Ignatz Awards -- but on this episode, they take a deep dive into the publisher's recent releases. They do this by interviewing three of the creators who have had, or will have, new books coming out from 2dcloud: Gina Wynbrandt, Will Dinksi, and MariNaomi. The guys talk with all three about their recent publications -- Someone Please Have Sex with Me, Trying Not to Notice, and Turning Japanese -- but they also use the opportunity to delve into each artist's broader career. For example, Andy and Derek talk with Gina about her history with, and preference for, fan-inspired minicomics. In their conversation with Will, they ask about his 2dcloud comics as well as the Top Shelf book Finger Prints and his self-published projects.  And with Mari, they discuss her series of autobiographical efforts beginning with Kiss and Tell: A Romantic Resume Ages 0 to 22 and leading all the way to her upcoming I Thought You Hated Me. Powerpaola, yet another 2dcloud author, couldn't join the guys this time around, but readers should definitely check out her new book, Virus Tropical.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:29 - Introduction
  • 00:02:10 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:55 - Interview with Gina Wynbrandt
  • 00:27:16 - Interview with Will Dinski
  • 01:03:48 - Interview with MariNaomi
  • 01:39:32 - Wrap up
  • 01:40:41 - Contact us

The Two Guys have discussed 2dcloud comics in past -- see their review of Austin English’s Gulag Casual as well as the coverage of last year's Ignatz Awards -- but on this episode, they take a deep dive into the publisher's recent releases. They do this by interviewing three of the creators who have had, or will have, new books coming out from 2dcloud: Gina Wynbrandt, Will Dinksi, and MariNaomi. The guys talk with all three about their recent publications -- Someone Please Have Sex with Me, Trying Not to Notice, and Turning Japanese -- but they also use the opportunity to delve into each artist's broader career. For example, Andy and Derek talk with Gina about her history with, and preference for, fan-inspired minicomics. In their conversation with Will, they ask about his 2dcloud comics as well as the Top Shelf book Finger Prints and his self-published projects.  And with Mari, they discuss her series of autobiographical efforts beginning with Kiss and Tell: A Romantic Resume Ages 0 to 22 and leading all the way to her upcoming I Thought You Hated Me. Powerpaola, yet another 2dcloud author, couldn't join the guys this time around, but readers should definitely check out her new book, Virus Tropical.

]]> 6229 yes Episode 203: Reviews of The Black Monday Murders #1, Kingsway West #1, Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth #1, and Superf*ckers Forever #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-203-reviews-of-the-black-monday-murders-1-kingsway-west-1-jeff-steinberg-champion-of-earth-1-and-superfckers-forever-1 Time Codes: 00:00:35 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Setup of reviews 00:03:07 - Listener mail 00:06:13 - The Black Monday Murders #1 00:27:30 - Kingsway West #1 00:39:49 - Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth #1 00:54:04 - Superf*ckers Forever #1 01:06:47 - Wrap up 01:07:56 - Contact us 01:09:47 - "Superf*ckers Theme Song" This week the Two Guys decide to mix up their routine a bit and review nothing but recent #1 issues. They begin with Jonathan Hickman and Tomm Coker's The Black Monday Murders (Image Comics), a unique take on the crime genre. In this extra-long first issue, Hickman unpacks his premise via design, prose, and visuals, creating a dense narrative world filled with conspiratorial intrigue and anchored in history. Next, Andy and Derek discuss an even more genre-bending comic, Kingsway West (Dark Horse Comics). Written by Greg Pak and with art by Mirko Colak, the story combines fantasy with the mid-nineteenth-century American West, while at the same time hovering in the territory of alternate history. Things get more comedic when the guys turn to Joshua Hale Fialkov and Tony Fleecs's Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth (Oni Press). The eponymous hero is a textbook loser who, through an infamous bout of constipation, is chosen by alien forces to determine the future of Earth. Also, President Obama high fives his Joint Chiefs! The guys end on a much more explicit note with their last #1 issue, James Kochalka's Superf*ckers Forever, published by IDW. (And to make their discussion easier, Andy and Derek don't shy away from using language that may offend more delicate ears.) This is Kochalka's return to his whacked-out superhero series, complete with Superdan, Ultra Richard, Grotessa, and Wonder Kyle. And yes, Jack Krak is still the motherf*cker. Wed, 31 Aug 2016 12:14:43 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Genre Smorgasbord Time Codes: 00:00:35 - Introduction 00:02:39 - Setup of reviews 00:03:07 - Listener mail 00:06:13 - The Black Monday Murders #1 00:27:30 - Kingsway West #1 00:39:49 - Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth #1 00:54:04 - Superf*ckers Forever #1 01:06:47 - Wrap up 01:07:56 - Contact us 01:09:47 - "Superf*ckers Theme Song" This week the Two Guys decide to mix up their routine a bit and review nothing but recent #1 issues. They begin with Jonathan Hickman and Tomm Coker's The Black Monday Murders (Image Comics), a unique take on the crime genre. In this extra-long first issue, Hickman unpacks his premise via design, prose, and visuals, creating a dense narrative world filled with conspiratorial intrigue and anchored in history. Next, Andy and Derek discuss an even more genre-bending comic, Kingsway West (Dark Horse Comics). Written by Greg Pak and with art by Mirko Colak, the story combines fantasy with the mid-nineteenth-century American West, while at the same time hovering in the territory of alternate history. Things get more comedic when the guys turn to Joshua Hale Fialkov and Tony Fleecs's Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth (Oni Press). The eponymous hero is a textbook loser who, through an infamous bout of constipation, is chosen by alien forces to determine the future of Earth. Also, President Obama high fives his Joint Chiefs! The guys end on a much more explicit note with their last #1 issue, James Kochalka's Superf*ckers Forever, published by IDW. (And to make their discussion easier, Andy and Derek don't shy away from using language that may offend more delicate ears.) This is Kochalka's return to his whacked-out superhero series, complete with Superdan, Ultra Richard, Grotessa, and Wonder Kyle. And yes, Jack Krak is still the motherf*cker.

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:35 - Introduction
  • 00:02:39 - Setup of reviews
  • 00:03:07 - Listener mail
  • 00:06:13 - The Black Monday Murders #1
  • 00:27:30 - Kingsway West #1
  • 00:39:49 - Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth #1
  • 00:54:04 - Superf*ckers Forever #1
  • 01:06:47 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:56 - Contact us
  • 01:09:47 - "Superf*ckers Theme Song"

This week the Two Guys decide to mix up their routine a bit and review nothing but recent #1 issues. They begin with Jonathan Hickman and Tomm Coker's The Black Monday Murders (Image Comics), a unique take on the crime genre. In this extra-long first issue, Hickman unpacks his premise via design, prose, and visuals, creating a dense narrative world filled with conspiratorial intrigue and anchored in history.

Next, Andy and Derek discuss an even more genre-bending comic, Kingsway West (Dark Horse Comics). Written by Greg Pak and with art by Mirko Colak, the story combines fantasy with the mid-nineteenth-century American West, while at the same time hovering in the territory of alternate history.

Things get more comedic when the guys turn to Joshua Hale Fialkov and Tony Fleecs's Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth (Oni Press). The eponymous hero is a textbook loser who, through an infamous bout of constipation, is chosen by alien forces to determine the future of Earth. Also, President Obama high fives his Joint Chiefs!

The guys end on a much more explicit note with their last #1 issue, James Kochalka's Superf*ckers Forever, published by IDW. (And to make their discussion easier, Andy and Derek don't shy away from using language that may offend more delicate ears.) This is Kochalka's return to his whacked-out superhero series, complete with Superdan, Ultra Richard, Grotessa, and Wonder Kyle. And yes, Jack Krak is still the motherf*cker.

]]> 4309 yes Manga: Reviews of Inuyashiki and Wandering Island http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-inuyashiki-and-wandering-island For the August manga episode, Shea and Derek go topless...at least that's a common condition that they sense in the two titles that they discuss this month. They begin with Hiroya Oku's Inuyashiki, the fourth English-language volume of which was released in June by Kodansha Comics. It's the story of an older Sad Sack of a salaryman, Ichiro Inuyashiki, whose slowly crumbling life is turned around after contact with an alien life form. As a result of this encounter, his body is replaced with a weapon-grade robotic shell, and over the course the first four volumes, Inuyashiki learns to use his new condition to positively change the lives of others. However, complications arise when another man similarly changed by the same alien encounter decides to use his powers for more nihilist purposes. Shea and Derek spend much time discussing Oku's art -- a clean yet static style -- the borderline melodrama of the storytelling, and the fact that Inuyashiki goes around without a shirt much of the time. After that, the guys turn to their second title of the month, Kenji Tsuruta's Wandering Island (Dark Horse Manga). This is a quest narrative centered on the discovery of a mythical island in the Pacific that is free floating. The protagonist of this series, Mikura Amelia, owns a small delivery service and pilots a bi-floatplane along the Izu Islands. When she discovers the writings of her dead grandfather about the elusive Electric Island, Mikura sets off with her cat Endeavor to prove its existence. The guys appreciate the protagonist as a fully formed, complex adventuring character, but they disagree slightly about the ways in which Tsuruta represents her. Shea feels that the frequently bikinied Mikura is too often posed specifically for the male gaze, and while Derek agrees with his cohost, to a point, he's not entirely convinced that Mikura is sexualized for that purpose. Regardless, Wandering Island rests upon a fascinating premise that will have both of the guys coming back to the title for volume two...whenever that publication might be. Mon, 29 Aug 2016 13:57:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shirtless For the August manga episode, Shea and Derek go topless...at least that's a common condition that they sense in the two titles that they discuss this month. They begin with Hiroya Oku's Inuyashiki, the fourth English-language volume of which was released in June by Kodansha Comics. It's the story of an older Sad Sack of a salaryman, Ichiro Inuyashiki, whose slowly crumbling life is turned around after contact with an alien life form. As a result of this encounter, his body is replaced with a weapon-grade robotic shell, and over the course the first four volumes, Inuyashiki learns to use his new condition to positively change the lives of others. However, complications arise when another man similarly changed by the same alien encounter decides to use his powers for more nihilist purposes. Shea and Derek spend much time discussing Oku's art -- a clean yet static style -- the borderline melodrama of the storytelling, and the fact that Inuyashiki goes around without a shirt much of the time. After that, the guys turn to their second title of the month, Kenji Tsuruta's Wandering Island (Dark Horse Manga). This is a quest narrative centered on the discovery of a mythical island in the Pacific that is free floating. The protagonist of this series, Mikura Amelia, owns a small delivery service and pilots a bi-floatplane along the Izu Islands. When she discovers the writings of her dead grandfather about the elusive Electric Island, Mikura sets off with her cat Endeavor to prove its existence. The guys appreciate the protagonist as a fully formed, complex adventuring character, but they disagree slightly about the ways in which Tsuruta represents her. Shea feels that the frequently bikinied Mikura is too often posed specifically for the male gaze, and while Derek agrees with his cohost, to a point, he's not entirely convinced that Mikura is sexualized for that purpose. Regardless, Wandering Island rests upon a fascinating premise that will have both of the guys coming back to the title for volume two...whenever that publication might be. For the August manga episode, Shea and Derek go topless...at least that's a common condition that they sense in the two titles that they discuss this month. They begin with Hiroya Oku's Inuyashiki, the fourth English-language volume of which was released in June by Kodansha Comics. It's the story of an older Sad Sack of a salaryman, Ichiro Inuyashiki, whose slowly crumbling life is turned around after contact with an alien life form. As a result of this encounter, his body is replaced with a weapon-grade robotic shell, and over the course the first four volumes, Inuyashiki learns to use his new condition to positively change the lives of others. However, complications arise when another man similarly changed by the same alien encounter decides to use his powers for more nihilist purposes. Shea and Derek spend much time discussing Oku's art -- a clean yet static style -- the borderline melodrama of the storytelling, and the fact that Inuyashiki goes around without a shirt much of the time.

After that, the guys turn to their second title of the month, Kenji Tsuruta's Wandering Island (Dark Horse Manga). This is a quest narrative centered on the discovery of a mythical island in the Pacific that is free floating. The protagonist of this series, Mikura Amelia, owns a small delivery service and pilots a bi-floatplane along the Izu Islands. When she discovers the writings of her dead grandfather about the elusive Electric Island, Mikura sets off with her cat Endeavor to prove its existence. The guys appreciate the protagonist as a fully formed, complex adventuring character, but they disagree slightly about the ways in which Tsuruta represents her. Shea feels that the frequently bikinied Mikura is too often posed specifically for the male gaze, and while Derek agrees with his cohost, to a point, he's not entirely convinced that Mikura is sexualized for that purpose. Regardless, Wandering Island rests upon a fascinating premise that will have both of the guys coming back to the title for volume two...whenever that publication might be.

]]> 5185 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Nate Powell and Andrew Aydin http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-nate-powell-and-andrew-aydin Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Nate Powell 01:10:11 - Interview with Andrew Aydin 02:12:26 - Wrap up 02:13:57 - Contact us On this interview show, Andy and Derek do something different. They talk with both Nate Powell and Andrew Aydin, the artist and coauthor of the recently completed March trilogy (Top Shelf Productions), but instead of interviewing both creators together, the guys talk with them separately and then combine the two recordings into one long episode. So in this show, over two hours and fifteen minutes long, you'll hear about the genesis and the creative turns that went into the March books from both the artist's and the writer's perspectives. Nate and Andrew also discuss their time working with Congressman John Lewis, his wealth of experiences from the Civil Rights Movement, and the creative choices that each of them had to make when representing those events. For example, Nate explains the challenges that faced him when illustrating the unspeakable violence, and Andrew describes his strategies for scripting the chronology of the congressman's young life. Both guests also share a few words about current projects they have underway and what we can expect from them post-March.   Fri, 26 Aug 2016 14:25:11 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Pen and Government Man Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:42 - Setup of interview 00:03:56 - Interview with Nate Powell 01:10:11 - Interview with Andrew Aydin 02:12:26 - Wrap up 02:13:57 - Contact us On this interview show, Andy and Derek do something different. They talk with both Nate Powell and Andrew Aydin, the artist and coauthor of the recently completed March trilogy (Top Shelf Productions), but instead of interviewing both creators together, the guys talk with them separately and then combine the two recordings into one long episode. So in this show, over two hours and fifteen minutes long, you'll hear about the genesis and the creative turns that went into the March books from both the artist's and the writer's perspectives. Nate and Andrew also discuss their time working with Congressman John Lewis, his wealth of experiences from the Civil Rights Movement, and the creative choices that each of them had to make when representing those events. For example, Nate explains the challenges that faced him when illustrating the unspeakable violence, and Andrew describes his strategies for scripting the chronology of the congressman's young life. Both guests also share a few words about current projects they have underway and what we can expect from them post-March.  

Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:42 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:56 - Interview with Nate Powell
  • 01:10:11 - Interview with Andrew Aydin
  • 02:12:26 - Wrap up
  • 02:13:57 - Contact us

On this interview show, Andy and Derek do something different. They talk with both Nate Powell and Andrew Aydin, the artist and coauthor of the recently completed March trilogy (Top Shelf Productions), but instead of interviewing both creators together, the guys talk with them separately and then combine the two recordings into one long episode. So in this show, over two hours and fifteen minutes long, you'll hear about the genesis and the creative turns that went into the March books from both the artist's and the writer's perspectives. Nate and Andrew also discuss their time working with Congressman John Lewis, his wealth of experiences from the Civil Rights Movement, and the creative choices that each of them had to make when representing those events. For example, Nate explains the challenges that faced him when illustrating the unspeakable violence, and Andrew describes his strategies for scripting the chronology of the congressman's young life. Both guests also share a few words about current projects they have underway and what we can expect from them post-March.

 

]]> 8215 no Episode 202: Reviews of Smoke Signal #25, Fool's Gold, and Briggs Land #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-202-reviews-of-smoke-signal-25-fools-gold-and-briggs-land-1 Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Listener mail 00:11:07 - Smoke Signal #25 00:33:54 - Fool's Gold 00:44:49 - Briggs Land #1 01:00:28 - Wrap up 01:01:26 - Contact us On this week's review episode, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three recent titles, a couple of which are probably not on most listeners' radar. They begin with one of these, the latest issue of Smoke Signal, a quarterly tabloid comics anthology published by Desert Island Comics (a shop in Brooklyn, NY) and edited by Gabe Fowler. Andy and Derek focus mainly on the summer 2016 issue, #25, although they also mention several comics in the previous spring issue. Some of the standouts in the latest include Tim Lane's contributions -- the Steve McQueen-inspired "Barnstormer" and the tabloid's center spread, "The Assassination of Billy Lyons by that Bad Man Stagger Lee" -- a new "Cosplayers" story from Dash Shaw, another in Al Columbia's "Pim and Francie" series, Siobhan Gallagher's experimental "Apartment to Be," the portfolio of Jay Rummel art, and a cover by the great Will Elder, a painting that was intended for the third issue of Harvey Kurtzman's Trump (the magazine was canceled after the second issue). Next, the guys turn to Andy Warner's self-published Fool's Gold: The True Story of the Greates Lost Treasure in American History and the Man Who Had the Bad Luck to Find It. This a twenty-four-page story of the SS Central America's sinking off the Carolina coast in 1857 and Tommy Thompson's efforts at salvaging its lost gold in the 1980s. As the long subtitle suggests, things do not go well for Thompson after his success, leading some to believe that the treasure is cursed. Derek tells how he was already familiar with Andy Warner's comics, and that this is the kind of reality-based and journalistic story you'll find in many of his other self-published comics and in the work he does in for such outlets as The Nib and KQED. Learn more about Andy Warner's work at  his website. Andy and Derek then wrap up with a look at the first issue of Briggs Land (Dark Horse Comics), the much-anticipated series from Brian Wood and Mack Chater and under development for AMC. In fact, the guys start off by discussing the written-with-television-in-mind phenomenon in comics and what it might mean for storytelling practices in the medium. Neither of the guys fault Wood and Chater -- or Dark Horse -- for the transmedia nature of Briggs Land, although they had different reactions to the title's potential. Derek was more taken by the story, seeing it as a return to the kind of narrative Wood created in DMZ, while Andy thought the premise less original and too close to the family crime-related television series Sons of Anarchy and Justified. Still, it's a title with great promise, whether you follow it eagerly in the monthly comics or more casually wait for the trade. Wed, 24 Aug 2016 10:57:19 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Not Too Mainstream-y Time Codes: 00:00:30 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Listener mail 00:11:07 - Smoke Signal #25 00:33:54 - Fool's Gold 00:44:49 - Briggs Land #1 01:00:28 - Wrap up 01:01:26 - Contact us On this week's review episode, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three recent titles, a couple of which are probably not on most listeners' radar. They begin with one of these, the latest issue of Smoke Signal, a quarterly tabloid comics anthology published by Desert Island Comics (a shop in Brooklyn, NY) and edited by Gabe Fowler. Andy and Derek focus mainly on the summer 2016 issue, #25, although they also mention several comics in the previous spring issue. Some of the standouts in the latest include Tim Lane's contributions -- the Steve McQueen-inspired "Barnstormer" and the tabloid's center spread, "The Assassination of Billy Lyons by that Bad Man Stagger Lee" -- a new "Cosplayers" story from Dash Shaw, another in Al Columbia's "Pim and Francie" series, Siobhan Gallagher's experimental "Apartment to Be," the portfolio of Jay Rummel art, and a cover by the great Will Elder, a painting that was intended for the third issue of Harvey Kurtzman's Trump (the magazine was canceled after the second issue). Next, the guys turn to Andy Warner's self-published Fool's Gold: The True Story of the Greates Lost Treasure in American History and the Man Who Had the Bad Luck to Find It. This a twenty-four-page story of the SS Central America's sinking off the Carolina coast in 1857 and Tommy Thompson's efforts at salvaging its lost gold in the 1980s. As the long subtitle suggests, things do not go well for Thompson after his success, leading some to believe that the treasure is cursed. Derek tells how he was already familiar with Andy Warner's comics, and that this is the kind of reality-based and journalistic story you'll find in many of his other self-published comics and in the work he does in for such outlets as The Nib and KQED. Learn more about Andy Warner's work at  his website. Andy and Derek then wrap up with a look at the first issue of Briggs Land (Dark Horse Comics), the much-anticipated series from Brian Wood and Mack Chater and under development for AMC. In fact, the guys start off by discussing the written-with-television-in-mind phenomenon in comics and what it might mean for storytelling practices in the medium. Neither of the guys fault Wood and Chater -- or Dark Horse -- for the transmedia nature of Briggs Land, although they had different reactions to the title's potential. Derek was more taken by the story, seeing it as a return to the kind of narrative Wood created in DMZ, while Andy thought the premise less original and too close to the family crime-related television series Sons of Anarchy and Justified. Still, it's a title with great promise, whether you follow it eagerly in the monthly comics or more casually wait for the trade. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:30 - Introduction
  • 00:02:33 - Listener mail
  • 00:11:07 - Smoke Signal #25
  • 00:33:54 - Fool's Gold
  • 00:44:49 - Briggs Land #1
  • 01:00:28 - Wrap up
  • 01:01:26 - Contact us

On this week's review episode, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three recent titles, a couple of which are probably not on most listeners' radar. They begin with one of these, the latest issue of Smoke Signal, a quarterly tabloid comics anthology published by Desert Island Comics (a shop in Brooklyn, NY) and edited by Gabe Fowler. Andy and Derek focus mainly on the summer 2016 issue, #25, although they also mention several comics in the previous spring issue. Some of the standouts in the latest include Tim Lane's contributions -- the Steve McQueen-inspired "Barnstormer" and the tabloid's center spread, "The Assassination of Billy Lyons by that Bad Man Stagger Lee" -- a new "Cosplayers" story from Dash Shaw, another in Al Columbia's "Pim and Francie" series, Siobhan Gallagher's experimental "Apartment to Be," the portfolio of Jay Rummel art, and a cover by the great Will Elder, a painting that was intended for the third issue of Harvey Kurtzman's Trump (the magazine was canceled after the second issue).

Next, the guys turn to Andy Warner's self-published Fool's Gold: The True Story of the Greates Lost Treasure in American History and the Man Who Had the Bad Luck to Find It. This a twenty-four-page story of the SS Central America's sinking off the Carolina coast in 1857 and Tommy Thompson's efforts at salvaging its lost gold in the 1980s. As the long subtitle suggests, things do not go well for Thompson after his success, leading some to believe that the treasure is cursed. Derek tells how he was already familiar with Andy Warner's comics, and that this is the kind of reality-based and journalistic story you'll find in many of his other self-published comics and in the work he does in for such outlets as The Nib and KQED. Learn more about Andy Warner's work at  his website.

Andy and Derek then wrap up with a look at the first issue of Briggs Land (Dark Horse Comics), the much-anticipated series from Brian Wood and Mack Chater and under development for AMC. In fact, the guys start off by discussing the written-with-television-in-mind phenomenon in comics and what it might mean for storytelling practices in the medium. Neither of the guys fault Wood and Chater -- or Dark Horse -- for the transmedia nature of Briggs Land, although they had different reactions to the title's potential. Derek was more taken by the story, seeing it as a return to the kind of narrative Wood created in DMZ, while Andy thought the premise less original and too close to the family crime-related television series Sons of Anarchy and Justified. Still, it's a title with great promise, whether you follow it eagerly in the monthly comics or more casually wait for the trade.

]]> 3877 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Leela Corman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-leela-corman Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:07 - Setup of interview 00:03:01 - Interview with Leela Corman 01:06:25 - Wrap up 01:07:25 - Contact us On this interview show, Andy and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Leela Corman. Her latest book, We All Wish for Deadly Force, was just recently released by Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, and it's a collection of shorter comics spanning a wide range of topic and tone. These pieces have previously appeared in such publications as The Nib, Tablet, Women's Review of Books, and Nautilus, and the guys begin by asking Leela about her work with these magazines. As both Derek and Andy point out, the comics in this collection fall into one of three main (and, at times, interconnected) categories: stories addressing the loss of her first daughter, Rosalie; those focusing on Leela's family and her Jewish roots; and tales involving bellydancing, one of Leela's passions. Indeed, the loss of Rosalie arguably pervades this entire collection in some form or another -- see the guys' earlier interview with Leela's husband Tom Hart for more on this topic -- and the guys talk with Leela about the role that art can play in dealing with trauma. But there are also lighter moments in this collection, such as the occasional comedy found in Leela's Jewishness as well as her exercise in live drawing the Eurovision song contest. The guys also take the opportunity to talk with their guest about her earlier works, such as Unterzakhn and Queen's Day, and her upcoming fictional narrative set in the 1940s. Tue, 23 Aug 2016 12:24:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Trauma, Bellydancing, and Eurovision Time Codes: 00:00:25 - Introduction 00:02:07 - Setup of interview 00:03:01 - Interview with Leela Corman 01:06:25 - Wrap up 01:07:25 - Contact us On this interview show, Andy and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Leela Corman. Her latest book, We All Wish for Deadly Force, was just recently released by Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, and it's a collection of shorter comics spanning a wide range of topic and tone. These pieces have previously appeared in such publications as The Nib, Tablet, Women's Review of Books, and Nautilus, and the guys begin by asking Leela about her work with these magazines. As both Derek and Andy point out, the comics in this collection fall into one of three main (and, at times, interconnected) categories: stories addressing the loss of her first daughter, Rosalie; those focusing on Leela's family and her Jewish roots; and tales involving bellydancing, one of Leela's passions. Indeed, the loss of Rosalie arguably pervades this entire collection in some form or another -- see the guys' earlier interview with Leela's husband Tom Hart for more on this topic -- and the guys talk with Leela about the role that art can play in dealing with trauma. But there are also lighter moments in this collection, such as the occasional comedy found in Leela's Jewishness as well as her exercise in live drawing the Eurovision song contest. The guys also take the opportunity to talk with their guest about her earlier works, such as Unterzakhn and Queen's Day, and her upcoming fictional narrative set in the 1940s. Time Codes:

  • 00:00:25 - Introduction
  • 00:02:07 - Setup of interview
  • 00:03:01 - Interview with Leela Corman
  • 01:06:25 - Wrap up
  • 01:07:25 - Contact us

On this interview show, Andy and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Leela Corman. Her latest book, We All Wish for Deadly Force, was just recently released by Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, and it's a collection of shorter comics spanning a wide range of topic and tone. These pieces have previously appeared in such publications as The Nib, Tablet, Women's Review of Books, and Nautilus, and the guys begin by asking Leela about her work with these magazines. As both Derek and Andy point out, the comics in this collection fall into one of three main (and, at times, interconnected) categories: stories addressing the loss of her first daughter, Rosalie; those focusing on Leela's family and her Jewish roots; and tales involving bellydancing, one of Leela's passions. Indeed, the loss of Rosalie arguably pervades this entire collection in some form or another -- see the guys' earlier interview with Leela's husband Tom Hart for more on this topic -- and the guys talk with Leela about the role that art can play in dealing with trauma. But there are also lighter moments in this collection, such as the occasional comedy found in Leela's Jewishness as well as her exercise in live drawing the Eurovision song contest. The guys also take the opportunity to talk with their guest about her earlier works, such as Unterzakhn and Queen's Day, and her upcoming fictional narrative set in the 1940s.

]]> 4227 no Young Readers: Reviews of Mighty Jack and Ghosts http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-mighty-jack-and-ghosts Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 03:33 - Announcement: the Young Readers series' one-year anniversary! 06:51 - Might Jack 22:26 - Ghosts 45:17 - Wrap up 45:37 - Contact us Although some kids may not be so excited to be heading back to school, Gwen and Andy (the Two People with PhDs) give young readers cause to rejoice this month with the upcoming release of two new graphic novels: Mighty Jack (First Second) by Ben Hatke and Ghosts (Graphix/Scholastic) by Raina Telgemeier. Andy starts things off with Mighty Jack, the story of a kid named Jack who’s not having a very fun summer. To make ends meet, Jack’s single mom finds a second job, but that means Jack will have sole responsibility of keeping an eye on his autistic sister Maddy. Maddy never speaks, until one day at a flea market she shocks Jack by telling him that he must buy a box of seeds from a sketchy-looking man. Later, as Jack and Maddy plant a garden with their new seeds, weird, magical, and dangerous things begin to happen. Next, Gwen introduces the highly-anticipated new book by Raina Telgemeier, Ghosts. It's the story of Catrina and her family as they move from Los Angeles to the Northern California coast, hoping the climate will agree with Cat’s sister Maya, who suffers from cystic fibrosis. Cat is shocked to discover that everyone in their new town seems obsessed with ghosts, even Maya. Cat just wishes they could just go back to L.A., but her parents -- and perhaps the ghosts -- have other plans. Gwen and Andy point out elements common in both books: parental issues, sibling rivalries and bonding, freedom, danger, and fear of the unknown. Both books are multilayered, superbly told, and they should appeal equally to readers young and old (something of a rarity these days). Although their art styles are quite different, these two books demonstrate that Hatke and Telgemeier are both masterful storytellers. These creators are producing what are perhaps their best works. It’s an exciting time for comics readers of all ages, and these are two books to pick up with confidence. Mon, 22 Aug 2016 12:29:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal All happy families...? Time Codes: 00:26 - Introduction 03:33 - Announcement: the Young Readers series' one-year anniversary! 06:51 - Might Jack 22:26 - Ghosts 45:17 - Wrap up 45:37 - Contact us Although some kids may not be so excited to be heading back to school, Gwen and Andy (the Two People with PhDs) give young readers cause to rejoice this month with the upcoming release of two new graphic novels: Mighty Jack (First Second) by Ben Hatke and Ghosts (Graphix/Scholastic) by Raina Telgemeier. Andy starts things off with Mighty Jack, the story of a kid named Jack who’s not having a very fun summer. To make ends meet, Jack’s single mom finds a second job, but that means Jack will have sole responsibility of keeping an eye on his autistic sister Maddy. Maddy never speaks, until one day at a flea market she shocks Jack by telling him that he must buy a box of seeds from a sketchy-looking man. Later, as Jack and Maddy plant a garden with their new seeds, weird, magical, and dangerous things begin to happen. Next, Gwen introduces the highly-anticipated new book by Raina Telgemeier, Ghosts. It's the story of Catrina and her family as they move from Los Angeles to the Northern California coast, hoping the climate will agree with Cat’s sister Maya, who suffers from cystic fibrosis. Cat is shocked to discover that everyone in their new town seems obsessed with ghosts, even Maya. Cat just wishes they could just go back to L.A., but her parents -- and perhaps the ghosts -- have other plans. Gwen and Andy point out elements common in both books: parental issues, sibling rivalries and bonding, freedom, danger, and fear of the unknown. Both books are multilayered, superbly told, and they should appeal equally to readers young and old (something of a rarity these days). Although their art styles are quite different, these two books demonstrate that Hatke and Telgemeier are both masterful storytellers. These creators are producing what are perhaps their best works. It’s an exciting time for comics readers of all ages, and these are two books to pick up with confidence. Time Codes:

  • 00:26 - Introduction
  • 03:33 - Announcement: the Young Readers series' one-year anniversary!
  • 06:51 - Might Jack
  • 22:26 - Ghosts
  • 45:17 - Wrap up
  • 45:37 - Contact us

Although some kids may not be so excited to be heading back to school, Gwen and Andy (the Two People with PhDs) give young readers cause to rejoice this month with the upcoming release of two new graphic novels: Mighty Jack (First Second) by Ben Hatke and Ghosts (Graphix/Scholastic) by Raina Telgemeier.

Andy starts things off with Mighty Jack, the story of a kid named Jack who’s not having a very fun summer. To make ends meet, Jack’s single mom finds a second job, but that means Jack will have sole responsibility of keeping an eye on his autistic sister Maddy. Maddy never speaks, until one day at a flea market she shocks Jack by telling him that he must buy a box of seeds from a sketchy-looking man. Later, as Jack and Maddy plant a garden with their new seeds, weird, magical, and dangerous things begin to happen.

Next, Gwen introduces the highly-anticipated new book by Raina Telgemeier, Ghosts. It's the story of Catrina and her family as they move from Los Angeles to the Northern California coast, hoping the climate will agree with Cat’s sister Maya, who suffers from cystic fibrosis. Cat is shocked to discover that everyone in their new town seems obsessed with ghosts, even Maya. Cat just wishes they could just go back to L.A., but her parents -- and perhaps the ghosts -- have other plans.

Gwen and Andy point out elements common in both books: parental issues, sibling rivalries and bonding, freedom, danger, and fear of the unknown. Both books are multilayered, superbly told, and they should appeal equally to readers young and old (something of a rarity these days). Although their art styles are quite different, these two books demonstrate that Hatke and Telgemeier are both masterful storytellers. These creators are producing what are perhaps their best works. It’s an exciting time for comics readers of all ages, and these are two books to pick up with confidence.

]]> 2954 no On Location: The August Visit to Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-august-visit-to-collected-comics-and-games This month for the on-location recording at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, the discussion table is rather crowded. Derek is joined by many of the regular Collected customers -- Craig, Matt, and Nick -- but joining the conversation for the first time are Tristan, Chris, and Carrie, as well as Brian, the shop's newest associate. The talk begins with Craig's recounting of his own experiences at this year's San Diego Comic-Com, but then it segues into a discussion of recent comics that folks have been reading. Some of those titles include Grant Morrison's Klaus, Divinity II, Black Hammer, Backstagers, Giant Days, Voltron Legendary Defender, Fight Club 2, Black Panther, Wonder Woman, and various Brian K. Vaughan titles.  They also discuss several comics-related Netflix shows, DC's upcoming Young Animal series, and writers in other media who have tried their hands in comics. Needless to say, this is a packed episode with a full table of participants and plenty of topics to go around. Fri, 19 Aug 2016 15:38:05 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal New Voices This month for the on-location recording at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, the discussion table is rather crowded. Derek is joined by many of the regular Collected customers -- Craig, Matt, and Nick -- but joining the conversation for the first time are Tristan, Chris, and Carrie, as well as Brian, the shop's newest associate. The talk begins with Craig's recounting of his own experiences at this year's San Diego Comic-Com, but then it segues into a discussion of recent comics that folks have been reading. Some of those titles include Grant Morrison's Klaus, Divinity II, Black Hammer, Backstagers, Giant Days, Voltron Legendary Defender, Fight Club 2, Black Panther, Wonder Woman, and various Brian K. Vaughan titles.  They also discuss several comics-related Netflix shows, DC's upcoming Young Animal series, and writers in other media who have tried their hands in comics. Needless to say, this is a packed episode with a full table of participants and plenty of topics to go around. This month for the on-location recording at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, the discussion table is rather crowded. Derek is joined by many of the regular Collected customers -- Craig, Matt, and Nick -- but joining the conversation for the first time are Tristan, Chris, and Carrie, as well as Brian, the shop's newest associate. The talk begins with Craig's recounting of his own experiences at this year's San Diego Comic-Com, but then it segues into a discussion of recent comics that folks have been reading. Some of those titles include Grant Morrison's Klaus, Divinity II, Black Hammer, Backstagers, Giant Days, Voltron Legendary Defender, Fight Club 2, Black Panther, Wonder Woman, and various Brian K. Vaughan titles.  They also discuss several comics-related Netflix shows, DC's upcoming Young Animal series, and writers in other media who have tried their hands in comics. Needless to say, this is a packed episode with a full table of participants and plenty of topics to go around.

]]> 5091 no Episode 201: Reviews of Tarzan: The Complete Joe Kubert Years, Faith #1, and Black Hammer #1 and #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-201-reviews-of-tarzan-the-complete-joe-kubert-years-faith-1-and-black-hammer-1-and-2 This week the Two Guys with PhDs visit grounds they rarely tread: superhero comics. Don't worry, they don't completely forsake their mission statement, but they definitely approach the line. While each of the titles they discuss reflect the mainstream and/or the superhero genre, in one way or another, they all nonetheless stand outside of the usual machinations of the Big Two. The guys begin with Tarzan: The Complete Joe Kubert Years (Dark Horse Books), a 600+ page omnibus collecting almost all of Kubert's DC Tarzan run. Or at least those stories on which he served as artist, in some way. In fact, Andy admits at the outset that this idea for a superhero-tinged episode springs from him wanting to discuss Kubert's Tarzan. And as both he and Derek make clear, this is an impressive volume that is well worth reading. It contains adaptations of three of Edgar Rice Burroughs's novels -- Tarzan of the Apes, The Return of Tarzan, and Tarzan and the Iron Man -- and a wealth of short stories Kubert wrote for the 1970s series. Some are more traditional jungle adventures, while others (such as "The Magic Herb" and the one Korak story in the collection) delve into the fantastic. Next, Derek and Andy look at the first issue in the new ongoing Faith series from Valiant Comics, written by Jody Houser with art by Pere Perez and Marguerite Sauvage. Last year the publisher began a four-issue miniseries based on Zephyr, the crimefighting identity of Faith Hebert. That was apparently successful enough to warrant an ongoing series. What makes this title so appealing is its lighter tone, contrasting sharply with the dark and gritty atmosphere found in most superhero comics, and especially its handling of the female protagonist. Through the figure of Faith, Houser explores popular (mis)conceptions of female body image and heroic ideals. In this way, Faith can be read as a meta-commentary on the superhero genre and pop culture fandom, as a whole. The Two Guys wrap up their sorta-superhero show with a discussion of Jeff Lemire and Dean Ormston's Black Hammer (Dark Horse Comics). Issue #2 comes out this week, and guys point out the possible similarities between this title and Lemire's Plutona for Image Comics. The premise is intriguing, although it participates in the kind of alternative superhero storytelling often found in non-Big Two publishers. Both Andy and Derek are on board for this title, especially given Ormston's art, although they're not sure if they're going to read this on an issue-by-issue basis or if this is a title that might better be read in trade collections. It's something they recommend that listeners should definitely pick up and then decide for themselves. Wed, 17 Aug 2016 13:21:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Superhero-y kind of stuff” This week the Two Guys with PhDs visit grounds they rarely tread: superhero comics. Don't worry, they don't completely forsake their mission statement, but they definitely approach the line. While each of the titles they discuss reflect the mainstream and/or the superhero genre, in one way or another, they all nonetheless stand outside of the usual machinations of the Big Two. The guys begin with Tarzan: The Complete Joe Kubert Years (Dark Horse Books), a 600+ page omnibus collecting almost all of Kubert's DC Tarzan run. Or at least those stories on which he served as artist, in some way. In fact, Andy admits at the outset that this idea for a superhero-tinged episode springs from him wanting to discuss Kubert's Tarzan. And as both he and Derek make clear, this is an impressive volume that is well worth reading. It contains adaptations of three of Edgar Rice Burroughs's novels -- Tarzan of the Apes, The Return of Tarzan, and Tarzan and the Iron Man -- and a wealth of short stories Kubert wrote for the 1970s series. Some are more traditional jungle adventures, while others (such as "The Magic Herb" and the one Korak story in the collection) delve into the fantastic. Next, Derek and Andy look at the first issue in the new ongoing Faith series from Valiant Comics, written by Jody Houser with art by Pere Perez and Marguerite Sauvage. Last year the publisher began a four-issue miniseries based on Zephyr, the crimefighting identity of Faith Hebert. That was apparently successful enough to warrant an ongoing series. What makes this title so appealing is its lighter tone, contrasting sharply with the dark and gritty atmosphere found in most superhero comics, and especially its handling of the female protagonist. Through the figure of Faith, Houser explores popular (mis)conceptions of female body image and heroic ideals. In this way, Faith can be read as a meta-commentary on the superhero genre and pop culture fandom, as a whole. The Two Guys wrap up their sorta-superhero show with a discussion of Jeff Lemire and Dean Ormston's Black Hammer (Dark Horse Comics). Issue #2 comes out this week, and guys point out the possible similarities between this title and Lemire's Plutona for Image Comics. The premise is intriguing, although it participates in the kind of alternative superhero storytelling often found in non-Big Two publishers. Both Andy and Derek are on board for this title, especially given Ormston's art, although they're not sure if they're going to read this on an issue-by-issue basis or if this is a title that might better be read in trade collections. It's something they recommend that listeners should definitely pick up and then decide for themselves. This week the Two Guys with PhDs visit grounds they rarely tread: superhero comics. Don't worry, they don't completely forsake their mission statement, but they definitely approach the line. While each of the titles they discuss reflect the mainstream and/or the superhero genre, in one way or another, they all nonetheless stand outside of the usual machinations of the Big Two.

The guys begin with Tarzan: The Complete Joe Kubert Years (Dark Horse Books), a 600+ page omnibus collecting almost all of Kubert's DC Tarzan run. Or at least those stories on which he served as artist, in some way. In fact, Andy admits at the outset that this idea for a superhero-tinged episode springs from him wanting to discuss Kubert's Tarzan. And as both he and Derek make clear, this is an impressive volume that is well worth reading. It contains adaptations of three of Edgar Rice Burroughs's novels -- Tarzan of the Apes, The Return of Tarzan, and Tarzan and the Iron Man -- and a wealth of short stories Kubert wrote for the 1970s series. Some are more traditional jungle adventures, while others (such as "The Magic Herb" and the one Korak story in the collection) delve into the fantastic.

Next, Derek and Andy look at the first issue in the new ongoing Faith series from Valiant Comics, written by Jody Houser with art by Pere Perez and Marguerite Sauvage. Last year the publisher began a four-issue miniseries based on Zephyr, the crimefighting identity of Faith Hebert. That was apparently successful enough to warrant an ongoing series. What makes this title so appealing is its lighter tone, contrasting sharply with the dark and gritty atmosphere found in most superhero comics, and especially its handling of the female protagonist. Through the figure of Faith, Houser explores popular (mis)conceptions of female body image and heroic ideals. In this way, Faith can be read as a meta-commentary on the superhero genre and pop culture fandom, as a whole.

The Two Guys wrap up their sorta-superhero show with a discussion of Jeff Lemire and Dean Ormston's Black Hammer (Dark Horse Comics). Issue #2 comes out this week, and guys point out the possible similarities between this title and Lemire's Plutona for Image Comics. The premise is intriguing, although it participates in the kind of alternative superhero storytelling often found in non-Big Two publishers. Both Andy and Derek are on board for this title, especially given Ormston's art, although they're not sure if they're going to read this on an issue-by-issue basis or if this is a title that might better be read in trade collections. It's something they recommend that listeners should definitely pick up and then decide for themselves.

]]> 5855 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Koren Shadmi http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-koren-shadmi On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with Koren Shadmi. His latest book, Love Addict: Confessions of a Serial Dater was released last month from Top Shelf Productions. They begin the conversation by discussing the genesis of this semi-autobiographical project and Koren's own experiences on singles dating websites. He describes the challenge of making his protagonist, K., both identifiable and problematic, all the while walking a fine line between authenticity and potential charges of misogyny. But they also discuss Koren's other works, including his experimental story collection, In the Flesh, and his webcomic-turned-book, The Abaddon. Koren also discusses his latest webcomic on the Vice channel, Motherboard, and his plans for future projects. Derek also asks his guest about last year's Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, his own Israeli roots, and his thoughts on being identified (and perhaps pigeonholed) as a Jewish or Israeli cartoonist. Mon, 15 Aug 2016 14:59:04 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Getting Personal On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with Koren Shadmi. His latest book, Love Addict: Confessions of a Serial Dater was released last month from Top Shelf Productions. They begin the conversation by discussing the genesis of this semi-autobiographical project and Koren's own experiences on singles dating websites. He describes the challenge of making his protagonist, K., both identifiable and problematic, all the while walking a fine line between authenticity and potential charges of misogyny. But they also discuss Koren's other works, including his experimental story collection, In the Flesh, and his webcomic-turned-book, The Abaddon. Koren also discusses his latest webcomic on the Vice channel, Motherboard, and his plans for future projects. Derek also asks his guest about last year's Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, his own Israeli roots, and his thoughts on being identified (and perhaps pigeonholed) as a Jewish or Israeli cartoonist. On this interview episode Derek has the pleasure of talking with Koren Shadmi. His latest book, Love Addict: Confessions of a Serial Dater was released last month from Top Shelf Productions. They begin the conversation by discussing the genesis of this semi-autobiographical project and Koren's own experiences on singles dating websites. He describes the challenge of making his protagonist, K., both identifiable and problematic, all the while walking a fine line between authenticity and potential charges of misogyny. But they also discuss Koren's other works, including his experimental story collection, In the Flesh, and his webcomic-turned-book, The Abaddon. Koren also discusses his latest webcomic on the Vice channel, Motherboard, and his plans for future projects. Derek also asks his guest about last year's Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, his own Israeli roots, and his thoughts on being identified (and perhaps pigeonholed) as a Jewish or Israeli cartoonist.

]]> 4073 no Euro Comics: Reviews of The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen and Come Prima http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-the-adventures-of-dieter-lumpen-and-come-prima On this, the second episode of the new Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss two recent publications that involve journeys, but in vastly different ways. They begin with the latest translation from IDW's EuroComics imprint, The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen. Written by Jorge Zentner and with art by Rubén Pellejero (and translated by Carlos Guzman and Dean Mullaney), this volume collects all of the Dieter Lumpen stories the two originally published between 1985 and 1994. The eleven tales contained within are standalone adventures of the titular protagonist. And his travels take him all over the globe. In fact, the guys spend a good deal of time discussing the adventure genre and how The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen taps into the rich tradition of this kind of comic by Franco-Belgian creators. But what distinguishes these stories from those of Hergé's Tintin -- and even from the kind of American adventures found in the Indiana Jones movies -- is the inadvertent, reluctant, and even unheroic nature of Dieter Lumpen's encounters. The Two Guys first talk about the eight narratives that open the book, all short stories and tightly interconnected, and then turn to the three longer pieces that close out the volume. Edward particularly appreciates the more complicating or less-than-heroic tales of Lumpen found in "Games of Chance" and "The Bad Guy," and Derek is drawn to the fantastical and even surreal quality of "Caribbean" and especially the final story, "The Reaper's Price." Indeed, both believe that the latter is Zentner and Pellejero most ambitious collaboration. After that, the guys turn to Come Prima, recently translated into English by the Delcourt (and offered through ComiXology). Written and drawn by Alfred (the pen name of Lionel Papagalli), the book won the Angoulême International Comics Festival Prize for Best Album in 2013. It's the story of two brothers, Fabio and Giovanni, as they journey from France to their childhood home in Italy. The older Fabio is estranged from his family and has a bad track record with relationships, and Giovanni arrives unexpectedly to help suture the emotional wounds his brother may have caused. The travel they undergo in their Fiat 500 is just an outward manifestation of the much deeper inner journeys both brothers make both separately and together. This is a powerful narrative showcased, first and foremost, by Alfred's art, although Edward finds the translation of this album, by Studio Charon, to be uneven in places. Nonetheless, this is an award-winning book that should be on the reading list of anyone interested in contemporary European comics. Fri, 12 Aug 2016 16:18:34 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Journeys On this, the second episode of the new Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss two recent publications that involve journeys, but in vastly different ways. They begin with the latest translation from IDW's EuroComics imprint, The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen. Written by Jorge Zentner and with art by Rubén Pellejero (and translated by Carlos Guzman and Dean Mullaney), this volume collects all of the Dieter Lumpen stories the two originally published between 1985 and 1994. The eleven tales contained within are standalone adventures of the titular protagonist. And his travels take him all over the globe. In fact, the guys spend a good deal of time discussing the adventure genre and how The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen taps into the rich tradition of this kind of comic by Franco-Belgian creators. But what distinguishes these stories from those of Hergé's Tintin -- and even from the kind of American adventures found in the Indiana Jones movies -- is the inadvertent, reluctant, and even unheroic nature of Dieter Lumpen's encounters. The Two Guys first talk about the eight narratives that open the book, all short stories and tightly interconnected, and then turn to the three longer pieces that close out the volume. Edward particularly appreciates the more complicating or less-than-heroic tales of Lumpen found in "Games of Chance" and "The Bad Guy," and Derek is drawn to the fantastical and even surreal quality of "Caribbean" and especially the final story, "The Reaper's Price." Indeed, both believe that the latter is Zentner and Pellejero most ambitious collaboration. After that, the guys turn to Come Prima, recently translated into English by the Delcourt (and offered through ComiXology). Written and drawn by Alfred (the pen name of Lionel Papagalli), the book won the Angoulême International Comics Festival Prize for Best Album in 2013. It's the story of two brothers, Fabio and Giovanni, as they journey from France to their childhood home in Italy. The older Fabio is estranged from his family and has a bad track record with relationships, and Giovanni arrives unexpectedly to help suture the emotional wounds his brother may have caused. The travel they undergo in their Fiat 500 is just an outward manifestation of the much deeper inner journeys both brothers make both separately and together. This is a powerful narrative showcased, first and foremost, by Alfred's art, although Edward finds the translation of this album, by Studio Charon, to be uneven in places. Nonetheless, this is an award-winning book that should be on the reading list of anyone interested in contemporary European comics. On this, the second episode of the new Euro Comics series, Edward and Derek discuss two recent publications that involve journeys, but in vastly different ways. They begin with the latest translation from IDW's EuroComics imprint, The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen. Written by Jorge Zentner and with art by Rubén Pellejero (and translated by Carlos Guzman and Dean Mullaney), this volume collects all of the Dieter Lumpen stories the two originally published between 1985 and 1994. The eleven tales contained within are standalone adventures of the titular protagonist. And his travels take him all over the globe. In fact, the guys spend a good deal of time discussing the adventure genre and how The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen taps into the rich tradition of this kind of comic by Franco-Belgian creators. But what distinguishes these stories from those of Hergé's Tintin -- and even from the kind of American adventures found in the Indiana Jones movies -- is the inadvertent, reluctant, and even unheroic nature of Dieter Lumpen's encounters. The Two Guys first talk about the eight narratives that open the book, all short stories and tightly interconnected, and then turn to the three longer pieces that close out the volume. Edward particularly appreciates the more complicating or less-than-heroic tales of Lumpen found in "Games of Chance" and "The Bad Guy," and Derek is drawn to the fantastical and even surreal quality of "Caribbean" and especially the final story, "The Reaper's Price." Indeed, both believe that the latter is Zentner and Pellejero most ambitious collaboration.

After that, the guys turn to Come Prima, recently translated into English by the Delcourt (and offered through ComiXology). Written and drawn by Alfred (the pen name of Lionel Papagalli), the book won the Angoulême International Comics Festival Prize for Best Album in 2013. It's the story of two brothers, Fabio and Giovanni, as they journey from France to their childhood home in Italy. The older Fabio is estranged from his family and has a bad track record with relationships, and Giovanni arrives unexpectedly to help suture the emotional wounds his brother may have caused. The travel they undergo in their Fiat 500 is just an outward manifestation of the much deeper inner journeys both brothers make both separately and together. This is a powerful narrative showcased, first and foremost, by Alfred's art, although Edward finds the translation of this album, by Studio Charon, to be uneven in places. Nonetheless, this is an award-winning book that should be on the reading list of anyone interested in contemporary European comics.

]]> 5822 no Episode 200: Reviews of Hillbilly #1 and #2, Satan's Sodomy Baby #2, and Time Clock http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-200-reviews-of-hillbilly-1-and-2-satans-sodomy-baby-2-and-time-clock On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy celebrate their 200th regular review episode! They begin by sharing some of the messages and well wishes they've received from listeners in the past couple of weeks. After that, they get into a discussion of this week's review titles. They begin with Eric Powell's new series, Hillbilly (Albatross Funnybooks), the second issue of which was just released last week. The guys focus on Powell's use of folktale tropes and storytelling techniques, pointing out that this title reads more somberly than does The Goon and Billy the Kid's Old Timey Oddities (at least so far), although it does have its humorous moments. Albeit subtle. Much more in-your-face is Satan's Sodomy Baby #2 -- branded as SSBII for "safer" consumption -- Powell's other Albatross Funnybooks publication. This is a follow up to the 2007 one-shot Satan's Sodomy Baby, and like the earlier issue this comic book will not be reprinted nor will it be released digitally. And, appropriately enough, it comes in a sealed bag and parental advisory warning, so as to avoid any immature hands. While this issue of Satan's Sodomy Baby isn't as scatological as the first, it's over-the-top in an entirely different way. Current politics is what drives this story, and Donald J. Trump is the butt (pun intended) of Powell's scathing satire, small hands and all. The Two Guys wrap up this week's episode with a look at Leslie Stein's Time Clock: An Eye of the Majestic Creature Book (Fantagraphics). Very different from last year's Bright-Eyed at Midnight, this book is a follow up to Stein's other Eye of the Majestic Creature releases from 2011 and 2013. Andy and Derek discuss the the phantasmagorical stories that make up the text, wondering if the protagonist's life events -- e.g., her sand counting and the relationship with her anthropomorphic guitar friend, Marshmallow -- may have any allegorical connections to Stein's own life. But what drives the narrative is Stein's seemingly mundane observations, clothed in the fantastic, and especially her art style, a curious mixture of cartoon and creepy. Wed, 10 Aug 2016 12:37:23 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Donald Trump's Small Hands On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy celebrate their 200th regular review episode! They begin by sharing some of the messages and well wishes they've received from listeners in the past couple of weeks. After that, they get into a discussion of this week's review titles. They begin with Eric Powell's new series, Hillbilly (Albatross Funnybooks), the second issue of which was just released last week. The guys focus on Powell's use of folktale tropes and storytelling techniques, pointing out that this title reads more somberly than does The Goon and Billy the Kid's Old Timey Oddities (at least so far), although it does have its humorous moments. Albeit subtle. Much more in-your-face is Satan's Sodomy Baby #2 -- branded as SSBII for "safer" consumption -- Powell's other Albatross Funnybooks publication. This is a follow up to the 2007 one-shot Satan's Sodomy Baby, and like the earlier issue this comic book will not be reprinted nor will it be released digitally. And, appropriately enough, it comes in a sealed bag and parental advisory warning, so as to avoid any immature hands. While this issue of Satan's Sodomy Baby isn't as scatological as the first, it's over-the-top in an entirely different way. Current politics is what drives this story, and Donald J. Trump is the butt (pun intended) of Powell's scathing satire, small hands and all. The Two Guys wrap up this week's episode with a look at Leslie Stein's Time Clock: An Eye of the Majestic Creature Book (Fantagraphics). Very different from last year's Bright-Eyed at Midnight, this book is a follow up to Stein's other Eye of the Majestic Creature releases from 2011 and 2013. Andy and Derek discuss the the phantasmagorical stories that make up the text, wondering if the protagonist's life events -- e.g., her sand counting and the relationship with her anthropomorphic guitar friend, Marshmallow -- may have any allegorical connections to Stein's own life. But what drives the narrative is Stein's seemingly mundane observations, clothed in the fantastic, and especially her art style, a curious mixture of cartoon and creepy. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy celebrate their 200th regular review episode! They begin by sharing some of the messages and well wishes they've received from listeners in the past couple of weeks.

After that, they get into a discussion of this week's review titles. They begin with Eric Powell's new series, Hillbilly (Albatross Funnybooks), the second issue of which was just released last week. The guys focus on Powell's use of folktale tropes and storytelling techniques, pointing out that this title reads more somberly than does The Goon and Billy the Kid's Old Timey Oddities (at least so far), although it does have its humorous moments. Albeit subtle.

Much more in-your-face is Satan's Sodomy Baby #2 -- branded as SSBII for "safer" consumption -- Powell's other Albatross Funnybooks publication. This is a follow up to the 2007 one-shot Satan's Sodomy Baby, and like the earlier issue this comic book will not be reprinted nor will it be released digitally. And, appropriately enough, it comes in a sealed bag and parental advisory warning, so as to avoid any immature hands. While this issue of Satan's Sodomy Baby isn't as scatological as the first, it's over-the-top in an entirely different way. Current politics is what drives this story, and Donald J. Trump is the butt (pun intended) of Powell's scathing satire, small hands and all.

The Two Guys wrap up this week's episode with a look at Leslie Stein's Time Clock: An Eye of the Majestic Creature Book (Fantagraphics). Very different from last year's Bright-Eyed at Midnight, this book is a follow up to Stein's other Eye of the Majestic Creature releases from 2011 and 2013. Andy and Derek discuss the the phantasmagorical stories that make up the text, wondering if the protagonist's life events -- e.g., her sand counting and the relationship with her anthropomorphic guitar friend, Marshmallow -- may have any allegorical connections to Stein's own life. But what drives the narrative is Stein's seemingly mundane observations, clothed in the fantastic, and especially her art style, a curious mixture of cartoon and creepy.

]]> 5029 yes Webcomics: Reviews of Sam and Fuzzy, Ulysses Seen, and Biome http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-sam-and-fuzzy-ulysses-seen-and-biome This month on the webcomics series, Sean and Derek delve into three tonally different titles. They begin with Sam Logan's long-running Sam and Fuzzy. This is a series that has been around since 2001, starting off as a gag strip in Logan's college's student newspaper and then becoming a webcomic in 2002. The creator diligently keeps his Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule of publication, and with almost fifteen years behind it, that's a substantive webcomic. In fact, the Two Guys discuss the intricacies of its storylines, the expansion of its cast, and the evolution of Logan's art. One would be hard pressed to find a webcomic with a more dynamic history, and the guys try their best to cover as many points as possible. Next, Derek and Sean's discussion takes a decidedly literary turn with Ulysses Seen, a webcomic adaptation of James Joyce's masterpiece. Illustrated and adapted by Robert Berry, this is a project that attempts to capture the novel it the fullest sense. This is no mere graphic Cliff Notes version of Ulysses, but one that tries to represent Joyce's voice and style. Accompanying the webcomic proper are analytical blog postings by Mike Barsanti, contextualizing the story and explicating its many facets. This is certainly an ambitious endeavor -- it even has its own app in the iTunes store -- although the guys do note the webcomic's biggest weakness: its design. It's not easy to navigate the website and find your way around, and there are too many duplicate pages or links to nowhere. What's more, the webcomic doesn't seem to have been updated since 2011 or 2013 (it's not easy to determine each page's publication date), and the adaptation is only up to Episode Five: The Lotus Eaters. But if you're a fan of the classic and have patience, then Ulysses Seen can be worth the wait. Finally, the guys wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Adam Szym's Biome. This is a short piece that can be found at Szym's website Good Show Sir, along with a number of his other comics. This webcomic stands out for intricacy of art and especially its design for reading. Sean points out that it employs some of Scott McCloud's ideas behind the "infinite canvas," and Derek feels that the reading experience is similar to what you will find with Study Group Comics. But however you approach it, this highly stylized work, with its fantastical tone and sci-fi leanings, is standout example of what webcomics are capable of. Mon, 08 Aug 2016 13:24:13 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Intricacies This month on the webcomics series, Sean and Derek delve into three tonally different titles. They begin with Sam Logan's long-running Sam and Fuzzy. This is a series that has been around since 2001, starting off as a gag strip in Logan's college's student newspaper and then becoming a webcomic in 2002. The creator diligently keeps his Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule of publication, and with almost fifteen years behind it, that's a substantive webcomic. In fact, the Two Guys discuss the intricacies of its storylines, the expansion of its cast, and the evolution of Logan's art. One would be hard pressed to find a webcomic with a more dynamic history, and the guys try their best to cover as many points as possible. Next, Derek and Sean's discussion takes a decidedly literary turn with Ulysses Seen, a webcomic adaptation of James Joyce's masterpiece. Illustrated and adapted by Robert Berry, this is a project that attempts to capture the novel it the fullest sense. This is no mere graphic Cliff Notes version of Ulysses, but one that tries to represent Joyce's voice and style. Accompanying the webcomic proper are analytical blog postings by Mike Barsanti, contextualizing the story and explicating its many facets. This is certainly an ambitious endeavor -- it even has its own app in the iTunes store -- although the guys do note the webcomic's biggest weakness: its design. It's not easy to navigate the website and find your way around, and there are too many duplicate pages or links to nowhere. What's more, the webcomic doesn't seem to have been updated since 2011 or 2013 (it's not easy to determine each page's publication date), and the adaptation is only up to Episode Five: The Lotus Eaters. But if you're a fan of the classic and have patience, then Ulysses Seen can be worth the wait. Finally, the guys wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Adam Szym's Biome. This is a short piece that can be found at Szym's website Good Show Sir, along with a number of his other comics. This webcomic stands out for intricacy of art and especially its design for reading. Sean points out that it employs some of Scott McCloud's ideas behind the "infinite canvas," and Derek feels that the reading experience is similar to what you will find with Study Group Comics. But however you approach it, this highly stylized work, with its fantastical tone and sci-fi leanings, is standout example of what webcomics are capable of. This month on the webcomics series, Sean and Derek delve into three tonally different titles. They begin with Sam Logan's long-running Sam and Fuzzy. This is a series that has been around since 2001, starting off as a gag strip in Logan's college's student newspaper and then becoming a webcomic in 2002. The creator diligently keeps his Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule of publication, and with almost fifteen years behind it, that's a substantive webcomic. In fact, the Two Guys discuss the intricacies of its storylines, the expansion of its cast, and the evolution of Logan's art. One would be hard pressed to find a webcomic with a more dynamic history, and the guys try their best to cover as many points as possible.

Next, Derek and Sean's discussion takes a decidedly literary turn with Ulysses Seen, a webcomic adaptation of James Joyce's masterpiece. Illustrated and adapted by Robert Berry, this is a project that attempts to capture the novel it the fullest sense. This is no mere graphic Cliff Notes version of Ulysses, but one that tries to represent Joyce's voice and style. Accompanying the webcomic proper are analytical blog postings by Mike Barsanti, contextualizing the story and explicating its many facets. This is certainly an ambitious endeavor -- it even has its own app in the iTunes store -- although the guys do note the webcomic's biggest weakness: its design. It's not easy to navigate the website and find your way around, and there are too many duplicate pages or links to nowhere. What's more, the webcomic doesn't seem to have been updated since 2011 or 2013 (it's not easy to determine each page's publication date), and the adaptation is only up to Episode Five: The Lotus Eaters. But if you're a fan of the classic and have patience, then Ulysses Seen can be worth the wait.

Finally, the guys wrap up with an already completed webcomic, Adam Szym's Biome. This is a short piece that can be found at Szym's website Good Show Sir, along with a number of his other comics. This webcomic stands out for intricacy of art and especially its design for reading. Sean points out that it employs some of Scott McCloud's ideas behind the "infinite canvas," and Derek feels that the reading experience is similar to what you will find with Study Group Comics. But however you approach it, this highly stylized work, with its fantastical tone and sci-fi leanings, is standout example of what webcomics are capable of.

]]> 6524 no Episode 199: The August Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-199-the-august-previews-catalog This week on the podcast, Andy and Derek discuss the August Previews catalog. Even more importantly, the Two Guys celebrate the four-year anniversary of the podcast! That's right, The Comics Alternative is now four years old, having its first episode published on August 1, 2012. So this episode begins with a brief assessment of the many episodes they've done over the years. But the core of this week's show is a discussing of the solicitations in the latest Previews...and there are a lot of them worth mentioning. So many, in fact, that this is another extra long episode. Among the many upcoming title Derek and Andy highlight are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Bait, Spell on Wheels #1, and Muhammad Ali DC/Vertigo - Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye #1, The Lost Boys #1, and The Unwritten: Deluxe Edition, Book One IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Dirk Gently: The Salmon of Doubt #1, Tom Tomorrow: 25 Years of Tomorrow, The Electric Sublime #1, and Super Weird Heroes Image Comics - Moonshine #1, Cannibal #1, Thought Bubble Anthology Collection Abrams ComicArts - Si Lewen’s Parade: An Artist’s Odyssey AfterShock - Shipwreck #1 Albatross Funnybooks - Spookhouse #1 Alternative Comics - Cowboys and Insects, Johnny Appleseed, and Reich #1 Arsenal Pulp Press - Such a Lovely Little War: Saigon 1961-63 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - We All Wish for Deadly Force Drawn & Quarterly - A Walk in Eden, Kitaro Meets Nurarihyon, and Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria, and Iraq Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Hammerhead #1, Betty Boop #1, and Will Eisner’s The Spirit Vol. 1: The Spirit Returns Fanfare/Ponent Mon - A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Fantagraphics Books - Looking for America's Dog, Enough Astronaut Blood to Last the Winter, Weathercraft, and More Heroes of the Comics First Second - Demon, Vol. 1, Science Comics: Volcanoes, and Tetris: The Games People Play Hill & Wang - Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery Houghton Mifflin Harcourt - Best American Comics 2016 Humanoids - El Niño Insight Comics - Baker Street Four, Vol. 1 Kodansha - Neo Parasite F NBM - A Treasury of 20th-Century Murder: Black Dahlia Nobrow Press - How to Survive the North Odod/Uncivilized Books - Musnet, Vol. 2 Oni Press - Angel City #1 and Heartthrob, Vol. 1 Pantheon - Last Look SelfMadeHero - Art Masters Series, Vol. 4: Dali and The Return of the Honey Buzzard Titan Comics - Peepland #1 and Triggerman #1 VIZ Media - Tokyo Ghoul, Vol. 9 and Platinum End Wed, 03 Aug 2016 11:51:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal You Say It's Your Birthday This week on the podcast, Andy and Derek discuss the August Previews catalog. Even more importantly, the Two Guys celebrate the four-year anniversary of the podcast! That's right, The Comics Alternative is now four years old, having its first episode published on August 1, 2012. So this episode begins with a brief assessment of the many episodes they've done over the years. But the core of this week's show is a discussing of the solicitations in the latest Previews...and there are a lot of them worth mentioning. So many, in fact, that this is another extra long episode. Among the many upcoming title Derek and Andy highlight are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Bait, Spell on Wheels #1, and Muhammad Ali DC/Vertigo - Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye #1, The Lost Boys #1, and The Unwritten: Deluxe Edition, Book One IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Dirk Gently: The Salmon of Doubt #1, Tom Tomorrow: 25 Years of Tomorrow, The Electric Sublime #1, and Super Weird Heroes Image Comics - Moonshine #1, Cannibal #1, Thought Bubble Anthology Collection Abrams ComicArts - Si Lewen’s Parade: An Artist’s Odyssey AfterShock - Shipwreck #1 Albatross Funnybooks - Spookhouse #1 Alternative Comics - Cowboys and Insects, Johnny Appleseed, and Reich #1 Arsenal Pulp Press - Such a Lovely Little War: Saigon 1961-63 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - We All Wish for Deadly Force Drawn & Quarterly - A Walk in Eden, Kitaro Meets Nurarihyon, and Rolling Blackouts: Dispatches from Turkey, Syria, and Iraq Dynamite Entertainment - James Bond: Hammerhead #1, Betty Boop #1, and Will Eisner’s The Spirit Vol. 1: The Spirit Returns Fanfare/Ponent Mon - A Distant Neighborhood: Complete Fantagraphics Books - Looking for America's Dog, Enough Astronaut Blood to Last the Winter, Weathercraft, and More Heroes of the Comics First Second - Demon, Vol. 1, Science Comics: Volcanoes, and Tetris: The Games People Play Hill & Wang - Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery Houghton Mifflin Harcourt - Best American Comics 2016 Humanoids - El Niño Insight Comics - Baker Street Four, Vol. 1 Kodansha - Neo Parasite F NBM - A Treasury of 20th-Century Murder: Black Dahlia Nobrow Press - How to Survive the North Odod/Uncivilized Books - Musnet, Vol. 2 Oni Press - Angel City #1 and Heartthrob, Vol. 1 Pantheon - Last Look SelfMadeHero - Art Masters Series, Vol. 4: Dali and The Return of the Honey Buzzard Titan Comics - Peepland #1 and Triggerman #1 VIZ Media - Tokyo Ghoul, Vol. 9 and Platinum End This week on the podcast, Andy and Derek discuss the August Previews catalog. Even more importantly, the Two Guys celebrate the four-year anniversary of the podcast! That's right, The Comics Alternative is now four years old, having its first episode published on August 1, 2012. So this episode begins with a brief assessment of the many episodes they've done over the years. But the core of this week's show is a discussing of the solicitations in the latest Previews...and there are a lot of them worth mentioning. So many, in fact, that this is another extra long episode. Among the many upcoming title Derek and Andy highlight are from publishers such as

]]> 7855 no Special Announcement from The Two Guys with PhDs! http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/special-announcement-from-the-two-guys-with-phds Andy and Derek take a few moments to make a special announcement. August 1st will be their four-year anniversary, and the Two Guys with PhDs would like for listeners help celebrate by responding with their well wishes! That's right, get in touch with them via voice message, phone, email, and various forms of social media to tell them happy birthday! Sat, 30 Jul 2016 12:03:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Listen Up! Andy and Derek take a few moments to make a special announcement. August 1st will be their four-year anniversary, and the Two Guys with PhDs would like for listeners help celebrate by responding with their well wishes! That's right, get in touch with them via voice message, phone, email, and various forms of social media to tell them happy birthday! Andy and Derek take a few moments to make a special announcement. August 1st will be their four-year anniversary, and the Two Guys with PhDs would like for listeners help celebrate by responding with their well wishes! That's right, get in touch with them via voice message, phone, email, and various forms of social media to tell them happy birthday!

]]> 371 no Manga: Reviews of Red Red Rock and The Osamu Tezuka Story http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-red-red-rock-and-the-osamu-tezuka-story On the July manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two recent publications that highlight, in different ways, the history of the Japanese medium. They begin with Seiichi Hayashi's Red Red Rock and Other Stories 1967-1970 (Breakdown Press). All but two stories that compose this collection were originally published in Garo, examples of the avant-garde coming from that publication in its heyday. Although not nearly as abstract and non-linear, Hayashi's manga reminds the guys of Sasaki Maki’s Ding Dong Circus, which they discussed in December's manga episode (and also a Breakdown Press publication). As both Derek and Shea point out, the stories collected in Red Red Rock represent some of the earliest of Hayashi's efforts, and they're noticeably more experimental, or at least less linear, than his other work available in English, such as Red Colored Elegy and the stories in Gold Pollen and Other Stories. Adding to this collection is an astute contextualizing essay by Ryan Holmberg, also the book's translator. After their trip down Garo-inspired memory lane, the Two Guys turn to a work that delineates a much earlier chapter in manga history. The Osamu Tezuka Story: A Life in Manga and Anime is a graphic biography of a man often called "the god of manga" and published by Stone Bridge Press. Created by Toshio Ban (who served as Tezuka's "sub-chief" assistant) and Tezuka Productions, and translated by Frederik L. Schodt, the book appears to be a collaborative, or even corporate, effort to tease out the dynamism and the many facets of its subject's life. In fact, both Shea and Derek feel that there are too many details embedded in the narrative and that the book's 869 pages of story (not counting the substantive Appendixes) could have been paired down significantly. What's more, the tone of the the biography is blatantly reverential and becomes almost too much at times. Readers are presented with example after example of the seemingly superhuman nature of Tezuka, and with little insight into the contradictions and complications that would define any artist's life. Still, The Osamu Tezuka Story is a recommended read and a useful, albeit lengthy, introduction to this manga legend. Fri, 29 Jul 2016 13:37:48 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Oozy, goopy liquid” On the July manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two recent publications that highlight, in different ways, the history of the Japanese medium. They begin with Seiichi Hayashi's Red Red Rock and Other Stories 1967-1970 (Breakdown Press). All but two stories that compose this collection were originally published in Garo, examples of the avant-garde coming from that publication in its heyday. Although not nearly as abstract and non-linear, Hayashi's manga reminds the guys of Sasaki Maki’s Ding Dong Circus, which they discussed in December's manga episode (and also a Breakdown Press publication). As both Derek and Shea point out, the stories collected in Red Red Rock represent some of the earliest of Hayashi's efforts, and they're noticeably more experimental, or at least less linear, than his other work available in English, such as Red Colored Elegy and the stories in Gold Pollen and Other Stories. Adding to this collection is an astute contextualizing essay by Ryan Holmberg, also the book's translator. After their trip down Garo-inspired memory lane, the Two Guys turn to a work that delineates a much earlier chapter in manga history. The Osamu Tezuka Story: A Life in Manga and Anime is a graphic biography of a man often called "the god of manga" and published by Stone Bridge Press. Created by Toshio Ban (who served as Tezuka's "sub-chief" assistant) and Tezuka Productions, and translated by Frederik L. Schodt, the book appears to be a collaborative, or even corporate, effort to tease out the dynamism and the many facets of its subject's life. In fact, both Shea and Derek feel that there are too many details embedded in the narrative and that the book's 869 pages of story (not counting the substantive Appendixes) could have been paired down significantly. What's more, the tone of the the biography is blatantly reverential and becomes almost too much at times. Readers are presented with example after example of the seemingly superhuman nature of Tezuka, and with little insight into the contradictions and complications that would define any artist's life. Still, The Osamu Tezuka Story is a recommended read and a useful, albeit lengthy, introduction to this manga legend. On the July manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two recent publications that highlight, in different ways, the history of the Japanese medium. They begin with Seiichi Hayashi's Red Red Rock and Other Stories 1967-1970 (Breakdown Press). All but two stories that compose this collection were originally published in Garo, examples of the avant-garde coming from that publication in its heyday. Although not nearly as abstract and non-linear, Hayashi's manga reminds the guys of Sasaki Maki’s Ding Dong Circus, which they discussed in December's manga episode (and also a Breakdown Press publication). As both Derek and Shea point out, the stories collected in Red Red Rock represent some of the earliest of Hayashi's efforts, and they're noticeably more experimental, or at least less linear, than his other work available in English, such as Red Colored Elegy and the stories in Gold Pollen and Other Stories. Adding to this collection is an astute contextualizing essay by Ryan Holmberg, also the book's translator.

After their trip down Garo-inspired memory lane, the Two Guys turn to a work that delineates a much earlier chapter in manga history. The Osamu Tezuka Story: A Life in Manga and Anime is a graphic biography of a man often called "the god of manga" and published by Stone Bridge Press. Created by Toshio Ban (who served as Tezuka's "sub-chief" assistant) and Tezuka Productions, and translated by Frederik L. Schodt, the book appears to be a collaborative, or even corporate, effort to tease out the dynamism and the many facets of its subject's life. In fact, both Shea and Derek feel that there are too many details embedded in the narrative and that the book's 869 pages of story (not counting the substantive Appendixes) could have been paired down significantly. What's more, the tone of the the biography is blatantly reverential and becomes almost too much at times. Readers are presented with example after example of the seemingly superhuman nature of Tezuka, and with little insight into the contradictions and complications that would define any artist's life. Still, The Osamu Tezuka Story is a recommended read and a useful, albeit lengthy, introduction to this manga legend.

]]> 5424 no Episode 198: Reviews of The Black Dahlia, Kill or Be Killed #1, and Sombra #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-198-reviews-of-the-blue-dahlia-kill-or-be-killed-1-and-sombra-1 This week the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to three recent noir titles. But before they jump into their reviews, they talk about comics news and recent awards. First, they congratulate Sonny Liew on receiving this year's Singapore Literature Prize for English fiction for his best-selling work The Art Of Charlie Chan Hock Chye. This comes on the heels of him getting the Book of the Year accolade at the Singapore Book Awards, held in May. Next, Andy and Derek say a few words about the results of this year's Eisner Awards, announced at SDCC last Friday. The guys note that there are really no surprises in the winners, and that with perhaps one or two exceptions, those coming out on top in their categories make perfect sense. They are particularly pleased that so many of the titles and creators that they've discussed on the podcast received this recognition, and they are especially excited that so many friends of the show -- such as Craig Yoe and Tom Heintjes -- received the coveted Eisner. After all of the awards talk, the guys get into the nitty gritty of this week's episode. They start off with an adaptation of James Ellroy's The Black Dahlia (BOOM! Studios/Archaia), the first in the novelist's L.A. Quartet. Adapted by Matz and David Fincher, and with art by Miles Hyman, the story springs from the real-life murder of Elizabeth Short in 1947. As with the original book, this graphic novel reveals the dark underside of Los Angeles and the post-war days of its entertainment industry. And it contains all of the icons and tropes that define noir narrative. From there the guys turn to the latest collaboration from the superb crime-writing team of Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips, and Elizabeth Breitweiser, Kill or Be Killed #1 (Image Comics). This first issue has all of the trappings of the kind of stories we've come to expect from Brubaker and Phillips (e.g., The Fade Out, Criminal, Sleeper), but there's a particular twist to the plot that recalls the supernatural tinges of Fatale. In fact, Derek and Andy aren't sure if what happens in the story is because of other-worldly forces or just the result of psychological imbalance. Finally, the guys wrap up with yet another crime comic, Justin Jordan and Raul Trevino's Sombra #1 (BOOM! Studios). This story revolves around a young DEA agent, Danielle, and the mystery surrounding the disappearance of her father, also an agent. This first issue takes the narrative into some dark places, and the guys focus on this comic as a retelling of Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. In fact, the missing DEA agent is name Conrad Marlowe. How appropriate! Wed, 27 Jul 2016 11:56:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Moral Black Holes This week the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to three recent noir titles. But before they jump into their reviews, they talk about comics news and recent awards. First, they congratulate Sonny Liew on receiving this year's Singapore Literature Prize for English fiction for his best-selling work The Art Of Charlie Chan Hock Chye. This comes on the heels of him getting the Book of the Year accolade at the Singapore Book Awards, held in May. Next, Andy and Derek say a few words about the results of this year's Eisner Awards, announced at SDCC last Friday. The guys note that there are really no surprises in the winners, and that with perhaps one or two exceptions, those coming out on top in their categories make perfect sense. They are particularly pleased that so many of the titles and creators that they've discussed on the podcast received this recognition, and they are especially excited that so many friends of the show -- such as Craig Yoe and Tom Heintjes -- received the coveted Eisner. After all of the awards talk, the guys get into the nitty gritty of this week's episode. They start off with an adaptation of James Ellroy's The Black Dahlia (BOOM! Studios/Archaia), the first in the novelist's L.A. Quartet. Adapted by Matz and David Fincher, and with art by Miles Hyman, the story springs from the real-life murder of Elizabeth Short in 1947. As with the original book, this graphic novel reveals the dark underside of Los Angeles and the post-war days of its entertainment industry. And it contains all of the icons and tropes that define noir narrative. From there the guys turn to the latest collaboration from the superb crime-writing team of Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips, and Elizabeth Breitweiser, Kill or Be Killed #1 (Image Comics). This first issue has all of the trappings of the kind of stories we've come to expect from Brubaker and Phillips (e.g., The Fade Out, Criminal, Sleeper), but there's a particular twist to the plot that recalls the supernatural tinges of Fatale. In fact, Derek and Andy aren't sure if what happens in the story is because of other-worldly forces or just the result of psychological imbalance. Finally, the guys wrap up with yet another crime comic, Justin Jordan and Raul Trevino's Sombra #1 (BOOM! Studios). This story revolves around a young DEA agent, Danielle, and the mystery surrounding the disappearance of her father, also an agent. This first issue takes the narrative into some dark places, and the guys focus on this comic as a retelling of Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. In fact, the missing DEA agent is name Conrad Marlowe. How appropriate! This week the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to three recent noir titles. But before they jump into their reviews, they talk about comics news and recent awards.

First, they congratulate Sonny Liew on receiving this year's Singapore Literature Prize for English fiction for his best-selling work The Art Of Charlie Chan Hock Chye. This comes on the heels of him getting the Book of the Year accolade at the Singapore Book Awards, held in May.

Next, Andy and Derek say a few words about the results of this year's Eisner Awards, announced at SDCC last Friday. The guys note that there are really no surprises in the winners, and that with perhaps one or two exceptions, those coming out on top in their categories make perfect sense. They are particularly pleased that so many of the titles and creators that they've discussed on the podcast received this recognition, and they are especially excited that so many friends of the show -- such as Craig Yoe and Tom Heintjes -- received the coveted Eisner.

After all of the awards talk, the guys get into the nitty gritty of this week's episode. They start off with an adaptation of James Ellroy's The Black Dahlia (BOOM! Studios/Archaia), the first in the novelist's L.A. Quartet. Adapted by Matz and David Fincher, and with art by Miles Hyman, the story springs from the real-life murder of Elizabeth Short in 1947. As with the original book, this graphic novel reveals the dark underside of Los Angeles and the post-war days of its entertainment industry. And it contains all of the icons and tropes that define noir narrative.

From there the guys turn to the latest collaboration from the superb crime-writing team of Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips, and Elizabeth Breitweiser, Kill or Be Killed #1 (Image Comics). This first issue has all of the trappings of the kind of stories we've come to expect from Brubaker and Phillips (e.g., The Fade Out, Criminal, Sleeper), but there's a particular twist to the plot that recalls the supernatural tinges of Fatale. In fact, Derek and Andy aren't sure if what happens in the story is because of other-worldly forces or just the result of psychological imbalance.

Finally, the guys wrap up with yet another crime comic, Justin Jordan and Raul Trevino's Sombra #1 (BOOM! Studios). This story revolves around a young DEA agent, Danielle, and the mystery surrounding the disappearance of her father, also an agent. This first issue takes the narrative into some dark places, and the guys focus on this comic as a retelling of Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. In fact, the missing DEA agent is name Conrad Marlowe. How appropriate!

]]> 4738 yes Young Readers: A Special Look at the 2016 Eisner Awards http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-a-special-look-at-the-2016-eisner-award-winners On this special episode of the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative, Gwen and Andy take a look at the 2016 Eisner Award nominees and winners in each of the three young readers categories. The Two People with PhDs discuss not only the books and their creators, but also the categories themselves, the changes they’ve seen in those categories over the years, and changes they’d like to see in the future. Gwen and Andy know you’ll find some great books here and hope you’ll share your thoughts with them once you’ve read them. (You can find a complete list of all the Eisner Award winners here as well as the complete list of nominees here.) In the lists below, the winner of the category is in bold face type. Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) • Anna Banana and the Chocolate Explosion, by Dominque Roques and Alexis Dormal (First Second) • Little Robot, by Ben Hatke (First Second) • The Only Child, by Guojing (Schwartz & Wade) • SheHeWe, by Lee Nordling and Meritxell Bosch (Lerner Graphic Universe) • Written and Drawn by Henrietta, by Liniers (Ricardo Siri Linders, an Argentine creator) (TOON Books) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) • Baba Yaga’s Assistant, by Marika McCoola and Emily Carroll (Candlewick) • Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War, by Jessica Dee Humphreys, Michel Chikwanine, and Claudia Devila (Kids Can Press) • Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: The Underground Abductor, by Nathan Hale (Abrams Amulet) • Over the Garden Wall, by Pat McHale, Amalia Levari, and Jim Campbell (BOOM! Studios/KaBOOM!) • Roller Girl, by Victoria Jamieson (Dial Books) • Sunny Side Up, by Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm (Scholastic Graphix) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) • Awkward, by Svetlana Chmakova (Yen Press) • Drowned City: Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans, by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) • March: Book Two, by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf/IDW) • Moose, by Max de Radiguès (Conundrum) • Oyster War, by Ben Towle (Oni) • SuperMutant Magic Academy, by Jillian Tamaki (Drawn & Quarterly)   Mon, 25 Jul 2016 12:01:37 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal And the Winners Are… On this special episode of the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative, Gwen and Andy take a look at the 2016 Eisner Award nominees and winners in each of the three young readers categories. The Two People with PhDs discuss not only the books and their creators, but also the categories themselves, the changes they’ve seen in those categories over the years, and changes they’d like to see in the future. Gwen and Andy know you’ll find some great books here and hope you’ll share your thoughts with them once you’ve read them. (You can find a complete list of all the Eisner Award winners here as well as the complete list of nominees here.) In the lists below, the winner of the category is in bold face type. Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8) • Anna Banana and the Chocolate Explosion, by Dominque Roques and Alexis Dormal (First Second) • Little Robot, by Ben Hatke (First Second) • The Only Child, by Guojing (Schwartz & Wade) • SheHeWe, by Lee Nordling and Meritxell Bosch (Lerner Graphic Universe) • Written and Drawn by Henrietta, by Liniers (Ricardo Siri Linders, an Argentine creator) (TOON Books) Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12) • Baba Yaga’s Assistant, by Marika McCoola and Emily Carroll (Candlewick) • Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War, by Jessica Dee Humphreys, Michel Chikwanine, and Claudia Devila (Kids Can Press) • Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: The Underground Abductor, by Nathan Hale (Abrams Amulet) • Over the Garden Wall, by Pat McHale, Amalia Levari, and Jim Campbell (BOOM! Studios/KaBOOM!) • Roller Girl, by Victoria Jamieson (Dial Books) • Sunny Side Up, by Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm (Scholastic Graphix) Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17) • Awkward, by Svetlana Chmakova (Yen Press) • Drowned City: Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans, by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) • March: Book Two, by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf/IDW) • Moose, by Max de Radiguès (Conundrum) • Oyster War, by Ben Towle (Oni) • SuperMutant Magic Academy, by Jillian Tamaki (Drawn & Quarterly)   On this special episode of the Young Readers edition of The Comics Alternative, Gwen and Andy take a look at the 2016 Eisner Award nominees and winners in each of the three young readers categories. The Two People with PhDs discuss not only the books and their creators, but also the categories themselves, the changes they’ve seen in those categories over the years, and changes they’d like to see in the future. Gwen and Andy know you’ll find some great books here and hope you’ll share your thoughts with them once you’ve read them. (You can find a complete list of all the Eisner Award winners here as well as the complete list of nominees here.)

In the lists below, the winner of the category is in bold face type.

Best Publication for Early Readers (up to age 8)

• Anna Banana and the Chocolate Explosion, by Dominque Roques and Alexis Dormal (First Second)

• Little Robot, by Ben Hatke (First Second)

• The Only Child, by Guojing (Schwartz & Wade)

• SheHeWe, by Lee Nordling and Meritxell Bosch (Lerner Graphic Universe)

• Written and Drawn by Henrietta, by Liniers (Ricardo Siri Linders, an Argentine creator) (TOON Books)

Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12)

• Baba Yaga’s Assistant, by Marika McCoola and Emily Carroll (Candlewick)

• Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War, by Jessica Dee Humphreys, Michel Chikwanine, and Claudia Devila (Kids Can Press)

• Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: The Underground Abductor, by Nathan Hale (Abrams Amulet)

• Over the Garden Wall, by Pat McHale, Amalia Levari, and Jim Campbell (BOOM! Studios/KaBOOM!)

• Roller Girl, by Victoria Jamieson (Dial Books)

• Sunny Side Up, by Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm (Scholastic Graphix)

Best Publication for Teens (ages 13-17)

• Awkward, by Svetlana Chmakova (Yen Press)

• Drowned City: Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans, by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)

• March: Book Two, by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf/IDW)

• Moose, by Max de Radiguès (Conundrum)

• Oyster War, by Ben Towle (Oni)

• SuperMutant Magic Academy, by Jillian Tamaki (Drawn & Quarterly)

 

]]> 3602 no Comics Alternative Interviews: John Porcellino http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-john-porcellino On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest John Porcellino. Issue #76 of his long-running (twenty-six year!) minicomic, King-Cat Comics and Stories, has just been released, and the Two Guys talk with John about how different this issue is from his previous one. That issue, a heartfelt memorial to his cat, Maisie Kukoc, was more of a long-form story that may have expanded his audience. Andy asks John what readers who came to his work through issue #75 might think of the latest release, a more traditional issue of King-Cat Comics and Stories, and that question sets the stage for the rest of the conversation. Among the many topics John discusses in this interview are his processes of note-taking, the stylistic turning points of his career, his views on autobiographical comics, his experiences as a self-publisher and comics distributor, his philosophy of personal revelation, and the roles that music continues to play in his comics. In fact, one of the more interesting takeaways from the interview is John's understand of his zines as being analogous to record albums. He constructs them in the same ways musicians might pull together a two-sided LP. Along the way, Derek and Andy also talk with John about his book-length stories and collections, specifically Perfect Example and The Hospital Suite. This is an engaging conversation, one that is really a long time in coming for The Comics Alternative. If there is indeed a King of the Minicomics, then John Porcellino should be the one wearing that crown. Fri, 22 Jul 2016 13:59:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Musical Constructions On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest John Porcellino. Issue #76 of his long-running (twenty-six year!) minicomic, King-Cat Comics and Stories, has just been released, and the Two Guys talk with John about how different this issue is from his previous one. That issue, a heartfelt memorial to his cat, Maisie Kukoc, was more of a long-form story that may have expanded his audience. Andy asks John what readers who came to his work through issue #75 might think of the latest release, a more traditional issue of King-Cat Comics and Stories, and that question sets the stage for the rest of the conversation. Among the many topics John discusses in this interview are his processes of note-taking, the stylistic turning points of his career, his views on autobiographical comics, his experiences as a self-publisher and comics distributor, his philosophy of personal revelation, and the roles that music continues to play in his comics. In fact, one of the more interesting takeaways from the interview is John's understand of his zines as being analogous to record albums. He constructs them in the same ways musicians might pull together a two-sided LP. Along the way, Derek and Andy also talk with John about his book-length stories and collections, specifically Perfect Example and The Hospital Suite. This is an engaging conversation, one that is really a long time in coming for The Comics Alternative. If there is indeed a King of the Minicomics, then John Porcellino should be the one wearing that crown. On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest John Porcellino. Issue #76 of his long-running (twenty-six year!) minicomic, King-Cat Comics and Stories, has just been released, and the Two Guys talk with John about how different this issue is from his previous one. That issue, a heartfelt memorial to his cat, Maisie Kukoc, was more of a long-form story that may have expanded his audience. Andy asks John what readers who came to his work through issue #75 might think of the latest release, a more traditional issue of King-Cat Comics and Stories, and that question sets the stage for the rest of the conversation. Among the many topics John discusses in this interview are his processes of note-taking, the stylistic turning points of his career, his views on autobiographical comics, his experiences as a self-publisher and comics distributor, his philosophy of personal revelation, and the roles that music continues to play in his comics. In fact, one of the more interesting takeaways from the interview is John's understand of his zines as being analogous to record albums. He constructs them in the same ways musicians might pull together a two-sided LP. Along the way, Derek and Andy also talk with John about his book-length stories and collections, specifically Perfect Example and The Hospital Suite. This is an engaging conversation, one that is really a long time in coming for The Comics Alternative. If there is indeed a King of the Minicomics, then John Porcellino should be the one wearing that crown.

]]> 4656 yes Episode 197: Reviews of Cousin Joseph, Bounty #1, and The Paybacks #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-197-reviews-of-cousin-joseph-bounty-1-and-the-paybacks-1 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, those funky PhDs, Andy and Derek, discuss three recent titles revolving around the mercenary side of crime fighting. They begin with Jules Feiffer's Cousin Joseph (Liveright Publishing), the second in a planned trilogy of noir-tinged graphic novels. It is the follow up to 2014's Kill My Mother, a text that Feiffer discussed with the Two Guys in a previous interview. The events in Cousin Joseph predate those of the earlier book, making it a sort of prequel. In fact, many of the major players in Kill My Mother make appearances in this new work. Most notable are the characters Elsie and Annie, whose husband/father Sam becomes the central figure in the current narrative. Derek and Andy note the fact that Cousin Joseph is a more tightly constructed, and even a more ambitious, work than its predecessor, especially in its engagements with the sociopolitical matters of its setting. Next, the guys look at the first issue of a new series by Kurtis Wiebe and Mindy Lee. Bounty (Dark Horse Comics) is a futuristic adventure focusing on the exploits of two anticorporate criminal sisters who eventually become bounty hunters. Almost from the beginning, the guys compare this title to Wiebe's Rat Queens, but both Andy and Derek feel that the first issue in this new series lacks the humor and cohesion of the earlier comic. Indeed, there were parts of the story that were unclear -- some of it due to writing, and some because of the its visual perspectives -- and the exposition at the very beginning unintentionally compounded this confusion. Nonetheless, the premise shows promise, and Mindy Lee's art went a long way in carrying the narrative forward. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with another first issue...sort of. The Paybacks #1, written by Donny Cates and Eliot Rahal, with art by Geoff Shaw, is part of Heavy Metal's new initiative to produce monthly ongoing series, but this isn't the first time we've seen this title. Last year Dark Horse published the series' first narrative arc, four issues recently collected in a trade, and now this recent manifestation picks up where the earlier one left off. Derek and Andy set a context by discussing the Dark Horse series and then segue into the new issue. The transition between publishers is seamless, with Cates and Rahal sustaining the humor and action of their high concept. But what really gets the guys' attention is Shaw's art, with its detail of character expression and more realistic flourishes. Andy and Derek comment that if The Paybacks is the kind of story we can expect coming out from Heavy Metal Comics, then we might just have a publishing endeavor similar to AfterShock on the horizon. Wed, 20 Jul 2016 11:46:23 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mercenaries This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, those funky PhDs, Andy and Derek, discuss three recent titles revolving around the mercenary side of crime fighting. They begin with Jules Feiffer's Cousin Joseph (Liveright Publishing), the second in a planned trilogy of noir-tinged graphic novels. It is the follow up to 2014's Kill My Mother, a text that Feiffer discussed with the Two Guys in a previous interview. The events in Cousin Joseph predate those of the earlier book, making it a sort of prequel. In fact, many of the major players in Kill My Mother make appearances in this new work. Most notable are the characters Elsie and Annie, whose husband/father Sam becomes the central figure in the current narrative. Derek and Andy note the fact that Cousin Joseph is a more tightly constructed, and even a more ambitious, work than its predecessor, especially in its engagements with the sociopolitical matters of its setting. Next, the guys look at the first issue of a new series by Kurtis Wiebe and Mindy Lee. Bounty (Dark Horse Comics) is a futuristic adventure focusing on the exploits of two anticorporate criminal sisters who eventually become bounty hunters. Almost from the beginning, the guys compare this title to Wiebe's Rat Queens, but both Andy and Derek feel that the first issue in this new series lacks the humor and cohesion of the earlier comic. Indeed, there were parts of the story that were unclear -- some of it due to writing, and some because of the its visual perspectives -- and the exposition at the very beginning unintentionally compounded this confusion. Nonetheless, the premise shows promise, and Mindy Lee's art went a long way in carrying the narrative forward. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with another first issue...sort of. The Paybacks #1, written by Donny Cates and Eliot Rahal, with art by Geoff Shaw, is part of Heavy Metal's new initiative to produce monthly ongoing series, but this isn't the first time we've seen this title. Last year Dark Horse published the series' first narrative arc, four issues recently collected in a trade, and now this recent manifestation picks up where the earlier one left off. Derek and Andy set a context by discussing the Dark Horse series and then segue into the new issue. The transition between publishers is seamless, with Cates and Rahal sustaining the humor and action of their high concept. But what really gets the guys' attention is Shaw's art, with its detail of character expression and more realistic flourishes. Andy and Derek comment that if The Paybacks is the kind of story we can expect coming out from Heavy Metal Comics, then we might just have a publishing endeavor similar to AfterShock on the horizon. This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, those funky PhDs, Andy and Derek, discuss three recent titles revolving around the mercenary side of crime fighting. They begin with Jules Feiffer's Cousin Joseph (Liveright Publishing), the second in a planned trilogy of noir-tinged graphic novels. It is the follow up to 2014's Kill My Mother, a text that Feiffer discussed with the Two Guys in a previous interview. The events in Cousin Joseph predate those of the earlier book, making it a sort of prequel. In fact, many of the major players in Kill My Mother make appearances in this new work. Most notable are the characters Elsie and Annie, whose husband/father Sam becomes the central figure in the current narrative. Derek and Andy note the fact that Cousin Joseph is a more tightly constructed, and even a more ambitious, work than its predecessor, especially in its engagements with the sociopolitical matters of its setting.

Next, the guys look at the first issue of a new series by Kurtis Wiebe and Mindy Lee. Bounty (Dark Horse Comics) is a futuristic adventure focusing on the exploits of two anticorporate criminal sisters who eventually become bounty hunters. Almost from the beginning, the guys compare this title to Wiebe's Rat Queens, but both Andy and Derek feel that the first issue in this new series lacks the humor and cohesion of the earlier comic. Indeed, there were parts of the story that were unclear -- some of it due to writing, and some because of the its visual perspectives -- and the exposition at the very beginning unintentionally compounded this confusion. Nonetheless, the premise shows promise, and Mindy Lee's art went a long way in carrying the narrative forward.

Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with another first issue...sort of. The Paybacks #1, written by Donny Cates and Eliot Rahal, with art by Geoff Shaw, is part of Heavy Metal's new initiative to produce monthly ongoing series, but this isn't the first time we've seen this title. Last year Dark Horse published the series' first narrative arc, four issues recently collected in a trade, and now this recent manifestation picks up where the earlier one left off. Derek and Andy set a context by discussing the Dark Horse series and then segue into the new issue. The transition between publishers is seamless, with Cates and Rahal sustaining the humor and action of their high concept. But what really gets the guys' attention is Shaw's art, with its detail of character expression and more realistic flourishes. Andy and Derek comment that if The Paybacks is the kind of story we can expect coming out from Heavy Metal Comics, then we might just have a publishing endeavor similar to AfterShock on the horizon.

]]> 5032 no Episode 196: Reviews of The Stranger, Snotgirl #1, and Frontier #12 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-196-reviews-of-the-stranger-snotgirl-1-and-frontier-12 On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three very different recent titles. They begin with the comics adaptation of Albert Camus's The Stranger, written and illustrated by Jacques Ferrandez (Pegasus Books). Originally published in French 2013 -- and translated by Sandra Smith -- this is a graphic retelling of the absurdist classic. What is most notable about their discussion is that the guys are coming at this book from different perspectives of awareness. Derek knows the work of Camus very well, while Gene had never read the original novella. This leads them to slightly different interpretations of the story events as revealed through Meursault's narration. And the guys' experiential differences also come through in their readings of the text's absurdist theme. Next, Gene and Derek look at Bryan Lee O'Malley and Leslie Hung's Snotgirl #1 (Image Comics). This is O'Malley's first monthly series, and the guys were expecting a lot from this title. While both appreciate Hung's art, they're not entirely sure what to make of the story...at least, yet. At times it seems as if O'Malley is trying too hard to capture a particularly younger voice. And this is strange, coming from the creator of the Scott Pilgrim series. For example, both Derek and Gene are unsure of the story's emphasis on the "hipness" of blogging. On the one hand this premise seems passé, but on the other hand the guys wonder if O'Malley is just establishing a tone that he will critique in subsequent issues. Ultimately, while the guys are intrigued by this inaugural issue, they're nonetheless going to adopt a "wait and see" attitude and discover how the story unfolds. The final segment of the episode is devoted to the latest issue of Frontier, the quarterly monograph series of new talent from Youth in Decline. Kelly Kwang is the artist of the most recent release, #12, a non-linear narrative surrounding a game called Space Youth Cadets. This isn't so much of a story as it is an exploration of the contexts surrounding such a game: what powers certain characters have, their storyworld, their clothing and accoutrements, and the designs that would distinguish the game in the public eye. Kwang's black-and-white art is both intricate and intimate, revealing a closeness with technology and social networking. Derek and Gene also say a few words about Frontier #6, Emily Carroll's issue that has just recently come back into print, and about the Frontier series as a whole. Wed, 13 Jul 2016 11:53:15 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal An Episode of Discovery On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three very different recent titles. They begin with the comics adaptation of Albert Camus's The Stranger, written and illustrated by Jacques Ferrandez (Pegasus Books). Originally published in French 2013 -- and translated by Sandra Smith -- this is a graphic retelling of the absurdist classic. What is most notable about their discussion is that the guys are coming at this book from different perspectives of awareness. Derek knows the work of Camus very well, while Gene had never read the original novella. This leads them to slightly different interpretations of the story events as revealed through Meursault's narration. And the guys' experiential differences also come through in their readings of the text's absurdist theme. Next, Gene and Derek look at Bryan Lee O'Malley and Leslie Hung's Snotgirl #1 (Image Comics). This is O'Malley's first monthly series, and the guys were expecting a lot from this title. While both appreciate Hung's art, they're not entirely sure what to make of the story...at least, yet. At times it seems as if O'Malley is trying too hard to capture a particularly younger voice. And this is strange, coming from the creator of the Scott Pilgrim series. For example, both Derek and Gene are unsure of the story's emphasis on the "hipness" of blogging. On the one hand this premise seems passé, but on the other hand the guys wonder if O'Malley is just establishing a tone that he will critique in subsequent issues. Ultimately, while the guys are intrigued by this inaugural issue, they're nonetheless going to adopt a "wait and see" attitude and discover how the story unfolds. The final segment of the episode is devoted to the latest issue of Frontier, the quarterly monograph series of new talent from Youth in Decline. Kelly Kwang is the artist of the most recent release, #12, a non-linear narrative surrounding a game called Space Youth Cadets. This isn't so much of a story as it is an exploration of the contexts surrounding such a game: what powers certain characters have, their storyworld, their clothing and accoutrements, and the designs that would distinguish the game in the public eye. Kwang's black-and-white art is both intricate and intimate, revealing a closeness with technology and social networking. Derek and Gene also say a few words about Frontier #6, Emily Carroll's issue that has just recently come back into print, and about the Frontier series as a whole. On this week's episode, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three very different recent titles. They begin with the comics adaptation of Albert Camus's The Stranger, written and illustrated by Jacques Ferrandez (Pegasus Books). Originally published in French 2013 -- and translated by Sandra Smith -- this is a graphic retelling of the absurdist classic. What is most notable about their discussion is that the guys are coming at this book from different perspectives of awareness. Derek knows the work of Camus very well, while Gene had never read the original novella. This leads them to slightly different interpretations of the story events as revealed through Meursault's narration. And the guys' experiential differences also come through in their readings of the text's absurdist theme.

Next, Gene and Derek look at Bryan Lee O'Malley and Leslie Hung's Snotgirl #1 (Image Comics). This is O'Malley's first monthly series, and the guys were expecting a lot from this title. While both appreciate Hung's art, they're not entirely sure what to make of the story...at least, yet. At times it seems as if O'Malley is trying too hard to capture a particularly younger voice. And this is strange, coming from the creator of the Scott Pilgrim series. For example, both Derek and Gene are unsure of the story's emphasis on the "hipness" of blogging. On the one hand this premise seems passé, but on the other hand the guys wonder if O'Malley is just establishing a tone that he will critique in subsequent issues. Ultimately, while the guys are intrigued by this inaugural issue, they're nonetheless going to adopt a "wait and see" attitude and discover how the story unfolds.

The final segment of the episode is devoted to the latest issue of Frontier, the quarterly monograph series of new talent from Youth in Decline. Kelly Kwang is the artist of the most recent release, #12, a non-linear narrative surrounding a game called Space Youth Cadets. This isn't so much of a story as it is an exploration of the contexts surrounding such a game: what powers certain characters have, their storyworld, their clothing and accoutrements, and the designs that would distinguish the game in the public eye. Kwang's black-and-white art is both intricate and intimate, revealing a closeness with technology and social networking. Derek and Gene also say a few words about Frontier #6, Emily Carroll's issue that has just recently come back into print, and about the Frontier series as a whole.

]]> 5910 no Webcomics: Reviews of Tales of the Emerald Yeti, Outsider, and Battlepug http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-tales-of-the-emerald-yeti-outsider-and-battlepug For the July webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three titles that not only vary in content and genre, but are also different in the ways they are designed and consumed. They begin with two current and ongoing webcomics, Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt's Tales of the Emerald Yeti and Jim Francis's Outsider. The former is just one of the comics on the creators' publishing site, Near Mint Press. In fact, the Two Guys spend a bit of time discussing the presentation platform of this webcomic -- Minter and Pruitt use Google's free Blogger service -- pointing out that its navigation and consumption feels antiquated and isn't what they've usually come to expect from most webcomics. Nonetheless, Emerald Yeti is a fun pulp-infused read of post-Vietnam America that has the feel of an old Marvel serial of the 1970s. After that, Sean and Derek turn to Outsider, a webcomic that began back in October 2001, but whose updates are so infrequent as to make this a relatively young narrative. The guys mention that Francis's combination of 3D settings and 2D hand-drawn artwork are an effective means in presenting this hard sci-fi story. But what gives Outsider such a sophisticated edge is the author's use of mystery and focalization. All the information we get is filtered through the protagonist, Alex Jardin, and his inabilities to thoroughly read the alien cultures he encounters generate more questions than answers. Finally, the guys wrap up this month's show with a discussion of a webcomic that concluded just last month. Mike Norton's Battlepug is an Eisner and Harvey Award-winning webcomic that takes the sword-and-sorcery fantasy subgenre into parodic, and pet-friendly, avenues. This story has been running consistently since February 2011, and it has been collected in hardcover editions annually by Dark Horse Books. Although both of the guys enjoy Norton's storytelling technique, they differ on its ultimate effectiveness. While Sean feels that the frequency of narrating scenes -- that is, visual reminders that the story of Battlepug is being told by a young tattooed woman to her two dogs -- disrupts from his enjoyment of the story proper, Derek appreciates these constant shifts from one narrative level to another, as it highlights the complex dynamics of storytelling. And this is arguably one of the book's central themes. Still, the guys definitely agree that Battlepug is a sophisticated story well worth reading. Mon, 11 Jul 2016 12:05:53 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Adventures in Genre For the July webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three titles that not only vary in content and genre, but are also different in the ways they are designed and consumed. They begin with two current and ongoing webcomics, Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt's Tales of the Emerald Yeti and Jim Francis's Outsider. The former is just one of the comics on the creators' publishing site, Near Mint Press. In fact, the Two Guys spend a bit of time discussing the presentation platform of this webcomic -- Minter and Pruitt use Google's free Blogger service -- pointing out that its navigation and consumption feels antiquated and isn't what they've usually come to expect from most webcomics. Nonetheless, Emerald Yeti is a fun pulp-infused read of post-Vietnam America that has the feel of an old Marvel serial of the 1970s. After that, Sean and Derek turn to Outsider, a webcomic that began back in October 2001, but whose updates are so infrequent as to make this a relatively young narrative. The guys mention that Francis's combination of 3D settings and 2D hand-drawn artwork are an effective means in presenting this hard sci-fi story. But what gives Outsider such a sophisticated edge is the author's use of mystery and focalization. All the information we get is filtered through the protagonist, Alex Jardin, and his inabilities to thoroughly read the alien cultures he encounters generate more questions than answers. Finally, the guys wrap up this month's show with a discussion of a webcomic that concluded just last month. Mike Norton's Battlepug is an Eisner and Harvey Award-winning webcomic that takes the sword-and-sorcery fantasy subgenre into parodic, and pet-friendly, avenues. This story has been running consistently since February 2011, and it has been collected in hardcover editions annually by Dark Horse Books. Although both of the guys enjoy Norton's storytelling technique, they differ on its ultimate effectiveness. While Sean feels that the frequency of narrating scenes -- that is, visual reminders that the story of Battlepug is being told by a young tattooed woman to her two dogs -- disrupts from his enjoyment of the story proper, Derek appreciates these constant shifts from one narrative level to another, as it highlights the complex dynamics of storytelling. And this is arguably one of the book's central themes. Still, the guys definitely agree that Battlepug is a sophisticated story well worth reading. For the July webcomics episode, Sean and Derek discuss three titles that not only vary in content and genre, but are also different in the ways they are designed and consumed. They begin with two current and ongoing webcomics, Kenn Minter and Clarence Pruitt's Tales of the Emerald Yeti and Jim Francis's Outsider. The former is just one of the comics on the creators' publishing site, Near Mint Press. In fact, the Two Guys spend a bit of time discussing the presentation platform of this webcomic -- Minter and Pruitt use Google's free Blogger service -- pointing out that its navigation and consumption feels antiquated and isn't what they've usually come to expect from most webcomics. Nonetheless, Emerald Yeti is a fun pulp-infused read of post-Vietnam America that has the feel of an old Marvel serial of the 1970s.

After that, Sean and Derek turn to Outsider, a webcomic that began back in October 2001, but whose updates are so infrequent as to make this a relatively young narrative. The guys mention that Francis's combination of 3D settings and 2D hand-drawn artwork are an effective means in presenting this hard sci-fi story. But what gives Outsider such a sophisticated edge is the author's use of mystery and focalization. All the information we get is filtered through the protagonist, Alex Jardin, and his inabilities to thoroughly read the alien cultures he encounters generate more questions than answers.

Finally, the guys wrap up this month's show with a discussion of a webcomic that concluded just last month. Mike Norton's Battlepug is an Eisner and Harvey Award-winning webcomic that takes the sword-and-sorcery fantasy subgenre into parodic, and pet-friendly, avenues. This story has been running consistently since February 2011, and it has been collected in hardcover editions annually by Dark Horse Books. Although both of the guys enjoy Norton's storytelling technique, they differ on its ultimate effectiveness. While Sean feels that the frequency of narrating scenes -- that is, visual reminders that the story of Battlepug is being told by a young tattooed woman to her two dogs -- disrupts from his enjoyment of the story proper, Derek appreciates these constant shifts from one narrative level to another, as it highlights the complex dynamics of storytelling. And this is arguably one of the book's central themes. Still, the guys definitely agree that Battlepug is a sophisticated story well worth reading.

]]> 5917 no On Location: The July Visit to Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-july-visit-to-collected-comics-and-games Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about the comics they're reading. And for the month of July, the topic of conversation is summer reading. Many of the shop regulars are there, and store manager Sabrina and her associate, Stephanie, join in the discussion, as well. The conversation begins with DC Comics' Rebirth titles and how the quality of those stories are resonating with the gang (most of which are Marvel die-hards). That discussion leads to talk about the seemingly endless string of Big Two events and how even publishers such as IDW are seeing the need to create crossover events of their own. Other summer reading for the Collected gang includes How to Talk to Girls at Parties, Jade Street Protection Services, Bounty, Throwaways, Action Man, and Heathen (which was discussed in May's on-location episode). In addition, Sabrina also gives her take on some of the early releases she gets to read as shop manager -- e.g., Briggs Land and Black Hammer -- and Derek is appalled that at least one dedicated shop customer doesn't even know what Fables is. As is usual with the monthly on-location episodes, there's a lot of fun talk about a wide variety of comics, something to pique the interest of any Comics Alternative listener. Fri, 08 Jul 2016 14:16:37 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Summertime, and the Readin' Is Easy Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about the comics they're reading. And for the month of July, the topic of conversation is summer reading. Many of the shop regulars are there, and store manager Sabrina and her associate, Stephanie, join in the discussion, as well. The conversation begins with DC Comics' Rebirth titles and how the quality of those stories are resonating with the gang (most of which are Marvel die-hards). That discussion leads to talk about the seemingly endless string of Big Two events and how even publishers such as IDW are seeing the need to create crossover events of their own. Other summer reading for the Collected gang includes How to Talk to Girls at Parties, Jade Street Protection Services, Bounty, Throwaways, Action Man, and Heathen (which was discussed in May's on-location episode). In addition, Sabrina also gives her take on some of the early releases she gets to read as shop manager -- e.g., Briggs Land and Black Hammer -- and Derek is appalled that at least one dedicated shop customer doesn't even know what Fables is. As is usual with the monthly on-location episodes, there's a lot of fun talk about a wide variety of comics, something to pique the interest of any Comics Alternative listener. Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about the comics they're reading. And for the month of July, the topic of conversation is summer reading. Many of the shop regulars are there, and store manager Sabrina and her associate, Stephanie, join in the discussion, as well. The conversation begins with DC Comics' Rebirth titles and how the quality of those stories are resonating with the gang (most of which are Marvel die-hards). That discussion leads to talk about the seemingly endless string of Big Two events and how even publishers such as IDW are seeing the need to create crossover events of their own. Other summer reading for the Collected gang includes How to Talk to Girls at Parties, Jade Street Protection Services, Bounty, Throwaways, Action Man, and Heathen (which was discussed in May's on-location episode). In addition, Sabrina also gives her take on some of the early releases she gets to read as shop manager -- e.g., Briggs Land and Black Hammer -- and Derek is appalled that at least one dedicated shop customer doesn't even know what Fables is. As is usual with the monthly on-location episodes, there's a lot of fun talk about a wide variety of comics, something to pique the interest of any Comics Alternative listener.

]]> 4834 no Episode 195: The July Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-195-the-july-previews-catalog It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a deep dive into the latest Previews catalog. For the month of July, there's a lot for Andy and Derek to discuss. And in between speculations on solicitation-writing strategies and disagreements on how to pronounce "gyros," the guys pack as much as they can into this almost-two-hour episode. Among the many solicits they highlight are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Resident Alien: The Man with No Name #1, Aleister & Adolf, Creatures of the Night, and Ranx DC/Vertigo - Doom Patrol #1, Everafter: From the Pages of Fables #1, and Frostbite #1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Bloom County Episode XI: A New Hope, Crazy Is the New Normal, and The Return of the Zombies Image Comics - Seven to Eternity #1, Surgeon X #1, She Changed Comics, and Kill Six Billion Demons Book 1 Aardvark-Vanaheim - Cereus in Hell? #0 AfterShock - Alters #1 Ah! Comics - Moonshot: The Indigenous Comics Collection Vol. 1 Alternative Comics - After Land Vol. 1, The Short Con, and So Buttons Archie Comics - Josie and the Pussycats #1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - The Late Bloomer BOOM! Studios - Skybourne #1, Klaus, and Abigail and the Snowman Candlewick Press - Snow White and Comics Confidential: Thirteen Graphic Novelists Talk Story, Craft, and Life Drawn & Quarterly - Mooncop, Cheap Novelties: The Pleasures of Urban Decay, and Nicolas Dynamite Entertainment - The Great Divide #1 Fantagraphics Books - Love & Rockets Comics, Vol. IV #1, My Favorite Things Is Monsters, Otherworld Barbara, American Blood, Band for Life, Disillusioned Illusions, Toward a Hot Jew, and The Moolah Tree First Second - The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, Mighty Jack Vol. 1, and Varmints Kingpin Books - Fossils of Beautiful Souls and The Waltz Kodansha Comics - Attack on Titan: Colossal Edition Vol. 3, Attack on Titan Anthology, and Spoof on Titan Vol. 1 Koyama Press - Cat Rackham Locust Moon Press - The Lost Work of Will Eisner Magnetic Press/Buno - Light Metropolitan Books - The Arab of the Future: A Graphic Memoir Vol. 2: 1984-1985 NBM - Elvis Nobrow Press - Hilda and the Stone Forest Oni Press - Oh Joy Sex Toy Vol. 3 Rebellion/2000AD - Misty SelfMadeHero - Becoming Andy Warhol, Ghost Stories of Antiquary Vol. 1, and The Trial of Roger Casement Titan Comics - Pacific and Ian Fleming's James Bond: Classic Collection Vol. 1: Dr. No - 1958-1960 Toon Books - Ape & Armadillo Take Over the World Uncivilized Books - Brighter Than You Think: 10 Short Works by Alan Moore Valiant Entertainment - X-O Manowar #50 and Britannia #1 VIZ Media - One-Punch Man Vol. 8 and Goodnight Punpun Vol. 3 Z2 Comics - Carver: A Paris Story University Press of Mississippi - Peter Kuper: Conversations Wed, 06 Jul 2016 10:57:02 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal YEE-ro or GEE-ro? It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a deep dive into the latest Previews catalog. For the month of July, there's a lot for Andy and Derek to discuss. And in between speculations on solicitation-writing strategies and disagreements on how to pronounce "gyros," the guys pack as much as they can into this almost-two-hour episode. Among the many solicits they highlight are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Resident Alien: The Man with No Name #1, Aleister & Adolf, Creatures of the Night, and Ranx DC/Vertigo - Doom Patrol #1, Everafter: From the Pages of Fables #1, and Frostbite #1 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Bloom County Episode XI: A New Hope, Crazy Is the New Normal, and The Return of the Zombies Image Comics - Seven to Eternity #1, Surgeon X #1, She Changed Comics, and Kill Six Billion Demons Book 1 Aardvark-Vanaheim - Cereus in Hell? #0 AfterShock - Alters #1 Ah! Comics - Moonshot: The Indigenous Comics Collection Vol. 1 Alternative Comics - After Land Vol. 1, The Short Con, and So Buttons Archie Comics - Josie and the Pussycats #1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - The Late Bloomer BOOM! Studios - Skybourne #1, Klaus, and Abigail and the Snowman Candlewick Press - Snow White and Comics Confidential: Thirteen Graphic Novelists Talk Story, Craft, and Life Drawn & Quarterly - Mooncop, Cheap Novelties: The Pleasures of Urban Decay, and Nicolas Dynamite Entertainment - The Great Divide #1 Fantagraphics Books - Love & Rockets Comics, Vol. IV #1, My Favorite Things Is Monsters, Otherworld Barbara, American Blood, Band for Life, Disillusioned Illusions, Toward a Hot Jew, and The Moolah Tree First Second - The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo, Mighty Jack Vol. 1, and Varmints Kingpin Books - Fossils of Beautiful Souls and The Waltz Kodansha Comics - Attack on Titan: Colossal Edition Vol. 3, Attack on Titan Anthology, and Spoof on Titan Vol. 1 Koyama Press - Cat Rackham Locust Moon Press - The Lost Work of Will Eisner Magnetic Press/Buno - Light Metropolitan Books - The Arab of the Future: A Graphic Memoir Vol. 2: 1984-1985 NBM - Elvis Nobrow Press - Hilda and the Stone Forest Oni Press - Oh Joy Sex Toy Vol. 3 Rebellion/2000AD - Misty SelfMadeHero - Becoming Andy Warhol, Ghost Stories of Antiquary Vol. 1, and The Trial of Roger Casement Titan Comics - Pacific and Ian Fleming's James Bond: Classic Collection Vol. 1: Dr. No - 1958-1960 Toon Books - Ape & Armadillo Take Over the World Uncivilized Books - Brighter Than You Think: 10 Short Works by Alan Moore Valiant Entertainment - X-O Manowar #50 and Britannia #1 VIZ Media - One-Punch Man Vol. 8 and Goodnight Punpun Vol. 3 Z2 Comics - Carver: A Paris Story University Press of Mississippi - Peter Kuper: Conversations It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a deep dive into the latest Previews catalog. For the month of July, there's a lot for Andy and Derek to discuss. And in between speculations on solicitation-writing strategies and disagreements on how to pronounce "gyros," the guys pack as much as they can into this almost-two-hour episode. Among the many solicits they highlight are from publishers such as

]]> 7094 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Benjamin Frisch http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-benjamin-frisch For this interview show, Gwen and Derek talk with Benjamin Frisch about his new book from Top Shelf Productions, The Fun Family. In many ways, this is a parody of Bil and Jeff Keane's The Family Circus. The narrative concerns the family life of beloved cartoonist Robert Fun and chronicles the threads of domesticity as everything begins to unravel. Fun has a strip very much like Keane's, a family-oriented single-circular-panel daily, but Frisch doesn't demean the legendary newspaper strip or take it into obscene territory. However, there are dark places where Frisch travels, and that's much of the fun of this book. Both Gwen and Derek ask their guest about the genesis of his project, his history with newspaper dailies, and his recent experiences in the residency program, La Maison des Auteurs, in Angoulême, France. They also discuss Frisch's background in sound production and his own work in podcasting, specifically with Jessica Abel (a previous guest) and Out on the Wire. This experience with Benjamin Frisch is yet one more example of the fruitful intersection of comics and podcasting. Tue, 05 Jul 2016 13:43:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Family," Not "Home" For this interview show, Gwen and Derek talk with Benjamin Frisch about his new book from Top Shelf Productions, The Fun Family. In many ways, this is a parody of Bil and Jeff Keane's The Family Circus. The narrative concerns the family life of beloved cartoonist Robert Fun and chronicles the threads of domesticity as everything begins to unravel. Fun has a strip very much like Keane's, a family-oriented single-circular-panel daily, but Frisch doesn't demean the legendary newspaper strip or take it into obscene territory. However, there are dark places where Frisch travels, and that's much of the fun of this book. Both Gwen and Derek ask their guest about the genesis of his project, his history with newspaper dailies, and his recent experiences in the residency program, La Maison des Auteurs, in Angoulême, France. They also discuss Frisch's background in sound production and his own work in podcasting, specifically with Jessica Abel (a previous guest) and Out on the Wire. This experience with Benjamin Frisch is yet one more example of the fruitful intersection of comics and podcasting. For this interview show, Gwen and Derek talk with Benjamin Frisch about his new book from Top Shelf Productions, The Fun Family. In many ways, this is a parody of Bil and Jeff Keane's The Family Circus. The narrative concerns the family life of beloved cartoonist Robert Fun and chronicles the threads of domesticity as everything begins to unravel. Fun has a strip very much like Keane's, a family-oriented single-circular-panel daily, but Frisch doesn't demean the legendary newspaper strip or take it into obscene territory. However, there are dark places where Frisch travels, and that's much of the fun of this book. Both Gwen and Derek ask their guest about the genesis of his project, his history with newspaper dailies, and his recent experiences in the residency program, La Maison des Auteurs, in Angoulême, France. They also discuss Frisch's background in sound production and his own work in podcasting, specifically with Jessica Abel (a previous guest) and Out on the Wire. This experience with Benjamin Frisch is yet one more example of the fruitful intersection of comics and podcasting.

]]> 3724 no Euro Comics: Reviews of Irmina and Adam Sarlech: A Trilogy http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/euro-comics-reviews-of-irmina-and-adam-sarlech-a-trilogy How do the Two Guys with PhDs celebrate America's Independence Day? Why, by using the July 4th holiday to launch their brand new monthly series devoted to European comics. That's right, similar to what the podcast already does with its monthly manga, webcomics, and young readers programs, The Comics Alternative now has a new series devoted to the discussion and appreciation of European works in translation. Cohosting this monthly effort with Derek will be Edward Gauvin (a prolific translator of bandes dessinées). The guys begin by describing their plans for the new Euro comics series and laying out a rough mission statement. At the same time, they acknowledge that the format of this endeavor can take shape as it grows, and they spend a good deal of time defining their terms. They decided to call the show "Euro Comics" since it best describes what they are attempting with the series. Other potential titles, such as "Global Comics," "Bandes Dessinées," and even "BD" are limiting in one way or another, and they're not as targeted nor as accommodating as the continental designation. What's more, Edward and Derek point out that their understanding "European" is a bit flexible, as it will allow for the inclusion of translated comics produced out of other regions, such as South America, that owe an immense debt to the various European traditions. That being said, the guys jump into the core of their inaugural episode. They begin with a discussion of Barbara Yelin's Irmina (SelfMadeHero), originally published in German in 2014 and translated by Michael Waaler. As Edward describes it, Yelin's is a "Grandma, what did you do during the war?" kind of fictional narrative where she uses as a springboard her own grandmother's diaries. It's the story of a young German woman, Irmina, during the 1930s and 1940s who feels distant from, or ambivalent about, the rise of Nazism in the days leading up to the Second World War. Despite her initial resistance to the propaganda, she ends up growing accustomed to, and indirectly sanctioning, the atrocities propagated by the Third Reich. Howard, a young Barbados student studying at Oxford, functions as both a counterweight and a touchstone to Irmina's ordeal. As both Derek and Edward point out, this is a text with novelistic breadth. Next, the Two Guys take a look at Frédéric Bézian's Adam Sarlech: A Trilogy (Humanoids), a collection of three stories translated by Mark Bence and originally published in France during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Derek begins by contextualizing the book as a graphic cycle, a series of interconnected stories, each of which could stand on its own, but taken together read with more "novelistic" depth and complexity than a mere collection of short fiction. In other words, it's the comics equivalent of literary short-story cycles (or, as some have called it, composite novels). The three pieces in Adam Sarlech function in this way, where certain characters (particularly Doctor Spritzer), scenarios, and geographic setting bind everything together. This is a macabre work heavily influenced by the gothic and weird fictional touches of Edgar Allan Poe and H. P. Lovecraft. In fact, the guys describe Adam Sarlech as one of the most sophisticated and exciting books they've read this year, European and otherwise. Mon, 04 Jul 2016 16:33:09 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal European Getaway How do the Two Guys with PhDs celebrate America's Independence Day? Why, by using the July 4th holiday to launch their brand new monthly series devoted to European comics. That's right, similar to what the podcast already does with its monthly manga, webcomics, and young readers programs, The Comics Alternative now has a new series devoted to the discussion and appreciation of European works in translation. Cohosting this monthly effort with Derek will be Edward Gauvin (a prolific translator of bandes dessinées). The guys begin by describing their plans for the new Euro comics series and laying out a rough mission statement. At the same time, they acknowledge that the format of this endeavor can take shape as it grows, and they spend a good deal of time defining their terms. They decided to call the show "Euro Comics" since it best describes what they are attempting with the series. Other potential titles, such as "Global Comics," "Bandes Dessinées," and even "BD" are limiting in one way or another, and they're not as targeted nor as accommodating as the continental designation. What's more, Edward and Derek point out that their understanding "European" is a bit flexible, as it will allow for the inclusion of translated comics produced out of other regions, such as South America, that owe an immense debt to the various European traditions. That being said, the guys jump into the core of their inaugural episode. They begin with a discussion of Barbara Yelin's Irmina (SelfMadeHero), originally published in German in 2014 and translated by Michael Waaler. As Edward describes it, Yelin's is a "Grandma, what did you do during the war?" kind of fictional narrative where she uses as a springboard her own grandmother's diaries. It's the story of a young German woman, Irmina, during the 1930s and 1940s who feels distant from, or ambivalent about, the rise of Nazism in the days leading up to the Second World War. Despite her initial resistance to the propaganda, she ends up growing accustomed to, and indirectly sanctioning, the atrocities propagated by the Third Reich. Howard, a young Barbados student studying at Oxford, functions as both a counterweight and a touchstone to Irmina's ordeal. As both Derek and Edward point out, this is a text with novelistic breadth. Next, the Two Guys take a look at Frédéric Bézian's Adam Sarlech: A Trilogy (Humanoids), a collection of three stories translated by Mark Bence and originally published in France during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Derek begins by contextualizing the book as a graphic cycle, a series of interconnected stories, each of which could stand on its own, but taken together read with more "novelistic" depth and complexity than a mere collection of short fiction. In other words, it's the comics equivalent of literary short-story cycles (or, as some have called it, composite novels). The three pieces in Adam Sarlech function in this way, where certain characters (particularly Doctor Spritzer), scenarios, and geographic setting bind everything together. This is a macabre work heavily influenced by the gothic and weird fictional touches of Edgar Allan Poe and H. P. Lovecraft. In fact, the guys describe Adam Sarlech as one of the most sophisticated and exciting books they've read this year, European and otherwise. How do the Two Guys with PhDs celebrate America's Independence Day? Why, by using the July 4th holiday to launch their brand new monthly series devoted to European comics. That's right, similar to what the podcast already does with its monthly manga, webcomics, and young readers programs, The Comics Alternative now has a new series devoted to the discussion and appreciation of European works in translation. Cohosting this monthly effort with Derek will be Edward Gauvin (a prolific translator of bandes dessinées).

The guys begin by describing their plans for the new Euro comics series and laying out a rough mission statement. At the same time, they acknowledge that the format of this endeavor can take shape as it grows, and they spend a good deal of time defining their terms. They decided to call the show "Euro Comics" since it best describes what they are attempting with the series. Other potential titles, such as "Global Comics," "Bandes Dessinées," and even "BD" are limiting in one way or another, and they're not as targeted nor as accommodating as the continental designation. What's more, Edward and Derek point out that their understanding "European" is a bit flexible, as it will allow for the inclusion of translated comics produced out of other regions, such as South America, that owe an immense debt to the various European traditions.

That being said, the guys jump into the core of their inaugural episode. They begin with a discussion of Barbara Yelin's Irmina (SelfMadeHero), originally published in German in 2014 and translated by Michael Waaler. As Edward describes it, Yelin's is a "Grandma, what did you do during the war?" kind of fictional narrative where she uses as a springboard her own grandmother's diaries. It's the story of a young German woman, Irmina, during the 1930s and 1940s who feels distant from, or ambivalent about, the rise of Nazism in the days leading up to the Second World War. Despite her initial resistance to the propaganda, she ends up growing accustomed to, and indirectly sanctioning, the atrocities propagated by the Third Reich. Howard, a young Barbados student studying at Oxford, functions as both a counterweight and a touchstone to Irmina's ordeal. As both Derek and Edward point out, this is a text with novelistic breadth.

Next, the Two Guys take a look at Frédéric Bézian's Adam Sarlech: A Trilogy (Humanoids), a collection of three stories translated by Mark Bence and originally published in France during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Derek begins by contextualizing the book as a graphic cycle, a series of interconnected stories, each of which could stand on its own, but taken together read with more "novelistic" depth and complexity than a mere collection of short fiction. In other words, it's the comics equivalent of literary short-story cycles (or, as some have called it, composite novels). The three pieces in Adam Sarlech function in this way, where certain characters (particularly Doctor Spritzer), scenarios, and geographic setting bind everything together. This is a macabre work heavily influenced by the gothic and weird fictional touches of Edgar Allan Poe and H. P. Lovecraft. In fact, the guys describe Adam Sarlech as one of the most sophisticated and exciting books they've read this year, European and otherwise.

]]> 5247 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Rich Tommaso http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-rich-tommaso On this episode of the interview series, Andy and Derek talk with Rich Tommaso about his recent publications from Image Comics, She Wolf #1 and the trade collection of Dark Corridor. Both were released last week. The guys begin by trying to wrap their brains around She Wolf, a surreal lycanthrope narrative with a 1980s flair. Rich reveals that this is a planned four-issue arc, and that if the interest is there he has plans to continue and expand the story. He contrasts this publication strategy with that of his earlier series, Dark Corridor. That began as a more ambitious project with more of an ongoing storyline. But, due to the sales, he decided to wrap up the title sooner rather than later. In fact, Rich speculates that crime comics may not be a current interest with the comics-buying public, at least compared to horror and science fiction. He also suggests that autobiographical or slice-of-life comics -- as found in his earlier works, Let's Hit the Road and Pete and Miriam -- may not be his forte, and that genre stories are more his style. You'll also find in this interview a lot of talk about film, crime fiction, and the recent HeroesCon where the guys first met Rich. So whether you like your Tommaso comics plain or genre-flavored, this conversation has something for you. Fri, 01 Jul 2016 12:40:29 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Dark Stuff On this episode of the interview series, Andy and Derek talk with Rich Tommaso about his recent publications from Image Comics, She Wolf #1 and the trade collection of Dark Corridor. Both were released last week. The guys begin by trying to wrap their brains around She Wolf, a surreal lycanthrope narrative with a 1980s flair. Rich reveals that this is a planned four-issue arc, and that if the interest is there he has plans to continue and expand the story. He contrasts this publication strategy with that of his earlier series, Dark Corridor. That began as a more ambitious project with more of an ongoing storyline. But, due to the sales, he decided to wrap up the title sooner rather than later. In fact, Rich speculates that crime comics may not be a current interest with the comics-buying public, at least compared to horror and science fiction. He also suggests that autobiographical or slice-of-life comics -- as found in his earlier works, Let's Hit the Road and Pete and Miriam -- may not be his forte, and that genre stories are more his style. You'll also find in this interview a lot of talk about film, crime fiction, and the recent HeroesCon where the guys first met Rich. So whether you like your Tommaso comics plain or genre-flavored, this conversation has something for you. On this episode of the interview series, Andy and Derek talk with Rich Tommaso about his recent publications from Image Comics, She Wolf #1 and the trade collection of Dark Corridor. Both were released last week. The guys begin by trying to wrap their brains around She Wolf, a surreal lycanthrope narrative with a 1980s flair. Rich reveals that this is a planned four-issue arc, and that if the interest is there he has plans to continue and expand the story. He contrasts this publication strategy with that of his earlier series, Dark Corridor. That began as a more ambitious project with more of an ongoing storyline. But, due to the sales, he decided to wrap up the title sooner rather than later. In fact, Rich speculates that crime comics may not be a current interest with the comics-buying public, at least compared to horror and science fiction. He also suggests that autobiographical or slice-of-life comics -- as found in his earlier works, Let's Hit the Road and Pete and Miriam -- may not be his forte, and that genre stories are more his style. You'll also find in this interview a lot of talk about film, crime fiction, and the recent HeroesCon where the guys first met Rich. So whether you like your Tommaso comics plain or genre-flavored, this conversation has something for you.

]]> 3501 no Manga: Reviews of A Silent Voice and What Is Obscenity? http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-a-silent-voice-and-what-is-obscenity This month Shea and Derek look at two tonally different works of manga. They begin with Yoshitoki Oima's series, A Silent Voice, the final (seventh) volume of which was released from Kodansha Comics at the end of May. It's the story of an elementary school bully, Shoya Ishida, and his attempts to atone for his past behavior after he enters high school. The object of his ridicule was Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf transfer student who was pulled out of her elementary school because of Shoya's insensitive mocking. Now teenagers, Shoyo and Shoko establish a relationship that is spottily therapeutic for both, and with the help of their former elementary school classmates with whom they reestablish contact. While the guys both enjoy this title, there are times when the narrative is worn a little thin. Derek feels that there is excessive emotional wallowing in places, and Shea is not thrilled with the series' quick ending. A completely different kind of manga is Rokudenashiko's What Is Obscenity?: The Story of a Good for Nothing Artist and Her Pussy (Koyama Press). And the book's subtitle says it all. Rokudenashiko -- a pen name for Megumi Igarashi, and which translates into "good-for-nothing woman" -- tells the story of her evolution as an artist, her work in manko (vagina) art (or "deco-man," as she calls it), and her two 2014 arrests for violating various obscenity laws in Japan. The core of the text is its manga, three separate stories that were originally serialized in the leftist political magazine, Weekly Friday. But about a third of the book is composed of photographs and text-only supplemental material, making this more of a hybrid chronicle of Rokudenashiko's art and legal ordeals. Both Shea and Derek love this book, filled with humor and keen observations on Japan's archaic, paternalistically mandated obscenity laws. In fact, they each want to get a little Manko-chan figurine for themselves! Thu, 30 Jun 2016 13:01:23 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Pussy Riot This month Shea and Derek look at two tonally different works of manga. They begin with Yoshitoki Oima's series, A Silent Voice, the final (seventh) volume of which was released from Kodansha Comics at the end of May. It's the story of an elementary school bully, Shoya Ishida, and his attempts to atone for his past behavior after he enters high school. The object of his ridicule was Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf transfer student who was pulled out of her elementary school because of Shoya's insensitive mocking. Now teenagers, Shoyo and Shoko establish a relationship that is spottily therapeutic for both, and with the help of their former elementary school classmates with whom they reestablish contact. While the guys both enjoy this title, there are times when the narrative is worn a little thin. Derek feels that there is excessive emotional wallowing in places, and Shea is not thrilled with the series' quick ending. A completely different kind of manga is Rokudenashiko's What Is Obscenity?: The Story of a Good for Nothing Artist and Her Pussy (Koyama Press). And the book's subtitle says it all. Rokudenashiko -- a pen name for Megumi Igarashi, and which translates into "good-for-nothing woman" -- tells the story of her evolution as an artist, her work in manko (vagina) art (or "deco-man," as she calls it), and her two 2014 arrests for violating various obscenity laws in Japan. The core of the text is its manga, three separate stories that were originally serialized in the leftist political magazine, Weekly Friday. But about a third of the book is composed of photographs and text-only supplemental material, making this more of a hybrid chronicle of Rokudenashiko's art and legal ordeals. Both Shea and Derek love this book, filled with humor and keen observations on Japan's archaic, paternalistically mandated obscenity laws. In fact, they each want to get a little Manko-chan figurine for themselves! This month Shea and Derek look at two tonally different works of manga. They begin with Yoshitoki Oima's series, A Silent Voice, the final (seventh) volume of which was released from Kodansha Comics at the end of May. It's the story of an elementary school bully, Shoya Ishida, and his attempts to atone for his past behavior after he enters high school. The object of his ridicule was Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf transfer student who was pulled out of her elementary school because of Shoya's insensitive mocking. Now teenagers, Shoyo and Shoko establish a relationship that is spottily therapeutic for both, and with the help of their former elementary school classmates with whom they reestablish contact. While the guys both enjoy this title, there are times when the narrative is worn a little thin. Derek feels that there is excessive emotional wallowing in places, and Shea is not thrilled with the series' quick ending.

A completely different kind of manga is Rokudenashiko's What Is Obscenity?: The Story of a Good for Nothing Artist and Her Pussy (Koyama Press). And the book's subtitle says it all. Rokudenashiko -- a pen name for Megumi Igarashi, and which translates into "good-for-nothing woman" -- tells the story of her evolution as an artist, her work in manko (vagina) art (or "deco-man," as she calls it), and her two 2014 arrests for violating various obscenity laws in Japan. The core of the text is its manga, three separate stories that were originally serialized in the leftist political magazine, Weekly Friday. But about a third of the book is composed of photographs and text-only supplemental material, making this more of a hybrid chronicle of Rokudenashiko's art and legal ordeals. Both Shea and Derek love this book, filled with humor and keen observations on Japan's archaic, paternalistically mandated obscenity laws. In fact, they each want to get a little Manko-chan figurine for themselves!

]]> 4490 yes Episode 194: Reviews of The Odyssey of Sergeant Jack Brennan, Bird in a Cage, and Hellbound Lifestyle http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-194-reviews-of-the-odyssey-of-sergeant-jack-brennan-bird-in-a-cage-and-hellbound-lifestyle This week The Comics Alternative's blog editor, Paul Lai, joins Derek to discuss three recent titles. They begin with Bryan Doerries's The Odyssey of Sergeant Jack Brennan (Pantheon). Illustrated by a variety of artists -- Jess Ruliffson, Joëlle Jones, Justine Mara Andersen, Dylan Macon's, and Nick Bertozzi -- the book brings Homer's classic into contemporary contexts. On the eve of their return home from Afghanistan, Marine Corps sergeant Jack Brennan shares with his men the epic tale by applying it to their own lives as soldiers. Within this frame narrative, Doerries recounts Odysseus's various attempt to return home, each one illustrated by one of the book's diverse artists. Next, the Two Guys turn to a sobering narrative, Rebecca Roher's Bird in a Cage (Conundrum Press). This is an account of Roher's grandmother's dementia and resulting institutionalization, but even more so, it's the artist's memoir of her relationship with Grandma Wylie, as she is called, and the family that nurtured her. This is a moving narrative, intimately drawn, that underscores the power of community and memory when confronting adversity. After that, Paul and Derek wrap up with a more lighthearted comic, Kaeleigh Forsyth and Alabaster Pizzo's Hellbound Lifestyle (Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics). This is a humorous look at our contemporary obsession with smartphones and our need for self-validation through social media. The story takes place over a year's worth of smartphone usage, and many of the book's scenarios are laugh-out-loud funny. Some of the guys' favorites include "A Day in the Life of Hemingway's Wife(s)," "Workshopping My Stand Up Routine," and the "Sunnie Luvies Test." In this episode of the podcast, you can expect a wide range of emotional responses. Wed, 29 Jun 2016 12:10:48 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Communal Voices This week The Comics Alternative's blog editor, Paul Lai, joins Derek to discuss three recent titles. They begin with Bryan Doerries's The Odyssey of Sergeant Jack Brennan (Pantheon). Illustrated by a variety of artists -- Jess Ruliffson, Joëlle Jones, Justine Mara Andersen, Dylan Macon's, and Nick Bertozzi -- the book brings Homer's classic into contemporary contexts. On the eve of their return home from Afghanistan, Marine Corps sergeant Jack Brennan shares with his men the epic tale by applying it to their own lives as soldiers. Within this frame narrative, Doerries recounts Odysseus's various attempt to return home, each one illustrated by one of the book's diverse artists. Next, the Two Guys turn to a sobering narrative, Rebecca Roher's Bird in a Cage (Conundrum Press). This is an account of Roher's grandmother's dementia and resulting institutionalization, but even more so, it's the artist's memoir of her relationship with Grandma Wylie, as she is called, and the family that nurtured her. This is a moving narrative, intimately drawn, that underscores the power of community and memory when confronting adversity. After that, Paul and Derek wrap up with a more lighthearted comic, Kaeleigh Forsyth and Alabaster Pizzo's Hellbound Lifestyle (Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics). This is a humorous look at our contemporary obsession with smartphones and our need for self-validation through social media. The story takes place over a year's worth of smartphone usage, and many of the book's scenarios are laugh-out-loud funny. Some of the guys' favorites include "A Day in the Life of Hemingway's Wife(s)," "Workshopping My Stand Up Routine," and the "Sunnie Luvies Test." In this episode of the podcast, you can expect a wide range of emotional responses. This week The Comics Alternative's blog editor, Paul Lai, joins Derek to discuss three recent titles. They begin with Bryan Doerries's The Odyssey of Sergeant Jack Brennan (Pantheon). Illustrated by a variety of artists -- Jess Ruliffson, Joëlle Jones, Justine Mara Andersen, Dylan Macon's, and Nick Bertozzi -- the book brings Homer's classic into contemporary contexts. On the eve of their return home from Afghanistan, Marine Corps sergeant Jack Brennan shares with his men the epic tale by applying it to their own lives as soldiers. Within this frame narrative, Doerries recounts Odysseus's various attempt to return home, each one illustrated by one of the book's diverse artists.

Next, the Two Guys turn to a sobering narrative, Rebecca Roher's Bird in a Cage (Conundrum Press). This is an account of Roher's grandmother's dementia and resulting institutionalization, but even more so, it's the artist's memoir of her relationship with Grandma Wylie, as she is called, and the family that nurtured her. This is a moving narrative, intimately drawn, that underscores the power of community and memory when confronting adversity.

After that, Paul and Derek wrap up with a more lighthearted comic, Kaeleigh Forsyth and Alabaster Pizzo's Hellbound Lifestyle (Retrofit Comics/Big Planet Comics). This is a humorous look at our contemporary obsession with smartphones and our need for self-validation through social media. The story takes place over a year's worth of smartphone usage, and many of the book's scenarios are laugh-out-loud funny. Some of the guys' favorites include "A Day in the Life of Hemingway's Wife(s)," "Workshopping My Stand Up Routine," and the "Sunnie Luvies Test." In this episode of the podcast, you can expect a wide range of emotional responses.

]]> 4757 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Bill Schelly http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-bill-schelly Andy and Derek are pleased to have as a guest on their show Bill Schelly. A new edition of his book, Otto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary, was released earlier this month from North Atlantic Books. The guys talk with Bill about the legendary writer's work on the Captain Marvel and the Marvel family, his impressive run on Superman titles, and his role in the early science fiction pulps (mostly under the name he used when collaborating with his brother, Earl, Eando Binder). As they point out in the conversation, there are facets to Binder's life that are overshadowed by his work on the Big Red Cheese, and Bill's book thoroughly chronicles the sides of Otto Binder that you may not have known. Examples of this would include Binder's work at EC Comics, his writing for Jim Warren's Creepy, his close ties to comics fandom, his attempts at becoming science magazine publisher, and his later-life research on UFOs. They also discuss the darker aspects of Binder's life and the challenges he faced in his last decade. In addition to their discussion of the new Otto Binder book, the Two Guys also talk with Bill about his other works, including last year's biography of Harvey Kurtzman, his research on Joe Kubert, his upcoming book on John Stanley, and his histories of comics fandom. The guys come away from their conversation arguing that Bill Schelly's research is indispensable to comics scholars and that he continues to provide detailed and highly readable, almost novel-like, chronicles of the medium. Mon, 27 Jun 2016 14:37:45 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Holy Moley! Andy and Derek are pleased to have as a guest on their show Bill Schelly. A new edition of his book, Otto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary, was released earlier this month from North Atlantic Books. The guys talk with Bill about the legendary writer's work on the Captain Marvel and the Marvel family, his impressive run on Superman titles, and his role in the early science fiction pulps (mostly under the name he used when collaborating with his brother, Earl, Eando Binder). As they point out in the conversation, there are facets to Binder's life that are overshadowed by his work on the Big Red Cheese, and Bill's book thoroughly chronicles the sides of Otto Binder that you may not have known. Examples of this would include Binder's work at EC Comics, his writing for Jim Warren's Creepy, his close ties to comics fandom, his attempts at becoming science magazine publisher, and his later-life research on UFOs. They also discuss the darker aspects of Binder's life and the challenges he faced in his last decade. In addition to their discussion of the new Otto Binder book, the Two Guys also talk with Bill about his other works, including last year's biography of Harvey Kurtzman, his research on Joe Kubert, his upcoming book on John Stanley, and his histories of comics fandom. The guys come away from their conversation arguing that Bill Schelly's research is indispensable to comics scholars and that he continues to provide detailed and highly readable, almost novel-like, chronicles of the medium. Andy and Derek are pleased to have as a guest on their show Bill Schelly. A new edition of his book, Otto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary, was released earlier this month from North Atlantic Books. The guys talk with Bill about the legendary writer's work on the Captain Marvel and the Marvel family, his impressive run on Superman titles, and his role in the early science fiction pulps (mostly under the name he used when collaborating with his brother, Earl, Eando Binder). As they point out in the conversation, there are facets to Binder's life that are overshadowed by his work on the Big Red Cheese, and Bill's book thoroughly chronicles the sides of Otto Binder that you may not have known. Examples of this would include Binder's work at EC Comics, his writing for Jim Warren's Creepy, his close ties to comics fandom, his attempts at becoming science magazine publisher, and his later-life research on UFOs. They also discuss the darker aspects of Binder's life and the challenges he faced in his last decade. In addition to their discussion of the new Otto Binder book, the Two Guys also talk with Bill about his other works, including last year's biography of Harvey Kurtzman, his research on Joe Kubert, his upcoming book on John Stanley, and his histories of comics fandom. The guys come away from their conversation arguing that Bill Schelly's research is indispensable to comics scholars and that he continues to provide detailed and highly readable, almost novel-like, chronicles of the medium.

]]> 4258 no On Location: The Comics Canon: Reloaded!!!! Fire!!!! Panel at HeroesCon 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-comics-canon-reloaded-fire-panel-at-heroescon-2016 In the last of The Comics Alternative's four episodes created while at HeroesCon 2016, the Two Guys present a recording of panel discussion on which they participated, "The Comics Canon: Reloaded!!!! Fire!!!!" This event took place on the afternoon of Sunday, the last day of the convention, and it was organized and moderated by Andy Mansell. Others participating on the panel included Mark Englebrecht (from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Libraries), Craig Fisher (Appalachian State University), Tom Heintjes (Hogan's Alley), and Craig Yoe (Yoe! Books).  The discussants covered a lot of ground on the panel, so much so that the session lasted longer than its scheduled hour. Andy Mansell kept the conversation flowing, posing a series of questions regarding the formation, the benefits, and the liabilities of a comics canon, and there was healthy response from the audience.  A note about the sound quality of this recording: About 10 1/2 minutes into the panel recording, there is a slight break that cuts out around 30 seconds of the session. This is because the convention's sound technicians momentarily stopped the recording device so as to hook it up to the room's sound system, which would provide cleaner recording. Also, questions and comments from both Andy Mansell and the audience might not be as clear, at times, and this is because they didn't have microphones to target their voices. Be sure to check out the guys' other recordings from this year's HeroesCon: On Location: Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2016 Episode 193: Live at HeroesCon 2016 Comics Alternative Interviews: Miss Lasko-Gross and Kevin Colden Fri, 24 Jun 2016 14:57:01 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Canon Fodder In the last of The Comics Alternative's four episodes created while at HeroesCon 2016, the Two Guys present a recording of panel discussion on which they participated, "The Comics Canon: Reloaded!!!! Fire!!!!" This event took place on the afternoon of Sunday, the last day of the convention, and it was organized and moderated by Andy Mansell. Others participating on the panel included Mark Englebrecht (from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Libraries), Craig Fisher (Appalachian State University), Tom Heintjes (Hogan's Alley), and Craig Yoe (Yoe! Books).  The discussants covered a lot of ground on the panel, so much so that the session lasted longer than its scheduled hour. Andy Mansell kept the conversation flowing, posing a series of questions regarding the formation, the benefits, and the liabilities of a comics canon, and there was healthy response from the audience.  A note about the sound quality of this recording: About 10 1/2 minutes into the panel recording, there is a slight break that cuts out around 30 seconds of the session. This is because the convention's sound technicians momentarily stopped the recording device so as to hook it up to the room's sound system, which would provide cleaner recording. Also, questions and comments from both Andy Mansell and the audience might not be as clear, at times, and this is because they didn't have microphones to target their voices. Be sure to check out the guys' other recordings from this year's HeroesCon: On Location: Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2016 Episode 193: Live at HeroesCon 2016 Comics Alternative Interviews: Miss Lasko-Gross and Kevin Colden In the last of The Comics Alternative's four episodes created while at HeroesCon 2016, the Two Guys present a recording of panel discussion on which they participated, "The Comics Canon: Reloaded!!!! Fire!!!!" This event took place on the afternoon of Sunday, the last day of the convention, and it was organized and moderated by Andy Mansell. Others participating on the panel included Mark Englebrecht (from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Libraries), Craig Fisher (Appalachian State University), Tom Heintjes (Hogan's Alley), and Craig Yoe (Yoe! Books). 

The discussants covered a lot of ground on the panel, so much so that the session lasted longer than its scheduled hour. Andy Mansell kept the conversation flowing, posing a series of questions regarding the formation, the benefits, and the liabilities of a comics canon, and there was healthy response from the audience. 

A note about the sound quality of this recording: About 10 1/2 minutes into the panel recording, there is a slight break that cuts out around 30 seconds of the session. This is because the convention's sound technicians momentarily stopped the recording device so as to hook it up to the room's sound system, which would provide cleaner recording. Also, questions and comments from both Andy Mansell and the audience might not be as clear, at times, and this is because they didn't have microphones to target their voices.

Be sure to check out the guys' other recordings from this year's HeroesCon:

]]> 5868 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Miss Lasko-Gross and Kevin Colden http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-miss-lasko-gross-and-kevin-colden While Andy and Derek were at HeroesCon last weekend, they talked briefly with a variety of creators in Artists Alley -- see last Tuesday's show for those conversations -- but they also had the chance to sit down for longer, more substantive interviews. And they made it a point to do so with Miss Lasko-Gross and Kevin Colden, the creators behind the new series from Z2 Comics, The Sweetness. The first issue has just been released, so the guys had the opportunity, thanks to Miss and Kevin, to read it and ask their guests about this unique title. Miss and Kevin describe The Sweetness as a mix between Star Wars and Breaking Bad, where a group of ex-cons and low-level criminals work for a UPS-like delivery service in space...but with a focus on badass women smugglers. Derek and Andy ask specifically about the two unlikely paired female protagonists, Nelly and Scout, but they also discuss their inept male companion Bachmaan, a curious character who Miss admits to not being able to kill off, especially given the way that Kevin has drawn him. The two guests also discuss their working relationship, the benefits and challenges of being married and working on the same title. In fact, Miss and Kevin work so productively together that many times during the interview, the Two Guys just sit back and let their guests carry the back-and-forth. The result is an engaging conversation about this promising new series, one that the guys hope will be shuttling illegal cargo for a long time. Thu, 23 Jun 2016 11:16:19 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sweet While Andy and Derek were at HeroesCon last weekend, they talked briefly with a variety of creators in Artists Alley -- see last Tuesday's show for those conversations -- but they also had the chance to sit down for longer, more substantive interviews. And they made it a point to do so with Miss Lasko-Gross and Kevin Colden, the creators behind the new series from Z2 Comics, The Sweetness. The first issue has just been released, so the guys had the opportunity, thanks to Miss and Kevin, to read it and ask their guests about this unique title. Miss and Kevin describe The Sweetness as a mix between Star Wars and Breaking Bad, where a group of ex-cons and low-level criminals work for a UPS-like delivery service in space...but with a focus on badass women smugglers. Derek and Andy ask specifically about the two unlikely paired female protagonists, Nelly and Scout, but they also discuss their inept male companion Bachmaan, a curious character who Miss admits to not being able to kill off, especially given the way that Kevin has drawn him. The two guests also discuss their working relationship, the benefits and challenges of being married and working on the same title. In fact, Miss and Kevin work so productively together that many times during the interview, the Two Guys just sit back and let their guests carry the back-and-forth. The result is an engaging conversation about this promising new series, one that the guys hope will be shuttling illegal cargo for a long time. While Andy and Derek were at HeroesCon last weekend, they talked briefly with a variety of creators in Artists Alley -- see last Tuesday's show for those conversations -- but they also had the chance to sit down for longer, more substantive interviews. And they made it a point to do so with Miss Lasko-Gross and Kevin Colden, the creators behind the new series from Z2 Comics, The Sweetness. The first issue has just been released, so the guys had the opportunity, thanks to Miss and Kevin, to read it and ask their guests about this unique title. Miss and Kevin describe The Sweetness as a mix between Star Wars and Breaking Bad, where a group of ex-cons and low-level criminals work for a UPS-like delivery service in space...but with a focus on badass women smugglers. Derek and Andy ask specifically about the two unlikely paired female protagonists, Nelly and Scout, but they also discuss their inept male companion Bachmaan, a curious character who Miss admits to not being able to kill off, especially given the way that Kevin has drawn him. The two guests also discuss their working relationship, the benefits and challenges of being married and working on the same title. In fact, Miss and Kevin work so productively together that many times during the interview, the Two Guys just sit back and let their guests carry the back-and-forth. The result is an engaging conversation about this promising new series, one that the guys hope will be shuttling illegal cargo for a long time.

]]> 2881 no Episode 193: Live at HeroesCon 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-193-live-at-heroescon-2016 This past weekend, Andy and Derek attended HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, where they had a table in Artists Alley. On each of the three days of the event they recorded brief segments about their experiences at the con, the people they met, the panels they attended, and the comics they were able to find. So for this week's episode, you'll hear those recordings and get to experience the 2016 HeroesCon vicariously through the unique perspectives of the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics. Among the many things discussed are the guys' encounters with creators in Artists Alley, Andy's attempts to sell his Harley Quinn- and Suicide Squad-related comics, the unexpected physical dangers of tabling at the con, Derek's spirited find of Will Eisner reprints, the travails of trying to sell branded merchandise when you're not an artist, old racist comic books, and cosplayers who really don't give a damn what people think. But, as with last year's event, the highlight of HeroesCon 2016 was meeting dedicated fans of The Comics Alternative podcast and meeting new people who are sure to become new listeners. And during the guys' daily recordings, they talk with some of these individuals on mic.  Much thanks to the Two Guys' dedicated and lovely assistant, Zoe Royal, for helping out at the table and for taking pictures of the guys in action on the floor of Artists Alley! Wed, 22 Jun 2016 01:47:14 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Where the Action Is This past weekend, Andy and Derek attended HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, where they had a table in Artists Alley. On each of the three days of the event they recorded brief segments about their experiences at the con, the people they met, the panels they attended, and the comics they were able to find. So for this week's episode, you'll hear those recordings and get to experience the 2016 HeroesCon vicariously through the unique perspectives of the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics. Among the many things discussed are the guys' encounters with creators in Artists Alley, Andy's attempts to sell his Harley Quinn- and Suicide Squad-related comics, the unexpected physical dangers of tabling at the con, Derek's spirited find of Will Eisner reprints, the travails of trying to sell branded merchandise when you're not an artist, old racist comic books, and cosplayers who really don't give a damn what people think. But, as with last year's event, the highlight of HeroesCon 2016 was meeting dedicated fans of The Comics Alternative podcast and meeting new people who are sure to become new listeners. And during the guys' daily recordings, they talk with some of these individuals on mic.  Much thanks to the Two Guys' dedicated and lovely assistant, Zoe Royal, for helping out at the table and for taking pictures of the guys in action on the floor of Artists Alley! This past weekend, Andy and Derek attended HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, where they had a table in Artists Alley. On each of the three days of the event they recorded brief segments about their experiences at the con, the people they met, the panels they attended, and the comics they were able to find. So for this week's episode, you'll hear those recordings and get to experience the 2016 HeroesCon vicariously through the unique perspectives of the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics. Among the many things discussed are the guys' encounters with creators in Artists Alley, Andy's attempts to sell his Harley Quinn- and Suicide Squad-related comics, the unexpected physical dangers of tabling at the con, Derek's spirited find of Will Eisner reprints, the travails of trying to sell branded merchandise when you're not an artist, old racist comic books, and cosplayers who really don't give a damn what people think. But, as with last year's event, the highlight of HeroesCon 2016 was meeting dedicated fans of The Comics Alternative podcast and meeting new people who are sure to become new listeners. And during the guys' daily recordings, they talk with some of these individuals on mic. 

Much thanks to the Two Guys' dedicated and lovely assistant, Zoe Royal, for helping out at the table and for taking pictures of the guys in action on the floor of Artists Alley!

]]> 5385 no On Location: Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2016 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/in-the-first-of-four-episodes-created-at-this-years-heroescon-in-charlotte-nc-andy-and-derek-talk-with-a-variety-of-artists-writers-and-editors-wellderek-talked-with-everyone-by-his-own-admission-andy-was-a-little-lazy-sitting-back-and-letting-derek-do-al In the first of four episodes created at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Andy and Derek talk with a variety of artists, writers, and editors. Well...Derek talked with everyone. By his own admission, Andy was a little lazy, sitting back and letting Derek do all of the work with the microphone. Regardless, the result is a series of brief interviews with diverse creators, some who have been on the podcast before (such as Andy Hirsch and Ryan Browne) and others whose work the guys have just discovered. On this episode you will hear conversations with Amanda Rachels about her work, Flesh of White Karla Pacheco on her book, Inspector Pancakes, and the art of naked titty pirate comics Andy Hirsch discussing Baker Street Peculiars and his upcoming book, Varmints Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller about the future of their series, The Humans Magdelene Vasaggio on her new Black Mask series, Kim & Kim Tom Heinjes and Craig Yoe (who were tabling next to one another) about their recent Eisner Award nominations Ryan Browne on the wrap-up of God Hates Astronauts and his revamping of Blast Furnace: Recreational Thief! Andy Runton as he discusses the history of his all-age comic, Owly Enrica Jang about her love of adapting Edgar Allan Poe Oliver Ono on the Columbia College of Art and Design's comics anthology, Spitball Jeremy Haun and Jason Hurley about the reception of their Image series, The Beauty. Stay tuned over the next week for other episodes generated at the 2016 HeroesCon! Tue, 21 Jun 2016 17:56:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talk Talk In the first of four episodes created at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Andy and Derek talk with a variety of artists, writers, and editors. Well...Derek talked with everyone. By his own admission, Andy was a little lazy, sitting back and letting Derek do all of the work with the microphone. Regardless, the result is a series of brief interviews with diverse creators, some who have been on the podcast before (such as Andy Hirsch and Ryan Browne) and others whose work the guys have just discovered. On this episode you will hear conversations with Amanda Rachels about her work, Flesh of White Karla Pacheco on her book, Inspector Pancakes, and the art of naked titty pirate comics Andy Hirsch discussing Baker Street Peculiars and his upcoming book, Varmints Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller about the future of their series, The Humans Magdelene Vasaggio on her new Black Mask series, Kim & Kim Tom Heinjes and Craig Yoe (who were tabling next to one another) about their recent Eisner Award nominations Ryan Browne on the wrap-up of God Hates Astronauts and his revamping of Blast Furnace: Recreational Thief! Andy Runton as he discusses the history of his all-age comic, Owly Enrica Jang about her love of adapting Edgar Allan Poe Oliver Ono on the Columbia College of Art and Design's comics anthology, Spitball Jeremy Haun and Jason Hurley about the reception of their Image series, The Beauty. Stay tuned over the next week for other episodes generated at the 2016 HeroesCon! In the first of four episodes created at this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, NC, Andy and Derek talk with a variety of artists, writers, and editors. Well...Derek talked with everyone. By his own admission, Andy was a little lazy, sitting back and letting Derek do all of the work with the microphone. Regardless, the result is a series of brief interviews with diverse creators, some who have been on the podcast before (such as Andy Hirsch and Ryan Browne) and others whose work the guys have just discovered. On this episode you will hear conversations with

Stay tuned over the next week for other episodes generated at the 2016 HeroesCon!

]]> 6256 yes Young Readers: Reviews of Musnet, Bird Boy Vol. 1, and Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-musnet-bird-boy-vol-1-and-poppy-and-the-lost-lagoon This month, Gwen and Andy take listeners on a worldwide tour featuring adventures of various cultures in three books: Musnet: The Mouse of Monet by Kickliy (Uncivilized Books/Odod), Anne Szabla’s Bird Boy Volume 1: The Sword of Mali Mahi (Dark Horse Books), and Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon by Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt (Dark Horse Books). Before they get to the books, Andy and Gwen both regret not being able to attend HeroesCon, but Gwen gives a brief (and very interesting) report from her recent experience at the Children’s Literature Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio. Who knows? Maybe the Two People with PhDs Talking about Comics for Young Readers will both be there next year? Gwen and Andy are always excited to see more comics translated into English, and Kickliy’s Musnet: The Mouse of Monet is now available in French and English editions. Both enjoyed the leisurely storytelling and the wonderful use of color in this story of a mouse named Mus who longs to paint like a master artist. This first volume of a projected four-volume series introduces us to Mus’s world in Giverny, France, his teacher, his new friend Mya, and the world of painting. This book will appeal especially to young readers (ages 8 and up) who show an interest not just in painting, but in any of the arts. The look and pace of the book may take some getting used to for young readers, especially if this is their first venture into European comics, but the venture is certainly worth taking. Next, Gwen and Andy discuss Bird Boy Volume 1: The Sword of Mali Mahi, which began (and continues) as a webcomic by Anne Szabla. This book (suggested for ages 8-12) contains familiar elements of quest/adventure stories, yet it has the feel of something both fresh and ancient. Szabla combines elements of myth and legend from a great many sources -- Mayan, Norse, Northwest Native American, etc. -- to tell the story of Bali, a 10-year-old boy desperate to prove his worth to his tribe despite being small in stature. Although considered too little to participate in an important coming-of-age ceremony, Bali takes matters into his own hands and discovers a dangerous secret that’s been kept hidden for ages. Gwen and Andy love the story and can’t say enough about the fabulous art and use of color, yet they wish that the creator and publisher had given readers some information about the cultural influences reflected in the book. (Perhaps they will in the second volume, which comes out later this summer.) Still, Bird Boy is an exciting, unique new series that the two look forward to exploring further. Finally, Gwen and Andy could not stop singing the praises of Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon by Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt. Although suggested for ages 8-12, this is a book that can be enjoyed and appreciated by much older readers...even those with PhDs! Ten-year-old Poppy Pepperton and her legal guardian Colt Winchester are explorers working for a 4,000-year-old Egyptian pharaoh with the body of an eight-year-old boy. The pharaoh sends Poppy and Colt on an adventure that would make Indiana Jones think twice, a story filled with danger, mystery, riddles, puzzles, a flying carpet, a mummy head that talks, a creature called a gigantipus, and more! Poppy! is truly a book of wonder, reflected not only in characters we quickly come to love and care about, but also in its fantastic art and glorious use of watercolor. And although Poppy! is an enormously entertaining book filled with humor, it also speaks to issues of the environment and the preservation of natural habitats without getting preachy or didactic. It’s pretty safe to say this is one of Gwen and Andy’s favorite books so far in 2016. Mon, 20 Jun 2016 18:12:04 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Big Blue Marble This month, Gwen and Andy take listeners on a worldwide tour featuring adventures of various cultures in three books: Musnet: The Mouse of Monet by Kickliy (Uncivilized Books/Odod), Anne Szabla’s Bird Boy Volume 1: The Sword of Mali Mahi (Dark Horse Books), and Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon by Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt (Dark Horse Books). Before they get to the books, Andy and Gwen both regret not being able to attend HeroesCon, but Gwen gives a brief (and very interesting) report from her recent experience at the Children’s Literature Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio. Who knows? Maybe the Two People with PhDs Talking about Comics for Young Readers will both be there next year? Gwen and Andy are always excited to see more comics translated into English, and Kickliy’s Musnet: The Mouse of Monet is now available in French and English editions. Both enjoyed the leisurely storytelling and the wonderful use of color in this story of a mouse named Mus who longs to paint like a master artist. This first volume of a projected four-volume series introduces us to Mus’s world in Giverny, France, his teacher, his new friend Mya, and the world of painting. This book will appeal especially to young readers (ages 8 and up) who show an interest not just in painting, but in any of the arts. The look and pace of the book may take some getting used to for young readers, especially if this is their first venture into European comics, but the venture is certainly worth taking. Next, Gwen and Andy discuss Bird Boy Volume 1: The Sword of Mali Mahi, which began (and continues) as a webcomic by Anne Szabla. This book (suggested for ages 8-12) contains familiar elements of quest/adventure stories, yet it has the feel of something both fresh and ancient. Szabla combines elements of myth and legend from a great many sources -- Mayan, Norse, Northwest Native American, etc. -- to tell the story of Bali, a 10-year-old boy desperate to prove his worth to his tribe despite being small in stature. Although considered too little to participate in an important coming-of-age ceremony, Bali takes matters into his own hands and discovers a dangerous secret that’s been kept hidden for ages. Gwen and Andy love the story and can’t say enough about the fabulous art and use of color, yet they wish that the creator and publisher had given readers some information about the cultural influences reflected in the book. (Perhaps they will in the second volume, which comes out later this summer.) Still, Bird Boy is an exciting, unique new series that the two look forward to exploring further. Finally, Gwen and Andy could not stop singing the praises of Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon by Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt. Although suggested for ages 8-12, this is a book that can be enjoyed and appreciated by much older readers...even those with PhDs! Ten-year-old Poppy Pepperton and her legal guardian Colt Winchester are explorers working for a 4,000-year-old Egyptian pharaoh with the body of an eight-year-old boy. The pharaoh sends Poppy and Colt on an adventure that would make Indiana Jones think twice, a story filled with danger, mystery, riddles, puzzles, a flying carpet, a mummy head that talks, a creature called a gigantipus, and more! Poppy! is truly a book of wonder, reflected not only in characters we quickly come to love and care about, but also in its fantastic art and glorious use of watercolor. And although Poppy! is an enormously entertaining book filled with humor, it also speaks to issues of the environment and the preservation of natural habitats without getting preachy or didactic. It’s pretty safe to say this is one of Gwen and Andy’s favorite books so far in 2016. This month, Gwen and Andy take listeners on a worldwide tour featuring adventures of various cultures in three books: Musnet: The Mouse of Monet by Kickliy (Uncivilized Books/Odod), Anne Szabla’s Bird Boy Volume 1: The Sword of Mali Mahi (Dark Horse Books), and Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon by Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt (Dark Horse Books).

Before they get to the books, Andy and Gwen both regret not being able to attend HeroesCon, but Gwen gives a brief (and very interesting) report from her recent experience at the Children’s Literature Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio. Who knows? Maybe the Two People with PhDs Talking about Comics for Young Readers will both be there next year?

Gwen and Andy are always excited to see more comics translated into English, and Kickliy’s Musnet: The Mouse of Monet is now available in French and English editions. Both enjoyed the leisurely storytelling and the wonderful use of color in this story of a mouse named Mus who longs to paint like a master artist. This first volume of a projected four-volume series introduces us to Mus’s world in Giverny, France, his teacher, his new friend Mya, and the world of painting. This book will appeal especially to young readers (ages 8 and up) who show an interest not just in painting, but in any of the arts. The look and pace of the book may take some getting used to for young readers, especially if this is their first venture into European comics, but the venture is certainly worth taking.

Next, Gwen and Andy discuss Bird Boy Volume 1: The Sword of Mali Mahi, which began (and continues) as a webcomic by Anne Szabla. This book (suggested for ages 8-12) contains familiar elements of quest/adventure stories, yet it has the feel of something both fresh and ancient. Szabla combines elements of myth and legend from a great many sources -- Mayan, Norse, Northwest Native American, etc. -- to tell the story of Bali, a 10-year-old boy desperate to prove his worth to his tribe despite being small in stature. Although considered too little to participate in an important coming-of-age ceremony, Bali takes matters into his own hands and discovers a dangerous secret that’s been kept hidden for ages.

Gwen and Andy love the story and can’t say enough about the fabulous art and use of color, yet they wish that the creator and publisher had given readers some information about the cultural influences reflected in the book. (Perhaps they will in the second volume, which comes out later this summer.) Still, Bird Boy is an exciting, unique new series that the two look forward to exploring further.

Finally, Gwen and Andy could not stop singing the praises of Poppy! and the Lost Lagoon by Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt. Although suggested for ages 8-12, this is a book that can be enjoyed and appreciated by much older readers...even those with PhDs! Ten-year-old Poppy Pepperton and her legal guardian Colt Winchester are explorers working for a 4,000-year-old Egyptian pharaoh with the body of an eight-year-old boy. The pharaoh sends Poppy and Colt on an adventure that would make Indiana Jones think twice, a story filled with danger, mystery, riddles, puzzles, a flying carpet, a mummy head that talks, a creature called a gigantipus, and more!

Poppy! is truly a book of wonder, reflected not only in characters we quickly come to love and care about, but also in its fantastic art and glorious use of watercolor. And although Poppy! is an enormously entertaining book filled with humor, it also speaks to issues of the environment and the preservation of natural habitats without getting preachy or didactic. It’s pretty safe to say this is one of Gwen and Andy’s favorite books so far in 2016.

]]> 4113 no Webcomics: Reviews of The Abominable Charles Christopher, The Creepy Casefiles of Margo Maloo, and Breakfast of the Gods http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-abominable-charles-christopher-the-creepy-casefiles-of-margo-maloo-and-breakfast-of-the-gods On this month’s webcomics episode, Sean and Derek have some fun things in store. They begin with two currently ongoing titles, The Abominable Charles Christopher and The Creepy Casefiles of Margo Maloo. The former, written and drawn by Karl Kirschel, is a long-running series that has been around since June 2007. The guys discuss the webcomic’s irregular schedule — Kirschel posts updates whenever his work for DC and Marvel, especially Gotham Academy, allows — and, more importantly, the artist’s obvious love of his subject matter. Margo Maloo, a more recent webcomic, is Drew Weing’s fun all-age story about a monster-filled underworld outside of adult awareness. The June episode wraps up with a trip down memory lane. Breakfast of the Gods is a completed webcomic tapping into the history of breakfast cereals. Its creator, Brendan Douglas Jones, uses the mascots of General Mills, Kellogg’s, Post, Quaker Oats, Ralston, Nabisco, and other breakfast cereal producers for an epic tale pitting the vitamin-packed forces of good against the shadowy legions of morning nutrition. Fri, 17 Jun 2016 11:18:19 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Vitamin Filled On this month’s webcomics episode, Sean and Derek have some fun things in store. They begin with two currently ongoing titles, The Abominable Charles Christopher and The Creepy Casefiles of Margo Maloo. The former, written and drawn by Karl Kirschel, is a long-running series that has been around since June 2007. The guys discuss the webcomic’s irregular schedule — Kirschel posts updates whenever his work for DC and Marvel, especially Gotham Academy, allows — and, more importantly, the artist’s obvious love of his subject matter. Margo Maloo, a more recent webcomic, is Drew Weing’s fun all-age story about a monster-filled underworld outside of adult awareness. The June episode wraps up with a trip down memory lane. Breakfast of the Gods is a completed webcomic tapping into the history of breakfast cereals. Its creator, Brendan Douglas Jones, uses the mascots of General Mills, Kellogg’s, Post, Quaker Oats, Ralston, Nabisco, and other breakfast cereal producers for an epic tale pitting the vitamin-packed forces of good against the shadowy legions of morning nutrition. On this month’s webcomics episode, Sean and Derek have some fun things in store. They begin with two currently ongoing titles, The Abominable Charles Christopher and The Creepy Casefiles of Margo Maloo. The former, written and drawn by Karl Kirschel, is a long-running series that has been around since June 2007. The guys discuss the webcomic’s irregular schedule — Kirschel posts updates whenever his work for DC and Marvel, especially Gotham Academy, allows — and, more importantly, the artist’s obvious love of his subject matter. Margo Maloo, a more recent webcomic, is Drew Weing’s fun all-age story about a monster-filled underworld outside of adult awareness.

The June episode wraps up with a trip down memory lane. Breakfast of the Gods is a completed webcomic tapping into the history of breakfast cereals. Its creator, Brendan Douglas Jones, uses the mascots of General Mills, Kellogg’s, Post, Quaker Oats, Ralston, Nabisco, and other breakfast cereal producers for an epic tale pitting the vitamin-packed forces of good against the shadowy legions of morning nutrition.

]]> 5396 no Episode 192: Reviews of Limbo, Weird Detective #1, and Control #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-192-reviews-of-limbo-weird-detective-1-and-control-1 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back to give you another ear-full of good quality comics talk, and this week the focus is on noir weirdness. They begin with the collected trade edition of Limbo (Image Comics). Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard's six-issue limited series ran from November 2015 to April of this year, but last week the TPB was released. It's the story of Clay, a cynical and world-worn detective who finds himself stuck in a strange world whose origins are a mystery. Andy W. and Derek liken this book to a voodoo-infused version of Videodrome, and the guys are particularly struck by by Wijngaard's neon palette and his occasional metafictional page layouts. And while Limbo injects more than enough weirdness into its noir, it's easily rivaled by the Lovecraftian flair of Fred Van Lent and Guiu Vilanova's Weird Detective #1 (Dark Horse Comics). The first issue in this miniseries introduces us to Detective Sebastian Greene, a heretofore mundane investigator whose recent display of uncanny abilities at detecting confound his partner, Sana Fayez, and their superiors. The strangeness is compounded by a string of unusual crimes that are sure to appeal to fans of the Great Old Ones. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a more conventional noir narrative, Andy Diggle, Angela Cruickshank, and Andrea Mutti's Control #1 (Dynamite Entertainment). While this one doesn't have the genre-bending, otherworldly twists of this week's other titles, it nonetheless concerns an unfathomable dark region. Not electric voodoo or Cthulhu, but Washington, D.C. politics. At least that's what the guys gather from this first installment in this six-issue series. As Andy and Derek point out, Diggle is an old hat at this kind of storytelling, and this helps explain why Control is perhaps the most tightly woven narrative they look at this week. And from the information found on the copyright page, this looks like a series with a promise of multiple volumes, something akin to Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal. At least the Two Guys hope. Wed, 15 Jun 2016 11:04:43 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Well-Handled Weirdness The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back to give you another ear-full of good quality comics talk, and this week the focus is on noir weirdness. They begin with the collected trade edition of Limbo (Image Comics). Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard's six-issue limited series ran from November 2015 to April of this year, but last week the TPB was released. It's the story of Clay, a cynical and world-worn detective who finds himself stuck in a strange world whose origins are a mystery. Andy W. and Derek liken this book to a voodoo-infused version of Videodrome, and the guys are particularly struck by by Wijngaard's neon palette and his occasional metafictional page layouts. And while Limbo injects more than enough weirdness into its noir, it's easily rivaled by the Lovecraftian flair of Fred Van Lent and Guiu Vilanova's Weird Detective #1 (Dark Horse Comics). The first issue in this miniseries introduces us to Detective Sebastian Greene, a heretofore mundane investigator whose recent display of uncanny abilities at detecting confound his partner, Sana Fayez, and their superiors. The strangeness is compounded by a string of unusual crimes that are sure to appeal to fans of the Great Old Ones. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a more conventional noir narrative, Andy Diggle, Angela Cruickshank, and Andrea Mutti's Control #1 (Dynamite Entertainment). While this one doesn't have the genre-bending, otherworldly twists of this week's other titles, it nonetheless concerns an unfathomable dark region. Not electric voodoo or Cthulhu, but Washington, D.C. politics. At least that's what the guys gather from this first installment in this six-issue series. As Andy and Derek point out, Diggle is an old hat at this kind of storytelling, and this helps explain why Control is perhaps the most tightly woven narrative they look at this week. And from the information found on the copyright page, this looks like a series with a promise of multiple volumes, something akin to Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal. At least the Two Guys hope. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back to give you another ear-full of good quality comics talk, and this week the focus is on noir weirdness. They begin with the collected trade edition of Limbo (Image Comics). Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard's six-issue limited series ran from November 2015 to April of this year, but last week the TPB was released. It's the story of Clay, a cynical and world-worn detective who finds himself stuck in a strange world whose origins are a mystery. Andy W. and Derek liken this book to a voodoo-infused version of Videodrome, and the guys are particularly struck by by Wijngaard's neon palette and his occasional metafictional page layouts.

And while Limbo injects more than enough weirdness into its noir, it's easily rivaled by the Lovecraftian flair of Fred Van Lent and Guiu Vilanova's Weird Detective #1 (Dark Horse Comics). The first issue in this miniseries introduces us to Detective Sebastian Greene, a heretofore mundane investigator whose recent display of uncanny abilities at detecting confound his partner, Sana Fayez, and their superiors. The strangeness is compounded by a string of unusual crimes that are sure to appeal to fans of the Great Old Ones.

Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a more conventional noir narrative, Andy Diggle, Angela Cruickshank, and Andrea Mutti's Control #1 (Dynamite Entertainment). While this one doesn't have the genre-bending, otherworldly twists of this week's other titles, it nonetheless concerns an unfathomable dark region. Not electric voodoo or Cthulhu, but Washington, D.C. politics. At least that's what the guys gather from this first installment in this six-issue series. As Andy and Derek point out, Diggle is an old hat at this kind of storytelling, and this helps explain why Control is perhaps the most tightly woven narrative they look at this week. And from the information found on the copyright page, this looks like a series with a promise of multiple volumes, something akin to Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal. At least the Two Guys hope.

]]> 4204 no Episode 191: Reviews of Dark Night: A True Batman Story, Midnight of the Soul #1, and The Experts http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-190-reviews-of-dark-night-a-true-batman-story-midnight-of-the-soul-1-and-the-experts Buckle up, because Andy and Derek are back behind the wheel. On this week's trip, they're taking you down a road that includes three very different titles. They begin with Paul Dini and Eduardo Risso's Dark Night: A True Batman Story (Vertigo Comics)...and yes, you did read correctly, the guys are discussing a book with "Batman" in its title. But while the Caped Crusader is a prominent part of the story, this isn't a standard superhero narrative, but an autobiographical account of a traumatic event in Dini's life. The guys discuss the manner of Dini's narration, especially as it's represented by Risso's art. In fact, it's the latter that consumes much of the conversation, as they highlight Risso's diversity of style to reflect shifts in the storytelling. Next they look at the first in a five-issue limited series from Howard Chaykin, Midnight of the Soul (Image Comics). This is a story that Chaykin has been wanting to tell for some time, and the guys are happy to see it finally coming to fruition. It's the tale of Joel, a wannabe writer who is emotionally scarred from the fighting in Germany during the closing days of World War II. In this first issue, Joel discovers that his wife is living a double life, and both Derek and Andy comment on the signature Chaykin elements in the story, including someone getting shot in the head in the middle of a blowjob. But there's more than just sex and violence in this comic. As the guys reveal, they're impressed by the tightly woven elements within the premise, the visual patterns and rhythms that Chaykin establishes at the outset, and in anticipation (they hope) of big narrative payoff. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a recent publication from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, Sophie Franz's The Experts. This is a short one-shot that blends horror with the fantastic. In the story, a group of individuals, the experts, are studying a mysterious group of aquatic humanoids while their experiences doing so are slowly pulling them apart. This is the first time either Derek or Andy have encountered Franz's art, but they like what they see and call it one of the most notable titles they've read this year. But then again, this is the kind of comic they have come to expect from Retrofit/Big Planet. Wed, 08 Jun 2016 03:15:18 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Space Nazi Celebration Buckle up, because Andy and Derek are back behind the wheel. On this week's trip, they're taking you down a road that includes three very different titles. They begin with Paul Dini and Eduardo Risso's Dark Night: A True Batman Story (Vertigo Comics)...and yes, you did read correctly, the guys are discussing a book with "Batman" in its title. But while the Caped Crusader is a prominent part of the story, this isn't a standard superhero narrative, but an autobiographical account of a traumatic event in Dini's life. The guys discuss the manner of Dini's narration, especially as it's represented by Risso's art. In fact, it's the latter that consumes much of the conversation, as they highlight Risso's diversity of style to reflect shifts in the storytelling. Next they look at the first in a five-issue limited series from Howard Chaykin, Midnight of the Soul (Image Comics). This is a story that Chaykin has been wanting to tell for some time, and the guys are happy to see it finally coming to fruition. It's the tale of Joel, a wannabe writer who is emotionally scarred from the fighting in Germany during the closing days of World War II. In this first issue, Joel discovers that his wife is living a double life, and both Derek and Andy comment on the signature Chaykin elements in the story, including someone getting shot in the head in the middle of a blowjob. But there's more than just sex and violence in this comic. As the guys reveal, they're impressed by the tightly woven elements within the premise, the visual patterns and rhythms that Chaykin establishes at the outset, and in anticipation (they hope) of big narrative payoff. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a recent publication from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, Sophie Franz's The Experts. This is a short one-shot that blends horror with the fantastic. In the story, a group of individuals, the experts, are studying a mysterious group of aquatic humanoids while their experiences doing so are slowly pulling them apart. This is the first time either Derek or Andy have encountered Franz's art, but they like what they see and call it one of the most notable titles they've read this year. But then again, this is the kind of comic they have come to expect from Retrofit/Big Planet. Buckle up, because Andy and Derek are back behind the wheel. On this week's trip, they're taking you down a road that includes three very different titles. They begin with Paul Dini and Eduardo Risso's Dark Night: A True Batman Story (Vertigo Comics)...and yes, you did read correctly, the guys are discussing a book with "Batman" in its title. But while the Caped Crusader is a prominent part of the story, this isn't a standard superhero narrative, but an autobiographical account of a traumatic event in Dini's life. The guys discuss the manner of Dini's narration, especially as it's represented by Risso's art. In fact, it's the latter that consumes much of the conversation, as they highlight Risso's diversity of style to reflect shifts in the storytelling.

Next they look at the first in a five-issue limited series from Howard Chaykin, Midnight of the Soul (Image Comics). This is a story that Chaykin has been wanting to tell for some time, and the guys are happy to see it finally coming to fruition. It's the tale of Joel, a wannabe writer who is emotionally scarred from the fighting in Germany during the closing days of World War II. In this first issue, Joel discovers that his wife is living a double life, and both Derek and Andy comment on the signature Chaykin elements in the story, including someone getting shot in the head in the middle of a blowjob. But there's more than just sex and violence in this comic. As the guys reveal, they're impressed by the tightly woven elements within the premise, the visual patterns and rhythms that Chaykin establishes at the outset, and in anticipation (they hope) of big narrative payoff.

Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a recent publication from Retrofit/Big Planet Comics, Sophie Franz's The Experts. This is a short one-shot that blends horror with the fantastic. In the story, a group of individuals, the experts, are studying a mysterious group of aquatic humanoids while their experiences doing so are slowly pulling them apart. This is the first time either Derek or Andy have encountered Franz's art, but they like what they see and call it one of the most notable titles they've read this year. But then again, this is the kind of comic they have come to expect from Retrofit/Big Planet.

]]> 4793 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Josh Simmons http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-josh-simmons The second volume of Josh Simmons's Jessica Farm was released recently from Fantagraphics, and now the artist takes the time to talk with Derek for another Comics Alternative interview. In the conversation, Josh shares his ideas behind Jessica Farm and the long, involved process of its creation. Beginning in January 2000, he began drawing one page a month with plans for publishing a collection of his efforts every eight years, and then doing all of this over a fifty-year span. What's more, he plans to reissue the previous volumes of Jessica Farm each time he publishes a current volume. For example, the first installment of Jessica Farm was published in 2008, but Fantagraphic re-released that book, and in a new edition, along with this year's Jessica Farm, Vol. 2 so that the design of the two books matched. Josh explains that he wants to do this about every eight years so as to offer new editions that will reflect current design and publication practices. As a result, this long and evolving narrative is not just a curious and episodic fantasy tale, but also an exercise in creative process that underscores the materiality of his project. But the conversation isn't just limited to Josh's current work. The guys spend a lot of time talking about last year's Black River, his 2007 graphic novel House, his early Top Shelf series Happy, and especially his provocative collection The Furry Trap. In fact, Derek spends much of the interview asking Josh about the stories in the latter, most of which have an edge and intensity not found in the longer-form comics. This leads to a conversation on Josh's different styles of storytelling, short-story versus long-form, and the kind of reactions he's received on some of his more explicit work. Along the way, Derek educates Josh on Doctor Who, and Josh introduces Derek to a variety of foreign films. A smart and educational conversation all the way 'round! Mon, 06 Jun 2016 13:09:37 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Creepy The second volume of Josh Simmons's Jessica Farm was released recently from Fantagraphics, and now the artist takes the time to talk with Derek for another Comics Alternative interview. In the conversation, Josh shares his ideas behind Jessica Farm and the long, involved process of its creation. Beginning in January 2000, he began drawing one page a month with plans for publishing a collection of his efforts every eight years, and then doing all of this over a fifty-year span. What's more, he plans to reissue the previous volumes of Jessica Farm each time he publishes a current volume. For example, the first installment of Jessica Farm was published in 2008, but Fantagraphic re-released that book, and in a new edition, along with this year's Jessica Farm, Vol. 2 so that the design of the two books matched. Josh explains that he wants to do this about every eight years so as to offer new editions that will reflect current design and publication practices. As a result, this long and evolving narrative is not just a curious and episodic fantasy tale, but also an exercise in creative process that underscores the materiality of his project. But the conversation isn't just limited to Josh's current work. The guys spend a lot of time talking about last year's Black River, his 2007 graphic novel House, his early Top Shelf series Happy, and especially his provocative collection The Furry Trap. In fact, Derek spends much of the interview asking Josh about the stories in the latter, most of which have an edge and intensity not found in the longer-form comics. This leads to a conversation on Josh's different styles of storytelling, short-story versus long-form, and the kind of reactions he's received on some of his more explicit work. Along the way, Derek educates Josh on Doctor Who, and Josh introduces Derek to a variety of foreign films. A smart and educational conversation all the way 'round! The second volume of Josh Simmons's Jessica Farm was released recently from Fantagraphics, and now the artist takes the time to talk with Derek for another Comics Alternative interview. In the conversation, Josh shares his ideas behind Jessica Farm and the long, involved process of its creation. Beginning in January 2000, he began drawing one page a month with plans for publishing a collection of his efforts every eight years, and then doing all of this over a fifty-year span. What's more, he plans to reissue the previous volumes of Jessica Farm each time he publishes a current volume. For example, the first installment of Jessica Farm was published in 2008, but Fantagraphic re-released that book, and in a new edition, along with this year's Jessica Farm, Vol. 2 so that the design of the two books matched. Josh explains that he wants to do this about every eight years so as to offer new editions that will reflect current design and publication practices. As a result, this long and evolving narrative is not just a curious and episodic fantasy tale, but also an exercise in creative process that underscores the materiality of his project.

But the conversation isn't just limited to Josh's current work. The guys spend a lot of time talking about last year's Black River, his 2007 graphic novel House, his early Top Shelf series Happy, and especially his provocative collection The Furry Trap. In fact, Derek spends much of the interview asking Josh about the stories in the latter, most of which have an edge and intensity not found in the longer-form comics. This leads to a conversation on Josh's different styles of storytelling, short-story versus long-form, and the kind of reactions he's received on some of his more explicit work. Along the way, Derek educates Josh on Doctor Who, and Josh introduces Derek to a variety of foreign films. A smart and educational conversation all the way 'round!

]]> 4441 yes Comics Alternative Interviews: Zach Worton http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-zach-worton In this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Derek talks with Zach Worton about his new book, The Search for Charley Butters, just out from Conundrum Press. This is the second in a planned trilogy, and one beginning with last year's The Disappearance of Charley Butters. As Zach describes it, this is a black comedy about depression and the way this condition manifests itself in isolation, addiction, and failed friendships. The narrative runs along two parallel tracks, one about the titular character, a painter from the 1950s who becomes an eccentric recluse, and the other about the present-day Travis who becomes obsessed with Butters's story as revealed in his diaries. This obsession begins to break down the relationships in Travis's life, and as the story unfolds he finds himself going to a personal dark place that is not entirely dissimilar from that the artist's. Zach talks with Derek about origins of this project, his reasons for serializing it over three volumes, and his rough plans for wrapping it up with next year's The Death of Charley Butters. The guys also discuss Zach's first book, The Klondike, a completely different kind of narrative that episodically chronicles the gold rush that shook the Yukon during the last part of the nineteenth century. Zach shares his experiences researching the book and how it helped define him, for awhile at least, as a cartoonist of Canadian history and personages (similar to the way people read David Collier or how some may have defined Chester Brown after Louis Reil). They also discuss Zach's other current project, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner (a horror-inspired tale that will be released around Halloween), his love of old drive-in movie theaters, and his band, Zorton and the Cannibals. And, interestingly enough, it's with a group of musicians that the Charley Butters trilogy begins! Fri, 03 Jun 2016 13:37:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Dark Places In this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Derek talks with Zach Worton about his new book, The Search for Charley Butters, just out from Conundrum Press. This is the second in a planned trilogy, and one beginning with last year's The Disappearance of Charley Butters. As Zach describes it, this is a black comedy about depression and the way this condition manifests itself in isolation, addiction, and failed friendships. The narrative runs along two parallel tracks, one about the titular character, a painter from the 1950s who becomes an eccentric recluse, and the other about the present-day Travis who becomes obsessed with Butters's story as revealed in his diaries. This obsession begins to break down the relationships in Travis's life, and as the story unfolds he finds himself going to a personal dark place that is not entirely dissimilar from that the artist's. Zach talks with Derek about origins of this project, his reasons for serializing it over three volumes, and his rough plans for wrapping it up with next year's The Death of Charley Butters. The guys also discuss Zach's first book, The Klondike, a completely different kind of narrative that episodically chronicles the gold rush that shook the Yukon during the last part of the nineteenth century. Zach shares his experiences researching the book and how it helped define him, for awhile at least, as a cartoonist of Canadian history and personages (similar to the way people read David Collier or how some may have defined Chester Brown after Louis Reil). They also discuss Zach's other current project, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner (a horror-inspired tale that will be released around Halloween), his love of old drive-in movie theaters, and his band, Zorton and the Cannibals. And, interestingly enough, it's with a group of musicians that the Charley Butters trilogy begins! In this episode of The Comics Alternative's interview series, Derek talks with Zach Worton about his new book, The Search for Charley Butters, just out from Conundrum Press. This is the second in a planned trilogy, and one beginning with last year's The Disappearance of Charley Butters. As Zach describes it, this is a black comedy about depression and the way this condition manifests itself in isolation, addiction, and failed friendships. The narrative runs along two parallel tracks, one about the titular character, a painter from the 1950s who becomes an eccentric recluse, and the other about the present-day Travis who becomes obsessed with Butters's story as revealed in his diaries. This obsession begins to break down the relationships in Travis's life, and as the story unfolds he finds himself going to a personal dark place that is not entirely dissimilar from that the artist's. Zach talks with Derek about origins of this project, his reasons for serializing it over three volumes, and his rough plans for wrapping it up with next year's The Death of Charley Butters. The guys also discuss Zach's first book, The Klondike, a completely different kind of narrative that episodically chronicles the gold rush that shook the Yukon during the last part of the nineteenth century. Zach shares his experiences researching the book and how it helped define him, for awhile at least, as a cartoonist of Canadian history and personages (similar to the way people read David Collier or how some may have defined Chester Brown after Louis Reil). They also discuss Zach's other current project, The Weird World of Lagoola Gardner (a horror-inspired tale that will be released around Halloween), his love of old drive-in movie theaters, and his band, Zorton and the Cannibals. And, interestingly enough, it's with a group of musicians that the Charley Butters trilogy begins!

]]> 3613 no Episode 190: The June Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-190-the-june-previews-catalog It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time, once again, for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a conversational stroll through the latest Previews catalog. For the month of June, there is an inordinately large number of notable titles for Derek and Andy W. to discuss, making this a longer-than-average episode (a little over two hours). So strap in and get ready to boogie! Among the many solicits they highlight are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Briggs Land #1, Lady Killer 2 #1, Moebius Library: The World of Edena, and Terminal City: Library Edition DC/Vertigo - The Hellblazer #1 and Survivors' Club IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - The Adventures of Augusta Wind, Vol. 2 #1, Superf*ckers Forever #1, The Killer Inside Me #1, March: Book 3, and Ditko Unleashed Image Comics - The Black Monday Murders #1, Kill or Be Killed #1, Demonic #1, Prince of Cats, and Solstice Abstract Studios - Rachel Rising Omnibus AfterShock - Animosity #1 Alternative Comics - 23 Skidoo, At the Shore, Fancy Froglin Uncensored, and Vile #2 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Hellbound: Lifestyle BOOM! Studios - Backstagers #1 and Thomas Alsop, Vol. 2 Dover Publications - Sam Glanzman's Attu: The Collected Volumes Drawn & Quarterly - The Greatest of Marlys Fantagraphics Books - We Told You So: Comics as Art, Spanish Fever, Growing Up in Public, The Longest Day of the Future, Cosplayers, and Blubber #3 First Second - Bera the One-Headed Troll, Friends Is Friends, and Secret Coders, Vol. 2: Paths and Portals Graphix - Ghosts Liveright - Cousin Joseph Microcosm Publishing - Manor Threat: Snakepit Comics 2013-2015 NBM - Equinoxes and Bubbles and Gondola Oni Press - Jeff Steinberg #1 and Oh Joy Sex Toy, Vols. 1 and 2 Shambhala - Bushido: The Soul of the Samurai T Pub - Turncoat Titan Comics - Doctor Who: The Third Doctor #1, The Best of Shoe, Vol. 1, and Flash Gordon Dailies: Dan Barry, Vol. 2 University Press of Mississippi - Forging the Past: Seth and the Art of Memory and The Comics of Hergé: When the Lines Are Not So Clear Andy and Derek also discuss the new Goodreads reading group The Comics Alternative is setting up, and they ask listeners for their input in how they'd like to use that social media platform. They also share some audience feedback and encourage everyone to go to the podcast's iTunes page to leave a rating and review, if they haven't already.  In other words, do your part for The Comics Alternative! Wed, 01 Jun 2016 13:19:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wallet-Busting Goodness It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time, once again, for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a conversational stroll through the latest Previews catalog. For the month of June, there is an inordinately large number of notable titles for Derek and Andy W. to discuss, making this a longer-than-average episode (a little over two hours). So strap in and get ready to boogie! Among the many solicits they highlight are from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Briggs Land #1, Lady Killer 2 #1, Moebius Library: The World of Edena, and Terminal City: Library Edition DC/Vertigo - The Hellblazer #1 and Survivors' Club IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - The Adventures of Augusta Wind, Vol. 2 #1, Superf*ckers Forever #1, The Killer Inside Me #1, March: Book 3, and Ditko Unleashed Image Comics - The Black Monday Murders #1, Kill or Be Killed #1, Demonic #1, Prince of Cats, and Solstice Abstract Studios - Rachel Rising Omnibus AfterShock - Animosity #1 Alternative Comics - 23 Skidoo, At the Shore, Fancy Froglin Uncensored, and Vile #2 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Hellbound: Lifestyle BOOM! Studios - Backstagers #1 and Thomas Alsop, Vol. 2 Dover Publications - Sam Glanzman's Attu: The Collected Volumes Drawn & Quarterly - The Greatest of Marlys Fantagraphics Books - We Told You So: Comics as Art, Spanish Fever, Growing Up in Public, The Longest Day of the Future, Cosplayers, and Blubber #3 First Second - Bera the One-Headed Troll, Friends Is Friends, and Secret Coders, Vol. 2: Paths and Portals Graphix - Ghosts Liveright - Cousin Joseph Microcosm Publishing - Manor Threat: Snakepit Comics 2013-2015 NBM - Equinoxes and Bubbles and Gondola Oni Press - Jeff Steinberg #1 and Oh Joy Sex Toy, Vols. 1 and 2 Shambhala - Bushido: The Soul of the Samurai T Pub - Turncoat Titan Comics - Doctor Who: The Third Doctor #1, The Best of Shoe, Vol. 1, and Flash Gordon Dailies: Dan Barry, Vol. 2 University Press of Mississippi - Forging the Past: Seth and the Art of Memory and The Comics of Hergé: When the Lines Are Not So Clear Andy and Derek also discuss the new Goodreads reading group The Comics Alternative is setting up, and they ask listeners for their input in how they'd like to use that social media platform. They also share some audience feedback and encourage everyone to go to the podcast's iTunes page to leave a rating and review, if they haven't already.  In other words, do your part for The Comics Alternative! It's the first of the month, and that must mean that it's time, once again, for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a conversational stroll through the latest Previews catalog. For the month of June, there is an inordinately large number of notable titles for Derek and Andy W. to discuss, making this a longer-than-average episode (a little over two hours). So strap in and get ready to boogie! Among the many solicits they highlight are from publishers such as

Andy and Derek also discuss the new Goodreads reading group The Comics Alternative is setting up, and they ask listeners for their input in how they'd like to use that social media platform. They also share some audience feedback and encourage everyone to go to the podcast's iTunes page to leave a rating and review, if they haven't already.  In other words, do your part for The Comics Alternative!

]]> 7577 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Jeremy Sorese http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jeremy-sorese On this interview show, Andy W. and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Jeremy Sorese. His book, Curveball, was published by Nobrow Press in late 2015, but it's up this year for a Lambda Literary Award in the "LGBT Graphic Novels" category. Those award winners will be announced in June, and the guys talk with Jeremy about the attention that Curveball has been receiving. This is his first long-form comic, and Jeremy describes it as a queer sci-fi romance. The story takes place in an indeterminate future, but the generic elements take a backseat to character relationships. At the same time, Jeremy talks with the guys about how science fiction is an appropriate platform to explore facets of identity. Derek and Andy also ask their guest about the series for which he's more popularly known, Stephen Universe, and the other work he's done for BOOM! Studios. They also discuss his interests in short narratives, the unbelievable mileage he's gotten out of his early comic, "Love Me Forever! Oh! Oh! Oh!", and what projects he's working on currently. Tue, 31 May 2016 13:07:44 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Orange Is the New Black On this interview show, Andy W. and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Jeremy Sorese. His book, Curveball, was published by Nobrow Press in late 2015, but it's up this year for a Lambda Literary Award in the "LGBT Graphic Novels" category. Those award winners will be announced in June, and the guys talk with Jeremy about the attention that Curveball has been receiving. This is his first long-form comic, and Jeremy describes it as a queer sci-fi romance. The story takes place in an indeterminate future, but the generic elements take a backseat to character relationships. At the same time, Jeremy talks with the guys about how science fiction is an appropriate platform to explore facets of identity. Derek and Andy also ask their guest about the series for which he's more popularly known, Stephen Universe, and the other work he's done for BOOM! Studios. They also discuss his interests in short narratives, the unbelievable mileage he's gotten out of his early comic, "Love Me Forever! Oh! Oh! Oh!", and what projects he's working on currently. On this interview show, Andy W. and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Jeremy Sorese. His book, Curveball, was published by Nobrow Press in late 2015, but it's up this year for a Lambda Literary Award in the "LGBT Graphic Novels" category. Those award winners will be announced in June, and the guys talk with Jeremy about the attention that Curveball has been receiving. This is his first long-form comic, and Jeremy describes it as a queer sci-fi romance. The story takes place in an indeterminate future, but the generic elements take a backseat to character relationships. At the same time, Jeremy talks with the guys about how science fiction is an appropriate platform to explore facets of identity. Derek and Andy also ask their guest about the series for which he's more popularly known, Stephen Universe, and the other work he's done for BOOM! Studios. They also discuss his interests in short narratives, the unbelievable mileage he's gotten out of his early comic, "Love Me Forever! Oh! Oh! Oh!", and what projects he's working on currently.

]]> 3189 no Manga: Reviews of Cigarette Girl and Mysterious Girlfriend X, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-cigarette-girl-and-mysterious-girlfriend-x-vol-1 For the month of May, Shea and Derek discuss two books that, at first glance, seem quite different, but whose similarities become more apparent upon closer examination. They begin with Masahiko Matsumoto's Cigarette Girl (Top Shelf Productions), a collection of eleven short comics originally published between 1972 and 1974. This is one of the few books by Matsumoto available in English -- another translation, The Man Next Door, was published by Breakdown Press in 2014 -- and the guys strongly advocate for more attention on this mangaka. Shea and Derek recall their earlier discussion of Yoshihiro Tatsumi’s A Drifting Life, where the figure of Matsumoto is central to Tatsumi's autobiographical narrative. The stories in Cigarette Girl demonstrate the artist's style storytelling, which he referred to as "komaga" (or "panel pictures" in English), with its emphasis on a cinema-influenced panel breakdown and a more adult subject matter. Along with this, all of the stories end ambiguously or "obscurely," without any neat resolution or closure, underscoring the mature and real-life tone found in Matsumoto's work. About all of the pieces in this collection have something to do with , complicated, compromised, or unrequited relationships, with Matsumoto writing from both male and female perspectives.  And it is this theme where Derek and Shea find the common ground with the other book they discuss this month, Riichi Ueshiba's Mysterious Girlfriend X, Vol. 1 (Vertical Comics). This story has everything to do with relationships, but, as the guys point out, it has perhaps the weirdest premise they've encountered on the manga series so far. The narrative's 17-year-old protagonist and focalizer, Akira Tsubaki, becomes addicted to his new love interest -- literally! -- after tasting some of her drool. He gets sick if he goes without a dose of her saliva every day or so. His drool-defined heartthrob, Mikoto Urabe, is a complete enigma, a mystery made all the more confounding by her hobby of scissor play. Urabe has an uncanny ability to cut quickly and precisely almost any material with her scissors, which she carries holster-like in her panties. In fact, it's the "panty part" of this book that receives much of the guys' attention. Shea and Derek aren't exactly sure what to make of Ueshiba's fascination with older teenage girls' bodies, or the fact that he finds certain "cute" acts so alluring. As the artist summarizes at the end of this first volume, "Don't you think a girl who drools when she falls asleep is cute? Well, this is a comic about that sort of girl." Still, the guys never suggest that Ueshiba is any sort of creepy pedophile, and, in fact, they even see the benefits of setting his particular story within a high school milieu. Be that as it may, Mysterious Girlfriend X has to be one of the most head-scratching stories Shea and Derek have encounter in some time, and, along with Cigarette Girl, provides them with much discussion fodder for this month's episode. Mon, 30 May 2016 15:47:43 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Panty Scissors For the month of May, Shea and Derek discuss two books that, at first glance, seem quite different, but whose similarities become more apparent upon closer examination. They begin with Masahiko Matsumoto's Cigarette Girl (Top Shelf Productions), a collection of eleven short comics originally published between 1972 and 1974. This is one of the few books by Matsumoto available in English -- another translation, The Man Next Door, was published by Breakdown Press in 2014 -- and the guys strongly advocate for more attention on this mangaka. Shea and Derek recall their earlier discussion of Yoshihiro Tatsumi’s A Drifting Life, where the figure of Matsumoto is central to Tatsumi's autobiographical narrative. The stories in Cigarette Girl demonstrate the artist's style storytelling, which he referred to as "komaga" (or "panel pictures" in English), with its emphasis on a cinema-influenced panel breakdown and a more adult subject matter. Along with this, all of the stories end ambiguously or "obscurely," without any neat resolution or closure, underscoring the mature and real-life tone found in Matsumoto's work. About all of the pieces in this collection have something to do with , complicated, compromised, or unrequited relationships, with Matsumoto writing from both male and female perspectives.  And it is this theme where Derek and Shea find the common ground with the other book they discuss this month, Riichi Ueshiba's Mysterious Girlfriend X, Vol. 1 (Vertical Comics). This story has everything to do with relationships, but, as the guys point out, it has perhaps the weirdest premise they've encountered on the manga series so far. The narrative's 17-year-old protagonist and focalizer, Akira Tsubaki, becomes addicted to his new love interest -- literally! -- after tasting some of her drool. He gets sick if he goes without a dose of her saliva every day or so. His drool-defined heartthrob, Mikoto Urabe, is a complete enigma, a mystery made all the more confounding by her hobby of scissor play. Urabe has an uncanny ability to cut quickly and precisely almost any material with her scissors, which she carries holster-like in her panties. In fact, it's the "panty part" of this book that receives much of the guys' attention. Shea and Derek aren't exactly sure what to make of Ueshiba's fascination with older teenage girls' bodies, or the fact that he finds certain "cute" acts so alluring. As the artist summarizes at the end of this first volume, "Don't you think a girl who drools when she falls asleep is cute? Well, this is a comic about that sort of girl." Still, the guys never suggest that Ueshiba is any sort of creepy pedophile, and, in fact, they even see the benefits of setting his particular story within a high school milieu. Be that as it may, Mysterious Girlfriend X has to be one of the most head-scratching stories Shea and Derek have encounter in some time, and, along with Cigarette Girl, provides them with much discussion fodder for this month's episode. For the month of May, Shea and Derek discuss two books that, at first glance, seem quite different, but whose similarities become more apparent upon closer examination. They begin with Masahiko Matsumoto's Cigarette Girl (Top Shelf Productions), a collection of eleven short comics originally published between 1972 and 1974. This is one of the few books by Matsumoto available in English -- another translation, The Man Next Door, was published by Breakdown Press in 2014 -- and the guys strongly advocate for more attention on this mangaka. Shea and Derek recall their earlier discussion of Yoshihiro Tatsumi’s A Drifting Life, where the figure of Matsumoto is central to Tatsumi's autobiographical narrative. The stories in Cigarette Girl demonstrate the artist's style storytelling, which he referred to as "komaga" (or "panel pictures" in English), with its emphasis on a cinema-influenced panel breakdown and a more adult subject matter. Along with this, all of the stories end ambiguously or "obscurely," without any neat resolution or closure, underscoring the mature and real-life tone found in Matsumoto's work. About all of the pieces in this collection have something to do with , complicated, compromised, or unrequited relationships, with Matsumoto writing from both male and female perspectives. 

And it is this theme where Derek and Shea find the common ground with the other book they discuss this month, Riichi Ueshiba's Mysterious Girlfriend X, Vol. 1 (Vertical Comics). This story has everything to do with relationships, but, as the guys point out, it has perhaps the weirdest premise they've encountered on the manga series so far. The narrative's 17-year-old protagonist and focalizer, Akira Tsubaki, becomes addicted to his new love interest -- literally! -- after tasting some of her drool. He gets sick if he goes without a dose of her saliva every day or so. His drool-defined heartthrob, Mikoto Urabe, is a complete enigma, a mystery made all the more confounding by her hobby of scissor play. Urabe has an uncanny ability to cut quickly and precisely almost any material with her scissors, which she carries holster-like in her panties. In fact, it's the "panty part" of this book that receives much of the guys' attention. Shea and Derek aren't exactly sure what to make of Ueshiba's fascination with older teenage girls' bodies, or the fact that he finds certain "cute" acts so alluring. As the artist summarizes at the end of this first volume, "Don't you think a girl who drools when she falls asleep is cute? Well, this is a comic about that sort of girl." Still, the guys never suggest that Ueshiba is any sort of creepy pedophile, and, in fact, they even see the benefits of setting his particular story within a high school milieu. Be that as it may, Mysterious Girlfriend X has to be one of the most head-scratching stories Shea and Derek have encounter in some time, and, along with Cigarette Girl, provides them with much discussion fodder for this month's episode.

]]> 5018 no On Location: The May Visit to Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-may-visit-to-collected-comics-and-games Derek is back at his local comic shop, Collected Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and store employees about a variety of comics-related topics. Joining in the discussion are regulars Craig, Matt, and Chris, along with shop manager Sabrina and her assistant, Stephanie. As is usually the case with these on-location episodes, the core of the discussion is on mainstream comics -- this is what most of the customers read, after all -- so this is an opportunity for the podcast to cover ground that it normally doesn't. The show begins with conversation over the various comics folks have come in to pick up, and this week the standout is DC Universe Rebirth #1. Derek asks everyone if they think Rebirth will change the way they think about DC, and for the most part, the guys are cautiously optimistic about the relaunch...or the rebranding, or the renumbering. Whatever label is being used for this event. And Stephanie proves herself to be a wealth of superhero history, mapping out how DC's new universe will tap into and combine its previous incarnations. There's also discussion of upcoming boxed sets of the March trilogy and the most recent books of Hip Hop Family Tree, the first issue of Satellite Falling, Natasha Alterici's Heathen, Old Man Logan, Evil Ernie, and the wrap-up of Baker Street Peculiars. Sabrina, as shop manager, has retailer previews of Snotgirl #1 and Kim & Kim #1 that she's excited about (although she can't give much away). And there's also impassioned debate on the new Captain America: Steve Rogers #1  and its controversial revelation (warning: there are spoilers). All in all, it's another rollicking romp through Comics Land with the Collected crowd, proving once again how vibrant this shop really is. Fri, 27 May 2016 13:09:38 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "This is a show of alliteration" Derek is back at his local comic shop, Collected Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and store employees about a variety of comics-related topics. Joining in the discussion are regulars Craig, Matt, and Chris, along with shop manager Sabrina and her assistant, Stephanie. As is usually the case with these on-location episodes, the core of the discussion is on mainstream comics -- this is what most of the customers read, after all -- so this is an opportunity for the podcast to cover ground that it normally doesn't. The show begins with conversation over the various comics folks have come in to pick up, and this week the standout is DC Universe Rebirth #1. Derek asks everyone if they think Rebirth will change the way they think about DC, and for the most part, the guys are cautiously optimistic about the relaunch...or the rebranding, or the renumbering. Whatever label is being used for this event. And Stephanie proves herself to be a wealth of superhero history, mapping out how DC's new universe will tap into and combine its previous incarnations. There's also discussion of upcoming boxed sets of the March trilogy and the most recent books of Hip Hop Family Tree, the first issue of Satellite Falling, Natasha Alterici's Heathen, Old Man Logan, Evil Ernie, and the wrap-up of Baker Street Peculiars. Sabrina, as shop manager, has retailer previews of Snotgirl #1 and Kim & Kim #1 that she's excited about (although she can't give much away). And there's also impassioned debate on the new Captain America: Steve Rogers #1  and its controversial revelation (warning: there are spoilers). All in all, it's another rollicking romp through Comics Land with the Collected crowd, proving once again how vibrant this shop really is. Derek is back at his local comic shop, Collected Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and store employees about a variety of comics-related topics. Joining in the discussion are regulars Craig, Matt, and Chris, along with shop manager Sabrina and her assistant, Stephanie. As is usually the case with these on-location episodes, the core of the discussion is on mainstream comics -- this is what most of the customers read, after all -- so this is an opportunity for the podcast to cover ground that it normally doesn't. The show begins with conversation over the various comics folks have come in to pick up, and this week the standout is DC Universe Rebirth #1. Derek asks everyone if they think Rebirth will change the way they think about DC, and for the most part, the guys are cautiously optimistic about the relaunch...or the rebranding, or the renumbering. Whatever label is being used for this event. And Stephanie proves herself to be a wealth of superhero history, mapping out how DC's new universe will tap into and combine its previous incarnations. There's also discussion of upcoming boxed sets of the March trilogy and the most recent books of Hip Hop Family Tree, the first issue of Satellite Falling, Natasha Alterici's Heathen, Old Man Logan, Evil Ernie, and the wrap-up of Baker Street Peculiars. Sabrina, as shop manager, has retailer previews of Snotgirl #1 and Kim & Kim #1 that she's excited about (although she can't give much away). And there's also impassioned debate on the new Captain America: Steve Rogers #1  and its controversial revelation (warning: there are spoilers). All in all, it's another rollicking romp through Comics Land with the Collected crowd, proving once again how vibrant this shop really is.

]]> 4974 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Marnie Galloway http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-marnie-galloway Derek talks with Marnie Galloway about the publication of her first graphic novel, In the Sounds and Seas. This beautiful hardbound text was released earlier this month from One Peace Books, but her work on this project has a long and interesting history. The first third of the narrative was a 2012 Xeric Award winner -- and in the final year that the Xeric grant was given to comics artists -- and the entire story was originally released in three self-published volumes, the final one coming out in early 2016. Marnie discusses with Derek her decision to complete her story in this manner, even after receiving a contract from One Peace for the collected edition. They also talk about the challenges of telling a compelling story through a wordless text, the question of her art as visual poetry, and the various literary references woven into her narrative. Along the way, they take the time to discuss her various other comics and why she particularly enjoys writing in the short-story form. In the Sounds and Seas debuted at this year's Toronto Comic Arts Festival, so Marnie shares her experiences at the event along with the thrills of being able to showcase her new book to such a major audience. This is an impressive work from a young creator whom we are sure to hear more from in the coming months. Check out Marnie's website to discover more of her art! Thu, 26 May 2016 13:58:22 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Words Cannot Express Derek talks with Marnie Galloway about the publication of her first graphic novel, In the Sounds and Seas. This beautiful hardbound text was released earlier this month from One Peace Books, but her work on this project has a long and interesting history. The first third of the narrative was a 2012 Xeric Award winner -- and in the final year that the Xeric grant was given to comics artists -- and the entire story was originally released in three self-published volumes, the final one coming out in early 2016. Marnie discusses with Derek her decision to complete her story in this manner, even after receiving a contract from One Peace for the collected edition. They also talk about the challenges of telling a compelling story through a wordless text, the question of her art as visual poetry, and the various literary references woven into her narrative. Along the way, they take the time to discuss her various other comics and why she particularly enjoys writing in the short-story form. In the Sounds and Seas debuted at this year's Toronto Comic Arts Festival, so Marnie shares her experiences at the event along with the thrills of being able to showcase her new book to such a major audience. This is an impressive work from a young creator whom we are sure to hear more from in the coming months. Check out Marnie's website to discover more of her art! Derek talks with Marnie Galloway about the publication of her first graphic novel, In the Sounds and Seas. This beautiful hardbound text was released earlier this month from One Peace Books, but her work on this project has a long and interesting history. The first third of the narrative was a 2012 Xeric Award winner -- and in the final year that the Xeric grant was given to comics artists -- and the entire story was originally released in three self-published volumes, the final one coming out in early 2016. Marnie discusses with Derek her decision to complete her story in this manner, even after receiving a contract from One Peace for the collected edition. They also talk about the challenges of telling a compelling story through a wordless text, the question of her art as visual poetry, and the various literary references woven into her narrative. Along the way, they take the time to discuss her various other comics and why she particularly enjoys writing in the short-story form. In the Sounds and Seas debuted at this year's Toronto Comic Arts Festival, so Marnie shares her experiences at the event along with the thrills of being able to showcase her new book to such a major audience. This is an impressive work from a young creator whom we are sure to hear more from in the coming months.

Check out Marnie's website to discover more of her art!

]]> 4822 no Episode 189: A Discussion of the 2016 Eisner Award Nominations http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-189-a-discussion-of-the-2016-eisner-award-nominations The nominees for the 2016 Eisner Awards were announced last month, and as the Two Guys with PhDs do every year, they use an episode of The Comics Alternative to discuss and speculate. Joining them in this year's conversation is Carol Tilley, a professor of information science at the University of Illinois and, more to the point of this episode, one of the nominating judges for this year's Eisner Awards. Carol is not a stranger to the podcast, having participated in last year's roundtable discussion on libraries and comics, but this time around she's back to share her experiences and answer questions that Andy and Derek have about the Eisners. She doesn't give away any private deliberations nor does she disclose secrets, but she does help demystify the nomination process and provides insight into many of the award categories. After their conversation with Carol, Derek and Andy go on to share their own thoughts on this year's nominations, separating their personal tastes from the kind of broader, critical analysis you come to expect from the podcast. They try to discern trends, highlight special achievements, and understand the nominating choices that were made. They especially note the sheer number of nominees who have appeared on The Comics Alternative or whose works were prominently reviewed on the podcast, giving credence, once again, to what Andy and Derek self-importantly call "the Comics Alternative bump." When all is said and done, the guys are quite impressed with this year's roster of creators and their comics up for recognition. Wed, 25 May 2016 14:12:46 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Discerning Tastes? The nominees for the 2016 Eisner Awards were announced last month, and as the Two Guys with PhDs do every year, they use an episode of The Comics Alternative to discuss and speculate. Joining them in this year's conversation is Carol Tilley, a professor of information science at the University of Illinois and, more to the point of this episode, one of the nominating judges for this year's Eisner Awards. Carol is not a stranger to the podcast, having participated in last year's roundtable discussion on libraries and comics, but this time around she's back to share her experiences and answer questions that Andy and Derek have about the Eisners. She doesn't give away any private deliberations nor does she disclose secrets, but she does help demystify the nomination process and provides insight into many of the award categories. After their conversation with Carol, Derek and Andy go on to share their own thoughts on this year's nominations, separating their personal tastes from the kind of broader, critical analysis you come to expect from the podcast. They try to discern trends, highlight special achievements, and understand the nominating choices that were made. They especially note the sheer number of nominees who have appeared on The Comics Alternative or whose works were prominently reviewed on the podcast, giving credence, once again, to what Andy and Derek self-importantly call "the Comics Alternative bump." When all is said and done, the guys are quite impressed with this year's roster of creators and their comics up for recognition. The nominees for the 2016 Eisner Awards were announced last month, and as the Two Guys with PhDs do every year, they use an episode of The Comics Alternative to discuss and speculate. Joining them in this year's conversation is Carol Tilley, a professor of information science at the University of Illinois and, more to the point of this episode, one of the nominating judges for this year's Eisner Awards. Carol is not a stranger to the podcast, having participated in last year's roundtable discussion on libraries and comics, but this time around she's back to share her experiences and answer questions that Andy and Derek have about the Eisners. She doesn't give away any private deliberations nor does she disclose secrets, but she does help demystify the nomination process and provides insight into many of the award categories. After their conversation with Carol, Derek and Andy go on to share their own thoughts on this year's nominations, separating their personal tastes from the kind of broader, critical analysis you come to expect from the podcast. They try to discern trends, highlight special achievements, and understand the nominating choices that were made. They especially note the sheer number of nominees who have appeared on The Comics Alternative or whose works were prominently reviewed on the podcast, giving credence, once again, to what Andy and Derek self-importantly call "the Comics Alternative bump." When all is said and done, the guys are quite impressed with this year's roster of creators and their comics up for recognition.

]]> 6369 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Terry Moore http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-terry-moore On May 25, the final issue of Rachel Rising will be released. This has been a landmark horror/gothic series, an intelligent and multifaceted narrative exploring the parameters of history, gender, community, morality, and the nature of violence...and doing so without following the usual generic conventions and formulas. To mark this publishing event, Derek has the pleasure of talking with the series creator Terry Moore. What began in August 2011 as an undead murder mystery will now come full circle as we learn in the final issue, according to Terry, the identity of Rachel's killer and the connections that inextricably bind the two. In their conversation, Terry talks with Derek about the genesis of Rachel Rising, the functions of its various actors, the philosophies that propel the narrative, and how his organic style of storytelling has come to define the series. Terry also places the title within the context of his other work, most notably Strangers in Paradise and Echo, and discusses his evolution as a writer within the comics medium. Derek also asks him about his plans regarding other media and the possibility of bringing Rachel Rising to television. This isn't the first time that Derek has talked with Terry -- he spoke with him briefly at the Dallas Comic Con in 2013, and he conducted a longer interview with him for the blog in 2014 -- but this is the only time he has had him on the podcast for a substantive one-on-one interview. Tue, 24 May 2016 13:34:53 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Endings On May 25, the final issue of Rachel Rising will be released. This has been a landmark horror/gothic series, an intelligent and multifaceted narrative exploring the parameters of history, gender, community, morality, and the nature of violence...and doing so without following the usual generic conventions and formulas. To mark this publishing event, Derek has the pleasure of talking with the series creator Terry Moore. What began in August 2011 as an undead murder mystery will now come full circle as we learn in the final issue, according to Terry, the identity of Rachel's killer and the connections that inextricably bind the two. In their conversation, Terry talks with Derek about the genesis of Rachel Rising, the functions of its various actors, the philosophies that propel the narrative, and how his organic style of storytelling has come to define the series. Terry also places the title within the context of his other work, most notably Strangers in Paradise and Echo, and discusses his evolution as a writer within the comics medium. Derek also asks him about his plans regarding other media and the possibility of bringing Rachel Rising to television. This isn't the first time that Derek has talked with Terry -- he spoke with him briefly at the Dallas Comic Con in 2013, and he conducted a longer interview with him for the blog in 2014 -- but this is the only time he has had him on the podcast for a substantive one-on-one interview. On May 25, the final issue of Rachel Rising will be released. This has been a landmark horror/gothic series, an intelligent and multifaceted narrative exploring the parameters of history, gender, community, morality, and the nature of violence...and doing so without following the usual generic conventions and formulas. To mark this publishing event, Derek has the pleasure of talking with the series creator Terry Moore. What began in August 2011 as an undead murder mystery will now come full circle as we learn in the final issue, according to Terry, the identity of Rachel's killer and the connections that inextricably bind the two. In their conversation, Terry talks with Derek about the genesis of Rachel Rising, the functions of its various actors, the philosophies that propel the narrative, and how his organic style of storytelling has come to define the series. Terry also places the title within the context of his other work, most notably Strangers in Paradise and Echo, and discusses his evolution as a writer within the comics medium. Derek also asks him about his plans regarding other media and the possibility of bringing Rachel Rising to television. This isn't the first time that Derek has talked with Terry -- he spoke with him briefly at the Dallas Comic Con in 2013, and he conducted a longer interview with him for the blog in 2014 -- but this is the only time he has had him on the podcast for a substantive one-on-one interview.

]]> 4367 no Webcomics: Reviews of Power Nap, Necropolis, and Look Straight Ahead http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-power-nap-necropolis-and-look-straight-ahead Sean and Derek are back for another month's-worth of webcomics talk, and for May they discuss three intriguing titles. They begin with Maritza Campos and Bachan's Power Nap. This is the second time the guys have focused on Bachan's art, the first occasion being his anthropomorphic humor/crime series, Vinny, back in September of last year. He provides the art on the Campos-scripted Power Nap, a story set in a dystopic future where everyone uses pharmaceuticals to stay awake 24/7 in order to produce more for their corporations...except if someone is allergic to the drug. Drew Spencer, the story's protagonist, is just such an individual. Sean and Derek enjoy the webcomic's strange melding of reality and dreamscape, although there are occasions when the storyline becomes unnecessarily fractured. Sean believes that this is the result of the sporadic scheduling of the updates, with long stretches between some story events. Next, the Two Guys check out Jake Wyatt's Necropolis, a webcomic that is fairly new and in its early stages. This is a fantasy where the creator is establishing quite an elaborate narrative world, complete with its own mythology. Derek and Sean are impressed with the art, especially, and they're curious about the fact that, according to the webcomic's "About" page, this story is already set to be published by Image Comics in English and Casterman in French. That's quite an achievement for a webcomic only in its second chapter and with only 32 pages of story, so far. Finally, the guys wrap up with a webcomic that was completed in March 2013 and published in book form from Alternative Comics the following month. Elaine M. Will's Look Straight Ahead is a moving story about mental illness and the struggles of adolescence. It follows the final high school months of Jeremy Knowles, a 17-year-old who has difficulty fitting in and whose psychiatric state exacerbates his alienation. He comes to use his art as a way of dealing with his condition, and Sean and Derek are fascinated by the way Will represents psychological states through her black-and-white style and her selective use of colors. Whether you read this story online -- and the complete webcomic is still available -- or you buy the book, this is definitely a narrative worth exploring. Mon, 23 May 2016 13:50:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Altered Awareness Sean and Derek are back for another month's-worth of webcomics talk, and for May they discuss three intriguing titles. They begin with Maritza Campos and Bachan's Power Nap. This is the second time the guys have focused on Bachan's art, the first occasion being his anthropomorphic humor/crime series, Vinny, back in September of last year. He provides the art on the Campos-scripted Power Nap, a story set in a dystopic future where everyone uses pharmaceuticals to stay awake 24/7 in order to produce more for their corporations...except if someone is allergic to the drug. Drew Spencer, the story's protagonist, is just such an individual. Sean and Derek enjoy the webcomic's strange melding of reality and dreamscape, although there are occasions when the storyline becomes unnecessarily fractured. Sean believes that this is the result of the sporadic scheduling of the updates, with long stretches between some story events. Next, the Two Guys check out Jake Wyatt's Necropolis, a webcomic that is fairly new and in its early stages. This is a fantasy where the creator is establishing quite an elaborate narrative world, complete with its own mythology. Derek and Sean are impressed with the art, especially, and they're curious about the fact that, according to the webcomic's "About" page, this story is already set to be published by Image Comics in English and Casterman in French. That's quite an achievement for a webcomic only in its second chapter and with only 32 pages of story, so far. Finally, the guys wrap up with a webcomic that was completed in March 2013 and published in book form from Alternative Comics the following month. Elaine M. Will's Look Straight Ahead is a moving story about mental illness and the struggles of adolescence. It follows the final high school months of Jeremy Knowles, a 17-year-old who has difficulty fitting in and whose psychiatric state exacerbates his alienation. He comes to use his art as a way of dealing with his condition, and Sean and Derek are fascinated by the way Will represents psychological states through her black-and-white style and her selective use of colors. Whether you read this story online -- and the complete webcomic is still available -- or you buy the book, this is definitely a narrative worth exploring. Sean and Derek are back for another month's-worth of webcomics talk, and for May they discuss three intriguing titles. They begin with Maritza Campos and Bachan's Power Nap. This is the second time the guys have focused on Bachan's art, the first occasion being his anthropomorphic humor/crime series, Vinny, back in September of last year. He provides the art on the Campos-scripted Power Nap, a story set in a dystopic future where everyone uses pharmaceuticals to stay awake 24/7 in order to produce more for their corporations...except if someone is allergic to the drug. Drew Spencer, the story's protagonist, is just such an individual. Sean and Derek enjoy the webcomic's strange melding of reality and dreamscape, although there are occasions when the storyline becomes unnecessarily fractured. Sean believes that this is the result of the sporadic scheduling of the updates, with long stretches between some story events.

Next, the Two Guys check out Jake Wyatt's Necropolis, a webcomic that is fairly new and in its early stages. This is a fantasy where the creator is establishing quite an elaborate narrative world, complete with its own mythology. Derek and Sean are impressed with the art, especially, and they're curious about the fact that, according to the webcomic's "About" page, this story is already set to be published by Image Comics in English and Casterman in French. That's quite an achievement for a webcomic only in its second chapter and with only 32 pages of story, so far.

Finally, the guys wrap up with a webcomic that was completed in March 2013 and published in book form from Alternative Comics the following month. Elaine M. Will's Look Straight Ahead is a moving story about mental illness and the struggles of adolescence. It follows the final high school months of Jeremy Knowles, a 17-year-old who has difficulty fitting in and whose psychiatric state exacerbates his alienation. He comes to use his art as a way of dealing with his condition, and Sean and Derek are fascinated by the way Will represents psychological states through her black-and-white style and her selective use of colors. Whether you read this story online -- and the complete webcomic is still available -- or you buy the book, this is definitely a narrative worth exploring.

]]> 4849 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Jamie Richards and Edward Gauvin http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jamie-richards-and-edward-gauvin Over the past several years, the Two Guys with PhDs have reviewed a lot of books in translation. But what they've tended to overlook, more times than not, is the translator of the work, the individual who is responsible for taking the imagetext and re-presenting it in a linguistic context that is wholly other. This came to their attention back in February, when Andy and Derek discussed Ludovic Debeurme's Renée, and then afterwards received an email of appreciation from its translator, Edward Gauvin. In fact, the guys never mentioned Edward at any point during their discussion, which was not only an unfortunate oversight, but also says something about the invisible art of comics translation. As a response to that experience, they wanted to pay homage to translators by speaking with a couple for the podcast. So on this interview show, Derek has the pleasure of talking with two prolific translators of comics art, Jamie Richards and Edward Gauvin. Each has had two translations recently published. For Jamie it's Manuele Fiore’s 5,000 km Per Second (from Fantagraphics, and which Gwen and Derek discussed last month) and Igort's The Ukrainian and Russian Notebooks: Life and Death under Soviet Rule (Simon and Schuster), and with Edward it's Joann Sfar's Pascin  (Uncivilized Books) and Blutch's Peplum (New York Review Comics). In this interview, they talk with Derek about the process of translation, its various challenges, and the unique role that visuals bring to their work. For example, Jamie discusses the kind of preparations she had to do when translating Igort -- specifically her research into Cyrillic languages -- and Edward shares his experiences in working with various and, at times, radically diverse publishers. All in all, this interview gives listeners a glimpse into the laborious, and under-appreciated, work of bringing European comics to an English-speaking audience. Also in this episode, Derek uses the occasion to introduce Edward as the cohost of the new series for The Comics Alternative. Beginning in June, he and Derek will take a monthly look at bandes dessinées, or European comics in translation, that will be similar in structure to the podcast's monthly manga series. This is yet another way that The Two Guys with PhDs plan to introduce their listeners to comics that are different and off the beaten mainstream path. Fri, 20 May 2016 13:38:46 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Invisible No More Over the past several years, the Two Guys with PhDs have reviewed a lot of books in translation. But what they've tended to overlook, more times than not, is the translator of the work, the individual who is responsible for taking the imagetext and re-presenting it in a linguistic context that is wholly other. This came to their attention back in February, when Andy and Derek discussed Ludovic Debeurme's Renée, and then afterwards received an email of appreciation from its translator, Edward Gauvin. In fact, the guys never mentioned Edward at any point during their discussion, which was not only an unfortunate oversight, but also says something about the invisible art of comics translation. As a response to that experience, they wanted to pay homage to translators by speaking with a couple for the podcast. So on this interview show, Derek has the pleasure of talking with two prolific translators of comics art, Jamie Richards and Edward Gauvin. Each has had two translations recently published. For Jamie it's Manuele Fiore’s 5,000 km Per Second (from Fantagraphics, and which Gwen and Derek discussed last month) and Igort's The Ukrainian and Russian Notebooks: Life and Death under Soviet Rule (Simon and Schuster), and with Edward it's Joann Sfar's Pascin  (Uncivilized Books) and Blutch's Peplum (New York Review Comics). In this interview, they talk with Derek about the process of translation, its various challenges, and the unique role that visuals bring to their work. For example, Jamie discusses the kind of preparations she had to do when translating Igort -- specifically her research into Cyrillic languages -- and Edward shares his experiences in working with various and, at times, radically diverse publishers. All in all, this interview gives listeners a glimpse into the laborious, and under-appreciated, work of bringing European comics to an English-speaking audience. Also in this episode, Derek uses the occasion to introduce Edward as the cohost of the new series for The Comics Alternative. Beginning in June, he and Derek will take a monthly look at bandes dessinées, or European comics in translation, that will be similar in structure to the podcast's monthly manga series. This is yet another way that The Two Guys with PhDs plan to introduce their listeners to comics that are different and off the beaten mainstream path. Over the past several years, the Two Guys with PhDs have reviewed a lot of books in translation. But what they've tended to overlook, more times than not, is the translator of the work, the individual who is responsible for taking the imagetext and re-presenting it in a linguistic context that is wholly other. This came to their attention back in February, when Andy and Derek discussed Ludovic Debeurme's Renée, and then afterwards received an email of appreciation from its translator, Edward Gauvin. In fact, the guys never mentioned Edward at any point during their discussion, which was not only an unfortunate oversight, but also says something about the invisible art of comics translation. As a response to that experience, they wanted to pay homage to translators by speaking with a couple for the podcast.

So on this interview show, Derek has the pleasure of talking with two prolific translators of comics art, Jamie Richards and Edward Gauvin. Each has had two translations recently published. For Jamie it's Manuele Fiore’s 5,000 km Per Second (from Fantagraphics, and which Gwen and Derek discussed last month) and Igort's The Ukrainian and Russian Notebooks: Life and Death under Soviet Rule (Simon and Schuster), and with Edward it's Joann Sfar's Pascin  (Uncivilized Books) and Blutch's Peplum (New York Review Comics). In this interview, they talk with Derek about the process of translation, its various challenges, and the unique role that visuals bring to their work. For example, Jamie discusses the kind of preparations she had to do when translating Igort -- specifically her research into Cyrillic languages -- and Edward shares his experiences in working with various and, at times, radically diverse publishers. All in all, this interview gives listeners a glimpse into the laborious, and under-appreciated, work of bringing European comics to an English-speaking audience.

Also in this episode, Derek uses the occasion to introduce Edward as the cohost of the new series for The Comics Alternative. Beginning in June, he and Derek will take a monthly look at bandes dessinées, or European comics in translation, that will be similar in structure to the podcast's monthly manga series. This is yet another way that The Two Guys with PhDs plan to introduce their listeners to comics that are different and off the beaten mainstream path.

]]> 5591 no Episode 188 - A Publisher Spotlight on Avery Hill Publishing http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-188-a-publisher-spotlight-on-avery-hill-publishing Gwen and Derek are back with another publisher spotlight episode, this one on the UK press, Avery Hill Publishing. They begin their spotlight with a short interview with the people behind Avery Hill: Ricky Miller, Dave White, and Katriona Chapman. Derek talks with them about the origins of the press, the kind of creators that have come to define Avery Hill, their distribution and publicity outside of the UK, and their plans for fall releases and beyond. After that conversation, Gwen and Derek get into the nitty gritty of the publisher's current offerings. They start by looking at the most recent issues of two ongoing series from Avery Hill, Reads #4 and Metroland #3. The former is an anthology periodical currently in its second volume, and the two discuss its various serialized storylines. Gwen is particularly fond of Owen D. Pomery's "The Megatherium Club," but they also discuss Reads other historically based stories -- Ricky Miller and Tim Bird's "Hitchcock and Film" as well as Bird and Luke James Halsall's "The Bullpen" (inspired by Marvel Comics in the early 1960s) -- and the colorful, offbeat comics of EdieOP. The most recent issue of Metroland continues the drama behind Ricky Miller and Julia Scheele's fictional 1980s band, Electric Dreams, and while discussing this evolving narrative, Derek and Gwen even wax nostalgic over their own musical histories growing up during that time. Next, they discuss three new books released this spring. A City Inside is yet another work from Tillie Walden -- she's become a singular force at Avery Hill -- and this one is a measured, meditative look at self-identity with an almost poetic tone. Rachel Smith's Artificial Flowers does to the London art scene what Miller and Scheele's Metroland does with the city post-punk. Both the artist's unassuming premise and her clean, iconic art style easily draw Gwen and Derek into this fun story. And then finally, the cohosts wrap up with the latest book in Matthew Swan's Parsley Girl series. Neither Derek nor Gwen had been familiar with Swan's work previously, but Parsley Girl: Carrots proves to be a good introduction into his weird and almost psychedelic narrative world. Overall, both Gwen and Derek find a lot of excitement behind this young press. Avery Hill may be just now getting a foothold in the US market -- thanks to its recent distribution agreement with Retrofit/Big Planet -- but as this episode demonstrates, it's definitely a publisher worth watching. Wed, 18 May 2016 14:28:30 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Musical Discoveries Gwen and Derek are back with another publisher spotlight episode, this one on the UK press, Avery Hill Publishing. They begin their spotlight with a short interview with the people behind Avery Hill: Ricky Miller, Dave White, and Katriona Chapman. Derek talks with them about the origins of the press, the kind of creators that have come to define Avery Hill, their distribution and publicity outside of the UK, and their plans for fall releases and beyond. After that conversation, Gwen and Derek get into the nitty gritty of the publisher's current offerings. They start by looking at the most recent issues of two ongoing series from Avery Hill, Reads #4 and Metroland #3. The former is an anthology periodical currently in its second volume, and the two discuss its various serialized storylines. Gwen is particularly fond of Owen D. Pomery's "The Megatherium Club," but they also discuss Reads other historically based stories -- Ricky Miller and Tim Bird's "Hitchcock and Film" as well as Bird and Luke James Halsall's "The Bullpen" (inspired by Marvel Comics in the early 1960s) -- and the colorful, offbeat comics of EdieOP. The most recent issue of Metroland continues the drama behind Ricky Miller and Julia Scheele's fictional 1980s band, Electric Dreams, and while discussing this evolving narrative, Derek and Gwen even wax nostalgic over their own musical histories growing up during that time. Next, they discuss three new books released this spring. A City Inside is yet another work from Tillie Walden -- she's become a singular force at Avery Hill -- and this one is a measured, meditative look at self-identity with an almost poetic tone. Rachel Smith's Artificial Flowers does to the London art scene what Miller and Scheele's Metroland does with the city post-punk. Both the artist's unassuming premise and her clean, iconic art style easily draw Gwen and Derek into this fun story. And then finally, the cohosts wrap up with the latest book in Matthew Swan's Parsley Girl series. Neither Derek nor Gwen had been familiar with Swan's work previously, but Parsley Girl: Carrots proves to be a good introduction into his weird and almost psychedelic narrative world. Overall, both Gwen and Derek find a lot of excitement behind this young press. Avery Hill may be just now getting a foothold in the US market -- thanks to its recent distribution agreement with Retrofit/Big Planet -- but as this episode demonstrates, it's definitely a publisher worth watching. Gwen and Derek are back with another publisher spotlight episode, this one on the UK press, Avery Hill Publishing. They begin their spotlight with a short interview with the people behind Avery Hill: Ricky Miller, Dave White, and Katriona Chapman. Derek talks with them about the origins of the press, the kind of creators that have come to define Avery Hill, their distribution and publicity outside of the UK, and their plans for fall releases and beyond.

After that conversation, Gwen and Derek get into the nitty gritty of the publisher's current offerings. They start by looking at the most recent issues of two ongoing series from Avery Hill, Reads #4 and Metroland #3. The former is an anthology periodical currently in its second volume, and the two discuss its various serialized storylines. Gwen is particularly fond of Owen D. Pomery's "The Megatherium Club," but they also discuss Reads other historically based stories -- Ricky Miller and Tim Bird's "Hitchcock and Film" as well as Bird and Luke James Halsall's "The Bullpen" (inspired by Marvel Comics in the early 1960s) -- and the colorful, offbeat comics of EdieOP. The most recent issue of Metroland continues the drama behind Ricky Miller and Julia Scheele's fictional 1980s band, Electric Dreams, and while discussing this evolving narrative, Derek and Gwen even wax nostalgic over their own musical histories growing up during that time.

Next, they discuss three new books released this spring. A City Inside is yet another work from Tillie Walden -- she's become a singular force at Avery Hill -- and this one is a measured, meditative look at self-identity with an almost poetic tone. Rachel Smith's Artificial Flowers does to the London art scene what Miller and Scheele's Metroland does with the city post-punk. Both the artist's unassuming premise and her clean, iconic art style easily draw Gwen and Derek into this fun story. And then finally, the cohosts wrap up with the latest book in Matthew Swan's Parsley Girl series. Neither Derek nor Gwen had been familiar with Swan's work previously, but Parsley Girl: Carrots proves to be a good introduction into his weird and almost psychedelic narrative world.

Overall, both Gwen and Derek find a lot of excitement behind this young press. Avery Hill may be just now getting a foothold in the US market -- thanks to its recent distribution agreement with Retrofit/Big Planet -- but as this episode demonstrates, it's definitely a publisher worth watching.

]]> 5980 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Arvind Ethan David http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-arvind-ethan-david For this interview episode, Derek talks with Arvind Ethan David about his current work on the IDW miniseries, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short. He writes that title, working with Ilias Kyriazis on art, and he was the editor of last year's earlier Dirk Gently series. Arvind talks with Derek extensively about his fascination with this unorthodox detective, his association with the late Douglas Adams, and the curious road he traveled to get into comics. A Spoon Too Short isn't an outright adaptation of any of Adams's novels, although its title springs from an alternative title the writer had been considering for a book he was working on at the time of his death. And fans of Douglas Adams will recognize in the comic plenty of allusions to novelist's body of work. Arvind also shares some inside information -- at least, what he's able to disclose -- about the new Dirk Gently BBC series that will begin this fall, where he will work with Max Landis to bring the Adams character to television for the second time. The guys also discuss the upcoming Darkness Visible, an original comics series that Arvind is writing with Mike Carey and that will be coming out from IDW later this year. This is a busy time for the solicitor/producer/editor/writer, but in this interview Arvind takes the time to share his experiences and whet listeners' appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things. Mon, 16 May 2016 13:22:02 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Interconnectedness For this interview episode, Derek talks with Arvind Ethan David about his current work on the IDW miniseries, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short. He writes that title, working with Ilias Kyriazis on art, and he was the editor of last year's earlier Dirk Gently series. Arvind talks with Derek extensively about his fascination with this unorthodox detective, his association with the late Douglas Adams, and the curious road he traveled to get into comics. A Spoon Too Short isn't an outright adaptation of any of Adams's novels, although its title springs from an alternative title the writer had been considering for a book he was working on at the time of his death. And fans of Douglas Adams will recognize in the comic plenty of allusions to novelist's body of work. Arvind also shares some inside information -- at least, what he's able to disclose -- about the new Dirk Gently BBC series that will begin this fall, where he will work with Max Landis to bring the Adams character to television for the second time. The guys also discuss the upcoming Darkness Visible, an original comics series that Arvind is writing with Mike Carey and that will be coming out from IDW later this year. This is a busy time for the solicitor/producer/editor/writer, but in this interview Arvind takes the time to share his experiences and whet listeners' appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things. For this interview episode, Derek talks with Arvind Ethan David about his current work on the IDW miniseries, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short. He writes that title, working with Ilias Kyriazis on art, and he was the editor of last year's earlier Dirk Gently series. Arvind talks with Derek extensively about his fascination with this unorthodox detective, his association with the late Douglas Adams, and the curious road he traveled to get into comics. A Spoon Too Short isn't an outright adaptation of any of Adams's novels, although its title springs from an alternative title the writer had been considering for a book he was working on at the time of his death. And fans of Douglas Adams will recognize in the comic plenty of allusions to novelist's body of work. Arvind also shares some inside information -- at least, what he's able to disclose -- about the new Dirk Gently BBC series that will begin this fall, where he will work with Max Landis to bring the Adams character to television for the second time. The guys also discuss the upcoming Darkness Visible, an original comics series that Arvind is writing with Mike Carey and that will be coming out from IDW later this year. This is a busy time for the solicitor/producer/editor/writer, but in this interview Arvind takes the time to share his experiences and whet listeners' appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things.

]]> 3659 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Jordan Crane http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jordan-crane On this episode of the interview series, Derek is excited to talk with Jordan Crane. The latest installment of Jordan's series, Uptight, was released by Fantagraphics earlier this year, and the two begin by discussing its contents and how issue #5 is notably different from the previous ones. First off, this is a much longer issue than usual, and Jordan explains that since it's been three and a half years since issue #4, he felt the need to include more material in this latest release. In fact, there are four stories, or segments of stories, that compose Uptight #5, one of the most significant being an update of Jordan's serialized narrative, "Keeping Two." They spend a good deal time discussing this project and the various ways in which Jordan represents consciousness through visual means. Derek also asks his guest about the somber nature of the stories "Wake Up" and "The Dark Nothing." Jordan admits that while some of his previous work has a similarly dark tone, there's something about this latest issue of Uptight that underscores this mood. But the two also talk about more upbeat storylines, such as the ongoing adventures of Simon and his cat, Jack -- given full treatment in Jordan's 2005 book, The Clouds Above -- and his other comics, such as the Keep Our Secrets and the Xeric Award-winning Col-Dee. Derek also asks Jordan about his time orchestrating the anthology NON, and how the efforts on his website What Things Do currently scratch any editorial itches he might have. All in all, this is a revealing interview and, if you are not already a long-time fan of Jordan's work, a great introduction to one of the medium's most intriguing indie creators. Fri, 13 May 2016 15:09:28 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Read with a hairdryer" On this episode of the interview series, Derek is excited to talk with Jordan Crane. The latest installment of Jordan's series, Uptight, was released by Fantagraphics earlier this year, and the two begin by discussing its contents and how issue #5 is notably different from the previous ones. First off, this is a much longer issue than usual, and Jordan explains that since it's been three and a half years since issue #4, he felt the need to include more material in this latest release. In fact, there are four stories, or segments of stories, that compose Uptight #5, one of the most significant being an update of Jordan's serialized narrative, "Keeping Two." They spend a good deal time discussing this project and the various ways in which Jordan represents consciousness through visual means. Derek also asks his guest about the somber nature of the stories "Wake Up" and "The Dark Nothing." Jordan admits that while some of his previous work has a similarly dark tone, there's something about this latest issue of Uptight that underscores this mood. But the two also talk about more upbeat storylines, such as the ongoing adventures of Simon and his cat, Jack -- given full treatment in Jordan's 2005 book, The Clouds Above -- and his other comics, such as the Keep Our Secrets and the Xeric Award-winning Col-Dee. Derek also asks Jordan about his time orchestrating the anthology NON, and how the efforts on his website What Things Do currently scratch any editorial itches he might have. All in all, this is a revealing interview and, if you are not already a long-time fan of Jordan's work, a great introduction to one of the medium's most intriguing indie creators. On this episode of the interview series, Derek is excited to talk with Jordan Crane. The latest installment of Jordan's series, Uptight, was released by Fantagraphics earlier this year, and the two begin by discussing its contents and how issue #5 is notably different from the previous ones. First off, this is a much longer issue than usual, and Jordan explains that since it's been three and a half years since issue #4, he felt the need to include more material in this latest release. In fact, there are four stories, or segments of stories, that compose Uptight #5, one of the most significant being an update of Jordan's serialized narrative, "Keeping Two." They spend a good deal time discussing this project and the various ways in which Jordan represents consciousness through visual means. Derek also asks his guest about the somber nature of the stories "Wake Up" and "The Dark Nothing." Jordan admits that while some of his previous work has a similarly dark tone, there's something about this latest issue of Uptight that underscores this mood. But the two also talk about more upbeat storylines, such as the ongoing adventures of Simon and his cat, Jack -- given full treatment in Jordan's 2005 book, The Clouds Above -- and his other comics, such as the Keep Our Secrets and the Xeric Award-winning Col-Dee. Derek also asks Jordan about his time orchestrating the anthology NON, and how the efforts on his website What Things Do currently scratch any editorial itches he might have. All in all, this is a revealing interview and, if you are not already a long-time fan of Jordan's work, a great introduction to one of the medium's most intriguing indie creators.

]]> 4620 yes Episode 187 - Reviews of Panther, Mae #1, and The Walking Dead: The Alien http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-187-reviews-of-panther-mae-1-and-the-walking-dead-the-alien The Dynamic Doctoral Duo is back for another action-packed episode promising thrills and chills! This time, Gwen and Derek begin by discussing Brecht Evens's  Panther (Drawn and Quarterly), a book that gives a first impression of innocence but then becomes darker and increasingly disturbing as the story develops. Gwen is a scholar of children's literature, and she points out that Evens follows many of the tropes found in picture books, and his style -- what you'd find in his earlier works, The Wrong Place and The Making Of -- may even lead readers to see this as one. But she argues that Panther is anything but a text for younger readers. Evens's penchant for watercolor and his borderless panel style make this a most sophisticated narrative, one with no easy answers and ending in ambiguity. Next, Derek and Gwen transition into yet another portal narrative, Gene Ha's Mae #1 (Dark Horse Comics). In this new creator-owned series, which began last year as a Kickstarter, the titular character's older sister, Abbie, has discovered a way into another world and often absents herself from her family. But Abbie's fantastical getaway begins to insert itself into the mundane world, initiating events that are sure to carry the  homebody Mae into unexpected adventures. This is Ha's first attempt at both writing and illustrating in a longer narrative form, and it's a series that both cohosts plan on returning to in the months to come. Finally, the two wrap up by doing something that has not yet been done on The Comics Alternative: reviewing a Walking Dead title. As much as Derek enjoys the popular comic-book series and the TV show, they've just never had the opportunity to discuss a beginning point or something standalone from Kirkman and Allard's franchise. But this time, they have: Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin's one-shot, The Walking Dead: The Alien. This is available on the creators' Panel Syndicate website, and as with the other titles you'll find there -- e.g., The Private Eye and Barrier -- this is a pay-what-you-want comic. Gwen does not have much history with The Walking Dead, and she's not a fan of zombie narratives, so she brings a unique perspective to the discussion...and likes what she reads. And as Derek points out, this is a title that will resonate with avid Walking Dead fans and at the same time can hold up outside of any larger narrative context. As if we needed any addition reason to love the creative team of Vaughan and Martin. Wed, 11 May 2016 13:16:22 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Reading Portals The Dynamic Doctoral Duo is back for another action-packed episode promising thrills and chills! This time, Gwen and Derek begin by discussing Brecht Evens's  Panther (Drawn and Quarterly), a book that gives a first impression of innocence but then becomes darker and increasingly disturbing as the story develops. Gwen is a scholar of children's literature, and she points out that Evens follows many of the tropes found in picture books, and his style -- what you'd find in his earlier works, The Wrong Place and The Making Of -- may even lead readers to see this as one. But she argues that Panther is anything but a text for younger readers. Evens's penchant for watercolor and his borderless panel style make this a most sophisticated narrative, one with no easy answers and ending in ambiguity. Next, Derek and Gwen transition into yet another portal narrative, Gene Ha's Mae #1 (Dark Horse Comics). In this new creator-owned series, which began last year as a Kickstarter, the titular character's older sister, Abbie, has discovered a way into another world and often absents herself from her family. But Abbie's fantastical getaway begins to insert itself into the mundane world, initiating events that are sure to carry the  homebody Mae into unexpected adventures. This is Ha's first attempt at both writing and illustrating in a longer narrative form, and it's a series that both cohosts plan on returning to in the months to come. Finally, the two wrap up by doing something that has not yet been done on The Comics Alternative: reviewing a Walking Dead title. As much as Derek enjoys the popular comic-book series and the TV show, they've just never had the opportunity to discuss a beginning point or something standalone from Kirkman and Allard's franchise. But this time, they have: Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin's one-shot, The Walking Dead: The Alien. This is available on the creators' Panel Syndicate website, and as with the other titles you'll find there -- e.g., The Private Eye and Barrier -- this is a pay-what-you-want comic. Gwen does not have much history with The Walking Dead, and she's not a fan of zombie narratives, so she brings a unique perspective to the discussion...and likes what she reads. And as Derek points out, this is a title that will resonate with avid Walking Dead fans and at the same time can hold up outside of any larger narrative context. As if we needed any addition reason to love the creative team of Vaughan and Martin. The Dynamic Doctoral Duo is back for another action-packed episode promising thrills and chills! This time, Gwen and Derek begin by discussing Brecht Evens's  Panther (Drawn and Quarterly), a book that gives a first impression of innocence but then becomes darker and increasingly disturbing as the story develops. Gwen is a scholar of children's literature, and she points out that Evens follows many of the tropes found in picture books, and his style -- what you'd find in his earlier works, The Wrong Place and The Making Of -- may even lead readers to see this as one. But she argues that Panther is anything but a text for younger readers. Evens's penchant for watercolor and his borderless panel style make this a most sophisticated narrative, one with no easy answers and ending in ambiguity.

Next, Derek and Gwen transition into yet another portal narrative, Gene Ha's Mae #1 (Dark Horse Comics). In this new creator-owned series, which began last year as a Kickstarter, the titular character's older sister, Abbie, has discovered a way into another world and often absents herself from her family. But Abbie's fantastical getaway begins to insert itself into the mundane world, initiating events that are sure to carry the  homebody Mae into unexpected adventures. This is Ha's first attempt at both writing and illustrating in a longer narrative form, and it's a series that both cohosts plan on returning to in the months to come.

Finally, the two wrap up by doing something that has not yet been done on The Comics Alternative: reviewing a Walking Dead title. As much as Derek enjoys the popular comic-book series and the TV show, they've just never had the opportunity to discuss a beginning point or something standalone from Kirkman and Allard's franchise. But this time, they have: Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin's one-shot, The Walking Dead: The Alien. This is available on the creators' Panel Syndicate website, and as with the other titles you'll find there -- e.g., The Private Eye and Barrier -- this is a pay-what-you-want comic. Gwen does not have much history with The Walking Dead, and she's not a fan of zombie narratives, so she brings a unique perspective to the discussion...and likes what she reads. And as Derek points out, this is a title that will resonate with avid Walking Dead fans and at the same time can hold up outside of any larger narrative context. As if we needed any addition reason to love the creative team of Vaughan and Martin.

]]> 5592 no On Location - FCBD 2016 at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-fcbd-2016-at-collected-comics-and-games It’s Free Comic Book Day 2016, and to celebrate the event Derek is back at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about the various offerings for this year. Some of the standout FCBD titles from those gathered around the discussion table are Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom (Arcana), We Can Never Go Home/Young Terrorists (Black Mask Studios), ROM (IDW Publishing), One-Punch Man/My Hero Academia(VIZ Media), Oddly Normal (Image Comics), Civil War II (Marvel Comics), The Phantom (Hermes Press), and Serenity/Hellboy/Aliens (Dark Horse Comics). Artist and friend-of-the-show Andy Hirsch joins the conversation for a while and talks about some of his favorites, including Science Comics (First Second) and Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics). He also shares some behind-the-scenes information about his work on the miniseries The Baker Street Peculiars and his new book, Varmints, coming out this fall from First Second. And Derek also highlights some of his favorite FCBD selections from this year, including March (Top Shelf),   Mooncop/A Tom Gauld Sampler (Drawn and Quarterly), Hilda/Akissi/Fantasy Sports (Nobrow Press), and the great collections from BOOM! Studios, United Plankton Pictures (AKA, Spongebob), Z2 Comics, and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. There’s a lot packed into this on-location episode, so get past the ambient noise of the crowds and jump into the fun comics talk offered here! Mon, 09 May 2016 15:41:57 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Krazy Komics Krowds It’s Free Comic Book Day 2016, and to celebrate the event Derek is back at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about the various offerings for this year. Some of the standout FCBD titles from those gathered around the discussion table are Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom (Arcana), We Can Never Go Home/Young Terrorists (Black Mask Studios), ROM (IDW Publishing), One-Punch Man/My Hero Academia(VIZ Media), Oddly Normal (Image Comics), Civil War II (Marvel Comics), The Phantom (Hermes Press), and Serenity/Hellboy/Aliens (Dark Horse Comics). Artist and friend-of-the-show Andy Hirsch joins the conversation for a while and talks about some of his favorites, including Science Comics (First Second) and Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics). He also shares some behind-the-scenes information about his work on the miniseries The Baker Street Peculiars and his new book, Varmints, coming out this fall from First Second. And Derek also highlights some of his favorite FCBD selections from this year, including March (Top Shelf),   Mooncop/A Tom Gauld Sampler (Drawn and Quarterly), Hilda/Akissi/Fantasy Sports (Nobrow Press), and the great collections from BOOM! Studios, United Plankton Pictures (AKA, Spongebob), Z2 Comics, and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. There’s a lot packed into this on-location episode, so get past the ambient noise of the crowds and jump into the fun comics talk offered here! It’s Free Comic Book Day 2016, and to celebrate the event Derek is back at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about the various offerings for this year. Some of the standout FCBD titles from those gathered around the discussion table are Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom (Arcana), We Can Never Go Home/Young Terrorists (Black Mask Studios), ROM (IDW Publishing), One-Punch Man/My Hero Academia(VIZ Media), Oddly Normal (Image Comics), Civil War II (Marvel Comics), The Phantom (Hermes Press), and Serenity/Hellboy/Aliens (Dark Horse Comics). Artist and friend-of-the-show Andy Hirsch joins the conversation for a while and talks about some of his favorites, including Science Comics (First Second) and Love and Rockets (Fantagraphics). He also shares some behind-the-scenes information about his work on the miniseries The Baker Street Peculiars and his new book, Varmints, coming out this fall from First Second. And Derek also highlights some of his favorite FCBD selections from this year, including March (Top Shelf),   Mooncop/A Tom Gauld Sampler (Drawn and Quarterly), Hilda/Akissi/Fantasy Sports (Nobrow Press), and the great collections from BOOM! Studios, United Plankton Pictures (AKA, Spongebob), Z2 Comics, and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. There’s a lot packed into this on-location episode, so get past the ambient noise of the crowds and jump into the fun comics talk offered here!

]]> 5650 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Mike Dawson http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-mike-dawson On this episode of the interview series -- the very first for cohost Paul Lai! -- the Two Guys with PhDs are pleased to have as their guest Mike Dawson. His latest book, Rules for Dating My Daughter: The Modern Father's Guide to Good Parenting, comes out on May 10th from Uncivilized Books, and our fearless cohosts talk with Mike about his project's journey from Tumblr, to Kickstarter, to finished book. One of the things they discuss early on is the fact that Rules for Dating My Daughter is not one of those gun-hugging "hurt my daughter, and I will hurt you" kind of books you'd expect from the cover image. In it, Mike lays bare his thoughts on the responsibilities of fatherhood (and not just for his daughter) and how those concerns relate to larger-world issues. The book is episodic in nature, comprising fifteen short strips focusing on such topics as gender roles, violence in America, religious observance, global warming, carnivorism, and cultural intolerance...and all filtered through parental concerns. Paul and Derek ask Mike about the genesis of this project and how it's significantly different from his previous books, Troop 142 and Angie Bongiolatti (both published by Secret Acres). At the same time, the tone of the new book isn't dissimilar from those works, and, in fact, one could argue that in Rules for Dating My Daughter, Mike is bringing together the themes of the earlier works -- both political and familial -- and combing them with the autobiographic approach established in his first book, Freddy and Me. And toward the end of the interview, the guys ask Mike about his work as a podcaster cohosting Ink Panthers with Alex Robinson and heading up TCJ Talkies. All in all, the guys have a great time talking with their guest about his art, his thoughts on the industry, and the current state of our culture...as only a dad could do. Fri, 06 May 2016 15:21:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fathers' Day On this episode of the interview series -- the very first for cohost Paul Lai! -- the Two Guys with PhDs are pleased to have as their guest Mike Dawson. His latest book, Rules for Dating My Daughter: The Modern Father's Guide to Good Parenting, comes out on May 10th from Uncivilized Books, and our fearless cohosts talk with Mike about his project's journey from Tumblr, to Kickstarter, to finished book. One of the things they discuss early on is the fact that Rules for Dating My Daughter is not one of those gun-hugging "hurt my daughter, and I will hurt you" kind of books you'd expect from the cover image. In it, Mike lays bare his thoughts on the responsibilities of fatherhood (and not just for his daughter) and how those concerns relate to larger-world issues. The book is episodic in nature, comprising fifteen short strips focusing on such topics as gender roles, violence in America, religious observance, global warming, carnivorism, and cultural intolerance...and all filtered through parental concerns. Paul and Derek ask Mike about the genesis of this project and how it's significantly different from his previous books, Troop 142 and Angie Bongiolatti (both published by Secret Acres). At the same time, the tone of the new book isn't dissimilar from those works, and, in fact, one could argue that in Rules for Dating My Daughter, Mike is bringing together the themes of the earlier works -- both political and familial -- and combing them with the autobiographic approach established in his first book, Freddy and Me. And toward the end of the interview, the guys ask Mike about his work as a podcaster cohosting Ink Panthers with Alex Robinson and heading up TCJ Talkies. All in all, the guys have a great time talking with their guest about his art, his thoughts on the industry, and the current state of our culture...as only a dad could do. On this episode of the interview series -- the very first for cohost Paul Lai! -- the Two Guys with PhDs are pleased to have as their guest Mike Dawson. His latest book, Rules for Dating My Daughter: The Modern Father's Guide to Good Parenting, comes out on May 10th from Uncivilized Books, and our fearless cohosts talk with Mike about his project's journey from Tumblr, to Kickstarter, to finished book. One of the things they discuss early on is the fact that Rules for Dating My Daughter is not one of those gun-hugging "hurt my daughter, and I will hurt you" kind of books you'd expect from the cover image. In it, Mike lays bare his thoughts on the responsibilities of fatherhood (and not just for his daughter) and how those concerns relate to larger-world issues. The book is episodic in nature, comprising fifteen short strips focusing on such topics as gender roles, violence in America, religious observance, global warming, carnivorism, and cultural intolerance...and all filtered through parental concerns. Paul and Derek ask Mike about the genesis of this project and how it's significantly different from his previous books, Troop 142 and Angie Bongiolatti (both published by Secret Acres). At the same time, the tone of the new book isn't dissimilar from those works, and, in fact, one could argue that in Rules for Dating My Daughter, Mike is bringing together the themes of the earlier works -- both political and familial -- and combing them with the autobiographic approach established in his first book, Freddy and Me. And toward the end of the interview, the guys ask Mike about his work as a podcaster cohosting Ink Panthers with Alex Robinson and heading up TCJ Talkies. All in all, the guys have a great time talking with their guest about his art, his thoughts on the industry, and the current state of our culture...as only a dad could do.

]]> 4791 no Episode 186 - The May Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-186-the-may-previews-catalog Hold on to your butts! It's another substantive, jam-packed episode where the Two Guys look through the latest Previews catalog. And for May, Andy W. and Derek see a lot of good stuff, enough to make this a longer-than-average episode. (Yes, the guys are going into 2+ hours territory again, but only slightly.) Among the many solicits Andy and Derek highlight are of titles from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Black Hammer #1 (again!), Angel Catbird, and The Battles of Bridget Lee DC/Vertigo - The Hellblazer: Rebirth #1, American Vampire Anthology #2, and Fables: The Deluxe Edition, Book 13 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - ROM #1, Snake Tales!, Love Addict: Confessions of a Serial Dater, and Dirty Duck Image Comics - Snotgirl #1, Throwaways #1, and The Hunt #1 Action Lab - The House of Montresor AfterShock - Captain Kid #1 and Lifespanners #1 Alternative Comics - Flashed: Sudden Stories in Comics and Prose, Terra Flats #1, and True Stories #2 Archie Comics - Betty and Veronica #1 and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - The Experts BOOM! Studios - Sombra #1 and Adventure Time Comics #1 Canton Street Press - Blood Is the Harvest #16 (Replica Edition) Chapterhouse Comics - Johnny Canuck: Compendium 1941-1946 Dover Publications - The Boys of Sheriff Street Fantagraphics Books - Neat Stuff, Garden of Flesh, and Hip Hop Family Tree Book 4: 1984-1985 First Second - Last Man, Vol. 5: The Order Humanoids - I Am Legion and Milo Manara's Gullivera Deluxe  Jet City Comics - Cirque American: Girl over Paris #1 Kodansha Comics - Appleseed Alpha, Vol. 1 Nobrow Press - Einstein Odod Books/Uncivilized Books - The Whistling Factory Titan Comics - Torchwood #1 and The Best of B.C. Vanguard Productions - The Sensuous Frazetta VIZ Media - Monster: The Perfect Edition, Vol. 9 Stone Bridge Press - The Osamu Tezuka Story: A Life in Manga and Anime In addition, Derek and Andy discuss other matters, including a correction from last week's publisher spotlight -- Melissa Mendes's Lou is actually an Alternative Comics publication, not from Hic + Hoc -- and an email of appreciation they received from Jon Allen whose book, Ohio Is for Sale, was discussed in that same episode. They also talk a little bit about this coming weekend's Free Comic Book Day, wonder over the new Image+ insert magazine (and Andy is pissed that he didn't get one with his copy of Previews), poke fun at Millarworld, and point out the truly freaky and absolutely unnecessary Big Head Walking Dead figures they saw in the catalog. Wed, 04 May 2016 13:32:08 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Big Heads Hold on to your butts! It's another substantive, jam-packed episode where the Two Guys look through the latest Previews catalog. And for May, Andy W. and Derek see a lot of good stuff, enough to make this a longer-than-average episode. (Yes, the guys are going into 2+ hours territory again, but only slightly.) Among the many solicits Andy and Derek highlight are of titles from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Black Hammer #1 (again!), Angel Catbird, and The Battles of Bridget Lee DC/Vertigo - The Hellblazer: Rebirth #1, American Vampire Anthology #2, and Fables: The Deluxe Edition, Book 13 IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - ROM #1, Snake Tales!, Love Addict: Confessions of a Serial Dater, and Dirty Duck Image Comics - Snotgirl #1, Throwaways #1, and The Hunt #1 Action Lab - The House of Montresor AfterShock - Captain Kid #1 and Lifespanners #1 Alternative Comics - Flashed: Sudden Stories in Comics and Prose, Terra Flats #1, and True Stories #2 Archie Comics - Betty and Veronica #1 and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - The Experts BOOM! Studios - Sombra #1 and Adventure Time Comics #1 Canton Street Press - Blood Is the Harvest #16 (Replica Edition) Chapterhouse Comics - Johnny Canuck: Compendium 1941-1946 Dover Publications - The Boys of Sheriff Street Fantagraphics Books - Neat Stuff, Garden of Flesh, and Hip Hop Family Tree Book 4: 1984-1985 First Second - Last Man, Vol. 5: The Order Humanoids - I Am Legion and Milo Manara's Gullivera Deluxe  Jet City Comics - Cirque American: Girl over Paris #1 Kodansha Comics - Appleseed Alpha, Vol. 1 Nobrow Press - Einstein Odod Books/Uncivilized Books - The Whistling Factory Titan Comics - Torchwood #1 and The Best of B.C. Vanguard Productions - The Sensuous Frazetta VIZ Media - Monster: The Perfect Edition, Vol. 9 Stone Bridge Press - The Osamu Tezuka Story: A Life in Manga and Anime In addition, Derek and Andy discuss other matters, including a correction from last week's publisher spotlight -- Melissa Mendes's Lou is actually an Alternative Comics publication, not from Hic + Hoc -- and an email of appreciation they received from Jon Allen whose book, Ohio Is for Sale, was discussed in that same episode. They also talk a little bit about this coming weekend's Free Comic Book Day, wonder over the new Image+ insert magazine (and Andy is pissed that he didn't get one with his copy of Previews), poke fun at Millarworld, and point out the truly freaky and absolutely unnecessary Big Head Walking Dead figures they saw in the catalog. Hold on to your butts! It's another substantive, jam-packed episode where the Two Guys look through the latest Previews catalog. And for May, Andy W. and Derek see a lot of good stuff, enough to make this a longer-than-average episode. (Yes, the guys are going into 2+ hours territory again, but only slightly.) Among the many solicits Andy and Derek highlight are of titles from publishers such as

In addition, Derek and Andy discuss other matters, including a correction from last week's publisher spotlight -- Melissa Mendes's Lou is actually an Alternative Comics publication, not from Hic + Hoc -- and an email of appreciation they received from Jon Allen whose book, Ohio Is for Sale, was discussed in that same episode. They also talk a little bit about this coming weekend's Free Comic Book Day, wonder over the new Image+ insert magazine (and Andy is pissed that he didn't get one with his copy of Previews), poke fun at Millarworld, and point out the truly freaky and absolutely unnecessary Big Head Walking Dead figures they saw in the catalog.

]]> 7742 no Comics Alternative Interviews: Chester Brown http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-chester-brown It's not often that Chester Brown comes out with a new book, but his latest, Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus, was released last month from Drawn & Quarterly...giving the Two Guys with PhDs an occasion to celebrate. And compounding that celebratory spirit is the fact that the artist is now appearing on The Comics Alternative podcast! In this episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have Chester as their guest, where they talk with him about his new book, the research that went into it, and the reaction he's been getting from readers and critics. Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus is a series of adaptations of Old and New Testament texts as they relate to prostitution and religious observance. In it, Chester interprets the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, Mary of Bethany, and Mary, mother of Jesus, along with other narratives that surround Book of Genesis, the Gospel of Matthew, and the Parables of the Talents and the Prodigal Son. What all of these explorations have in common, and what Chester makes clear during the interview, is how all inform a reading of scripture surrounding sex workers. The guys talk with their guest about these issues and how his previous works -- Paying for It as well as his earlier comics adapting the Gospels of both Mark and Matthew -- may have laid the groundwork for the current study. Much of the conversation is spent on Chester's almost-lifelong research into biblical scholarship, especially as it comes out in the extensive notes he includes in Mary Wept...hand-written annotations that take up almost a third of his book! But Andy and Derek also ask Chester about his earlier comics, such as Ed the Happy Clown, The Playboy, and Louis Riel, the death of serialization within small-press comics, and his single-panel method of composition. In other words, the guys cover a lot of ground during this interview. But as Derek and Andy point out toward the end of this episode, there was some interesting conversation that took place after the guys turned off their recording devices. But fret not; Derek was able to capture some of that talk once they realized how appropriate it would have been in their recorded interview. So if you listen all the way through to the very end of this episode, after the closing theme music, you'll be able to hear a few comments as an extra added bonus. Much thanks, not only to Chester Brown, but to Sook-Yin Lee who helped to make this interview possible by providing her Skype account (and who can be heard in the background toward the end of the podcast preparing dinner). Mon, 02 May 2016 13:29:10 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sex and the Single Girl It's not often that Chester Brown comes out with a new book, but his latest, Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus, was released last month from Drawn & Quarterly...giving the Two Guys with PhDs an occasion to celebrate. And compounding that celebratory spirit is the fact that the artist is now appearing on The Comics Alternative podcast! In this episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have Chester as their guest, where they talk with him about his new book, the research that went into it, and the reaction he's been getting from readers and critics. Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus is a series of adaptations of Old and New Testament texts as they relate to prostitution and religious observance. In it, Chester interprets the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, Mary of Bethany, and Mary, mother of Jesus, along with other narratives that surround Book of Genesis, the Gospel of Matthew, and the Parables of the Talents and the Prodigal Son. What all of these explorations have in common, and what Chester makes clear during the interview, is how all inform a reading of scripture surrounding sex workers. The guys talk with their guest about these issues and how his previous works -- Paying for It as well as his earlier comics adapting the Gospels of both Mark and Matthew -- may have laid the groundwork for the current study. Much of the conversation is spent on Chester's almost-lifelong research into biblical scholarship, especially as it comes out in the extensive notes he includes in Mary Wept...hand-written annotations that take up almost a third of his book! But Andy and Derek also ask Chester about his earlier comics, such as Ed the Happy Clown, The Playboy, and Louis Riel, the death of serialization within small-press comics, and his single-panel method of composition. In other words, the guys cover a lot of ground during this interview. But as Derek and Andy point out toward the end of this episode, there was some interesting conversation that took place after the guys turned off their recording devices. But fret not; Derek was able to capture some of that talk once they realized how appropriate it would have been in their recorded interview. So if you listen all the way through to the very end of this episode, after the closing theme music, you'll be able to hear a few comments as an extra added bonus. Much thanks, not only to Chester Brown, but to Sook-Yin Lee who helped to make this interview possible by providing her Skype account (and who can be heard in the background toward the end of the podcast preparing dinner). It's not often that Chester Brown comes out with a new book, but his latest, Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus, was released last month from Drawn & Quarterly...giving the Two Guys with PhDs an occasion to celebrate. And compounding that celebratory spirit is the fact that the artist is now appearing on The Comics Alternative podcast! In this episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have Chester as their guest, where they talk with him about his new book, the research that went into it, and the reaction he's been getting from readers and critics. Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus is a series of adaptations of Old and New Testament texts as they relate to prostitution and religious observance. In it, Chester interprets the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, Mary of Bethany, and Mary, mother of Jesus, along with other narratives that surround Book of Genesis, the Gospel of Matthew, and the Parables of the Talents and the Prodigal Son. What all of these explorations have in common, and what Chester makes clear during the interview, is how all inform a reading of scripture surrounding sex workers. The guys talk with their guest about these issues and how his previous works -- Paying for It as well as his earlier comics adapting the Gospels of both Mark and Matthew -- may have laid the groundwork for the current study. Much of the conversation is spent on Chester's almost-lifelong research into biblical scholarship, especially as it comes out in the extensive notes he includes in Mary Wept...hand-written annotations that take up almost a third of his book! But Andy and Derek also ask Chester about his earlier comics, such as Ed the Happy Clown, The Playboy, and Louis Riel, the death of serialization within small-press comics, and his single-panel method of composition. In other words, the guys cover a lot of ground during this interview. But as Derek and Andy point out toward the end of this episode, there was some interesting conversation that took place after the guys turned off their recording devices. But fret not; Derek was able to capture some of that talk once they realized how appropriate it would have been in their recorded interview. So if you listen all the way through to the very end of this episode, after the closing theme music, you'll be able to hear a few comments as an extra added bonus.

Much thanks, not only to Chester Brown, but to Sook-Yin Lee who helped to make this interview possible by providing her Skype account (and who can be heard in the background toward the end of the podcast preparing dinner).

]]> 4408 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Tony Cliff http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-tony-cliff On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Tony Cliff, the creative mind behind the Delilah Dirk series. His latest book, Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, was released last month from First Second. In the interview, our adventurous podcast explorers ask Tony about the genesis behind the series, the influence of Jane Austen novels and films like Raiders of the Lost Ark, Delilah Dirk's original appearance in Kazu Kibuish's Flight series, the challenges of writing historical fiction, and how Tony's background in animation has translated itself into his comics. They not only discuss his most recent book, but also his earlier works, Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant (which Andy Wolverton reviewed for the blog back in 2013) and the short ebook, Delilah Dirk and the Seeds of Good Fortune. But the conversation goes into other directions, as well, such as when Tony brings up the topic of serialization and reading preferences. What doesn't make the recording, unfortunately, is an interesting discussion on a label that is most apt for the Delilah Dirk titles, "all-age comics." That was a conversation that Tony had with Gwen and Derek after they concluded the interview and turned off the recorder. Still, there's more than enough packed into what was actually captured, enough Delilah Dirk talk to last you until the publication of Tony's next exciting installment. Sat, 30 Apr 2016 21:35:35 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Saturday Morning Cartoons On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Tony Cliff, the creative mind behind the Delilah Dirk series. His latest book, Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, was released last month from First Second. In the interview, our adventurous podcast explorers ask Tony about the genesis behind the series, the influence of Jane Austen novels and films like Raiders of the Lost Ark, Delilah Dirk's original appearance in Kazu Kibuish's Flight series, the challenges of writing historical fiction, and how Tony's background in animation has translated itself into his comics. They not only discuss his most recent book, but also his earlier works, Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant (which Andy Wolverton reviewed for the blog back in 2013) and the short ebook, Delilah Dirk and the Seeds of Good Fortune. But the conversation goes into other directions, as well, such as when Tony brings up the topic of serialization and reading preferences. What doesn't make the recording, unfortunately, is an interesting discussion on a label that is most apt for the Delilah Dirk titles, "all-age comics." That was a conversation that Tony had with Gwen and Derek after they concluded the interview and turned off the recorder. Still, there's more than enough packed into what was actually captured, enough Delilah Dirk talk to last you until the publication of Tony's next exciting installment. On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Tony Cliff, the creative mind behind the Delilah Dirk series. His latest book, Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, was released last month from First Second. In the interview, our adventurous podcast explorers ask Tony about the genesis behind the series, the influence of Jane Austen novels and films like Raiders of the Lost Ark, Delilah Dirk's original appearance in Kazu Kibuish's Flight series, the challenges of writing historical fiction, and how Tony's background in animation has translated itself into his comics. They not only discuss his most recent book, but also his earlier works, Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant (which Andy Wolverton reviewed for the blog back in 2013) and the short ebook, Delilah Dirk and the Seeds of Good Fortune. But the conversation goes into other directions, as well, such as when Tony brings up the topic of serialization and reading preferences. What doesn't make the recording, unfortunately, is an interesting discussion on a label that is most apt for the Delilah Dirk titles, "all-age comics." That was a conversation that Tony had with Gwen and Derek after they concluded the interview and turned off the recorder. Still, there's more than enough packed into what was actually captured, enough Delilah Dirk talk to last you until the publication of Tony's next exciting installment.

]]> 5613 no Manga - Reviews of Princess Jellyfish, Vol. 1 and I Am a Hero Omnibus 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-princess-jellyfish-vol-1-and-i-am-a-hero-omnibus-1 This month, Shea and Derek have a fun time discussing two recent manga releases. They begin with the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish (Kodansha), a series that is new to both of the guys. In fact, Derek comments that he might not have given this title a try if they hadn't decided to discuss it for the podcast. Given the "princess" part of the book, he had wondered if this might not be too cute for him, a fluffy shojo title that may not appeal to him (while at the same time, admitting that he might be shortsighted). But as the guys discuss, Princess Jellyfish is anything but insubstantial. It's a multi-layered story exploring friendships, gender identity, and fandom. Yet, "fandom" isn't the right word when discussing this manga, and Shea and Derek spend a good deal of time understanding the character and behavioral nuances that Higashimura weaves into her narrative, supplemented by a useful glossary that she include in the back of the book. This is definitely a title that both of the guys will continue reading in the months to come. Next, they look at a completely different kind of manga, the first omnibus volume of Kengo Hanazawa's I Am a Hero (Dark Horse Manga). This book has been getting a good deal of press, especially given its apparent similarity to The Walking Dead. In fact, Derek and Shea discuss the expectations surrounding I Am a Hero and how calling it "zombie manga" may be a lazy way of categorizing this series. At least in this first volume, there is much more to Hanazawa's story that the undead rising. I Am a Hero is also a self-aware meditation on the place of manga in our culture, with the book's protagonist, Hideo Suzuki, serving as its focalizing agent. Plus, there are many unanswered questions surrounding Hideo, non-zombie-based, that makes us question his reliability. And as Shea and Derek point out, it's not entirely certain where Hanazawa's sympathies actually lie regarding his hero...and that's a good thing, at least for Derek, who appreciates ambiguity and authorial distance. Shea suspects that next volumes of the series will more firmly embed themselves in the zombie side of the story, although Derek is hoping that won't entirely be the case. Time will tell. This is also the one-year anniversary of The Comics Alternative's manga series. So celebrate with them and let them know what you think of their episodes! Fri, 29 Apr 2016 16:55:06 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Hip and now” This month, Shea and Derek have a fun time discussing two recent manga releases. They begin with the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish (Kodansha), a series that is new to both of the guys. In fact, Derek comments that he might not have given this title a try if they hadn't decided to discuss it for the podcast. Given the "princess" part of the book, he had wondered if this might not be too cute for him, a fluffy shojo title that may not appeal to him (while at the same time, admitting that he might be shortsighted). But as the guys discuss, Princess Jellyfish is anything but insubstantial. It's a multi-layered story exploring friendships, gender identity, and fandom. Yet, "fandom" isn't the right word when discussing this manga, and Shea and Derek spend a good deal of time understanding the character and behavioral nuances that Higashimura weaves into her narrative, supplemented by a useful glossary that she include in the back of the book. This is definitely a title that both of the guys will continue reading in the months to come. Next, they look at a completely different kind of manga, the first omnibus volume of Kengo Hanazawa's I Am a Hero (Dark Horse Manga). This book has been getting a good deal of press, especially given its apparent similarity to The Walking Dead. In fact, Derek and Shea discuss the expectations surrounding I Am a Hero and how calling it "zombie manga" may be a lazy way of categorizing this series. At least in this first volume, there is much more to Hanazawa's story that the undead rising. I Am a Hero is also a self-aware meditation on the place of manga in our culture, with the book's protagonist, Hideo Suzuki, serving as its focalizing agent. Plus, there are many unanswered questions surrounding Hideo, non-zombie-based, that makes us question his reliability. And as Shea and Derek point out, it's not entirely certain where Hanazawa's sympathies actually lie regarding his hero...and that's a good thing, at least for Derek, who appreciates ambiguity and authorial distance. Shea suspects that next volumes of the series will more firmly embed themselves in the zombie side of the story, although Derek is hoping that won't entirely be the case. Time will tell. This is also the one-year anniversary of The Comics Alternative's manga series. So celebrate with them and let them know what you think of their episodes! This month, Shea and Derek have a fun time discussing two recent manga releases. They begin with the first volume of Akiko Higashimura's Princess Jellyfish (Kodansha), a series that is new to both of the guys. In fact, Derek comments that he might not have given this title a try if they hadn't decided to discuss it for the podcast. Given the "princess" part of the book, he had wondered if this might not be too cute for him, a fluffy shojo title that may not appeal to him (while at the same time, admitting that he might be shortsighted). But as the guys discuss, Princess Jellyfish is anything but insubstantial. It's a multi-layered story exploring friendships, gender identity, and fandom. Yet, "fandom" isn't the right word when discussing this manga, and Shea and Derek spend a good deal of time understanding the character and behavioral nuances that Higashimura weaves into her narrative, supplemented by a useful glossary that she include in the back of the book. This is definitely a title that both of the guys will continue reading in the months to come. Next, they look at a completely different kind of manga, the first omnibus volume of Kengo Hanazawa's I Am a Hero (Dark Horse Manga). This book has been getting a good deal of press, especially given its apparent similarity to The Walking Dead. In fact, Derek and Shea discuss the expectations surrounding I Am a Hero and how calling it "zombie manga" may be a lazy way of categorizing this series. At least in this first volume, there is much more to Hanazawa's story that the undead rising. I Am a Hero is also a self-aware meditation on the place of manga in our culture, with the book's protagonist, Hideo Suzuki, serving as its focalizing agent. Plus, there are many unanswered questions surrounding Hideo, non-zombie-based, that makes us question his reliability. And as Shea and Derek point out, it's not entirely certain where Hanazawa's sympathies actually lie regarding his hero...and that's a good thing, at least for Derek, who appreciates ambiguity and authorial distance. Shea suspects that next volumes of the series will more firmly embed themselves in the zombie side of the story, although Derek is hoping that won't entirely be the case. Time will tell.

This is also the one-year anniversary of The Comics Alternative's manga series. So celebrate with them and let them know what you think of their episodes!

]]> 4592 no Episode 185 - A Publisher Spotlight on Alternative Comics and It’s Small Press Co-op http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-185-a-publisher-spotlight-on-alternative-comics-and-its-small-press-co-op This week the Two Guys with PhDs focus a critical spotlight on the spring releases coming out from Alternative Comics and the other small presses that are part of its distribution co-operative, Floating World Comics, Hic + Hoc Productions, Study Group Comics, and Press Gang. This is a jam-packed episode and longer than usual, a discussion that covers eighteen different titles among the five indie presses. Before they jump directly into the comics, though, Derek has a brief conversation with Marc Arsenault, the publisher of Alternative Comics and one of the ringleaders of the co-operative. He asks Marc about the origins of the press, its relaunch in 2012, its distribution agreement with the other indie publishers, and what readers could anticipate coming out of Alternative Comics in the months to come. After that introductory interview, Andy W. and Derek begin discussing the individual titles some out this spring, and organizing their conversation by publisher. These books include: Alternative Comics Incomplete Works, by Dylan Horrocks The Sequential Artists Workshop Guide to Creating Professional Comic Strips, by Tom Hart From Now On, by Malachi Ward Compulsive Comics, by Eric Haven Chainmail Bikini: The Anthology of Women Gamers, edited by Hazel Newlevant Ohio Is for Sale, by Jon Allen Lou, by Melissa Mendes Floating World Comics Test Tube, by Carlos Gonzalez Scab County, by Carlos Gonzalez Winners, by Anna Ehrlemark Jonny Negron Selected Works 2012-2013, by Jonny Negron Bartkira: Nuclear Edition, edited by James Harvey and Alex Jaffe Video Tonfa, by Tim Goodyear Hic + Hoc Productions Why Would You Do That?, by Andrea Tsurumi Street Dawgz, by Lizz Lunny Study Group Comics Titan #1, #2, #3, by François Vigneault Vile #1, Tyler Landry Press Gang Sun Bakery #1, Corey Lewis As Andy and Derek mention in the show, this has been a spotlight episode they've been wanting to do for some time. The guys are truly excited to talk about the new releases coming out from Alternative Comics (and its co-op partners)...and not just this publisher's name is an inversion of the podcast title. Wed, 27 Apr 2016 20:34:56 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Inversion This week the Two Guys with PhDs focus a critical spotlight on the spring releases coming out from Alternative Comics and the other small presses that are part of its distribution co-operative, Floating World Comics, Hic + Hoc Productions, Study Group Comics, and Press Gang. This is a jam-packed episode and longer than usual, a discussion that covers eighteen different titles among the five indie presses. Before they jump directly into the comics, though, Derek has a brief conversation with Marc Arsenault, the publisher of Alternative Comics and one of the ringleaders of the co-operative. He asks Marc about the origins of the press, its relaunch in 2012, its distribution agreement with the other indie publishers, and what readers could anticipate coming out of Alternative Comics in the months to come. After that introductory interview, Andy W. and Derek begin discussing the individual titles some out this spring, and organizing their conversation by publisher. These books include: Alternative Comics Incomplete Works, by Dylan Horrocks The Sequential Artists Workshop Guide to Creating Professional Comic Strips, by Tom Hart From Now On, by Malachi Ward Compulsive Comics, by Eric Haven Chainmail Bikini: The Anthology of Women Gamers, edited by Hazel Newlevant Ohio Is for Sale, by Jon Allen Lou, by Melissa Mendes Floating World Comics Test Tube, by Carlos Gonzalez Scab County, by Carlos Gonzalez Winners, by Anna Ehrlemark Jonny Negron Selected Works 2012-2013, by Jonny Negron Bartkira: Nuclear Edition, edited by James Harvey and Alex Jaffe Video Tonfa, by Tim Goodyear Hic + Hoc Productions Why Would You Do That?, by Andrea Tsurumi Street Dawgz, by Lizz Lunny Study Group Comics Titan #1, #2, #3, by François Vigneault Vile #1, Tyler Landry Press Gang Sun Bakery #1, Corey Lewis As Andy and Derek mention in the show, this has been a spotlight episode they've been wanting to do for some time. The guys are truly excited to talk about the new releases coming out from Alternative Comics (and its co-op partners)...and not just this publisher's name is an inversion of the podcast title. This week the Two Guys with PhDs focus a critical spotlight on the spring releases coming out from Alternative Comics and the other small presses that are part of its distribution co-operative, Floating World Comics, Hic + Hoc Productions, Study Group Comics, and Press Gang. This is a jam-packed episode and longer than usual, a discussion that covers eighteen different titles among the five indie presses. Before they jump directly into the comics, though, Derek has a brief conversation with Marc Arsenault, the publisher of Alternative Comics and one of the ringleaders of the co-operative. He asks Marc about the origins of the press, its relaunch in 2012, its distribution agreement with the other indie publishers, and what readers could anticipate coming out of Alternative Comics in the months to come. After that introductory interview, Andy W. and Derek begin discussing the individual titles some out this spring, and organizing their conversation by publisher. These books include:

Alternative Comics

Floating World Comics

Hic + Hoc Productions

Study Group Comics

  • Titan #1, #2, #3, by François Vigneault
  • Vile #1, Tyler Landry

Press Gang

As Andy and Derek mention in the show, this has been a spotlight episode they've been wanting to do for some time. The guys are truly excited to talk about the new releases coming out from Alternative Comics (and its co-op partners)...and not just this publisher's name is an inversion of the podcast title.

]]> 8243 no Nominate THE COMICS ALTERNATIVE for the 2016 Podcast Awards http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/nominate-the-comics-alternative-for-the-2016-podcast-awards Hi everyone. Just a quick message to say that we’d like for you to nominate The Comics Alternative for the 2016 Podcast Awards. Please go to http://podcastawards.com and nominate us for the "People’s Choice" award and one other category…”Arts” seems to be one of the better fits for our podcast. The nominations close on April 30th, so be sure to make your voice heard now. We know that there are a lot of you dedicated listeners out there, and we appreciate your support. Again, go to http://podcastawards.com and nominate The Comics Alternative under the “People’s Choice” and “Arts” categories. Thanks! Sat, 23 Apr 2016 23:00:28 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Make Your Voice Heard! Hi everyone. Just a quick message to say that we’d like for you to nominate The Comics Alternative for the 2016 Podcast Awards. Please go to http://podcastawards.com and nominate us for the "People’s Choice" award and one other category…”Arts” seems to be one of the better fits for our podcast. The nominations close on April 30th, so be sure to make your voice heard now. We know that there are a lot of you dedicated listeners out there, and we appreciate your support. Again, go to http://podcastawards.com and nominate The Comics Alternative under the “People’s Choice” and “Arts” categories. Thanks! Hi everyone. Just a quick message to say that we’d like for you to nominate The Comics Alternative for the 2016 Podcast Awards. Please go to http://podcastawards.com and nominate us for the "People’s Choice" award and one other category…”Arts” seems to be one of the better fits for our podcast. The nominations close on April 30th, so be sure to make your voice heard now. We know that there are a lot of you dedicated listeners out there, and we appreciate your support. Again, go to http://podcastawards.com and nominate The Comics Alternative under the “People’s Choice” and “Arts” categories. Thanks!

]]> 97 no On Location - The April Visit to Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-april-visit-to-collected-comics-and-games Another month, and another visit to Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. For the April on-location episode, the topic is open, so Derek talks with customers and employees about whatever comics-related matters come to mind. Sabrina, the shop's manager, begins by discussing the preparations she's making for Free Comic Book Day, and then she gives a rundown of the DC Retailer Roadshow event she attended last week. There, Dan Didio, Jim Lee, and various marketing folk at DC shared their plans for the new Rebirth, explaining the upcoming titles, the creators behind them, and the fact that this is definitely not a reboot. From there the folks sitting around the chat table go on to share their lack of attention to DC titles, although they do have more of an interest in the DC properties that have made their ways to television and animation. They also spend a good bit of time talking about Archie Comics and how that world has been undergoing transformations, from the more au courant trends in the new Archie and Jughead titles, to the Predator and Sharknado crossovers, to the more macabre Afterlife with Archie and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. (Also, Derek is surprised that no one knows about the old Groovie Goolies cartoon.) The recent Eisner Award nominations comes up as a discussion topic, but no one in the shop seems much interested in discussing them. But, of course, since it's Wednesday, everyone talks about the new comics that have just come out and what they've come into the shop specifically to pick up. And that's a lot of comics. As becomes a running theme throughout this episode, there is just isn't enough time to read and watch everything worth reading and watching Fri, 22 Apr 2016 13:21:54 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Matter of Time Another month, and another visit to Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. For the April on-location episode, the topic is open, so Derek talks with customers and employees about whatever comics-related matters come to mind. Sabrina, the shop's manager, begins by discussing the preparations she's making for Free Comic Book Day, and then she gives a rundown of the DC Retailer Roadshow event she attended last week. There, Dan Didio, Jim Lee, and various marketing folk at DC shared their plans for the new Rebirth, explaining the upcoming titles, the creators behind them, and the fact that this is definitely not a reboot. From there the folks sitting around the chat table go on to share their lack of attention to DC titles, although they do have more of an interest in the DC properties that have made their ways to television and animation. They also spend a good bit of time talking about Archie Comics and how that world has been undergoing transformations, from the more au courant trends in the new Archie and Jughead titles, to the Predator and Sharknado crossovers, to the more macabre Afterlife with Archie and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. (Also, Derek is surprised that no one knows about the old Groovie Goolies cartoon.) The recent Eisner Award nominations comes up as a discussion topic, but no one in the shop seems much interested in discussing them. But, of course, since it's Wednesday, everyone talks about the new comics that have just come out and what they've come into the shop specifically to pick up. And that's a lot of comics. As becomes a running theme throughout this episode, there is just isn't enough time to read and watch everything worth reading and watching Another month, and another visit to Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. For the April on-location episode, the topic is open, so Derek talks with customers and employees about whatever comics-related matters come to mind. Sabrina, the shop's manager, begins by discussing the preparations she's making for Free Comic Book Day, and then she gives a rundown of the DC Retailer Roadshow event she attended last week. There, Dan Didio, Jim Lee, and various marketing folk at DC shared their plans for the new Rebirth, explaining the upcoming titles, the creators behind them, and the fact that this is definitely not a reboot. From there the folks sitting around the chat table go on to share their lack of attention to DC titles, although they do have more of an interest in the DC properties that have made their ways to television and animation. They also spend a good bit of time talking about Archie Comics and how that world has been undergoing transformations, from the more au courant trends in the new Archie and Jughead titles, to the Predator and Sharknado crossovers, to the more macabre Afterlife with Archie and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. (Also, Derek is surprised that no one knows about the old Groovie Goolies cartoon.) The recent Eisner Award nominations comes up as a discussion topic, but no one in the shop seems much interested in discussing them. But, of course, since it's Wednesday, everyone talks about the new comics that have just come out and what they've come into the shop specifically to pick up. And that's a lot of comics. As becomes a running theme throughout this episode, there is just isn't enough time to read and watch everything worth reading and watching

]]> 4946 no Episode 184 - Reviews of 5,000 km Per Second, Circuit Breaker #1 & #2, and Dept. H #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-184-reviews-of-5000-km-per-second-circuit-breaker-1-2-and-dept-h-1 This week Gwen and Derek take a look at three new titles, each of which is as visually stunning as it is a great story. They start off with Manuele Fiore's 5,000 km Per Second (Fantagraphics), translated from the Italian by Jamie Richards and winner of both the Grand Prize at the 2010 Lucca Comics Festival and the Best Album at the 2011 Angoulême Comics Festival. Fiore's is a pensive, somber tale of two individuals who become romantically involved but ultimately go in separate directions. The narrative follows each on his or her life trajectory in an episodic manner, where readers become privy to the changes in their inner lives and discover the ultimately elusive nature of closure. Next, Derek and Gwen discuss the first two issues of Circuit Breaker, written by Kevin McCarthy and with art by Kyle Baker. The premise of this new Image Comics series is a futuristic Tokyo where relationships between humans and robots are reaching a tipping point and the story's protagonist, Chiren, is stuck in the middle. The cohosts enjoy the story, but they focus more on Baker's art, his choice of palette, and his unique way of representing sound throughout the comic. Finally, they wrap up this week's episode by diving into the new series by Matt Kindt, Dept. H (Dark Horse Comics). Written and drawn by Matt, and colored beautifully by his wife Sharlene, Dept. H is a mystery thriller that reminds Gwen of the old Ellery Queen TV series from the 1970s. And Derek reads this first issue within the context of Kindt's other detecting narratives, specifically Mind MGMT, Super Spy, and Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes. This appears to be another must-read series from Matt Kindt, and one where getting the individual monthly issues will provide a more complete and immersive experience. Much like Mind MGMT! Wed, 20 Apr 2016 15:13:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Colorful Episode This week Gwen and Derek take a look at three new titles, each of which is as visually stunning as it is a great story. They start off with Manuele Fiore's 5,000 km Per Second (Fantagraphics), translated from the Italian by Jamie Richards and winner of both the Grand Prize at the 2010 Lucca Comics Festival and the Best Album at the 2011 Angoulême Comics Festival. Fiore's is a pensive, somber tale of two individuals who become romantically involved but ultimately go in separate directions. The narrative follows each on his or her life trajectory in an episodic manner, where readers become privy to the changes in their inner lives and discover the ultimately elusive nature of closure. Next, Derek and Gwen discuss the first two issues of Circuit Breaker, written by Kevin McCarthy and with art by Kyle Baker. The premise of this new Image Comics series is a futuristic Tokyo where relationships between humans and robots are reaching a tipping point and the story's protagonist, Chiren, is stuck in the middle. The cohosts enjoy the story, but they focus more on Baker's art, his choice of palette, and his unique way of representing sound throughout the comic. Finally, they wrap up this week's episode by diving into the new series by Matt Kindt, Dept. H (Dark Horse Comics). Written and drawn by Matt, and colored beautifully by his wife Sharlene, Dept. H is a mystery thriller that reminds Gwen of the old Ellery Queen TV series from the 1970s. And Derek reads this first issue within the context of Kindt's other detecting narratives, specifically Mind MGMT, Super Spy, and Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes. This appears to be another must-read series from Matt Kindt, and one where getting the individual monthly issues will provide a more complete and immersive experience. Much like Mind MGMT! This week Gwen and Derek take a look at three new titles, each of which is as visually stunning as it is a great story. They start off with Manuele Fiore's 5,000 km Per Second (Fantagraphics), translated from the Italian by Jamie Richards and winner of both the Grand Prize at the 2010 Lucca Comics Festival and the Best Album at the 2011 Angoulême Comics Festival. Fiore's is a pensive, somber tale of two individuals who become romantically involved but ultimately go in separate directions. The narrative follows each on his or her life trajectory in an episodic manner, where readers become privy to the changes in their inner lives and discover the ultimately elusive nature of closure. Next, Derek and Gwen discuss the first two issues of Circuit Breaker, written by Kevin McCarthy and with art by Kyle Baker. The premise of this new Image Comics series is a futuristic Tokyo where relationships between humans and robots are reaching a tipping point and the story's protagonist, Chiren, is stuck in the middle. The cohosts enjoy the story, but they focus more on Baker's art, his choice of palette, and his unique way of representing sound throughout the comic. Finally, they wrap up this week's episode by diving into the new series by Matt Kindt, Dept. H (Dark Horse Comics). Written and drawn by Matt, and colored beautifully by his wife Sharlene, Dept. H is a mystery thriller that reminds Gwen of the old Ellery Queen TV series from the 1970s. And Derek reads this first issue within the context of Kindt's other detecting narratives, specifically Mind MGMT, Super Spy, and Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes. This appears to be another must-read series from Matt Kindt, and one where getting the individual monthly issues will provide a more complete and immersive experience. Much like Mind MGMT!

]]> 3862 no Webcomics - Reviews of The Meek, O Human Star, and These Memories Won’t Last http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-meek-o-human-star-and-these-memories-wont-last For April, Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics, each a standout in its own way. They begin with Der-shing Helmer's The Meek, the fantastical story of Angora, a young innocent -- even feral -- girl sent on a quest that could save her world. But Angora's isn't the only narrative thread making up this webcomic. We're also introduce to Luca deSadar and his family, rulers of the Northern Territories, and to Soli Areni, a mercenary with a secret to hide and whose jobs aren't always on the lawful side. In the first five chapters of this webcomic, Helmer subtly weaves these storylines together in a way that should become more pronounced as the narrative develops. Next, the guys check out O Human Star, a science fiction tale that's more about relationships and the way we choose to identify ourselves. Blue Delliquanti, its creator, deftly teases out her cast so that they're fully developed individuals whose lives, and dilemmas, become the scaffolding upon which everything rests. The world of O Human Star is a futuristic one, where robotics and artificial intelligence integrate almost seamlessly into human exchanges. And the boundaries between identities is not only limited to that between human and robot. Finally, Derek and Sean consider Stuart Campbell's These Memories Won't Last, a webcomic unlike anything else they've ever discussed. With the help of Lhasa Mencur (on sound design) and programmer Vitaliy Shirokiy, Campbell tells the story of his grandfather as he develops dementia. Whereas both The Meek and O Human Star contained layers of meaning, The Memories Won't Last is primarily defined by its visual layering. As the guys point out, Campbell and company layer the narration of the experience on top of the grandfather's actual story, and then these are overlaid with a ill-defined cloud that can obscure the visuals, much as the grandfather's growing dementia eats away at his memories. This is a short and poignant webcomic, and one that is nominated for a 2016 Webby Award in the NetArt category. And it's something you have to experience yourself to get the full effect. Mon, 18 Apr 2016 16:09:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Layers For April, Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics, each a standout in its own way. They begin with Der-shing Helmer's The Meek, the fantastical story of Angora, a young innocent -- even feral -- girl sent on a quest that could save her world. But Angora's isn't the only narrative thread making up this webcomic. We're also introduce to Luca deSadar and his family, rulers of the Northern Territories, and to Soli Areni, a mercenary with a secret to hide and whose jobs aren't always on the lawful side. In the first five chapters of this webcomic, Helmer subtly weaves these storylines together in a way that should become more pronounced as the narrative develops. Next, the guys check out O Human Star, a science fiction tale that's more about relationships and the way we choose to identify ourselves. Blue Delliquanti, its creator, deftly teases out her cast so that they're fully developed individuals whose lives, and dilemmas, become the scaffolding upon which everything rests. The world of O Human Star is a futuristic one, where robotics and artificial intelligence integrate almost seamlessly into human exchanges. And the boundaries between identities is not only limited to that between human and robot. Finally, Derek and Sean consider Stuart Campbell's These Memories Won't Last, a webcomic unlike anything else they've ever discussed. With the help of Lhasa Mencur (on sound design) and programmer Vitaliy Shirokiy, Campbell tells the story of his grandfather as he develops dementia. Whereas both The Meek and O Human Star contained layers of meaning, The Memories Won't Last is primarily defined by its visual layering. As the guys point out, Campbell and company layer the narration of the experience on top of the grandfather's actual story, and then these are overlaid with a ill-defined cloud that can obscure the visuals, much as the grandfather's growing dementia eats away at his memories. This is a short and poignant webcomic, and one that is nominated for a 2016 Webby Award in the NetArt category. And it's something you have to experience yourself to get the full effect. For April, Sean and Derek look at three very different webcomics, each a standout in its own way. They begin with Der-shing Helmer's The Meek, the fantastical story of Angora, a young innocent -- even feral -- girl sent on a quest that could save her world. But Angora's isn't the only narrative thread making up this webcomic. We're also introduce to Luca deSadar and his family, rulers of the Northern Territories, and to Soli Areni, a mercenary with a secret to hide and whose jobs aren't always on the lawful side. In the first five chapters of this webcomic, Helmer subtly weaves these storylines together in a way that should become more pronounced as the narrative develops. Next, the guys check out O Human Star, a science fiction tale that's more about relationships and the way we choose to identify ourselves. Blue Delliquanti, its creator, deftly teases out her cast so that they're fully developed individuals whose lives, and dilemmas, become the scaffolding upon which everything rests. The world of O Human Star is a futuristic one, where robotics and artificial intelligence integrate almost seamlessly into human exchanges. And the boundaries between identities is not only limited to that between human and robot. Finally, Derek and Sean consider Stuart Campbell's These Memories Won't Last, a webcomic unlike anything else they've ever discussed. With the help of Lhasa Mencur (on sound design) and programmer Vitaliy Shirokiy, Campbell tells the story of his grandfather as he develops dementia. Whereas both The Meek and O Human Star contained layers of meaning, The Memories Won't Last is primarily defined by its visual layering. As the guys point out, Campbell and company layer the narration of the experience on top of the grandfather's actual story, and then these are overlaid with a ill-defined cloud that can obscure the visuals, much as the grandfather's growing dementia eats away at his memories. This is a short and poignant webcomic, and one that is nominated for a 2016 Webby Award in the NetArt category. And it's something you have to experience yourself to get the full effect.

]]> 5674 no On Location - Talking with Sonny Liew at UT Dallas http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-sonny-liew-at-ut-dallas On this special on-location episode, Derek poses a series of questions to Sonny Liew during his recent visit to the University of Texas at Dallas. Sonny was a guest speaker for the School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication, and he talked with the audience about his new book, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, as well as his experiences within the comics industry. During the exchange, Sonny presented selections from his portfolio and fielded a variety of questions from students and other members of the audience about his art training, his work with DC and Marvel, the Singapore comics scene, and any suggestions he might have for aspiring artists and storytellers. He also discussed his work on other books, including Malinky Robot, Wonderland, The Shadow Hero, and his current run as the artist on Doctor Fate. Fri, 15 Apr 2016 20:08:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Singapore History, Robots, and Fate On this special on-location episode, Derek poses a series of questions to Sonny Liew during his recent visit to the University of Texas at Dallas. Sonny was a guest speaker for the School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication, and he talked with the audience about his new book, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, as well as his experiences within the comics industry. During the exchange, Sonny presented selections from his portfolio and fielded a variety of questions from students and other members of the audience about his art training, his work with DC and Marvel, the Singapore comics scene, and any suggestions he might have for aspiring artists and storytellers. He also discussed his work on other books, including Malinky Robot, Wonderland, The Shadow Hero, and his current run as the artist on Doctor Fate. On this special on-location episode, Derek poses a series of questions to Sonny Liew during his recent visit to the University of Texas at Dallas. Sonny was a guest speaker for the School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication, and he talked with the audience about his new book, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, as well as his experiences within the comics industry. During the exchange, Sonny presented selections from his portfolio and fielded a variety of questions from students and other members of the audience about his art training, his work with DC and Marvel, the Singapore comics scene, and any suggestions he might have for aspiring artists and storytellers. He also discussed his work on other books, including Malinky Robot, Wonderland, The Shadow Hero, and his current run as the artist on Doctor Fate.

]]> 3767 no Episode 183 - Reviews of Love & Rockets: New Stories 8, Girl Crazy, and Blubber #2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-183-reviews-of-love-rockets-new-stories-8-girl-crazy-and-blubber-2 This week's episode is a Hernandez-centric show. On it, the Two Guys with PhDs play a little catch-up with some of Gilbert and Jaime's comics that have come out over the past few months. They begin with the latest installment of Love & Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics), and most of the tales in this volume continue what began in last year's annual. In fact, both Andy and Derek feel that New Stories 8 can be best appreciated, and better understood, when read alongside its predecessor. Jaime's contributions -- the Princess Animus, Maggie and Hopey, and Tonta storylines -- are fairly straightforward, although the guys aren't entirely sure how Princess Animus will ultimately fit into the Love & Rockets world. (Is it similar to the Ti-Girls with Jaime playing around with the superhero genre again? Might Penny Century be involved in some way?) But things aren't as clear-cut when it comes to Gilbert's selections, all centered on Fritz in some way. Over the last two New Stories annuals, Gilbert has been mapping out a complex narrative concerning the B-movie star and her imitators, chock-full of unusual characters, many of whom look alike...and purposefully so. The guys comment on the ways in which Gilbert is manipulating his sequential chronology and the general weirdness surrounding Fritz's world. And given the labyrinthine nature of this current volume of Love & Rockets, Derek advocates for a much-needed Hernandez brothers wiki and challenges listeners to begin creating one. Next, they turn to the new edition of Girl Crazy (Dark Horse Books). This originally began as a three-issue miniseries published by Dark Horse in 1996 and then collected as a single volume the following year. But that book has been out of print for some time, and now the publisher is rereleasing this new hardbound edition to stand alongside other Dark Horse books by Gilbert, including Speak of the Devil, Citizen Rex (with his brother, Mario), Fatima: The Blood Spinners, Loverboys, and last year's Grip: The Strange World of Men. Both Andy and Derek note that, with Girl Crazy, the story still holds up, and it's yet another example of Gilbert's no-holds-barred storytelling. At the same time, they point out that the art in Girl Crazy is noticeably different from his most recent style, with its detailed texturing and heavier inks. Finally, the guys wrap up with the second issue of Gilbert's Blubber (Fantagraphics), a comic-book series that is a strange amalgamation of experimental storytelling and pornography. This is definitely not a title for those with tender sensibilities and who are easily offended. In fact, Derek and Andy point out that, for the most part, all the stories in this issue include a lot of sucking and f**king...and not only between humans. There are zombies, robots, and fantastical creatures involved, as well. It's all weird, wacky, and fun, but after discussing Blubber #2 the Two Guys really feel like they need to take a shower. Wed, 13 Apr 2016 12:05:37 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “At this point Gilbert is just f**cking with us” This week's episode is a Hernandez-centric show. On it, the Two Guys with PhDs play a little catch-up with some of Gilbert and Jaime's comics that have come out over the past few months. They begin with the latest installment of Love & Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics), and most of the tales in this volume continue what began in last year's annual. In fact, both Andy and Derek feel that New Stories 8 can be best appreciated, and better understood, when read alongside its predecessor. Jaime's contributions -- the Princess Animus, Maggie and Hopey, and Tonta storylines -- are fairly straightforward, although the guys aren't entirely sure how Princess Animus will ultimately fit into the Love & Rockets world. (Is it similar to the Ti-Girls with Jaime playing around with the superhero genre again? Might Penny Century be involved in some way?) But things aren't as clear-cut when it comes to Gilbert's selections, all centered on Fritz in some way. Over the last two New Stories annuals, Gilbert has been mapping out a complex narrative concerning the B-movie star and her imitators, chock-full of unusual characters, many of whom look alike...and purposefully so. The guys comment on the ways in which Gilbert is manipulating his sequential chronology and the general weirdness surrounding Fritz's world. And given the labyrinthine nature of this current volume of Love & Rockets, Derek advocates for a much-needed Hernandez brothers wiki and challenges listeners to begin creating one. Next, they turn to the new edition of Girl Crazy (Dark Horse Books). This originally began as a three-issue miniseries published by Dark Horse in 1996 and then collected as a single volume the following year. But that book has been out of print for some time, and now the publisher is rereleasing this new hardbound edition to stand alongside other Dark Horse books by Gilbert, including Speak of the Devil, Citizen Rex (with his brother, Mario), Fatima: The Blood Spinners, Loverboys, and last year's Grip: The Strange World of Men. Both Andy and Derek note that, with Girl Crazy, the story still holds up, and it's yet another example of Gilbert's no-holds-barred storytelling. At the same time, they point out that the art in Girl Crazy is noticeably different from his most recent style, with its detailed texturing and heavier inks. Finally, the guys wrap up with the second issue of Gilbert's Blubber (Fantagraphics), a comic-book series that is a strange amalgamation of experimental storytelling and pornography. This is definitely not a title for those with tender sensibilities and who are easily offended. In fact, Derek and Andy point out that, for the most part, all the stories in this issue include a lot of sucking and f**king...and not only between humans. There are zombies, robots, and fantastical creatures involved, as well. It's all weird, wacky, and fun, but after discussing Blubber #2 the Two Guys really feel like they need to take a shower. This week's episode is a Hernandez-centric show. On it, the Two Guys with PhDs play a little catch-up with some of Gilbert and Jaime's comics that have come out over the past few months. They begin with the latest installment of Love & Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics), and most of the tales in this volume continue what began in last year's annual. In fact, both Andy and Derek feel that New Stories 8 can be best appreciated, and better understood, when read alongside its predecessor. Jaime's contributions -- the Princess Animus, Maggie and Hopey, and Tonta storylines -- are fairly straightforward, although the guys aren't entirely sure how Princess Animus will ultimately fit into the Love & Rockets world. (Is it similar to the Ti-Girls with Jaime playing around with the superhero genre again? Might Penny Century be involved in some way?) But things aren't as clear-cut when it comes to Gilbert's selections, all centered on Fritz in some way. Over the last two New Stories annuals, Gilbert has been mapping out a complex narrative concerning the B-movie star and her imitators, chock-full of unusual characters, many of whom look alike...and purposefully so. The guys comment on the ways in which Gilbert is manipulating his sequential chronology and the general weirdness surrounding Fritz's world. And given the labyrinthine nature of this current volume of Love & Rockets, Derek advocates for a much-needed Hernandez brothers wiki and challenges listeners to begin creating one. Next, they turn to the new edition of Girl Crazy (Dark Horse Books). This originally began as a three-issue miniseries published by Dark Horse in 1996 and then collected as a single volume the following year. But that book has been out of print for some time, and now the publisher is rereleasing this new hardbound edition to stand alongside other Dark Horse books by Gilbert, including Speak of the Devil, Citizen Rex (with his brother, Mario), Fatima: The Blood Spinners, Loverboys, and last year's Grip: The Strange World of Men. Both Andy and Derek note that, with Girl Crazy, the story still holds up, and it's yet another example of Gilbert's no-holds-barred storytelling. At the same time, they point out that the art in Girl Crazy is noticeably different from his most recent style, with its detailed texturing and heavier inks. Finally, the guys wrap up with the second issue of Gilbert's Blubber (Fantagraphics), a comic-book series that is a strange amalgamation of experimental storytelling and pornography. This is definitely not a title for those with tender sensibilities and who are easily offended. In fact, Derek and Andy point out that, for the most part, all the stories in this issue include a lot of sucking and f**king...and not only between humans. There are zombies, robots, and fantastical creatures involved, as well. It's all weird, wacky, and fun, but after discussing Blubber #2 the Two Guys really feel like they need to take a shower.

]]> 5810 yes Episode 182 - The April Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-182-the-april-previews-catalog It's the first week of April, so that must mean that it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. This month, Andy Kunka is back for his first Previews show of 2016 -- where has the time gone? -- so Derek helps him to shake off the cobwebs and get down to deep solicitation-reading business. Among the many upcoming releases they highlight are titles from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Weird Detective #1, Alena, and Edgar Rice Burroughs' Tarzan: The Complete Joe Kubert Years DC/Vertigo - Wacky Raceland #1, The Sheriff of Babylon, Vol. 1, and Scalped Deluxe Edition, Book Five IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Tales from the Darkside #1, Bacchus: Omnibus Edition, Vol. 2, and The Fun Family Image Comics - Midnight of the Soul #1, She Wolf #1, Adventures in the Rifle Brigade, and Blue Monday, Vol. 1: The Kids Are Alright AfterShock - The Revisionist #1 Albatross Funnybooks - Satan's Sodomy Baby! II and Hillbilly #1 Alternative Comics - Miss U.S. of Heya, SEC, and Sun Bakery #2 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Elf Cat in Love BOOM! Studios - Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy #1, Strange Attractors #1, and The Joyners #1 Canton Street Press - Torchy #1 Flashback Replica and The Senate Hearings on Juvenile Delinquency  Conundrum Press - Bird in a Cage and The Ghosts We Know Dynamite Entertainment - The Shadow: The Death of Margo Lane #1, Control #1, and James Bond Vol. 1: Vargr Drawn and Quarterly - The Birth of Kitaro and Hot Dog Taste Test Fantagraphics Books - Wrinkles, Lovf: An Illustrated Vision of a Man Losing His Mind, and Drinky Crow Drinks Again Farrah, Straus and Giroux - Compass South First Second - Nobody Likes a Goblin: A Picture Book Gen Manga - Sorako Grand Central Publishing - Indeh: A Story of the Apache Wars Odod Books/Uncivilized Books - Musnet: The Mouse of Monet One Press - The Sixth Gun #50 and Fresh Romance  Pegasus Books - The Stranger SelfMadeHero - The Shadow of Innsmouth Ten Speed Press - Cook Korean!: A Comic Book with Recipes Titan Comics - Sherlock: A Study in Pink #1 VIZ Media - Goodnight Punpun Vol. 2 Z2 Comics - The Sweetness #1 University of California Press - Hellboy's World: Comics and Monsters on the Margins North Atlantic Books - Otto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary The guys also discuss the pros and cons of DC and Image doing their own mini-catalogs, the mixed bag of publisher crossovers, and the weirdness surrounding recent book that have been repurposed as limited series. Derek also shares news about how a recent on-location episode of the podcast became a Steve Lieber boon for the manager of Collected Comics in Plano. It's apparently true: there is such a thing as The Comics Alternative bump and the success it can bring you! Wed, 06 Apr 2016 13:40:33 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Magic balls" It's the first week of April, so that must mean that it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. This month, Andy Kunka is back for his first Previews show of 2016 -- where has the time gone? -- so Derek helps him to shake off the cobwebs and get down to deep solicitation-reading business. Among the many upcoming releases they highlight are titles from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Weird Detective #1, Alena, and Edgar Rice Burroughs' Tarzan: The Complete Joe Kubert Years DC/Vertigo - Wacky Raceland #1, The Sheriff of Babylon, Vol. 1, and Scalped Deluxe Edition, Book Five IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Tales from the Darkside #1, Bacchus: Omnibus Edition, Vol. 2, and The Fun Family Image Comics - Midnight of the Soul #1, She Wolf #1, Adventures in the Rifle Brigade, and Blue Monday, Vol. 1: The Kids Are Alright AfterShock - The Revisionist #1 Albatross Funnybooks - Satan's Sodomy Baby! II and Hillbilly #1 Alternative Comics - Miss U.S. of Heya, SEC, and Sun Bakery #2 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Elf Cat in Love BOOM! Studios - Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy #1, Strange Attractors #1, and The Joyners #1 Canton Street Press - Torchy #1 Flashback Replica and The Senate Hearings on Juvenile Delinquency  Conundrum Press - Bird in a Cage and The Ghosts We Know Dynamite Entertainment - The Shadow: The Death of Margo Lane #1, Control #1, and James Bond Vol. 1: Vargr Drawn and Quarterly - The Birth of Kitaro and Hot Dog Taste Test Fantagraphics Books - Wrinkles, Lovf: An Illustrated Vision of a Man Losing His Mind, and Drinky Crow Drinks Again Farrah, Straus and Giroux - Compass South First Second - Nobody Likes a Goblin: A Picture Book Gen Manga - Sorako Grand Central Publishing - Indeh: A Story of the Apache Wars Odod Books/Uncivilized Books - Musnet: The Mouse of Monet One Press - The Sixth Gun #50 and Fresh Romance  Pegasus Books - The Stranger SelfMadeHero - The Shadow of Innsmouth Ten Speed Press - Cook Korean!: A Comic Book with Recipes Titan Comics - Sherlock: A Study in Pink #1 VIZ Media - Goodnight Punpun Vol. 2 Z2 Comics - The Sweetness #1 University of California Press - Hellboy's World: Comics and Monsters on the Margins North Atlantic Books - Otto Binder: The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary The guys also discuss the pros and cons of DC and Image doing their own mini-catalogs, the mixed bag of publisher crossovers, and the weirdness surrounding recent book that have been repurposed as limited series. Derek also shares news about how a recent on-location episode of the podcast became a Steve Lieber boon for the manager of Collected Comics in Plano. It's apparently true: there is such a thing as The Comics Alternative bump and the success it can bring you! It's the first week of April, so that must mean that it's time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. This month, Andy Kunka is back for his first Previews show of 2016 -- where has the time gone? -- so Derek helps him to shake off the cobwebs and get down to deep solicitation-reading business. Among the many upcoming releases they highlight are titles from publishers such as

The guys also discuss the pros and cons of DC and Image doing their own mini-catalogs, the mixed bag of publisher crossovers, and the weirdness surrounding recent book that have been repurposed as limited series. Derek also shares news about how a recent on-location episode of the podcast became a Steve Lieber boon for the manager of Collected Comics in Plano. It's apparently true: there is such a thing as The Comics Alternative bump and the success it can bring you!

]]> 7137 no Episode 181 - Reviews of Paracuellos, The Baker Street Peculiars #1, and Power Lines #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-181-reviews-of-paracuellos-the-baker-street-peculiars-1-and-power-lines-1 This week on the podcast, Gwen and Derek look at three very different recent titles. They begin with Carlos Giménez's Paracuellos. The original first two volumes of this comic, published in Spain in 1977 and 1982, have now been collected into a single-volume English translation (by Sonya Jones) and published by IDW's EuroComics imprint. The Paracuellos strips are Giménez's autobiographical look at his time in several of the Social Aid "homes" that were a part of Francisco Franco's fascist Spain. As Gwen and Derek reveal, the stories are stark and heartbreaking, and Giménez presents a difficult environment where oppression and apathy (at least in the context of the adults) shape young and vulnerable lives. They discuss not only the socio-political atmosphere of Paracuellos, but also Giménez's stylistic strategies for rendering this world. Next, the Guy and Gal with PhDs Talking about Comics look at two #1 issues just released this month: Roger Langridge and Andy Hirsch's The Baker Street Peculiars (KaBOOM! Studios) and Jimmie Robinson's Power Lines (Image Comics). The former is of particular interest to them, since Andy Hirsch is a friend of the show. This is the first of a four-issue series about a group of young outsiders who team up with whom appears to be Sherlock Holmes in 1930s London. The setup to this story is action-packed and exudes adventure, and Hirsch's art brings out both the dynamism and the fun that this narrative has to offer. Power Lines is a different take on race relations in the United States, and, in many ways, it's a very timely premise. A young African American male goes with his tagger friends into a white middle-class neighborhood, only to find himself a embroiled in some mysterious centuries-old power from which he cannot extricate himself. (Sort of like race in America?) Both Gwen and Derek like where Robinson seems to be going with the story, but they nonetheless wonder if he may be unexpectedly stepping into some ethnically tinged traps. However, the ambition is clearly there, and both cohosts are curious where Robinson's story will eventually lead. Wed, 30 Mar 2016 15:08:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fascism, Sleuths, and Race This week on the podcast, Gwen and Derek look at three very different recent titles. They begin with Carlos Giménez's Paracuellos. The original first two volumes of this comic, published in Spain in 1977 and 1982, have now been collected into a single-volume English translation (by Sonya Jones) and published by IDW's EuroComics imprint. The Paracuellos strips are Giménez's autobiographical look at his time in several of the Social Aid "homes" that were a part of Francisco Franco's fascist Spain. As Gwen and Derek reveal, the stories are stark and heartbreaking, and Giménez presents a difficult environment where oppression and apathy (at least in the context of the adults) shape young and vulnerable lives. They discuss not only the socio-political atmosphere of Paracuellos, but also Giménez's stylistic strategies for rendering this world. Next, the Guy and Gal with PhDs Talking about Comics look at two #1 issues just released this month: Roger Langridge and Andy Hirsch's The Baker Street Peculiars (KaBOOM! Studios) and Jimmie Robinson's Power Lines (Image Comics). The former is of particular interest to them, since Andy Hirsch is a friend of the show. This is the first of a four-issue series about a group of young outsiders who team up with whom appears to be Sherlock Holmes in 1930s London. The setup to this story is action-packed and exudes adventure, and Hirsch's art brings out both the dynamism and the fun that this narrative has to offer. Power Lines is a different take on race relations in the United States, and, in many ways, it's a very timely premise. A young African American male goes with his tagger friends into a white middle-class neighborhood, only to find himself a embroiled in some mysterious centuries-old power from which he cannot extricate himself. (Sort of like race in America?) Both Gwen and Derek like where Robinson seems to be going with the story, but they nonetheless wonder if he may be unexpectedly stepping into some ethnically tinged traps. However, the ambition is clearly there, and both cohosts are curious where Robinson's story will eventually lead. This week on the podcast, Gwen and Derek look at three very different recent titles. They begin with Carlos Giménez's Paracuellos. The original first two volumes of this comic, published in Spain in 1977 and 1982, have now been collected into a single-volume English translation (by Sonya Jones) and published by IDW's EuroComics imprint. The Paracuellos strips are Giménez's autobiographical look at his time in several of the Social Aid "homes" that were a part of Francisco Franco's fascist Spain. As Gwen and Derek reveal, the stories are stark and heartbreaking, and Giménez presents a difficult environment where oppression and apathy (at least in the context of the adults) shape young and vulnerable lives. They discuss not only the socio-political atmosphere of Paracuellos, but also Giménez's stylistic strategies for rendering this world. Next, the Guy and Gal with PhDs Talking about Comics look at two #1 issues just released this month: Roger Langridge and Andy Hirsch's The Baker Street Peculiars (KaBOOM! Studios) and Jimmie Robinson's Power Lines (Image Comics). The former is of particular interest to them, since Andy Hirsch is a friend of the show. This is the first of a four-issue series about a group of young outsiders who team up with whom appears to be Sherlock Holmes in 1930s London. The setup to this story is action-packed and exudes adventure, and Hirsch's art brings out both the dynamism and the fun that this narrative has to offer. Power Lines is a different take on race relations in the United States, and, in many ways, it's a very timely premise. A young African American male goes with his tagger friends into a white middle-class neighborhood, only to find himself a embroiled in some mysterious centuries-old power from which he cannot extricate himself. (Sort of like race in America?) Both Gwen and Derek like where Robinson seems to be going with the story, but they nonetheless wonder if he may be unexpectedly stepping into some ethnically tinged traps. However, the ambition is clearly there, and both cohosts are curious where Robinson's story will eventually lead.

]]> 4528 no Manga - Reviews of A Girl on the Shore and Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-a-girl-on-the-shore-and-goodnight-punpun-vol-1 For the March episode of The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two recent releases, both by Inio Asano: A Girl on the Shore (Vertical Comics) and Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 (VIZ Media). Before they plunge into those titles, though, they provide a bit of context about Asano's style and briefly discuss his other works that have been translated into English. The guys primarily reference Solanin and Nijigahara Holograph as key Asano texts, but they also mention the two-volume series of short stories, What a Wonderful World. In many ways, Derek feels that A Girl on the Shore is a cross between Solanin's emphasis on relationships and Nijigahara Holograph's fractured or more experimental narration. The guys also spend a good amount of time talking about the sexually explicit nature of the recent book. Most of A Girl on the Shore centers on its protagonists, Kuome and Isobe, slowly exploring one another, and much of that exploration is sexual in nature. However, neither Shea nor Derek feel that the visualizations are gratuitous in any way, and that Asano even complicates his explicitness through certain intriguing artistic choices. Next, the guys turn to a completely different kind of story, and one that's a little more challenging to wrap your brain around. Goodnight Punpun originally ran for thirteen volumes in Japan, and this month VIZ Media began releasing the English translation in larger, two-in-one editions. In this first volume, we're introduced to Punpun Punyama, a weird, largely silent bird-like creature who is supposedly a young human boy as are all of the other characters in the story. (Only the Punyama family is depicted as abstracted birds...although for all we know, this is a world where abstracted birds living with humans has been normalized.) While the storyline of this first volume is fairly straightforward -- primarily a quest narrative for Punpun and his friends, and mostly involving Punpun's love interest, Aiko -- the manner of storytelling isn't. At times Asano's art is surreal or even psychedelic, and the events that occur can be downright trippy. Derek is fascinated by the hipster figure of god that keeps popping up throughout the book, and Shea likens Asano's style to something approximating magical realism. All in all, this first installment of Goodnight Punpun is a fun punch in the gut that has the guys eagerly anticipating the next volumes to be released later this year. But then again, as far as Shea and Derek are concerned, any Inio Asano is worth eagerly anticipating. Mon, 28 Mar 2016 21:01:32 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Eros and Thanatos For the March episode of The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two recent releases, both by Inio Asano: A Girl on the Shore (Vertical Comics) and Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 (VIZ Media). Before they plunge into those titles, though, they provide a bit of context about Asano's style and briefly discuss his other works that have been translated into English. The guys primarily reference Solanin and Nijigahara Holograph as key Asano texts, but they also mention the two-volume series of short stories, What a Wonderful World. In many ways, Derek feels that A Girl on the Shore is a cross between Solanin's emphasis on relationships and Nijigahara Holograph's fractured or more experimental narration. The guys also spend a good amount of time talking about the sexually explicit nature of the recent book. Most of A Girl on the Shore centers on its protagonists, Kuome and Isobe, slowly exploring one another, and much of that exploration is sexual in nature. However, neither Shea nor Derek feel that the visualizations are gratuitous in any way, and that Asano even complicates his explicitness through certain intriguing artistic choices. Next, the guys turn to a completely different kind of story, and one that's a little more challenging to wrap your brain around. Goodnight Punpun originally ran for thirteen volumes in Japan, and this month VIZ Media began releasing the English translation in larger, two-in-one editions. In this first volume, we're introduced to Punpun Punyama, a weird, largely silent bird-like creature who is supposedly a young human boy as are all of the other characters in the story. (Only the Punyama family is depicted as abstracted birds...although for all we know, this is a world where abstracted birds living with humans has been normalized.) While the storyline of this first volume is fairly straightforward -- primarily a quest narrative for Punpun and his friends, and mostly involving Punpun's love interest, Aiko -- the manner of storytelling isn't. At times Asano's art is surreal or even psychedelic, and the events that occur can be downright trippy. Derek is fascinated by the hipster figure of god that keeps popping up throughout the book, and Shea likens Asano's style to something approximating magical realism. All in all, this first installment of Goodnight Punpun is a fun punch in the gut that has the guys eagerly anticipating the next volumes to be released later this year. But then again, as far as Shea and Derek are concerned, any Inio Asano is worth eagerly anticipating. For the March episode of The Comics Alternative's manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two recent releases, both by Inio Asano: A Girl on the Shore (Vertical Comics) and Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 (VIZ Media). Before they plunge into those titles, though, they provide a bit of context about Asano's style and briefly discuss his other works that have been translated into English. The guys primarily reference Solanin and Nijigahara Holograph as key Asano texts, but they also mention the two-volume series of short stories, What a Wonderful World. In many ways, Derek feels that A Girl on the Shore is a cross between Solanin's emphasis on relationships and Nijigahara Holograph's fractured or more experimental narration. The guys also spend a good amount of time talking about the sexually explicit nature of the recent book. Most of A Girl on the Shore centers on its protagonists, Kuome and Isobe, slowly exploring one another, and much of that exploration is sexual in nature. However, neither Shea nor Derek feel that the visualizations are gratuitous in any way, and that Asano even complicates his explicitness through certain intriguing artistic choices. Next, the guys turn to a completely different kind of story, and one that's a little more challenging to wrap your brain around. Goodnight Punpun originally ran for thirteen volumes in Japan, and this month VIZ Media began releasing the English translation in larger, two-in-one editions. In this first volume, we're introduced to Punpun Punyama, a weird, largely silent bird-like creature who is supposedly a young human boy as are all of the other characters in the story. (Only the Punyama family is depicted as abstracted birds...although for all we know, this is a world where abstracted birds living with humans has been normalized.) While the storyline of this first volume is fairly straightforward -- primarily a quest narrative for Punpun and his friends, and mostly involving Punpun's love interest, Aiko -- the manner of storytelling isn't. At times Asano's art is surreal or even psychedelic, and the events that occur can be downright trippy. Derek is fascinated by the hipster figure of god that keeps popping up throughout the book, and Shea likens Asano's style to something approximating magical realism. All in all, this first installment of Goodnight Punpun is a fun punch in the gut that has the guys eagerly anticipating the next volumes to be released later this year. But then again, as far as Shea and Derek are concerned, any Inio Asano is worth eagerly anticipating.

]]> 4752 yes On Location - The March Visit to Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-the-march-visit-to-collected-comics-and-games Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for the March on-location episode of podcast. (Unfortunately that was no February episode at Collected due to unforeseen circumstances.) While there, he talks with several shop employees and customers about a variety of comics-related matters. Folks spend a lot of time discussing some of the titles they've been reading lately. Matt Kuzio, who usually participates in these shows, was unable to be there this month, but he shared in absentia some of the comics he's been enjoying, including Emma Ríos and Kwei Lim's Mirror (Image Comics), Kate Leth and Brittney Williams'a Patsy Walker, A.K.A. Hellcat! (Marvel Comics), Chris Lewis and Tony Gregori's Karma Police (Comics Experience), and Sarah Andersen's Adulthood Is a Myth: A Sarah's Scribbles Collection (Andrews McMeel Publishing). Sabrina, the shop manager, talks up some of the preview copies she's been receiving, such as the first issues of Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber's The Fix (Image Comics), Christopher Sebela and Robert Wilson IV, Heartthrob (Oni Press), and Matthew Rosenberg and Tyler Boss's 4 Kids Walk into a Bank (Black Mask Comics). Chris, a regular customer of Collected, discusses his enthusiasm for Angela Queen of Hel (Marvel). And shop employee, Stephanie, mentions Marguerite Bennett and Ariela Kristantina's Insext, although Derek references his less-than-enthusiastic discussion of the title in the recent publisher spotlight on AfterShock Comics. There's also quite a bit of talk over recent comics in TV and film -- such as the new Lucifer series and the second season of Daredevil -- and, on a very special note, everyone there sings the praises of Andy Hirsh, a local artist (and friend of the show) who is also a Collected customer. His series, The Baker Street Peculiars (written by Roger Langridge and published by BOOM! Studios) just began this month, and his new book, Varmints, is due for release this fall from First Second. Needless to say, there's plenty to discuss, and the guys cover a lot of ground this month! Fri, 25 Mar 2016 15:54:38 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "It's not just like, 'Oh, here's a boob'" Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for the March on-location episode of podcast. (Unfortunately that was no February episode at Collected due to unforeseen circumstances.) While there, he talks with several shop employees and customers about a variety of comics-related matters. Folks spend a lot of time discussing some of the titles they've been reading lately. Matt Kuzio, who usually participates in these shows, was unable to be there this month, but he shared in absentia some of the comics he's been enjoying, including Emma Ríos and Kwei Lim's Mirror (Image Comics), Kate Leth and Brittney Williams'a Patsy Walker, A.K.A. Hellcat! (Marvel Comics), Chris Lewis and Tony Gregori's Karma Police (Comics Experience), and Sarah Andersen's Adulthood Is a Myth: A Sarah's Scribbles Collection (Andrews McMeel Publishing). Sabrina, the shop manager, talks up some of the preview copies she's been receiving, such as the first issues of Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber's The Fix (Image Comics), Christopher Sebela and Robert Wilson IV, Heartthrob (Oni Press), and Matthew Rosenberg and Tyler Boss's 4 Kids Walk into a Bank (Black Mask Comics). Chris, a regular customer of Collected, discusses his enthusiasm for Angela Queen of Hel (Marvel). And shop employee, Stephanie, mentions Marguerite Bennett and Ariela Kristantina's Insext, although Derek references his less-than-enthusiastic discussion of the title in the recent publisher spotlight on AfterShock Comics. There's also quite a bit of talk over recent comics in TV and film -- such as the new Lucifer series and the second season of Daredevil -- and, on a very special note, everyone there sings the praises of Andy Hirsh, a local artist (and friend of the show) who is also a Collected customer. His series, The Baker Street Peculiars (written by Roger Langridge and published by BOOM! Studios) just began this month, and his new book, Varmints, is due for release this fall from First Second. Needless to say, there's plenty to discuss, and the guys cover a lot of ground this month! Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for the March on-location episode of podcast. (Unfortunately that was no February episode at Collected due to unforeseen circumstances.) While there, he talks with several shop employees and customers about a variety of comics-related matters. Folks spend a lot of time discussing some of the titles they've been reading lately. Matt Kuzio, who usually participates in these shows, was unable to be there this month, but he shared in absentia some of the comics he's been enjoying, including Emma Ríos and Kwei Lim's Mirror (Image Comics), Kate Leth and Brittney Williams'a Patsy Walker, A.K.A. Hellcat! (Marvel Comics), Chris Lewis and Tony Gregori's Karma Police (Comics Experience), and Sarah Andersen's Adulthood Is a Myth: A Sarah's Scribbles Collection (Andrews McMeel Publishing). Sabrina, the shop manager, talks up some of the preview copies she's been receiving, such as the first issues of Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber's The Fix (Image Comics), Christopher Sebela and Robert Wilson IV, Heartthrob (Oni Press), and Matthew Rosenberg and Tyler Boss's 4 Kids Walk into a Bank (Black Mask Comics). Chris, a regular customer of Collected, discusses his enthusiasm for Angela Queen of Hel (Marvel). And shop employee, Stephanie, mentions Marguerite Bennett and Ariela Kristantina's Insext, although Derek references his less-than-enthusiastic discussion of the title in the recent publisher spotlight on AfterShock Comics. There's also quite a bit of talk over recent comics in TV and film -- such as the new Lucifer series and the second season of Daredevil -- and, on a very special note, everyone there sings the praises of Andy Hirsh, a local artist (and friend of the show) who is also a Collected customer. His series, The Baker Street Peculiars (written by Roger Langridge and published by BOOM! Studios) just began this month, and his new book, Varmints, is due for release this fall from First Second. Needless to say, there's plenty to discuss, and the guys cover a lot of ground this month!

]]> 4884 no Episode 180 - A Publisher Spotlight on AfterShock Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-180-a-publisher-spotlight-on-aftershock-comics The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another publisher spotlight, and this time the focus is on AfterShock Comics. This is a new publisher that began soliciting their titles back in the fall and then releasing their initial series in December 2015. With editorial oversight by two veterans of the mainstream, Mike Marts and Joe Pruett, AfterShock has been bringing in some major-league talent to write and illustrate their comics, which is something that Andy and Derek noted when they first caught wind of the up-and-coming publisher. They begin their spotlight by speculating on the possible direction and business plan of AfterShock, observing that some of the company executives have a lot of Hollywood and TV/film experience, and that the kind of titles they're releasing (and the creators on them) are reminiscent of what readers have historically found at Vertigo and Image. Then they jump into the titles themselves, beginning with the first three issues of Super Zero, written by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti and with art by Rafael De Latorre. The guys enjoy this series, a charming and realistic (at least for now) twist on the superhero genre, although they're hoping that the storyline will soon depart its premise. After that, they look at the first four issues of Paul Jenkins and Andy Clarke's Replica. This is a futuristic and humorous sci-fi procedural taking place at a nexus of alien cultures. The guys note that after a slow start with the first issue, the series successfully settles into its groove. Yet after finding a lot of critical common ground with the first two series, Andy's and Derek's opinions diverge dramatically on several of the remaining AfterShock titles. This is most apparent with InSext, a Victorian, entomologically tinged (and erotic) thriller written by Marguerite Bennett and illustrated by Ariela Kristantina. While Andy finds this one of the most compelling of AfterShock's initial lineup, Derek feels that there are too many holes in the premise -- moth-eaten, if you will -- and that the first four issues lack narrative cohesion. They also disagree on Garth Ennis and Simon Coleby's Dreaming Eagles as well as Brian Azzarello and Juan Doe's American Monster. Derek believes these are two strong stories, although Andy feels they are just more of the same, nothing new, from Ennis and Azzarello. They do agree, however, on the promise found in the first couple of issues of Strayer, from the creative team Justin Jordan and Juan Gedeon. Finally, the guys wrap up with a discussion on AfterShock's newest title, Second Sight, written by David Hine and with art from Alberto Ponticelli. This is one of Derek's favorites from AfterShock, so far, although Andy is less enthusiastic and is waiting to be impressed. Before signing off of this publisher spotlight, the guys also anticipate the publisher's next wave of new series -- including Rough Riders (by Adam Glass and Patrick Ollie), Jackpot! (Ray Fawkes and Marco Failla), and Black-Eyed Kids (Joe Pruett and Szymon Kudranski) -- and mention some of the other creators slotted for future AfterShock releases, including Mark Waid, Cullen Bunn, John Layman, Tim Seeley, and Frank Barbiere. In sum, the guys see AfterShock Comics as a new publisher worth watching. Wed, 23 Mar 2016 17:05:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Siskel and Ebert The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another publisher spotlight, and this time the focus is on AfterShock Comics. This is a new publisher that began soliciting their titles back in the fall and then releasing their initial series in December 2015. With editorial oversight by two veterans of the mainstream, Mike Marts and Joe Pruett, AfterShock has been bringing in some major-league talent to write and illustrate their comics, which is something that Andy and Derek noted when they first caught wind of the up-and-coming publisher. They begin their spotlight by speculating on the possible direction and business plan of AfterShock, observing that some of the company executives have a lot of Hollywood and TV/film experience, and that the kind of titles they're releasing (and the creators on them) are reminiscent of what readers have historically found at Vertigo and Image. Then they jump into the titles themselves, beginning with the first three issues of Super Zero, written by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti and with art by Rafael De Latorre. The guys enjoy this series, a charming and realistic (at least for now) twist on the superhero genre, although they're hoping that the storyline will soon depart its premise. After that, they look at the first four issues of Paul Jenkins and Andy Clarke's Replica. This is a futuristic and humorous sci-fi procedural taking place at a nexus of alien cultures. The guys note that after a slow start with the first issue, the series successfully settles into its groove. Yet after finding a lot of critical common ground with the first two series, Andy's and Derek's opinions diverge dramatically on several of the remaining AfterShock titles. This is most apparent with InSext, a Victorian, entomologically tinged (and erotic) thriller written by Marguerite Bennett and illustrated by Ariela Kristantina. While Andy finds this one of the most compelling of AfterShock's initial lineup, Derek feels that there are too many holes in the premise -- moth-eaten, if you will -- and that the first four issues lack narrative cohesion. They also disagree on Garth Ennis and Simon Coleby's Dreaming Eagles as well as Brian Azzarello and Juan Doe's American Monster. Derek believes these are two strong stories, although Andy feels they are just more of the same, nothing new, from Ennis and Azzarello. They do agree, however, on the promise found in the first couple of issues of Strayer, from the creative team Justin Jordan and Juan Gedeon. Finally, the guys wrap up with a discussion on AfterShock's newest title, Second Sight, written by David Hine and with art from Alberto Ponticelli. This is one of Derek's favorites from AfterShock, so far, although Andy is less enthusiastic and is waiting to be impressed. Before signing off of this publisher spotlight, the guys also anticipate the publisher's next wave of new series -- including Rough Riders (by Adam Glass and Patrick Ollie), Jackpot! (Ray Fawkes and Marco Failla), and Black-Eyed Kids (Joe Pruett and Szymon Kudranski) -- and mention some of the other creators slotted for future AfterShock releases, including Mark Waid, Cullen Bunn, John Layman, Tim Seeley, and Frank Barbiere. In sum, the guys see AfterShock Comics as a new publisher worth watching. The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another publisher spotlight, and this time the focus is on AfterShock Comics. This is a new publisher that began soliciting their titles back in the fall and then releasing their initial series in December 2015. With editorial oversight by two veterans of the mainstream, Mike Marts and Joe Pruett, AfterShock has been bringing in some major-league talent to write and illustrate their comics, which is something that Andy and Derek noted when they first caught wind of the up-and-coming publisher. They begin their spotlight by speculating on the possible direction and business plan of AfterShock, observing that some of the company executives have a lot of Hollywood and TV/film experience, and that the kind of titles they're releasing (and the creators on them) are reminiscent of what readers have historically found at Vertigo and Image. Then they jump into the titles themselves, beginning with the first three issues of Super Zero, written by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti and with art by Rafael De Latorre. The guys enjoy this series, a charming and realistic (at least for now) twist on the superhero genre, although they're hoping that the storyline will soon depart its premise. After that, they look at the first four issues of Paul Jenkins and Andy Clarke's Replica. This is a futuristic and humorous sci-fi procedural taking place at a nexus of alien cultures. The guys note that after a slow start with the first issue, the series successfully settles into its groove. Yet after finding a lot of critical common ground with the first two series, Andy's and Derek's opinions diverge dramatically on several of the remaining AfterShock titles. This is most apparent with InSext, a Victorian, entomologically tinged (and erotic) thriller written by Marguerite Bennett and illustrated by Ariela Kristantina. While Andy finds this one of the most compelling of AfterShock's initial lineup, Derek feels that there are too many holes in the premise -- moth-eaten, if you will -- and that the first four issues lack narrative cohesion. They also disagree on Garth Ennis and Simon Coleby's Dreaming Eagles as well as Brian Azzarello and Juan Doe's American Monster. Derek believes these are two strong stories, although Andy feels they are just more of the same, nothing new, from Ennis and Azzarello. They do agree, however, on the promise found in the first couple of issues of Strayer, from the creative team Justin Jordan and Juan Gedeon. Finally, the guys wrap up with a discussion on AfterShock's newest title, Second Sight, written by David Hine and with art from Alberto Ponticelli. This is one of Derek's favorites from AfterShock, so far, although Andy is less enthusiastic and is waiting to be impressed. Before signing off of this publisher spotlight, the guys also anticipate the publisher's next wave of new series -- including Rough Riders (by Adam Glass and Patrick Ollie), Jackpot! (Ray Fawkes and Marco Failla), and Black-Eyed Kids (Joe Pruett and Szymon Kudranski) -- and mention some of the other creators slotted for future AfterShock releases, including Mark Waid, Cullen Bunn, John Layman, Tim Seeley, and Frank Barbiere. In sum, the guys see AfterShock Comics as a new publisher worth watching.

]]> 6555 no Young Readers - Reviews of Rust: The Boy Soldier, Sweater Weather and Other Short Stories, and Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-rust-the-boy-soldier-sweater-weather-and-other-short-stories-and-dinosaurs-fossils-and-feathers This month, both Gwen and Andy are battling colds, so it’s “Two sick people with PhDs talking about comics for young readers!” But there’s nothing unhealthy about the three comics Gwen and Andy discuss on this month’s show: Royden Lepp's Rust: The Boy Soldier (Archaia/BOOM! Studios), Sara Varon's Sweaterweather and Other Short Stories (First Second), and MK Reed and Joe Flood's non-fiction book, Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers (First Second). They begin with Rust: The Boy Soldier, and they found it to be both an exciting adventure story set after a world war and an effective reflection on power, responsibility, and humanity. Jet is a young boy with a jetpack who saves a farm from a killer robot left over from a destructive world war, but the Taylor family -- whose farm Jet saved -- isn’t sure whether Jet is a friend or a foe. The book’s sepia-toned art recalls photographs from the early twentieth century, but its story is one that transcends time. Although an action/adventure book, Rust: The Boy Soldier also reflects on the concepts of war, responsibility, power, and humanity. The book actually serves as a prelude to the entire Rust series which currently includes Rust: A Visitor in the Field, Rust: Secrets of the Cell, Rust: Death of the Rocket Boy, and a yet-to-be-published fourth and final volume. Next, Gwen and Andy discuss how Sara Varon’s simple, approachable animal characters in Sweater Weather and Other Short Stories explore friendship, diversity, food, fun and more, all with a good-natured sense of humor and sophistication. While readers may be familiar with some of Varon’s other works, including Odd Duck, Robot Dreams, and Bake Sale, this time Varon gives some background on the creative process and her development as an artist. Gwen and Andy both think this book will not only entertain young readers, but may also inspire them to create their own comics. Finally, both of the folks with PhDs are very excited to discuss Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers, by MK Reed and Joe Flood. This is another book in First Second’s Get To Know Your Universe: Science Comics series. C’mon, everyone loves dinosaurs, and so will anyone who picks up this book. Gwen and Andy agree that Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers is a great non-fiction graphic novel that entertains and instructs. It can also be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, giving younger readers a great, fun look at dinosaurs, and providing older readers with the history of dinosaur research and discovery. This is a book that is bound to be explored many times by young readers, so maybe you’ll want to get two copies? Fri, 18 Mar 2016 15:54:41 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Healthy Reading This month, both Gwen and Andy are battling colds, so it’s “Two sick people with PhDs talking about comics for young readers!” But there’s nothing unhealthy about the three comics Gwen and Andy discuss on this month’s show: Royden Lepp's Rust: The Boy Soldier (Archaia/BOOM! Studios), Sara Varon's Sweaterweather and Other Short Stories (First Second), and MK Reed and Joe Flood's non-fiction book, Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers (First Second). They begin with Rust: The Boy Soldier, and they found it to be both an exciting adventure story set after a world war and an effective reflection on power, responsibility, and humanity. Jet is a young boy with a jetpack who saves a farm from a killer robot left over from a destructive world war, but the Taylor family -- whose farm Jet saved -- isn’t sure whether Jet is a friend or a foe. The book’s sepia-toned art recalls photographs from the early twentieth century, but its story is one that transcends time. Although an action/adventure book, Rust: The Boy Soldier also reflects on the concepts of war, responsibility, power, and humanity. The book actually serves as a prelude to the entire Rust series which currently includes Rust: A Visitor in the Field, Rust: Secrets of the Cell, Rust: Death of the Rocket Boy, and a yet-to-be-published fourth and final volume. Next, Gwen and Andy discuss how Sara Varon’s simple, approachable animal characters in Sweater Weather and Other Short Stories explore friendship, diversity, food, fun and more, all with a good-natured sense of humor and sophistication. While readers may be familiar with some of Varon’s other works, including Odd Duck, Robot Dreams, and Bake Sale, this time Varon gives some background on the creative process and her development as an artist. Gwen and Andy both think this book will not only entertain young readers, but may also inspire them to create their own comics. Finally, both of the folks with PhDs are very excited to discuss Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers, by MK Reed and Joe Flood. This is another book in First Second’s Get To Know Your Universe: Science Comics series. C’mon, everyone loves dinosaurs, and so will anyone who picks up this book. Gwen and Andy agree that Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers is a great non-fiction graphic novel that entertains and instructs. It can also be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, giving younger readers a great, fun look at dinosaurs, and providing older readers with the history of dinosaur research and discovery. This is a book that is bound to be explored many times by young readers, so maybe you’ll want to get two copies? This month, both Gwen and Andy are battling colds, so it’s “Two sick people with PhDs talking about comics for young readers!” But there’s nothing unhealthy about the three comics Gwen and Andy discuss on this month’s show: Royden Lepp's Rust: The Boy Soldier (Archaia/BOOM! Studios), Sara Varon's Sweaterweather and Other Short Stories (First Second), and MK Reed and Joe Flood's non-fiction book, Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers (First Second). They begin with Rust: The Boy Soldier, and they found it to be both an exciting adventure story set after a world war and an effective reflection on power, responsibility, and humanity. Jet is a young boy with a jetpack who saves a farm from a killer robot left over from a destructive world war, but the Taylor family -- whose farm Jet saved -- isn’t sure whether Jet is a friend or a foe. The book’s sepia-toned art recalls photographs from the early twentieth century, but its story is one that transcends time. Although an action/adventure book, Rust: The Boy Soldier also reflects on the concepts of war, responsibility, power, and humanity. The book actually serves as a prelude to the entire Rust series which currently includes Rust: A Visitor in the Field, Rust: Secrets of the Cell, Rust: Death of the Rocket Boy, and a yet-to-be-published fourth and final volume. Next, Gwen and Andy discuss how Sara Varon’s simple, approachable animal characters in Sweater Weather and Other Short Stories explore friendship, diversity, food, fun and more, all with a good-natured sense of humor and sophistication. While readers may be familiar with some of Varon’s other works, including Odd Duck, Robot Dreams, and Bake Sale, this time Varon gives some background on the creative process and her development as an artist. Gwen and Andy both think this book will not only entertain young readers, but may also inspire them to create their own comics. Finally, both of the folks with PhDs are very excited to discuss Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers, by MK Reed and Joe Flood. This is another book in First Second’s Get To Know Your Universe: Science Comics series. C’mon, everyone loves dinosaurs, and so will anyone who picks up this book. Gwen and Andy agree that Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers is a great non-fiction graphic novel that entertains and instructs. It can also be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, giving younger readers a great, fun look at dinosaurs, and providing older readers with the history of dinosaur research and discovery. This is a book that is bound to be explored many times by young readers, so maybe you’ll want to get two copies?

]]> 3461 no Episode 179 - Reviews of Patience and Visual Storytelling: An Illustrated Reader http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-179-reviews-of-patience-and-visual-storytelling-an-illustrated-reader This week on the review show, Andy and Derek focus on two notable titles, one that has been greatly publicized and the other that has come in under the radar. The former is Daniel Clowes’s Patience (Fantagraphics), the creator’s long-awaited release and his first new book since 2010’s Wilson. (Mr. Wonderful and The Death-Ray, both published in 2011, had been previously published in different formats.) In fact, the guys begin by discussing the publicity and the excitement surrounding this event. While Andy tried to keep himself ignorant of the book’s details before its release, Derek admits that his reading experience was initially affected by all the hype, and not in a positive way. However, both guys conclude that this is a strong narrative and one well worth reading. While much of Patience bears the Dan Clowes stamp, parts of it seem more outside of the creator’s usual style. For example, even though the relationship between the protagonists is reminiscent of the interactions found in Ghost World, Daniel Boring, and Ice Haven, the fact that Clowes premises everything on time travel make this book stand out in his oeuvre. And although, as Andy points out, there’s nothing really new to the time-travel subgenre presented here, Clowes does use its basic components in a compelling way. Next, the Two Guys discuss a work that was designed specifically for the classroom, Visual Storytelling: An Illustrated Reader, edited by Todd James Pierce and Ryan G. Van Cleave (Oxford University Press). This book was released late in 2015 yet hasn’t received much publicity at all. While there have been other comics-related books that are designed for pedagogical use, this is the first to bring together a wide variety of primary texts specifically as a course reader. What’s more, it’s a book that could easily be used in rhetoric/composition and other non-comics-centric classes, as well. Pierce and Van Cleave divide their collection into seven thematic topics: identity, men and women, young adulthood, trauma, history, politics, and the arts. The comics that compose each segment, some complete short pieces and others excerpts, serve as illustrative examples of their particular theme, while at the same time potentially connecting with other thematic sections, thereby giving the collection a feeling of cohesion. The guys admire the diversity of the reader’s selections, arguing that this is a much more usable book than the comics anthologies already out there. At the same time, Derek questions the editors double dipping on some contributors — Peter Kuper and Derf Backderf each have two pieces in the collection, while Gabrielle Bell has three — while Andy questions Derek’s second guessing of Pierce and Van Cleave’s decisions. But this is a debate that the guys always seem to have with anthologies. The bottom line is that Visual Storytelling is an exciting anthology perfect for the classroom, but it is also a collection that can be enjoyed outside of any pedagogical context. Wed, 16 Mar 2016 12:18:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Lesson Plans This week on the review show, Andy and Derek focus on two notable titles, one that has been greatly publicized and the other that has come in under the radar. The former is Daniel Clowes’s Patience (Fantagraphics), the creator’s long-awaited release and his first new book since 2010’s Wilson. (Mr. Wonderful and The Death-Ray, both published in 2011, had been previously published in different formats.) In fact, the guys begin by discussing the publicity and the excitement surrounding this event. While Andy tried to keep himself ignorant of the book’s details before its release, Derek admits that his reading experience was initially affected by all the hype, and not in a positive way. However, both guys conclude that this is a strong narrative and one well worth reading. While much of Patience bears the Dan Clowes stamp, parts of it seem more outside of the creator’s usual style. For example, even though the relationship between the protagonists is reminiscent of the interactions found in Ghost World, Daniel Boring, and Ice Haven, the fact that Clowes premises everything on time travel make this book stand out in his oeuvre. And although, as Andy points out, there’s nothing really new to the time-travel subgenre presented here, Clowes does use its basic components in a compelling way. Next, the Two Guys discuss a work that was designed specifically for the classroom, Visual Storytelling: An Illustrated Reader, edited by Todd James Pierce and Ryan G. Van Cleave (Oxford University Press). This book was released late in 2015 yet hasn’t received much publicity at all. While there have been other comics-related books that are designed for pedagogical use, this is the first to bring together a wide variety of primary texts specifically as a course reader. What’s more, it’s a book that could easily be used in rhetoric/composition and other non-comics-centric classes, as well. Pierce and Van Cleave divide their collection into seven thematic topics: identity, men and women, young adulthood, trauma, history, politics, and the arts. The comics that compose each segment, some complete short pieces and others excerpts, serve as illustrative examples of their particular theme, while at the same time potentially connecting with other thematic sections, thereby giving the collection a feeling of cohesion. The guys admire the diversity of the reader’s selections, arguing that this is a much more usable book than the comics anthologies already out there. At the same time, Derek questions the editors double dipping on some contributors — Peter Kuper and Derf Backderf each have two pieces in the collection, while Gabrielle Bell has three — while Andy questions Derek’s second guessing of Pierce and Van Cleave’s decisions. But this is a debate that the guys always seem to have with anthologies. The bottom line is that Visual Storytelling is an exciting anthology perfect for the classroom, but it is also a collection that can be enjoyed outside of any pedagogical context. This week on the review show, Andy and Derek focus on two notable titles, one that has been greatly publicized and the other that has come in under the radar. The former is Daniel Clowes’s Patience (Fantagraphics), the creator’s long-awaited release and his first new book since 2010’s Wilson. (Mr. Wonderful and The Death-Ray, both published in 2011, had been previously published in different formats.) In fact, the guys begin by discussing the publicity and the excitement surrounding this event. While Andy tried to keep himself ignorant of the book’s details before its release, Derek admits that his reading experience was initially affected by all the hype, and not in a positive way. However, both guys conclude that this is a strong narrative and one well worth reading. While much of Patience bears the Dan Clowes stamp, parts of it seem more outside of the creator’s usual style. For example, even though the relationship between the protagonists is reminiscent of the interactions found in Ghost World, Daniel Boring, and Ice Haven, the fact that Clowes premises everything on time travel make this book stand out in his oeuvre. And although, as Andy points out, there’s nothing really new to the time-travel subgenre presented here, Clowes does use its basic components in a compelling way. Next, the Two Guys discuss a work that was designed specifically for the classroom, Visual Storytelling: An Illustrated Reader, edited by Todd James Pierce and Ryan G. Van Cleave (Oxford University Press). This book was released late in 2015 yet hasn’t received much publicity at all. While there have been other comics-related books that are designed for pedagogical use, this is the first to bring together a wide variety of primary texts specifically as a course reader. What’s more, it’s a book that could easily be used in rhetoric/composition and other non-comics-centric classes, as well. Pierce and Van Cleave divide their collection into seven thematic topics: identity, men and women, young adulthood, trauma, history, politics, and the arts. The comics that compose each segment, some complete short pieces and others excerpts, serve as illustrative examples of their particular theme, while at the same time potentially connecting with other thematic sections, thereby giving the collection a feeling of cohesion. The guys admire the diversity of the reader’s selections, arguing that this is a much more usable book than the comics anthologies already out there. At the same time, Derek questions the editors double dipping on some contributors — Peter Kuper and Derf Backderf each have two pieces in the collection, while Gabrielle Bell has three — while Andy questions Derek’s second guessing of Pierce and Van Cleave’s decisions. But this is a debate that the guys always seem to have with anthologies. The bottom line is that Visual Storytelling is an exciting anthology perfect for the classroom, but it is also a collection that can be enjoyed outside of any pedagogical context.

]]> 5643 no Webcomics: Reviews of The Lost Oracle, Rickety Stitch & Gelatinous Goo, and Turncoat http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-the-lost-oracle-rickety-stitch-gelatinous-goo-and-turncoat On this month's webcomics show, Sean and Derek discuss three relatively fresh titles. They begin with Lho Brockhoff's The Lost Oracle, a webcomic that began in July 2015 and is just into its third chapter. This is a fantasy about a young girl, Amra, raised in an abandoned city and longing to see the world beyond. Yet, unbeknownst to Amra, some on the outside are seeking her, as well, and it's not entirely clear what this quest will have in store for the innocent protagonist. Next, the guys take a look at a completely different kind of quest, one involving a minstrel skeleton and a talking lump of goo. In Rickety Stitch & Gelatinous Goo, Ben Costa and James Parks create one of the weirdest buddy narratives you're likely to encounter. Their mixture of humor, adventure, and dark overtones make this webcomic stand out in ways that others haven't. Sean notes that the art and tone of Rickety Stitch, as well as that of The Lost Oracle, are reminiscent of Jeff Smith's epic Bone (in fact, Bone gets a lot of love on this month's episode). Costa and Parks have recently announced that their larger trilogy will begin being published next year by Knopf, and the portion of the narrative that is now available appears to be the core of that first volume. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with a different twist on the superhero story, a genre that the Two Guys rarely investigate. Ryan O’Sullivan and Plaid Klaus's Turncoat is a short and contained webcomic -- running between August 2015 and March 2016 -- about a mercenary group of villains who are hired to thin out the superhero population. It's protagonist, a malcontent name Duke, is short on generating reader appeal. However, as Derek points out, his saving grace is his pathetic nature, a character trait that generates at lest a modicum of sympathy. And while there's still time, you can get on board O'Sullivan and Klaus's Kickstarter campaign that is bringing out Turncoat in hardcopy format. Mon, 14 Mar 2016 12:24:35 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “There’s a lot of Bone today” On this month's webcomics show, Sean and Derek discuss three relatively fresh titles. They begin with Lho Brockhoff's The Lost Oracle, a webcomic that began in July 2015 and is just into its third chapter. This is a fantasy about a young girl, Amra, raised in an abandoned city and longing to see the world beyond. Yet, unbeknownst to Amra, some on the outside are seeking her, as well, and it's not entirely clear what this quest will have in store for the innocent protagonist. Next, the guys take a look at a completely different kind of quest, one involving a minstrel skeleton and a talking lump of goo. In Rickety Stitch & Gelatinous Goo, Ben Costa and James Parks create one of the weirdest buddy narratives you're likely to encounter. Their mixture of humor, adventure, and dark overtones make this webcomic stand out in ways that others haven't. Sean notes that the art and tone of Rickety Stitch, as well as that of The Lost Oracle, are reminiscent of Jeff Smith's epic Bone (in fact, Bone gets a lot of love on this month's episode). Costa and Parks have recently announced that their larger trilogy will begin being published next year by Knopf, and the portion of the narrative that is now available appears to be the core of that first volume. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with a different twist on the superhero story, a genre that the Two Guys rarely investigate. Ryan O’Sullivan and Plaid Klaus's Turncoat is a short and contained webcomic -- running between August 2015 and March 2016 -- about a mercenary group of villains who are hired to thin out the superhero population. It's protagonist, a malcontent name Duke, is short on generating reader appeal. However, as Derek points out, his saving grace is his pathetic nature, a character trait that generates at lest a modicum of sympathy. And while there's still time, you can get on board O'Sullivan and Klaus's Kickstarter campaign that is bringing out Turncoat in hardcopy format. On this month's webcomics show, Sean and Derek discuss three relatively fresh titles. They begin with Lho Brockhoff's The Lost Oracle, a webcomic that began in July 2015 and is just into its third chapter. This is a fantasy about a young girl, Amra, raised in an abandoned city and longing to see the world beyond. Yet, unbeknownst to Amra, some on the outside are seeking her, as well, and it's not entirely clear what this quest will have in store for the innocent protagonist. Next, the guys take a look at a completely different kind of quest, one involving a minstrel skeleton and a talking lump of goo. In Rickety Stitch & Gelatinous Goo, Ben Costa and James Parks create one of the weirdest buddy narratives you're likely to encounter. Their mixture of humor, adventure, and dark overtones make this webcomic stand out in ways that others haven't. Sean notes that the art and tone of Rickety Stitch, as well as that of The Lost Oracle, are reminiscent of Jeff Smith's epic Bone (in fact, Bone gets a lot of love on this month's episode). Costa and Parks have recently announced that their larger trilogy will begin being published next year by Knopf, and the portion of the narrative that is now available appears to be the core of that first volume. Finally, Sean and Derek wrap up with a different twist on the superhero story, a genre that the Two Guys rarely investigate. Ryan O’Sullivan and Plaid Klaus's Turncoat is a short and contained webcomic -- running between August 2015 and March 2016 -- about a mercenary group of villains who are hired to thin out the superhero population. It's protagonist, a malcontent name Duke, is short on generating reader appeal. However, as Derek points out, his saving grace is his pathetic nature, a character trait that generates at lest a modicum of sympathy. And while there's still time, you can get on board O'Sullivan and Klaus's Kickstarter campaign that is bringing out Turncoat in hardcopy format.

]]> 3901 no Episode 178 - Reviews of Nod Away, Gulag Casual, and Haunted Love #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-178-reviews-of-nod-away-gulag-casual-and-haunted-love-1 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics discuss three very different titles. They begin with Joshua W. Cotter's Nod Away (Fantagraphics), an ambitious sci-fi narrative that explores the impact, and the costs, of technological progress. At least that's what the guys think the book might be about. As both Andy W. and Derek point out, one of the distinguishing features of this book is its ambiguous or equivocal nature. There are many moving parts to this story -- hive communication, inter-dimensional wormholes, suspended animation, unexplained quests -- and the guys aren't entirely certain how all of the pieces fit together. But that's OK. Part of the beauty of Nod Away is that it paints a narrative picture best observed from a broader context, while at the same time the fine detail of Cotter's art compels us to investigate its many intricacies. The guys also speculate as to the significance of the title, another meaningfully uncertain facet of this book. Next, they look at Austin English's Gulag Casual. This book is part of 2dcloud's current "Winter Collection" Kickstarter campaign, and the the guys introduce the publisher, and its Kickstarter, to their listeners. English's book is a collection of five different stories, each of which challenges its readers in the ways of comprehending comics. Derek points out that the stories are very dream-like in their coherency, and the guys spend much of their discussion sharing their strategies for reading this unique text. They wrap up this week's episode by looking at another title from the offbeat mind of Craig Yoe. Haunted Love #1 is the first of a three-issue series from IDW Publishing and Yoe Comics, and it's another example of what Craig does best: showcasing precode comics with a mixture of amusement and reverence. As described on the issue's cover, it's "the unholy spawn of Haunted Horror and Weird Love" -- two tastes that go great together! -- so if listeners appreciate those Yoe-inspired series, then they'll go ga-ga for the seven stories collected in this first issue. There's a lot of weirdness to go around, but a couple of Andy and Derek's favorites are "The Dead Are Never Lonely" (originally published in Baffling Mysteries #14 in 1953) and especially "Crawling Evil" (Journey into Fear #10, 1952). Some of these stories are reminiscent of the classic EC style (such as "The Ice Man Cometh"), while others are just nonsensically whacked out. But the best thing about Haunted Love #1 is that it's classic Craig Yoe. And everyone needs mo' Yoe, right? Wed, 09 Mar 2016 13:22:02 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Intrusions This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics discuss three very different titles. They begin with Joshua W. Cotter's Nod Away (Fantagraphics), an ambitious sci-fi narrative that explores the impact, and the costs, of technological progress. At least that's what the guys think the book might be about. As both Andy W. and Derek point out, one of the distinguishing features of this book is its ambiguous or equivocal nature. There are many moving parts to this story -- hive communication, inter-dimensional wormholes, suspended animation, unexplained quests -- and the guys aren't entirely certain how all of the pieces fit together. But that's OK. Part of the beauty of Nod Away is that it paints a narrative picture best observed from a broader context, while at the same time the fine detail of Cotter's art compels us to investigate its many intricacies. The guys also speculate as to the significance of the title, another meaningfully uncertain facet of this book. Next, they look at Austin English's Gulag Casual. This book is part of 2dcloud's current "Winter Collection" Kickstarter campaign, and the the guys introduce the publisher, and its Kickstarter, to their listeners. English's book is a collection of five different stories, each of which challenges its readers in the ways of comprehending comics. Derek points out that the stories are very dream-like in their coherency, and the guys spend much of their discussion sharing their strategies for reading this unique text. They wrap up this week's episode by looking at another title from the offbeat mind of Craig Yoe. Haunted Love #1 is the first of a three-issue series from IDW Publishing and Yoe Comics, and it's another example of what Craig does best: showcasing precode comics with a mixture of amusement and reverence. As described on the issue's cover, it's "the unholy spawn of Haunted Horror and Weird Love" -- two tastes that go great together! -- so if listeners appreciate those Yoe-inspired series, then they'll go ga-ga for the seven stories collected in this first issue. There's a lot of weirdness to go around, but a couple of Andy and Derek's favorites are "The Dead Are Never Lonely" (originally published in Baffling Mysteries #14 in 1953) and especially "Crawling Evil" (Journey into Fear #10, 1952). Some of these stories are reminiscent of the classic EC style (such as "The Ice Man Cometh"), while others are just nonsensically whacked out. But the best thing about Haunted Love #1 is that it's classic Craig Yoe. And everyone needs mo' Yoe, right? This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics discuss three very different titles. They begin with Joshua W. Cotter's Nod Away (Fantagraphics), an ambitious sci-fi narrative that explores the impact, and the costs, of technological progress. At least that's what the guys think the book might be about. As both Andy W. and Derek point out, one of the distinguishing features of this book is its ambiguous or equivocal nature. There are many moving parts to this story -- hive communication, inter-dimensional wormholes, suspended animation, unexplained quests -- and the guys aren't entirely certain how all of the pieces fit together. But that's OK. Part of the beauty of Nod Away is that it paints a narrative picture best observed from a broader context, while at the same time the fine detail of Cotter's art compels us to investigate its many intricacies. The guys also speculate as to the significance of the title, another meaningfully uncertain facet of this book. Next, they look at Austin English's Gulag Casual. This book is part of 2dcloud's current "Winter Collection" Kickstarter campaign, and the the guys introduce the publisher, and its Kickstarter, to their listeners. English's book is a collection of five different stories, each of which challenges its readers in the ways of comprehending comics. Derek points out that the stories are very dream-like in their coherency, and the guys spend much of their discussion sharing their strategies for reading this unique text. They wrap up this week's episode by looking at another title from the offbeat mind of Craig Yoe. Haunted Love #1 is the first of a three-issue series from IDW Publishing and Yoe Comics, and it's another example of what Craig does best: showcasing precode comics with a mixture of amusement and reverence. As described on the issue's cover, it's "the unholy spawn of Haunted Horror and Weird Love" -- two tastes that go great together! -- so if listeners appreciate those Yoe-inspired series, then they'll go ga-ga for the seven stories collected in this first issue. There's a lot of weirdness to go around, but a couple of Andy and Derek's favorites are "The Dead Are Never Lonely" (originally published in Baffling Mysteries #14 in 1953) and especially "Crawling Evil" (Journey into Fear #10, 1952). Some of these stories are reminiscent of the classic EC style (such as "The Ice Man Cometh"), while others are just nonsensically whacked out. But the best thing about Haunted Love #1 is that it's classic Craig Yoe. And everyone needs mo' Yoe, right?

]]> 4844 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Evan Dorkin, Pt. 2 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-evan-dorkin-pt-2 The Two Guys are back with the second half of their marathon interview with Evan Dorkin. This installment picks up where yesterday's segment left off, in a discussion of the Beasts of Burden series. Derek asks if this Dark Horse title has become a defining work of Evan's, if he's now known as the "Beasts of Burden guy" instead of the "Milk and Cheese guy." And Evan goes on to share some information on the next comic in the series, What the Cat Dragged In, and his continued working relationship with Jill Thompson. Also in this half, the conversation gets more superhero-y, with Evan discussing his work with DC's World's Funnest and Bizarro Comics and his creation of Fight-Man for Marvel. He also expresses his unfiltered thoughts on current superhero fan culture, including the ridiculous premises surrounding Peter Parker's Aunt May -- "I almost married Doctor Octopus. That’s how fucked up my life is" -- and the unlikely reality of today's box office hits: "Shit, it’s Ant-Man. I’m paying money to see Ant-Man…Fucking Ant-Man!" Along the way the guys also talk about Bill and Ted's Excellent Comic Book, Space Ghost Coast to Coast, Yo Gabba Gabba!, Milk and Cheese, and the new Stela project with Sarah Dyer (his wife), Calla Cthulhu. There is a lot packed into this part of the conversation, and, when set alongside yesterday's first half, it is the longest interview in the history of The Comics Alternative. And that's just dorkalicious! Tue, 08 Mar 2016 11:30:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "I don't have a successful record of making people happy" The Two Guys are back with the second half of their marathon interview with Evan Dorkin. This installment picks up where yesterday's segment left off, in a discussion of the Beasts of Burden series. Derek asks if this Dark Horse title has become a defining work of Evan's, if he's now known as the "Beasts of Burden guy" instead of the "Milk and Cheese guy." And Evan goes on to share some information on the next comic in the series, What the Cat Dragged In, and his continued working relationship with Jill Thompson. Also in this half, the conversation gets more superhero-y, with Evan discussing his work with DC's World's Funnest and Bizarro Comics and his creation of Fight-Man for Marvel. He also expresses his unfiltered thoughts on current superhero fan culture, including the ridiculous premises surrounding Peter Parker's Aunt May -- "I almost married Doctor Octopus. That’s how fucked up my life is" -- and the unlikely reality of today's box office hits: "Shit, it’s Ant-Man. I’m paying money to see Ant-Man…Fucking Ant-Man!" Along the way the guys also talk about Bill and Ted's Excellent Comic Book, Space Ghost Coast to Coast, Yo Gabba Gabba!, Milk and Cheese, and the new Stela project with Sarah Dyer (his wife), Calla Cthulhu. There is a lot packed into this part of the conversation, and, when set alongside yesterday's first half, it is the longest interview in the history of The Comics Alternative. And that's just dorkalicious! The Two Guys are back with the second half of their marathon interview with Evan Dorkin. This installment picks up where yesterday's segment left off, in a discussion of the Beasts of Burden series. Derek asks if this Dark Horse title has become a defining work of Evan's, if he's now known as the "Beasts of Burden guy" instead of the "Milk and Cheese guy." And Evan goes on to share some information on the next comic in the series, What the Cat Dragged In, and his continued working relationship with Jill Thompson. Also in this half, the conversation gets more superhero-y, with Evan discussing his work with DC's World's Funnest and Bizarro Comics and his creation of Fight-Man for Marvel. He also expresses his unfiltered thoughts on current superhero fan culture, including the ridiculous premises surrounding Peter Parker's Aunt May -- "I almost married Doctor Octopus. That’s how fucked up my life is" -- and the unlikely reality of today's box office hits: "Shit, it’s Ant-Man. I’m paying money to see Ant-Man…Fucking Ant-Man!" Along the way the guys also talk about Bill and Ted's Excellent Comic Book, Space Ghost Coast to Coast, Yo Gabba Gabba!, Milk and Cheese, and the new Stela project with Sarah Dyer (his wife), Calla Cthulhu. There is a lot packed into this part of the conversation, and, when set alongside yesterday's first half, it is the longest interview in the history of The Comics Alternative. And that's just dorkalicious!

]]> 5805 yes Comics Alternative Interviews - Evan Dorkin, Pt. 1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-evan-dorkin-pt-1 Have you ever listened to an interview on The Comics Alternative and thought, "That was good, but I wish the Two Guys had talked longer with their guest?" If so, then this conversation will scratch that itch...and more. In this episode Gene and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Evan Dorkin, and getting much more than they bargained for. In fact, the interview lasted over two hours and forty-five minutes, so the guys decided to break up the conversation over two episodes. In this first half of the interview, Derek and Gene talk with Evan about The Eltingville Club, released last month from Dark Horse Books -- and reviewed by the guys a few weeks ago -- and how his experiences with comics culture all fed into the stories. Along with this, they discuss the pilot of Welcome to Eltingville and the twists and turns of creating the animation during the early days of Adult Swim. The guys also begin talking with Evan about his and Jill Thompson's Beasts of Burden series and how this has become one of his career-defining works. (They continue their conversation on Beasts of Burden in the second half of the interview.) And they learn, much to their excitement, that Evan would like to bring back his wild series, Dork, in some manner. As you might expect in an interview with the creator of Milk and Cheese, hilarity abounds. The guys point out that this is not only the longest interview they've ever conducted, but also one packed with the most laughs. Among other topics, you'll hear Evan talk about the absurdities of convention culture, the sheer idiocy of Seth MacFarlane's Family Guy -- "the Trump of animation" -- and his complete disregard for Batman's gadgets. Plus, he berates Derek for not remembering the role of Ecto-1 in the last Eltingville Club story. What more could you want in a podcast interview? But there IS more to this interview. Be sure to return tomorrow for the second half! Mon, 07 Mar 2016 13:31:49 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “I don’t want to know how Batman’s equipment works…and I don’t mean his junk“ Have you ever listened to an interview on The Comics Alternative and thought, "That was good, but I wish the Two Guys had talked longer with their guest?" If so, then this conversation will scratch that itch...and more. In this episode Gene and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Evan Dorkin, and getting much more than they bargained for. In fact, the interview lasted over two hours and forty-five minutes, so the guys decided to break up the conversation over two episodes. In this first half of the interview, Derek and Gene talk with Evan about The Eltingville Club, released last month from Dark Horse Books -- and reviewed by the guys a few weeks ago -- and how his experiences with comics culture all fed into the stories. Along with this, they discuss the pilot of Welcome to Eltingville and the twists and turns of creating the animation during the early days of Adult Swim. The guys also begin talking with Evan about his and Jill Thompson's Beasts of Burden series and how this has become one of his career-defining works. (They continue their conversation on Beasts of Burden in the second half of the interview.) And they learn, much to their excitement, that Evan would like to bring back his wild series, Dork, in some manner. As you might expect in an interview with the creator of Milk and Cheese, hilarity abounds. The guys point out that this is not only the longest interview they've ever conducted, but also one packed with the most laughs. Among other topics, you'll hear Evan talk about the absurdities of convention culture, the sheer idiocy of Seth MacFarlane's Family Guy -- "the Trump of animation" -- and his complete disregard for Batman's gadgets. Plus, he berates Derek for not remembering the role of Ecto-1 in the last Eltingville Club story. What more could you want in a podcast interview? But there IS more to this interview. Be sure to return tomorrow for the second half! Have you ever listened to an interview on The Comics Alternative and thought, "That was good, but I wish the Two Guys had talked longer with their guest?" If so, then this conversation will scratch that itch...and more. In this episode Gene and Derek have the pleasure of talking with Evan Dorkin, and getting much more than they bargained for. In fact, the interview lasted over two hours and forty-five minutes, so the guys decided to break up the conversation over two episodes. In this first half of the interview, Derek and Gene talk with Evan about The Eltingville Club, released last month from Dark Horse Books -- and reviewed by the guys a few weeks ago -- and how his experiences with comics culture all fed into the stories. Along with this, they discuss the pilot of Welcome to Eltingville and the twists and turns of creating the animation during the early days of Adult Swim. The guys also begin talking with Evan about his and Jill Thompson's Beasts of Burden series and how this has become one of his career-defining works. (They continue their conversation on Beasts of Burden in the second half of the interview.) And they learn, much to their excitement, that Evan would like to bring back his wild series, Dork, in some manner. As you might expect in an interview with the creator of Milk and Cheese, hilarity abounds. The guys point out that this is not only the longest interview they've ever conducted, but also one packed with the most laughs. Among other topics, you'll hear Evan talk about the absurdities of convention culture, the sheer idiocy of Seth MacFarlane's Family Guy -- "the Trump of animation" -- and his complete disregard for Batman's gadgets. Plus, he berates Derek for not remembering the role of Ecto-1 in the last Eltingville Club story. What more could you want in a podcast interview?

But there IS more to this interview. Be sure to return tomorrow for the second half!

]]> 5626 yes Comics Alternative Special - Talking with Bob Andelman for Will Eisner Week http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-special-talking-with-bob-andelman-for-will-eisner-week For Will Eisner Week 2016, Derek talks with Eisner's authorized biographer, Bob Andelman. The second edition of his book, Will Eisner: A Spirited Life, was released last summer by TwoMorrows Publishing, expanding significantly on the 2005 edition in a deluxe, full-color volume. In the conversation, Bob discusses the genesis of the project and how he came to meet Eisner. He also shares several of his most memorable moments working with the legend, as well as some of the challenges in writing the biography. This recent deluxe edition, in particular, allowed him to expand his initial work and offer a more complete picture of the man. Derek talks with Bob about how the addition of brand new interviews, as well as archival material and legal documentation not available at the time of his first edition, rounds out the biography and makes Will Eisner more fully human and less of an abstracted icon. They also discuss the various stages of Eisner's life and the different tones he struck in his comics, such as the autobiographical reflections found in To the Heart of the Storm, the sentimentality of Invisible People, the stark naturalism underlying Dropsie Avenue, the polemical turn of The Plot, and the innovative adventure that defined The Spirit newspaper inserts. All in all, you will find in this episode a spirited conversation -- sorry for the predictable pun -- with a writer and pop cultural critic that was a long time in coming. Fri, 04 Mar 2016 12:56:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Spirited Discussion For Will Eisner Week 2016, Derek talks with Eisner's authorized biographer, Bob Andelman. The second edition of his book, Will Eisner: A Spirited Life, was released last summer by TwoMorrows Publishing, expanding significantly on the 2005 edition in a deluxe, full-color volume. In the conversation, Bob discusses the genesis of the project and how he came to meet Eisner. He also shares several of his most memorable moments working with the legend, as well as some of the challenges in writing the biography. This recent deluxe edition, in particular, allowed him to expand his initial work and offer a more complete picture of the man. Derek talks with Bob about how the addition of brand new interviews, as well as archival material and legal documentation not available at the time of his first edition, rounds out the biography and makes Will Eisner more fully human and less of an abstracted icon. They also discuss the various stages of Eisner's life and the different tones he struck in his comics, such as the autobiographical reflections found in To the Heart of the Storm, the sentimentality of Invisible People, the stark naturalism underlying Dropsie Avenue, the polemical turn of The Plot, and the innovative adventure that defined The Spirit newspaper inserts. All in all, you will find in this episode a spirited conversation -- sorry for the predictable pun -- with a writer and pop cultural critic that was a long time in coming. For Will Eisner Week 2016, Derek talks with Eisner's authorized biographer, Bob Andelman. The second edition of his book, Will Eisner: A Spirited Life, was released last summer by TwoMorrows Publishing, expanding significantly on the 2005 edition in a deluxe, full-color volume. In the conversation, Bob discusses the genesis of the project and how he came to meet Eisner. He also shares several of his most memorable moments working with the legend, as well as some of the challenges in writing the biography. This recent deluxe edition, in particular, allowed him to expand his initial work and offer a more complete picture of the man. Derek talks with Bob about how the addition of brand new interviews, as well as archival material and legal documentation not available at the time of his first edition, rounds out the biography and makes Will Eisner more fully human and less of an abstracted icon. They also discuss the various stages of Eisner's life and the different tones he struck in his comics, such as the autobiographical reflections found in To the Heart of the Storm, the sentimentality of Invisible People, the stark naturalism underlying Dropsie Avenue, the polemical turn of The Plot, and the innovative adventure that defined The Spirit newspaper inserts. All in all, you will find in this episode a spirited conversation -- sorry for the predictable pun -- with a writer and pop cultural critic that was a long time in coming.

]]> 5453 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Sonny Liew http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-sonny-liew On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Sonny Liew, whose latest work, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, was just released from Pantheon Books. They talk with the author about his mock biography and how it engages with comic-book history, the tumultuous politics of Singapore, and his own creative influences. Sonny also discusses the genesis of the project and his strategic use of distinctive art styles reminiscent of Osama Tezuka, Walt Kelly, Harvey Kurtzman, Frank Miller, and Jack Kirby, among others. This mixture of styles and genre influences makes The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye a unique work that’s difficult to pin down. It’s different from anything else out there. Gwen and Derek also ask Sonny about his current work with Paul Levitz on Doctor Fate as well as the possibility of future Shadow Heroor Malinky Robot stories. Thu, 03 Mar 2016 13:52:01 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Drawn from History On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Sonny Liew, whose latest work, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, was just released from Pantheon Books. They talk with the author about his mock biography and how it engages with comic-book history, the tumultuous politics of Singapore, and his own creative influences. Sonny also discusses the genesis of the project and his strategic use of distinctive art styles reminiscent of Osama Tezuka, Walt Kelly, Harvey Kurtzman, Frank Miller, and Jack Kirby, among others. This mixture of styles and genre influences makes The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye a unique work that’s difficult to pin down. It’s different from anything else out there. Gwen and Derek also ask Sonny about his current work with Paul Levitz on Doctor Fate as well as the possibility of future Shadow Heroor Malinky Robot stories. On this interview episode, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Sonny Liew, whose latest work, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, was just released from Pantheon Books. They talk with the author about his mock biography and how it engages with comic-book history, the tumultuous politics of Singapore, and his own creative influences. Sonny also discusses the genesis of the project and his strategic use of distinctive art styles reminiscent of Osama Tezuka, Walt Kelly, Harvey Kurtzman, Frank Miller, and Jack Kirby, among others. This mixture of styles and genre influences makes The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye a unique work that’s difficult to pin down. It’s different from anything else out there. Gwen and Derek also ask Sonny about his current work with Paul Levitz on Doctor Fate as well as the possibility of future Shadow Heroor Malinky Robot stories.

]]> 3967 no Episode 177 - The March Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-177-the-march-previews-catalog It’s time, once again, to take a look at the current month’s Previews catalog. This time around, Derek is joined by Paul Lai, the editor of The Comics Alternative‘s blog. Although he’s been working with the Two Guys since late last year, this is the first time that Paul has cohosted a podcast episode. And his first time out is a doozie! He and Derek take an extra-long, two-and-a-half-hour stroll through the March Previews solicits, highlighting upcoming releases from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics – Lobster Johnson: Metal Monsters of Midtown #1, Joe Golem: Occult Detective, Vol. 1, Mystery Girl, Vol. 1, and Wandering Island DC/Vertigo – Future Quest #1, Prez: The First Teenage President, and Flinch, Book Two IDW Publishing – Archangel #1, Weird Love: I Joined a Teen-Age Sex Cult, Cigarette Girl, and The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen Image Comics – Renato Jones: The One% #1, 3 Floyds: Alpha King #1, Plutona, and Pop Gun War: Gift Abstract Studios – Rachel Rising #42 AdHouse – Talk Dirty to Me Alternative Comics – Study Group Magazine #4, Titan #3, Video Tonfa, and Why Would You Do That? Avatar Press – Providence: Act 1 and Cinema Purgatorio #1 BOOM! Studios – Weavers #1 and The Black Dahlia Conundrum Press – 20 x 20: Twenty Years of Conundrum Press, Blackbird, and Paul Up North Dover Publications – Private Beach: The Complete Collection Drawn and Quarterly – Club Life in Moominvalley and Secretimes Fantagraphics Books – Real Deal Comix, Boys Club, Disquiet, and The Complete Peanuts: 1999-2000 First Second – Hippopotamister and Something New: Tales from a Makeshift Bride Koyama Press – Night Air Pantheon Books – Everything Is Teeth: A Graphic Memoir SelfMadeHero – Agatha: The Real Life of Agatha Christie and The Art Masters Series, Vol. 3: Munch Uncivilized Books – Jacob Bladders and the State of the Art and Rules for Dating My Daughter Along the way, the guys discuss recent comics news — such as DC’s questionable “rebirth” and Image’ new Previews catalog magazine, Image+ — and even go off on a couple of rants. Derek, in particular, rags on both Marvel corporate practices and mindless Donald Trump supporters, and with a couple of “amens” from Paul. And what the hell is Smosh…and why should the guys care? But it’s the kind of jovial, curmudgeonly goodness that has come to mark The Comics Alternative brand. Accept no substitutes! Wed, 02 Mar 2016 13:15:33 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “I’ll own up to the curmudgeonliness” It’s time, once again, to take a look at the current month’s Previews catalog. This time around, Derek is joined by Paul Lai, the editor of The Comics Alternative‘s blog. Although he’s been working with the Two Guys since late last year, this is the first time that Paul has cohosted a podcast episode. And his first time out is a doozie! He and Derek take an extra-long, two-and-a-half-hour stroll through the March Previews solicits, highlighting upcoming releases from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics – Lobster Johnson: Metal Monsters of Midtown #1, Joe Golem: Occult Detective, Vol. 1, Mystery Girl, Vol. 1, and Wandering Island DC/Vertigo – Future Quest #1, Prez: The First Teenage President, and Flinch, Book Two IDW Publishing – Archangel #1, Weird Love: I Joined a Teen-Age Sex Cult, Cigarette Girl, and The Adventures of Dieter Lumpen Image Comics – Renato Jones: The One% #1, 3 Floyds: Alpha King #1, Plutona, and Pop Gun War: Gift Abstract Studios – Rachel Rising #42 AdHouse – Talk Dirty to Me Alternative Comics – Study Group Magazine #4, Titan #3, Video Tonfa, and Why Would You Do That? Avatar Press – Providence: Act 1 and Cinema Purgatorio #1 BOOM! Studios – Weavers #1 and The Black Dahlia Conundrum Press – 20 x 20: Twenty Years of Conundrum Press, Blackbird, and Paul Up North Dover Publications – Private Beach: The Complete Collection Drawn and Quarterly – Club Life in Moominvalley and Secretimes Fantagraphics Books – Real Deal Comix, Boys Club, Disquiet, and The Complete Peanuts: 1999-2000 First Second – Hippopotamister and Something New: Tales from a Makeshift Bride Koyama Press – Night Air Pantheon Books – Everything Is Teeth: A Graphic Memoir SelfMadeHero – Agatha: The Real Life of Agatha Christie and The Art Masters Series, Vol. 3: Munch Uncivilized Books – Jacob Bladders and the State of the Art and Rules for Dating My Daughter Along the way, the guys discuss recent comics news — such as DC’s questionable “rebirth” and Image’ new Previews catalog magazine, Image+ — and even go off on a couple of rants. Derek, in particular, rags on both Marvel corporate practices and mindless Donald Trump supporters, and with a couple of “amens” from Paul. And what the hell is Smosh…and why should the guys care? But it’s the kind of jovial, curmudgeonly goodness that has come to mark The Comics Alternative brand. Accept no substitutes! It’s time, once again, to take a look at the current month’s Previews catalog. This time around, Derek is joined by Paul Lai, the editor of The Comics Alternative‘s blog. Although he’s been working with the Two Guys since late last year, this is the first time that Paul has cohosted a podcast episode. And his first time out is a doozie! He and Derek take an extra-long, two-and-a-half-hour stroll through the March Previews solicits, highlighting upcoming releases from publishers such as

Along the way, the guys discuss recent comics news — such as DC’s questionable “rebirth” and Image’ new Previews catalog magazine, Image+ — and even go off on a couple of rants. Derek, in particular, rags on both Marvel corporate practices and mindless Donald Trump supporters, and with a couple of “amens” from Paul. And what the hell is Smosh…and why should the guys care? But it’s the kind of jovial, curmudgeonly goodness that has come to mark The Comics Alternative brand. Accept no substitutes!

]]> 9185 no Manga - Reviews of School Judgment 1 and A Drifting Life http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-school-judgment-1-and-a-drifting-life On the February manga show, Shea and Derek look at a new title and an older title. They begin with a discussion of School Judgment 1, recently released by VIZ Media. Written by Nobuaki Enoki and with art by Takeshi Obata -- perhaps best known for his work on Death Note -- this is the first book in a series that has a unique premise. In fact, the guys comment several times on the wacky setup of School Judgment: a legal arbitration system established in Japan's elementary schools, where the students themselves try criminal cases serving as judge, prosecution, and defense. In this first installment, the protagonists Abaku Inugami (for the defense) and Pine Hanzuki (prosecution) battle over three strange cases, with the book ending by setting up a fourth. Shea and Derek discuss the weirdness and the social pertinence of the storylines, including arbitration concerning both drug use and pedophilic voyeurism. After that, they look at at Yoshihiro Tatsumi's A Drifting Life (Drawn & Quarterly). With an original English publication of 2009, this is Tatsumi's slightly veiled autobiography and a look at his growth as a manga artist. In fact, Derek points out that the book can best be read as a künstlerroman, a narrative about an artist's growth to personal and creative maturity. This is a hefty book of over 830 pages, a marked difference from the kind of short-form manga that Tatsumi is best known for. Indeed, both Shea and Derek contrast reading A Drifting Life to their experiences with his short-story collections, such as The Push Man and Other Stories, Abandon the Old in Tokyo, Good-Bye, and Fallen Worlds (also published in English by Drawn & Quarterly). While the shorter slice-of-life narratives are clear examples of gekiga, an alternative manga form advocated by Tatsumi himself, this autobiographical work is more conventional. And being a retrospective look back at his early life, Tatsumi brings into his story the real-life artists that inspired him and served as his companions and competitors, including Osamu Tezuka, Masahiko Matsumoto, Takao Saito, and Susumu Yamamori. As the guys conclude, this is an outstanding book and the perfect introduction to the world of Yoshihiro Tatsumi. Tue, 01 Mar 2016 14:38:25 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Wacky all the way around” On the February manga show, Shea and Derek look at a new title and an older title. They begin with a discussion of School Judgment 1, recently released by VIZ Media. Written by Nobuaki Enoki and with art by Takeshi Obata -- perhaps best known for his work on Death Note -- this is the first book in a series that has a unique premise. In fact, the guys comment several times on the wacky setup of School Judgment: a legal arbitration system established in Japan's elementary schools, where the students themselves try criminal cases serving as judge, prosecution, and defense. In this first installment, the protagonists Abaku Inugami (for the defense) and Pine Hanzuki (prosecution) battle over three strange cases, with the book ending by setting up a fourth. Shea and Derek discuss the weirdness and the social pertinence of the storylines, including arbitration concerning both drug use and pedophilic voyeurism. After that, they look at at Yoshihiro Tatsumi's A Drifting Life (Drawn & Quarterly). With an original English publication of 2009, this is Tatsumi's slightly veiled autobiography and a look at his growth as a manga artist. In fact, Derek points out that the book can best be read as a künstlerroman, a narrative about an artist's growth to personal and creative maturity. This is a hefty book of over 830 pages, a marked difference from the kind of short-form manga that Tatsumi is best known for. Indeed, both Shea and Derek contrast reading A Drifting Life to their experiences with his short-story collections, such as The Push Man and Other Stories, Abandon the Old in Tokyo, Good-Bye, and Fallen Worlds (also published in English by Drawn & Quarterly). While the shorter slice-of-life narratives are clear examples of gekiga, an alternative manga form advocated by Tatsumi himself, this autobiographical work is more conventional. And being a retrospective look back at his early life, Tatsumi brings into his story the real-life artists that inspired him and served as his companions and competitors, including Osamu Tezuka, Masahiko Matsumoto, Takao Saito, and Susumu Yamamori. As the guys conclude, this is an outstanding book and the perfect introduction to the world of Yoshihiro Tatsumi. On the February manga show, Shea and Derek look at a new title and an older title. They begin with a discussion of School Judgment 1, recently released by VIZ Media. Written by Nobuaki Enoki and with art by Takeshi Obata -- perhaps best known for his work on Death Note -- this is the first book in a series that has a unique premise. In fact, the guys comment several times on the wacky setup of School Judgment: a legal arbitration system established in Japan's elementary schools, where the students themselves try criminal cases serving as judge, prosecution, and defense. In this first installment, the protagonists Abaku Inugami (for the defense) and Pine Hanzuki (prosecution) battle over three strange cases, with the book ending by setting up a fourth. Shea and Derek discuss the weirdness and the social pertinence of the storylines, including arbitration concerning both drug use and pedophilic voyeurism. After that, they look at at Yoshihiro Tatsumi's A Drifting Life (Drawn & Quarterly). With an original English publication of 2009, this is Tatsumi's slightly veiled autobiography and a look at his growth as a manga artist. In fact, Derek points out that the book can best be read as a künstlerroman, a narrative about an artist's growth to personal and creative maturity. This is a hefty book of over 830 pages, a marked difference from the kind of short-form manga that Tatsumi is best known for. Indeed, both Shea and Derek contrast reading A Drifting Life to their experiences with his short-story collections, such as The Push Man and Other Stories, Abandon the Old in Tokyo, Good-Bye, and Fallen Worlds (also published in English by Drawn & Quarterly). While the shorter slice-of-life narratives are clear examples of gekiga, an alternative manga form advocated by Tatsumi himself, this autobiographical work is more conventional. And being a retrospective look back at his early life, Tatsumi brings into his story the real-life artists that inspired him and served as his companions and competitors, including Osamu Tezuka, Masahiko Matsumoto, Takao Saito, and Susumu Yamamori. As the guys conclude, this is an outstanding book and the perfect introduction to the world of Yoshihiro Tatsumi.

]]> 5897 no Episode 176 - Reviews of Renée and The Discipline #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-176-reviews-of-rene-and-the-discipline-1 On this week's review episode, Andy and Derek delve into two new and exciting titles. They start with Ludovic Debeurme's Renée (Top Shelf Productions), the followup to his 2011 release, Lucille. In fact, the guys begin their discussion by describing the earlier book and setting the stage for what they see in the recent narrative. Renée picks up on the story of Debeurme's young protagonists, Lucille and Arthur, and weaves within a third character, Renée Bruissiez, another troubled figure struggling with both family and relationship issues. Indeed, her dilemma thematically resembles those of both Arthur and Lucille, and Debeurme juxtaposes these storylines so that Renée reads somewhat like a psychological conversation. But the Two Guys also note the differences between the two graphic novels. Whereas the art in Lucille is more simple and iconic, Debeurme's illustrative style in the new book is more detailed and highly textured. In addition, there's a more surreal or dreamlike feel to Renée, and at times the storytelling style and visual characterization reminds the guys of a cross between Charles Burns and Daniel Clowes. They wrap up their conversation by observing that, although there's no textual hint of one, Renée ends in such a way that would warrant yet another volume. Next, Derek and Andy jump into the more edgy and forbidden world of Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez. The first issue of their new series, The Discipline (Image Comics), will be released in early March, but the guys take an early look at what readers can expect. In the inaugural issue we are introduced to Melissa, an attractive yet sexually frustrated young wife whose husband seems to provide her with nothing other than financial security. While in a museum being mesmerized by a provocative Goya painting, she meets Orlando, whose seductive lure ultimately pulls her into strange world that might best be described as a mix of BDSM and fantasy. Things heat up and take unexpected turns, making it a much more risqué take on relationships than Milligan's other current title, New Romancer. The guys conclude that this first issue of The Discipline doesn't disappoint, and that it's a title definitely worth following on a monthly basis. Wed, 24 Feb 2016 14:19:19 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Face to face, and hand to crotch" On this week's review episode, Andy and Derek delve into two new and exciting titles. They start with Ludovic Debeurme's Renée (Top Shelf Productions), the followup to his 2011 release, Lucille. In fact, the guys begin their discussion by describing the earlier book and setting the stage for what they see in the recent narrative. Renée picks up on the story of Debeurme's young protagonists, Lucille and Arthur, and weaves within a third character, Renée Bruissiez, another troubled figure struggling with both family and relationship issues. Indeed, her dilemma thematically resembles those of both Arthur and Lucille, and Debeurme juxtaposes these storylines so that Renée reads somewhat like a psychological conversation. But the Two Guys also note the differences between the two graphic novels. Whereas the art in Lucille is more simple and iconic, Debeurme's illustrative style in the new book is more detailed and highly textured. In addition, there's a more surreal or dreamlike feel to Renée, and at times the storytelling style and visual characterization reminds the guys of a cross between Charles Burns and Daniel Clowes. They wrap up their conversation by observing that, although there's no textual hint of one, Renée ends in such a way that would warrant yet another volume. Next, Derek and Andy jump into the more edgy and forbidden world of Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez. The first issue of their new series, The Discipline (Image Comics), will be released in early March, but the guys take an early look at what readers can expect. In the inaugural issue we are introduced to Melissa, an attractive yet sexually frustrated young wife whose husband seems to provide her with nothing other than financial security. While in a museum being mesmerized by a provocative Goya painting, she meets Orlando, whose seductive lure ultimately pulls her into strange world that might best be described as a mix of BDSM and fantasy. Things heat up and take unexpected turns, making it a much more risqué take on relationships than Milligan's other current title, New Romancer. The guys conclude that this first issue of The Discipline doesn't disappoint, and that it's a title definitely worth following on a monthly basis. On this week's review episode, Andy and Derek delve into two new and exciting titles. They start with Ludovic Debeurme's Renée (Top Shelf Productions), the followup to his 2011 release, Lucille. In fact, the guys begin their discussion by describing the earlier book and setting the stage for what they see in the recent narrative. Renée picks up on the story of Debeurme's young protagonists, Lucille and Arthur, and weaves within a third character, Renée Bruissiez, another troubled figure struggling with both family and relationship issues. Indeed, her dilemma thematically resembles those of both Arthur and Lucille, and Debeurme juxtaposes these storylines so that Renée reads somewhat like a psychological conversation. But the Two Guys also note the differences between the two graphic novels. Whereas the art in Lucille is more simple and iconic, Debeurme's illustrative style in the new book is more detailed and highly textured. In addition, there's a more surreal or dreamlike feel to Renée, and at times the storytelling style and visual characterization reminds the guys of a cross between Charles Burns and Daniel Clowes. They wrap up their conversation by observing that, although there's no textual hint of one, Renée ends in such a way that would warrant yet another volume. Next, Derek and Andy jump into the more edgy and forbidden world of Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez. The first issue of their new series, The Discipline (Image Comics), will be released in early March, but the guys take an early look at what readers can expect. In the inaugural issue we are introduced to Melissa, an attractive yet sexually frustrated young wife whose husband seems to provide her with nothing other than financial security. While in a museum being mesmerized by a provocative Goya painting, she meets Orlando, whose seductive lure ultimately pulls her into strange world that might best be described as a mix of BDSM and fantasy. Things heat up and take unexpected turns, making it a much more risqué take on relationships than Milligan's other current title, New Romancer. The guys conclude that this first issue of The Discipline doesn't disappoint, and that it's a title definitely worth following on a monthly basis.

]]> 4689 no Episode 175 - Reviews of The Eltingville Club, Cry Havoc #1, and The Dark and Bloody #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-175-reviews-of-the-eltingville-club-cry-havoc-1-and-the-dark-and-bloody-1 This week on The Comics Alternative Gene and Derek focus on the funny, the poignant, and the creepy. They begin with Evan Dorkin's The Eltingville Club (Dark Horse Books), a nice hardbound edition that collects all of the Eltingville Club stories published over the past twenty years. This is Dorkin's twisted, and at times acerbic, love letter to geek and collecting culture. Bill, Josh, Pete, and Jerry make up the Eltingville Comic Book, Science-Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Role-Playing Club, and their antics are as hilarious as they are painful to read. This is because Dorkin cuts to the bone of fandom, and readers will probably recognize these scenarios and contexts from their own lives. Indeed, in a short essay toward the end of the volume, Dorkin himself admits that many of the stories are based on his fan-obsessed experiences growing up, as well as on the darker side of the culture he's witnessed as a creator. Yet as uncomfortable as these stories can get at times, they are some of the funniest comics you'll read all year. What else would expect from the creator of Milk and Cheese, Dork, and Dick Wad of the Mega-Vice Squad? Next, the guys take a look at Cry Havoc #1, written by Simon Spurrier with art by Ryan Kelly (Image Comics). This is the start of what appears to be a unique take on the werewolf narrative. At least this is what Derek and Gene think might be the case. They're not entirely sure, because this first issue leaves a lot of questions unanswered, and not necessarily in a good serial-driven way. As the guys discuss, there are parts of this story that are a bit confusing but whose uncertainty will probably be addressed with the completion of the first narrative arc. The creators even saw fit to annotate this #1 issue, which raises additional questions about the story's ability to stand on its own. Still, Kelly's art is worth the price of admission, and the series' use of multiple colorists, each creating a different mood, makes this a title worth watching. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Shawn Aldridge and Scott Godlewski's The Dark and Bloody #1. This is the beginning of a new Vertigo Comics series, the first since the publisher launched its twelve next-wave titles back in the fall (and for an in-depth look at those series, check out episode 170). Derek, in particular, likes this inaugural issue, feeling that it does a good job of setting up the premise with just the right amount of story tease. By contrast, Gene isn't as enamored of the issue and feels that this isn't the kind of Vertigo comic he had once grown to love (and admittedly, Gene hasn't been keeping up with the publisher in quite a while). Much like Cry Havoc, this is also another monster tale with, as of now, an ambiguous and ill-defined terror. And, in an offbeat way, it's the perfect companion to Dorkin's Eltingville Club, a book with its own kind of monstrosities. Wed, 17 Feb 2016 13:06:51 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Process and Paratext This week on The Comics Alternative Gene and Derek focus on the funny, the poignant, and the creepy. They begin with Evan Dorkin's The Eltingville Club (Dark Horse Books), a nice hardbound edition that collects all of the Eltingville Club stories published over the past twenty years. This is Dorkin's twisted, and at times acerbic, love letter to geek and collecting culture. Bill, Josh, Pete, and Jerry make up the Eltingville Comic Book, Science-Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Role-Playing Club, and their antics are as hilarious as they are painful to read. This is because Dorkin cuts to the bone of fandom, and readers will probably recognize these scenarios and contexts from their own lives. Indeed, in a short essay toward the end of the volume, Dorkin himself admits that many of the stories are based on his fan-obsessed experiences growing up, as well as on the darker side of the culture he's witnessed as a creator. Yet as uncomfortable as these stories can get at times, they are some of the funniest comics you'll read all year. What else would expect from the creator of Milk and Cheese, Dork, and Dick Wad of the Mega-Vice Squad? Next, the guys take a look at Cry Havoc #1, written by Simon Spurrier with art by Ryan Kelly (Image Comics). This is the start of what appears to be a unique take on the werewolf narrative. At least this is what Derek and Gene think might be the case. They're not entirely sure, because this first issue leaves a lot of questions unanswered, and not necessarily in a good serial-driven way. As the guys discuss, there are parts of this story that are a bit confusing but whose uncertainty will probably be addressed with the completion of the first narrative arc. The creators even saw fit to annotate this #1 issue, which raises additional questions about the story's ability to stand on its own. Still, Kelly's art is worth the price of admission, and the series' use of multiple colorists, each creating a different mood, makes this a title worth watching. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Shawn Aldridge and Scott Godlewski's The Dark and Bloody #1. This is the beginning of a new Vertigo Comics series, the first since the publisher launched its twelve next-wave titles back in the fall (and for an in-depth look at those series, check out episode 170). Derek, in particular, likes this inaugural issue, feeling that it does a good job of setting up the premise with just the right amount of story tease. By contrast, Gene isn't as enamored of the issue and feels that this isn't the kind of Vertigo comic he had once grown to love (and admittedly, Gene hasn't been keeping up with the publisher in quite a while). Much like Cry Havoc, this is also another monster tale with, as of now, an ambiguous and ill-defined terror. And, in an offbeat way, it's the perfect companion to Dorkin's Eltingville Club, a book with its own kind of monstrosities. This week on The Comics Alternative Gene and Derek focus on the funny, the poignant, and the creepy. They begin with Evan Dorkin's The Eltingville Club (Dark Horse Books), a nice hardbound edition that collects all of the Eltingville Club stories published over the past twenty years. This is Dorkin's twisted, and at times acerbic, love letter to geek and collecting culture. Bill, Josh, Pete, and Jerry make up the Eltingville Comic Book, Science-Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Role-Playing Club, and their antics are as hilarious as they are painful to read. This is because Dorkin cuts to the bone of fandom, and readers will probably recognize these scenarios and contexts from their own lives. Indeed, in a short essay toward the end of the volume, Dorkin himself admits that many of the stories are based on his fan-obsessed experiences growing up, as well as on the darker side of the culture he's witnessed as a creator. Yet as uncomfortable as these stories can get at times, they are some of the funniest comics you'll read all year. What else would expect from the creator of Milk and Cheese, Dork, and Dick Wad of the Mega-Vice Squad? Next, the guys take a look at Cry Havoc #1, written by Simon Spurrier with art by Ryan Kelly (Image Comics). This is the start of what appears to be a unique take on the werewolf narrative. At least this is what Derek and Gene think might be the case. They're not entirely sure, because this first issue leaves a lot of questions unanswered, and not necessarily in a good serial-driven way. As the guys discuss, there are parts of this story that are a bit confusing but whose uncertainty will probably be addressed with the completion of the first narrative arc. The creators even saw fit to annotate this #1 issue, which raises additional questions about the story's ability to stand on its own. Still, Kelly's art is worth the price of admission, and the series' use of multiple colorists, each creating a different mood, makes this a title worth watching. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Shawn Aldridge and Scott Godlewski's The Dark and Bloody #1. This is the beginning of a new Vertigo Comics series, the first since the publisher launched its twelve next-wave titles back in the fall (and for an in-depth look at those series, check out episode 170). Derek, in particular, likes this inaugural issue, feeling that it does a good job of setting up the premise with just the right amount of story tease. By contrast, Gene isn't as enamored of the issue and feels that this isn't the kind of Vertigo comic he had once grown to love (and admittedly, Gene hasn't been keeping up with the publisher in quite a while). Much like Cry Havoc, this is also another monster tale with, as of now, an ambiguous and ill-defined terror. And, in an offbeat way, it's the perfect companion to Dorkin's Eltingville Club, a book with its own kind of monstrosities.

]]> 4651 no Webcomics - Reviews of Femme Noir, It Will All Hurt, and FreakAngels http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-femme-noir-it-will-all-hurt-and-freakangels For the February webcomics show, Sean and Derek explore three very different titles. They begin with Christopher Mills and Joe Staton's Femme Noir, a unique twist on the crime noir genre. This is series of tales surrounding a mysterious, unnamed crime-fighting PI who dons an iconic trench coat and fedora, but whose long golden locks and fishnet hose give her away as something wholly other. The guys describe this comic as a blend of Batman, The Shadow, and The Spirit, but with a female protagonist who is anything but a victim. One of the unique contexts of this webcomic, as Derek points out, is that the stories currently being serialized online have originally appeared in print. What Mills and Staton are apparently doing is using their previously published material to re-introduce their comic to a new audience -- and through an entirely different narrative delivery system -- and the guys hope that this will eventually spawn brand new Femme Noir stories. Next, they turn their attention to Farel Dalrymple's It Will All Hurt. This is yet another intriguing title from Study Group, a publisher (online and print) visited often on The Comics Alternative. (Indeed, last year's July webcomics episode was devoted solely to Study Group titles.) Both Sean and Derek are blown away by Dalrymple's art, which should be no surprise to anyone familiar with the creator's work, but at times they are a little confused by the storyline. However, they speculate that perhaps Dalrymple's surreal, dreamlike narrative is supposed to confound, and that one of the best ways of engaging with It Will All Hurt is to just read it through without pause and let the pieces sink in as the story unfolds. After that, the Two Guys wrap us with a webcomics classic, Warren Ellis and Paul Duffield's FreakAngels. This is an important title for the medium, and Sean and Derek spend a good deal of time discussing its impact and what it meant (and still means) for webcomics. This is an opportunity for Sean to revisit the webcomic, in that he was there reading it from the very beginning back in 2008. Of course, the guys also plunge into the story itself, a fantastic post-apocalyptic narrative that bears the Warren Ellis stamp. And they specifically address Duffield's art, a truly outstanding facet of this webcomic. The guys also mention Avatar Press' links to the project and how they were taking a chance during the title's original run. All in all, this month's webcomics episode is both fun and substantive, so crank up your browsers and hold on tight! Mon, 15 Feb 2016 13:48:45 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "No shark has been jumped" For the February webcomics show, Sean and Derek explore three very different titles. They begin with Christopher Mills and Joe Staton's Femme Noir, a unique twist on the crime noir genre. This is series of tales surrounding a mysterious, unnamed crime-fighting PI who dons an iconic trench coat and fedora, but whose long golden locks and fishnet hose give her away as something wholly other. The guys describe this comic as a blend of Batman, The Shadow, and The Spirit, but with a female protagonist who is anything but a victim. One of the unique contexts of this webcomic, as Derek points out, is that the stories currently being serialized online have originally appeared in print. What Mills and Staton are apparently doing is using their previously published material to re-introduce their comic to a new audience -- and through an entirely different narrative delivery system -- and the guys hope that this will eventually spawn brand new Femme Noir stories. Next, they turn their attention to Farel Dalrymple's It Will All Hurt. This is yet another intriguing title from Study Group, a publisher (online and print) visited often on The Comics Alternative. (Indeed, last year's July webcomics episode was devoted solely to Study Group titles.) Both Sean and Derek are blown away by Dalrymple's art, which should be no surprise to anyone familiar with the creator's work, but at times they are a little confused by the storyline. However, they speculate that perhaps Dalrymple's surreal, dreamlike narrative is supposed to confound, and that one of the best ways of engaging with It Will All Hurt is to just read it through without pause and let the pieces sink in as the story unfolds. After that, the Two Guys wrap us with a webcomics classic, Warren Ellis and Paul Duffield's FreakAngels. This is an important title for the medium, and Sean and Derek spend a good deal of time discussing its impact and what it meant (and still means) for webcomics. This is an opportunity for Sean to revisit the webcomic, in that he was there reading it from the very beginning back in 2008. Of course, the guys also plunge into the story itself, a fantastic post-apocalyptic narrative that bears the Warren Ellis stamp. And they specifically address Duffield's art, a truly outstanding facet of this webcomic. The guys also mention Avatar Press' links to the project and how they were taking a chance during the title's original run. All in all, this month's webcomics episode is both fun and substantive, so crank up your browsers and hold on tight! For the February webcomics show, Sean and Derek explore three very different titles. They begin with Christopher Mills and Joe Staton's Femme Noir, a unique twist on the crime noir genre. This is series of tales surrounding a mysterious, unnamed crime-fighting PI who dons an iconic trench coat and fedora, but whose long golden locks and fishnet hose give her away as something wholly other. The guys describe this comic as a blend of Batman, The Shadow, and The Spirit, but with a female protagonist who is anything but a victim. One of the unique contexts of this webcomic, as Derek points out, is that the stories currently being serialized online have originally appeared in print. What Mills and Staton are apparently doing is using their previously published material to re-introduce their comic to a new audience -- and through an entirely different narrative delivery system -- and the guys hope that this will eventually spawn brand new Femme Noir stories. Next, they turn their attention to Farel Dalrymple's It Will All Hurt. This is yet another intriguing title from Study Group, a publisher (online and print) visited often on The Comics Alternative. (Indeed, last year's July webcomics episode was devoted solely to Study Group titles.) Both Sean and Derek are blown away by Dalrymple's art, which should be no surprise to anyone familiar with the creator's work, but at times they are a little confused by the storyline. However, they speculate that perhaps Dalrymple's surreal, dreamlike narrative is supposed to confound, and that one of the best ways of engaging with It Will All Hurt is to just read it through without pause and let the pieces sink in as the story unfolds. After that, the Two Guys wrap us with a webcomics classic, Warren Ellis and Paul Duffield's FreakAngels. This is an important title for the medium, and Sean and Derek spend a good deal of time discussing its impact and what it meant (and still means) for webcomics. This is an opportunity for Sean to revisit the webcomic, in that he was there reading it from the very beginning back in 2008. Of course, the guys also plunge into the story itself, a fantastic post-apocalyptic narrative that bears the Warren Ellis stamp. And they specifically address Duffield's art, a truly outstanding facet of this webcomic. The guys also mention Avatar Press' links to the project and how they were taking a chance during the title's original run. All in all, this month's webcomics episode is both fun and substantive, so crank up your browsers and hold on tight!

]]> 6973 no Episode 174 - Reviews of Beverly, Mirror #1, and Kennel Block Blues #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-174-reviews-of-beverly-mirror-1-and-kennel-block-blues-1 It's Wednesday, which means that the Doctoral Duo return to share their recommendations of recent releases! And this week, Gwen and Derek focus on three exciting, yet quite diverse, new titles. They begin with Nick Dranso's Beverly (Drawn & Quarterly), a series of six stories set in a Midwest suburban landscape, where individuals grapple with friendships, alienation, and the uncertainties of growing up. Gwen notes the dark poignancy of these narratives, character studies that often make the reader uncomfortable and made all the more effective through Dranso's clean lines and simple illustrative style. What struck Derek was the book's construction. This isn't a "traditional" collection of separate stories -- something like you would find, for example, in Eleanor Davis's How to Be Happy or Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying -- but a text more akin to a short-story cycle, a collection of discrete stories, each of which could stand on its own, but all interconnected in such a way that a fuller meaning is generated by their textual proximity. Derek's term for this hybrid form within comics is "graphic cycle," and a classic example of this would be Will Eisner's A Contract with God. All of the narratives in Beverly connect in some way, and over time, through a few key characters. This debut graphic novel from Dranso is this week's highlight for both Gwen and Derek. Next, they check out the first issue Emma Rios and Hwei Lim's Mirror #1 (Image Comics). This story is part of the 8House universe, and the two begin with a brief discussion of that context. Both enjoyed this first issue -- especially Lim's elaborate design and watercolor art, which is truly stunning -- but found the setup a little confusing, at times. As Derek points out, this first issue lacks the amount of exposition necessary to fully grasp what is going on, although it's assumed that many of these narrative questions will be answered in the issues to follow. While both cohosts appreciate Mirror, they feel that those prone to trade waiting might want to wait until the complete arc is collected. Finally, Gwen and Derek wrap up with a look at Ryan Ferrier and Daniel Bayliss's Kennel Block Blues #1 (BOOM! Studios), the first of a four-issue limited series. This is a wild anthropomorphic tale about a kennel as prison, and about a protagonist unable to deal with reality on the inside. Oliver is not sure why he is sent to the Jackson State Kennel, and in times of uncertainty he retreats into a happy place, a technicolor fantasy world of dancing figures and catchy tunes reminiscent of the old Merrie Melodies or Fleischer brothers cartoons. As with Mirror, the art stands out in Kennel Block Blues, with Bayliss adeptly handling the transition between the dark kennel and Oliver's song-happy fantasy world. But Ferrier's writing in this first issue is equally impressive, providing just enough setup to satisfy, yet leaving the reader with eager expectations for the next installment. Wed, 10 Feb 2016 13:34:24 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "A canine-friendly podcast" It's Wednesday, which means that the Doctoral Duo return to share their recommendations of recent releases! And this week, Gwen and Derek focus on three exciting, yet quite diverse, new titles. They begin with Nick Dranso's Beverly (Drawn & Quarterly), a series of six stories set in a Midwest suburban landscape, where individuals grapple with friendships, alienation, and the uncertainties of growing up. Gwen notes the dark poignancy of these narratives, character studies that often make the reader uncomfortable and made all the more effective through Dranso's clean lines and simple illustrative style. What struck Derek was the book's construction. This isn't a "traditional" collection of separate stories -- something like you would find, for example, in Eleanor Davis's How to Be Happy or Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying -- but a text more akin to a short-story cycle, a collection of discrete stories, each of which could stand on its own, but all interconnected in such a way that a fuller meaning is generated by their textual proximity. Derek's term for this hybrid form within comics is "graphic cycle," and a classic example of this would be Will Eisner's A Contract with God. All of the narratives in Beverly connect in some way, and over time, through a few key characters. This debut graphic novel from Dranso is this week's highlight for both Gwen and Derek. Next, they check out the first issue Emma Rios and Hwei Lim's Mirror #1 (Image Comics). This story is part of the 8House universe, and the two begin with a brief discussion of that context. Both enjoyed this first issue -- especially Lim's elaborate design and watercolor art, which is truly stunning -- but found the setup a little confusing, at times. As Derek points out, this first issue lacks the amount of exposition necessary to fully grasp what is going on, although it's assumed that many of these narrative questions will be answered in the issues to follow. While both cohosts appreciate Mirror, they feel that those prone to trade waiting might want to wait until the complete arc is collected. Finally, Gwen and Derek wrap up with a look at Ryan Ferrier and Daniel Bayliss's Kennel Block Blues #1 (BOOM! Studios), the first of a four-issue limited series. This is a wild anthropomorphic tale about a kennel as prison, and about a protagonist unable to deal with reality on the inside. Oliver is not sure why he is sent to the Jackson State Kennel, and in times of uncertainty he retreats into a happy place, a technicolor fantasy world of dancing figures and catchy tunes reminiscent of the old Merrie Melodies or Fleischer brothers cartoons. As with Mirror, the art stands out in Kennel Block Blues, with Bayliss adeptly handling the transition between the dark kennel and Oliver's song-happy fantasy world. But Ferrier's writing in this first issue is equally impressive, providing just enough setup to satisfy, yet leaving the reader with eager expectations for the next installment. It's Wednesday, which means that the Doctoral Duo return to share their recommendations of recent releases! And this week, Gwen and Derek focus on three exciting, yet quite diverse, new titles. They begin with Nick Dranso's Beverly (Drawn & Quarterly), a series of six stories set in a Midwest suburban landscape, where individuals grapple with friendships, alienation, and the uncertainties of growing up. Gwen notes the dark poignancy of these narratives, character studies that often make the reader uncomfortable and made all the more effective through Dranso's clean lines and simple illustrative style. What struck Derek was the book's construction. This isn't a "traditional" collection of separate stories -- something like you would find, for example, in Eleanor Davis's How to Be Happy or Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying -- but a text more akin to a short-story cycle, a collection of discrete stories, each of which could stand on its own, but all interconnected in such a way that a fuller meaning is generated by their textual proximity. Derek's term for this hybrid form within comics is "graphic cycle," and a classic example of this would be Will Eisner's A Contract with God. All of the narratives in Beverly connect in some way, and over time, through a few key characters. This debut graphic novel from Dranso is this week's highlight for both Gwen and Derek. Next, they check out the first issue Emma Rios and Hwei Lim's Mirror #1 (Image Comics). This story is part of the 8House universe, and the two begin with a brief discussion of that context. Both enjoyed this first issue -- especially Lim's elaborate design and watercolor art, which is truly stunning -- but found the setup a little confusing, at times. As Derek points out, this first issue lacks the amount of exposition necessary to fully grasp what is going on, although it's assumed that many of these narrative questions will be answered in the issues to follow. While both cohosts appreciate Mirror, they feel that those prone to trade waiting might want to wait until the complete arc is collected. Finally, Gwen and Derek wrap up with a look at Ryan Ferrier and Daniel Bayliss's Kennel Block Blues #1 (BOOM! Studios), the first of a four-issue limited series. This is a wild anthropomorphic tale about a kennel as prison, and about a protagonist unable to deal with reality on the inside. Oliver is not sure why he is sent to the Jackson State Kennel, and in times of uncertainty he retreats into a happy place, a technicolor fantasy world of dancing figures and catchy tunes reminiscent of the old Merrie Melodies or Fleischer brothers cartoons. As with Mirror, the art stands out in Kennel Block Blues, with Bayliss adeptly handling the transition between the dark kennel and Oliver's song-happy fantasy world. But Ferrier's writing in this first issue is equally impressive, providing just enough setup to satisfy, yet leaving the reader with eager expectations for the next installment.

]]> 4680 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Tom Manning http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-tom-manning On this interview episode, Derek talks with Tom Manning, whose most recent work, Runoff, was released late last year from One Peace Books. They discuss the genesis of the project -- how it began as a self-published serial and then eventually evolved into a massive 450-page tome -- and its ambitious scope. Tom describes it as a mashup of genres and styles where he wanted to exploit the full range of the comics medium. Runoff is a horror sci-fi mystery set in small Washington state town resembling the one that Tom grew up in, and it's equal parts dark, humorous, and head-scratchingly confounding. Manning employs an ensemble cast of eccentrics, reminiscent of Berke Breathed's Bloom County, but who reside within a Lovecraftian landscape. Indeed, the cthulhu of this narrative is an enigmatic floating obelisk or headstone-looking entity with moe type eyes. And if that's not disturbing enough, you have a vigilante group of monsters by way of the Universal lot, but whose zombie member is a polite soul who goes by the name of Mr. Pickles. Ghosts become a central part of the narrative, and these spirits exercise their right to vote. And then there's the inter-dimensional bleeding -- Edwin A. Abbott, anyone? -- that turns into an inter-dimensional feeding. If this sounds like a weird, whacked-out comic, that's because it is, a style that Tom describes as "gothic American surrealism." As Tom explains to Derek, he wanted to see where his story would go, what narrative tributaries carried him to the most interesting effects, and the result is quirky book that that could easily find its way into a Syfy series. Tue, 09 Feb 2016 12:58:36 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Dimensions On this interview episode, Derek talks with Tom Manning, whose most recent work, Runoff, was released late last year from One Peace Books. They discuss the genesis of the project -- how it began as a self-published serial and then eventually evolved into a massive 450-page tome -- and its ambitious scope. Tom describes it as a mashup of genres and styles where he wanted to exploit the full range of the comics medium. Runoff is a horror sci-fi mystery set in small Washington state town resembling the one that Tom grew up in, and it's equal parts dark, humorous, and head-scratchingly confounding. Manning employs an ensemble cast of eccentrics, reminiscent of Berke Breathed's Bloom County, but who reside within a Lovecraftian landscape. Indeed, the cthulhu of this narrative is an enigmatic floating obelisk or headstone-looking entity with moe type eyes. And if that's not disturbing enough, you have a vigilante group of monsters by way of the Universal lot, but whose zombie member is a polite soul who goes by the name of Mr. Pickles. Ghosts become a central part of the narrative, and these spirits exercise their right to vote. And then there's the inter-dimensional bleeding -- Edwin A. Abbott, anyone? -- that turns into an inter-dimensional feeding. If this sounds like a weird, whacked-out comic, that's because it is, a style that Tom describes as "gothic American surrealism." As Tom explains to Derek, he wanted to see where his story would go, what narrative tributaries carried him to the most interesting effects, and the result is quirky book that that could easily find its way into a Syfy series. On this interview episode, Derek talks with Tom Manning, whose most recent work, Runoff, was released late last year from One Peace Books. They discuss the genesis of the project -- how it began as a self-published serial and then eventually evolved into a massive 450-page tome -- and its ambitious scope. Tom describes it as a mashup of genres and styles where he wanted to exploit the full range of the comics medium. Runoff is a horror sci-fi mystery set in small Washington state town resembling the one that Tom grew up in, and it's equal parts dark, humorous, and head-scratchingly confounding. Manning employs an ensemble cast of eccentrics, reminiscent of Berke Breathed's Bloom County, but who reside within a Lovecraftian landscape. Indeed, the cthulhu of this narrative is an enigmatic floating obelisk or headstone-looking entity with moe type eyes. And if that's not disturbing enough, you have a vigilante group of monsters by way of the Universal lot, but whose zombie member is a polite soul who goes by the name of Mr. Pickles. Ghosts become a central part of the narrative, and these spirits exercise their right to vote. And then there's the inter-dimensional bleeding -- Edwin A. Abbott, anyone? -- that turns into an inter-dimensional feeding. If this sounds like a weird, whacked-out comic, that's because it is, a style that Tom describes as "gothic American surrealism." As Tom explains to Derek, he wanted to see where his story would go, what narrative tributaries carried him to the most interesting effects, and the result is quirky book that that could easily find its way into a Syfy series.

]]> 4375 no Manga: Reviews of Die Wergelder, Vol. 1 and The Strange Tale of Panorama Island http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-die-wergelder-vol-1-and-the-strange-tale-of-panorama-island Shea and Derek are back with their January episode of the manga series. But isn't this the first of week of February? Yes it is, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the guys had to postpone the recording of their January episode and had carry it over into this week. But no worries! They still bring you the same great quality manga analysis, and, in addition, this means that listeners will get a double dose of Shea and Derek's manga talk for the month of February! They begin with Hiroaki Samura's Die Wergelder, Vol. 1 (Kodansha Comics). Those familiar Blade of the Immortal will instantly recognize Samura's style and know that they're in for a dynamic narrative punctuated with what some might feel are scenes of gratuitous sexual violence. In fact, Shea addresses this issue toward the beginning of their discussion, wondering if Die Wergelder might put off some of its readers. Derek argues that these kind of scenes serve a legitimate narrative purpose, especially as it regards one of the book's protagonists, Träne, building character and setting a purposefully disturbing context. This first English-language edition collects the first two volumes of the original Japanese series, which began in 2011, and introduces what is arguably the title's three main protagonists, women with uncertain and even tragic pasts whose stories converge in a narrative of yakuza wars and corporate intrigue. Next, the guys turn to Suehiro Maruo's The Strange Tale of Panorama Island (Last Gasp). Originally published in English in 2013, this is an adaptation of Edogawa Rampo's 1920s novel, a twisted Poe-esque narrative of death, indulgences, and self-reinvention. Derek highlights what he sees as the carnivalesque nature of the story, but a more appropriate descriptive frame would be ero guro (erotic grotesque), a style of art defined by eroticism, decadence, and sexual (at times horrific) indulgence. Indeed, Maruo is known for this kind of manga, perhaps more notably displayed in Mr. Arashi's Amazing Freak Show and the stories collected in Ultra-Gash Inferno. Panorama Island is more tame and lower down the "grotesque" scale than these books, but it's nonetheless a disturbing, nightmarish journey into human desire. Fri, 05 Feb 2016 13:20:52 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Decadent Episode Shea and Derek are back with their January episode of the manga series. But isn't this the first of week of February? Yes it is, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the guys had to postpone the recording of their January episode and had carry it over into this week. But no worries! They still bring you the same great quality manga analysis, and, in addition, this means that listeners will get a double dose of Shea and Derek's manga talk for the month of February! They begin with Hiroaki Samura's Die Wergelder, Vol. 1 (Kodansha Comics). Those familiar Blade of the Immortal will instantly recognize Samura's style and know that they're in for a dynamic narrative punctuated with what some might feel are scenes of gratuitous sexual violence. In fact, Shea addresses this issue toward the beginning of their discussion, wondering if Die Wergelder might put off some of its readers. Derek argues that these kind of scenes serve a legitimate narrative purpose, especially as it regards one of the book's protagonists, Träne, building character and setting a purposefully disturbing context. This first English-language edition collects the first two volumes of the original Japanese series, which began in 2011, and introduces what is arguably the title's three main protagonists, women with uncertain and even tragic pasts whose stories converge in a narrative of yakuza wars and corporate intrigue. Next, the guys turn to Suehiro Maruo's The Strange Tale of Panorama Island (Last Gasp). Originally published in English in 2013, this is an adaptation of Edogawa Rampo's 1920s novel, a twisted Poe-esque narrative of death, indulgences, and self-reinvention. Derek highlights what he sees as the carnivalesque nature of the story, but a more appropriate descriptive frame would be ero guro (erotic grotesque), a style of art defined by eroticism, decadence, and sexual (at times horrific) indulgence. Indeed, Maruo is known for this kind of manga, perhaps more notably displayed in Mr. Arashi's Amazing Freak Show and the stories collected in Ultra-Gash Inferno. Panorama Island is more tame and lower down the "grotesque" scale than these books, but it's nonetheless a disturbing, nightmarish journey into human desire. Shea and Derek are back with their January episode of the manga series. But isn't this the first of week of February? Yes it is, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the guys had to postpone the recording of their January episode and had carry it over into this week. But no worries! They still bring you the same great quality manga analysis, and, in addition, this means that listeners will get a double dose of Shea and Derek's manga talk for the month of February!

They begin with Hiroaki Samura's Die Wergelder, Vol. 1 (Kodansha Comics). Those familiar Blade of the Immortal will instantly recognize Samura's style and know that they're in for a dynamic narrative punctuated with what some might feel are scenes of gratuitous sexual violence. In fact, Shea addresses this issue toward the beginning of their discussion, wondering if Die Wergelder might put off some of its readers. Derek argues that these kind of scenes serve a legitimate narrative purpose, especially as it regards one of the book's protagonists, Träne, building character and setting a purposefully disturbing context. This first English-language edition collects the first two volumes of the original Japanese series, which began in 2011, and introduces what is arguably the title's three main protagonists, women with uncertain and even tragic pasts whose stories converge in a narrative of yakuza wars and corporate intrigue. Next, the guys turn to Suehiro Maruo's The Strange Tale of Panorama Island (Last Gasp). Originally published in English in 2013, this is an adaptation of Edogawa Rampo's 1920s novel, a twisted Poe-esque narrative of death, indulgences, and self-reinvention. Derek highlights what he sees as the carnivalesque nature of the story, but a more appropriate descriptive frame would be ero guro (erotic grotesque), a style of art defined by eroticism, decadence, and sexual (at times horrific) indulgence. Indeed, Maruo is known for this kind of manga, perhaps more notably displayed in Mr. Arashi's Amazing Freak Show and the stories collected in Ultra-Gash Inferno. Panorama Island is more tame and lower down the "grotesque" scale than these books, but it's nonetheless a disturbing, nightmarish journey into human desire.

]]> 3874 yes Episode 173 - The February Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-173-the-february-previews-catalog It’s the beginning of the month, so that must mean that it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a visual stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And Andy W. and Derek find a lot to highlight in the February issue. Despite a few frustrations — Derek doesn’t have a hardcopy of Previews and is at a disadvantage with the solicits — they have a fun and productive conversation discussing upcoming releases from Dark Horse Comics – Dept. H #1, How to Talk to Girls at Parties, Poppy and the Lost Lagoon, and House of Penance #1 DC/Vertigo – Dark Knight: A True Batman Story, Twilight Children, Unfollow, Vol. 1 IDW Publishing – Micronauts #1, Apocrypha Now, and LOAC Essentials Presents King Features Volume 1: Krazy Kat 1934 Image Comics – Black Road #1, The Fix #1, Aloha Hawaiian Dick #1, Criminal 10th Anniversary Special Edition, and Airboy Deluxe Edition AfterShock Comics – Rough Riders #1, Jackpot #1, and Black Eyed Kids #1 Alternative Comics – Chainmail Bikini: An Anthology of Women Gamers, Hawd Tales #2, Ink Brick #2, Lou, and Secret Voice #3 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics- Big Planet Blue: An Anthology Dover Publications – Murder by Remote Control Dynamite Entertainment – Gold Key Alliance #1 and Miss Fury, Vol. 2 #1 Drawn and Quarterly – Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus and Panther Fantagraphics Books – Megg and Mogg in Amsterdam and Other Stories, Wallace Wood Presents Shattuck, 5000 Kilometers per Second, and Highbone Theater First Second – Nameless City G. P. Putnams – Original Fake Humanoids – Cape Horn and Elias the Cursed Kodansha Comics – Appleseed Alpha, Vol. 1 NBM – Guardians of the Louvre New York Review Comics – Peplum Nobrow – Hilda and the Midnight Giant Oni Press – Heartthrob #1 Pantheon Books – Odyssey of Sgt. Jack Brennan SelfMadeHero – An Olympic Dream Story of Samia Yusuf Omar and Irminia Valiant – Divinity II #1 Vertical Comics – The Gods Lie University Press of Mississippi – Ed Brubaker: Conversations In addition, Andy and Derek share listener mail and discuss the joys of film noir and crime/noir comics. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so get out your order forms and follow along! Wed, 03 Feb 2016 12:46:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Hawaiian Dick everywhere” It’s the beginning of the month, so that must mean that it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a visual stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And Andy W. and Derek find a lot to highlight in the February issue. Despite a few frustrations — Derek doesn’t have a hardcopy of Previews and is at a disadvantage with the solicits — they have a fun and productive conversation discussing upcoming releases from Dark Horse Comics – Dept. H #1, How to Talk to Girls at Parties, Poppy and the Lost Lagoon, and House of Penance #1 DC/Vertigo – Dark Knight: A True Batman Story, Twilight Children, Unfollow, Vol. 1 IDW Publishing – Micronauts #1, Apocrypha Now, and LOAC Essentials Presents King Features Volume 1: Krazy Kat 1934 Image Comics – Black Road #1, The Fix #1, Aloha Hawaiian Dick #1, Criminal 10th Anniversary Special Edition, and Airboy Deluxe Edition AfterShock Comics – Rough Riders #1, Jackpot #1, and Black Eyed Kids #1 Alternative Comics – Chainmail Bikini: An Anthology of Women Gamers, Hawd Tales #2, Ink Brick #2, Lou, and Secret Voice #3 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics- Big Planet Blue: An Anthology Dover Publications – Murder by Remote Control Dynamite Entertainment – Gold Key Alliance #1 and Miss Fury, Vol. 2 #1 Drawn and Quarterly – Mary Wept over the Feet of Jesus and Panther Fantagraphics Books – Megg and Mogg in Amsterdam and Other Stories, Wallace Wood Presents Shattuck, 5000 Kilometers per Second, and Highbone Theater First Second – Nameless City G. P. Putnams – Original Fake Humanoids – Cape Horn and Elias the Cursed Kodansha Comics – Appleseed Alpha, Vol. 1 NBM – Guardians of the Louvre New York Review Comics – Peplum Nobrow – Hilda and the Midnight Giant Oni Press – Heartthrob #1 Pantheon Books – Odyssey of Sgt. Jack Brennan SelfMadeHero – An Olympic Dream Story of Samia Yusuf Omar and Irminia Valiant – Divinity II #1 Vertical Comics – The Gods Lie University Press of Mississippi – Ed Brubaker: Conversations In addition, Andy and Derek share listener mail and discuss the joys of film noir and crime/noir comics. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so get out your order forms and follow along! It’s the beginning of the month, so that must mean that it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to take a visual stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And Andy W. and Derek find a lot to highlight in the February issue. Despite a few frustrations — Derek doesn’t have a hardcopy of Previews and is at a disadvantage with the solicits — they have a fun and productive conversation discussing upcoming releases from

In addition, Andy and Derek share listener mail and discuss the joys of film noir and crime/noir comics. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so get out your order forms and follow along!

]]> 6988 yes Episode 172 - Reviews of My Degeneration, Aliceheimer’s, Pencil Head #1, and The Cask of Amontillado http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-172-reviews-of-my-degeneration-aliceheimers-pencil-head-1-and-the-cask-of-amontillado It's time for another round of insightful reviews, and this week Gwen and Derek have just what the doctored ordered. In fact, the first two books they discuss are part of Penn State University Press' Graphic Medicine series. Peter Dunlap-Shohl's My Degeneration: A Journey through Parkinson’s is the author's account of living with Parkinson's disease. It's not exactly a memoir, although it does explore the impact that the disease has had on Dunlap-Shohl's life over the past decade. My Degeneration is more of an instructional text, or perhaps a survival guide, on how to navigate the debilitating straits of his condition. As Gwen and Derek reveal, the book is an informative, no-nonsense look at Parkinson's, and while it posses a hopeful and even upbeat tone, it is anything but a Pollyanna narrative. The second book from the Graphic Medicine series is Aliceheimer’s: Alzheimer’s through the Looking Glass, Dana Walrath's account of confronting her mother's Alzheimer's disease (and which will be released in April). The author uses Lewis Carroll's classic children's tale as a metaphor for her mother's condition, as well as her own grappling with the dilemma. Although technically not a comic, Aliceheimer's could be considered a "graphic narrative" in that Walrath juxtaposes collage-style illustrations with textual accounts of her mother's experiences. Both Graphic Medicine books are deeply personal and moving texts that can speak directly to patients, caregivers, and medical professionals. Next, Derek and Gwen take a look at the first issue of Ted McKeever's new miniseries, Pencil Head (Image Comics). What makes this title so striking and so different from his previous works (such as Miniature Jesus and Superannuated Man) is that it's about the comics industry and, according to the publisher, a semi-autobiographical account of the strange things that occur in the life of a creator. Indeed, McKeever's shark, and at times surreal, black-and-white art is the perfect vehicle to reveal the weirdness underlying the profession. Finally, Gwen and Derek wrap up the show by looking at the latest adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's classic gothic tale, Enrica Jang and Jason Strutz's The Cask of Amontillado (Action Lab Studios). Derek is an aficionado of Poe adaptations, and the two begin their discussion by highlighting both the adherences to and the deviations from the original narrative. Jang doesn't really retain the short story's complicating narrative frame -- Montresor's confessional (and ambiguous) account provided years after the event -- but this one-shot does set up her and Strutz's upcoming limited series, The House of Montresor. This will be their sequel to the classic, a look into the consequences of Montresor's calculated murder and what it means to both his and Fortunato's families. Wed, 27 Jan 2016 12:57:26 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Monsters and Diseases It's time for another round of insightful reviews, and this week Gwen and Derek have just what the doctored ordered. In fact, the first two books they discuss are part of Penn State University Press' Graphic Medicine series. Peter Dunlap-Shohl's My Degeneration: A Journey through Parkinson’s is the author's account of living with Parkinson's disease. It's not exactly a memoir, although it does explore the impact that the disease has had on Dunlap-Shohl's life over the past decade. My Degeneration is more of an instructional text, or perhaps a survival guide, on how to navigate the debilitating straits of his condition. As Gwen and Derek reveal, the book is an informative, no-nonsense look at Parkinson's, and while it posses a hopeful and even upbeat tone, it is anything but a Pollyanna narrative. The second book from the Graphic Medicine series is Aliceheimer’s: Alzheimer’s through the Looking Glass, Dana Walrath's account of confronting her mother's Alzheimer's disease (and which will be released in April). The author uses Lewis Carroll's classic children's tale as a metaphor for her mother's condition, as well as her own grappling with the dilemma. Although technically not a comic, Aliceheimer's could be considered a "graphic narrative" in that Walrath juxtaposes collage-style illustrations with textual accounts of her mother's experiences. Both Graphic Medicine books are deeply personal and moving texts that can speak directly to patients, caregivers, and medical professionals. Next, Derek and Gwen take a look at the first issue of Ted McKeever's new miniseries, Pencil Head (Image Comics). What makes this title so striking and so different from his previous works (such as Miniature Jesus and Superannuated Man) is that it's about the comics industry and, according to the publisher, a semi-autobiographical account of the strange things that occur in the life of a creator. Indeed, McKeever's shark, and at times surreal, black-and-white art is the perfect vehicle to reveal the weirdness underlying the profession. Finally, Gwen and Derek wrap up the show by looking at the latest adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's classic gothic tale, Enrica Jang and Jason Strutz's The Cask of Amontillado (Action Lab Studios). Derek is an aficionado of Poe adaptations, and the two begin their discussion by highlighting both the adherences to and the deviations from the original narrative. Jang doesn't really retain the short story's complicating narrative frame -- Montresor's confessional (and ambiguous) account provided years after the event -- but this one-shot does set up her and Strutz's upcoming limited series, The House of Montresor. This will be their sequel to the classic, a look into the consequences of Montresor's calculated murder and what it means to both his and Fortunato's families. It's time for another round of insightful reviews, and this week Gwen and Derek have just what the doctored ordered. In fact, the first two books they discuss are part of Penn State University Press' Graphic Medicine series. Peter Dunlap-Shohl's My Degeneration: A Journey through Parkinson’s is the author's account of living with Parkinson's disease. It's not exactly a memoir, although it does explore the impact that the disease has had on Dunlap-Shohl's life over the past decade. My Degeneration is more of an instructional text, or perhaps a survival guide, on how to navigate the debilitating straits of his condition. As Gwen and Derek reveal, the book is an informative, no-nonsense look at Parkinson's, and while it posses a hopeful and even upbeat tone, it is anything but a Pollyanna narrative. The second book from the Graphic Medicine series is Aliceheimer’s: Alzheimer’s through the Looking Glass, Dana Walrath's account of confronting her mother's Alzheimer's disease (and which will be released in April). The author uses Lewis Carroll's classic children's tale as a metaphor for her mother's condition, as well as her own grappling with the dilemma. Although technically not a comic, Aliceheimer's could be considered a "graphic narrative" in that Walrath juxtaposes collage-style illustrations with textual accounts of her mother's experiences. Both Graphic Medicine books are deeply personal and moving texts that can speak directly to patients, caregivers, and medical professionals. Next, Derek and Gwen take a look at the first issue of Ted McKeever's new miniseries, Pencil Head (Image Comics). What makes this title so striking and so different from his previous works (such as Miniature Jesus and Superannuated Man) is that it's about the comics industry and, according to the publisher, a semi-autobiographical account of the strange things that occur in the life of a creator. Indeed, McKeever's shark, and at times surreal, black-and-white art is the perfect vehicle to reveal the weirdness underlying the profession. Finally, Gwen and Derek wrap up the show by looking at the latest adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's classic gothic tale, Enrica Jang and Jason Strutz's The Cask of Amontillado (Action Lab Studios). Derek is an aficionado of Poe adaptations, and the two begin their discussion by highlighting both the adherences to and the deviations from the original narrative. Jang doesn't really retain the short story's complicating narrative frame -- Montresor's confessional (and ambiguous) account provided years after the event -- but this one-shot does set up her and Strutz's upcoming limited series, The House of Montresor. This will be their sequel to the classic, a look into the consequences of Montresor's calculated murder and what it means to both his and Fortunato's families.

]]> 5108 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Theo Ellsworth http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-theo-ellsworth On this episode in the interview series, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Theo Ellsworth. Back in the fall he completed his trilogy, The Understanding Monster (Secret Acres), and he talks with the cohosts about that series as well as his process of creation. Similar to the work in Theo's earlier mini-comic, Capacity, this narrative is a journey into the artist's subconscious, where the dreamlike and (at times) non-linear nature of his storytelling becomes an exercise in discovery and imaginative excavation. Gwen and Derek also talk with Theo about his highly detailed art style and marvel at its intricacies. It's difficult to think of a contemporary creator whose work is as elaborate, as meticulously textured, and as richly colored as Ellsworth's. As Derek points out, engaging with The Understanding Monster is an immersive experience, where the reader is swept into Theo's visual terrain and must navigate the storyworld according to its own rules. They also discuss his solo show (in February) at Giant Robot in Los Angeles, as well as his work on other upcoming projects, such as a children's book, a possibility that really excites Gwen. All in all, this is a fun and revealing conversation with an artist whose work, if you don't already known it, should definitely be on your radar. Tue, 26 Jan 2016 13:11:50 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Full access to my subconscious without going insane" On this episode in the interview series, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Theo Ellsworth. Back in the fall he completed his trilogy, The Understanding Monster (Secret Acres), and he talks with the cohosts about that series as well as his process of creation. Similar to the work in Theo's earlier mini-comic, Capacity, this narrative is a journey into the artist's subconscious, where the dreamlike and (at times) non-linear nature of his storytelling becomes an exercise in discovery and imaginative excavation. Gwen and Derek also talk with Theo about his highly detailed art style and marvel at its intricacies. It's difficult to think of a contemporary creator whose work is as elaborate, as meticulously textured, and as richly colored as Ellsworth's. As Derek points out, engaging with The Understanding Monster is an immersive experience, where the reader is swept into Theo's visual terrain and must navigate the storyworld according to its own rules. They also discuss his solo show (in February) at Giant Robot in Los Angeles, as well as his work on other upcoming projects, such as a children's book, a possibility that really excites Gwen. All in all, this is a fun and revealing conversation with an artist whose work, if you don't already known it, should definitely be on your radar. On this episode in the interview series, Gwen and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Theo Ellsworth. Back in the fall he completed his trilogy, The Understanding Monster (Secret Acres), and he talks with the cohosts about that series as well as his process of creation. Similar to the work in Theo's earlier mini-comic, Capacity, this narrative is a journey into the artist's subconscious, where the dreamlike and (at times) non-linear nature of his storytelling becomes an exercise in discovery and imaginative excavation. Gwen and Derek also talk with Theo about his highly detailed art style and marvel at its intricacies. It's difficult to think of a contemporary creator whose work is as elaborate, as meticulously textured, and as richly colored as Ellsworth's. As Derek points out, engaging with The Understanding Monster is an immersive experience, where the reader is swept into Theo's visual terrain and must navigate the storyworld according to its own rules. They also discuss his solo show (in February) at Giant Robot in Los Angeles, as well as his work on other upcoming projects, such as a children's book, a possibility that really excites Gwen. All in all, this is a fun and revealing conversation with an artist whose work, if you don't already known it, should definitely be on your radar.

]]> 3825 no On Location - Bringing in the New Year at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-bringing-in-the-new-year-at-collected-comics-and-games It's been six months since he last did so, but Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games, for another on-location episode. As usual, he talks with several of the shop customers and employees about the kinds of comics that they've been reading. And since it's the first month of the year, everyone used the opportunity to discuss the titles that stood out for them in 2015 as well as the comics that they're looking forward to in the coming months. For this recording Derek is joined by on-location episode regulars, Craig, Matt, and Chris, as well as store associate Stephanie and the shop's new manager, Sabrina. (Sabrina has been at Collected in Plano for a long time, but she's just recently become its manager.) So after getting reacquainted with the preliminaries, everyone jumps into a recap of the most notable comics from last year. It's no surprise that, for many, Marvel's Secret Wars and its many ancillary tales received the lion's share of commentary (along with the publisher's seemingly endless, and irritating, instances of renumbering and revoluming). But there were other outstanding 2015 titles for the crew, including Toil and Trouble, Invader Zim, Plutona, the new Archie, BKV's We Stand on Guard and Paper Girls, and the webcomic Ava's Demon. Derek then turns the discussion into a more forward-looking one, asking everyone what comics and events they are anticipating in the coming year. Many said that the new iteration of Marvel's Civil War is something that they're eagerly awaiting, but folks also mentioned Brian Wood's upcoming Black Road, Daniel Clowes's Patience, more Jem and the Holograms, Chapter House's Spirit Leaves, Beauties (whose first issue came out at the tail end of last year), and the continuation of Vertigo's new line of titles. TV and movie properties, especially the second season of Netflix's Daredevil and the new Lucifer series, also get a lot of love during the discussion. Overall, the guys at the shop covered a lot of ground, and everyone is looking forward to more of these monthly on-location episodes throughout the year! Thu, 21 Jan 2016 13:11:21 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Backwards and Forwards It's been six months since he last did so, but Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games, for another on-location episode. As usual, he talks with several of the shop customers and employees about the kinds of comics that they've been reading. And since it's the first month of the year, everyone used the opportunity to discuss the titles that stood out for them in 2015 as well as the comics that they're looking forward to in the coming months. For this recording Derek is joined by on-location episode regulars, Craig, Matt, and Chris, as well as store associate Stephanie and the shop's new manager, Sabrina. (Sabrina has been at Collected in Plano for a long time, but she's just recently become its manager.) So after getting reacquainted with the preliminaries, everyone jumps into a recap of the most notable comics from last year. It's no surprise that, for many, Marvel's Secret Wars and its many ancillary tales received the lion's share of commentary (along with the publisher's seemingly endless, and irritating, instances of renumbering and revoluming). But there were other outstanding 2015 titles for the crew, including Toil and Trouble, Invader Zim, Plutona, the new Archie, BKV's We Stand on Guard and Paper Girls, and the webcomic Ava's Demon. Derek then turns the discussion into a more forward-looking one, asking everyone what comics and events they are anticipating in the coming year. Many said that the new iteration of Marvel's Civil War is something that they're eagerly awaiting, but folks also mentioned Brian Wood's upcoming Black Road, Daniel Clowes's Patience, more Jem and the Holograms, Chapter House's Spirit Leaves, Beauties (whose first issue came out at the tail end of last year), and the continuation of Vertigo's new line of titles. TV and movie properties, especially the second season of Netflix's Daredevil and the new Lucifer series, also get a lot of love during the discussion. Overall, the guys at the shop covered a lot of ground, and everyone is looking forward to more of these monthly on-location episodes throughout the year! It's been six months since he last did so, but Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games, for another on-location episode. As usual, he talks with several of the shop customers and employees about the kinds of comics that they've been reading. And since it's the first month of the year, everyone used the opportunity to discuss the titles that stood out for them in 2015 as well as the comics that they're looking forward to in the coming months. For this recording Derek is joined by on-location episode regulars, Craig, Matt, and Chris, as well as store associate Stephanie and the shop's new manager, Sabrina. (Sabrina has been at Collected in Plano for a long time, but she's just recently become its manager.) So after getting reacquainted with the preliminaries, everyone jumps into a recap of the most notable comics from last year. It's no surprise that, for many, Marvel's Secret Wars and its many ancillary tales received the lion's share of commentary (along with the publisher's seemingly endless, and irritating, instances of renumbering and revoluming). But there were other outstanding 2015 titles for the crew, including Toil and Trouble, Invader Zim, Plutona, the new Archie, BKV's We Stand on Guard and Paper Girls, and the webcomic Ava's Demon. Derek then turns the discussion into a more forward-looking one, asking everyone what comics and events they are anticipating in the coming year. Many said that the new iteration of Marvel's Civil War is something that they're eagerly awaiting, but folks also mentioned Brian Wood's upcoming Black Road, Daniel Clowes's Patience, more Jem and the Holograms, Chapter House's Spirit Leaves, Beauties (whose first issue came out at the tail end of last year), and the continuation of Vertigo's new line of titles. TV and movie properties, especially the second season of Netflix's Daredevil and the new Lucifer series, also get a lot of love during the discussion. Overall, the guys at the shop covered a lot of ground, and everyone is looking forward to more of these monthly on-location episodes throughout the year!

]]> 4739 no Episode 171 - Reviews of The Eternaut, Nowhere Men #7, and Amazing Forest #1 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-171-reviews-of-the-eternaut-nowhere-men-7-and-amazing-forest-1 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Andy W. get back into the regular swing of things by discussing three recent titles, one book and two single issues. They begin with something that was published late last year, Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López’s The Eternaut (Fantagraphics). This is a legendary text, and not just within the realm of comics history. The Eternaut is a post-apocalyptic tale of alien invasion, originally serialized in the Argentinian weekly, Hora Cero Semanal, between 1957 and 1959. It was revised and expanded in 1969 and 1975, respectively, and it’s notable for its politically informed subtext. Many have read Oesterheld’s text allegorically in light of Argentina’s history of dictatorship, its Dirty War, and United States imperialism. Indeed, the writer was “disappeared” in 1977, making The Eternaut even more of a poignant read. Although the collected series, originally titled El Eternauta, has been translated in a variety of different languages, it wasn’t until the recent Fantagraphics publication that the book has been available in English. For both Andy and Derek, this is one of the best comics of 2015, and they wanted to start this year by discussing it in depth. Next, the guys turn to a title that had once been thought “disappeared,” Nowhere Men (Image Comics). It’s been over two years since we saw the last issue in the series — completing the first narrative arc — so the publication of issue #7, written by Eric Stephenson with art by Dave Taylor, is of particular interest. The two approach Nowhere Men #7 from different perspectives: Derek went back to reread the first six issues, so as to refresh his memory over the storyline, while Andy came to the issue “cold,” having forgotten much of what went on in the first trade. These different reading experiences drew them to the same assessment: readers would do well to go back and revisit the first arc, as this latest issue doesn’t provide any context or backstory to reorient its audience. Nonetheless, the guys conclude that it’s great to have Nowhere Men back and that it’s a series well worth the effort. They then wrap up with Erick Freitas and Ulises Farinas’s Amazing Forest #1 (IDW Publishing). This is a new anthology where each of the short stories, all written by Freitas and Farinas, features the work of a different illustrator. Julien Dufour (“Tank”), Matt Rota (“Wolf Mother”), Melody Often (“Ronnie the Robot”), and Yumi Sakugawa (“Bird Watcher”) are the artists in this inaugural issue, and with the exception of Sakugawa, who last year published Ikebana through Retrofit/Big Planet, these are creators with whom the guys are unfamiliar. But all of the stories in Amazing Forest are strong, art as well as narrative, and both Derek and Andy are expecting great things from the title. There need to be more collections like this! Wed, 20 Jan 2016 15:10:07 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Disappear and Return This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Andy W. get back into the regular swing of things by discussing three recent titles, one book and two single issues. They begin with something that was published late last year, Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López’s The Eternaut (Fantagraphics). This is a legendary text, and not just within the realm of comics history. The Eternaut is a post-apocalyptic tale of alien invasion, originally serialized in the Argentinian weekly, Hora Cero Semanal, between 1957 and 1959. It was revised and expanded in 1969 and 1975, respectively, and it’s notable for its politically informed subtext. Many have read Oesterheld’s text allegorically in light of Argentina’s history of dictatorship, its Dirty War, and United States imperialism. Indeed, the writer was “disappeared” in 1977, making The Eternaut even more of a poignant read. Although the collected series, originally titled El Eternauta, has been translated in a variety of different languages, it wasn’t until the recent Fantagraphics publication that the book has been available in English. For both Andy and Derek, this is one of the best comics of 2015, and they wanted to start this year by discussing it in depth. Next, the guys turn to a title that had once been thought “disappeared,” Nowhere Men (Image Comics). It’s been over two years since we saw the last issue in the series — completing the first narrative arc — so the publication of issue #7, written by Eric Stephenson with art by Dave Taylor, is of particular interest. The two approach Nowhere Men #7 from different perspectives: Derek went back to reread the first six issues, so as to refresh his memory over the storyline, while Andy came to the issue “cold,” having forgotten much of what went on in the first trade. These different reading experiences drew them to the same assessment: readers would do well to go back and revisit the first arc, as this latest issue doesn’t provide any context or backstory to reorient its audience. Nonetheless, the guys conclude that it’s great to have Nowhere Men back and that it’s a series well worth the effort. They then wrap up with Erick Freitas and Ulises Farinas’s Amazing Forest #1 (IDW Publishing). This is a new anthology where each of the short stories, all written by Freitas and Farinas, features the work of a different illustrator. Julien Dufour (“Tank”), Matt Rota (“Wolf Mother”), Melody Often (“Ronnie the Robot”), and Yumi Sakugawa (“Bird Watcher”) are the artists in this inaugural issue, and with the exception of Sakugawa, who last year published Ikebana through Retrofit/Big Planet, these are creators with whom the guys are unfamiliar. But all of the stories in Amazing Forest are strong, art as well as narrative, and both Derek and Andy are expecting great things from the title. There need to be more collections like this! This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Andy W. get back into the regular swing of things by discussing three recent titles, one book and two single issues. They begin with something that was published late last year, Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López’s The Eternaut (Fantagraphics). This is a legendary text, and not just within the realm of comics history. The Eternaut is a post-apocalyptic tale of alien invasion, originally serialized in the Argentinian weekly, Hora Cero Semanal, between 1957 and 1959. It was revised and expanded in 1969 and 1975, respectively, and it’s notable for its politically informed subtext. Many have read Oesterheld’s text allegorically in light of Argentina’s history of dictatorship, its Dirty War, and United States imperialism. Indeed, the writer was “disappeared” in 1977, making The Eternaut even more of a poignant read. Although the collected series, originally titled El Eternauta, has been translated in a variety of different languages, it wasn’t until the recent Fantagraphics publication that the book has been available in English. For both Andy and Derek, this is one of the best comics of 2015, and they wanted to start this year by discussing it in depth. Next, the guys turn to a title that had once been thought “disappeared,” Nowhere Men (Image Comics). It’s been over two years since we saw the last issue in the series — completing the first narrative arc — so the publication of issue #7, written by Eric Stephenson with art by Dave Taylor, is of particular interest. The two approach Nowhere Men #7 from different perspectives: Derek went back to reread the first six issues, so as to refresh his memory over the storyline, while Andy came to the issue “cold,” having forgotten much of what went on in the first trade. These different reading experiences drew them to the same assessment: readers would do well to go back and revisit the first arc, as this latest issue doesn’t provide any context or backstory to reorient its audience. Nonetheless, the guys conclude that it’s great to have Nowhere Men back and that it’s a series well worth the effort. They then wrap up with Erick Freitas and Ulises Farinas’s Amazing Forest #1 (IDW Publishing). This is a new anthology where each of the short stories, all written by Freitas and Farinas, features the work of a different illustrator. Julien Dufour (“Tank”), Matt Rota (“Wolf Mother”), Melody Often (“Ronnie the Robot”), and Yumi Sakugawa (“Bird Watcher”) are the artists in this inaugural issue, and with the exception of Sakugawa, who last year published Ikebana through Retrofit/Big Planet, these are creators with whom the guys are unfamiliar. But all of the stories in Amazing Forest are strong, art as well as narrative, and both Derek and Andy are expecting great things from the title. There need to be more collections like this!

]]> 5543 no Webcomics: Reviews of Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, Reckstar, and Weapon Brown http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-delilah-dirk-and-the-kings-shilling-reckstar-and-weapon-brown Sean and Derek start off the new year of the webcomics series with three exciting titles. They begin with Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, Tony Cliff's follow up to Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant. The latter began life as a webcomic, but then was published by First Second in 2013. Cliff is doing something similar with his second Delilah Dirk book, although this time he is serializing the narrative in webcomic form only until early March, the release date of the hardcopy (again, by First Second). And although King's Shilling may not ultimately be a complete webcomic, what is there is well worth reading and has you anticipating the release of the new book. After that, the guys turn to Reckstar, Joey Cruz and Michelle Nguyen's mashup of sci-fi and comedy with all of the trappings of a classic buddy story. In fact, Sean likens the tale to a space-based Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis team-up, with the immature Finn Wyoming playing the Lewis role in this volatile relationship. The webcomic is just into its third chapter, but there's much to appreciate in its upcoming developments. Finally, Sean and Derek take a long look at Jason Yungbluth's Weapon Brown, possibly one of the most engaging and sophisticated webcomics they've ever discussed on the podcast. This is a parodic sendup not only of Schulz's Peanuts, but of the entire history of American comic strips. The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where a nefarious organization known as the Syndicate (read United Feature Syndicate) is attempting to subdue a rebel force and their grasp on a unique food supply known as shmoo. Weapon Brown, occasionally called "Chuck," enters the fray as a cybernetic right-armed mercenary who ends up helping the rebel leaders Annie (see Little Orphan Annie), Hughie X (The Boondocks), Pops (Popeye), and Hildy (Broom-Hilda), among others. The action builds to a final showdown between Weapon Brown and an unstoppable, merciless, stuffed tiger-toting creation known as a Cyber Augmented Legionnaire version 1.N (or C.A.L. V1N for short). In fact, the entire history of newspaper strips seems to be represented in Weapon Brown, and part of the joy of reading this webcomic is discovering the many references, often subtle, embedded throughout. Derek and Sean also point out the risqué nature of the story, with its (at times) explicit sex, violence, and language. But if you're OK with a little spice in your webcomics, then Weapon Brown should become one of your reading highlights of the year. Tue, 19 Jan 2016 12:48:24 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Good Grief Sean and Derek start off the new year of the webcomics series with three exciting titles. They begin with Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, Tony Cliff's follow up to Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant. The latter began life as a webcomic, but then was published by First Second in 2013. Cliff is doing something similar with his second Delilah Dirk book, although this time he is serializing the narrative in webcomic form only until early March, the release date of the hardcopy (again, by First Second). And although King's Shilling may not ultimately be a complete webcomic, what is there is well worth reading and has you anticipating the release of the new book. After that, the guys turn to Reckstar, Joey Cruz and Michelle Nguyen's mashup of sci-fi and comedy with all of the trappings of a classic buddy story. In fact, Sean likens the tale to a space-based Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis team-up, with the immature Finn Wyoming playing the Lewis role in this volatile relationship. The webcomic is just into its third chapter, but there's much to appreciate in its upcoming developments. Finally, Sean and Derek take a long look at Jason Yungbluth's Weapon Brown, possibly one of the most engaging and sophisticated webcomics they've ever discussed on the podcast. This is a parodic sendup not only of Schulz's Peanuts, but of the entire history of American comic strips. The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where a nefarious organization known as the Syndicate (read United Feature Syndicate) is attempting to subdue a rebel force and their grasp on a unique food supply known as shmoo. Weapon Brown, occasionally called "Chuck," enters the fray as a cybernetic right-armed mercenary who ends up helping the rebel leaders Annie (see Little Orphan Annie), Hughie X (The Boondocks), Pops (Popeye), and Hildy (Broom-Hilda), among others. The action builds to a final showdown between Weapon Brown and an unstoppable, merciless, stuffed tiger-toting creation known as a Cyber Augmented Legionnaire version 1.N (or C.A.L. V1N for short). In fact, the entire history of newspaper strips seems to be represented in Weapon Brown, and part of the joy of reading this webcomic is discovering the many references, often subtle, embedded throughout. Derek and Sean also point out the risqué nature of the story, with its (at times) explicit sex, violence, and language. But if you're OK with a little spice in your webcomics, then Weapon Brown should become one of your reading highlights of the year. Sean and Derek start off the new year of the webcomics series with three exciting titles. They begin with Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling, Tony Cliff's follow up to Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant. The latter began life as a webcomic, but then was published by First Second in 2013. Cliff is doing something similar with his second Delilah Dirk book, although this time he is serializing the narrative in webcomic form only until early March, the release date of the hardcopy (again, by First Second). And although King's Shilling may not ultimately be a complete webcomic, what is there is well worth reading and has you anticipating the release of the new book. After that, the guys turn to Reckstar, Joey Cruz and Michelle Nguyen's mashup of sci-fi and comedy with all of the trappings of a classic buddy story. In fact, Sean likens the tale to a space-based Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis team-up, with the immature Finn Wyoming playing the Lewis role in this volatile relationship. The webcomic is just into its third chapter, but there's much to appreciate in its upcoming developments. Finally, Sean and Derek take a long look at Jason Yungbluth's Weapon Brown, possibly one of the most engaging and sophisticated webcomics they've ever discussed on the podcast. This is a parodic sendup not only of Schulz's Peanuts, but of the entire history of American comic strips. The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where a nefarious organization known as the Syndicate (read United Feature Syndicate) is attempting to subdue a rebel force and their grasp on a unique food supply known as shmoo. Weapon Brown, occasionally called "Chuck," enters the fray as a cybernetic right-armed mercenary who ends up helping the rebel leaders Annie (see Little Orphan Annie), Hughie X (The Boondocks), Pops (Popeye), and Hildy (Broom-Hilda), among others. The action builds to a final showdown between Weapon Brown and an unstoppable, merciless, stuffed tiger-toting creation known as a Cyber Augmented Legionnaire version 1.N (or C.A.L. V1N for short). In fact, the entire history of newspaper strips seems to be represented in Weapon Brown, and part of the joy of reading this webcomic is discovering the many references, often subtle, embedded throughout. Derek and Sean also point out the risqué nature of the story, with its (at times) explicit sex, violence, and language. But if you're OK with a little spice in your webcomics, then Weapon Brown should become one of your reading highlights of the year.

]]> 5839 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Isaac Cates and Michael Wenthe http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-isaac-cates-and-michael-wenthe On this interview episode, Derek talks with Isaac Cates and Michael Wenthe about their creator-owned series, Cartozia Tales. In what will be a ten-issue run, the series is centered on the fantastical realm of Cartozia, complete with diverse terrain, detailed histories, and a multifaceted population. As Isaac and Mike reveal in the interview, what began as an exercise in map-drawing turned into an extensive storyworld. Each issue of Cartozia Tales features multiple narrative segments by a variety of creators -- Mike and Isaac being just two -- and as the series evolves, each writer/artist contributing to a particular storyline builds upon the elements laid down by its previous creators. The result is a collection of tales told by a community of artists, giving the title a true participatory feel. And with each successive issue, the various storylines rub up against and even combine with one another, with different strands weaving into a larger and thicker thread. During their conversation Isaac and Mike share their process of creation, their experiences with Kickstarter, and how their earlier collaboration on Satisfactory Comics set the stage for what was to become a much more involved project. It's a fun conversation and a great introduction into a world that readers of all ages can enjoy. To find out more about Cartozia Tales, visit the series' official website. Mon, 18 Jan 2016 17:56:42 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Maps and Legends On this interview episode, Derek talks with Isaac Cates and Michael Wenthe about their creator-owned series, Cartozia Tales. In what will be a ten-issue run, the series is centered on the fantastical realm of Cartozia, complete with diverse terrain, detailed histories, and a multifaceted population. As Isaac and Mike reveal in the interview, what began as an exercise in map-drawing turned into an extensive storyworld. Each issue of Cartozia Tales features multiple narrative segments by a variety of creators -- Mike and Isaac being just two -- and as the series evolves, each writer/artist contributing to a particular storyline builds upon the elements laid down by its previous creators. The result is a collection of tales told by a community of artists, giving the title a true participatory feel. And with each successive issue, the various storylines rub up against and even combine with one another, with different strands weaving into a larger and thicker thread. During their conversation Isaac and Mike share their process of creation, their experiences with Kickstarter, and how their earlier collaboration on Satisfactory Comics set the stage for what was to become a much more involved project. It's a fun conversation and a great introduction into a world that readers of all ages can enjoy. To find out more about Cartozia Tales, visit the series' official website. On this interview episode, Derek talks with Isaac Cates and Michael Wenthe about their creator-owned series, Cartozia Tales. In what will be a ten-issue run, the series is centered on the fantastical realm of Cartozia, complete with diverse terrain, detailed histories, and a multifaceted population. As Isaac and Mike reveal in the interview, what began as an exercise in map-drawing turned into an extensive storyworld. Each issue of Cartozia Tales features multiple narrative segments by a variety of creators -- Mike and Isaac being just two -- and as the series evolves, each writer/artist contributing to a particular storyline builds upon the elements laid down by its previous creators. The result is a collection of tales told by a community of artists, giving the title a true participatory feel. And with each successive issue, the various storylines rub up against and even combine with one another, with different strands weaving into a larger and thicker thread. During their conversation Isaac and Mike share their process of creation, their experiences with Kickstarter, and how their earlier collaboration on Satisfactory Comics set the stage for what was to become a much more involved project. It's a fun conversation and a great introduction into a world that readers of all ages can enjoy.

To find out more about Cartozia Tales, visit the series' official website.

]]> 4568 no Episode 170 - A Publisher Spotlight on Vertigo http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-170-a-publisher-spotlight-on-vertigo For their first publisher spotlight of 2016, Andy and Derek focus on the new wave of titles from Vertigo, those being launched between October and December of last year. As you might expect, this is an extra long episode of the podcast because the guys discuss twelve new series, and some of them already with three and four issues released. These include: The Twilight Children, by Gilbert Hernandez and Darwyn Cooke Survivors' Club, by Lauren Beukes, Dale Halvorsen, and Ryan Kelly Clean Room, by Gail Simone and Jon Davis-Hunt Art Ops, by Shaun Simon and Michael Allred Unfollow, by Rob Williams and Mike Dowling Slash and Burn, by Si Spencer, Max Dunbar, and Ande Parks Red Thorn, by David Baillie and Meghan Hetrick Jacked, by Eric Kripke and John Higgins Sheriff of Babylon, by Tom King and Mitch Gerads New Romancer, by Peter Milligan and Brett Parson Last Gang in Town, by Simon Oliver and Rufus Dayglo Lucifer, by Holly Black and Lee Garbett Both Derek and Andy enjoy almost all of these titles, but there are a few that really stand out for them -- and they spend a disproportionate time discussing -- including The Twilight Children, Unfollow, Jacked, and Sheriff of Babylon. They also use their analysis of Lucifer to segue into a brief coverage of The Sandman: Overture, Deluxe Edition. The first of that six-issues miniseries was part of the guys' earlier Vertigo spotlight back in November 2013, and a central component of that publisher's previous wave of new titles, but the collected edition was just released late last year. Although it had an unusually long incubation period, The Sandman: Overture does help Andy and Derek juxtapose Vertigo's two big release efforts, leading them into a discussion of possible new directions the publisher may be going. Wed, 13 Jan 2016 14:37:18 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Full o' Vertigo For their first publisher spotlight of 2016, Andy and Derek focus on the new wave of titles from Vertigo, those being launched between October and December of last year. As you might expect, this is an extra long episode of the podcast because the guys discuss twelve new series, and some of them already with three and four issues released. These include: The Twilight Children, by Gilbert Hernandez and Darwyn Cooke Survivors' Club, by Lauren Beukes, Dale Halvorsen, and Ryan Kelly Clean Room, by Gail Simone and Jon Davis-Hunt Art Ops, by Shaun Simon and Michael Allred Unfollow, by Rob Williams and Mike Dowling Slash and Burn, by Si Spencer, Max Dunbar, and Ande Parks Red Thorn, by David Baillie and Meghan Hetrick Jacked, by Eric Kripke and John Higgins Sheriff of Babylon, by Tom King and Mitch Gerads New Romancer, by Peter Milligan and Brett Parson Last Gang in Town, by Simon Oliver and Rufus Dayglo Lucifer, by Holly Black and Lee Garbett Both Derek and Andy enjoy almost all of these titles, but there are a few that really stand out for them -- and they spend a disproportionate time discussing -- including The Twilight Children, Unfollow, Jacked, and Sheriff of Babylon. They also use their analysis of Lucifer to segue into a brief coverage of The Sandman: Overture, Deluxe Edition. The first of that six-issues miniseries was part of the guys' earlier Vertigo spotlight back in November 2013, and a central component of that publisher's previous wave of new titles, but the collected edition was just released late last year. Although it had an unusually long incubation period, The Sandman: Overture does help Andy and Derek juxtapose Vertigo's two big release efforts, leading them into a discussion of possible new directions the publisher may be going. For their first publisher spotlight of 2016, Andy and Derek focus on the new wave of titles from Vertigo, those being launched between October and December of last year. As you might expect, this is an extra long episode of the podcast because the guys discuss twelve new series, and some of them already with three and four issues released. These include:

Both Derek and Andy enjoy almost all of these titles, but there are a few that really stand out for them -- and they spend a disproportionate time discussing -- including The Twilight Children, Unfollow, Jacked, and Sheriff of Babylon. They also use their analysis of Lucifer to segue into a brief coverage of The Sandman: Overture, Deluxe Edition. The first of that six-issues miniseries was part of the guys' earlier Vertigo spotlight back in November 2013, and a central component of that publisher's previous wave of new titles, but the collected edition was just released late last year. Although it had an unusually long incubation period, The Sandman: Overture does help Andy and Derek juxtapose Vertigo's two big release efforts, leading them into a discussion of possible new directions the publisher may be going.

]]> 8159 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Tom Hart http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-tom-hart Gene and Derek start off the week presenting a powerful interview with Tom Hart. His new book, Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir, is being released this week from St. Martin's Press, and it's an honest and heartrending work. It chronicles the days following the unexpected death of Tom's daughter, Rosalie, as he and his wife anguished over the loss and tried to make sense of what had happened. In addition to their grief and feelings of emptiness, they also had to continue struggling with the frustrations of the mundane, such as trying to sell their apartment in New York. It's a story about putting the pieces of your life back together, reflected in large part through the structure of Tom's narrative. Gene notes the images that bind the scenes together, such as the visual prominence of circles, and Derek believes the Rosalie Lightning reads much like poetry with its associative, non-linear linking of emotions and memories. The guys also use the opportunity to talk with Tom about his other work, such as his Hutch Owen comics and his educational efforts. In fact, they talk a good deal about the Sequential Artists Workshop that Tom founded in 2012 in Gainesville, Florida, as well as the online course he offers on graphic memoir writing...an endeavor that largely grew out of his own experiences documenting his loss. As the guys point out in this episode, Rosalie Lightning an important new book from Tom, one that is sure to resonate beyond the comics and graphic novels community of readers. Mon, 11 Jan 2016 14:35:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Circles Gene and Derek start off the week presenting a powerful interview with Tom Hart. His new book, Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir, is being released this week from St. Martin's Press, and it's an honest and heartrending work. It chronicles the days following the unexpected death of Tom's daughter, Rosalie, as he and his wife anguished over the loss and tried to make sense of what had happened. In addition to their grief and feelings of emptiness, they also had to continue struggling with the frustrations of the mundane, such as trying to sell their apartment in New York. It's a story about putting the pieces of your life back together, reflected in large part through the structure of Tom's narrative. Gene notes the images that bind the scenes together, such as the visual prominence of circles, and Derek believes the Rosalie Lightning reads much like poetry with its associative, non-linear linking of emotions and memories. The guys also use the opportunity to talk with Tom about his other work, such as his Hutch Owen comics and his educational efforts. In fact, they talk a good deal about the Sequential Artists Workshop that Tom founded in 2012 in Gainesville, Florida, as well as the online course he offers on graphic memoir writing...an endeavor that largely grew out of his own experiences documenting his loss. As the guys point out in this episode, Rosalie Lightning an important new book from Tom, one that is sure to resonate beyond the comics and graphic novels community of readers. Gene and Derek start off the week presenting a powerful interview with Tom Hart. His new book, Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir, is being released this week from St. Martin's Press, and it's an honest and heartrending work. It chronicles the days following the unexpected death of Tom's daughter, Rosalie, as he and his wife anguished over the loss and tried to make sense of what had happened. In addition to their grief and feelings of emptiness, they also had to continue struggling with the frustrations of the mundane, such as trying to sell their apartment in New York. It's a story about putting the pieces of your life back together, reflected in large part through the structure of Tom's narrative. Gene notes the images that bind the scenes together, such as the visual prominence of circles, and Derek believes the Rosalie Lightning reads much like poetry with its associative, non-linear linking of emotions and memories. The guys also use the opportunity to talk with Tom about his other work, such as his Hutch Owen comics and his educational efforts. In fact, they talk a good deal about the Sequential Artists Workshop that Tom founded in 2012 in Gainesville, Florida, as well as the online course he offers on graphic memoir writing...an endeavor that largely grew out of his own experiences documenting his loss. As the guys point out in this episode, Rosalie Lightning an important new book from Tom, one that is sure to resonate beyond the comics and graphic novels community of readers.

]]> 4964 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Dara Naraghi and Brent Bowman http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-dara-naraghi-and-brent-bowman On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has the pleasure of talking with Dara Naraghi and Brent Bowman, the creators behind Persia Blues (NBM/ComicsLit). The second volume of the projected trilogy, subtitled Love and War, was just released last month, and Derek talks with the two about their efforts in getting it to print. They discuss the genesis of the story and its complex narrative structure. Persia Blues is composed of two different storylines, one a realistic thread taking place in contemporary Iran and the U.S., and the other a fantastical, mythologically infused tale set in ancient Persia. What links the two stories is the protagonist, Minoo Shirazi, a young Iranian architectural student and an adventurer (depending on the storyline) coming to terms with her family and her culture. Dara and Brent discuss the challenges in balancing the two narrative threads and the process they use when creating the comic. The two originally met through the comics collective, PANEL, based out of Columbus, OH -- in fact, much of the story in the second volume of Persia Blues takes place at OSU -- and, as they discuss with Derek, their close proximity contributes to the book's development. Along the way, Brent and Dara share their thoughts on writing from woman's perspective, contemporary representations of Middle-Eastern figures, and the kind of reception Persia Blues has received within the Iranian American community. This is an informative and fun conversation that should whet your appetite for the final book in the series. For more information on Persia Blues and its creators, check out the series' website! Fri, 08 Jan 2016 14:34:25 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Woman Warrior On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has the pleasure of talking with Dara Naraghi and Brent Bowman, the creators behind Persia Blues (NBM/ComicsLit). The second volume of the projected trilogy, subtitled Love and War, was just released last month, and Derek talks with the two about their efforts in getting it to print. They discuss the genesis of the story and its complex narrative structure. Persia Blues is composed of two different storylines, one a realistic thread taking place in contemporary Iran and the U.S., and the other a fantastical, mythologically infused tale set in ancient Persia. What links the two stories is the protagonist, Minoo Shirazi, a young Iranian architectural student and an adventurer (depending on the storyline) coming to terms with her family and her culture. Dara and Brent discuss the challenges in balancing the two narrative threads and the process they use when creating the comic. The two originally met through the comics collective, PANEL, based out of Columbus, OH -- in fact, much of the story in the second volume of Persia Blues takes place at OSU -- and, as they discuss with Derek, their close proximity contributes to the book's development. Along the way, Brent and Dara share their thoughts on writing from woman's perspective, contemporary representations of Middle-Eastern figures, and the kind of reception Persia Blues has received within the Iranian American community. This is an informative and fun conversation that should whet your appetite for the final book in the series. For more information on Persia Blues and its creators, check out the series' website! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has the pleasure of talking with Dara Naraghi and Brent Bowman, the creators behind Persia Blues (NBM/ComicsLit). The second volume of the projected trilogy, subtitled Love and War, was just released last month, and Derek talks with the two about their efforts in getting it to print. They discuss the genesis of the story and its complex narrative structure. Persia Blues is composed of two different storylines, one a realistic thread taking place in contemporary Iran and the U.S., and the other a fantastical, mythologically infused tale set in ancient Persia. What links the two stories is the protagonist, Minoo Shirazi, a young Iranian architectural student and an adventurer (depending on the storyline) coming to terms with her family and her culture. Dara and Brent discuss the challenges in balancing the two narrative threads and the process they use when creating the comic. The two originally met through the comics collective, PANEL, based out of Columbus, OH -- in fact, much of the story in the second volume of Persia Blues takes place at OSU -- and, as they discuss with Derek, their close proximity contributes to the book's development. Along the way, Brent and Dara share their thoughts on writing from woman's perspective, contemporary representations of Middle-Eastern figures, and the kind of reception Persia Blues has received within the Iranian American community. This is an informative and fun conversation that should whet your appetite for the final book in the series.

For more information on Persia Blues and its creators, check out the series' website!

]]> 4440 no Episode 169 - The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-169-the-january-previews-catalog Welcome to January! As the guys do at the beginning of every month, they use this time to discuss the solicits in the latest Previews catalog. And there's a lot packed into the January issue, starting with a rundown of the 50 titles that will be featured this coming Free Comic Book Day. Gene and Derek are particularly looking forward to the FCBD comics coming out from Fantagraphics, Archie Comics, First Second Books, Image Comics, Drawn & Quarterly, Top Shelf, VIZ Media, and Nobrow. After that brief detour, they get into the catalog proper, highlight upcoming releases from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Death Follows, The Massive: Library Edition, Vol. 1, Bird Boy, Vol. 1: The Sword of Mali Mani, and Trump: The Complete Collection DC/Vertigo - Kingdom Come: 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition and Suiciders: Kings of HelL.A. #1, IDW Publishing - Star Trek: The Classic UK Comics, Vol. 1, Johnny Boo, Book 7, and Paracuellos Image Comics - Circuit Breaker #1, The Discipline #1, and The Rattler Abrams ComicArts - The Imitation Game: Alan Turing Decoded and Woody Guthrie and the Dust Bowl Ballads Alternative Comics - Compulsive Comics, Bartkira, Ohio Is for Sale, and Power Button #0 American Gothic Press - Lost in Space #1 Amulet Books - Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales, Vol. 6: Alamo All-Stars Bliss on Tap - Future Proof #10 BOOM! Studios - Turncoat #1 and The Baker Street Peculiars #1 Canton Street Press - Eerie Comics #1: Replica Edition Devil's Due/First Comics - Delete #1 Digital Manga - Captain Ken, Vol. 3 Dynamite Entertainment - Vampirella (Vol. 3) #1 Drawn and Quarterly - The Birth of Kitaro and Carpet Sweeper Tales Fantagraphics Books - Patience and Outer Limits: The Steve Ditko Archives, Vol. 6 First Second - Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling and The Glorkian Warrior, Vol. 3: The Mustache of Destiny NBM - Thoreau: A Sublime Life One Peace Books - Belushi: On a Mission from God Overground Comics - Oh, Hell #1 Pantheon Books - The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye (Regular Edition) SelfMadeHero - H.P. Lovecraft's The Shadow over Innsmouth Simon & Schuster - The Ukrainian and Russian Notebooks: Life and Death under Soviet Rule Titan Comics - Loan Sloane: Delirius 2 Viz Media - Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 and One-Punch Man, Vol. 5 Youneek Studios - E.X.O.: The Legend of Wale Williams, Vol. 1 Time Out - Time Out Shortlist: Gotham and Metropolis Guidebook All in all, Gene and Derek have a fun time thumbing through the January Previews catalog, making their checklists for comics they want to read, titles they'd like to discuss on the podcast, and creators they want to interview in the coming year. Wed, 06 Jan 2016 14:38:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "I'm all about the old-timey" Welcome to January! As the guys do at the beginning of every month, they use this time to discuss the solicits in the latest Previews catalog. And there's a lot packed into the January issue, starting with a rundown of the 50 titles that will be featured this coming Free Comic Book Day. Gene and Derek are particularly looking forward to the FCBD comics coming out from Fantagraphics, Archie Comics, First Second Books, Image Comics, Drawn & Quarterly, Top Shelf, VIZ Media, and Nobrow. After that brief detour, they get into the catalog proper, highlight upcoming releases from publishers such as Dark Horse Comics - Death Follows, The Massive: Library Edition, Vol. 1, Bird Boy, Vol. 1: The Sword of Mali Mani, and Trump: The Complete Collection DC/Vertigo - Kingdom Come: 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition and Suiciders: Kings of HelL.A. #1, IDW Publishing - Star Trek: The Classic UK Comics, Vol. 1, Johnny Boo, Book 7, and Paracuellos Image Comics - Circuit Breaker #1, The Discipline #1, and The Rattler Abrams ComicArts - The Imitation Game: Alan Turing Decoded and Woody Guthrie and the Dust Bowl Ballads Alternative Comics - Compulsive Comics, Bartkira, Ohio Is for Sale, and Power Button #0 American Gothic Press - Lost in Space #1 Amulet Books - Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales, Vol. 6: Alamo All-Stars Bliss on Tap - Future Proof #10 BOOM! Studios - Turncoat #1 and The Baker Street Peculiars #1 Canton Street Press - Eerie Comics #1: Replica Edition Devil's Due/First Comics - Delete #1 Digital Manga - Captain Ken, Vol. 3 Dynamite Entertainment - Vampirella (Vol. 3) #1 Drawn and Quarterly - The Birth of Kitaro and Carpet Sweeper Tales Fantagraphics Books - Patience and Outer Limits: The Steve Ditko Archives, Vol. 6 First Second - Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling and The Glorkian Warrior, Vol. 3: The Mustache of Destiny NBM - Thoreau: A Sublime Life One Peace Books - Belushi: On a Mission from God Overground Comics - Oh, Hell #1 Pantheon Books - The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye (Regular Edition) SelfMadeHero - H.P. Lovecraft's The Shadow over Innsmouth Simon & Schuster - The Ukrainian and Russian Notebooks: Life and Death under Soviet Rule Titan Comics - Loan Sloane: Delirius 2 Viz Media - Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 and One-Punch Man, Vol. 5 Youneek Studios - E.X.O.: The Legend of Wale Williams, Vol. 1 Time Out - Time Out Shortlist: Gotham and Metropolis Guidebook All in all, Gene and Derek have a fun time thumbing through the January Previews catalog, making their checklists for comics they want to read, titles they'd like to discuss on the podcast, and creators they want to interview in the coming year. Welcome to January! As the guys do at the beginning of every month, they use this time to discuss the solicits in the latest Previews catalog. And there's a lot packed into the January issue, starting with a rundown of the 50 titles that will be featured this coming Free Comic Book Day. Gene and Derek are particularly looking forward to the FCBD comics coming out from Fantagraphics, Archie Comics, First Second Books, Image Comics, Drawn & Quarterly, Top Shelf, VIZ Media, and Nobrow. After that brief detour, they get into the catalog proper, highlight upcoming releases from publishers such as

All in all, Gene and Derek have a fun time thumbing through the January Previews catalog, making their checklists for comics they want to read, titles they'd like to discuss on the podcast, and creators they want to interview in the coming year.

]]> 6558 no Comics Alternative Interviews - Once Again, It's Time for Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-once-again-its-time-for-craig-yoe It's a brand new year, and for their very first podcast episode of 2016, the guys have as their guest the great Craig Yoe! This may become a tradition on The Comics Alternative, having Craig start off the new year, much as they did in 2015. In fact, this is the fifth interview appearance that Craig has made on the podcast (not counting the brief segment recorded at HeroesCon last year). Usually when the Yoemesiter comes on the show, he has one or two new books to discuss. But this time around there are a whopping six titles recently released from Yoe Books and IDW Publishing! It's all that Gene and Derek can do to keep up with everything that Craig and his production editor/wife, Clizia Gussoni, are putting out. They begin with a discussion of the five year anniversary of Yoe Books, which Craig actually celebrated last year. When he appeared on the show back in January of 2015, Craig discussed the coming year and what he had in store for the anniversary celebration. So Derek and Gene talk with him about the success of the first five years and about plans for the next five. Then they jump into a discussion of the many Yoe Book releases we've experienced over the past couple of months, beginning with Walt Kelly's Fairy Tales. This is a beautiful book, going above and beyond the usual standards we've come to expect from Yoe and IDW, and the guys begin by asking their guest about the production work that went into this volume. Craig also shares his love of Walt Kelly and his experiences collecting the material which originally appeared in Dell's Fairy Tale Parade between 1942 and 1946. Next, the guys ask Craig about his latest additions in his Chilling Archives of Horror Comics series, Ghosts and Girls of Fiction House (curated and introduced by Michael H. Price) and The Complete Voodoo, Vol. 1 (which includes an introduction by Mike Howlett, who has previously appeared on the podcast). They discuss the sheer weirdness that was Voodoo, a pre-code horror title from Farrell Publications, and the fetishism apparent in the Fiction House volume. Craig points out that Jumbo Comics, part of the Fiction House line, was known for its buxom women in compromised positions, and that the selections from its "Ghost Gallery" sections (collected in the Fiction House book) provide plentiful examples of "headlight comics." Gene and Derek also talk with Craig about the latest collected editions of his ongoing series, Haunted Horror, Vol. 3: Pre-code Comics So Good, They're Scary and Weird Love, Vol. 2: That's the Way I Like It!, as well as his upcoming three-issue miniseries, Haunted Love. It just gets weirder and weirder with Craig Yoe...and that's why the guys keep inviting him back on the podcast! Be sure to check out The Yoe Tube on YouTube for fun videos and music...the latter of which is included in this episode! Mon, 04 Jan 2016 17:26:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Happy New Yoe! It's a brand new year, and for their very first podcast episode of 2016, the guys have as their guest the great Craig Yoe! This may become a tradition on The Comics Alternative, having Craig start off the new year, much as they did in 2015. In fact, this is the fifth interview appearance that Craig has made on the podcast (not counting the brief segment recorded at HeroesCon last year). Usually when the Yoemesiter comes on the show, he has one or two new books to discuss. But this time around there are a whopping six titles recently released from Yoe Books and IDW Publishing! It's all that Gene and Derek can do to keep up with everything that Craig and his production editor/wife, Clizia Gussoni, are putting out. They begin with a discussion of the five year anniversary of Yoe Books, which Craig actually celebrated last year. When he appeared on the show back in January of 2015, Craig discussed the coming year and what he had in store for the anniversary celebration. So Derek and Gene talk with him about the success of the first five years and about plans for the next five. Then they jump into a discussion of the many Yoe Book releases we've experienced over the past couple of months, beginning with Walt Kelly's Fairy Tales. This is a beautiful book, going above and beyond the usual standards we've come to expect from Yoe and IDW, and the guys begin by asking their guest about the production work that went into this volume. Craig also shares his love of Walt Kelly and his experiences collecting the material which originally appeared in Dell's Fairy Tale Parade between 1942 and 1946. Next, the guys ask Craig about his latest additions in his Chilling Archives of Horror Comics series, Ghosts and Girls of Fiction House (curated and introduced by Michael H. Price) and The Complete Voodoo, Vol. 1 (which includes an introduction by Mike Howlett, who has previously appeared on the podcast). They discuss the sheer weirdness that was Voodoo, a pre-code horror title from Farrell Publications, and the fetishism apparent in the Fiction House volume. Craig points out that Jumbo Comics, part of the Fiction House line, was known for its buxom women in compromised positions, and that the selections from its "Ghost Gallery" sections (collected in the Fiction House book) provide plentiful examples of "headlight comics." Gene and Derek also talk with Craig about the latest collected editions of his ongoing series, Haunted Horror, Vol. 3: Pre-code Comics So Good, They're Scary and Weird Love, Vol. 2: That's the Way I Like It!, as well as his upcoming three-issue miniseries, Haunted Love. It just gets weirder and weirder with Craig Yoe...and that's why the guys keep inviting him back on the podcast! Be sure to check out The Yoe Tube on YouTube for fun videos and music...the latter of which is included in this episode! It's a brand new year, and for their very first podcast episode of 2016, the guys have as their guest the great Craig Yoe! This may become a tradition on The Comics Alternative, having Craig start off the new year, much as they did in 2015. In fact, this is the fifth interview appearance that Craig has made on the podcast (not counting the brief segment recorded at HeroesCon last year). Usually when the Yoemesiter comes on the show, he has one or two new books to discuss. But this time around there are a whopping six titles recently released from Yoe Books and IDW Publishing! It's all that Gene and Derek can do to keep up with everything that Craig and his production editor/wife, Clizia Gussoni, are putting out.

They begin with a discussion of the five year anniversary of Yoe Books, which Craig actually celebrated last year. When he appeared on the show back in January of 2015, Craig discussed the coming year and what he had in store for the anniversary celebration. So Derek and Gene talk with him about the success of the first five years and about plans for the next five. Then they jump into a discussion of the many Yoe Book releases we've experienced over the past couple of months, beginning with Walt Kelly's Fairy Tales. This is a beautiful book, going above and beyond the usual standards we've come to expect from Yoe and IDW, and the guys begin by asking their guest about the production work that went into this volume. Craig also shares his love of Walt Kelly and his experiences collecting the material which originally appeared in Dell's Fairy Tale Parade between 1942 and 1946. Next, the guys ask Craig about his latest additions in his Chilling Archives of Horror Comics series, Ghosts and Girls of Fiction House (curated and introduced by Michael H. Price) and The Complete Voodoo, Vol. 1 (which includes an introduction by Mike Howlett, who has previously appeared on the podcast). They discuss the sheer weirdness that was Voodoo, a pre-code horror title from Farrell Publications, and the fetishism apparent in the Fiction House volume. Craig points out that Jumbo Comics, part of the Fiction House line, was known for its buxom women in compromised positions, and that the selections from its "Ghost Gallery" sections (collected in the Fiction House book) provide plentiful examples of "headlight comics." Gene and Derek also talk with Craig about the latest collected editions of his ongoing series, Haunted Horror, Vol. 3: Pre-code Comics So Good, They're Scary and Weird Love, Vol. 2: That's the Way I Like It!, as well as his upcoming three-issue miniseries, Haunted Love. It just gets weirder and weirder with Craig Yoe...and that's why the guys keep inviting him back on the podcast!

Be sure to check out The Yoe Tube on YouTube for fun videos and music...the latter of which is included in this episode!

]]> 6133 yes Manga - Reviews of Planetes Omnibus, Vol. 1 and Ding Dong Circus http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-planetes-omnibus-vol-1-and-ding-dong-circus For their December manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different works. They start off with Makoto Yukimura's Planetes Ominbus, Vol. 1, just released from Dark Horse Books. This is the first of two large editions of the Japanese series that originally ran from 1999 to 2004. It's the story of a space debris removal crew -- orbital garbage collectors -- whose job is to clear out all of the man-made trash floating around the earth so as to make space travel safer. Taking place in the 2070s, this is a futuristic narrative that feels closely connected to our own world. The guys describe it as a kind of hard science fiction (with its emphasis on technical detail and scientific accuracy), but one that is heavily character-driven. Derek highlights both the drama and the comedy that take place among the crew members -- especially with Hachimaki, who is arguably the central figure in this first volume -- and Shea points out that while anchored in the science, Planetes is more of an "everyday" series that is focused on the mundane facets of space exploration. Next, the guys turn to a completely different kind of manga, one that challenges our ways of reading comics. Ding Dong Circus and Other Stories, 1967 to 1974 (Breakdown Press) collects fifteen of Sasaki Maki's short works, all but one originally published in the legendary manga magazine, Garo, between 1967 and 1971. The majority of these pieces are not what you would call "stories" in the strictest sense, in that there is no temporal or causal connection between panels suggesting sequence. Even the comics that do betray narrative elements, such as "The Town Horse" or "The Ballad of Henri and Anne," are constructed in fragmented ways that suggest an unsteady dreamscape more than anything. The best way to read Maki's work, as Shea and Derek point out, is by understanding it as visual poetry -- with an emphasis on image and association -- or as "musical" compositions reliant on graphical leitmotifs. If you approach Ding Dong Circus in this way, then you can better enjoy Sasaki Maki's pop art-like, collage form of manga that embodies much of the tone and significations of the 1960s. For more on this book, check out Shea's recent review on the A.V. Club. Thu, 31 Dec 2015 14:22:45 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Explorations For their December manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different works. They start off with Makoto Yukimura's Planetes Ominbus, Vol. 1, just released from Dark Horse Books. This is the first of two large editions of the Japanese series that originally ran from 1999 to 2004. It's the story of a space debris removal crew -- orbital garbage collectors -- whose job is to clear out all of the man-made trash floating around the earth so as to make space travel safer. Taking place in the 2070s, this is a futuristic narrative that feels closely connected to our own world. The guys describe it as a kind of hard science fiction (with its emphasis on technical detail and scientific accuracy), but one that is heavily character-driven. Derek highlights both the drama and the comedy that take place among the crew members -- especially with Hachimaki, who is arguably the central figure in this first volume -- and Shea points out that while anchored in the science, Planetes is more of an "everyday" series that is focused on the mundane facets of space exploration. Next, the guys turn to a completely different kind of manga, one that challenges our ways of reading comics. Ding Dong Circus and Other Stories, 1967 to 1974 (Breakdown Press) collects fifteen of Sasaki Maki's short works, all but one originally published in the legendary manga magazine, Garo, between 1967 and 1971. The majority of these pieces are not what you would call "stories" in the strictest sense, in that there is no temporal or causal connection between panels suggesting sequence. Even the comics that do betray narrative elements, such as "The Town Horse" or "The Ballad of Henri and Anne," are constructed in fragmented ways that suggest an unsteady dreamscape more than anything. The best way to read Maki's work, as Shea and Derek point out, is by understanding it as visual poetry -- with an emphasis on image and association -- or as "musical" compositions reliant on graphical leitmotifs. If you approach Ding Dong Circus in this way, then you can better enjoy Sasaki Maki's pop art-like, collage form of manga that embodies much of the tone and significations of the 1960s. For more on this book, check out Shea's recent review on the A.V. Club. For their December manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different works. They start off with Makoto Yukimura's Planetes Ominbus, Vol. 1, just released from Dark Horse Books. This is the first of two large editions of the Japanese series that originally ran from 1999 to 2004. It's the story of a space debris removal crew -- orbital garbage collectors -- whose job is to clear out all of the man-made trash floating around the earth so as to make space travel safer. Taking place in the 2070s, this is a futuristic narrative that feels closely connected to our own world. The guys describe it as a kind of hard science fiction (with its emphasis on technical detail and scientific accuracy), but one that is heavily character-driven. Derek highlights both the drama and the comedy that take place among the crew members -- especially with Hachimaki, who is arguably the central figure in this first volume -- and Shea points out that while anchored in the science, Planetes is more of an "everyday" series that is focused on the mundane facets of space exploration. Next, the guys turn to a completely different kind of manga, one that challenges our ways of reading comics. Ding Dong Circus and Other Stories, 1967 to 1974 (Breakdown Press) collects fifteen of Sasaki Maki's short works, all but one originally published in the legendary manga magazine, Garo, between 1967 and 1971. The majority of these pieces are not what you would call "stories" in the strictest sense, in that there is no temporal or causal connection between panels suggesting sequence. Even the comics that do betray narrative elements, such as "The Town Horse" or "The Ballad of Henri and Anne," are constructed in fragmented ways that suggest an unsteady dreamscape more than anything. The best way to read Maki's work, as Shea and Derek point out, is by understanding it as visual poetry -- with an emphasis on image and association -- or as "musical" compositions reliant on graphical leitmotifs. If you approach Ding Dong Circus in this way, then you can better enjoy Sasaki Maki's pop art-like, collage form of manga that embodies much of the tone and significations of the 1960s. For more on this book, check out Shea's recent review on the A.V. Club.

]]> 5754 no Episode 167 - A Review of The Best American Comics 2015 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-167-a-review-of-the-best-american-comics-2015 As has become an annual event, Andy and Derek use their penultimate show of the year to discuss the current volume of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's The Best American Comics. The series is overseen by Bill Kartalopoulos -- whom the guys interviewed on the show last year -- and this year's collection is edited by novelist Jonathan Lethem. The entries collected in The Best American Comics 2015 represent what both Lethem and Kartalopoulos consider to be the most outstanding comics published between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014. The guys begin by highlighting the organization of this year's volume, pointing out that Lethem has retained the topic- or theme-based approach used by Scott McCloud in last year's collection. The editor breaks down his entries into ten different chapter topics, ranging from the self-evident "Storytellers" and "Biopics and Historical Fictions" to more obscurely intriguing groupings such as "Brainworms" and "Raging Her-Moans." The guys are familiar with most of the contributions included this year -- to paraphrase Andy, The Best American Comics volumes just seem to reinforce their tastes in comics-- and many of them have been the subject of previous Comics Alternative reviews and interviews. They comment on the sheer number of entries that are excerpts from longer works, including Roz Chast's Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant?, Jules Feiffer's Kill My Mother, Farel Dalrymple's The Wrenchies, Gabrielle Bell's The Colombia Diaries, Sept 14-16, Cole Closser's Little Tommy Lost, Matthew Thurber Infomaniacs, Anya Ulinich's Lena Finkle's Magic Barrel, Jim Woodring's Fran, Anya Davidson's School Spirits, and Josh Bayer's Theth. Most of these selections easily stand on their own, but some could have benefited from more content or additional editorial context (examples being the excerpts from Anders Nilsen’s Rage of Poseidon and Joe Sacco’s The Great War.) Some of the highlights in this year's volume include works by creators that either Derek or Andy have never read before, such as Mat Brinkman and his darkly surreal Cretin Keep on Creep’n Creek, or Gina Wynbrandt and her hilariously self-deprecating Someone Please Have Sex with Me. This is another must-read book for the Two Guys, but their discussion isn’t without its disagreements. In good Siskel and Ebert fashion, the guys spar over the nature of the Best American Comics volumes and, specifically, over the curious “Notable Comics” list in the very back of the book. (This is a list of other significant comics published between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014, but not making it into the volume proper.) Derek mentions the almost complete absence in this list of any titles reflecting mainstream (in a broad sense) sensibilities -- the one exception to this is Geoff Darrow’s Shaolin Cowboy from Dark Horse Comics -- and scratches his head over these choices that come with no permission or copyright obstacles. And he argues that discussing a text by what it is not can actually give a firmer grasp of what it actually is. Andy, on the other hand, is completely OK with the totally subjective approach to anthologies such as this, and he questions Derek's assumptions of the book's readership. The guys also discuss the notion that, in many ways, these selections are also political choices, especially when published by a major trade house such as Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. But these are the kinds of debates that should sound familiar to Comics Alternative listeners, especially when it comes to matters of awards, essential readings, and “Best of” collections. The bottom line, though, is that both Andy and Derek agree that The Best American Comics 2015 is yet another important contribution to our ever-expanding understanding of the medium. “Best” or not, these comics are definitely well worth reading. Mon, 21 Dec 2015 11:28:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bested? As has become an annual event, Andy and Derek use their penultimate show of the year to discuss the current volume of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's The Best American Comics. The series is overseen by Bill Kartalopoulos -- whom the guys interviewed on the show last year -- and this year's collection is edited by novelist Jonathan Lethem. The entries collected in The Best American Comics 2015 represent what both Lethem and Kartalopoulos consider to be the most outstanding comics published between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014. The guys begin by highlighting the organization of this year's volume, pointing out that Lethem has retained the topic- or theme-based approach used by Scott McCloud in last year's collection. The editor breaks down his entries into ten different chapter topics, ranging from the self-evident "Storytellers" and "Biopics and Historical Fictions" to more obscurely intriguing groupings such as "Brainworms" and "Raging Her-Moans." The guys are familiar with most of the contributions included this year -- to paraphrase Andy, The Best American Comics volumes just seem to reinforce their tastes in comics-- and many of them have been the subject of previous Comics Alternative reviews and interviews. They comment on the sheer number of entries that are excerpts from longer works, including Roz Chast's Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant?, Jules Feiffer's Kill My Mother, Farel Dalrymple's The Wrenchies, Gabrielle Bell's The Colombia Diaries, Sept 14-16, Cole Closser's Little Tommy Lost, Matthew Thurber Infomaniacs, Anya Ulinich's Lena Finkle's Magic Barrel, Jim Woodring's Fran, Anya Davidson's School Spirits, and Josh Bayer's Theth. Most of these selections easily stand on their own, but some could have benefited from more content or additional editorial context (examples being the excerpts from Anders Nilsen’s Rage of Poseidon and Joe Sacco’s The Great War.) Some of the highlights in this year's volume include works by creators that either Derek or Andy have never read before, such as Mat Brinkman and his darkly surreal Cretin Keep on Creep’n Creek, or Gina Wynbrandt and her hilariously self-deprecating Someone Please Have Sex with Me. This is another must-read book for the Two Guys, but their discussion isn’t without its disagreements. In good Siskel and Ebert fashion, the guys spar over the nature of the Best American Comics volumes and, specifically, over the curious “Notable Comics” list in the very back of the book. (This is a list of other significant comics published between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014, but not making it into the volume proper.) Derek mentions the almost complete absence in this list of any titles reflecting mainstream (in a broad sense) sensibilities -- the one exception to this is Geoff Darrow’s Shaolin Cowboy from Dark Horse Comics -- and scratches his head over these choices that come with no permission or copyright obstacles. And he argues that discussing a text by what it is not can actually give a firmer grasp of what it actually is. Andy, on the other hand, is completely OK with the totally subjective approach to anthologies such as this, and he questions Derek's assumptions of the book's readership. The guys also discuss the notion that, in many ways, these selections are also political choices, especially when published by a major trade house such as Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. But these are the kinds of debates that should sound familiar to Comics Alternative listeners, especially when it comes to matters of awards, essential readings, and “Best of” collections. The bottom line, though, is that both Andy and Derek agree that The Best American Comics 2015 is yet another important contribution to our ever-expanding understanding of the medium. “Best” or not, these comics are definitely well worth reading. As has become an annual event, Andy and Derek use their penultimate show of the year to discuss the current volume of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's The Best American Comics. The series is overseen by Bill Kartalopoulos -- whom the guys interviewed on the show last year -- and this year's collection is edited by novelist Jonathan Lethem. The entries collected in The Best American Comics 2015 represent what both Lethem and Kartalopoulos consider to be the most outstanding comics published between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014. The guys begin by highlighting the organization of this year's volume, pointing out that Lethem has retained the topic- or theme-based approach used by Scott McCloud in last year's collection. The editor breaks down his entries into ten different chapter topics, ranging from the self-evident "Storytellers" and "Biopics and Historical Fictions" to more obscurely intriguing groupings such as "Brainworms" and "Raging Her-Moans." The guys are familiar with most of the contributions included this year -- to paraphrase Andy, The Best American Comics volumes just seem to reinforce their tastes in comics-- and many of them have been the subject of previous Comics Alternative reviews and interviews. They comment on the sheer number of entries that are excerpts from longer works, including Roz Chast's Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant?, Jules Feiffer's Kill My Mother, Farel Dalrymple's The Wrenchies, Gabrielle Bell's The Colombia Diaries, Sept 14-16, Cole Closser's Little Tommy Lost, Matthew Thurber Infomaniacs, Anya Ulinich's Lena Finkle's Magic Barrel, Jim Woodring's Fran, Anya Davidson's School Spirits, and Josh Bayer's Theth. Most of these selections easily stand on their own, but some could have benefited from more content or additional editorial context (examples being the excerpts from Anders Nilsen’s Rage of Poseidon and Joe Sacco’s The Great War.) Some of the highlights in this year's volume include works by creators that either Derek or Andy have never read before, such as Mat Brinkman and his darkly surreal Cretin Keep on Creep’n Creek, or Gina Wynbrandt and her hilariously self-deprecating Someone Please Have Sex with Me. This is another must-read book for the Two Guys, but their discussion isn’t without its disagreements. In good Siskel and Ebert fashion, the guys spar over the nature of the Best American Comics volumes and, specifically, over the curious “Notable Comics” list in the very back of the book. (This is a list of other significant comics published between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014, but not making it into the volume proper.) Derek mentions the almost complete absence in this list of any titles reflecting mainstream (in a broad sense) sensibilities -- the one exception to this is Geoff Darrow’s Shaolin Cowboy from Dark Horse Comics -- and scratches his head over these choices that come with no permission or copyright obstacles. And he argues that discussing a text by what it is not can actually give a firmer grasp of what it actually is. Andy, on the other hand, is completely OK with the totally subjective approach to anthologies such as this, and he questions Derek's assumptions of the book's readership. The guys also discuss the notion that, in many ways, these selections are also political choices, especially when published by a major trade house such as Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. But these are the kinds of debates that should sound familiar to Comics Alternative listeners, especially when it comes to matters of awards, essential readings, and “Best of” collections. The bottom line, though, is that both Andy and Derek agree that The Best American Comics 2015 is yet another important contribution to our ever-expanding understanding of the medium. “Best” or not, these comics are definitely well worth reading.

]]> 5797 no Interviews - Alex Robinson http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-alex-robinson On this episode in The Comics Alternative Interviews series, Derek is pleased to have as his guest Alex Robinson. His latest book, Our Expanding Universe, was released earlier this month from Top Shelf. It's the story of three middle-aged friends going through life changes -- kids, careers, and relationships -- and how their friendships, and their marriages, weather those experiences. Readers already familiar with the author's earlier works, specifically Box Office Poison and Tricked, will recognize the tone and subject matter. Robinson is a master of character-driven narratives, especially when his protagonists bump up against the social realities that reflect his readers' own lives. He objective assessments aren't distancing, but instead bear an empathic stamp. You may not particularly like the characters you encounter, but you certainly understand their motivations and their unique perspectives. Much of the conversation revolves around the new book, but Derek also talks with Alex about his early years as a comics artist and how his approach, along with his career, has evolved over time. And much of that evolution has involved podcasting. In fact, Alex Robinson may just be the most dedicated fellow podcaster that has ever appeared on The Comics Alternative. He's currently involved in three different shows: Ink Panthers (a cartoonist's "lifestyle" podcast that he cohosts with Mike Dawson),  AlphaBeatical (an alphabetical look at the entire Beatles catalog, from 12 to Y), and the popular Star Wars Minute.  The latter -- a hot commodity right now, given all of the Force Awakens hoopla -- is a daily podcast where each episode is devoted to one individual minute of the Star Wars movies, in order, beginning to end. Andy Kunka has often called his buddy-cohost, Derek, the hardest working man in comics podcasting, but it's clear that Robinson has him beat. Between the comics and the podcasting, it's a wonder that Alex even had time to be on The Comics Alternative. Fri, 18 Dec 2015 03:30:59 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Real Life, in Pictures On this episode in The Comics Alternative Interviews series, Derek is pleased to have as his guest Alex Robinson. His latest book, Our Expanding Universe, was released earlier this month from Top Shelf. It's the story of three middle-aged friends going through life changes -- kids, careers, and relationships -- and how their friendships, and their marriages, weather those experiences. Readers already familiar with the author's earlier works, specifically Box Office Poison and Tricked, will recognize the tone and subject matter. Robinson is a master of character-driven narratives, especially when his protagonists bump up against the social realities that reflect his readers' own lives. He objective assessments aren't distancing, but instead bear an empathic stamp. You may not particularly like the characters you encounter, but you certainly understand their motivations and their unique perspectives. Much of the conversation revolves around the new book, but Derek also talks with Alex about his early years as a comics artist and how his approach, along with his career, has evolved over time. And much of that evolution has involved podcasting. In fact, Alex Robinson may just be the most dedicated fellow podcaster that has ever appeared on The Comics Alternative. He's currently involved in three different shows: Ink Panthers (a cartoonist's "lifestyle" podcast that he cohosts with Mike Dawson),  AlphaBeatical (an alphabetical look at the entire Beatles catalog, from 12 to Y), and the popular Star Wars Minute.  The latter -- a hot commodity right now, given all of the Force Awakens hoopla -- is a daily podcast where each episode is devoted to one individual minute of the Star Wars movies, in order, beginning to end. Andy Kunka has often called his buddy-cohost, Derek, the hardest working man in comics podcasting, but it's clear that Robinson has him beat. Between the comics and the podcasting, it's a wonder that Alex even had time to be on The Comics Alternative. On this episode in The Comics Alternative Interviews series, Derek is pleased to have as his guest Alex Robinson. His latest book, Our Expanding Universe, was released earlier this month from Top Shelf. It's the story of three middle-aged friends going through life changes -- kids, careers, and relationships -- and how their friendships, and their marriages, weather those experiences. Readers already familiar with the author's earlier works, specifically Box Office Poison and Tricked, will recognize the tone and subject matter. Robinson is a master of character-driven narratives, especially when his protagonists bump up against the social realities that reflect his readers' own lives. He objective assessments aren't distancing, but instead bear an empathic stamp. You may not particularly like the characters you encounter, but you certainly understand their motivations and their unique perspectives. Much of the conversation revolves around the new book, but Derek also talks with Alex about his early years as a comics artist and how his approach, along with his career, has evolved over time. And much of that evolution has involved podcasting. In fact, Alex Robinson may just be the most dedicated fellow podcaster that has ever appeared on The Comics Alternative. He's currently involved in three different shows: Ink Panthers (a cartoonist's "lifestyle" podcast that he cohosts with Mike Dawson),  AlphaBeatical (an alphabetical look at the entire Beatles catalog, from 12 to Y), and the popular Star Wars Minute.  The latter -- a hot commodity right now, given all of the Force Awakens hoopla -- is a daily podcast where each episode is devoted to one individual minute of the Star Wars movies, in order, beginning to end. Andy Kunka has often called his buddy-cohost, Derek, the hardest working man in comics podcasting, but it's clear that Robinson has him beat. Between the comics and the podcasting, it's a wonder that Alex even had time to be on The Comics Alternative.

]]> 5671 no Episode 166 - Reviews of Killing and Dying, Taddle Creek #36, Barrier #1, and The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-166-reviews-of-killing-and-dying-taddle-creek-36-barrier-1-and-the-unabridged-graphic-adaptation-of-itunes-terms-and-conditions For this week's review show, Gene and Derek are back with an extra long episode jam-packed with nougaty comics goodness. They begin with Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying (Drawn and Quarterly), his new book collecting issues twelve through fourteen of Optic Nerve. (Be sure to check out the guys' previous reviews of Optic Nerve #13 and Optic Nerve #14.) The text contains six separate short stories, and the guys start by trying to find any connective tissue binding the pieces together. Derek observes that every other story in the collection -- "Amber Sweet," "Translated, from the Japanese," and "Intruders" -- are first-person narratives functioning as confessionals of some sort. Also, the three longer stories that precede each of these "confessions" become progressively darker in tone. The overt humor embedded in "A Brief History of the Art Form Known as 'Hortisculpture'" gives way to the ambivalence of "Go Owls," which leads to the more ambiguously somber "Killing and Dying." Yet this is not a story cycle, by any means, with each narrative standing distinctively on its own, both in subject matter and art style. Next, the guys focus on a recent discovery, the semiannual Canadian magazine, Taddle Creek. It's latest issue, #36, is a special comics edition featuring many artists the guys admire, such as Noah Van Sciver, Dakota McFadzean, Meags Fitzgerald, Michael DeForge, David Collier, Nina Bunjevac, Joe Ollmann, and Maurice Vellekoop. And part of the joy of this collection is being introduced to creators Gene and Derek weren't familiar with, such as David Lapp, Philip Street, Eleri Mai Harris, Jason Kieffer, and Nick Maandag. It's difficult to pinpoint their favorites in this anthology, since everything in it is good...although Gene is quite taken by Fitzgerald's "The Village under the Clouds," and Derek spends a lot of time talking about the comedic sophistication of Ollmann's "A Road Trip with the Notorious M.I.L." After that, they discuss the newest digital comic out Panel Syndicate, Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin's Barrier #1. This is the first of a five-part tale of violence, division, and illegal immigration. (And just in time for the angry chaos currently known as the Republican primary!) Although Gene isn't yet familiar with the duo's previous collaborative efforts, Derek wonders if Barrier will have a similar impact as did The Private Eye. Finally, the guys wrap up with what has to be one of the oddest comics ever discussed on The Comics Alternative. R. Sikoryak's The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions -- published in two mini-comic volumes (and also on Sikoryak's Tumblr site) -- is just as the title describes: an unabridged adaptation of the oft-encountered, but never read, iTunes Terms and Conditions. What makes this comic so notable, and what makes it distinctively Sikoryakian, is the manner in which the artist adapts the text. Each page of the comic is not only a rendering of the iTunes legal mumbo jumbo, but also an exercise in representing comics' most distinctive creator styles. From Jim Steranko to Will Eisner, from Julie Doucet to Akira Toriyama, from Mort Walker to R. Crumb, from Bil Keane to Moebius...Sikoryak's art spans the history of comics, and with everything converging on the stubbled, bespectacled, and black turtlenecked figure of Steve Jobs. This is a fun read, perfect for those long nights of software installation. Wed, 16 Dec 2015 12:13:58 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Gene's cubical perspective" For this week's review show, Gene and Derek are back with an extra long episode jam-packed with nougaty comics goodness. They begin with Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying (Drawn and Quarterly), his new book collecting issues twelve through fourteen of Optic Nerve. (Be sure to check out the guys' previous reviews of Optic Nerve #13 and Optic Nerve #14.) The text contains six separate short stories, and the guys start by trying to find any connective tissue binding the pieces together. Derek observes that every other story in the collection -- "Amber Sweet," "Translated, from the Japanese," and "Intruders" -- are first-person narratives functioning as confessionals of some sort. Also, the three longer stories that precede each of these "confessions" become progressively darker in tone. The overt humor embedded in "A Brief History of the Art Form Known as 'Hortisculpture'" gives way to the ambivalence of "Go Owls," which leads to the more ambiguously somber "Killing and Dying." Yet this is not a story cycle, by any means, with each narrative standing distinctively on its own, both in subject matter and art style. Next, the guys focus on a recent discovery, the semiannual Canadian magazine, Taddle Creek. It's latest issue, #36, is a special comics edition featuring many artists the guys admire, such as Noah Van Sciver, Dakota McFadzean, Meags Fitzgerald, Michael DeForge, David Collier, Nina Bunjevac, Joe Ollmann, and Maurice Vellekoop. And part of the joy of this collection is being introduced to creators Gene and Derek weren't familiar with, such as David Lapp, Philip Street, Eleri Mai Harris, Jason Kieffer, and Nick Maandag. It's difficult to pinpoint their favorites in this anthology, since everything in it is good...although Gene is quite taken by Fitzgerald's "The Village under the Clouds," and Derek spends a lot of time talking about the comedic sophistication of Ollmann's "A Road Trip with the Notorious M.I.L." After that, they discuss the newest digital comic out Panel Syndicate, Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin's Barrier #1. This is the first of a five-part tale of violence, division, and illegal immigration. (And just in time for the angry chaos currently known as the Republican primary!) Although Gene isn't yet familiar with the duo's previous collaborative efforts, Derek wonders if Barrier will have a similar impact as did The Private Eye. Finally, the guys wrap up with what has to be one of the oddest comics ever discussed on The Comics Alternative. R. Sikoryak's The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions -- published in two mini-comic volumes (and also on Sikoryak's Tumblr site) -- is just as the title describes: an unabridged adaptation of the oft-encountered, but never read, iTunes Terms and Conditions. What makes this comic so notable, and what makes it distinctively Sikoryakian, is the manner in which the artist adapts the text. Each page of the comic is not only a rendering of the iTunes legal mumbo jumbo, but also an exercise in representing comics' most distinctive creator styles. From Jim Steranko to Will Eisner, from Julie Doucet to Akira Toriyama, from Mort Walker to R. Crumb, from Bil Keane to Moebius...Sikoryak's art spans the history of comics, and with everything converging on the stubbled, bespectacled, and black turtlenecked figure of Steve Jobs. This is a fun read, perfect for those long nights of software installation. For this week's review show, Gene and Derek are back with an extra long episode jam-packed with nougaty comics goodness. They begin with Adrian Tomine's Killing and Dying (Drawn and Quarterly), his new book collecting issues twelve through fourteen of Optic Nerve. (Be sure to check out the guys' previous reviews of Optic Nerve #13 and Optic Nerve #14.) The text contains six separate short stories, and the guys start by trying to find any connective tissue binding the pieces together. Derek observes that every other story in the collection -- "Amber Sweet," "Translated, from the Japanese," and "Intruders" -- are first-person narratives functioning as confessionals of some sort. Also, the three longer stories that precede each of these "confessions" become progressively darker in tone. The overt humor embedded in "A Brief History of the Art Form Known as 'Hortisculpture'" gives way to the ambivalence of "Go Owls," which leads to the more ambiguously somber "Killing and Dying." Yet this is not a story cycle, by any means, with each narrative standing distinctively on its own, both in subject matter and art style. Next, the guys focus on a recent discovery, the semiannual Canadian magazine, Taddle Creek. It's latest issue, #36, is a special comics edition featuring many artists the guys admire, such as Noah Van Sciver, Dakota McFadzean, Meags Fitzgerald, Michael DeForge, David Collier, Nina Bunjevac, Joe Ollmann, and Maurice Vellekoop. And part of the joy of this collection is being introduced to creators Gene and Derek weren't familiar with, such as David Lapp, Philip Street, Eleri Mai Harris, Jason Kieffer, and Nick Maandag. It's difficult to pinpoint their favorites in this anthology, since everything in it is good...although Gene is quite taken by Fitzgerald's "The Village under the Clouds," and Derek spends a lot of time talking about the comedic sophistication of Ollmann's "A Road Trip with the Notorious M.I.L." After that, they discuss the newest digital comic out Panel Syndicate, Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin's Barrier #1. This is the first of a five-part tale of violence, division, and illegal immigration. (And just in time for the angry chaos currently known as the Republican primary!) Although Gene isn't yet familiar with the duo's previous collaborative efforts, Derek wonders if Barrier will have a similar impact as did The Private Eye. Finally, the guys wrap up with what has to be one of the oddest comics ever discussed on The Comics Alternative. R. Sikoryak's The Unabridged Graphic Adaptation of iTunes Terms and Conditions -- published in two mini-comic volumes (and also on Sikoryak's Tumblr site) -- is just as the title describes: an unabridged adaptation of the oft-encountered, but never read, iTunes Terms and Conditions. What makes this comic so notable, and what makes it distinctively Sikoryakian, is the manner in which the artist adapts the text. Each page of the comic is not only a rendering of the iTunes legal mumbo jumbo, but also an exercise in representing comics' most distinctive creator styles. From Jim Steranko to Will Eisner, from Julie Doucet to Akira Toriyama, from Mort Walker to R. Crumb, from Bil Keane to Moebius...Sikoryak's art spans the history of comics, and with everything converging on the stubbled, bespectacled, and black turtlenecked figure of Steve Jobs. This is a fun read, perfect for those long nights of software installation.

]]> 7612 no Webcomics - Reviews of Strong Female Protagonist , Existential Comics , and Bucko http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-strong-female-protagonist-existential-comics-and-bucko For the month of December, Sean and Derek are back to discuss three very different, very distinct, webcomics. They begin with Brennan Lee Mulligan and Molly Otertag's Strong Female Protagonist, a title that has been going strong since 2012. As described by its creators, the story concerns "the adventures of a young middle-class American with super-strength, invincibility, and a crippling sense of social injustice." Although that may roughly encapsulate the premise, the webcomic is much more sophisticated than that. In fact, the guys spend a great deal of time discussing the creators' ambitions with the story, both in terms of the art and regarding its subject matter. Derek wonders if Mulligan, especially in the fifth chapter, may be trying to juggle too much at one time, making his narrative almost top-heavy with its intended messages. Sean disagrees, but he does see the philosophical ambitions embedded in the text. And it is on the topic of philosophy that the guys segue into their next title, Corey Mohler's Existential Comics. This webcomic is notable for two reasons: it's the first gag-based, done-in-one kind of comic that the guys have ever discussed on the webcomics series, and it's as funny as hell! It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that this is one of the funniest titles ever discussed on The Comics Alternative, webcomics or otherwise. Mohler uses actual philosophers themselves, and the entire history of philosophical thought, as the grist for his absurd mill. In Existential Comics you'll find the ancient Greeks playing Texas hold'em, Franz Kafka at the DMV, Diogenes encountering a commie-killing Abraham Lincoln, Albert Camus thwarting Rudolf Carnap's barfly pick-up efforts, Søren Kierkegaard at a rave, a zombie God (animated by Arthur Schopenhauer) attacking Friedrich Nietzsche, Simone de Beauvoir hosting her own cooking show, and a wide variety of philosophers trying to play Dungeons and Dragons. Finally, Derek and Sean wrap up with a look at Bucko, a short webcomic by Jeff Parker and Erika Moen that ran from 2011 to 2012. As the guys discuss, part of the fun of reading this title is seeing how Parker and Moen kept trying to outdo themselves with unlikely plot twists and characterization that built do an almost chaotic crescendo. Sean, however, isn't a fan of the story's ending, which he sees as too convenient and too predictably Scooby-Doo-like. Still, you could read Bucko -- along with Existential Comics -- as a freewheeling antidote to those holiday blues. Tue, 15 Dec 2015 14:41:12 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Angst Is the Word For the month of December, Sean and Derek are back to discuss three very different, very distinct, webcomics. They begin with Brennan Lee Mulligan and Molly Otertag's Strong Female Protagonist, a title that has been going strong since 2012. As described by its creators, the story concerns "the adventures of a young middle-class American with super-strength, invincibility, and a crippling sense of social injustice." Although that may roughly encapsulate the premise, the webcomic is much more sophisticated than that. In fact, the guys spend a great deal of time discussing the creators' ambitions with the story, both in terms of the art and regarding its subject matter. Derek wonders if Mulligan, especially in the fifth chapter, may be trying to juggle too much at one time, making his narrative almost top-heavy with its intended messages. Sean disagrees, but he does see the philosophical ambitions embedded in the text. And it is on the topic of philosophy that the guys segue into their next title, Corey Mohler's Existential Comics. This webcomic is notable for two reasons: it's the first gag-based, done-in-one kind of comic that the guys have ever discussed on the webcomics series, and it's as funny as hell! It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that this is one of the funniest titles ever discussed on The Comics Alternative, webcomics or otherwise. Mohler uses actual philosophers themselves, and the entire history of philosophical thought, as the grist for his absurd mill. In Existential Comics you'll find the ancient Greeks playing Texas hold'em, Franz Kafka at the DMV, Diogenes encountering a commie-killing Abraham Lincoln, Albert Camus thwarting Rudolf Carnap's barfly pick-up efforts, Søren Kierkegaard at a rave, a zombie God (animated by Arthur Schopenhauer) attacking Friedrich Nietzsche, Simone de Beauvoir hosting her own cooking show, and a wide variety of philosophers trying to play Dungeons and Dragons. Finally, Derek and Sean wrap up with a look at Bucko, a short webcomic by Jeff Parker and Erika Moen that ran from 2011 to 2012. As the guys discuss, part of the fun of reading this title is seeing how Parker and Moen kept trying to outdo themselves with unlikely plot twists and characterization that built do an almost chaotic crescendo. Sean, however, isn't a fan of the story's ending, which he sees as too convenient and too predictably Scooby-Doo-like. Still, you could read Bucko -- along with Existential Comics -- as a freewheeling antidote to those holiday blues. For the month of December, Sean and Derek are back to discuss three very different, very distinct, webcomics. They begin with Brennan Lee Mulligan and Molly Otertag's Strong Female Protagonist, a title that has been going strong since 2012. As described by its creators, the story concerns "the adventures of a young middle-class American with super-strength, invincibility, and a crippling sense of social injustice." Although that may roughly encapsulate the premise, the webcomic is much more sophisticated than that. In fact, the guys spend a great deal of time discussing the creators' ambitions with the story, both in terms of the art and regarding its subject matter. Derek wonders if Mulligan, especially in the fifth chapter, may be trying to juggle too much at one time, making his narrative almost top-heavy with its intended messages. Sean disagrees, but he does see the philosophical ambitions embedded in the text. And it is on the topic of philosophy that the guys segue into their next title, Corey Mohler's Existential Comics. This webcomic is notable for two reasons: it's the first gag-based, done-in-one kind of comic that the guys have ever discussed on the webcomics series, and it's as funny as hell! It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that this is one of the funniest titles ever discussed on The Comics Alternative, webcomics or otherwise. Mohler uses actual philosophers themselves, and the entire history of philosophical thought, as the grist for his absurd mill. In Existential Comics you'll find the ancient Greeks playing Texas hold'em, Franz Kafka at the DMV, Diogenes encountering a commie-killing Abraham Lincoln, Albert Camus thwarting Rudolf Carnap's barfly pick-up efforts, Søren Kierkegaard at a rave, a zombie God (animated by Arthur Schopenhauer) attacking Friedrich Nietzsche, Simone de Beauvoir hosting her own cooking show, and a wide variety of philosophers trying to play Dungeons and Dragons. Finally, Derek and Sean wrap up with a look at Bucko, a short webcomic by Jeff Parker and Erika Moen that ran from 2011 to 2012. As the guys discuss, part of the fun of reading this title is seeing how Parker and Moen kept trying to outdo themselves with unlikely plot twists and characterization that built do an almost chaotic crescendo. Sean, however, isn't a fan of the story's ending, which he sees as too convenient and too predictably Scooby-Doo-like. Still, you could read Bucko -- along with Existential Comics -- as a freewheeling antidote to those holiday blues.

]]> 4794 no Episode 165 - A Publisher Spotlight on Locust Moon Press http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-165-a-publisher-spotlight-on-locust-moon-press One of the things that has defined 2015 for The Comics Alternative has been the number of Publisher Spotlights it's presented -- seven, up until today. This week, the Two Guys are back with their eighth and final spotlight of the year, one on the fall releases out of Locust Moon Press. They begin their critical focus with a brief interview Derek conducted with Josh O'Neill, the publisher of Locust Moon Press. In that conversation, Josh shares the background and history of Locust Moon, first as a bookstore (which will be closing its doors early next year) and then as a publisher with an impressive catalog. They also discuss the press' success with Kickstarter, including last year's campaign with Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream and the current efforts with The Lost Work of Will Eisner. After that, Andy and Derek get into the nitty gritty of the show, a discussion of Locust Moon's fall releases. They begin with Prometheus Eternal, a short collection of stories inspired by Rubens's famous painting, Prometheus Bound. This work was created in collaboration with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and including work by such creators as Grant Morrison, Paul Pope, Dave McKean, Bill Sienkiewicz, Farel Dalrymple, Yuko Shimizu, and David Mack. Next, the guys turn to another collection, this one the sixth issue of Quarter Moon. The theme to this issue is "Impractical Cats," and with cat-related contributions from a variety of creators including Farel Dalrymple, Tia McClelland, Mike Sgier, Lisk Feng, Jim Comey, Gregory Benton, J.G. Jones, Dean Haspiel, Jeremy Baum, and a host of others. After that, they look at Ben Kahn and Bruno Hidalgo's Shaman, a satiric and inventive mashup of superheroes, the supernatural, and humor. Neither Andy nor Derek were aware of Shaman before this spotlight episode -- they completely missed Kahn's Kickstarter from earlier this year -- but now they're totally on board and look forward to more of this series, because it's funny as hell. Finally, the guys wrap up with a long discussion of Little Nemo's Big New Dreams, a joint effort with Françoise Mouly's TOON Graphics. This is a smaller, more affordable, and more holdable, version of the broadsheet-sized Dream Another Dream, including more than thirty strips from the Eisner Award-winning collection. And like the aforementioned Prometheus Eternal and Quarter Moon collections, this TOON book is chock-full of impressive contributors, including Art Spiegelman, Craig Thompson, Carla Speed McNeil, Mark Buckingham, Roger Langridge, Box Brown, R. Sikoryak, Jim Rugg, Yuko Shimizu, Gerhard...and the list goes on. In fact, you could even see today's show as the most creator-packed episode that the Two Guys have ever recorded. Wed, 09 Dec 2015 01:57:25 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal How High the Moon One of the things that has defined 2015 for The Comics Alternative has been the number of Publisher Spotlights it's presented -- seven, up until today. This week, the Two Guys are back with their eighth and final spotlight of the year, one on the fall releases out of Locust Moon Press. They begin their critical focus with a brief interview Derek conducted with Josh O'Neill, the publisher of Locust Moon Press. In that conversation, Josh shares the background and history of Locust Moon, first as a bookstore (which will be closing its doors early next year) and then as a publisher with an impressive catalog. They also discuss the press' success with Kickstarter, including last year's campaign with Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream and the current efforts with The Lost Work of Will Eisner. After that, Andy and Derek get into the nitty gritty of the show, a discussion of Locust Moon's fall releases. They begin with Prometheus Eternal, a short collection of stories inspired by Rubens's famous painting, Prometheus Bound. This work was created in collaboration with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and including work by such creators as Grant Morrison, Paul Pope, Dave McKean, Bill Sienkiewicz, Farel Dalrymple, Yuko Shimizu, and David Mack. Next, the guys turn to another collection, this one the sixth issue of Quarter Moon. The theme to this issue is "Impractical Cats," and with cat-related contributions from a variety of creators including Farel Dalrymple, Tia McClelland, Mike Sgier, Lisk Feng, Jim Comey, Gregory Benton, J.G. Jones, Dean Haspiel, Jeremy Baum, and a host of others. After that, they look at Ben Kahn and Bruno Hidalgo's Shaman, a satiric and inventive mashup of superheroes, the supernatural, and humor. Neither Andy nor Derek were aware of Shaman before this spotlight episode -- they completely missed Kahn's Kickstarter from earlier this year -- but now they're totally on board and look forward to more of this series, because it's funny as hell. Finally, the guys wrap up with a long discussion of Little Nemo's Big New Dreams, a joint effort with Françoise Mouly's TOON Graphics. This is a smaller, more affordable, and more holdable, version of the broadsheet-sized Dream Another Dream, including more than thirty strips from the Eisner Award-winning collection. And like the aforementioned Prometheus Eternal and Quarter Moon collections, this TOON book is chock-full of impressive contributors, including Art Spiegelman, Craig Thompson, Carla Speed McNeil, Mark Buckingham, Roger Langridge, Box Brown, R. Sikoryak, Jim Rugg, Yuko Shimizu, Gerhard...and the list goes on. In fact, you could even see today's show as the most creator-packed episode that the Two Guys have ever recorded. One of the things that has defined 2015 for The Comics Alternative has been the number of Publisher Spotlights it's presented -- seven, up until today. This week, the Two Guys are back with their eighth and final spotlight of the year, one on the fall releases out of Locust Moon Press. They begin their critical focus with a brief interview Derek conducted with Josh O'Neill, the publisher of Locust Moon Press. In that conversation, Josh shares the background and history of Locust Moon, first as a bookstore (which will be closing its doors early next year) and then as a publisher with an impressive catalog. They also discuss the press' success with Kickstarter, including last year's campaign with Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream and the current efforts with The Lost Work of Will Eisner. After that, Andy and Derek get into the nitty gritty of the show, a discussion of Locust Moon's fall releases. They begin with Prometheus Eternal, a short collection of stories inspired by Rubens's famous painting, Prometheus Bound. This work was created in collaboration with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and including work by such creators as Grant Morrison, Paul Pope, Dave McKean, Bill Sienkiewicz, Farel Dalrymple, Yuko Shimizu, and David Mack. Next, the guys turn to another collection, this one the sixth issue of Quarter Moon. The theme to this issue is "Impractical Cats," and with cat-related contributions from a variety of creators including Farel Dalrymple, Tia McClelland, Mike Sgier, Lisk Feng, Jim Comey, Gregory Benton, J.G. Jones, Dean Haspiel, Jeremy Baum, and a host of others. After that, they look at Ben Kahn and Bruno Hidalgo's Shaman, a satiric and inventive mashup of superheroes, the supernatural, and humor. Neither Andy nor Derek were aware of Shaman before this spotlight episode -- they completely missed Kahn's Kickstarter from earlier this year -- but now they're totally on board and look forward to more of this series, because it's funny as hell. Finally, the guys wrap up with a long discussion of Little Nemo's Big New Dreams, a joint effort with Françoise Mouly's TOON Graphics. This is a smaller, more affordable, and more holdable, version of the broadsheet-sized Dream Another Dream, including more than thirty strips from the Eisner Award-winning collection. And like the aforementioned Prometheus Eternal and Quarter Moon collections, this TOON book is chock-full of impressive contributors, including Art Spiegelman, Craig Thompson, Carla Speed McNeil, Mark Buckingham, Roger Langridge, Box Brown, R. Sikoryak, Jim Rugg, Yuko Shimizu, Gerhard...and the list goes on. In fact, you could even see today's show as the most creator-packed episode that the Two Guys have ever recorded.

]]> 7938 no Interviews - Ed Brisson http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-ed-brisson In yet another of the Two Guys' interview series, Derek is back to talk with one of the hardest working people in comics today, Ed Brisson. The first issue of his and Adam Gorham's new series, The Violent, will be released tomorrow, and Ed shares with Derek the story behind this new ongoing title from Image Comics. In fact, Ed reveals that the genesis of the narrative actually springs from his earlier webcomic (and later Dark Horse title), Murder Book. The protagonists, Mason and Becky, are a young working class couple with a checkered past trying to escape the drugs and crime that helped to get them where they are today. As Ed describes, their dilemma has very much a "Murder Book feel," making The Violent an ongoing extension of that story collection. The two also talk about his and Lisandro Estherren's upcoming four-issue miniseries from BOOM! Studios, The Last Contract, the story of a retired hitman who reluctantly finds himself forced back into the business. Along the way, they also bring in discussions of Ed's previous series such as Comeback, The Field, The Mantle, Cluster, and Sheltered. In fact, it's all that Derek can do to contain a conversation that includes such prodigious output. Ed's definitely a hard-working writer, but as he makes clear in the interview, he knows how to let loose, have a good time, and then let those experiences inform his art. Tue, 08 Dec 2015 15:33:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "I've got no problem with hipsters" In yet another of the Two Guys' interview series, Derek is back to talk with one of the hardest working people in comics today, Ed Brisson. The first issue of his and Adam Gorham's new series, The Violent, will be released tomorrow, and Ed shares with Derek the story behind this new ongoing title from Image Comics. In fact, Ed reveals that the genesis of the narrative actually springs from his earlier webcomic (and later Dark Horse title), Murder Book. The protagonists, Mason and Becky, are a young working class couple with a checkered past trying to escape the drugs and crime that helped to get them where they are today. As Ed describes, their dilemma has very much a "Murder Book feel," making The Violent an ongoing extension of that story collection. The two also talk about his and Lisandro Estherren's upcoming four-issue miniseries from BOOM! Studios, The Last Contract, the story of a retired hitman who reluctantly finds himself forced back into the business. Along the way, they also bring in discussions of Ed's previous series such as Comeback, The Field, The Mantle, Cluster, and Sheltered. In fact, it's all that Derek can do to contain a conversation that includes such prodigious output. Ed's definitely a hard-working writer, but as he makes clear in the interview, he knows how to let loose, have a good time, and then let those experiences inform his art. In yet another of the Two Guys' interview series, Derek is back to talk with one of the hardest working people in comics today, Ed Brisson. The first issue of his and Adam Gorham's new series, The Violent, will be released tomorrow, and Ed shares with Derek the story behind this new ongoing title from Image Comics. In fact, Ed reveals that the genesis of the narrative actually springs from his earlier webcomic (and later Dark Horse title), Murder Book. The protagonists, Mason and Becky, are a young working class couple with a checkered past trying to escape the drugs and crime that helped to get them where they are today. As Ed describes, their dilemma has very much a "Murder Book feel," making The Violent an ongoing extension of that story collection. The two also talk about his and Lisandro Estherren's upcoming four-issue miniseries from BOOM! Studios, The Last Contract, the story of a retired hitman who reluctantly finds himself forced back into the business. Along the way, they also bring in discussions of Ed's previous series such as Comeback, The Field, The Mantle, Cluster, and Sheltered. In fact, it's all that Derek can do to contain a conversation that includes such prodigious output. Ed's definitely a hard-working writer, but as he makes clear in the interview, he knows how to let loose, have a good time, and then let those experiences inform his art.

]]> 4567 no Episode 165 Teaser http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-165-teaser Tomorrow the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics will release a Publisher Spotlight episode devoted to the fall releases from Locust Moon Press. As part of that show, Derek talks briefly with the Locust Moon publisher, Josh O'Neill, about the history of the press, it's recent output, and its success with Kickstarter campaigns. In fact, Josh shares in detail Locust Moon's latest Kickstarter, The Lost Work of Will Eisner, which will wrap up on December 10th. As a way of teasing tomorrow's episode, and in order to give listeners more time to learn about and back this Kickstarter campaign, we are making Derek's conversation with Josh available today. Tue, 08 Dec 2015 14:43:56 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Conversation with Josh O'Neill Tomorrow the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics will release a Publisher Spotlight episode devoted to the fall releases from Locust Moon Press. As part of that show, Derek talks briefly with the Locust Moon publisher, Josh O'Neill, about the history of the press, it's recent output, and its success with Kickstarter campaigns. In fact, Josh shares in detail Locust Moon's latest Kickstarter, The Lost Work of Will Eisner, which will wrap up on December 10th. As a way of teasing tomorrow's episode, and in order to give listeners more time to learn about and back this Kickstarter campaign, we are making Derek's conversation with Josh available today. Tomorrow the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics will release a Publisher Spotlight episode devoted to the fall releases from Locust Moon Press. As part of that show, Derek talks briefly with the Locust Moon publisher, Josh O'Neill, about the history of the press, it's recent output, and its success with Kickstarter campaigns. In fact, Josh shares in detail Locust Moon's latest Kickstarter, The Lost Work of Will Eisner, which will wrap up on December 10th. As a way of teasing tomorrow's episode, and in order to give listeners more time to learn about and back this Kickstarter campaign, we are making Derek's conversation with Josh available today.

]]> 1427 no Interviews - Jon Morris http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-jon-morris On this interview episode, Derek is pleased to have as his guest Jon Morris, the author behind The League of Regrettable Superheroes (Quirk Books). This is a book devoted to the heroes throughout comic-book history who just never made it to the big time...and for good reason. As Jon discusses on the show, his work chronicles some of comics' weirdest and wackiest superheroes, complete with backstories, publication history, and colorful vintage art. In the pages of The League of Regrettable Superheroes you'll find strange figures from the Golden and Silver Ages, as well as plenty of head-scratching curiosities from more contemporary times. Throughout much of their conversation, Derek and Jon discuss some of their favorite regrettables, including The Red Bee (a district attorney donning striped leggings and carrying bees hidden inside his belt, his favorite being named "Michael"), The Clown (a police commissioner turned crimefighting circus clown), The Eye (a giant, disembodied eye...that's it, just a floating eye), Nightmare and Sleepy (pro wrestlers dressed in white and with an apparent skeleton fetish), Captain Marvel (not who you think, but someone whose disturbing superpowers includes disengaging his body parts), Fatman the Human Flying Saucer (a green-wearing version of the Fawcett Captain Marvel, but one with a weight problem who turns into a flying saucer), Gunmaster (a pacifist who relies on an inventive arsenal of guns to fight crime), Adam-X The X-Treme (a hero embodying the X-treme worst of '90s culture), the New Guardians (DC Comics' attempt at multiculturalism gone horribly wrong), and Killjoy (Steve Ditko's silent Ayn Randian "mouthpiece"). Jon even discusses some of the earlier manifestations of very current heroes, such the Outsiders, Prez, and Squirrel Girl. What comes through in the guys' conversation -- and what is central to the success of the book -- is Jon Morris's sense of humor. Then again, you have to have one to write about this unlikely collection of crimefighters. A candy-inspired strongman named Captain Tootsie? A robot with an iron propeller beanie named Bozo? CLICK HERE FOR REGRETTABLE SAMPLES! Be sure to check out Jon's web presence: His personal website, Calamity Jon His blog, Gone and Forgotten Blog And his and R.J. White's Columbo tribute podcast, Just One More Thing Mon, 07 Dec 2015 03:39:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal On a Collision Course for Super Wackiness On this interview episode, Derek is pleased to have as his guest Jon Morris, the author behind The League of Regrettable Superheroes (Quirk Books). This is a book devoted to the heroes throughout comic-book history who just never made it to the big time...and for good reason. As Jon discusses on the show, his work chronicles some of comics' weirdest and wackiest superheroes, complete with backstories, publication history, and colorful vintage art. In the pages of The League of Regrettable Superheroes you'll find strange figures from the Golden and Silver Ages, as well as plenty of head-scratching curiosities from more contemporary times. Throughout much of their conversation, Derek and Jon discuss some of their favorite regrettables, including The Red Bee (a district attorney donning striped leggings and carrying bees hidden inside his belt, his favorite being named "Michael"), The Clown (a police commissioner turned crimefighting circus clown), The Eye (a giant, disembodied eye...that's it, just a floating eye), Nightmare and Sleepy (pro wrestlers dressed in white and with an apparent skeleton fetish), Captain Marvel (not who you think, but someone whose disturbing superpowers includes disengaging his body parts), Fatman the Human Flying Saucer (a green-wearing version of the Fawcett Captain Marvel, but one with a weight problem who turns into a flying saucer), Gunmaster (a pacifist who relies on an inventive arsenal of guns to fight crime), Adam-X The X-Treme (a hero embodying the X-treme worst of '90s culture), the New Guardians (DC Comics' attempt at multiculturalism gone horribly wrong), and Killjoy (Steve Ditko's silent Ayn Randian "mouthpiece"). Jon even discusses some of the earlier manifestations of very current heroes, such the Outsiders, Prez, and Squirrel Girl. What comes through in the guys' conversation -- and what is central to the success of the book -- is Jon Morris's sense of humor. Then again, you have to have one to write about this unlikely collection of crimefighters. A candy-inspired strongman named Captain Tootsie? A robot with an iron propeller beanie named Bozo? CLICK HERE FOR REGRETTABLE SAMPLES! Be sure to check out Jon's web presence: His personal website, Calamity Jon His blog, Gone and Forgotten Blog And his and R.J. White's Columbo tribute podcast, Just One More Thing On this interview episode, Derek is pleased to have as his guest Jon Morris, the author behind The League of Regrettable Superheroes (Quirk Books). This is a book devoted to the heroes throughout comic-book history who just never made it to the big time...and for good reason. As Jon discusses on the show, his work chronicles some of comics' weirdest and wackiest superheroes, complete with backstories, publication history, and colorful vintage art. In the pages of The League of Regrettable Superheroes you'll find strange figures from the Golden and Silver Ages, as well as plenty of head-scratching curiosities from more contemporary times. Throughout much of their conversation, Derek and Jon discuss some of their favorite regrettables, including The Red Bee (a district attorney donning striped leggings and carrying bees hidden inside his belt, his favorite being named "Michael"), The Clown (a police commissioner turned crimefighting circus clown), The Eye (a giant, disembodied eye...that's it, just a floating eye), Nightmare and Sleepy (pro wrestlers dressed in white and with an apparent skeleton fetish), Captain Marvel (not who you think, but someone whose disturbing superpowers includes disengaging his body parts), Fatman the Human Flying Saucer (a green-wearing version of the Fawcett Captain Marvel, but one with a weight problem who turns into a flying saucer), Gunmaster (a pacifist who relies on an inventive arsenal of guns to fight crime), Adam-X The X-Treme (a hero embodying the X-treme worst of '90s culture), the New Guardians (DC Comics' attempt at multiculturalism gone horribly wrong), and Killjoy (Steve Ditko's silent Ayn Randian "mouthpiece"). Jon even discusses some of the earlier manifestations of very current heroes, such the Outsiders, Prez, and Squirrel Girl. What comes through in the guys' conversation -- and what is central to the success of the book -- is Jon Morris's sense of humor. Then again, you have to have one to write about this unlikely collection of crimefighters. A candy-inspired strongman named Captain Tootsie? A robot with an iron propeller beanie named Bozo?

CLICK HERE FOR REGRETTABLE SAMPLES!

Be sure to check out Jon's web presence:

]]> 5724 no Young Readers - The Best of 2015 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-the-best-of-2015 As the end of 2015 draws near and the holiday shopping season is in full swing, Andy and Gwen have drawn up their lists of their favorite comics for young readers released during the last year. Although their choices run the gamut from texts for early readers up through to texts for teens, every text mentioned creates a fine balance between serious subject matter and engaging artwork and writing. Many of these comics would be great choices for parents and kids to read together.  Andy’s List: Astro Boy Omnibus, Vol. 1, Osamu Tezuka (Dark Horse Manga) The Kurdles, Robert Goodin (Fantagraphics) Lost in NYC: A Subway Adventure, Nadja Spiegelman and Sergio Garcia Sanchez (Toon Graphics) Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: The Underground Abductor (Harry N. Abrams) Oyster War, Ben Towle (Oni Press) Roller Girl, Victoria Jamieson (Dial Books) Gwen’s List: Secret Coders, Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes (First Second) Awkward, Svetlana Chmakova (Yen Press) The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Romeo and Juliet, Ian Lendler and Zack Giallongo (First Second) March: Book Two, John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf Productions) Lumberjanes, Vol. 1, Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Brooke A. Allen, and Shannon Watters (BOOM! Studios) Books that both Gwen and Andy Selected: Sunny Side Up, Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm, (Graphix) Hereville: How Mirka Caught a Fish, Barry Deutsch (Harry N. Abrams) Andy and Gwen alternate leading discussion for each book and finish up by discussing two books that made both of their lists. Fri, 04 Dec 2015 12:55:31 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Perfect Gifts for Hanukkah! As the end of 2015 draws near and the holiday shopping season is in full swing, Andy and Gwen have drawn up their lists of their favorite comics for young readers released during the last year. Although their choices run the gamut from texts for early readers up through to texts for teens, every text mentioned creates a fine balance between serious subject matter and engaging artwork and writing. Many of these comics would be great choices for parents and kids to read together.  Andy’s List: Astro Boy Omnibus, Vol. 1, Osamu Tezuka (Dark Horse Manga) The Kurdles, Robert Goodin (Fantagraphics) Lost in NYC: A Subway Adventure, Nadja Spiegelman and Sergio Garcia Sanchez (Toon Graphics) Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: The Underground Abductor (Harry N. Abrams) Oyster War, Ben Towle (Oni Press) Roller Girl, Victoria Jamieson (Dial Books) Gwen’s List: Secret Coders, Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes (First Second) Awkward, Svetlana Chmakova (Yen Press) The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Romeo and Juliet, Ian Lendler and Zack Giallongo (First Second) March: Book Two, John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell (Top Shelf Productions) Lumberjanes, Vol. 1, Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Brooke A. Allen, and Shannon Watters (BOOM! Studios) Books that both Gwen and Andy Selected: Sunny Side Up, Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm, (Graphix) Hereville: How Mirka Caught a Fish, Barry Deutsch (Harry N. Abrams) Andy and Gwen alternate leading discussion for each book and finish up by discussing two books that made both of their lists. As the end of 2015 draws near and the holiday shopping season is in full swing, Andy and Gwen have drawn up their lists of their favorite comics for young readers released during the last year. Although their choices run the gamut from texts for early readers up through to texts for teens, every text mentioned creates a fine balance between serious subject matter and engaging artwork and writing. Many of these comics would be great choices for parents and kids to read together. 

Andy’s List:

Gwen’s List:

Books that both Gwen and Andy Selected:

Andy and Gwen alternate leading discussion for each book and finish up by discussing two books that made both of their lists.

]]> 5760 no Episode 164 - The December Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-164-the-december-previews-catalog As Andy and Derek do at the beginning of every month, they use this first week of December to flip through the latest Previews catalog, highlighting upcoming series and notable new releases that capture their attention. Among the many soon-to-be-released titles they discuss on this week's show are comics from Dark Horse Comics - King's Road #1, Neal Adams' Blood, and I Am a Hero Omnibus, Vol. 1 DC/Vertigo - The Dark and Bloody #1 IDW Publishing - Wynonna Earp #1, Archie's Americana Box Set, and Haunted Love #1 Image Comics - Mirror #1, Snow Fall #1, Bloody Mary, and Octopus Pie Vol. 2 Action Lab Entertainment - The House of Montresor #1 AfterShock Comics - Second Sight #1 Alterna Comics - All My Ghosts Alternative Comics - Street Dawgz, From Now On, The Sequential Artist's Workshop, and Incomplete Works Bergen Street Press - Revenger, Vol. 1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Future Shock Zero BOOM! Studios - Kennel Block Blues #1 and Hit: 1957 Conundrum Press - Adventures of Drippy the Newsboy, Vol. 2: The Red Drip of Courage and Ramshackle: A Yellowknife Story Dynamite Entertainment - Shaft: Imitation of Life #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Big Kids Fantagraphics Books - Powr Mastrs Book 4, Kramer's Ergot 9, Ganges #5, The Meat Cake Bible, and Crickets #5 First Second - Last Man, Vol. 4: The Show and Sweaterweather and Other Short Stories Humanoids - The Ark Improper Books - Mulp: Sceptre of the Sun #1 and Porcelain: Bone China Last Gasp - As You Were, Vol. 4: Living Situations Magnetic Press, Inc. - Golem, Vol. 1 Oni Press - Wet Moon, Book One: Feeble Wanderings Pantheon Books - The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye 21 Pulp - Hero Hourly Viz Media - JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Part 2 - Battle Tendencies, Vol. 2 and Assassination Classroom, Vol. 8 Vanguard Productions - Wally Wood: Jungle Adventures with Jim King and Animan Also in this episode: the guys enthusiastically welcome new Patreon supporters; complain about reading from PDF files; discuss the increasing weirdness of Neal Adams; speculate on the pronunciation of "Amontillado"; anticipate next year's new SyFy series, Wynonna Earp; pat themselves on the back for getting an endorsement blurb for a major upcoming book; and, of course, give a lot of love to Fantagraphics. Wed, 02 Dec 2015 11:57:34 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Coming Soon As Andy and Derek do at the beginning of every month, they use this first week of December to flip through the latest Previews catalog, highlighting upcoming series and notable new releases that capture their attention. Among the many soon-to-be-released titles they discuss on this week's show are comics from Dark Horse Comics - King's Road #1, Neal Adams' Blood, and I Am a Hero Omnibus, Vol. 1 DC/Vertigo - The Dark and Bloody #1 IDW Publishing - Wynonna Earp #1, Archie's Americana Box Set, and Haunted Love #1 Image Comics - Mirror #1, Snow Fall #1, Bloody Mary, and Octopus Pie Vol. 2 Action Lab Entertainment - The House of Montresor #1 AfterShock Comics - Second Sight #1 Alterna Comics - All My Ghosts Alternative Comics - Street Dawgz, From Now On, The Sequential Artist's Workshop, and Incomplete Works Bergen Street Press - Revenger, Vol. 1 Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Future Shock Zero BOOM! Studios - Kennel Block Blues #1 and Hit: 1957 Conundrum Press - Adventures of Drippy the Newsboy, Vol. 2: The Red Drip of Courage and Ramshackle: A Yellowknife Story Dynamite Entertainment - Shaft: Imitation of Life #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Big Kids Fantagraphics Books - Powr Mastrs Book 4, Kramer's Ergot 9, Ganges #5, The Meat Cake Bible, and Crickets #5 First Second - Last Man, Vol. 4: The Show and Sweaterweather and Other Short Stories Humanoids - The Ark Improper Books - Mulp: Sceptre of the Sun #1 and Porcelain: Bone China Last Gasp - As You Were, Vol. 4: Living Situations Magnetic Press, Inc. - Golem, Vol. 1 Oni Press - Wet Moon, Book One: Feeble Wanderings Pantheon Books - The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye 21 Pulp - Hero Hourly Viz Media - JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Part 2 - Battle Tendencies, Vol. 2 and Assassination Classroom, Vol. 8 Vanguard Productions - Wally Wood: Jungle Adventures with Jim King and Animan Also in this episode: the guys enthusiastically welcome new Patreon supporters; complain about reading from PDF files; discuss the increasing weirdness of Neal Adams; speculate on the pronunciation of "Amontillado"; anticipate next year's new SyFy series, Wynonna Earp; pat themselves on the back for getting an endorsement blurb for a major upcoming book; and, of course, give a lot of love to Fantagraphics. As Andy and Derek do at the beginning of every month, they use this first week of December to flip through the latest Previews catalog, highlighting upcoming series and notable new releases that capture their attention. Among the many soon-to-be-released titles they discuss on this week's show are comics from

Also in this episode: the guys enthusiastically welcome new Patreon supporters; complain about reading from PDF files; discuss the increasing weirdness of Neal Adams; speculate on the pronunciation of "Amontillado"; anticipate next year's new SyFy series, Wynonna Earp; pat themselves on the back for getting an endorsement blurb for a major upcoming book; and, of course, give a lot of love to Fantagraphics.

]]> 5604 no Manga - Reviews of Shigeru Mizuki’s Hitler and Message to Adolf http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-shigeru-mizukis-hitler-and-message-to-adolf Another month, another healthy dose of manga! For November, Shea and Derek make it a themed episode, one whose binding tie is an unlikely and infamous historical figure. To coincide with the 70th anniversary of the start of the Nuremberg Trials, the guys discuss two masters of manga and their takes on Adolf Hitler. They begin with Shigeru Mizuki's Hitler, released earlier this month from Drawn and Quarterly. Since 2011, the Canadian publisher has been introducing English-speakers to the incredible work of Mizuki, and this most recent translation is of a curious graphic biography originally published in 1971. Mizuki approaches Hitler's life as more of a character-study than as a historical determinant. Over the course of the book's first half, we see a very human, very pathetic -- and very troubled -- Adolf Hitler, a man whose failures far outweigh his triumphs. But both Shea and Derek note that as the text carries us into the 1940s, Mizuki's narrative is more rapid-fire and historically episodic, and the man that we're left with is the failed, unstable dictator most often depicted in popular media. Next, the Two Manga Guys turn to a more epic undertaking, Osamu Tezuka's A Message to Adolf (Vertical). Originally serialized in Shukan Bunshun magazine between 1983 and 1985, this is a work of fiction that heavily incorporates the historical figure. In fact, the entire narrative -- totaling over 1,200 pages in Vertical's most recent edition -- is driven by questions surrounding Hitler's possible Jewish heritage. The gist of the story, however, is devoted to the lives of two other Adolfs, both living in Kobe, Japan: one a German Jew growing up in the East, and the other a half-Japanese son of a Nazi Party official. The two become fast friends, only to have history, and fascist ideology, disrupt that relationship. Another character, a newspaper reporter named Sohei Toge, functions as the binding element of these various storylines, and both Derek and Shea highlight -- and marvel at -- the many moving parts that make up this narrative. This is a massive work that shows Tezuka at the peak of his artistry and storytelling abilities. There may be a lot of Hitler in this month's episode, but in the hands of both Mizuki and Tezuka, it's the kind of Hitler that the Two Guys can definitely stomach. Mon, 30 Nov 2015 12:44:35 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal This is NOT the History Channel Another month, another healthy dose of manga! For November, Shea and Derek make it a themed episode, one whose binding tie is an unlikely and infamous historical figure. To coincide with the 70th anniversary of the start of the Nuremberg Trials, the guys discuss two masters of manga and their takes on Adolf Hitler. They begin with Shigeru Mizuki's Hitler, released earlier this month from Drawn and Quarterly. Since 2011, the Canadian publisher has been introducing English-speakers to the incredible work of Mizuki, and this most recent translation is of a curious graphic biography originally published in 1971. Mizuki approaches Hitler's life as more of a character-study than as a historical determinant. Over the course of the book's first half, we see a very human, very pathetic -- and very troubled -- Adolf Hitler, a man whose failures far outweigh his triumphs. But both Shea and Derek note that as the text carries us into the 1940s, Mizuki's narrative is more rapid-fire and historically episodic, and the man that we're left with is the failed, unstable dictator most often depicted in popular media. Next, the Two Manga Guys turn to a more epic undertaking, Osamu Tezuka's A Message to Adolf (Vertical). Originally serialized in Shukan Bunshun magazine between 1983 and 1985, this is a work of fiction that heavily incorporates the historical figure. In fact, the entire narrative -- totaling over 1,200 pages in Vertical's most recent edition -- is driven by questions surrounding Hitler's possible Jewish heritage. The gist of the story, however, is devoted to the lives of two other Adolfs, both living in Kobe, Japan: one a German Jew growing up in the East, and the other a half-Japanese son of a Nazi Party official. The two become fast friends, only to have history, and fascist ideology, disrupt that relationship. Another character, a newspaper reporter named Sohei Toge, functions as the binding element of these various storylines, and both Derek and Shea highlight -- and marvel at -- the many moving parts that make up this narrative. This is a massive work that shows Tezuka at the peak of his artistry and storytelling abilities. There may be a lot of Hitler in this month's episode, but in the hands of both Mizuki and Tezuka, it's the kind of Hitler that the Two Guys can definitely stomach. Another month, another healthy dose of manga! For November, Shea and Derek make it a themed episode, one whose binding tie is an unlikely and infamous historical figure. To coincide with the 70th anniversary of the start of the Nuremberg Trials, the guys discuss two masters of manga and their takes on Adolf Hitler. They begin with Shigeru Mizuki's Hitler, released earlier this month from Drawn and Quarterly. Since 2011, the Canadian publisher has been introducing English-speakers to the incredible work of Mizuki, and this most recent translation is of a curious graphic biography originally published in 1971. Mizuki approaches Hitler's life as more of a character-study than as a historical determinant. Over the course of the book's first half, we see a very human, very pathetic -- and very troubled -- Adolf Hitler, a man whose failures far outweigh his triumphs. But both Shea and Derek note that as the text carries us into the 1940s, Mizuki's narrative is more rapid-fire and historically episodic, and the man that we're left with is the failed, unstable dictator most often depicted in popular media. Next, the Two Manga Guys turn to a more epic undertaking, Osamu Tezuka's A Message to Adolf (Vertical). Originally serialized in Shukan Bunshun magazine between 1983 and 1985, this is a work of fiction that heavily incorporates the historical figure. In fact, the entire narrative -- totaling over 1,200 pages in Vertical's most recent edition -- is driven by questions surrounding Hitler's possible Jewish heritage. The gist of the story, however, is devoted to the lives of two other Adolfs, both living in Kobe, Japan: one a German Jew growing up in the East, and the other a half-Japanese son of a Nazi Party official. The two become fast friends, only to have history, and fascist ideology, disrupt that relationship. Another character, a newspaper reporter named Sohei Toge, functions as the binding element of these various storylines, and both Derek and Shea highlight -- and marvel at -- the many moving parts that make up this narrative. This is a massive work that shows Tezuka at the peak of his artistry and storytelling abilities. There may be a lot of Hitler in this month's episode, but in the hands of both Mizuki and Tezuka, it's the kind of Hitler that the Two Guys can definitely stomach.

]]> 5766 no Episode 163 - Our Third Annual Thanksgiving Show http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-163-our-third-annual-thanksgiving-show The guys are back with their third annual Thanksgiving show. This a special episode of The Comics Alternative where Andy, Derek, and other cohosts get together to discuss what they're thankful for in the world of comics and comics culture. This year both Andy W. and Gene are able to join in, so for this special holiday week you get a special episode with extra stuff: Four Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics! Among the various things Gene, Derek, Andy, and Andy are thankful for are small-press publishers (like Kilgore, Uncivilized, Youth in Decline, AdHouse, Conundrum, Koyama, etc) who provide them with material for their podcasts, Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library, who provided us with 17 years of insightful comics analysis (and whose podcast the guys will miss), Fantagraphics and their Complete Peanuts series, the many great projects they're backing on Kickstarter, the relatively new Librarians Assemble! podcast, this year's comics-related museum exhibits, special collections, such as the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum and the Comic Art Collection at Michigan State, as well as the librarians who manage them, Dean Mullaney, Craig Yoe, Chris Staros, and the incredibly helpful folks at IDW Publishing -- Dirk, Rosalind, and Mike -- who go out of their way to keep the guys informed and supplied, Chicago and the comics-related opportunities it provides, creators like Joe Ollmann, Tim Lane, and Seth, who have been very generous with their time this past year and participated in email interviews for the blog, fun Marvel properties, such as Ryan North and Erica Henderson's The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl and the new Jessica Jones series on Netflix, Gwen, Shea, and Sean for helping on the various monthly podcast series, and our Patreon supporters who have helped make 2015 a successful year! Much like the yams with melted marshmallows served during Thanksgiving, this is an episode that you can pass around to friends and loved ones and taking a generous portion and then savoring the smooth, creamy goodness of every bite (byte?). There's plenty to go around. And if you're listening to this podcast in a non-US location, you can appreciate this episode knowing that Thanksgiving is more than just gratuitous Pilgrim references and obscene gluttony; it's also middle-aged guys with advanced degrees sitting around and talking about comic books. Wed, 25 Nov 2015 14:20:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Stewed and Stuffed? The guys are back with their third annual Thanksgiving show. This a special episode of The Comics Alternative where Andy, Derek, and other cohosts get together to discuss what they're thankful for in the world of comics and comics culture. This year both Andy W. and Gene are able to join in, so for this special holiday week you get a special episode with extra stuff: Four Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics! Among the various things Gene, Derek, Andy, and Andy are thankful for are small-press publishers (like Kilgore, Uncivilized, Youth in Decline, AdHouse, Conundrum, Koyama, etc) who provide them with material for their podcasts, Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library, who provided us with 17 years of insightful comics analysis (and whose podcast the guys will miss), Fantagraphics and their Complete Peanuts series, the many great projects they're backing on Kickstarter, the relatively new Librarians Assemble! podcast, this year's comics-related museum exhibits, special collections, such as the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum and the Comic Art Collection at Michigan State, as well as the librarians who manage them, Dean Mullaney, Craig Yoe, Chris Staros, and the incredibly helpful folks at IDW Publishing -- Dirk, Rosalind, and Mike -- who go out of their way to keep the guys informed and supplied, Chicago and the comics-related opportunities it provides, creators like Joe Ollmann, Tim Lane, and Seth, who have been very generous with their time this past year and participated in email interviews for the blog, fun Marvel properties, such as Ryan North and Erica Henderson's The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl and the new Jessica Jones series on Netflix, Gwen, Shea, and Sean for helping on the various monthly podcast series, and our Patreon supporters who have helped make 2015 a successful year! Much like the yams with melted marshmallows served during Thanksgiving, this is an episode that you can pass around to friends and loved ones and taking a generous portion and then savoring the smooth, creamy goodness of every bite (byte?). There's plenty to go around. And if you're listening to this podcast in a non-US location, you can appreciate this episode knowing that Thanksgiving is more than just gratuitous Pilgrim references and obscene gluttony; it's also middle-aged guys with advanced degrees sitting around and talking about comic books. The guys are back with their third annual Thanksgiving show. This a special episode of The Comics Alternative where Andy, Derek, and other cohosts get together to discuss what they're thankful for in the world of comics and comics culture. This year both Andy W. and Gene are able to join in, so for this special holiday week you get a special episode with extra stuff: Four Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics! Among the various things Gene, Derek, Andy, and Andy are thankful for are

  • small-press publishers (like Kilgore, Uncivilized, Youth in Decline, AdHouse, Conundrum, Koyama, etc) who provide them with material for their podcasts,
  • Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library, who provided us with 17 years of insightful comics analysis (and whose podcast the guys will miss),
  • Fantagraphics and their Complete Peanuts series,
  • the many great projects they're backing on Kickstarter,
  • the relatively new Librarians Assemble! podcast,
  • this year's comics-related museum exhibits,
  • special collections, such as the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum and the Comic Art Collection at Michigan State, as well as the librarians who manage them,
  • Dean Mullaney, Craig Yoe, Chris Staros, and the incredibly helpful folks at IDW Publishing -- Dirk, Rosalind, and Mike -- who go out of their way to keep the guys informed and supplied,
  • Chicago and the comics-related opportunities it provides,
  • creators like Joe Ollmann, Tim Lane, and Seth, who have been very generous with their time this past year and participated in email interviews for the blog,
  • fun Marvel properties, such as Ryan North and Erica Henderson's The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl and the new Jessica Jones series on Netflix,
  • Gwen, Shea, and Sean for helping on the various monthly podcast series,
  • and our Patreon supporters who have helped make 2015 a successful year!

Much like the yams with melted marshmallows served during Thanksgiving, this is an episode that you can pass around to friends and loved ones and taking a generous portion and then savoring the smooth, creamy goodness of every bite (byte?). There's plenty to go around. And if you're listening to this podcast in a non-US location, you can appreciate this episode knowing that Thanksgiving is more than just gratuitous Pilgrim references and obscene gluttony; it's also middle-aged guys with advanced degrees sitting around and talking about comic books.

]]> 4349 no Interviews: Christina Merkler http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/comics-alternative-interviews-christina-merkler Over the past three and a half years, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics have interviewed a variety of artists, writers, editors, publishers, educators, and scholars, but in all this time they have not yet interviewed someone from the retail side of comics culture. Until now. In this episode, Derek talks with Christina Merkler, the co-owner of Discount Comic Book Service, one of the largest online retailers of comics (and, in the spirit of full disclosure, an official sponsor of The Comics Alternative). They begin their conversation with a little background history, Christina describing what it was like when her husband, Cameron, came up with the idea for the business and decided to start with an all-online shop. What began as a small Internet-driven service out of their home in 1999 eventually turned into a brick-and-mortar store, multiple online storefronts, and the growing multi-state operation that it has become today. Christina describes how now, with the DCBS remaining in Fort Wayne, IN, and the InStock Trades warehouse being in Memphis, TN, the Merklers feel like they're all over the place and constantly on the go. But they've no plans to rest on their achievements, and instead, are at work on future growth plans. Derek also asks Christina about the competition they've had over the years, the ins and outs of pricing, their relationship with Diamond Comic Distributors, their attempts at getting into the digital comics business, the decisions that go into their monthly specials, and their strategies for good customer relations. In all, his conversation with Christina is a revealing look at the store-front business side of the medium and the many details of how, literally, the books by the creators the guys discuss every week get into the hands of the readers.  After listening to this interview, be sure to head on over to Discount Comic Book Service and InStock Trades. And when you do, please send them an email and tell them that the Two Guys with PhDs sent you! Tue, 24 Nov 2015 14:12:26 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "We're kinda drug dealers" Over the past three and a half years, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics have interviewed a variety of artists, writers, editors, publishers, educators, and scholars, but in all this time they have not yet interviewed someone from the retail side of comics culture. Until now. In this episode, Derek talks with Christina Merkler, the co-owner of Discount Comic Book Service, one of the largest online retailers of comics (and, in the spirit of full disclosure, an official sponsor of The Comics Alternative). They begin their conversation with a little background history, Christina describing what it was like when her husband, Cameron, came up with the idea for the business and decided to start with an all-online shop. What began as a small Internet-driven service out of their home in 1999 eventually turned into a brick-and-mortar store, multiple online storefronts, and the growing multi-state operation that it has become today. Christina describes how now, with the DCBS remaining in Fort Wayne, IN, and the InStock Trades warehouse being in Memphis, TN, the Merklers feel like they're all over the place and constantly on the go. But they've no plans to rest on their achievements, and instead, are at work on future growth plans. Derek also asks Christina about the competition they've had over the years, the ins and outs of pricing, their relationship with Diamond Comic Distributors, their attempts at getting into the digital comics business, the decisions that go into their monthly specials, and their strategies for good customer relations. In all, his conversation with Christina is a revealing look at the store-front business side of the medium and the many details of how, literally, the books by the creators the guys discuss every week get into the hands of the readers.  After listening to this interview, be sure to head on over to Discount Comic Book Service and InStock Trades. And when you do, please send them an email and tell them that the Two Guys with PhDs sent you! Over the past three and a half years, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics have interviewed a variety of artists, writers, editors, publishers, educators, and scholars, but in all this time they have not yet interviewed someone from the retail side of comics culture. Until now. In this episode, Derek talks with Christina Merkler, the co-owner of Discount Comic Book Service, one of the largest online retailers of comics (and, in the spirit of full disclosure, an official sponsor of The Comics Alternative). They begin their conversation with a little background history, Christina describing what it was like when her husband, Cameron, came up with the idea for the business and decided to start with an all-online shop. What began as a small Internet-driven service out of their home in 1999 eventually turned into a brick-and-mortar store, multiple online storefronts, and the growing multi-state operation that it has become today. Christina describes how now, with the DCBS remaining in Fort Wayne, IN, and the InStock Trades warehouse being in Memphis, TN, the Merklers feel like they're all over the place and constantly on the go. But they've no plans to rest on their achievements, and instead, are at work on future growth plans. Derek also asks Christina about the competition they've had over the years, the ins and outs of pricing, their relationship with Diamond Comic Distributors, their attempts at getting into the digital comics business, the decisions that go into their monthly specials, and their strategies for good customer relations. In all, his conversation with Christina is a revealing look at the store-front business side of the medium and the many details of how, literally, the books by the creators the guys discuss every week get into the hands of the readers. 

After listening to this interview, be sure to head on over to Discount Comic Book Service and InStock Trades. And when you do, please send them an email and tell them that the Two Guys with PhDs sent you!

]]> 4693 no Interviews - Joe Keatinge and Nick Barber http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/interviews-joe-keatinge-and-nick-barber On this interview episode, Andy and Derek talk with Joe Keatinge and Nick Barber, the creators behind the new Image series, Ringside. The first issue will be released this week, and so the guys wanted to get the lowdown on what promises to be a fascinating and different title. Joe gets things rolling by laying down the premise of the first narrative arc, introducing us to Danny Knossos, the once-famous wrestler called Minotaur. In classic noir fashion, the protagonist in this first issue returns to the old haunts from his past to help out a friend in trouble, and in doing so inadvertently becomes embroiled in a darker world that he had thought he had put behind him. This is more than a mere wrestling story, Nick and Joe explain. It's a brooding, crime-infused drama that bumps up against the world of professional wrestling. What's more, the series will have an ensemble cast, giving us shifting focal characters and rotating perspectives so as to flesh out a larger and more haunting landscape. The creators also describe how they met one another and how the idea for Ringside came about. They discuss their working relationship, the division of creative labor, and the history behind pitching the story to Image. In fact, Derek and Andy really don't have to do much during this interview. They ask a few questions to get things started, and then Joe and Nick take it from there with their own stories, turning parts of the interview into a personal back-and-forth of a couple of guys catching up. And that's part of The Comics Alternative is all about, isn't it: bringing people together through comics? Mon, 23 Nov 2015 15:34:41 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "A little bit of a crimey-ish angle to it" On this interview episode, Andy and Derek talk with Joe Keatinge and Nick Barber, the creators behind the new Image series, Ringside. The first issue will be released this week, and so the guys wanted to get the lowdown on what promises to be a fascinating and different title. Joe gets things rolling by laying down the premise of the first narrative arc, introducing us to Danny Knossos, the once-famous wrestler called Minotaur. In classic noir fashion, the protagonist in this first issue returns to the old haunts from his past to help out a friend in trouble, and in doing so inadvertently becomes embroiled in a darker world that he had thought he had put behind him. This is more than a mere wrestling story, Nick and Joe explain. It's a brooding, crime-infused drama that bumps up against the world of professional wrestling. What's more, the series will have an ensemble cast, giving us shifting focal characters and rotating perspectives so as to flesh out a larger and more haunting landscape. The creators also describe how they met one another and how the idea for Ringside came about. They discuss their working relationship, the division of creative labor, and the history behind pitching the story to Image. In fact, Derek and Andy really don't have to do much during this interview. They ask a few questions to get things started, and then Joe and Nick take it from there with their own stories, turning parts of the interview into a personal back-and-forth of a couple of guys catching up. And that's part of The Comics Alternative is all about, isn't it: bringing people together through comics? On this interview episode, Andy and Derek talk with Joe Keatinge and Nick Barber, the creators behind the new Image series, Ringside. The first issue will be released this week, and so the guys wanted to get the lowdown on what promises to be a fascinating and different title. Joe gets things rolling by laying down the premise of the first narrative arc, introducing us to Danny Knossos, the once-famous wrestler called Minotaur. In classic noir fashion, the protagonist in this first issue returns to the old haunts from his past to help out a friend in trouble, and in doing so inadvertently becomes embroiled in a darker world that he had thought he had put behind him. This is more than a mere wrestling story, Nick and Joe explain. It's a brooding, crime-infused drama that bumps up against the world of professional wrestling. What's more, the series will have an ensemble cast, giving us shifting focal characters and rotating perspectives so as to flesh out a larger and more haunting landscape. The creators also describe how they met one another and how the idea for Ringside came about. They discuss their working relationship, the division of creative labor, and the history behind pitching the story to Image. In fact, Derek and Andy really don't have to do much during this interview. They ask a few questions to get things started, and then Joe and Nick take it from there with their own stories, turning parts of the interview into a personal back-and-forth of a couple of guys catching up. And that's part of The Comics Alternative is all about, isn't it: bringing people together through comics?

]]> 4418 yes Interviews - Jennifer Hayden http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/interviews-jennifer-hayden Jennifer Hayden comes to The Comics Alternative to talk about her new book, The Story of My Tits, released last month by Top Shelf Productions...just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She discusses with Derek the context surrounding the memoir and, along with that, the story of becoming an artist and comics creator. As Andy and Derek pointed out a couple of weeks ago in their spotlight on Top Shelf, The Story of My Tits much more than a breast cancer survivor narrative. It's a chronicle of Hayden's relationship with her breasts, from childhood and into maturity, and what they meant to her sense of self. At the same time, it's a story of binding relationships and how cancer in many forms had effected her family. These various narrative threads come together to create a deeply personal account of life under the influences of disease, adversity, and self-image. Jennifer also discusses the eight-year journey of writing this memoir, and how along the way she discovered graphic novels, met fellow artists (such as Dean Haspiel), became a contributor to Act-I-Vate, and created a series of other comics such as Underwire and Rushes. In addition, she talks with Derek about her philosophy of storytelling, her style of creating comics (pen-to-paper, only), and the reaction The Story of My Tits has been receiving. Be sure to check out Jennifer's website as well as her blog, Goddess Comix, where you can find the latest updates on what she's up to. Fri, 20 Nov 2015 13:25:15 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "The story is uppermost" Jennifer Hayden comes to The Comics Alternative to talk about her new book, The Story of My Tits, released last month by Top Shelf Productions...just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She discusses with Derek the context surrounding the memoir and, along with that, the story of becoming an artist and comics creator. As Andy and Derek pointed out a couple of weeks ago in their spotlight on Top Shelf, The Story of My Tits much more than a breast cancer survivor narrative. It's a chronicle of Hayden's relationship with her breasts, from childhood and into maturity, and what they meant to her sense of self. At the same time, it's a story of binding relationships and how cancer in many forms had effected her family. These various narrative threads come together to create a deeply personal account of life under the influences of disease, adversity, and self-image. Jennifer also discusses the eight-year journey of writing this memoir, and how along the way she discovered graphic novels, met fellow artists (such as Dean Haspiel), became a contributor to Act-I-Vate, and created a series of other comics such as Underwire and Rushes. In addition, she talks with Derek about her philosophy of storytelling, her style of creating comics (pen-to-paper, only), and the reaction The Story of My Tits has been receiving. Be sure to check out Jennifer's website as well as her blog, Goddess Comix, where you can find the latest updates on what she's up to. Jennifer Hayden comes to The Comics Alternative to talk about her new book, The Story of My Tits, released last month by Top Shelf Productions...just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She discusses with Derek the context surrounding the memoir and, along with that, the story of becoming an artist and comics creator. As Andy and Derek pointed out a couple of weeks ago in their spotlight on Top Shelf, The Story of My Tits much more than a breast cancer survivor narrative. It's a chronicle of Hayden's relationship with her breasts, from childhood and into maturity, and what they meant to her sense of self. At the same time, it's a story of binding relationships and how cancer in many forms had effected her family. These various narrative threads come together to create a deeply personal account of life under the influences of disease, adversity, and self-image. Jennifer also discusses the eight-year journey of writing this memoir, and how along the way she discovered graphic novels, met fellow artists (such as Dean Haspiel), became a contributor to Act-I-Vate, and created a series of other comics such as Underwire and Rushes. In addition, she talks with Derek about her philosophy of storytelling, her style of creating comics (pen-to-paper, only), and the reaction The Story of My Tits has been receiving.

Be sure to check out Jennifer's website as well as her blog, Goddess Comix, where you can find the latest updates on what she's up to.

]]> 4029 no Episode 162 - Reviews of Six Recent #1 Issues http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-162-reviews-of-six-recent-1-issues For the past several weeks the Two Guys with PhDs have been looking mostly at book-length works, trades, original graphic novels, and archival collections. This week, Andy W. and Derek thought that they'd catch up with their single-comic-book-issue reading by focusing on six recent #1 titles: Paper Girls - Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang (Image Comics) Monstress - Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image Comics) The Goddamned - Jason Aaron and R. M. Guéra (Image Comics) Klaus - Grant  Morrison and Dan Mora (BOOM! Studios) Snow Blind - Ollie Masters and Tyler Jenkins (BOOM! Studios) James Bond - Warren Ellis and Jason Masters (Dynamite Entertainment) The guys note that there's an embarrassment of riches to choose from, as there have been many recent first issues from some powerhouse creators, including Brian K. Vaughan, Jason Aaron, Grant Morrison, and Warren Ellis. For the most part, each of the titles from these writers is a home run, although Andy is not quite impressed with Klaus, feeling that it's a little too formulaic. The guys also note that The Goddamned isn't for those with Puritanical sensibilities, James Bond breaks free of the property's Hollywood shackles, and Paper Girls visits the 1980s in a fun and non-stereotypical way. (Plus, Derek is glad that there are no Goonies references anywhere to be found.) Snow Blind is a great first issue, as well, setting up what promises to be an intelligent four-issue crime/noir miniseries...although given the potential in this inaugural issue, this story seems that it could go on for more than four installments. And both Andy and Derek are bowled away by Liu and Takeda's Monstress. Not only is the storytelling sophisticated, intricate, and intelligently populated, but there is over sixty pages of story in this first issue. The guys are used to oversized #1 issues from Image -- in fact, they're getting spoiled by them -- but the amount of material in this comic goes above and beyond! Finally, the guys wrap up my commenting briefly on some of the other recent #1 issues that they could have included in this episode, such as Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott's Black Magick (Image Comics); Garth Ennis and Keith Burns's Johnny Red (Titan Comics); Mike Mignola, Christopher Golden, and Patric Reynolds's Joe Golem: Occult Detective (Dark Horse Comics); and Sam Humphries and Tommy Patterson's Citizen Jack (Image Comics). Again, an embarrassment of riches. Wed, 18 Nov 2015 13:04:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "There's a lot of liquid and goo in this first issue" For the past several weeks the Two Guys with PhDs have been looking mostly at book-length works, trades, original graphic novels, and archival collections. This week, Andy W. and Derek thought that they'd catch up with their single-comic-book-issue reading by focusing on six recent #1 titles: Paper Girls - Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang (Image Comics) Monstress - Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image Comics) The Goddamned - Jason Aaron and R. M. Guéra (Image Comics) Klaus - Grant  Morrison and Dan Mora (BOOM! Studios) Snow Blind - Ollie Masters and Tyler Jenkins (BOOM! Studios) James Bond - Warren Ellis and Jason Masters (Dynamite Entertainment) The guys note that there's an embarrassment of riches to choose from, as there have been many recent first issues from some powerhouse creators, including Brian K. Vaughan, Jason Aaron, Grant Morrison, and Warren Ellis. For the most part, each of the titles from these writers is a home run, although Andy is not quite impressed with Klaus, feeling that it's a little too formulaic. The guys also note that The Goddamned isn't for those with Puritanical sensibilities, James Bond breaks free of the property's Hollywood shackles, and Paper Girls visits the 1980s in a fun and non-stereotypical way. (Plus, Derek is glad that there are no Goonies references anywhere to be found.) Snow Blind is a great first issue, as well, setting up what promises to be an intelligent four-issue crime/noir miniseries...although given the potential in this inaugural issue, this story seems that it could go on for more than four installments. And both Andy and Derek are bowled away by Liu and Takeda's Monstress. Not only is the storytelling sophisticated, intricate, and intelligently populated, but there is over sixty pages of story in this first issue. The guys are used to oversized #1 issues from Image -- in fact, they're getting spoiled by them -- but the amount of material in this comic goes above and beyond! Finally, the guys wrap up my commenting briefly on some of the other recent #1 issues that they could have included in this episode, such as Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott's Black Magick (Image Comics); Garth Ennis and Keith Burns's Johnny Red (Titan Comics); Mike Mignola, Christopher Golden, and Patric Reynolds's Joe Golem: Occult Detective (Dark Horse Comics); and Sam Humphries and Tommy Patterson's Citizen Jack (Image Comics). Again, an embarrassment of riches. For the past several weeks the Two Guys with PhDs have been looking mostly at book-length works, trades, original graphic novels, and archival collections. This week, Andy W. and Derek thought that they'd catch up with their single-comic-book-issue reading by focusing on six recent #1 titles:

  • Paper Girls - Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang (Image Comics)
  • Monstress - Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda (Image Comics)
  • The Goddamned - Jason Aaron and R. M. Guéra (Image Comics)
  • Klaus - Grant  Morrison and Dan Mora (BOOM! Studios)
  • Snow Blind - Ollie Masters and Tyler Jenkins (BOOM! Studios)
  • James Bond - Warren Ellis and Jason Masters (Dynamite Entertainment)

The guys note that there's an embarrassment of riches to choose from, as there have been many recent first issues from some powerhouse creators, including Brian K. Vaughan, Jason Aaron, Grant Morrison, and Warren Ellis. For the most part, each of the titles from these writers is a home run, although Andy is not quite impressed with Klaus, feeling that it's a little too formulaic. The guys also note that The Goddamned isn't for those with Puritanical sensibilities, James Bond breaks free of the property's Hollywood shackles, and Paper Girls visits the 1980s in a fun and non-stereotypical way. (Plus, Derek is glad that there are no Goonies references anywhere to be found.) Snow Blind is a great first issue, as well, setting up what promises to be an intelligent four-issue crime/noir miniseries...although given the potential in this inaugural issue, this story seems that it could go on for more than four installments. And both Andy and Derek are bowled away by Liu and Takeda's Monstress. Not only is the storytelling sophisticated, intricate, and intelligently populated, but there is over sixty pages of story in this first issue. The guys are used to oversized #1 issues from Image -- in fact, they're getting spoiled by them -- but the amount of material in this comic goes above and beyond! Finally, the guys wrap up my commenting briefly on some of the other recent #1 issues that they could have included in this episode, such as Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott's Black Magick (Image Comics); Garth Ennis and Keith Burns's Johnny Red (Titan Comics); Mike Mignola, Christopher Golden, and Patric Reynolds's Joe Golem: Occult Detective (Dark Horse Comics); and Sam Humphries and Tommy Patterson's Citizen Jack (Image Comics). Again, an embarrassment of riches.

]]> 7000 no Interviews - Meags Fitzgerald http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/interviews-meags-fitzgerald While at the Small Press Expo in September, Derek had the pleasure of meeting Meags Fitzgerald, whose new book, Long Red Hair: A Graphic Memoir, had just been released from Conundrum Press. At the time he spoke with her briefly for the podcast, but now Meags returns for a more in-depth discussion. They begin with an overview of her new book and the significance of its title. Long Red Hair is an artist's story of growing up, finding your place, and defining yourself by the differences that you come to embrace. Highlighting important moments between 1992 and 2015, Meags traces the trajectory of a life in process. It is time when sleepovers, witchcraft, Dungeons and Dragons, gender questions, vegetarianism, and movies like Beetlejuice and Buffy the Vampire Slayer have deep meaning for  her. Behind it all is a supportive family that allows Meags the freedom to discover who she might want to be. And part of her identity is linked to photobooths, the subject of her previous book that came out last year. Meags also talks with Derek about her work on Photobooth: A Biography (Conundrum Press) and what this almost archaic process -- even art form -- has come to mean to her. In particular, they discuss the significance of this phenomenon, a source of selfies and "social networking" before the advent of the Internet, social networking sites, and the proliferation of smart phones. Along the way, Derek and Meags also discuss her work in graphic design and her passion for improv comedy and live storytelling. Mon, 16 Nov 2015 13:34:03 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Well Red While at the Small Press Expo in September, Derek had the pleasure of meeting Meags Fitzgerald, whose new book, Long Red Hair: A Graphic Memoir, had just been released from Conundrum Press. At the time he spoke with her briefly for the podcast, but now Meags returns for a more in-depth discussion. They begin with an overview of her new book and the significance of its title. Long Red Hair is an artist's story of growing up, finding your place, and defining yourself by the differences that you come to embrace. Highlighting important moments between 1992 and 2015, Meags traces the trajectory of a life in process. It is time when sleepovers, witchcraft, Dungeons and Dragons, gender questions, vegetarianism, and movies like Beetlejuice and Buffy the Vampire Slayer have deep meaning for  her. Behind it all is a supportive family that allows Meags the freedom to discover who she might want to be. And part of her identity is linked to photobooths, the subject of her previous book that came out last year. Meags also talks with Derek about her work on Photobooth: A Biography (Conundrum Press) and what this almost archaic process -- even art form -- has come to mean to her. In particular, they discuss the significance of this phenomenon, a source of selfies and "social networking" before the advent of the Internet, social networking sites, and the proliferation of smart phones. Along the way, Derek and Meags also discuss her work in graphic design and her passion for improv comedy and live storytelling. While at the Small Press Expo in September, Derek had the pleasure of meeting Meags Fitzgerald, whose new book, Long Red Hair: A Graphic Memoir, had just been released from Conundrum Press. At the time he spoke with her briefly for the podcast, but now Meags returns for a more in-depth discussion. They begin with an overview of her new book and the significance of its title. Long Red Hair is an artist's story of growing up, finding your place, and defining yourself by the differences that you come to embrace. Highlighting important moments between 1992 and 2015, Meags traces the trajectory of a life in process. It is time when sleepovers, witchcraft, Dungeons and Dragons, gender questions, vegetarianism, and movies like Beetlejuice and Buffy the Vampire Slayer have deep meaning for  her. Behind it all is a supportive family that allows Meags the freedom to discover who she might want to be. And part of her identity is linked to photobooths, the subject of her previous book that came out last year. Meags also talks with Derek about her work on Photobooth: A Biography (Conundrum Press) and what this almost archaic process -- even art form -- has come to mean to her. In particular, they discuss the significance of this phenomenon, a source of selfies and "social networking" before the advent of the Internet, social networking sites, and the proliferation of smart phones. Along the way, Derek and Meags also discuss her work in graphic design and her passion for improv comedy and live storytelling.

]]> 3712 no Webcomics - Reviews of Stonebreaker, The Hues, and Run Freak Run http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-stonebreaker-the-hues-and-run-freak-run Sean and Derek are back with their monthly pickings of webcomics goodness, and for November they have some great recommendations lined up. They begin by focusing on Peter Wartman's Stonebreaker, a fantasy adventure narrative with a strong potential for world-building. This is the sequel to the artist's earlier work, Over the Wall, which was also published in hardcopy by Uncivilized Books in 2013. The guys marvel at Wartman's handling of his narrative premise -- this webcomic is only in its second chapter -- and his abilities to subtly allude without confusing or distancing his readers. They're also blown away by his art, which is some of the best they've seen in recent webcomics. Next, the Two Guys move on to The Hues, Alex Heberling's post-apocalyptic tale of teenage adventure. Her protagonists are a diverse band of girls who discover that they each have a special power or magical ability. The complication, however, is that they make their discoveries right around the time that an alien force invades Earth. Sean likens this to a mashup of superpower stories and manga, while Derek can't help but think of the X-Men. Both The Hues and Stonebreaker are currently ongoing, each of which seems what it will be around for the long haul. An already-completed webcomic is the third in the guys' lineup. Silver Saaremaeel and Kaija Rudkiewicz's Run Freak Run is, as its website describes, a "gothic alternative history comic with dark subject matters and romantic undertones. It includes swearing, slight nudity, violence, and lots of sarcasm." That basically sums it up. When the guys aren't fumbling over the creators' names -- and a special apology goes out to Kaija Rudkiewicz, whose name takes the worse beating -- they are highlighting the evolution of this webcomic. What begins in its first chapters as an episode narrative turns into a more interconnected long-form work. And both Derek and Sean are particularly drawn to Rudkiewicz's art, which is perfect for its dark tone and reminds them somewhat of Mike Mignola's work. If you're not already doing so, be sure to check out this month's webcomics recommendations, and then report back here next month for another dose. Fri, 13 Nov 2015 17:01:40 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “It all comes down to pacing” Sean and Derek are back with their monthly pickings of webcomics goodness, and for November they have some great recommendations lined up. They begin by focusing on Peter Wartman's Stonebreaker, a fantasy adventure narrative with a strong potential for world-building. This is the sequel to the artist's earlier work, Over the Wall, which was also published in hardcopy by Uncivilized Books in 2013. The guys marvel at Wartman's handling of his narrative premise -- this webcomic is only in its second chapter -- and his abilities to subtly allude without confusing or distancing his readers. They're also blown away by his art, which is some of the best they've seen in recent webcomics. Next, the Two Guys move on to The Hues, Alex Heberling's post-apocalyptic tale of teenage adventure. Her protagonists are a diverse band of girls who discover that they each have a special power or magical ability. The complication, however, is that they make their discoveries right around the time that an alien force invades Earth. Sean likens this to a mashup of superpower stories and manga, while Derek can't help but think of the X-Men. Both The Hues and Stonebreaker are currently ongoing, each of which seems what it will be around for the long haul. An already-completed webcomic is the third in the guys' lineup. Silver Saaremaeel and Kaija Rudkiewicz's Run Freak Run is, as its website describes, a "gothic alternative history comic with dark subject matters and romantic undertones. It includes swearing, slight nudity, violence, and lots of sarcasm." That basically sums it up. When the guys aren't fumbling over the creators' names -- and a special apology goes out to Kaija Rudkiewicz, whose name takes the worse beating -- they are highlighting the evolution of this webcomic. What begins in its first chapters as an episode narrative turns into a more interconnected long-form work. And both Derek and Sean are particularly drawn to Rudkiewicz's art, which is perfect for its dark tone and reminds them somewhat of Mike Mignola's work. If you're not already doing so, be sure to check out this month's webcomics recommendations, and then report back here next month for another dose. Sean and Derek are back with their monthly pickings of webcomics goodness, and for November they have some great recommendations lined up. They begin by focusing on Peter Wartman's Stonebreaker, a fantasy adventure narrative with a strong potential for world-building. This is the sequel to the artist's earlier work, Over the Wall, which was also published in hardcopy by Uncivilized Books in 2013. The guys marvel at Wartman's handling of his narrative premise -- this webcomic is only in its second chapter -- and his abilities to subtly allude without confusing or distancing his readers. They're also blown away by his art, which is some of the best they've seen in recent webcomics. Next, the Two Guys move on to The Hues, Alex Heberling's post-apocalyptic tale of teenage adventure. Her protagonists are a diverse band of girls who discover that they each have a special power or magical ability. The complication, however, is that they make their discoveries right around the time that an alien force invades Earth. Sean likens this to a mashup of superpower stories and manga, while Derek can't help but think of the X-Men. Both The Hues and Stonebreaker are currently ongoing, each of which seems what it will be around for the long haul. An already-completed webcomic is the third in the guys' lineup. Silver Saaremaeel and Kaija Rudkiewicz's Run Freak Run is, as its website describes, a "gothic alternative history comic with dark subject matters and romantic undertones. It includes swearing, slight nudity, violence, and lots of sarcasm." That basically sums it up. When the guys aren't fumbling over the creators' names -- and a special apology goes out to Kaija Rudkiewicz, whose name takes the worse beating -- they are highlighting the evolution of this webcomic. What begins in its first chapters as an episode narrative turns into a more interconnected long-form work. And both Derek and Sean are particularly drawn to Rudkiewicz's art, which is perfect for its dark tone and reminds them somewhat of Mike Mignola's work. If you're not already doing so, be sure to check out this month's webcomics recommendations, and then report back here next month for another dose.

]]> 5194 no Interviews - Sophie Goldstein http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/interviews-sophie-goldstein On this episode, Derek is happy to have as his guest Sophie Goldstein. Her latest book, House of Women, Part II, came out in September, and her other book from this year, The Oven, was just listed by Publisher Weekly as one of the five best comics of the year. Indeed, 2015 has been fruitful time for the young red-headed creator. Regular listeners of the podcast will know that this isn't the first time that Sophie has been on the show. She spoke with Derek twice before at two different events, while at HeroesCon back in June and more recently at the Small Press Expo. This time, however, there isn't the hubbub and distractions of the crowd, and the two have a more focused and leisurely conversation. Derek asks Sophie about all of the attention that her work has been getting -- in addition to the Publishers Weekly selection, she's won three Ignatz Awards over the past two years, and her story "The Good Wife" was included in Best American Comics 2013 -- and if this recognition has brought any new challenges. She shares how her work has evolved since graduating from the Center for Cartoon Studies in 2013 and the opportunities available for independent, free-lancing artists. But most of the conversation is devoted to Sophie's actual work, including The Oven (published by AdHouse), her recent contribution to Chris Duffy's Fable Comics (First Second), the webcomic Darwin Carmichael Is Going to Hell (coauthored with Jenn Jordan), and the first two volumes of her self-published longer narrative, House of Women. Indeed, Derek asks Sophie not only about the composition of the latter, but also about her hand-crafted books as art objects. They also discuss her contributions to a variety of anthologies and collections, including The Pitchfork Review, Maple Key Comics, Irene, Symbolia, The Nib, Dog City, and Sleep of Reason. Find out more about Sophie's work by visiting her website, Red Ink Radio! Thu, 12 Nov 2015 13:56:44 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Red Is the Color On this episode, Derek is happy to have as his guest Sophie Goldstein. Her latest book, House of Women, Part II, came out in September, and her other book from this year, The Oven, was just listed by Publisher Weekly as one of the five best comics of the year. Indeed, 2015 has been fruitful time for the young red-headed creator. Regular listeners of the podcast will know that this isn't the first time that Sophie has been on the show. She spoke with Derek twice before at two different events, while at HeroesCon back in June and more recently at the Small Press Expo. This time, however, there isn't the hubbub and distractions of the crowd, and the two have a more focused and leisurely conversation. Derek asks Sophie about all of the attention that her work has been getting -- in addition to the Publishers Weekly selection, she's won three Ignatz Awards over the past two years, and her story "The Good Wife" was included in Best American Comics 2013 -- and if this recognition has brought any new challenges. She shares how her work has evolved since graduating from the Center for Cartoon Studies in 2013 and the opportunities available for independent, free-lancing artists. But most of the conversation is devoted to Sophie's actual work, including The Oven (published by AdHouse), her recent contribution to Chris Duffy's Fable Comics (First Second), the webcomic Darwin Carmichael Is Going to Hell (coauthored with Jenn Jordan), and the first two volumes of her self-published longer narrative, House of Women. Indeed, Derek asks Sophie not only about the composition of the latter, but also about her hand-crafted books as art objects. They also discuss her contributions to a variety of anthologies and collections, including The Pitchfork Review, Maple Key Comics, Irene, Symbolia, The Nib, Dog City, and Sleep of Reason. Find out more about Sophie's work by visiting her website, Red Ink Radio! On this episode, Derek is happy to have as his guest Sophie Goldstein. Her latest book, House of Women, Part II, came out in September, and her other book from this year, The Oven, was just listed by Publisher Weekly as one of the five best comics of the year. Indeed, 2015 has been fruitful time for the young red-headed creator. Regular listeners of the podcast will know that this isn't the first time that Sophie has been on the show. She spoke with Derek twice before at two different events, while at HeroesCon back in June and more recently at the Small Press Expo. This time, however, there isn't the hubbub and distractions of the crowd, and the two have a more focused and leisurely conversation. Derek asks Sophie about all of the attention that her work has been getting -- in addition to the Publishers Weekly selection, she's won three Ignatz Awards over the past two years, and her story "The Good Wife" was included in Best American Comics 2013 -- and if this recognition has brought any new challenges. She shares how her work has evolved since graduating from the Center for Cartoon Studies in 2013 and the opportunities available for independent, free-lancing artists. But most of the conversation is devoted to Sophie's actual work, including The Oven (published by AdHouse), her recent contribution to Chris Duffy's Fable Comics (First Second), the webcomic Darwin Carmichael Is Going to Hell (coauthored with Jenn Jordan), and the first two volumes of her self-published longer narrative, House of Women. Indeed, Derek asks Sophie not only about the composition of the latter, but also about her hand-crafted books as art objects. They also discuss her contributions to a variety of anthologies and collections, including The Pitchfork Review, Maple Key Comics, Irene, Symbolia, The Nib, Dog City, and Sleep of Reason.

Find out more about Sophie's work by visiting her website, Red Ink Radio!

]]> 4726 no Episode 161 - A Publisher Spotlight on Top Shelf Productions http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-161-a-publisher-spotlight-on-top-shelf-productions Can it be true? Are the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics actually doing yet another publisher spotlight? Are they gluttons for punishment? Are their eyeballs going to fall out from all of the reading? Maybe so, but if their orbs do drop out of their heads, they'll do so while gazing at some of the great books coming out of Top Shelf Productions. In this episode, you'll hear Andy and Derek talking about the publisher's summer and fall releases, including: Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1, by Eddie Campbell Motorcycle Samurai, Vol. 1: A Fiery Demise, by Chris Sheridan Tim Ginger, by Julian Hanshaw The Story of My Tits, by Jennifer Hayden Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, adapted by Troy Little Junction True, by Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke Before they get into the titles themselves, Derek shares a brief interview he conducted with Chris Staros, the publisher of Top Shelf. They talk about the origins of Top Shelf, the authors who have helped define their line, and their recent acquisition by IDW Publishing. Then, it's on to the books! The guys begin with a discussion of Eddie Campbell's Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1. This is the first of two behemoth books collecting all of Campbell's Bacchus stories, complete with the titular god of wine and revelry, Joe Theseus, Hermes, the Stygian Leech, and the guys' favorite, the Eyeball Kid. After that, Derek and Andy revisit a comic that they first discussed almost two years ago, Chris Sheridan's Motorcycle Samurai. Back in January of 2014, they looked at the first two issues of the digital series, but this time they focus on the first completed narrative arc. The guys point out some of the differences between the two versions, digital and hardcopy, while at the same time highlighting many of he strengths in Sheridan's storytelling. The next book they cover, Julian Hanshaw's Tim Ginger, turns out to be one of their favorite books of the year. Both Andy and Derek point out the ambitiousness of this narrative, both thematically and visually, especially given the book's compressed format. Indeed, Andy wonders if perhaps there was too much that Hanshaw was attempting to take on. Jennifer Hayden's The Story of My Tits is where they go after that. This is an autobiographic tale of the author's bout with breast cancer. But the book is much more than a personal cancer narrative. It is also Hayden's account of her important life relationships, both with her loved ones and with her breasts as they relate to self-image. Next, the Two Guys turn to a completely different kind of book, Troy Little's adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Like the original, this is a wild ride, and Little's composition brings out the surreal and even frightening quality of Thompson's narrative. The guys note that Little does what Ralph Steadman does in his illustrations for the 1972 book, without being derivative in any way, and that this is a more approachable version that Terry Gilliam's 1998 film. Finally, the guys wrap up with a book that is not yet out but will soon be, Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke's Junction True. This is a disturbing science fiction tale that doesn't seem that unrealistic at all. In fact, its thematic focus on body enhancement and media exhibitionism is not too far from the culture in which we currently reside. One could even read Junction True metaphorically as a cautionary tale...or one of contemporary gothic horror. Wed, 11 Nov 2015 12:04:14 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Marvel at the Naked Spine! Can it be true? Are the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics actually doing yet another publisher spotlight? Are they gluttons for punishment? Are their eyeballs going to fall out from all of the reading? Maybe so, but if their orbs do drop out of their heads, they'll do so while gazing at some of the great books coming out of Top Shelf Productions. In this episode, you'll hear Andy and Derek talking about the publisher's summer and fall releases, including: Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1, by Eddie Campbell Motorcycle Samurai, Vol. 1: A Fiery Demise, by Chris Sheridan Tim Ginger, by Julian Hanshaw The Story of My Tits, by Jennifer Hayden Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, adapted by Troy Little Junction True, by Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke Before they get into the titles themselves, Derek shares a brief interview he conducted with Chris Staros, the publisher of Top Shelf. They talk about the origins of Top Shelf, the authors who have helped define their line, and their recent acquisition by IDW Publishing. Then, it's on to the books! The guys begin with a discussion of Eddie Campbell's Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1. This is the first of two behemoth books collecting all of Campbell's Bacchus stories, complete with the titular god of wine and revelry, Joe Theseus, Hermes, the Stygian Leech, and the guys' favorite, the Eyeball Kid. After that, Derek and Andy revisit a comic that they first discussed almost two years ago, Chris Sheridan's Motorcycle Samurai. Back in January of 2014, they looked at the first two issues of the digital series, but this time they focus on the first completed narrative arc. The guys point out some of the differences between the two versions, digital and hardcopy, while at the same time highlighting many of he strengths in Sheridan's storytelling. The next book they cover, Julian Hanshaw's Tim Ginger, turns out to be one of their favorite books of the year. Both Andy and Derek point out the ambitiousness of this narrative, both thematically and visually, especially given the book's compressed format. Indeed, Andy wonders if perhaps there was too much that Hanshaw was attempting to take on. Jennifer Hayden's The Story of My Tits is where they go after that. This is an autobiographic tale of the author's bout with breast cancer. But the book is much more than a personal cancer narrative. It is also Hayden's account of her important life relationships, both with her loved ones and with her breasts as they relate to self-image. Next, the Two Guys turn to a completely different kind of book, Troy Little's adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Like the original, this is a wild ride, and Little's composition brings out the surreal and even frightening quality of Thompson's narrative. The guys note that Little does what Ralph Steadman does in his illustrations for the 1972 book, without being derivative in any way, and that this is a more approachable version that Terry Gilliam's 1998 film. Finally, the guys wrap up with a book that is not yet out but will soon be, Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke's Junction True. This is a disturbing science fiction tale that doesn't seem that unrealistic at all. In fact, its thematic focus on body enhancement and media exhibitionism is not too far from the culture in which we currently reside. One could even read Junction True metaphorically as a cautionary tale...or one of contemporary gothic horror. Can it be true? Are the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics actually doing yet another publisher spotlight? Are they gluttons for punishment? Are their eyeballs going to fall out from all of the reading? Maybe so, but if their orbs do drop out of their heads, they'll do so while gazing at some of the great books coming out of Top Shelf Productions. In this episode, you'll hear Andy and Derek talking about the publisher's summer and fall releases, including:

Before they get into the titles themselves, Derek shares a brief interview he conducted with Chris Staros, the publisher of Top Shelf. They talk about the origins of Top Shelf, the authors who have helped define their line, and their recent acquisition by IDW Publishing. Then, it's on to the books! The guys begin with a discussion of Eddie Campbell's Bacchus Omnibus, Vol. 1. This is the first of two behemoth books collecting all of Campbell's Bacchus stories, complete with the titular god of wine and revelry, Joe Theseus, Hermes, the Stygian Leech, and the guys' favorite, the Eyeball Kid. After that, Derek and Andy revisit a comic that they first discussed almost two years ago, Chris Sheridan's Motorcycle Samurai. Back in January of 2014, they looked at the first two issues of the digital series, but this time they focus on the first completed narrative arc. The guys point out some of the differences between the two versions, digital and hardcopy, while at the same time highlighting many of he strengths in Sheridan's storytelling. The next book they cover, Julian Hanshaw's Tim Ginger, turns out to be one of their favorite books of the year. Both Andy and Derek point out the ambitiousness of this narrative, both thematically and visually, especially given the book's compressed format. Indeed, Andy wonders if perhaps there was too much that Hanshaw was attempting to take on. Jennifer Hayden's The Story of My Tits is where they go after that. This is an autobiographic tale of the author's bout with breast cancer. But the book is much more than a personal cancer narrative. It is also Hayden's account of her important life relationships, both with her loved ones and with her breasts as they relate to self-image. Next, the Two Guys turn to a completely different kind of book, Troy Little's adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Like the original, this is a wild ride, and Little's composition brings out the surreal and even frightening quality of Thompson's narrative. The guys note that Little does what Ralph Steadman does in his illustrations for the 1972 book, without being derivative in any way, and that this is a more approachable version that Terry Gilliam's 1998 film. Finally, the guys wrap up with a book that is not yet out but will soon be, Ray Fawkes and Vince Locke's Junction True. This is a disturbing science fiction tale that doesn't seem that unrealistic at all. In fact, its thematic focus on body enhancement and media exhibitionism is not too far from the culture in which we currently reside. One could even read Junction True metaphorically as a cautionary tale...or one of contemporary gothic horror.

]]> 8678 no Young Readers - Reviews of Monster and Hereville: How Mirka Caught a Fish http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/young-readers-reviews-of-monster-and-hereville-how-mirka-caught-a-fish Gwen and Andy are back this month to discuss two new graphic novels for young readers. First up, they discuss Monster  (Amistad/Harper Collins), a book for teens by Walter Dean Myers, adapted by Guy A. Sims and with art by Dawud Anyabwile. Based on the multi-award-winning young adult novel by Myers, the graphic novel version of Monster chronicles the tension-filled trial of Steve Harmon, a African American teen being tried as an accessory to the murder of a convenience store clerk. Gwen and Andy both agree that Anyabwile’s stunning black-and-white art delivers a powerfully effective treatment of this famous novel and in some ways enhances an already stunning look at how society looks at race and identity. Next, the two people with PhDs look at a book for younger readers, Barry Deutsch's Hereville: How Mirka Caught a Fish (Amulet/Abrams). If the title sounds familiar, that's because How Mirka Caught a Fish is actually the third book in the Hereville series, following How Mirka Got Her Sword and How Mirka Met a Meteorite. But no worries! Gwen and Andy give you just enough info about the first two books to bring you up to speed without giving away any major spoilers. Mirka is an 11-year-old orthodox Jewish girl who has adventures fighting trolls, encountering meteors, and even time-traveling, and as much as Gwen and Andy like the first two volumes, they think this third may be the best of the bunch. And while Monster and the Hereville books may appear to be vastly different, Gwen and Andy find that they share some interesting similarities. As an added bonus, Gwen and Andy also discuss four additional current titles that listeners will want to check out. (But you’ll have to listen to the podcast to find out what those books are!) Mon, 09 Nov 2015 12:02:12 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Young Identities Gwen and Andy are back this month to discuss two new graphic novels for young readers. First up, they discuss Monster  (Amistad/Harper Collins), a book for teens by Walter Dean Myers, adapted by Guy A. Sims and with art by Dawud Anyabwile. Based on the multi-award-winning young adult novel by Myers, the graphic novel version of Monster chronicles the tension-filled trial of Steve Harmon, a African American teen being tried as an accessory to the murder of a convenience store clerk. Gwen and Andy both agree that Anyabwile’s stunning black-and-white art delivers a powerfully effective treatment of this famous novel and in some ways enhances an already stunning look at how society looks at race and identity. Next, the two people with PhDs look at a book for younger readers, Barry Deutsch's Hereville: How Mirka Caught a Fish (Amulet/Abrams). If the title sounds familiar, that's because How Mirka Caught a Fish is actually the third book in the Hereville series, following How Mirka Got Her Sword and How Mirka Met a Meteorite. But no worries! Gwen and Andy give you just enough info about the first two books to bring you up to speed without giving away any major spoilers. Mirka is an 11-year-old orthodox Jewish girl who has adventures fighting trolls, encountering meteors, and even time-traveling, and as much as Gwen and Andy like the first two volumes, they think this third may be the best of the bunch. And while Monster and the Hereville books may appear to be vastly different, Gwen and Andy find that they share some interesting similarities. As an added bonus, Gwen and Andy also discuss four additional current titles that listeners will want to check out. (But you’ll have to listen to the podcast to find out what those books are!) Gwen and Andy are back this month to discuss two new graphic novels for young readers. First up, they discuss Monster  (Amistad/Harper Collins), a book for teens by Walter Dean Myers, adapted by Guy A. Sims and with art by Dawud Anyabwile. Based on the multi-award-winning young adult novel by Myers, the graphic novel version of Monster chronicles the tension-filled trial of Steve Harmon, a African American teen being tried as an accessory to the murder of a convenience store clerk. Gwen and Andy both agree that Anyabwile’s stunning black-and-white art delivers a powerfully effective treatment of this famous novel and in some ways enhances an already stunning look at how society looks at race and identity. Next, the two people with PhDs look at a book for younger readers, Barry Deutsch's Hereville: How Mirka Caught a Fish (Amulet/Abrams). If the title sounds familiar, that's because How Mirka Caught a Fish is actually the third book in the Hereville series, following How Mirka Got Her Sword and How Mirka Met a Meteorite. But no worries! Gwen and Andy give you just enough info about the first two books to bring you up to speed without giving away any major spoilers. Mirka is an 11-year-old orthodox Jewish girl who has adventures fighting trolls, encountering meteors, and even time-traveling, and as much as Gwen and Andy like the first two volumes, they think this third may be the best of the bunch. And while Monster and the Hereville books may appear to be vastly different, Gwen and Andy find that they share some interesting similarities.

As an added bonus, Gwen and Andy also discuss four additional current titles that listeners will want to check out. (But you’ll have to listen to the podcast to find out what those books are!)

]]> 4316 no Episode 160 - The November Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-160-the-november-previews-catalog It's the first week of November, and that means it must be time for Andy and Derek to go through the month's Previews catalog. As you may expect, there's a lot packed into the issue, and after a few words on Halloween and listener mail, they get right to the solicitations. Among the many upcoming releases they discuss on this month's Previews show are titles from Dark Horse Comics - Space-Mullet!: One Gamble at a Time and Snow Angel DC/Vertigo - Constantine, The Hellblazer: Vol. 1 and Egypt IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Amazing Forest #1, Gutter Magic #1, Comic Book Apocalypse: The Graphic World of Jack Kirby, and Renée Image Comics - Cry Havoc #1, Pencil Head #1, Nowhere Men #1, and Nameless HC Action Lab Entertainment - The Cask of Amontillado AfterShock Comics - American Monster #1 and Strayer #1 Bergen Street Press - Copra: Round Three Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Ikebana BOOM! Studios - The Last Contract #1 and Curb Stomp TP Canton Street Press - facsimile editions of Race for the Moon and Teen-Age Romances #14 Dynamite Entertainment - Devolution #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Beverly and The Envelope Manufacturer Fantagraphics Books - Comics Dementia, Nod Away, and The High Cost of Dying and Other Stories Hero Tomorrow Comics - Apama: The Undiscovered Animal, Vol. 1 Humanoids - The Swords of Glass and The Tipping Point NBM - Cruising through the Louvre No Press - Graveyard Quest St. Martin's Press - Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir Titan Comics - a new translation of The Nikopol Trilogy Vertical Comics - A Girl on the Shore Viz Media - One-Punch Man, Vol. 4and Monster: The Perfect Edition, Vol. 7 Also in this episode: the Two Guys discover that they're international sensations, Andy hobnobs with Roy Thomas, Derek is confused by Classics Illustrated, both reveal that they are Gunshow ignorant, dedicated listener Rainer Koschnick reminds the guys of PS Artbooks, and 1970s references abound. What's not to love? Wed, 04 Nov 2015 04:19:32 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal International Sensations It's the first week of November, and that means it must be time for Andy and Derek to go through the month's Previews catalog. As you may expect, there's a lot packed into the issue, and after a few words on Halloween and listener mail, they get right to the solicitations. Among the many upcoming releases they discuss on this month's Previews show are titles from Dark Horse Comics - Space-Mullet!: One Gamble at a Time and Snow Angel DC/Vertigo - Constantine, The Hellblazer: Vol. 1 and Egypt IDW Publishing/Top Shelf - Amazing Forest #1, Gutter Magic #1, Comic Book Apocalypse: The Graphic World of Jack Kirby, and Renée Image Comics - Cry Havoc #1, Pencil Head #1, Nowhere Men #1, and Nameless HC Action Lab Entertainment - The Cask of Amontillado AfterShock Comics - American Monster #1 and Strayer #1 Bergen Street Press - Copra: Round Three Big Planet/Retrofit Comics - Ikebana BOOM! Studios - The Last Contract #1 and Curb Stomp TP Canton Street Press - facsimile editions of Race for the Moon and Teen-Age Romances #14 Dynamite Entertainment - Devolution #1 Drawn and Quarterly - Beverly and The Envelope Manufacturer Fantagraphics Books - Comics Dementia, Nod Away, and The High Cost of Dying and Other Stories Hero Tomorrow Comics - Apama: The Undiscovered Animal, Vol. 1 Humanoids - The Swords of Glass and The Tipping Point NBM - Cruising through the Louvre No Press - Graveyard Quest St. Martin's Press - Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir Titan Comics - a new translation of The Nikopol Trilogy Vertical Comics - A Girl on the Shore Viz Media - One-Punch Man, Vol. 4and Monster: The Perfect Edition, Vol. 7 Also in this episode: the Two Guys discover that they're international sensations, Andy hobnobs with Roy Thomas, Derek is confused by Classics Illustrated, both reveal that they are Gunshow ignorant, dedicated listener Rainer Koschnick reminds the guys of PS Artbooks, and 1970s references abound. What's not to love? It's the first week of November, and that means it must be time for Andy and Derek to go through the month's Previews catalog. As you may expect, there's a lot packed into the issue, and after a few words on Halloween and listener mail, they get right to the solicitations. Among the many upcoming releases they discuss on this month's Previews show are titles from

Also in this episode: the Two Guys discover that they're international sensations, Andy hobnobs with Roy Thomas, Derek is confused by Classics Illustrated, both reveal that they are Gunshow ignorant, dedicated listener Rainer Koschnick reminds the guys of PS Artbooks, and 1970s references abound. What's not to love?

]]> 5722 no On Location - Talking with Creators at Wizard World Comic Con Austin 2015 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/on-location-talking-with-creators-at-wizard-world-comic-con-austin-2015 Over Halloween weekend, Derek was at the Wizard World Comic Con event in Austin, TX. There, he had the good fortune to talk with several creators, publishers, and a couple of fellow podcasters in attendance. In this episode you'll hear brief interviews with: Danielle, who was overseeing the Action Lab Comics display Jen and Angela of Anomaly, the geek girl podcast Victor Dandridge, president and CEO of Vantage: Inhouse Productions Amber, Melanie, and Isabella, students who work on  the comics section of the University of Texas' student paper The Daily Texan Jonathan Hennessey, coauthor of The Comic Book Story of Beer and Austin and Robert of Bogus World Books. Despite the heavy rains and flooding, the Wizard World con was well attended. It being Halloween weekend, one couldn't really tell whether the cosplaying left off and All Hallows' Eve began. Major creators as well as local artists attended the event, and Derek took the opportunity to talk with those whose work reflected the independent and small-press nature of the podcast. Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:57:50 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wet, but Fun Over Halloween weekend, Derek was at the Wizard World Comic Con event in Austin, TX. There, he had the good fortune to talk with several creators, publishers, and a couple of fellow podcasters in attendance. In this episode you'll hear brief interviews with: Danielle, who was overseeing the Action Lab Comics display Jen and Angela of Anomaly, the geek girl podcast Victor Dandridge, president and CEO of Vantage: Inhouse Productions Amber, Melanie, and Isabella, students who work on  the comics section of the University of Texas' student paper The Daily Texan Jonathan Hennessey, coauthor of The Comic Book Story of Beer and Austin and Robert of Bogus World Books. Despite the heavy rains and flooding, the Wizard World con was well attended. It being Halloween weekend, one couldn't really tell whether the cosplaying left off and All Hallows' Eve began. Major creators as well as local artists attended the event, and Derek took the opportunity to talk with those whose work reflected the independent and small-press nature of the podcast. Over Halloween weekend, Derek was at the Wizard World Comic Con event in Austin, TX. There, he had the good fortune to talk with several creators, publishers, and a couple of fellow podcasters in attendance. In this episode you'll hear brief interviews with:

Despite the heavy rains and flooding, the Wizard World con was well attended. It being Halloween weekend, one couldn't really tell whether the cosplaying left off and All Hallows' Eve began. Major creators as well as local artists attended the event, and Derek took the opportunity to talk with those whose work reflected the independent and small-press nature of the podcast.

]]> 3494 no Manga - Reviews of Anomal and Assassination Classroom http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/manga-reviews-of-anomal-and-assassination-classroom Shea and Derek return for another month's serving of warm, creamy manga. This one includes a heaping helping of other worldly phantoms and pedagogical cephalopods. In keeping with the spirit (literally) of the Halloween season, the guys begin with Nukuharu's Anomal (Gen Manga), a collection of seven short stores originally serialized in the Gen manga anthology. They enjoy the narratives well enough, but they're not entirely sure they understand the premises that Nukuharu establishes. At times there are noticeable gaps in exposition, as if the reader is coming into the middle of a story world with little context. Nonetheless, there are some stories that really stand out for the guys, such as "Kaeshi" and "Kaguya." While Anomal might not have been the strongest collection Derek and Shea have read, they conclude that it is worth checking out. Next, the Two Guys discuss the first six books in Yusei Matsui's Assassination Classroom series (the latest volume having just been released from VIZ Media). Whereas several of Nukuharu's stories were thin on premise, one cannot say the same of Matsui's efforts. Assassination Classroom centers on a mysterious other worldly being resembling an octopus, and who threatens to annihilate the earth, after having demonstrated his powers by destroying seventy percent of the moon. For some unknown reason, he asks to be the teacher of the underachieving students at Kunugigaoka Academy, a junior high prep school in Tokyo. All the while, and with the help of the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the students are trained and encouraged to assassinate their alien teacher, an all but impossible task given his varied and unlikely powers. The round-faced and multi-tentacled word-be destroyer adopts the name Koro Sensei -- a combination of "koro senai" (meaning "can't be killed") and "sensei" (teacher) -- and throughout the series he instructs his students on self-betterment, self-respect, and a sense of life purpose. As both Shea and Derek highlight, the series' strong suit is its ensemble cast, including conflicted classmates, unprincipled principals,  and teachers with dubious backgrounds, ranging from government agents to sexy professional assassins. Although Shea is a little uneasy with the series' subtle emphasis on militarization, both agree that Assassination Classroom excels at wringing compelling stories out of outrageous premises. This is a title that the guys will continue to follow. Fri, 30 Oct 2015 14:32:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Yokai and Tentacles Shea and Derek return for another month's serving of warm, creamy manga. This one includes a heaping helping of other worldly phantoms and pedagogical cephalopods. In keeping with the spirit (literally) of the Halloween season, the guys begin with Nukuharu's Anomal (Gen Manga), a collection of seven short stores originally serialized in the Gen manga anthology. They enjoy the narratives well enough, but they're not entirely sure they understand the premises that Nukuharu establishes. At times there are noticeable gaps in exposition, as if the reader is coming into the middle of a story world with little context. Nonetheless, there are some stories that really stand out for the guys, such as "Kaeshi" and "Kaguya." While Anomal might not have been the strongest collection Derek and Shea have read, they conclude that it is worth checking out. Next, the Two Guys discuss the first six books in Yusei Matsui's Assassination Classroom series (the latest volume having just been released from VIZ Media). Whereas several of Nukuharu's stories were thin on premise, one cannot say the same of Matsui's efforts. Assassination Classroom centers on a mysterious other worldly being resembling an octopus, and who threatens to annihilate the earth, after having demonstrated his powers by destroying seventy percent of the moon. For some unknown reason, he asks to be the teacher of the underachieving students at Kunugigaoka Academy, a junior high prep school in Tokyo. All the while, and with the help of the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the students are trained and encouraged to assassinate their alien teacher, an all but impossible task given his varied and unlikely powers. The round-faced and multi-tentacled word-be destroyer adopts the name Koro Sensei -- a combination of "koro senai" (meaning "can't be killed") and "sensei" (teacher) -- and throughout the series he instructs his students on self-betterment, self-respect, and a sense of life purpose. As both Shea and Derek highlight, the series' strong suit is its ensemble cast, including conflicted classmates, unprincipled principals,  and teachers with dubious backgrounds, ranging from government agents to sexy professional assassins. Although Shea is a little uneasy with the series' subtle emphasis on militarization, both agree that Assassination Classroom excels at wringing compelling stories out of outrageous premises. This is a title that the guys will continue to follow. Shea and Derek return for another month's serving of warm, creamy manga. This one includes a heaping helping of other worldly phantoms and pedagogical cephalopods. In keeping with the spirit (literally) of the Halloween season, the guys begin with Nukuharu's Anomal (Gen Manga), a collection of seven short stores originally serialized in the Gen manga anthology. They enjoy the narratives well enough, but they're not entirely sure they understand the premises that Nukuharu establishes. At times there are noticeable gaps in exposition, as if the reader is coming into the middle of a story world with little context. Nonetheless, there are some stories that really stand out for the guys, such as "Kaeshi" and "Kaguya." While Anomal might not have been the strongest collection Derek and Shea have read, they conclude that it is worth checking out. Next, the Two Guys discuss the first six books in Yusei Matsui's Assassination Classroom series (the latest volume having just been released from VIZ Media). Whereas several of Nukuharu's stories were thin on premise, one cannot say the same of Matsui's efforts. Assassination Classroom centers on a mysterious other worldly being resembling an octopus, and who threatens to annihilate the earth, after having demonstrated his powers by destroying seventy percent of the moon. For some unknown reason, he asks to be the teacher of the underachieving students at Kunugigaoka Academy, a junior high prep school in Tokyo. All the while, and with the help of the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the students are trained and encouraged to assassinate their alien teacher, an all but impossible task given his varied and unlikely powers. The round-faced and multi-tentacled word-be destroyer adopts the name Koro Sensei -- a combination of "koro senai" (meaning "can't be killed") and "sensei" (teacher) -- and throughout the series he instructs his students on self-betterment, self-respect, and a sense of life purpose. As both Shea and Derek highlight, the series' strong suit is its ensemble cast, including conflicted classmates, unprincipled principals,  and teachers with dubious backgrounds, ranging from government agents to sexy professional assassins. Although Shea is a little uneasy with the series' subtle emphasis on militarization, both agree that Assassination Classroom excels at wringing compelling stories out of outrageous premises. This is a title that the guys will continue to follow.

]]> 4966 no Episode 159 - Halloween Comics 2015 http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-159-halloween-comics-2015 It's the scary season, and as they've done for the past couple of years, Gene and Derek talk about some of this year's Halloween specials and seasonal horror titles. In this episode you'll hear the Two Guys with PhDs discuss: Haunted Horror: Pre-Code Comics So Good, They're Scary!, edited by Craig Yoe, Clizia Gussoni, and Steve Banes (IDW Publishing) Upside Down: A Hat Full of Spells, by Jess Smart Smiley (Top Shelf) Monsterjunkies: An American Family Odyssey, Erik Daniel Shein, Theresa A. Gates, and Jay Fotos Studios (Red Anvil) The Goon: Theatre Bizarre, by Eric Powell and John Dunivant (Dark Horse Comics) Adventure Time 2015 Spoooktacular, by Hanna K. (Kaboom!) Spongebob Comics #49, edited by Chris Duffy (United Plankton Pictures/Bongo Comics) All Hallows' Eve #5, by Ty Thomas Luckman, Trevor Luckman, and Dave Mims (215 Ink) Elder House #2, by Drew Matthews and Carlos Trigo (215 Ink) Grimm Fairy Tales 2015 Halloween Special, by Joe Brusha, Ralph Tedesco, Troy Brownfield, and Mario Del Pennino (Zenescope) Zombies vs. Cheerleaders 2015 Halloween Special, edited by Steven L. Frank (Zenescope) Zombie Tramp Halloween Special, by Dan Mendoza (Action Lab) Gold Digger Halloween Special, edited by Doug Dlin and Robby Bevard (Antarctic Press) Derek and Gene spend much of their time discussing their favorite book of the week, the latest volume of Haunted Horror. There are a lot of spooky and just plain weird titles in this collection -- case in point: "Ghost from Mars" -- and the guys could have easily spent the entire episode talking about Craig Yoe's latest effort. But they have a lot of ground to cover, so they move on from there to the other offerings. Titles such as Upside Down, Monsterjunkies, Adventure Time 2015 Spoooktacular, and Spongebob Comics are perfect for those younger readers getting ready to go trick or treating...or, in the case of Spongebob, even for those older readers staying in and giving out the candy. The guys also discuss the pros and cons of seasonal titles that are part of an ongoing storyline -- for example, this Halloween's Adventure Time and Grimm Fairy Tales -- and the attraction of certain issues, such as The Goon: Theatre Bizarre and All Hallows' Eve, that easily stand on their own outside of any series continuity. And then there are seasonal titles such as Zombies vs. Cheerleaders and Gold Digger, for which Gene and Derek feel at a total lost. Still, the guys have a good time talking about this year's Halloween comics, even if they don't understand them all. Wed, 28 Oct 2015 03:00:27 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “A heaping helping of horror” It's the scary season, and as they've done for the past couple of years, Gene and Derek talk about some of this year's Halloween specials and seasonal horror titles. In this episode you'll hear the Two Guys with PhDs discuss: Haunted Horror: Pre-Code Comics So Good, They're Scary!, edited by Craig Yoe, Clizia Gussoni, and Steve Banes (IDW Publishing) Upside Down: A Hat Full of Spells, by Jess Smart Smiley (Top Shelf) Monsterjunkies: An American Family Odyssey, Erik Daniel Shein, Theresa A. Gates, and Jay Fotos Studios (Red Anvil) The Goon: Theatre Bizarre, by Eric Powell and John Dunivant (Dark Horse Comics) Adventure Time 2015 Spoooktacular, by Hanna K. (Kaboom!) Spongebob Comics #49, edited by Chris Duffy (United Plankton Pictures/Bongo Comics) All Hallows' Eve #5, by Ty Thomas Luckman, Trevor Luckman, and Dave Mims (215 Ink) Elder House #2, by Drew Matthews and Carlos Trigo (215 Ink) Grimm Fairy Tales 2015 Halloween Special, by Joe Brusha, Ralph Tedesco, Troy Brownfield, and Mario Del Pennino (Zenescope) Zombies vs. Cheerleaders 2015 Halloween Special, edited by Steven L. Frank (Zenescope) Zombie Tramp Halloween Special, by Dan Mendoza (Action Lab) Gold Digger Halloween Special, edited by Doug Dlin and Robby Bevard (Antarctic Press) Derek and Gene spend much of their time discussing their favorite book of the week, the latest volume of Haunted Horror. There are a lot of spooky and just plain weird titles in this collection -- case in point: "Ghost from Mars" -- and the guys could have easily spent the entire episode talking about Craig Yoe's latest effort. But they have a lot of ground to cover, so they move on from there to the other offerings. Titles such as Upside Down, Monsterjunkies, Adventure Time 2015 Spoooktacular, and Spongebob Comics are perfect for those younger readers getting ready to go trick or treating...or, in the case of Spongebob, even for those older readers staying in and giving out the candy. The guys also discuss the pros and cons of seasonal titles that are part of an ongoing storyline -- for example, this Halloween's Adventure Time and Grimm Fairy Tales -- and the attraction of certain issues, such as The Goon: Theatre Bizarre and All Hallows' Eve, that easily stand on their own outside of any series continuity. And then there are seasonal titles such as Zombies vs. Cheerleaders and Gold Digger, for which Gene and Derek feel at a total lost. Still, the guys have a good time talking about this year's Halloween comics, even if they don't understand them all. It's the scary season, and as they've done for the past couple of years, Gene and Derek talk about some of this year's Halloween specials and seasonal horror titles. In this episode you'll hear the Two Guys with PhDs discuss:

Derek and Gene spend much of their time discussing their favorite book of the week, the latest volume of Haunted Horror. There are a lot of spooky and just plain weird titles in this collection -- case in point: "Ghost from Mars" -- and the guys could have easily spent the entire episode talking about Craig Yoe's latest effort. But they have a lot of ground to cover, so they move on from there to the other offerings. Titles such as Upside Down, Monsterjunkies, Adventure Time 2015 Spoooktacular, and Spongebob Comics are perfect for those younger readers getting ready to go trick or treating...or, in the case of Spongebob, even for those older readers staying in and giving out the candy. The guys also discuss the pros and cons of seasonal titles that are part of an ongoing storyline -- for example, this Halloween's Adventure Time and Grimm Fairy Tales -- and the attraction of certain issues, such as The Goon: Theatre Bizarre and All Hallows' Eve, that easily stand on their own outside of any series continuity. And then there are seasonal titles such as Zombies vs. Cheerleaders and Gold Digger, for which Gene and Derek feel at a total lost. Still, the guys have a good time talking about this year's Halloween comics, even if they don't understand them all.

]]> 6982 no Special - A Roundtable Discussion on Religion and Comics http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/special-a-roundtable-discussion-on-religion-and-comics On this special episode of the podcast, Derek moderates a roundtable discussion on comics and religion. Joining him on the panel are Elizabeth Coody (teaching at the Iliff School of Theology), Jeff Brackett (Ball State University), and A. David Lewis (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences), all of whom are comics scholars focusing on representations of religious belief and faith. They begin their discussion by sharing their backgrounds in comics and how they have found the medium a useful means to approaching religious studies. In addition to describing the specifics of their scholarship, the panelists also discuss the various strategies they've employed when using comics in the classroom, along with the challenges that come when using comics to teach issues of faith. The subjects that come up during the discussion range from superheroes and myths, manifestations of the afterlife, adaptations of religious texts, biographies of religious leaders, expressions of heaven and hell, the crossroads of faith and ethnicity, and parodic (even heretical) representations of religious figures, doctrines, and practices. At times on the panel the discussants clash or come at books from different angles -- for example, Jeff and David disagree on the usefulness of Craig Thompson's Habibi and Derek pushes back on the "religiousness" of such comics as Maus, A Contract with God, and Persepolis -- but the talk is always lively and insightful. Among the many texts they reference are Neil Gaiman's Sandman series, Mike Carey's Lucifer, Justin Green's Binky Brown Meets the Holy Virgin Mary, Robert Crumb's The Book of Genesis Illustrated, Sean Murphy's Punk Rock Jesus, Mark Waid's Kingdom Come, Mark Millar's American Jesus, and Craig Thompson's Blankets. They even discuss comics as religious propaganda, such as what you'll find in the Spire comics published by Archie during the 1970s and the ever-present Chick tracts. The panelists covered a lot of ground, but there was so much more that was left unspoken...enough to warrant a future follow-up roundtable on the same topic. Mon, 26 Oct 2015 12:17:34 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Like a Prayer On this special episode of the podcast, Derek moderates a roundtable discussion on comics and religion. Joining him on the panel are Elizabeth Coody (teaching at the Iliff School of Theology), Jeff Brackett (Ball State University), and A. David Lewis (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences), all of whom are comics scholars focusing on representations of religious belief and faith. They begin their discussion by sharing their backgrounds in comics and how they have found the medium a useful means to approaching religious studies. In addition to describing the specifics of their scholarship, the panelists also discuss the various strategies they've employed when using comics in the classroom, along with the challenges that come when using comics to teach issues of faith. The subjects that come up during the discussion range from superheroes and myths, manifestations of the afterlife, adaptations of religious texts, biographies of religious leaders, expressions of heaven and hell, the crossroads of faith and ethnicity, and parodic (even heretical) representations of religious figures, doctrines, and practices. At times on the panel the discussants clash or come at books from different angles -- for example, Jeff and David disagree on the usefulness of Craig Thompson's Habibi and Derek pushes back on the "religiousness" of such comics as Maus, A Contract with God, and Persepolis -- but the talk is always lively and insightful. Among the many texts they reference are Neil Gaiman's Sandman series, Mike Carey's Lucifer, Justin Green's Binky Brown Meets the Holy Virgin Mary, Robert Crumb's The Book of Genesis Illustrated, Sean Murphy's Punk Rock Jesus, Mark Waid's Kingdom Come, Mark Millar's American Jesus, and Craig Thompson's Blankets. They even discuss comics as religious propaganda, such as what you'll find in the Spire comics published by Archie during the 1970s and the ever-present Chick tracts. The panelists covered a lot of ground, but there was so much more that was left unspoken...enough to warrant a future follow-up roundtable on the same topic. On this special episode of the podcast, Derek moderates a roundtable discussion on comics and religion. Joining him on the panel are Elizabeth Coody (teaching at the Iliff School of Theology), Jeff Brackett (Ball State University), and A. David Lewis (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences), all of whom are comics scholars focusing on representations of religious belief and faith. They begin their discussion by sharing their backgrounds in comics and how they have found the medium a useful means to approaching religious studies. In addition to describing the specifics of their scholarship, the panelists also discuss the various strategies they've employed when using comics in the classroom, along with the challenges that come when using comics to teach issues of faith. The subjects that come up during the discussion range from superheroes and myths, manifestations of the afterlife, adaptations of religious texts, biographies of religious leaders, expressions of heaven and hell, the crossroads of faith and ethnicity, and parodic (even heretical) representations of religious figures, doctrines, and practices. At times on the panel the discussants clash or come at books from different angles -- for example, Jeff and David disagree on the usefulness of Craig Thompson's Habibi and Derek pushes back on the "religiousness" of such comics as Maus, A Contract with God, and Persepolis -- but the talk is always lively and insightful. Among the many texts they reference are Neil Gaiman's Sandman series, Mike Carey's Lucifer, Justin Green's Binky Brown Meets the Holy Virgin Mary, Robert Crumb's The Book of Genesis Illustrated, Sean Murphy's Punk Rock Jesus, Mark Waid's Kingdom Come, Mark Millar's American Jesus, and Craig Thompson's Blankets. They even discuss comics as religious propaganda, such as what you'll find in the Spire comics published by Archie during the 1970s and the ever-present Chick tracts. The panelists covered a lot of ground, but there was so much more that was left unspoken...enough to warrant a future follow-up roundtable on the same topic.

]]> 6409 no Interviews - Jonathan Case http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/interviews-jonathan-case On this episode of their interview series, Derek and Andy W. talk with Jonathan Case about his new graphic novel that was just released, The New Deal (Dark Horse Books). It's the Depression-era story of Frank and Theresa, a bellhop and maid working at the Waldorf Astoria who get caught up in a series of mysterious thefts. It's a kind of heist narrative with an old screwball comedy flair -- think of Cary Grant and Kathryn Hepburn -- and one that involves references to both Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway. The Two Guys talk with Jonathan about his skills at characterization, both in the construction of his personae and his use of clean-line art to bring out each one's best defining qualities. They also discuss Case's background in the performing arts and how his sense of dialogue and timing manifests itself on the paneled page. Although most of the conversation centers on The New Deal, Andy and Derek also ask Jonathan about his work with Jeff Jenson on Green River Killer, a new edition of which will be coming out soon from Dark Horse. This was a completely different kind of project from Jonathan's fictional work, and the guys ask their guest about the challenges of representing one of the most notorious serial killings of modern times. Of particular interest was Case's working relationship with the Jenson family and the distance the artist needed to maintain while crafting the story's documentary tone. Along the way, they discuss Jonathan's work on other titles such as Dear Creature and Batman '66, his association with Periscope Studio, and the ways in which his family life impacts his art. The result is a highly informative, personal, and measured conversation about the many facets of comics storytelling...something the Two Guys with PhDs are always able to get out of their guests. Fri, 23 Oct 2015 12:05:16 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Craft and Capers On this episode of their interview series, Derek and Andy W. talk with Jonathan Case about his new graphic novel that was just released, The New Deal (Dark Horse Books). It's the Depression-era story of Frank and Theresa, a bellhop and maid working at the Waldorf Astoria who get caught up in a series of mysterious thefts. It's a kind of heist narrative with an old screwball comedy flair -- think of Cary Grant and Kathryn Hepburn -- and one that involves references to both Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway. The Two Guys talk with Jonathan about his skills at characterization, both in the construction of his personae and his use of clean-line art to bring out each one's best defining qualities. They also discuss Case's background in the performing arts and how his sense of dialogue and timing manifests itself on the paneled page. Although most of the conversation centers on The New Deal, Andy and Derek also ask Jonathan about his work with Jeff Jenson on Green River Killer, a new edition of which will be coming out soon from Dark Horse. This was a completely different kind of project from Jonathan's fictional work, and the guys ask their guest about the challenges of representing one of the most notorious serial killings of modern times. Of particular interest was Case's working relationship with the Jenson family and the distance the artist needed to maintain while crafting the story's documentary tone. Along the way, they discuss Jonathan's work on other titles such as Dear Creature and Batman '66, his association with Periscope Studio, and the ways in which his family life impacts his art. The result is a highly informative, personal, and measured conversation about the many facets of comics storytelling...something the Two Guys with PhDs are always able to get out of their guests. On this episode of their interview series, Derek and Andy W. talk with Jonathan Case about his new graphic novel that was just released, The New Deal (Dark Horse Books). It's the Depression-era story of Frank and Theresa, a bellhop and maid working at the Waldorf Astoria who get caught up in a series of mysterious thefts. It's a kind of heist narrative with an old screwball comedy flair -- think of Cary Grant and Kathryn Hepburn -- and one that involves references to both Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway. The Two Guys talk with Jonathan about his skills at characterization, both in the construction of his personae and his use of clean-line art to bring out each one's best defining qualities. They also discuss Case's background in the performing arts and how his sense of dialogue and timing manifests itself on the paneled page. Although most of the conversation centers on The New Deal, Andy and Derek also ask Jonathan about his work with Jeff Jenson on Green River Killer, a new edition of which will be coming out soon from Dark Horse. This was a completely different kind of project from Jonathan's fictional work, and the guys ask their guest about the challenges of representing one of the most notorious serial killings of modern times. Of particular interest was Case's working relationship with the Jenson family and the distance the artist needed to maintain while crafting the story's documentary tone. Along the way, they discuss Jonathan's work on other titles such as Dear Creature and Batman '66, his association with Periscope Studio, and the ways in which his family life impacts his art. The result is a highly informative, personal, and measured conversation about the many facets of comics storytelling...something the Two Guys with PhDs are always able to get out of their guests.

]]> 4474 no Episode 158 - A Publisher Spotlight on First Second Books http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/episode-158-a-publisher-spotlight-on-first-second-books For this episode, Gwen and Derek team up for another Publisher Spotlight episode, this one on First Second Books and their fall releases. The titles they discuss include Paul Pope, JT Petty, David Rubin's Battling Boy: The Fall of the House of West; Balak, Michael Sanlaville, and Bastien Vives's Last Man: The Chase; Jean-David Morvan and Dominique Bertail's Omaha Beach on D-Day; Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes's Secret Coders; Maris Wicks's Human Body Theater; Ian Lendler and Zack Giallongo's The Stratford Zoo Midnight Review Presents Romeo and Juliet; and Chris Duffy's edited collection, Fable Comics. Wed, 21 Oct 2015 02:03:48 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Ruining series since 2015” For this episode, Gwen and Derek team up for another Publisher Spotlight episode, this one on First Second Books and their fall releases. The titles they discuss include Paul Pope, JT Petty, David Rubin's Battling Boy: The Fall of the House of West; Balak, Michael Sanlaville, and Bastien Vives's Last Man: The Chase; Jean-David Morvan and Dominique Bertail's Omaha Beach on D-Day; Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes's Secret Coders; Maris Wicks's Human Body Theater; Ian Lendler and Zack Giallongo's The Stratford Zoo Midnight Review Presents Romeo and Juliet; and Chris Duffy's edited collection, Fable Comics. For this episode, Gwen and Derek team up for another Publisher Spotlight episode, this one on First Second Books and their fall releases. The titles they discuss include Paul Pope, JT Petty, David Rubin's Battling Boy: The Fall of the House of West; Balak, Michael Sanlaville, and Bastien Vives's Last Man: The Chase; Jean-David Morvan and Dominique Bertail's Omaha Beach on D-Day; Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes's Secret Coders; Maris Wicks's Human Body Theater; Ian Lendler and Zack Giallongo's The Stratford Zoo Midnight Review Presents Romeo and Juliet; and Chris Duffy's edited collection, Fable Comics.

]]> 8114 no Webcomics - Reviews of Broodhollow, Wilde Life, and False Positive http://comicsalternative.libsyn.com/webcomics-reviews-of-broodhollow-wilde-life-and-false-positive This month on the webcomics series, Sean and Derek review three titles that all keep in the spirit of Halloween: Kris Straub's Broodhollow, Pascalle Lepas's Wilde Life, and Mike Walton's False Positive. Mon, 19 Oct 2015 11:53:55 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal October Eeriness This month on the webcomics series, Sean and Derek review three titles that all keep in the spirit of Halloween: Kris Straub's Broodhollow, Pascalle Lepas's Wilde Life, and Mike Walton's False Positive. This month on the webcomics series, Sean and Derek review three titles that all keep in the spirit of Halloween: Kris Straub's Broodhollow, Pascalle Lepas's Wilde Life, and Mike Walton's False Positive.

]]> 6582 no Interviews - Peter Kuper http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews62-Kuper.mp3 For this interview show, Andy and Derek are very pleased to have as their guest Peter Kuper, whose latest work, Ruins, has just been released through SelfMadeHero. As the author points out, this is a very different kind of book from his usual material, one that has taken over three years to complete. Ruins is the story of a young married couple who travel to Oaxaca, Mexico, for the wife’s sabbatical. There the two of them, George and Samantha, bear witness to, and become involved in, some of the political unrest unfolding during their visit. More importantly, each one undergoes a unique journey that defines the trajectory of the life that follows. Paralleling Sam and George’s experiences is the flight of a monarch butterfly as she makes her way from Canada to Oaxaca, hovering over much of the social, political, and environmental turmoil that has come to define our times. As the guys point out, this is a very politically conscious narrative, as many of Peter’s comics are — see, for example, The System, his work on World War 3 Illustrated, and Diario de Oaxaca: A Sketchbook Journal of Two Years in Mexico, a text that visits many of the real-life contexts underlying Ruins — but his handling of the message(s) is woven seamlessly within the fiction, never heavy-handed, preachy, or didactic. Derek and Andy also use the opportunity to talk with Peter about teaching comics art, which he does at both the School of Visual Arts and Harvard University. They also get around to asking him about some of his other works, including the wordless comic, The System, his Kafka adaptations, Stop Forgetting to Remember: The Autobiography of Walter Kurtz, and, of course, Spy vs. Spy. The guys have been big fans of Peter’s work for a long time, and the publication of Ruins, perhaps one of their favorites books of the year, is the perfect opportunity to finally get him on the show. Fri, 16 Oct 2015 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Thanks, Peter, for making me bleed" For this interview show, Andy and Derek are very pleased to have as their guest Peter Kuper, whose latest work, Ruins, has just been released through SelfMadeHero. As the author points out, this is a very different kind of book from his usual material, one that has taken over three years to complete. Ruins is the story of a young married couple who travel to Oaxaca, Mexico, for the wife’s sabbatical. There the two of them, George and Samantha, bear witness to, and become involved in, some of the political unrest unfolding during their visit. More importantly, each one undergoes a unique journey that defines the trajectory of the life that follows. Paralleling Sam and George’s experiences is the flight of a monarch butterfly as she makes her way from Canada to Oaxaca, hovering over much of the social, political, and environmental turmoil that has come to define our times. As the guys point out, this is a very politically conscious narrative, as many of Peter’s comics are — see, for example, The System, his work on World War 3 Illustrated, and Diario de Oaxaca: A Sketchbook Journal of Two Years in Mexico, a text that visits many of the real-life contexts underlying Ruins — but his handling of the message(s) is woven seamlessly within the fiction, never heavy-handed, preachy, or didactic. Derek and Andy also use the opportunity to talk with Peter about teaching comics art, which he does at both the School of Visual Arts and Harvard University. They also get around to asking him about some of his other works, including the wordless comic, The System, his Kafka adaptations, Stop Forgetting to Remember: The Autobiography of Walter Kurtz, and, of course, Spy vs. Spy. The guys have been big fans of Peter’s work for a long time, and the publication of Ruins, perhaps one of their favorites books of the year, is the perfect opportunity to finally get him on the show. For this interview show, Andy and Derek are very pleased to have as their guest Peter Kuper, whose latest work, Ruins, has just been released through SelfMadeHero. As the author points out, this is a very different kind of book from his usual material, one that has taken over three years to complete. Ruins is the story of a young married couple who travel to Oaxaca, Mexico, for the wife’s sabbatical. There the two of them, George and Samantha, bear witness to, and become involved in, some of the political unrest unfolding during their visit. More importantly, each one undergoes a unique journey that defines the trajectory of the life that follows. Paralleling Sam and George’s experiences is the flight of a monarch butterfly as she makes her way from Canada to Oaxaca, hovering over much of the social, political, and environmental turmoil that has come to define our times. As the guys point out, this is a very politically conscious narrative, as many of Peter’s comics are — see, for example, The System, his work on World War 3 Illustrated, and Diario de Oaxaca: A Sketchbook Journal of Two Years in Mexico, a text that visits many of the real-life contexts underlying Ruins — but his handling of the message(s) is woven seamlessly within the fiction, never heavy-handed, preachy, or didactic. Derek and Andy also use the opportunity to talk with Peter about teaching comics art, which he does at both the School of Visual Arts and Harvard University. They also get around to asking him about some of his other works, including the wordless comic, The System, his Kafka adaptations, Stop Forgetting to Remember: The Autobiography of Walter Kurtz, and, of course, Spy vs. Spy. The guys have been big fans of Peter’s work for a long time, and the publication of Ruins, perhaps one of their favorites books of the year, is the perfect opportunity to finally get him on the show.

]]> 5772 no Young Readers - Reviews of Veda: Assembly Required and Little Robot http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_YoungReaders2.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative‘s “Young Readers” series, Gwen and Andy are back to take a look at two books about robots. (They didn’t plan it that way, really.) Both titles actually have more in common than just robots in that they each address issues of friendship, belonging, and how technology has changed our lives and the lives of our youth. Both books also contain strong young female protagonists whose friends aren’t always human. Gwen starts things off with a look at Veda: Assembly Required (Dark Horse), by Samuel Teer, Hyeondo Park, and Kelly Fitzpatrick. Gwen and Andy both thought the premise of a young girl raised by robots in a factory was interesting and perhaps not as dystopian as you might think. The use of icons as a communication device takes a bit of getting used to, but most readers will quickly adapt to them and will no doubt find they are an essential component of the story. For younger readers, Andy describes Ben Hatke’s new book, Little Robot (First Second), a project writer and illustrator Ben Hatke discussed briefly with the Two Guys in an interview from last year. In this new, largely wordless graphic novel, Hatke takes readers on a journey from the trailer park to a junkyard where a young girl discovers a set of tools and a new friend in the form of a little lost robot. But someone else is looking for this robot, someone whose intentions are not as friendly as our young protagonist. Gwen and Andy discuss not only Hatke’s wonderful artistic and storytelling abilities, but also the fact that he has chosen a young African American girl as his protagonist, something no one else in the comics world seems to be talking about. Hmmm…. In all, Gwen and Andy find it fascinating that both books — by different creators working in different styles — speak to some universal truths of friendship, social constructs, and finding your place in the world. And since we are just a few weeks away from Halloween, Gwen and Andy decided to hand out a few early treats (no tricks, we promise!) in the form of some spooky graphic novel suggestions for teens and younger readers. Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Robots Gone Wild! On this episode of The Comics Alternative‘s “Young Readers” series, Gwen and Andy are back to take a look at two books about robots. (They didn’t plan it that way, really.) Both titles actually have more in common than just robots in that they each address issues of friendship, belonging, and how technology has changed our lives and the lives of our youth. Both books also contain strong young female protagonists whose friends aren’t always human. Gwen starts things off with a look at Veda: Assembly Required (Dark Horse), by Samuel Teer, Hyeondo Park, and Kelly Fitzpatrick. Gwen and Andy both thought the premise of a young girl raised by robots in a factory was interesting and perhaps not as dystopian as you might think. The use of icons as a communication device takes a bit of getting used to, but most readers will quickly adapt to them and will no doubt find they are an essential component of the story. For younger readers, Andy describes Ben Hatke’s new book, Little Robot (First Second), a project writer and illustrator Ben Hatke discussed briefly with the Two Guys in an interview from last year. In this new, largely wordless graphic novel, Hatke takes readers on a journey from the trailer park to a junkyard where a young girl discovers a set of tools and a new friend in the form of a little lost robot. But someone else is looking for this robot, someone whose intentions are not as friendly as our young protagonist. Gwen and Andy discuss not only Hatke’s wonderful artistic and storytelling abilities, but also the fact that he has chosen a young African American girl as his protagonist, something no one else in the comics world seems to be talking about. Hmmm…. In all, Gwen and Andy find it fascinating that both books — by different creators working in different styles — speak to some universal truths of friendship, social constructs, and finding your place in the world. And since we are just a few weeks away from Halloween, Gwen and Andy decided to hand out a few early treats (no tricks, we promise!) in the form of some spooky graphic novel suggestions for teens and younger readers. On this episode of The Comics Alternative‘s “Young Readers” series, Gwen and Andy are back to take a look at two books about robots. (They didn’t plan it that way, really.) Both titles actually have more in common than just robots in that they each address issues of friendship, belonging, and how technology has changed our lives and the lives of our youth. Both books also contain strong young female protagonists whose friends aren’t always human. Gwen starts things off with a look at Veda: Assembly Required (Dark Horse), by Samuel Teer, Hyeondo Park, and Kelly Fitzpatrick. Gwen and Andy both thought the premise of a young girl raised by robots in a factory was interesting and perhaps not as dystopian as you might think. The use of icons as a communication device takes a bit of getting used to, but most readers will quickly adapt to them and will no doubt find they are an essential component of the story. For younger readers, Andy describes Ben Hatke’s new book, Little Robot (First Second), a project writer and illustrator Ben Hatke discussed briefly with the Two Guys in an interview from last year. In this new, largely wordless graphic novel, Hatke takes readers on a journey from the trailer park to a junkyard where a young girl discovers a set of tools and a new friend in the form of a little lost robot. But someone else is looking for this robot, someone whose intentions are not as friendly as our young protagonist. Gwen and Andy discuss not only Hatke’s wonderful artistic and storytelling abilities, but also the fact that he has chosen a young African American girl as his protagonist, something no one else in the comics world seems to be talking about. Hmmm…. In all, Gwen and Andy find it fascinating that both books — by different creators working in different styles — speak to some universal truths of friendship, social constructs, and finding your place in the world. And since we are just a few weeks away from Halloween, Gwen and Andy decided to hand out a few early treats (no tricks, we promise!) in the form of some spooky graphic novel suggestions for teens and younger readers.

]]> 3694 no Episode 157 - Steve Ditko’s Self-Published Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-157.mp3 On this special episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek take a look at a variety of Steve Ditko's self-published comics. Since 2008, Ditko, along with Robin Snyder, has been putting out original work on a fairly regular basis. These comics are created and distributed independently -- and for the past few years have been crowdfunded by Kickstarter campaigns -- and as such, they have fallen below the radar of most comics readers. Beginning with The Avenging Mind, Ditko has sporadically produced superhero stories, crime/noir narratives, psychological allegories, and comics that reflect his socio-political ideas and philosophies. Among the ongoing serials in these self-published comics, Derek and Andy discuss "Miss Eerie," "The Cape," "The ?!," "The Grey Negotiator," "The Madman," "Outline," and "E (e) and I (i)." There are several themes that rise to the surface of these stories, such as traditional heroics, the use of masks, and the tenants of Objectivism. And of course, there are the Mr. A strips that have come to define much of Ditko's later work. Of particular interest to the Two Guys are those comics that reflect Ditko's complicated attitudes toward, and perhaps relationship with, his fans. At first glance, the stories that revolve around Eye Inquire and The Anti-s (AKA, Fan Man and Fan Boy) may seem dismissive and even condescending, but Andy and Derek point out that there is a deep history underlying the tone of these comics and part of their allure are the industry-based questions they open up. Of special note: this is the 300th episode of The Comics Alternative that the guys have produced. Although, and as the title suggests, this may be the 157th weekly show -- those regular review episodes that come out every Wednesday -- it is part of the larger body of podcasting work that has included over three-year's-worth of interviews, on-location shows, specials, and monthly series devoted to webcomics, manga, and young adult/children's comics. Celebrate the occasion by telling others about the podcast! Wed, 14 Oct 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal An Avenging Mind On this special episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek take a look at a variety of Steve Ditko's self-published comics. Since 2008, Ditko, along with Robin Snyder, has been putting out original work on a fairly regular basis. These comics are created and distributed independently -- and for the past few years have been crowdfunded by Kickstarter campaigns -- and as such, they have fallen below the radar of most comics readers. Beginning with The Avenging Mind, Ditko has sporadically produced superhero stories, crime/noir narratives, psychological allegories, and comics that reflect his socio-political ideas and philosophies. Among the ongoing serials in these self-published comics, Derek and Andy discuss "Miss Eerie," "The Cape," "The ?!," "The Grey Negotiator," "The Madman," "Outline," and "E (e) and I (i)." There are several themes that rise to the surface of these stories, such as traditional heroics, the use of masks, and the tenants of Objectivism. And of course, there are the Mr. A strips that have come to define much of Ditko's later work. Of particular interest to the Two Guys are those comics that reflect Ditko's complicated attitudes toward, and perhaps relationship with, his fans. At first glance, the stories that revolve around Eye Inquire and The Anti-s (AKA, Fan Man and Fan Boy) may seem dismissive and even condescending, but Andy and Derek point out that there is a deep history underlying the tone of these comics and part of their allure are the industry-based questions they open up. Of special note: this is the 300th episode of The Comics Alternative that the guys have produced. Although, and as the title suggests, this may be the 157th weekly show -- those regular review episodes that come out every Wednesday -- it is part of the larger body of podcasting work that has included over three-year's-worth of interviews, on-location shows, specials, and monthly series devoted to webcomics, manga, and young adult/children's comics. Celebrate the occasion by telling others about the podcast! On this special episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek take a look at a variety of Steve Ditko's self-published comics. Since 2008, Ditko, along with Robin Snyder, has been putting out original work on a fairly regular basis. These comics are created and distributed independently -- and for the past few years have been crowdfunded by Kickstarter campaigns -- and as such, they have fallen below the radar of most comics readers. Beginning with The Avenging Mind, Ditko has sporadically produced superhero stories, crime/noir narratives, psychological allegories, and comics that reflect his socio-political ideas and philosophies. Among the ongoing serials in these self-published comics, Derek and Andy discuss "Miss Eerie," "The Cape," "The ?!," "The Grey Negotiator," "The Madman," "Outline," and "E (e) and I (i)." There are several themes that rise to the surface of these stories, such as traditional heroics, the use of masks, and the tenants of Objectivism. And of course, there are the Mr. A strips that have come to define much of Ditko's later work. Of particular interest to the Two Guys are those comics that reflect Ditko's complicated attitudes toward, and perhaps relationship with, his fans. At first glance, the stories that revolve around Eye Inquire and The Anti-s (AKA, Fan Man and Fan Boy) may seem dismissive and even condescending, but Andy and Derek point out that there is a deep history underlying the tone of these comics and part of their allure are the industry-based questions they open up. Of special note: this is the 300th episode of The Comics Alternative that the guys have produced. Although, and as the title suggests, this may be the 157th weekly show -- those regular review episodes that come out every Wednesday -- it is part of the larger body of podcasting work that has included over three-year's-worth of interviews, on-location shows, specials, and monthly series devoted to webcomics, manga, and young adult/children's comics. Celebrate the occasion by telling others about the podcast!

]]> 6072 no Interviews - Jessica Abel http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews61-Abel.mp3 On this episode of the interview series, Andy W. and Derek have as their guest Jessica Abel, whose latest book, Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio, was recently released by Broadway Books. In her conversation with the guys, Jessica discusses her history with narrative-based radio and how her earlier work, Radio: An Illustrated Guide (cowritten with Ira Glass), helped to open the door for her exploration of the medium. Out on the Wire is based on over three years of research and hours of interviews she conducted with the creators behind programs such as This American Life, Planet Money, Radiolab, The Moth, and Snap Judgment. The text culls the various storytelling strategies of these producers and dissects their effectiveness. This kind of expositional writing -- or "documentary comics," as Jessica calls it -- is something that the Two Guys rarely discuss, so they use this opportunity as a way into the genre. Along the way they also talk with Jessica about her podcast based on the new book, her work on Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars, her series editorship (along with her husband, Matt Madden) of the annual Best American Comics for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and her earlier books, including La Perdida, the instructional text Drawing Words and Writing Pictures (again, along with Madden), and the series Artbabe. For those interested in storytelling and the spoken word --  and not only for radio, but also as it applies to podcasting -- this interview with Jessica Abel is essential listening. Mon, 12 Oct 2015 11:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Story Time On this episode of the interview series, Andy W. and Derek have as their guest Jessica Abel, whose latest book, Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio, was recently released by Broadway Books. In her conversation with the guys, Jessica discusses her history with narrative-based radio and how her earlier work, Radio: An Illustrated Guide (cowritten with Ira Glass), helped to open the door for her exploration of the medium. Out on the Wire is based on over three years of research and hours of interviews she conducted with the creators behind programs such as This American Life, Planet Money, Radiolab, The Moth, and Snap Judgment. The text culls the various storytelling strategies of these producers and dissects their effectiveness. This kind of expositional writing -- or "documentary comics," as Jessica calls it -- is something that the Two Guys rarely discuss, so they use this opportunity as a way into the genre. Along the way they also talk with Jessica about her podcast based on the new book, her work on Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars, her series editorship (along with her husband, Matt Madden) of the annual Best American Comics for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and her earlier books, including La Perdida, the instructional text Drawing Words and Writing Pictures (again, along with Madden), and the series Artbabe. For those interested in storytelling and the spoken word --  and not only for radio, but also as it applies to podcasting -- this interview with Jessica Abel is essential listening. On this episode of the interview series, Andy W. and Derek have as their guest Jessica Abel, whose latest book, Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio, was recently released by Broadway Books. In her conversation with the guys, Jessica discusses her history with narrative-based radio and how her earlier work, Radio: An Illustrated Guide (cowritten with Ira Glass), helped to open the door for her exploration of the medium. Out on the Wire is based on over three years of research and hours of interviews she conducted with the creators behind programs such as This American Life, Planet Money, Radiolab, The Moth, and Snap Judgment. The text culls the various storytelling strategies of these producers and dissects their effectiveness. This kind of expositional writing -- or "documentary comics," as Jessica calls it -- is something that the Two Guys rarely discuss, so they use this opportunity as a way into the genre. Along the way they also talk with Jessica about her podcast based on the new book, her work on Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars, her series editorship (along with her husband, Matt Madden) of the annual Best American Comics for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and her earlier books, including La Perdida, the instructional text Drawing Words and Writing Pictures (again, along with Madden), and the series Artbabe. For those interested in storytelling and the spoken word --  and not only for radio, but also as it applies to podcasting -- this interview with Jessica Abel is essential listening.

]]> 4310 no Interviews - Brian Clevinger http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews60-Clevinger.mp3 Andy and Derek are excited to have as their guest on The Comics Alternative the man behind making Nikola Tesla even cooler than he already is: Brian Clevinger. He and his collaborator, Scott Wegener, have recently joined forces with IDW Publishing to bring us more Atomic Robo. And that's definitely something to celebrate! The newest story arc, Atomic Robo and the Ring of Fire, began last month, and on top of that, IDW has published the first of what promises to be multiple omnibus editions. Atomic Robo: The Everything Explodes Collection includes the first three story arcs -- The Fighting' Scientist of Tesladyne, The Dogs of War, and The Shadow from Beyond Time -- packaged in a hefty, attractive volume. Brian talks with the guys about his and Scott's decision earlier this year to self-publish Atomic Robo on their website, and then the unlikely and out-of-the-blue opportunity to partner with IDW to bring the title back into the direct market. Along the way, they discuss Brian's penchant for science and history, the evolution and discovery of Atomic Robo's reader demographics, the abundant humor found in the title (especially with Doctor Dinosaur), the creators' process of collaboration, and the use of historic personages within the Tesladyne universe. (Derek lobbies hard to get Mark Twain into this narrative world, complete with time-traveling goodness.) This was an interview long in coming, because the guys devoted most of an episode to Atomic Robo way back in the early days of the podcast, and catching Brian's attention by doing so. Andy talked with him briefly at HeroesCon 2014, but this was the first time the Two Guys have talked with Brian in a sustained and thorough manner. And they had a lot of fun doing so. Check out the interview and see why Atomic Robo is one of the most consistently well-written comics being published today. Action Science! Fri, 09 Oct 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "You guys, yeah...you're alright!" Andy and Derek are excited to have as their guest on The Comics Alternative the man behind making Nikola Tesla even cooler than he already is: Brian Clevinger. He and his collaborator, Scott Wegener, have recently joined forces with IDW Publishing to bring us more Atomic Robo. And that's definitely something to celebrate! The newest story arc, Atomic Robo and the Ring of Fire, began last month, and on top of that, IDW has published the first of what promises to be multiple omnibus editions. Atomic Robo: The Everything Explodes Collection includes the first three story arcs -- The Fighting' Scientist of Tesladyne, The Dogs of War, and The Shadow from Beyond Time -- packaged in a hefty, attractive volume. Brian talks with the guys about his and Scott's decision earlier this year to self-publish Atomic Robo on their website, and then the unlikely and out-of-the-blue opportunity to partner with IDW to bring the title back into the direct market. Along the way, they discuss Brian's penchant for science and history, the evolution and discovery of Atomic Robo's reader demographics, the abundant humor found in the title (especially with Doctor Dinosaur), the creators' process of collaboration, and the use of historic personages within the Tesladyne universe. (Derek lobbies hard to get Mark Twain into this narrative world, complete with time-traveling goodness.) This was an interview long in coming, because the guys devoted most of an episode to Atomic Robo way back in the early days of the podcast, and catching Brian's attention by doing so. Andy talked with him briefly at HeroesCon 2014, but this was the first time the Two Guys have talked with Brian in a sustained and thorough manner. And they had a lot of fun doing so. Check out the interview and see why Atomic Robo is one of the most consistently well-written comics being published today. Action Science! Andy and Derek are excited to have as their guest on The Comics Alternative the man behind making Nikola Tesla even cooler than he already is: Brian Clevinger. He and his collaborator, Scott Wegener, have recently joined forces with IDW Publishing to bring us more Atomic Robo. And that's definitely something to celebrate! The newest story arc, Atomic Robo and the Ring of Fire, began last month, and on top of that, IDW has published the first of what promises to be multiple omnibus editions. Atomic Robo: The Everything Explodes Collection includes the first three story arcs -- The Fighting' Scientist of Tesladyne, The Dogs of War, and The Shadow from Beyond Time -- packaged in a hefty, attractive volume. Brian talks with the guys about his and Scott's decision earlier this year to self-publish Atomic Robo on their website, and then the unlikely and out-of-the-blue opportunity to partner with IDW to bring the title back into the direct market. Along the way, they discuss Brian's penchant for science and history, the evolution and discovery of Atomic Robo's reader demographics, the abundant humor found in the title (especially with Doctor Dinosaur), the creators' process of collaboration, and the use of historic personages within the Tesladyne universe. (Derek lobbies hard to get Mark Twain into this narrative world, complete with time-traveling goodness.) This was an interview long in coming, because the guys devoted most of an episode to Atomic Robo way back in the early days of the podcast, and catching Brian's attention by doing so. Andy talked with him briefly at HeroesCon 2014, but this was the first time the Two Guys have talked with Brian in a sustained and thorough manner. And they had a lot of fun doing so. Check out the interview and see why Atomic Robo is one of the most consistently well-written comics being published today. Action Science!

]]> 4400 no Episode 156 - The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-156.mp3 Welcome to October! And to celebrate the occasion, Andy and Derek do what they do at the beginning of every month: look through the current Previews catalog! And for October, the selections are plentiful and exciting. The guys find a number of upcoming titles from the premier publishers, but there are also many coming out from smaller presses, some of which the guys discuss for the very first time. Among the many upcoming releases they discuss on this month’s Previews show are titles from Dark Horse, Vertigo, Image, IDW, Fantagraphics, Alternative Comics, Creature, Dover Publications, Comicmix, Locust Moon Press, Humanoids, BOOM! Studios, and Viz Media. Also on this episode: Derek encourages everyone to support Salgood Sam’s Patreon campaign, Andy discusses his current situation moisture, the guys express and enthusiastic “Thank you!” to Box and Jared at Big Planet/Retrofit Comics, and Andy shares his deep and abiding love for steampunk comics. Wed, 07 Oct 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Peanut Butter and Dog Sh*t Welcome to October! And to celebrate the occasion, Andy and Derek do what they do at the beginning of every month: look through the current Previews catalog! And for October, the selections are plentiful and exciting. The guys find a number of upcoming titles from the premier publishers, but there are also many coming out from smaller presses, some of which the guys discuss for the very first time. Among the many upcoming releases they discuss on this month’s Previews show are titles from Dark Horse, Vertigo, Image, IDW, Fantagraphics, Alternative Comics, Creature, Dover Publications, Comicmix, Locust Moon Press, Humanoids, BOOM! Studios, and Viz Media. Also on this episode: Derek encourages everyone to support Salgood Sam’s Patreon campaign, Andy discusses his current situation moisture, the guys express and enthusiastic “Thank you!” to Box and Jared at Big Planet/Retrofit Comics, and Andy shares his deep and abiding love for steampunk comics. Welcome to October! And to celebrate the occasion, Andy and Derek do what they do at the beginning of every month: look through the current Previews catalog! And for October, the selections are plentiful and exciting. The guys find a number of upcoming titles from the premier publishers, but there are also many coming out from smaller presses, some of which the guys discuss for the very first time. Among the many upcoming releases they discuss on this month’s Previews show are titles from Dark Horse, Vertigo, Image, IDW, Fantagraphics, Alternative Comics, Creature, Dover Publications, Comicmix, Locust Moon Press, Humanoids, BOOM! Studios, and Viz Media. Also on this episode: Derek encourages everyone to support Salgood Sam’s Patreon campaign, Andy discusses his current situation moisture, the guys express and enthusiastic “Thank you!” to Box and Jared at Big Planet/Retrofit Comics, and Andy shares his deep and abiding love for steampunk comics.

]]> 5822 no Episode 155 - International Podcast Day 2015 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-155.mp3 Today, September 30, is International Podcast Day! To celebrate the occasion the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics get together with some of the other cohosts of the show, Gwen Tarbox, Andy Wolverton, and Gene Kannenberg, Jr., to talk about podcasts and podcasting. As such, they don’t necessarily focus on comics podcasts — although podcasts about comics comes up often during the discussion — but instead, they share their insights and experiences concerning a wide variety of podcasts. For example, everybody begins by recounting the first podcasts they ever listened to, or what brought them to the medium. They also discuss how they discern podcasts in terms of topic, content, hosting, and sound quality. And of course, each shares the various podcasts she or he currently listens to on a regular or semi-regular basis…and how and when they listen to them. They even discuss their work on The Comics Alternative and how their experiences as podcasters have affected the way they listen to (and critique) other podcasts. But overall, everyone has a great time getting together — the first time more than three cohosts appear on the same show! — and talking about a medium that has increasingly become a part of their lives. So sit back, fire up that listening device of choice, and enjoy the fun that is The Comics Alternative celebrating International Podcast Day. Wed, 30 Sep 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Get Listening! Today, September 30, is International Podcast Day! To celebrate the occasion the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics get together with some of the other cohosts of the show, Gwen Tarbox, Andy Wolverton, and Gene Kannenberg, Jr., to talk about podcasts and podcasting. As such, they don’t necessarily focus on comics podcasts — although podcasts about comics comes up often during the discussion — but instead, they share their insights and experiences concerning a wide variety of podcasts. For example, everybody begins by recounting the first podcasts they ever listened to, or what brought them to the medium. They also discuss how they discern podcasts in terms of topic, content, hosting, and sound quality. And of course, each shares the various podcasts she or he currently listens to on a regular or semi-regular basis…and how and when they listen to them. They even discuss their work on The Comics Alternative and how their experiences as podcasters have affected the way they listen to (and critique) other podcasts. But overall, everyone has a great time getting together — the first time more than three cohosts appear on the same show! — and talking about a medium that has increasingly become a part of their lives. So sit back, fire up that listening device of choice, and enjoy the fun that is The Comics Alternative celebrating International Podcast Day. Today, September 30, is International Podcast Day! To celebrate the occasion the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics get together with some of the other cohosts of the show, Gwen Tarbox, Andy Wolverton, and Gene Kannenberg, Jr., to talk about podcasts and podcasting. As such, they don’t necessarily focus on comics podcasts — although podcasts about comics comes up often during the discussion — but instead, they share their insights and experiences concerning a wide variety of podcasts. For example, everybody begins by recounting the first podcasts they ever listened to, or what brought them to the medium. They also discuss how they discern podcasts in terms of topic, content, hosting, and sound quality. And of course, each shares the various podcasts she or he currently listens to on a regular or semi-regular basis…and how and when they listen to them. They even discuss their work on The Comics Alternative and how their experiences as podcasters have affected the way they listen to (and critique) other podcasts. But overall, everyone has a great time getting together — the first time more than three cohosts appear on the same show! — and talking about a medium that has increasingly become a part of their lives. So sit back, fire up that listening device of choice, and enjoy the fun that is The Comics Alternative celebrating International Podcast Day.

]]> 5325 no Manga - Reviews of The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Omnibus 1 and One-Punch Man, Vols. 1 and 2 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Manga6.mp3 For the September episode of the manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two very different titles, although both heavily invested in popular genres. They begin with Eiji Otsuka and Housui Yamazaki's The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Ominibus 1 (Dark Horse Books), a different take on both horror and detective narratives. Although the English-language releases of this title began in 2006, Dark Horse has just this month published the first of the omnibus editions, one that collects the first three volumes of the series. The guys begin by describing the premise as a cross between supernatural horror and Scooby-Doo, where you have a bunch of young investigators, each with a particular set of skills informing their unique form of "detecting." (Derek also compares Otsuka's storylines to The Rockford Files, another series featuring an unlikely investigator constantly down on his luck.) Both enjoy the title well enough, although Shea is less impressed than is Derek, feeling that the routine becomes formulaic rather quickly and that the individual characters are never fully realized, at least in the segments featured in this initial omnibus edition. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first two volumes of One-Punch Man, a satiric series by the pseudonymous One with art by Yusuke Murata (VIZ Media). This began as a webcomic by One in 2009, but then Murata helped to remake the series a few years later, and VIZ Media's recent release of volumes 1 and 2 are the first print versions in English (although originally serialized in the digital Weekly Shonen Jump magazine). Both of the guys love One and Murata's humorous spin on the superhero and shonen formulas, although Derek wonders if the premise may soon wear thin (an inverse of what the guys felt about Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service). However, it is Murata's art that solidly captures the guys' attention. As a result, both Shea and Derek are interested in seeing how this series develops, especially if it continues to bring the keen genre-deconstructing insights found in the first two volumes. Tue, 29 Sep 2015 14:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Death Punches For the September episode of the manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two very different titles, although both heavily invested in popular genres. They begin with Eiji Otsuka and Housui Yamazaki's The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Ominibus 1 (Dark Horse Books), a different take on both horror and detective narratives. Although the English-language releases of this title began in 2006, Dark Horse has just this month published the first of the omnibus editions, one that collects the first three volumes of the series. The guys begin by describing the premise as a cross between supernatural horror and Scooby-Doo, where you have a bunch of young investigators, each with a particular set of skills informing their unique form of "detecting." (Derek also compares Otsuka's storylines to The Rockford Files, another series featuring an unlikely investigator constantly down on his luck.) Both enjoy the title well enough, although Shea is less impressed than is Derek, feeling that the routine becomes formulaic rather quickly and that the individual characters are never fully realized, at least in the segments featured in this initial omnibus edition. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first two volumes of One-Punch Man, a satiric series by the pseudonymous One with art by Yusuke Murata (VIZ Media). This began as a webcomic by One in 2009, but then Murata helped to remake the series a few years later, and VIZ Media's recent release of volumes 1 and 2 are the first print versions in English (although originally serialized in the digital Weekly Shonen Jump magazine). Both of the guys love One and Murata's humorous spin on the superhero and shonen formulas, although Derek wonders if the premise may soon wear thin (an inverse of what the guys felt about Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service). However, it is Murata's art that solidly captures the guys' attention. As a result, both Shea and Derek are interested in seeing how this series develops, especially if it continues to bring the keen genre-deconstructing insights found in the first two volumes. For the September episode of the manga series, Shea and Derek discuss two very different titles, although both heavily invested in popular genres. They begin with Eiji Otsuka and Housui Yamazaki's The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Ominibus 1 (Dark Horse Books), a different take on both horror and detective narratives. Although the English-language releases of this title began in 2006, Dark Horse has just this month published the first of the omnibus editions, one that collects the first three volumes of the series. The guys begin by describing the premise as a cross between supernatural horror and Scooby-Doo, where you have a bunch of young investigators, each with a particular set of skills informing their unique form of "detecting." (Derek also compares Otsuka's storylines to The Rockford Files, another series featuring an unlikely investigator constantly down on his luck.) Both enjoy the title well enough, although Shea is less impressed than is Derek, feeling that the routine becomes formulaic rather quickly and that the individual characters are never fully realized, at least in the segments featured in this initial omnibus edition. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first two volumes of One-Punch Man, a satiric series by the pseudonymous One with art by Yusuke Murata (VIZ Media). This began as a webcomic by One in 2009, but then Murata helped to remake the series a few years later, and VIZ Media's recent release of volumes 1 and 2 are the first print versions in English (although originally serialized in the digital Weekly Shonen Jump magazine). Both of the guys love One and Murata's humorous spin on the superhero and shonen formulas, although Derek wonders if the premise may soon wear thin (an inverse of what the guys felt about Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service). However, it is Murata's art that solidly captures the guys' attention. As a result, both Shea and Derek are interested in seeing how this series develops, especially if it continues to bring the keen genre-deconstructing insights found in the first two volumes.

]]> 4873 no Interviews - Dean Mullaney http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews59-Mullaney.mp3 On this episode of the interview series, Andy and Derek are happy to have as their guest Dean Mullaney, the editor of IDW’s the Library of American Comics and the EuroComics series. His most recent book, The King of the Comics: One Hundred Years of King Features Syndicate will be coming out next month, just in time for the world-famous syndicate’s centennial. Dean talks with the Two Guys about the process of gathering strips, his experiences digging through library archives, the importance of working with collectors and enthusiasts, and the challenges of culling the most representative selections for each of his volumes. His new King Features project is no exception, and in fact, Dean describes it as one of his most ambitious, and satisfying, collections to date. Coming in at over 300 pages, the book covers the entire history of the syndicate, even touching upon the early days of William Randolph Hearst’s newspapers. Derek and Andy also talk with Dean about a couple of his other recent works, Bravo for Adventure, Alex Toth’s magnum opus that has been collected in book form for the first time, and the second release in EuroComics’ definitive English-language editions of Hugo Pratt’s landmark series, Corto Maltese: Beyond the Windy Isles. Both speak to Mullaney’s passion for classic comics as well as his expertise as an editor/curator. Along the way, the guys also discuss Dean’s award-winning Genius Alex Toth series, the edited Terry and the Pirates volumes, and his seminal work at Eclipse Comics. This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in comics strips, comics history, and comics preservation. Mon, 28 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal It’s Good to Be the King On this episode of the interview series, Andy and Derek are happy to have as their guest Dean Mullaney, the editor of IDW’s the Library of American Comics and the EuroComics series. His most recent book, The King of the Comics: One Hundred Years of King Features Syndicate will be coming out next month, just in time for the world-famous syndicate’s centennial. Dean talks with the Two Guys about the process of gathering strips, his experiences digging through library archives, the importance of working with collectors and enthusiasts, and the challenges of culling the most representative selections for each of his volumes. His new King Features project is no exception, and in fact, Dean describes it as one of his most ambitious, and satisfying, collections to date. Coming in at over 300 pages, the book covers the entire history of the syndicate, even touching upon the early days of William Randolph Hearst’s newspapers. Derek and Andy also talk with Dean about a couple of his other recent works, Bravo for Adventure, Alex Toth’s magnum opus that has been collected in book form for the first time, and the second release in EuroComics’ definitive English-language editions of Hugo Pratt’s landmark series, Corto Maltese: Beyond the Windy Isles. Both speak to Mullaney’s passion for classic comics as well as his expertise as an editor/curator. Along the way, the guys also discuss Dean’s award-winning Genius Alex Toth series, the edited Terry and the Pirates volumes, and his seminal work at Eclipse Comics. This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in comics strips, comics history, and comics preservation. On this episode of the interview series, Andy and Derek are happy to have as their guest Dean Mullaney, the editor of IDW’s the Library of American Comics and the EuroComics series. His most recent book, The King of the Comics: One Hundred Years of King Features Syndicate will be coming out next month, just in time for the world-famous syndicate’s centennial. Dean talks with the Two Guys about the process of gathering strips, his experiences digging through library archives, the importance of working with collectors and enthusiasts, and the challenges of culling the most representative selections for each of his volumes. His new King Features project is no exception, and in fact, Dean describes it as one of his most ambitious, and satisfying, collections to date. Coming in at over 300 pages, the book covers the entire history of the syndicate, even touching upon the early days of William Randolph Hearst’s newspapers. Derek and Andy also talk with Dean about a couple of his other recent works, Bravo for Adventure, Alex Toth’s magnum opus that has been collected in book form for the first time, and the second release in EuroComics’ definitive English-language editions of Hugo Pratt’s landmark series, Corto Maltese: Beyond the Windy Isles. Both speak to Mullaney’s passion for classic comics as well as his expertise as an editor/curator. Along the way, the guys also discuss Dean’s award-winning Genius Alex Toth series, the edited Terry and the Pirates volumes, and his seminal work at Eclipse Comics. This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in comics strips, comics history, and comics preservation.

]]> 4039 no On Location - Talking with Creators at SPX 2015, Pt. 3 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation24.mp3 And here it is, the third (and final) of the three on-location shows of interviews Derek and Andy W. conducted while at last weekend's Small Press Expo. At the event, the Two Guys spoke with a number of creators attending SPX, interviewing each for anywhere from 5 to around 20 minutes. In some cases, the guys are quite familiar with the artist's works (and may even have reviewed their comics on past episodes). At other times, Andy or Derek may not know the work of the creator, but use the interview opportunity to learn more about the artist. In this episode, you will hear conversations with Amy Godfrey & Patrick Holt, Will Dinski, R. Sikoryak, Jay Hosler, Nick Bertozzi, Jason Little, Simon Rinehardt, and Mickey Zacchilli. The exhibition hall of SPX 2015 was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys addressed the sound challenges as best they could. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times -- such as the interviews with R. Sikoryak, Nick Bertozzi, and Jason Little -- they were able to find a space away from the exhibition floor where the sound was less chaotic. The first two segments of the guys' on-location interview shows from SPX went up on Thursday and on Friday. And be sure to check out Derek's much longer conversation with Bill Griffith that was released separately. Sat, 26 Sep 2015 16:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Still More Small Talk And here it is, the third (and final) of the three on-location shows of interviews Derek and Andy W. conducted while at last weekend's Small Press Expo. At the event, the Two Guys spoke with a number of creators attending SPX, interviewing each for anywhere from 5 to around 20 minutes. In some cases, the guys are quite familiar with the artist's works (and may even have reviewed their comics on past episodes). At other times, Andy or Derek may not know the work of the creator, but use the interview opportunity to learn more about the artist. In this episode, you will hear conversations with Amy Godfrey & Patrick Holt, Will Dinski, R. Sikoryak, Jay Hosler, Nick Bertozzi, Jason Little, Simon Rinehardt, and Mickey Zacchilli. The exhibition hall of SPX 2015 was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys addressed the sound challenges as best they could. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times -- such as the interviews with R. Sikoryak, Nick Bertozzi, and Jason Little -- they were able to find a space away from the exhibition floor where the sound was less chaotic. The first two segments of the guys' on-location interview shows from SPX went up on Thursday and on Friday. And be sure to check out Derek's much longer conversation with Bill Griffith that was released separately. And here it is, the third (and final) of the three on-location shows of interviews Derek and Andy W. conducted while at last weekend's Small Press Expo. At the event, the Two Guys spoke with a number of creators attending SPX, interviewing each for anywhere from 5 to around 20 minutes. In some cases, the guys are quite familiar with the artist's works (and may even have reviewed their comics on past episodes). At other times, Andy or Derek may not know the work of the creator, but use the interview opportunity to learn more about the artist. In this episode, you will hear conversations with Amy Godfrey & Patrick Holt, Will Dinski, R. Sikoryak, Jay Hosler, Nick Bertozzi, Jason Little, Simon Rinehardt, and Mickey Zacchilli. The exhibition hall of SPX 2015 was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys addressed the sound challenges as best they could. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times -- such as the interviews with R. Sikoryak, Nick Bertozzi, and Jason Little -- they were able to find a space away from the exhibition floor where the sound was less chaotic. The first two segments of the guys' on-location interview shows from SPX went up on Thursday and on Friday. And be sure to check out Derek's much longer conversation with Bill Griffith that was released separately.

]]> 5953 no On Location - Talking with Creators at SPX 2015, Pt. 2 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation23.mp3 This is the second of three on-location interview shows based on Derek and Andy W.’s attendance at last weekend’s Small Press Expo. At the event, the Two Guys took the opportunity to talk with several creators exhibiting at SPX, interviewing each for anywhere from 5 to around 20 minutes. In some cases, the guys are quite familiar with the artist’s works (and may even have reviewed their comics on past episodes). At other times, Andy or Derek may not know the work of the creator, but use the interview opportunity to learn more about the artist. In this episode, you will hear conversations with Dakota McFadzean, Andy Warner, Jonathan Baylis, Amelia Onorato, Sam Spina, Keith Knight, Gregory Benton, and Dean Haspiel. The exhibition hall of SPX 2015 was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys addressed the sound challenges as best they could. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times — such as the interviews with Gregory Benton and Dean Haspiel — they were able to find a space off the floor where the sound was less chaotic. The final on-location interview episode will be released on Saturday. The first was published yesterday. And be sure to check out Derek’s much longer conversation with Bill Griffith that was released separately. Fri, 25 Sep 2015 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Small Talk This is the second of three on-location interview shows based on Derek and Andy W.’s attendance at last weekend’s Small Press Expo. At the event, the Two Guys took the opportunity to talk with several creators exhibiting at SPX, interviewing each for anywhere from 5 to around 20 minutes. In some cases, the guys are quite familiar with the artist’s works (and may even have reviewed their comics on past episodes). At other times, Andy or Derek may not know the work of the creator, but use the interview opportunity to learn more about the artist. In this episode, you will hear conversations with Dakota McFadzean, Andy Warner, Jonathan Baylis, Amelia Onorato, Sam Spina, Keith Knight, Gregory Benton, and Dean Haspiel. The exhibition hall of SPX 2015 was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys addressed the sound challenges as best they could. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times — such as the interviews with Gregory Benton and Dean Haspiel — they were able to find a space off the floor where the sound was less chaotic. The final on-location interview episode will be released on Saturday. The first was published yesterday. And be sure to check out Derek’s much longer conversation with Bill Griffith that was released separately. This is the second of three on-location interview shows based on Derek and Andy W.’s attendance at last weekend’s Small Press Expo. At the event, the Two Guys took the opportunity to talk with several creators exhibiting at SPX, interviewing each for anywhere from 5 to around 20 minutes. In some cases, the guys are quite familiar with the artist’s works (and may even have reviewed their comics on past episodes). At other times, Andy or Derek may not know the work of the creator, but use the interview opportunity to learn more about the artist. In this episode, you will hear conversations with Dakota McFadzean, Andy Warner, Jonathan Baylis, Amelia Onorato, Sam Spina, Keith Knight, Gregory Benton, and Dean Haspiel. The exhibition hall of SPX 2015 was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys addressed the sound challenges as best they could. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times — such as the interviews with Gregory Benton and Dean Haspiel — they were able to find a space off the floor where the sound was less chaotic. The final on-location interview episode will be released on Saturday. The first was published yesterday. And be sure to check out Derek’s much longer conversation with Bill Griffith that was released separately.

]]> 4073 no On Location - Talking with Creators at SPX 2015, Pt. 1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation22.mp3 Last weekend, Andy W. and Derek attended Small Press Expo in Bethesda, MD. While there, they were able to interview a variety of creators about their recent releases, their larger body of work, and any future projects they may be working on. The result was an impressive collection of interviews -- 28 in all -- each of which lasted from anywhere between 5 minutes to over 20 minutes. The guys have now edited these conversations and are presenting them in a series of three on-location interview episodes conducted at SPX. In this first installment, Derek and Andy talk with Derf Backderf, Theora Kvitka, Ethan Riley, Miss Lasko-Gross, Stuart & Kathryn Immonen, Jennifer Jordan & Sophie Goldstein, Gina Wynbrandt, Julian Hanshaw, Kristen Gudsnuk, Rune Ryberg, Ben Towle, Cole Closser, and Meags Fitzgerald. The exhibition hall of SPX was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys persevered, despite the sound challenges. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times -- such as the interviews with Cole Closser and Meages Fitzgerald -- they were able to find a space outside of the hall that demonstrated less auditory chaos. Two other episodes of on-location interviews will be released on Friday and Saturday. Derek's much longer conversation with Bill Griffith was released separately. But for now, enjoy the smooth, creamy, indie goodness of today's installment. Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Small Talk Last weekend, Andy W. and Derek attended Small Press Expo in Bethesda, MD. While there, they were able to interview a variety of creators about their recent releases, their larger body of work, and any future projects they may be working on. The result was an impressive collection of interviews -- 28 in all -- each of which lasted from anywhere between 5 minutes to over 20 minutes. The guys have now edited these conversations and are presenting them in a series of three on-location interview episodes conducted at SPX. In this first installment, Derek and Andy talk with Derf Backderf, Theora Kvitka, Ethan Riley, Miss Lasko-Gross, Stuart & Kathryn Immonen, Jennifer Jordan & Sophie Goldstein, Gina Wynbrandt, Julian Hanshaw, Kristen Gudsnuk, Rune Ryberg, Ben Towle, Cole Closser, and Meags Fitzgerald. The exhibition hall of SPX was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys persevered, despite the sound challenges. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times -- such as the interviews with Cole Closser and Meages Fitzgerald -- they were able to find a space outside of the hall that demonstrated less auditory chaos. Two other episodes of on-location interviews will be released on Friday and Saturday. Derek's much longer conversation with Bill Griffith was released separately. But for now, enjoy the smooth, creamy, indie goodness of today's installment. Last weekend, Andy W. and Derek attended Small Press Expo in Bethesda, MD. While there, they were able to interview a variety of creators about their recent releases, their larger body of work, and any future projects they may be working on. The result was an impressive collection of interviews -- 28 in all -- each of which lasted from anywhere between 5 minutes to over 20 minutes. The guys have now edited these conversations and are presenting them in a series of three on-location interview episodes conducted at SPX. In this first installment, Derek and Andy talk with Derf Backderf, Theora Kvitka, Ethan Riley, Miss Lasko-Gross, Stuart & Kathryn Immonen, Jennifer Jordan & Sophie Goldstein, Gina Wynbrandt, Julian Hanshaw, Kristen Gudsnuk, Rune Ryberg, Ben Towle, Cole Closser, and Meags Fitzgerald. The exhibition hall of SPX was packed, and, as a result, the din of the crowd was at times difficult to talk over. But the Two Guys persevered, despite the sound challenges. Sometimes they talked with the creators at their tables, and at other times -- such as the interviews with Cole Closser and Meages Fitzgerald -- they were able to find a space outside of the hall that demonstrated less auditory chaos. Two other episodes of on-location interviews will be released on Friday and Saturday. Derek's much longer conversation with Bill Griffith was released separately. But for now, enjoy the smooth, creamy, indie goodness of today's installment.

]]> 6357 yes Episode 154 - SPX 2015 and the Ignatz Awards http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-154.mp3 This week's episode of the podcast is special, and in a number of ways. First, Derek and Andy W. record the show "live" from a common location and not from a distance via Skype. Also, they discuss their experiences at this year's Small Press Expo, which took place September 19-20. Most importantly, though, this episode is notable for its focus on the 2015 Ignatz Awards, the first time that the Two Guys have discussed this industry recognition in any in-depth manner.  In fact, almost the entire episode is devoted to the Ignatz nominees, a substantial number of texts, and as a result, this show goes longer than usual. And they break up recording the show over a two-day period: the first third after day one of SPX (and before the Ignatz winners have been announced), and the final segment after the event has ended. Andy and Derek begin by sharing some of their experiences at SPX, including the people they met, the creators they talked with, the small press publishers who attended, and the general demographics of the crowd (this was a con that definitely skewed young). Then they go into a rundown of all the 2015 Ignatz Award nominees, discussing the nine different categories and briefly highlighting the five nominees under each. There are some categories, such as "Outstanding Anthology or Collection," that the guys find a little problematic. Both Andy and Derek feel that a collection by a single artist and an anthology comprising a variety are completely different beasts and, as such, shouldn't be clumped together in this manner. There are others, including "Promising New Talent" and "Outstanding Comic," that would benefit by clearer context. (For example, what exactly defines a "new talent," and how   might an "outstanding comic" be distinguished from an "outstanding graphic novel"?) In the final segments of the episode -- the last 2/3 that was recorded after that final day of SPX -- Derek and Andy go into detail about many of the titles nominated for an Ignatz. They list the winners of each category, which were made public on Saturday night of the con, and provide a few observations. The Ignatz Awards winners are chosen by popular vote, anyone who attends the event can cast a ballot, so the Two Guys with PhDs take some of the results with a sizable grain of salt. For example, they're surprised by the fact that neither Noah Van Sciver and Ethan Riley (both highly accomplished and nominated multiple times) received anything. Or that Drawn and Quarterly: 25 Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels was shut out. Or how Sophia Foster-Dimino came out as she did. Still, one of the most notable takeaways from this year's ceremony is the fact that women completely swept the awards, so this is definitely a year of significance. After a brief discussion of the winners, Andy and Derek get into a detailed analysis of may of the nominated titles, especially focusing on those works they've not yet discussed on previous episodes. These include Ed Luce's Wuvable Oaf (Fantagraphics), Jillian Tamaki's SuperMutant Magic Academy (Drawn and Quarterly) and "Sex Coven" (from Frontier #7, published by Youth in Decline), M. Dean's K.M. & R.P. & MCMLXXI (1971), Walter Scott's Wendy (Koyama Press), Gina Wyndbrandt's Big Pussy (2D Cloud), Jason Little's Borb (Uncivilized Books), John Porcellino's King Cat #75, and Georgia Webber's Dumb series. There are so many great titles to cover, and as a result, the show goes longer than the guys anticipated. But that's OK. SPX and the Ignatz Awards only come once a year, so why not take advantage of this celebrated occasion? Wed, 23 Sep 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Smaller Is Better This week's episode of the podcast is special, and in a number of ways. First, Derek and Andy W. record the show "live" from a common location and not from a distance via Skype. Also, they discuss their experiences at this year's Small Press Expo, which took place September 19-20. Most importantly, though, this episode is notable for its focus on the 2015 Ignatz Awards, the first time that the Two Guys have discussed this industry recognition in any in-depth manner.  In fact, almost the entire episode is devoted to the Ignatz nominees, a substantial number of texts, and as a result, this show goes longer than usual. And they break up recording the show over a two-day period: the first third after day one of SPX (and before the Ignatz winners have been announced), and the final segment after the event has ended. Andy and Derek begin by sharing some of their experiences at SPX, including the people they met, the creators they talked with, the small press publishers who attended, and the general demographics of the crowd (this was a con that definitely skewed young). Then they go into a rundown of all the 2015 Ignatz Award nominees, discussing the nine different categories and briefly highlighting the five nominees under each. There are some categories, such as "Outstanding Anthology or Collection," that the guys find a little problematic. Both Andy and Derek feel that a collection by a single artist and an anthology comprising a variety are completely different beasts and, as such, shouldn't be clumped together in this manner. There are others, including "Promising New Talent" and "Outstanding Comic," that would benefit by clearer context. (For example, what exactly defines a "new talent," and how   might an "outstanding comic" be distinguished from an "outstanding graphic novel"?) In the final segments of the episode -- the last 2/3 that was recorded after that final day of SPX -- Derek and Andy go into detail about many of the titles nominated for an Ignatz. They list the winners of each category, which were made public on Saturday night of the con, and provide a few observations. The Ignatz Awards winners are chosen by popular vote, anyone who attends the event can cast a ballot, so the Two Guys with PhDs take some of the results with a sizable grain of salt. For example, they're surprised by the fact that neither Noah Van Sciver and Ethan Riley (both highly accomplished and nominated multiple times) received anything. Or that Drawn and Quarterly: 25 Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels was shut out. Or how Sophia Foster-Dimino came out as she did. Still, one of the most notable takeaways from this year's ceremony is the fact that women completely swept the awards, so this is definitely a year of significance. After a brief discussion of the winners, Andy and Derek get into a detailed analysis of may of the nominated titles, especially focusing on those works they've not yet discussed on previous episodes. These include Ed Luce's Wuvable Oaf (Fantagraphics), Jillian Tamaki's SuperMutant Magic Academy (Drawn and Quarterly) and "Sex Coven" (from Frontier #7, published by Youth in Decline), M. Dean's K.M. & R.P. & MCMLXXI (1971), Walter Scott's Wendy (Koyama Press), Gina Wyndbrandt's Big Pussy (2D Cloud), Jason Little's Borb (Uncivilized Books), John Porcellino's King Cat #75, and Georgia Webber's Dumb series. There are so many great titles to cover, and as a result, the show goes longer than the guys anticipated. But that's OK. SPX and the Ignatz Awards only come once a year, so why not take advantage of this celebrated occasion? This week's episode of the podcast is special, and in a number of ways. First, Derek and Andy W. record the show "live" from a common location and not from a distance via Skype. Also, they discuss their experiences at this year's Small Press Expo, which took place September 19-20. Most importantly, though, this episode is notable for its focus on the 2015 Ignatz Awards, the first time that the Two Guys have discussed this industry recognition in any in-depth manner.  In fact, almost the entire episode is devoted to the Ignatz nominees, a substantial number of texts, and as a result, this show goes longer than usual. And they break up recording the show over a two-day period: the first third after day one of SPX (and before the Ignatz winners have been announced), and the final segment after the event has ended. Andy and Derek begin by sharing some of their experiences at SPX, including the people they met, the creators they talked with, the small press publishers who attended, and the general demographics of the crowd (this was a con that definitely skewed young). Then they go into a rundown of all the 2015 Ignatz Award nominees, discussing the nine different categories and briefly highlighting the five nominees under each. There are some categories, such as "Outstanding Anthology or Collection," that the guys find a little problematic. Both Andy and Derek feel that a collection by a single artist and an anthology comprising a variety are completely different beasts and, as such, shouldn't be clumped together in this manner. There are others, including "Promising New Talent" and "Outstanding Comic," that would benefit by clearer context. (For example, what exactly defines a "new talent," and how   might an "outstanding comic" be distinguished from an "outstanding graphic novel"?) In the final segments of the episode -- the last 2/3 that was recorded after that final day of SPX -- Derek and Andy go into detail about many of the titles nominated for an Ignatz. They list the winners of each category, which were made public on Saturday night of the con, and provide a few observations. The Ignatz Awards winners are chosen by popular vote, anyone who attends the event can cast a ballot, so the Two Guys with PhDs take some of the results with a sizable grain of salt. For example, they're surprised by the fact that neither Noah Van Sciver and Ethan Riley (both highly accomplished and nominated multiple times) received anything. Or that Drawn and Quarterly: 25 Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels was shut out. Or how Sophia Foster-Dimino came out as she did. Still, one of the most notable takeaways from this year's ceremony is the fact that women completely swept the awards, so this is definitely a year of significance. After a brief discussion of the winners, Andy and Derek get into a detailed analysis of may of the nominated titles, especially focusing on those works they've not yet discussed on previous episodes. These include Ed Luce's Wuvable Oaf (Fantagraphics), Jillian Tamaki's SuperMutant Magic Academy (Drawn and Quarterly) and "Sex Coven" (from Frontier #7, published by Youth in Decline), M. Dean's K.M. & R.P. & MCMLXXI (1971), Walter Scott's Wendy (Koyama Press), Gina Wyndbrandt's Big Pussy (2D Cloud), Jason Little's Borb (Uncivilized Books), John Porcellino's King Cat #75, and Georgia Webber's Dumb series. There are so many great titles to cover, and as a result, the show goes longer than the guys anticipated. But that's OK. SPX and the Ignatz Awards only come once a year, so why not take advantage of this celebrated occasion?

]]> 8833 no Interviews - Bill Griffith http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews58-Griffith.mp3 While at this year's Small Press Expo, Derek had the opportunity to talk with the great Bill Griffith, whose new book from Fantagraphics, Invisible Ink: My Mother's Secret Love Affair with a Famous Cartoonist, debuted at the event and will soon be available in stores everywhere. As the subtitle suggests, this is a different kind of book for Griffith, a radical departure from his syndicated Zippy strip. Not only is it a deeply personal and moving memoir, but it's his first long-form work in comics. It is a narrative of his mother's sixteen-year love affair with a prolific and recognizable cartoonist of the of the 1950s and 1960s. But even more than that, it's Bill's own story about the discover of his mother's hidden secret -- he learned about the affair in 1972, right after the death of his father -- and his ongoing attempts to undercover the details and understand the dynamics of a family life now long behind him. Indeed, Invisible Ink can be read as a detective narrative, with its autobiographic protagonist visiting aged relatives, investigating long-forgotten documents, and putting together the pieces of his parents' lives that may never render a complete picture. Perhaps most notable, Invisible Ink is a book about family and memory. Time itself stands as a central focus of the text, with Griffith juxtaposing past and present events in a very fluid and psychologically revealing manner. Dreams and fantasies become tangible. Reminiscences define current reality. In all, it is a narrative that is Faulknerian in scope. In his interview with Derek, Griffith discusses the circumstances surrounding Invisible Ink and the history of its gestation. But the conversation doesn't end with the new book. The two also discuss Bill's time in underground comix, his world-famous Zippy the Pinhead, the unlikely backstory of Zippy's syndication with King Features, and the eventual winding down of the strip's current Dingburg run (which began in 2007). Equal parts history, insights, and laughter, Derek's interview with Bill Griffith was perhaps the highlight of his time at SPX 2015. Yow! Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "All happy families are alike..." While at this year's Small Press Expo, Derek had the opportunity to talk with the great Bill Griffith, whose new book from Fantagraphics, Invisible Ink: My Mother's Secret Love Affair with a Famous Cartoonist, debuted at the event and will soon be available in stores everywhere. As the subtitle suggests, this is a different kind of book for Griffith, a radical departure from his syndicated Zippy strip. Not only is it a deeply personal and moving memoir, but it's his first long-form work in comics. It is a narrative of his mother's sixteen-year love affair with a prolific and recognizable cartoonist of the of the 1950s and 1960s. But even more than that, it's Bill's own story about the discover of his mother's hidden secret -- he learned about the affair in 1972, right after the death of his father -- and his ongoing attempts to undercover the details and understand the dynamics of a family life now long behind him. Indeed, Invisible Ink can be read as a detective narrative, with its autobiographic protagonist visiting aged relatives, investigating long-forgotten documents, and putting together the pieces of his parents' lives that may never render a complete picture. Perhaps most notable, Invisible Ink is a book about family and memory. Time itself stands as a central focus of the text, with Griffith juxtaposing past and present events in a very fluid and psychologically revealing manner. Dreams and fantasies become tangible. Reminiscences define current reality. In all, it is a narrative that is Faulknerian in scope. In his interview with Derek, Griffith discusses the circumstances surrounding Invisible Ink and the history of its gestation. But the conversation doesn't end with the new book. The two also discuss Bill's time in underground comix, his world-famous Zippy the Pinhead, the unlikely backstory of Zippy's syndication with King Features, and the eventual winding down of the strip's current Dingburg run (which began in 2007). Equal parts history, insights, and laughter, Derek's interview with Bill Griffith was perhaps the highlight of his time at SPX 2015. Yow! While at this year's Small Press Expo, Derek had the opportunity to talk with the great Bill Griffith, whose new book from Fantagraphics, Invisible Ink: My Mother's Secret Love Affair with a Famous Cartoonist, debuted at the event and will soon be available in stores everywhere. As the subtitle suggests, this is a different kind of book for Griffith, a radical departure from his syndicated Zippy strip. Not only is it a deeply personal and moving memoir, but it's his first long-form work in comics. It is a narrative of his mother's sixteen-year love affair with a prolific and recognizable cartoonist of the of the 1950s and 1960s. But even more than that, it's Bill's own story about the discover of his mother's hidden secret -- he learned about the affair in 1972, right after the death of his father -- and his ongoing attempts to undercover the details and understand the dynamics of a family life now long behind him. Indeed, Invisible Ink can be read as a detective narrative, with its autobiographic protagonist visiting aged relatives, investigating long-forgotten documents, and putting together the pieces of his parents' lives that may never render a complete picture. Perhaps most notable, Invisible Ink is a book about family and memory. Time itself stands as a central focus of the text, with Griffith juxtaposing past and present events in a very fluid and psychologically revealing manner. Dreams and fantasies become tangible. Reminiscences define current reality. In all, it is a narrative that is Faulknerian in scope. In his interview with Derek, Griffith discusses the circumstances surrounding Invisible Ink and the history of its gestation. But the conversation doesn't end with the new book. The two also discuss Bill's time in underground comix, his world-famous Zippy the Pinhead, the unlikely backstory of Zippy's syndication with King Features, and the eventual winding down of the strip's current Dingburg run (which began in 2007). Equal parts history, insights, and laughter, Derek's interview with Bill Griffith was perhaps the highlight of his time at SPX 2015. Yow!

]]> 6356 no Young Readers - Reviews of Baba Yaga’s Assistant and Sunny Side Up http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_YoungReaders1.mp3 The Comics Alternative is happy to feature a brand new monthly series, this one devoted to comics and graphic novels for young readers. The cohosts for this show are Gwen Tarbox and Andy Wolverton. Longtime listeners of the podcast will know that Andy is an old hand at cohosting duties, filling in for Andy Kunka occasionally and, up until recently, being the cohost on the monthly webcomics series. (In fact, Andy left the webcomics show so that he could pursue this new idea.) Gwen is a professor of children's and young adult narrative, especially as it applies to comics. This is her first time cohosting a podcast, and everyone at The Comics Alternative is excited about having her on the team. Now, every month Gwen and Andy will look at two recent comics written for a young audience, one for teenage or young adult readers and another title devoted to younger children. For their inaugural episode of Two PhDs Talking About Comics for Young Readers, discuss recent developments in comics for children and teenagers, and they reference Raising a Reader! How Comics and Graphic Novels Can Help Your Kids Love To Read! This resource, written by Dr. Meryl Jaffe and illustrated by Raina Telgemeier and Matthew Holm, provides parents and educators with advice on how to share comics with children. (A shorter version of this text is available on the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s website.) Gwen and Andy also talk about connecting kids with comics, beginning with an exploration of recommended comics lists put out by the Eisner Awards committee and the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). For the last few years, the Eisner Awards have included categories for early readers, kids, and teens, and YALSA, a part of the American Library Association, publishes lists of recommended graphic novels for middle grade and high school readers. During the review section of the program, Andy and Gwen discuss Baba Yaga’s Assistant by Marika McCool and Emily Carroll (Candlewick Press). Both are impressed by the depiction of Masha, a young woman who comes to terms with changes in her family life and learns to stand up for herself by matching wits with Baba Yaga, a character who walks off of the pages of Slavic folklore and into Masha’s life. Gwen and Andy discuss the text’s effective use of flashbacks and embedded narratives, and praise Carroll’s use of color to evoke mood and to signal shifts between past and present. Next, they talk about the semi-autobiographical graphic novel Sunny Side Up (Graphix), written by Jennifer Holm and with art by Matthew Holm, the sister/brother team behind such popular children’s comics series as Babymouse and Squish. Noting that Sunny Side Up contains much to interest both adult and child readers, they focus on the way that the Holms capture many features of life in the 1970s while telling a story with contemporary relevance about the impact of substance abuse on a close-knit family. Although the text deals with serious subject matter, the Holms employ a gentle humor and a relatable child protagonist who, like Masha in Baba Yaga’s Assistant, learns to confront her fears and to turn a summer long visit with her grandfather into a journey of discovery. Parents will enjoy the many references to 1970s popular culture, and kids will learn about the transformative power of comics in the lives of Sunny and her friend Buzz. All in all, both Gwen and Andy bring their rich experiences -- she as an instructor and he as a librarian -- into their analyses, and this first show is just a small taste of many insights and recommendations to come. This is a must-listen podcast series for every teacher, librarian, parent, and reader of comics intended for younger audiences. Fri, 18 Sep 2015 10:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Something for the Kids The Comics Alternative is happy to feature a brand new monthly series, this one devoted to comics and graphic novels for young readers. The cohosts for this show are Gwen Tarbox and Andy Wolverton. Longtime listeners of the podcast will know that Andy is an old hand at cohosting duties, filling in for Andy Kunka occasionally and, up until recently, being the cohost on the monthly webcomics series. (In fact, Andy left the webcomics show so that he could pursue this new idea.) Gwen is a professor of children's and young adult narrative, especially as it applies to comics. This is her first time cohosting a podcast, and everyone at The Comics Alternative is excited about having her on the team. Now, every month Gwen and Andy will look at two recent comics written for a young audience, one for teenage or young adult readers and another title devoted to younger children. For their inaugural episode of Two PhDs Talking About Comics for Young Readers, discuss recent developments in comics for children and teenagers, and they reference Raising a Reader! How Comics and Graphic Novels Can Help Your Kids Love To Read! This resource, written by Dr. Meryl Jaffe and illustrated by Raina Telgemeier and Matthew Holm, provides parents and educators with advice on how to share comics with children. (A shorter version of this text is available on the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s website.) Gwen and Andy also talk about connecting kids with comics, beginning with an exploration of recommended comics lists put out by the Eisner Awards committee and the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). For the last few years, the Eisner Awards have included categories for early readers, kids, and teens, and YALSA, a part of the American Library Association, publishes lists of recommended graphic novels for middle grade and high school readers. During the review section of the program, Andy and Gwen discuss Baba Yaga’s Assistant by Marika McCool and Emily Carroll (Candlewick Press). Both are impressed by the depiction of Masha, a young woman who comes to terms with changes in her family life and learns to stand up for herself by matching wits with Baba Yaga, a character who walks off of the pages of Slavic folklore and into Masha’s life. Gwen and Andy discuss the text’s effective use of flashbacks and embedded narratives, and praise Carroll’s use of color to evoke mood and to signal shifts between past and present. Next, they talk about the semi-autobiographical graphic novel Sunny Side Up (Graphix), written by Jennifer Holm and with art by Matthew Holm, the sister/brother team behind such popular children’s comics series as Babymouse and Squish. Noting that Sunny Side Up contains much to interest both adult and child readers, they focus on the way that the Holms capture many features of life in the 1970s while telling a story with contemporary relevance about the impact of substance abuse on a close-knit family. Although the text deals with serious subject matter, the Holms employ a gentle humor and a relatable child protagonist who, like Masha in Baba Yaga’s Assistant, learns to confront her fears and to turn a summer long visit with her grandfather into a journey of discovery. Parents will enjoy the many references to 1970s popular culture, and kids will learn about the transformative power of comics in the lives of Sunny and her friend Buzz. All in all, both Gwen and Andy bring their rich experiences -- she as an instructor and he as a librarian -- into their analyses, and this first show is just a small taste of many insights and recommendations to come. This is a must-listen podcast series for every teacher, librarian, parent, and reader of comics intended for younger audiences. The Comics Alternative is happy to feature a brand new monthly series, this one devoted to comics and graphic novels for young readers. The cohosts for this show are Gwen Tarbox and Andy Wolverton. Longtime listeners of the podcast will know that Andy is an old hand at cohosting duties, filling in for Andy Kunka occasionally and, up until recently, being the cohost on the monthly webcomics series. (In fact, Andy left the webcomics show so that he could pursue this new idea.) Gwen is a professor of children's and young adult narrative, especially as it applies to comics. This is her first time cohosting a podcast, and everyone at The Comics Alternative is excited about having her on the team. Now, every month Gwen and Andy will look at two recent comics written for a young audience, one for teenage or young adult readers and another title devoted to younger children. For their inaugural episode of Two PhDs Talking About Comics for Young Readers, discuss recent developments in comics for children and teenagers, and they reference Raising a Reader! How Comics and Graphic Novels Can Help Your Kids Love To Read! This resource, written by Dr. Meryl Jaffe and illustrated by Raina Telgemeier and Matthew Holm, provides parents and educators with advice on how to share comics with children. (A shorter version of this text is available on the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s website.) Gwen and Andy also talk about connecting kids with comics, beginning with an exploration of recommended comics lists put out by the Eisner Awards committee and the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). For the last few years, the Eisner Awards have included categories for early readers, kids, and teens, and YALSA, a part of the American Library Association, publishes lists of recommended graphic novels for middle grade and high school readers. During the review section of the program, Andy and Gwen discuss Baba Yaga’s Assistant by Marika McCool and Emily Carroll (Candlewick Press). Both are impressed by the depiction of Masha, a young woman who comes to terms with changes in her family life and learns to stand up for herself by matching wits with Baba Yaga, a character who walks off of the pages of Slavic folklore and into Masha’s life. Gwen and Andy discuss the text’s effective use of flashbacks and embedded narratives, and praise Carroll’s use of color to evoke mood and to signal shifts between past and present. Next, they talk about the semi-autobiographical graphic novel Sunny Side Up (Graphix), written by Jennifer Holm and with art by Matthew Holm, the sister/brother team behind such popular children’s comics series as Babymouse and Squish. Noting that Sunny Side Up contains much to interest both adult and child readers, they focus on the way that the Holms capture many features of life in the 1970s while telling a story with contemporary relevance about the impact of substance abuse on a close-knit family. Although the text deals with serious subject matter, the Holms employ a gentle humor and a relatable child protagonist who, like Masha in Baba Yaga’s Assistant, learns to confront her fears and to turn a summer long visit with her grandfather into a journey of discovery. Parents will enjoy the many references to 1970s popular culture, and kids will learn about the transformative power of comics in the lives of Sunny and her friend Buzz. All in all, both Gwen and Andy bring their rich experiences -- she as an instructor and he as a librarian -- into their analyses, and this first show is just a small taste of many insights and recommendations to come. This is a must-listen podcast series for every teacher, librarian, parent, and reader of comics intended for younger audiences.

]]> 4241 no Episode 153 - Reviews of The Dharma Punks, My Hot Date, Tokyo Ghost #1, and FutureFantasteek! #16 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-153.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics explore four new titles, each quite different one from the other. They begin with the new graphic novel from New Zealand creator Ant Sang, The Dharma Punks (Conundrum Press). On the surface it is a story about coming to terms with death, but there's much more going on in this 415-page book. In fact, this is one of the most ambitious narratives the guys have encountered so far this year, and certainly the most philosophical. Its protagonist, Chopstick, tries to comes to grips with the suicide of a close friend and what that loss means in his own life, while at the same time participating in an anarchist act against a corporate franchise. The events in the book take place roughly over a two-day period, but one of strengths of this narrative is how Sang manipulates time in a Faulkner-like manner, making the past ever-present. This is a rich and complex text, and at times Gene and Derek feel at a loss trying to put the gist of The Dharma Punks into words for an audio podcast. Next, the guys take on a much more constrained narrative, but one that is nonetheless multifaceted in its own ways, Noah Van Sciver's My Hot Date (Kilgore Books). This is an autobiographical comic, and as the title suggests, it's about a date that the fourteen-year-old Noah has with someone he met via America Online. Van Sciver has written short memoir-inspired stories in the past, but this is the longest, and definitely the most humorously self-deprecating, that he's produced to date. This is just one of the many comics that Van Sciver has released over the past year, many of which are published through Kilgore Books...a growing presences in the Two Guys' arsenal of go-to small publishers. After that, Derek and Gene turn their attention to the first issue in Rick Remender and Sean Murphy's new series from Image Comics, Tokyo Ghost. This is a futuristic story that takes as its premise the overriding and ever-present impact of on-demand digital culture in our lives. This inaugural issue does a fine job of setting up this narrative world, but Gene wonders if the nonstop action and complex visuals may be too much at times. Lastly, the guys take a brief look at an issue of an online zine they have just discovered, Jackie Batey's FutureFantasteek! Issue #16 was released at the beginning of 2015, and while the latest installment can stand on its own, Derek and Gene suggest that the title can best be appreciated when read over the course of its run. For those with a diverse taste in comics, this episode is definitely for you! Wed, 16 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Life, the Universe, and Everything This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics explore four new titles, each quite different one from the other. They begin with the new graphic novel from New Zealand creator Ant Sang, The Dharma Punks (Conundrum Press). On the surface it is a story about coming to terms with death, but there's much more going on in this 415-page book. In fact, this is one of the most ambitious narratives the guys have encountered so far this year, and certainly the most philosophical. Its protagonist, Chopstick, tries to comes to grips with the suicide of a close friend and what that loss means in his own life, while at the same time participating in an anarchist act against a corporate franchise. The events in the book take place roughly over a two-day period, but one of strengths of this narrative is how Sang manipulates time in a Faulkner-like manner, making the past ever-present. This is a rich and complex text, and at times Gene and Derek feel at a loss trying to put the gist of The Dharma Punks into words for an audio podcast. Next, the guys take on a much more constrained narrative, but one that is nonetheless multifaceted in its own ways, Noah Van Sciver's My Hot Date (Kilgore Books). This is an autobiographical comic, and as the title suggests, it's about a date that the fourteen-year-old Noah has with someone he met via America Online. Van Sciver has written short memoir-inspired stories in the past, but this is the longest, and definitely the most humorously self-deprecating, that he's produced to date. This is just one of the many comics that Van Sciver has released over the past year, many of which are published through Kilgore Books...a growing presences in the Two Guys' arsenal of go-to small publishers. After that, Derek and Gene turn their attention to the first issue in Rick Remender and Sean Murphy's new series from Image Comics, Tokyo Ghost. This is a futuristic story that takes as its premise the overriding and ever-present impact of on-demand digital culture in our lives. This inaugural issue does a fine job of setting up this narrative world, but Gene wonders if the nonstop action and complex visuals may be too much at times. Lastly, the guys take a brief look at an issue of an online zine they have just discovered, Jackie Batey's FutureFantasteek! Issue #16 was released at the beginning of 2015, and while the latest installment can stand on its own, Derek and Gene suggest that the title can best be appreciated when read over the course of its run. For those with a diverse taste in comics, this episode is definitely for you! This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics explore four new titles, each quite different one from the other. They begin with the new graphic novel from New Zealand creator Ant Sang, The Dharma Punks (Conundrum Press). On the surface it is a story about coming to terms with death, but there's much more going on in this 415-page book. In fact, this is one of the most ambitious narratives the guys have encountered so far this year, and certainly the most philosophical. Its protagonist, Chopstick, tries to comes to grips with the suicide of a close friend and what that loss means in his own life, while at the same time participating in an anarchist act against a corporate franchise. The events in the book take place roughly over a two-day period, but one of strengths of this narrative is how Sang manipulates time in a Faulkner-like manner, making the past ever-present. This is a rich and complex text, and at times Gene and Derek feel at a loss trying to put the gist of The Dharma Punks into words for an audio podcast. Next, the guys take on a much more constrained narrative, but one that is nonetheless multifaceted in its own ways, Noah Van Sciver's My Hot Date (Kilgore Books). This is an autobiographical comic, and as the title suggests, it's about a date that the fourteen-year-old Noah has with someone he met via America Online. Van Sciver has written short memoir-inspired stories in the past, but this is the longest, and definitely the most humorously self-deprecating, that he's produced to date. This is just one of the many comics that Van Sciver has released over the past year, many of which are published through Kilgore Books...a growing presences in the Two Guys' arsenal of go-to small publishers. After that, Derek and Gene turn their attention to the first issue in Rick Remender and Sean Murphy's new series from Image Comics, Tokyo Ghost. This is a futuristic story that takes as its premise the overriding and ever-present impact of on-demand digital culture in our lives. This inaugural issue does a fine job of setting up this narrative world, but Gene wonders if the nonstop action and complex visuals may be too much at times. Lastly, the guys take a brief look at an issue of an online zine they have just discovered, Jackie Batey's FutureFantasteek! Issue #16 was released at the beginning of 2015, and while the latest installment can stand on its own, Derek and Gene suggest that the title can best be appreciated when read over the course of its run. For those with a diverse taste in comics, this episode is definitely for you!

]]> 6080 no Interviews - Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews57-Hardman-Bechko.mp3 The Two Guys are happy to have as their guests Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko. Their first collected volume of Invisible Republic has just recently been released, and the guys talk with the creators about the origins of this project, its initial incubation period, and their efforts in bringing the series to Image Comics. Invisible Republic is a science fiction narrative, taking place on a distant moon in the Gliese system in the twenty-eighth century, but it's much more of a story of political intrigue set against a backdrop of journalistic investigation. The first trade collects issues #1-5 of the series, and the next narrative arc begins later this month with issue #6. Derek and Andy W. also ask Corinna and Gabriel about their collaborative relationship, their work on Invisible Republic as well as other series (including the Planet of the Apes franchise), and how it may complement -- or perhaps even challenge -- their personal partnership. The guys also use the opportunity to talk with the two about their other creator-owned projects, such as Kinski, Heathentown, and the upcoming The Crooked Man. The topics of beekeeping, pet ownership, and even Donald Trump (unfortunately) make their ways into their conversation, making this a well-rounded talk. There is a lot packed into this interview, and the discussion that unfolds is one of the most thought-provoking you'll hear in any comics podcast. Mon, 14 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Oh, me and my cousin, one Arthur McBride, As we went a-walkin' down by the seaside..." The Two Guys are happy to have as their guests Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko. Their first collected volume of Invisible Republic has just recently been released, and the guys talk with the creators about the origins of this project, its initial incubation period, and their efforts in bringing the series to Image Comics. Invisible Republic is a science fiction narrative, taking place on a distant moon in the Gliese system in the twenty-eighth century, but it's much more of a story of political intrigue set against a backdrop of journalistic investigation. The first trade collects issues #1-5 of the series, and the next narrative arc begins later this month with issue #6. Derek and Andy W. also ask Corinna and Gabriel about their collaborative relationship, their work on Invisible Republic as well as other series (including the Planet of the Apes franchise), and how it may complement -- or perhaps even challenge -- their personal partnership. The guys also use the opportunity to talk with the two about their other creator-owned projects, such as Kinski, Heathentown, and the upcoming The Crooked Man. The topics of beekeeping, pet ownership, and even Donald Trump (unfortunately) make their ways into their conversation, making this a well-rounded talk. There is a lot packed into this interview, and the discussion that unfolds is one of the most thought-provoking you'll hear in any comics podcast. The Two Guys are happy to have as their guests Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko. Their first collected volume of Invisible Republic has just recently been released, and the guys talk with the creators about the origins of this project, its initial incubation period, and their efforts in bringing the series to Image Comics. Invisible Republic is a science fiction narrative, taking place on a distant moon in the Gliese system in the twenty-eighth century, but it's much more of a story of political intrigue set against a backdrop of journalistic investigation. The first trade collects issues #1-5 of the series, and the next narrative arc begins later this month with issue #6. Derek and Andy W. also ask Corinna and Gabriel about their collaborative relationship, their work on Invisible Republic as well as other series (including the Planet of the Apes franchise), and how it may complement -- or perhaps even challenge -- their personal partnership. The guys also use the opportunity to talk with the two about their other creator-owned projects, such as Kinski, Heathentown, and the upcoming The Crooked Man. The topics of beekeeping, pet ownership, and even Donald Trump (unfortunately) make their ways into their conversation, making this a well-rounded talk. There is a lot packed into this interview, and the discussion that unfolds is one of the most thought-provoking you'll hear in any comics podcast.

]]> 3819 no Webcomics - Reviews of Space Mullet, Vinny: El Perro de la Balbuena, and Johnson and Sir http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics10.mp3 Mullets, Cheesecake, and FantasyvilleFor September's webcomics episode, Sean and Derek have some fun titles lined up for you, the devoted Comics Alternative listener. They begin with an incredible futuristic sci-fi series partially informed by one of the worst hairstyles to come out of the 1970s/1980s. Daniel Warren Johnson's Space Mullet is the story of an ex-United-Earth-space-marine-turned-space-trucker and his partner, a sensitive yet wisecracking Zozobian, as they try to come to terms with their pasts as their pasts doggedly continue to creep back into their lives. The guys are absolutely taken by Johnson's highly detailed art -- Sean, in particular, loves Johnson's spaceships, although he's not entirely thrilled by the way the protagonist's mustache is drawn -- as well as the complex way in which his story is unfolding. They point out that the webcomic does not come out as consistently as the creator would like, and he apologizes often for this fact. But that's OK; given the quality of Space Mullet, the guys are more than willing to wait. After that, Derek and Sean turn their attention to Bachan's Vinny: El Perro de la Balbuena. This began as a Spanish-language webcomic several years ago, and now the artist is going back and translating this strips into English...a process that is helping him to learn the language, he says. But to read Vinny, you wouldn't know there's been any translation of any sort, as the story and the comedy are smooth and seamless. This is a strip that reminds the guys of the old Tex Avery cartoons, as well as Ren and Stimpy. Lots of physical comedy, lots of action, lots of exaggerated fun. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a webcomic that just recently ended, Kelci Crawford's Johnson and Sir. This one is quite different from the other titles discussed in this episode. While Space Mullet is an ongoing narrative with multiple and complex story arcs, and while Vinny is a serial with a clearly discernible through-line, Johnson and Sir is more like a daily gag strip. In fact, much of Crawford's humor is reminiscent of the kind of comics you'd find in a daily newspaper. There is, at times, some story across installments, but the real impact of the comic is its one-time comedic punch. And Crawford's sense of humor includes elven police officers, fairies, dinosaurs, and aliens all populating a fantasyland that is not too dissimilar from our own. Be sure to check out all of the webcomics highlighted this month! Fri, 11 Sep 2015 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mullets, Cheesecake, and Fantasyville Mullets, Cheesecake, and FantasyvilleFor September's webcomics episode, Sean and Derek have some fun titles lined up for you, the devoted Comics Alternative listener. They begin with an incredible futuristic sci-fi series partially informed by one of the worst hairstyles to come out of the 1970s/1980s. Daniel Warren Johnson's Space Mullet is the story of an ex-United-Earth-space-marine-turned-space-trucker and his partner, a sensitive yet wisecracking Zozobian, as they try to come to terms with their pasts as their pasts doggedly continue to creep back into their lives. The guys are absolutely taken by Johnson's highly detailed art -- Sean, in particular, loves Johnson's spaceships, although he's not entirely thrilled by the way the protagonist's mustache is drawn -- as well as the complex way in which his story is unfolding. They point out that the webcomic does not come out as consistently as the creator would like, and he apologizes often for this fact. But that's OK; given the quality of Space Mullet, the guys are more than willing to wait. After that, Derek and Sean turn their attention to Bachan's Vinny: El Perro de la Balbuena. This began as a Spanish-language webcomic several years ago, and now the artist is going back and translating this strips into English...a process that is helping him to learn the language, he says. But to read Vinny, you wouldn't know there's been any translation of any sort, as the story and the comedy are smooth and seamless. This is a strip that reminds the guys of the old Tex Avery cartoons, as well as Ren and Stimpy. Lots of physical comedy, lots of action, lots of exaggerated fun. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a webcomic that just recently ended, Kelci Crawford's Johnson and Sir. This one is quite different from the other titles discussed in this episode. While Space Mullet is an ongoing narrative with multiple and complex story arcs, and while Vinny is a serial with a clearly discernible through-line, Johnson and Sir is more like a daily gag strip. In fact, much of Crawford's humor is reminiscent of the kind of comics you'd find in a daily newspaper. There is, at times, some story across installments, but the real impact of the comic is its one-time comedic punch. And Crawford's sense of humor includes elven police officers, fairies, dinosaurs, and aliens all populating a fantasyland that is not too dissimilar from our own. Be sure to check out all of the webcomics highlighted this month! Mullets, Cheesecake, and FantasyvilleFor September's webcomics episode, Sean and Derek have some fun titles lined up for you, the devoted Comics Alternative listener. They begin with an incredible futuristic sci-fi series partially informed by one of the worst hairstyles to come out of the 1970s/1980s. Daniel Warren Johnson's Space Mullet is the story of an ex-United-Earth-space-marine-turned-space-trucker and his partner, a sensitive yet wisecracking Zozobian, as they try to come to terms with their pasts as their pasts doggedly continue to creep back into their lives. The guys are absolutely taken by Johnson's highly detailed art -- Sean, in particular, loves Johnson's spaceships, although he's not entirely thrilled by the way the protagonist's mustache is drawn -- as well as the complex way in which his story is unfolding. They point out that the webcomic does not come out as consistently as the creator would like, and he apologizes often for this fact. But that's OK; given the quality of Space Mullet, the guys are more than willing to wait. After that, Derek and Sean turn their attention to Bachan's Vinny: El Perro de la Balbuena. This began as a Spanish-language webcomic several years ago, and now the artist is going back and translating this strips into English...a process that is helping him to learn the language, he says. But to read Vinny, you wouldn't know there's been any translation of any sort, as the story and the comedy are smooth and seamless. This is a strip that reminds the guys of the old Tex Avery cartoons, as well as Ren and Stimpy. Lots of physical comedy, lots of action, lots of exaggerated fun. Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with a webcomic that just recently ended, Kelci Crawford's Johnson and Sir. This one is quite different from the other titles discussed in this episode. While Space Mullet is an ongoing narrative with multiple and complex story arcs, and while Vinny is a serial with a clearly discernible through-line, Johnson and Sir is more like a daily gag strip. In fact, much of Crawford's humor is reminiscent of the kind of comics you'd find in a daily newspaper. There is, at times, some story across installments, but the real impact of the comic is its one-time comedic punch. And Crawford's sense of humor includes elven police officers, fairies, dinosaurs, and aliens all populating a fantasyland that is not too dissimilar from our own. Be sure to check out all of the webcomics highlighted this month!

]]> 5228 no Episode 152 - Reviews of Nanjing: The Burning City, Plutona #1, and Lose #7 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-152.mp3 On this week's review show, Derek and Andy W. look at three new titles, beginning with the new graphic novel from Ethan Young, Nanjing: The Burning City (Dark Horse). This is a riveting historically based narrative centered on Japan's actions against the Chinese Nationalist capital during the Second Sino-Japanese War. It involves a captain in the Republic of China's army trapped within Nanjing, now overrun by the Japanese, and his attempts to get himself and one of his soldiers out to safety. Young never flinches from the horrors of the war, yet at the same time he never falls prey to the temptation of demonizing the aggressor. His is a very human story, and both the invading Japanese troops and Chinese victims are shown in all of their complexities. Next, the guys discuss the first issue of Jeff Lemire and Emi Lenox's new series, Plutona (Image). This is a different kind of spin to the superhero genre, and the story begins by introducing us to a group of five suburban kids, each with his or her own personality and complications. What binds them all together is the discovery of the titular character, one of their city's crime-fighting heroes who now lies inert in the woods. What makes this first so compelling is not only Lenox's unique art, but the colors provided by Jordie Bellaire. And this more conventional narrative stands in stark contrast to the third title the guys discuss, Michael DeForge's Lose #7 (Koyama Press). This is the latest in DeForge's annual one-man anthology series, and in this issue we get three stories. The first and third are short, untitled abstract narratives, but the middle story is longer and more traditional in its construction. "Movie Star" is an unusual tale about a daughter whose father unexpectedly finds his long-lost sibling and how this discovery changes his life in unlikely ways. As Andy points out, all of the stories in this latest issue of Lose are thematically linked by a search for identity. In fact, you could look at all of the comics discussed on this episode as dealing with this very theme. Wed, 09 Sep 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Forgotten History, Discovered Family On this week's review show, Derek and Andy W. look at three new titles, beginning with the new graphic novel from Ethan Young, Nanjing: The Burning City (Dark Horse). This is a riveting historically based narrative centered on Japan's actions against the Chinese Nationalist capital during the Second Sino-Japanese War. It involves a captain in the Republic of China's army trapped within Nanjing, now overrun by the Japanese, and his attempts to get himself and one of his soldiers out to safety. Young never flinches from the horrors of the war, yet at the same time he never falls prey to the temptation of demonizing the aggressor. His is a very human story, and both the invading Japanese troops and Chinese victims are shown in all of their complexities. Next, the guys discuss the first issue of Jeff Lemire and Emi Lenox's new series, Plutona (Image). This is a different kind of spin to the superhero genre, and the story begins by introducing us to a group of five suburban kids, each with his or her own personality and complications. What binds them all together is the discovery of the titular character, one of their city's crime-fighting heroes who now lies inert in the woods. What makes this first so compelling is not only Lenox's unique art, but the colors provided by Jordie Bellaire. And this more conventional narrative stands in stark contrast to the third title the guys discuss, Michael DeForge's Lose #7 (Koyama Press). This is the latest in DeForge's annual one-man anthology series, and in this issue we get three stories. The first and third are short, untitled abstract narratives, but the middle story is longer and more traditional in its construction. "Movie Star" is an unusual tale about a daughter whose father unexpectedly finds his long-lost sibling and how this discovery changes his life in unlikely ways. As Andy points out, all of the stories in this latest issue of Lose are thematically linked by a search for identity. In fact, you could look at all of the comics discussed on this episode as dealing with this very theme. On this week's review show, Derek and Andy W. look at three new titles, beginning with the new graphic novel from Ethan Young, Nanjing: The Burning City (Dark Horse). This is a riveting historically based narrative centered on Japan's actions against the Chinese Nationalist capital during the Second Sino-Japanese War. It involves a captain in the Republic of China's army trapped within Nanjing, now overrun by the Japanese, and his attempts to get himself and one of his soldiers out to safety. Young never flinches from the horrors of the war, yet at the same time he never falls prey to the temptation of demonizing the aggressor. His is a very human story, and both the invading Japanese troops and Chinese victims are shown in all of their complexities. Next, the guys discuss the first issue of Jeff Lemire and Emi Lenox's new series, Plutona (Image). This is a different kind of spin to the superhero genre, and the story begins by introducing us to a group of five suburban kids, each with his or her own personality and complications. What binds them all together is the discovery of the titular character, one of their city's crime-fighting heroes who now lies inert in the woods. What makes this first so compelling is not only Lenox's unique art, but the colors provided by Jordie Bellaire. And this more conventional narrative stands in stark contrast to the third title the guys discuss, Michael DeForge's Lose #7 (Koyama Press). This is the latest in DeForge's annual one-man anthology series, and in this issue we get three stories. The first and third are short, untitled abstract narratives, but the middle story is longer and more traditional in its construction. "Movie Star" is an unusual tale about a daughter whose father unexpectedly finds his long-lost sibling and how this discovery changes his life in unlikely ways. As Andy points out, all of the stories in this latest issue of Lose are thematically linked by a search for identity. In fact, you could look at all of the comics discussed on this episode as dealing with this very theme.

]]> 4963 no Interviews - Glenn Head http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews56-Head.mp3 On this episode of the interview show, Andy and Derek have as their guest Glenn Head, whose new book Chicago: A Comix Memoir was just released from Fantagraphics. They talk with Glenn extensively about the the work and how it is a marked departure from his previous comics. Chicago is Glenn's coming-of-age account of leaving Madison, NJ, in 1977 to attend the Cleveland Institute of Art, and then deciding to find himself by suddenly running off to Chicago with no friends, no money, and no plans. He quickly finds himself destitute, panhandling on the streets, and young prey for any number of nefarious forces. Between homeless shelters and McDonald's meals, Glenn tries to make his way into the comics business, along the way meeting the likes Skip Williamson, Robert Crumb, and even Muhammed Ali. His sojourn in the Windy City leads him down some dark paths, but not nearly as dark as the aftermath back home in Madison where he begins to process the events and come to terms with what those Chicago experiences meant to him. This isn't the first time that Glenn has created autobiographically tinged comics -- such pieces had appeared in some of his older comics, such as Avenue D and Guttersnipe -- but this is the first time he has done so in longer form. Indeed, this is Glenn's first sustained book-length narrative, having defined much of his career through shorter comics collected in various anthologies, such as Weirdo and Zero Zero, or by editing collections of his own, such Snake Eyes and, most recently, Hotwire Comics. The guys talk with Glenn about those projects, as well, and discuss with him the changes he's witnessed in the field between the final days of the underground comix to the legitimization of the "graphic novel" form. So this isn't just an interview with an established creator about his latest book. It's also a conversation about the current state of comics with a witness to that form's decades-long trajectory. Tue, 08 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal That Toddling Town On this episode of the interview show, Andy and Derek have as their guest Glenn Head, whose new book Chicago: A Comix Memoir was just released from Fantagraphics. They talk with Glenn extensively about the the work and how it is a marked departure from his previous comics. Chicago is Glenn's coming-of-age account of leaving Madison, NJ, in 1977 to attend the Cleveland Institute of Art, and then deciding to find himself by suddenly running off to Chicago with no friends, no money, and no plans. He quickly finds himself destitute, panhandling on the streets, and young prey for any number of nefarious forces. Between homeless shelters and McDonald's meals, Glenn tries to make his way into the comics business, along the way meeting the likes Skip Williamson, Robert Crumb, and even Muhammed Ali. His sojourn in the Windy City leads him down some dark paths, but not nearly as dark as the aftermath back home in Madison where he begins to process the events and come to terms with what those Chicago experiences meant to him. This isn't the first time that Glenn has created autobiographically tinged comics -- such pieces had appeared in some of his older comics, such as Avenue D and Guttersnipe -- but this is the first time he has done so in longer form. Indeed, this is Glenn's first sustained book-length narrative, having defined much of his career through shorter comics collected in various anthologies, such as Weirdo and Zero Zero, or by editing collections of his own, such Snake Eyes and, most recently, Hotwire Comics. The guys talk with Glenn about those projects, as well, and discuss with him the changes he's witnessed in the field between the final days of the underground comix to the legitimization of the "graphic novel" form. So this isn't just an interview with an established creator about his latest book. It's also a conversation about the current state of comics with a witness to that form's decades-long trajectory. On this episode of the interview show, Andy and Derek have as their guest Glenn Head, whose new book Chicago: A Comix Memoir was just released from Fantagraphics. They talk with Glenn extensively about the the work and how it is a marked departure from his previous comics. Chicago is Glenn's coming-of-age account of leaving Madison, NJ, in 1977 to attend the Cleveland Institute of Art, and then deciding to find himself by suddenly running off to Chicago with no friends, no money, and no plans. He quickly finds himself destitute, panhandling on the streets, and young prey for any number of nefarious forces. Between homeless shelters and McDonald's meals, Glenn tries to make his way into the comics business, along the way meeting the likes Skip Williamson, Robert Crumb, and even Muhammed Ali. His sojourn in the Windy City leads him down some dark paths, but not nearly as dark as the aftermath back home in Madison where he begins to process the events and come to terms with what those Chicago experiences meant to him. This isn't the first time that Glenn has created autobiographically tinged comics -- such pieces had appeared in some of his older comics, such as Avenue D and Guttersnipe -- but this is the first time he has done so in longer form. Indeed, this is Glenn's first sustained book-length narrative, having defined much of his career through shorter comics collected in various anthologies, such as Weirdo and Zero Zero, or by editing collections of his own, such Snake Eyes and, most recently, Hotwire Comics. The guys talk with Glenn about those projects, as well, and discuss with him the changes he's witnessed in the field between the final days of the underground comix to the legitimization of the "graphic novel" form. So this isn't just an interview with an established creator about his latest book. It's also a conversation about the current state of comics with a witness to that form's decades-long trajectory.

]]> 5359 yes Interviews - Marisa Acocella Marchetto http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews55-Marchetto.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are proud to have as their guest Marisa Acocella Marchetto. Her new graphic novel, Ann Tenna, was just released by Knopf, and it’s a fantastical, sci-fi-infused story of psychological balance and self-discovery in our overly “media-cated” culture. The titular protagonist, a glamorous, super-connected entrepreneur of glitz and gossip, becomes disconnected from her higher self…literally. Her cosmic doppleganger, Superann, steps into Ann’s life via a near-fatal accident, and results are a hard-cold lesson in emotional and interpersonal priorities. Along the way, Ann visits psychedelic celestial planes, experiences out-of-this-world fashions, rubs elbows with the spirits of Coco Chanel and Heinrich Hertz, and taps into universal networks of communication that put our social media to shame. Andy and Derek talk with Marisa about the genesis of of this narrative and how it fits in with her earlier books, Just Who the Hell Is She, Anyway? and Cancer Vixen. They learn that Ann Tenna actually has long roots dating back to some of Marisa’s earliest comics efforts, but that the story evolved over time to take on deeper meaning informed by the author’s own traumatic experiences. In fact, they spend a good bit of time talking with Marisa about Cancer Vixen, how that book has helped define her career, and about her efforts as the founder and chair of the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Comprehensive Cancer Center. Along the way, the guys make it a point to address Marisa’s sense of humor, her work for The New Yorker, her iconographic fascination (obsession?) with eyes, her razor-sharp word play, and the cool font that she created specifically for the new book. So get those antennas up and consider this podcast episode a most necessary transmission, beaming to you with love from the other-worldly offices of Comics Alternative Central. Fri, 04 Sep 2015 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Cosmically Conscious The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are proud to have as their guest Marisa Acocella Marchetto. Her new graphic novel, Ann Tenna, was just released by Knopf, and it’s a fantastical, sci-fi-infused story of psychological balance and self-discovery in our overly “media-cated” culture. The titular protagonist, a glamorous, super-connected entrepreneur of glitz and gossip, becomes disconnected from her higher self…literally. Her cosmic doppleganger, Superann, steps into Ann’s life via a near-fatal accident, and results are a hard-cold lesson in emotional and interpersonal priorities. Along the way, Ann visits psychedelic celestial planes, experiences out-of-this-world fashions, rubs elbows with the spirits of Coco Chanel and Heinrich Hertz, and taps into universal networks of communication that put our social media to shame. Andy and Derek talk with Marisa about the genesis of of this narrative and how it fits in with her earlier books, Just Who the Hell Is She, Anyway? and Cancer Vixen. They learn that Ann Tenna actually has long roots dating back to some of Marisa’s earliest comics efforts, but that the story evolved over time to take on deeper meaning informed by the author’s own traumatic experiences. In fact, they spend a good bit of time talking with Marisa about Cancer Vixen, how that book has helped define her career, and about her efforts as the founder and chair of the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Comprehensive Cancer Center. Along the way, the guys make it a point to address Marisa’s sense of humor, her work for The New Yorker, her iconographic fascination (obsession?) with eyes, her razor-sharp word play, and the cool font that she created specifically for the new book. So get those antennas up and consider this podcast episode a most necessary transmission, beaming to you with love from the other-worldly offices of Comics Alternative Central. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are proud to have as their guest Marisa Acocella Marchetto. Her new graphic novel, Ann Tenna, was just released by Knopf, and it’s a fantastical, sci-fi-infused story of psychological balance and self-discovery in our overly “media-cated” culture. The titular protagonist, a glamorous, super-connected entrepreneur of glitz and gossip, becomes disconnected from her higher self…literally. Her cosmic doppleganger, Superann, steps into Ann’s life via a near-fatal accident, and results are a hard-cold lesson in emotional and interpersonal priorities. Along the way, Ann visits psychedelic celestial planes, experiences out-of-this-world fashions, rubs elbows with the spirits of Coco Chanel and Heinrich Hertz, and taps into universal networks of communication that put our social media to shame. Andy and Derek talk with Marisa about the genesis of of this narrative and how it fits in with her earlier books, Just Who the Hell Is She, Anyway? and Cancer Vixen. They learn that Ann Tenna actually has long roots dating back to some of Marisa’s earliest comics efforts, but that the story evolved over time to take on deeper meaning informed by the author’s own traumatic experiences. In fact, they spend a good bit of time talking with Marisa about Cancer Vixen, how that book has helped define her career, and about her efforts as the founder and chair of the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Comprehensive Cancer Center. Along the way, the guys make it a point to address Marisa’s sense of humor, her work for The New Yorker, her iconographic fascination (obsession?) with eyes, her razor-sharp word play, and the cool font that she created specifically for the new book. So get those antennas up and consider this podcast episode a most necessary transmission, beaming to you with love from the other-worldly offices of Comics Alternative Central.

]]> 4069 no Episode 151 - The September Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-151.mp3 Another month is upon us, so that means it must be time for Andy and Derek to open up the latest Previews catalog and begin making out their wish lists. (Actually, Derek is the only one opening up the catalog. Andy finds himself without one for this month, having to rely only on text-only order form.) Most of solicits in the September catalog will be released in either November or December, just in time for the holidays, and the guys wondered if this would be another chock-full issue leading to another longish episode of the podcast. They got their answer fairly quickly. They cover a lot in this episode. However, there’s much more that the Two Guys wanted to highlight, but there’s only so much time to record the episode (plus, toward the end, the guys were getting a little tired and hungry). Also in this episode, the guys fantasize about themselves being tastemakers, discuss the challenges in teaching Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home, and highlight Garth Ennis and John McCrea’s memorable run on The Demon. More notably, Andy ridicules Derek on his critique of the Lumberjanes phenomenon, and Derek punches back. Do we have the beginnings of another Beyond Watchmen fracas between the Two Guys? Wed, 02 Sep 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Tastemakers Another month is upon us, so that means it must be time for Andy and Derek to open up the latest Previews catalog and begin making out their wish lists. (Actually, Derek is the only one opening up the catalog. Andy finds himself without one for this month, having to rely only on text-only order form.) Most of solicits in the September catalog will be released in either November or December, just in time for the holidays, and the guys wondered if this would be another chock-full issue leading to another longish episode of the podcast. They got their answer fairly quickly. They cover a lot in this episode. However, there’s much more that the Two Guys wanted to highlight, but there’s only so much time to record the episode (plus, toward the end, the guys were getting a little tired and hungry). Also in this episode, the guys fantasize about themselves being tastemakers, discuss the challenges in teaching Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home, and highlight Garth Ennis and John McCrea’s memorable run on The Demon. More notably, Andy ridicules Derek on his critique of the Lumberjanes phenomenon, and Derek punches back. Do we have the beginnings of another Beyond Watchmen fracas between the Two Guys? Another month is upon us, so that means it must be time for Andy and Derek to open up the latest Previews catalog and begin making out their wish lists. (Actually, Derek is the only one opening up the catalog. Andy finds himself without one for this month, having to rely only on text-only order form.) Most of solicits in the September catalog will be released in either November or December, just in time for the holidays, and the guys wondered if this would be another chock-full issue leading to another longish episode of the podcast. They got their answer fairly quickly. They cover a lot in this episode. However, there’s much more that the Two Guys wanted to highlight, but there’s only so much time to record the episode (plus, toward the end, the guys were getting a little tired and hungry). Also in this episode, the guys fantasize about themselves being tastemakers, discuss the challenges in teaching Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home, and highlight Garth Ennis and John McCrea’s memorable run on The Demon. More notably, Andy ridicules Derek on his critique of the Lumberjanes phenomenon, and Derek punches back. Do we have the beginnings of another Beyond Watchmen fracas between the Two Guys?

]]> 8017 no Manga - Reviews of Batman: The Jiro Kuwata Batmanga and Oh My Goddess! Omnibus http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Manga5.mp3 On this month's manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two distinctly different titles. They begin with Batman: The Jiro Kuwata Batmanga (DC Comics). The second in this planned three-volume series, collecting all of Kuwata's Batman work, just came out last month, and the Two Guys look at both volumes one and two. These Batmanga stories were originally serialized in Japan between 1966 and 1967, at the height of the Adam West Batman craze, and both Derek and Shea comment on how much Kuwata's stories were informed by that TV series, as well as by the "New Look" of earlier in the decade. At the same time, this manga never comes across as intentionally campy or self-conscious of itself as a pop-cultural product. In fact, one of the guys' first topics of conversation is how much Kuwata's Batman takes from its American version and how much is unique and original to the manga. Surprisingly, there are relatively few American imports into the Batmanga stories -- Jim Gordon is prominent throughout, and both Alfred Pennyworth and Vicki Vale make brief appearances -- and the villains in Kuwata's stories are either street-level thugs or unique to the manga. Indeed, Derek comments on the weirdness of many of Batman's nemeses in these stories -- at least, more weirdly off-beat than those in the American version --  including Lord Death Man, the Human Ball, Professor Gorilla, the Hangman, and, one of his favorites, Go-Go the Magician. (Clayface is the focus of a chapter in the second volume, but it's a different Clayface from the American version.) These are definitely stories of their time, and the guys point out that Kuwata's Batmanga is perhaps best read as a rich cultural artifact. To fully appreciate Batman, you should understand the property's many historical contexts and manifestations. Next, the guys look at the the first volume in Dark Horse Comics' new Oh My Goddess! Omnibus series. Neither Shea nor Derek knew exactly what to expect with Kosuke Fujishima legendary title, except for the fact that it was a widely popular manga series. Derek expected something along the line of josei, and Shea thought that the title might be defined by several of the stereotypes many readers may have regarding manga. But both were pleasantly surprised, especially Derek, who appreciated the episodic, TV-sitcom-like nature of this seinen manga. In fact, as the guys point out, you can gain about everything you need to now about the series' premise in the book's first chapter, "The Number You Have Dailed Is Incorrect." From there, the remaining 22 chapters of this first omnibus follow suit, occasionally introducing new characters and situations that build upon the foundation laid down in the first. Shea is less impressed by Fujishima's meandering storylines, but Derek enjoys the casual, even charming, manner in which we get to know Keiichi, Belldandy, and the rest of the Oh My Goddess! cast. The reader's comfort and enjoyment levels develop as the series unfolds, and, as Shea points out, taking in a chapter of Oh My Goddess! is like eating a favorite food or returning to a reliable friend. However, for some (such as Shea) this is a title that might be best experienced on a regular serialized basis, and not consumed all at once in omnibus form. Regardless, both of the guys are glad that they've discovered Fujishima's recently completed series -- the final chapter was published in April 2014 -- and they'll probably return for the next omnibus volume that comes out late this year. Mon, 31 Aug 2015 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Of Yggdrasil and Batcaves On this month's manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two distinctly different titles. They begin with Batman: The Jiro Kuwata Batmanga (DC Comics). The second in this planned three-volume series, collecting all of Kuwata's Batman work, just came out last month, and the Two Guys look at both volumes one and two. These Batmanga stories were originally serialized in Japan between 1966 and 1967, at the height of the Adam West Batman craze, and both Derek and Shea comment on how much Kuwata's stories were informed by that TV series, as well as by the "New Look" of earlier in the decade. At the same time, this manga never comes across as intentionally campy or self-conscious of itself as a pop-cultural product. In fact, one of the guys' first topics of conversation is how much Kuwata's Batman takes from its American version and how much is unique and original to the manga. Surprisingly, there are relatively few American imports into the Batmanga stories -- Jim Gordon is prominent throughout, and both Alfred Pennyworth and Vicki Vale make brief appearances -- and the villains in Kuwata's stories are either street-level thugs or unique to the manga. Indeed, Derek comments on the weirdness of many of Batman's nemeses in these stories -- at least, more weirdly off-beat than those in the American version --  including Lord Death Man, the Human Ball, Professor Gorilla, the Hangman, and, one of his favorites, Go-Go the Magician. (Clayface is the focus of a chapter in the second volume, but it's a different Clayface from the American version.) These are definitely stories of their time, and the guys point out that Kuwata's Batmanga is perhaps best read as a rich cultural artifact. To fully appreciate Batman, you should understand the property's many historical contexts and manifestations. Next, the guys look at the the first volume in Dark Horse Comics' new Oh My Goddess! Omnibus series. Neither Shea nor Derek knew exactly what to expect with Kosuke Fujishima legendary title, except for the fact that it was a widely popular manga series. Derek expected something along the line of josei, and Shea thought that the title might be defined by several of the stereotypes many readers may have regarding manga. But both were pleasantly surprised, especially Derek, who appreciated the episodic, TV-sitcom-like nature of this seinen manga. In fact, as the guys point out, you can gain about everything you need to now about the series' premise in the book's first chapter, "The Number You Have Dailed Is Incorrect." From there, the remaining 22 chapters of this first omnibus follow suit, occasionally introducing new characters and situations that build upon the foundation laid down in the first. Shea is less impressed by Fujishima's meandering storylines, but Derek enjoys the casual, even charming, manner in which we get to know Keiichi, Belldandy, and the rest of the Oh My Goddess! cast. The reader's comfort and enjoyment levels develop as the series unfolds, and, as Shea points out, taking in a chapter of Oh My Goddess! is like eating a favorite food or returning to a reliable friend. However, for some (such as Shea) this is a title that might be best experienced on a regular serialized basis, and not consumed all at once in omnibus form. Regardless, both of the guys are glad that they've discovered Fujishima's recently completed series -- the final chapter was published in April 2014 -- and they'll probably return for the next omnibus volume that comes out late this year. On this month's manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two distinctly different titles. They begin with Batman: The Jiro Kuwata Batmanga (DC Comics). The second in this planned three-volume series, collecting all of Kuwata's Batman work, just came out last month, and the Two Guys look at both volumes one and two. These Batmanga stories were originally serialized in Japan between 1966 and 1967, at the height of the Adam West Batman craze, and both Derek and Shea comment on how much Kuwata's stories were informed by that TV series, as well as by the "New Look" of earlier in the decade. At the same time, this manga never comes across as intentionally campy or self-conscious of itself as a pop-cultural product. In fact, one of the guys' first topics of conversation is how much Kuwata's Batman takes from its American version and how much is unique and original to the manga. Surprisingly, there are relatively few American imports into the Batmanga stories -- Jim Gordon is prominent throughout, and both Alfred Pennyworth and Vicki Vale make brief appearances -- and the villains in Kuwata's stories are either street-level thugs or unique to the manga. Indeed, Derek comments on the weirdness of many of Batman's nemeses in these stories -- at least, more weirdly off-beat than those in the American version --  including Lord Death Man, the Human Ball, Professor Gorilla, the Hangman, and, one of his favorites, Go-Go the Magician. (Clayface is the focus of a chapter in the second volume, but it's a different Clayface from the American version.) These are definitely stories of their time, and the guys point out that Kuwata's Batmanga is perhaps best read as a rich cultural artifact. To fully appreciate Batman, you should understand the property's many historical contexts and manifestations. Next, the guys look at the the first volume in Dark Horse Comics' new Oh My Goddess! Omnibus series. Neither Shea nor Derek knew exactly what to expect with Kosuke Fujishima legendary title, except for the fact that it was a widely popular manga series. Derek expected something along the line of josei, and Shea thought that the title might be defined by several of the stereotypes many readers may have regarding manga. But both were pleasantly surprised, especially Derek, who appreciated the episodic, TV-sitcom-like nature of this seinen manga. In fact, as the guys point out, you can gain about everything you need to now about the series' premise in the book's first chapter, "The Number You Have Dailed Is Incorrect." From there, the remaining 22 chapters of this first omnibus follow suit, occasionally introducing new characters and situations that build upon the foundation laid down in the first. Shea is less impressed by Fujishima's meandering storylines, but Derek enjoys the casual, even charming, manner in which we get to know Keiichi, Belldandy, and the rest of the Oh My Goddess! cast. The reader's comfort and enjoyment levels develop as the series unfolds, and, as Shea points out, taking in a chapter of Oh My Goddess! is like eating a favorite food or returning to a reliable friend. However, for some (such as Shea) this is a title that might be best experienced on a regular serialized basis, and not consumed all at once in omnibus form. Regardless, both of the guys are glad that they've discovered Fujishima's recently completed series -- the final chapter was published in April 2014 -- and they'll probably return for the next omnibus volume that comes out late this year.

]]> 5644 no Episode 150 - Reviews of The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane, Wolf, and Americatown http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-150.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three recent titles, each one an example of genre mash-up. They begin with a new book that isn't really so new. Philippe Druillet's The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane (Titan Comics) is actually a reprint of a series of stories originally published in the Franco-Belgian comics magazine Pilote between 1970 and 1971, and then later made available to English speakers through both Dark Horse Comics and NBM. Each short narrative centers on the titular character, a space wanderer/adventurer who encounters a variety of pirates, robotic threats, despotic rulers, and space gods along his multi-dimensional journeys. Druillet's style is colorful, lush, and baroque, demonstrating much of the cultural psychedelia of the time, and the artwork is nicely showcased through the bandes dessinées format in which Titan Comics chose to publish this edition. Derek and Gene discuss in some detail Druillet's non-traditional panel layout and how he utilizes the mise-en-page to both generate meaning in unique ways and demonstrate a playfulness engaging reader expectations. This is the first in a series of Lone Sl0ane narratives that Titan will reproduce, the next two featuring his adventures originally published in 1972's Delirius. After these fantasy-inspired space quests, the guys turn their attention to something more earth-bound, although not necessarily of this world. Ales Kot and Matt Taylor's Wolf (Image Comics) is a curious blend of supernatural and noir conventions featuring werewolves, vampires, ghosts, demons, Cthulu, and possibly the Antichrist. The second issue was just released, so Gene and Derek are able to discuss this new series with quite a number of pages under their belts. Ironically, though, the guys aren't entirely sure what's going on in this title, despite the almost-60-pages first issue and the regularly sized second. Kot and Taylor have laid out their narrative groundwork, for the most part, but there just isn't much that happens in these first two issues. Despite the intriguing premise and the promise of socio-cultural pertinence, this may be a title that reads better in trade...or so Gene and Derek wonder. An inaugural issue with much more action can be found in Bradford Winters, Larry Cohen, and Daniel Irizarri's Americatown #1 (BOOM! Studios/Archaia). What drew the guys to this new series is its premise, a futuristic or alternative world where U.S. citizens become illegal immigrant workers in other countries, sending back their earnings to provide for their families while they evade the surveillance and deportation. Given recent political news -- thanks largely to that paragon of civil discourse, Donald Trump -- Americatown is a timely speculation on national boundaries and economic survival. Gene especially appreciates Irizarri's art, and it is for this reason, as well, that both he and Derek are likely to return regularly to this eight-issue limited series and not wait for it to be collected. Wed, 26 Aug 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Genre Goodness for All! This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three recent titles, each one an example of genre mash-up. They begin with a new book that isn't really so new. Philippe Druillet's The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane (Titan Comics) is actually a reprint of a series of stories originally published in the Franco-Belgian comics magazine Pilote between 1970 and 1971, and then later made available to English speakers through both Dark Horse Comics and NBM. Each short narrative centers on the titular character, a space wanderer/adventurer who encounters a variety of pirates, robotic threats, despotic rulers, and space gods along his multi-dimensional journeys. Druillet's style is colorful, lush, and baroque, demonstrating much of the cultural psychedelia of the time, and the artwork is nicely showcased through the bandes dessinées format in which Titan Comics chose to publish this edition. Derek and Gene discuss in some detail Druillet's non-traditional panel layout and how he utilizes the mise-en-page to both generate meaning in unique ways and demonstrate a playfulness engaging reader expectations. This is the first in a series of Lone Sl0ane narratives that Titan will reproduce, the next two featuring his adventures originally published in 1972's Delirius. After these fantasy-inspired space quests, the guys turn their attention to something more earth-bound, although not necessarily of this world. Ales Kot and Matt Taylor's Wolf (Image Comics) is a curious blend of supernatural and noir conventions featuring werewolves, vampires, ghosts, demons, Cthulu, and possibly the Antichrist. The second issue was just released, so Gene and Derek are able to discuss this new series with quite a number of pages under their belts. Ironically, though, the guys aren't entirely sure what's going on in this title, despite the almost-60-pages first issue and the regularly sized second. Kot and Taylor have laid out their narrative groundwork, for the most part, but there just isn't much that happens in these first two issues. Despite the intriguing premise and the promise of socio-cultural pertinence, this may be a title that reads better in trade...or so Gene and Derek wonder. An inaugural issue with much more action can be found in Bradford Winters, Larry Cohen, and Daniel Irizarri's Americatown #1 (BOOM! Studios/Archaia). What drew the guys to this new series is its premise, a futuristic or alternative world where U.S. citizens become illegal immigrant workers in other countries, sending back their earnings to provide for their families while they evade the surveillance and deportation. Given recent political news -- thanks largely to that paragon of civil discourse, Donald Trump -- Americatown is a timely speculation on national boundaries and economic survival. Gene especially appreciates Irizarri's art, and it is for this reason, as well, that both he and Derek are likely to return regularly to this eight-issue limited series and not wait for it to be collected. This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics look at three recent titles, each one an example of genre mash-up. They begin with a new book that isn't really so new. Philippe Druillet's The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane (Titan Comics) is actually a reprint of a series of stories originally published in the Franco-Belgian comics magazine Pilote between 1970 and 1971, and then later made available to English speakers through both Dark Horse Comics and NBM. Each short narrative centers on the titular character, a space wanderer/adventurer who encounters a variety of pirates, robotic threats, despotic rulers, and space gods along his multi-dimensional journeys. Druillet's style is colorful, lush, and baroque, demonstrating much of the cultural psychedelia of the time, and the artwork is nicely showcased through the bandes dessinées format in which Titan Comics chose to publish this edition. Derek and Gene discuss in some detail Druillet's non-traditional panel layout and how he utilizes the mise-en-page to both generate meaning in unique ways and demonstrate a playfulness engaging reader expectations. This is the first in a series of Lone Sl0ane narratives that Titan will reproduce, the next two featuring his adventures originally published in 1972's Delirius. After these fantasy-inspired space quests, the guys turn their attention to something more earth-bound, although not necessarily of this world. Ales Kot and Matt Taylor's Wolf (Image Comics) is a curious blend of supernatural and noir conventions featuring werewolves, vampires, ghosts, demons, Cthulu, and possibly the Antichrist. The second issue was just released, so Gene and Derek are able to discuss this new series with quite a number of pages under their belts. Ironically, though, the guys aren't entirely sure what's going on in this title, despite the almost-60-pages first issue and the regularly sized second. Kot and Taylor have laid out their narrative groundwork, for the most part, but there just isn't much that happens in these first two issues. Despite the intriguing premise and the promise of socio-cultural pertinence, this may be a title that reads better in trade...or so Gene and Derek wonder. An inaugural issue with much more action can be found in Bradford Winters, Larry Cohen, and Daniel Irizarri's Americatown #1 (BOOM! Studios/Archaia). What drew the guys to this new series is its premise, a futuristic or alternative world where U.S. citizens become illegal immigrant workers in other countries, sending back their earnings to provide for their families while they evade the surveillance and deportation. Given recent political news -- thanks largely to that paragon of civil discourse, Donald Trump -- Americatown is a timely speculation on national boundaries and economic survival. Gene especially appreciates Irizarri's art, and it is for this reason, as well, that both he and Derek are likely to return regularly to this eight-issue limited series and not wait for it to be collected.

]]> 5191 no Interviews - Jeremy Baum http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews54-Baum.mp3 On this episode of the interview show, Derek talks with Jeremy Baum about his latest book, Dörfler (Fantagraphics), a dream-like narrative that combines elements of fantasy, science fiction, psychedelia, pin-up art, and video-game tropes. Structured around multiple (primarily) female characters who appear to inhabit different dimensional realms, Baum’s story is both futuristic as well as surreal. His highly detailed art, composed primarily of grays and blue tones, reveals a dystopic landscape that juxtaposes urban modernity with pastoral themes, resulting in a discursive narrative where both time and space are fluid. Jeremy talks with Derek about the psychological nature of his art and how the philosophies of such writers and artists as Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, and Robert Crumb inform his aesthetics. This is born out most notably in the visual leitmotifs that not only crop up throughout Dörfler, but also largely define Jeremy other works. In fact, the two go on to discuss much of Jeremy’s previous comics, including Heathen (a collection of his earlier graphic art and shorter sequential pieces) and his first long-form narrative, Postland. Derek also asks about Jeremy’s role as an editor and self-publisher, overseeing his own releases as well as the ambitious anthology, Memory, an internationally flavored collection with over 50 contributors. If you’re not already familiar with the unique art of Jeremy Baum, then this interview should serve as an informative introduction. Mon, 24 Aug 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Collective Unconscious On this episode of the interview show, Derek talks with Jeremy Baum about his latest book, Dörfler (Fantagraphics), a dream-like narrative that combines elements of fantasy, science fiction, psychedelia, pin-up art, and video-game tropes. Structured around multiple (primarily) female characters who appear to inhabit different dimensional realms, Baum’s story is both futuristic as well as surreal. His highly detailed art, composed primarily of grays and blue tones, reveals a dystopic landscape that juxtaposes urban modernity with pastoral themes, resulting in a discursive narrative where both time and space are fluid. Jeremy talks with Derek about the psychological nature of his art and how the philosophies of such writers and artists as Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, and Robert Crumb inform his aesthetics. This is born out most notably in the visual leitmotifs that not only crop up throughout Dörfler, but also largely define Jeremy other works. In fact, the two go on to discuss much of Jeremy’s previous comics, including Heathen (a collection of his earlier graphic art and shorter sequential pieces) and his first long-form narrative, Postland. Derek also asks about Jeremy’s role as an editor and self-publisher, overseeing his own releases as well as the ambitious anthology, Memory, an internationally flavored collection with over 50 contributors. If you’re not already familiar with the unique art of Jeremy Baum, then this interview should serve as an informative introduction. On this episode of the interview show, Derek talks with Jeremy Baum about his latest book, Dörfler (Fantagraphics), a dream-like narrative that combines elements of fantasy, science fiction, psychedelia, pin-up art, and video-game tropes. Structured around multiple (primarily) female characters who appear to inhabit different dimensional realms, Baum’s story is both futuristic as well as surreal. His highly detailed art, composed primarily of grays and blue tones, reveals a dystopic landscape that juxtaposes urban modernity with pastoral themes, resulting in a discursive narrative where both time and space are fluid. Jeremy talks with Derek about the psychological nature of his art and how the philosophies of such writers and artists as Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, and Robert Crumb inform his aesthetics. This is born out most notably in the visual leitmotifs that not only crop up throughout Dörfler, but also largely define Jeremy other works. In fact, the two go on to discuss much of Jeremy’s previous comics, including Heathen (a collection of his earlier graphic art and shorter sequential pieces) and his first long-form narrative, Postland. Derek also asks about Jeremy’s role as an editor and self-publisher, overseeing his own releases as well as the ambitious anthology, Memory, an internationally flavored collection with over 50 contributors. If you’re not already familiar with the unique art of Jeremy Baum, then this interview should serve as an informative introduction.

]]> 4043 no Special - A Roundtable Discussion on Teaching Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special7.mp3 The Two Guys are back with another special episode of The Comics Alternative, and, just in time for the new school year, this time they hold a roundtable discussion on teaching comics. Joining them in the discussion are Randy Duncan and Matthew J. Smith. They, along with Paul Levitz, are the coauthors of The Power of Comics: History, Form, and Culture (Bloomsbury Academic), the first real textbook devoted to comics that was just recently released in its second edition. In fact, Derek begins the conversation by asking Matt and Randy about their experiences pulling together the project, some of the challenges they faced creating a comics-centered textbook, and what kind of feedback they have received from instructors using it. But the conversation soon transitions into a larger discussion of comics in the classrooms, e.g., strategies for teaching, the hard choices when creating syllabi, negotiating student expectations, reading lists and text availability, assignment choices that reflect the medium, and course focus on specific comics topics. All four of the discussants have taught comics many times over the year, and each brings to the conversation their unique experiences and recommendations. Whether you are an educator with years of teaching graphic novels under your belt, an instructor contemplating teaching comics for the first time, a student who's always wanted to read this kind of material in the classroom, a pedagogical theorist curious about the potential of the medium, or just a reader who's interested in serious comics talk, this is an episode has something for you. Fri, 21 Aug 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal School Days The Two Guys are back with another special episode of The Comics Alternative, and, just in time for the new school year, this time they hold a roundtable discussion on teaching comics. Joining them in the discussion are Randy Duncan and Matthew J. Smith. They, along with Paul Levitz, are the coauthors of The Power of Comics: History, Form, and Culture (Bloomsbury Academic), the first real textbook devoted to comics that was just recently released in its second edition. In fact, Derek begins the conversation by asking Matt and Randy about their experiences pulling together the project, some of the challenges they faced creating a comics-centered textbook, and what kind of feedback they have received from instructors using it. But the conversation soon transitions into a larger discussion of comics in the classrooms, e.g., strategies for teaching, the hard choices when creating syllabi, negotiating student expectations, reading lists and text availability, assignment choices that reflect the medium, and course focus on specific comics topics. All four of the discussants have taught comics many times over the year, and each brings to the conversation their unique experiences and recommendations. Whether you are an educator with years of teaching graphic novels under your belt, an instructor contemplating teaching comics for the first time, a student who's always wanted to read this kind of material in the classroom, a pedagogical theorist curious about the potential of the medium, or just a reader who's interested in serious comics talk, this is an episode has something for you. The Two Guys are back with another special episode of The Comics Alternative, and, just in time for the new school year, this time they hold a roundtable discussion on teaching comics. Joining them in the discussion are Randy Duncan and Matthew J. Smith. They, along with Paul Levitz, are the coauthors of The Power of Comics: History, Form, and Culture (Bloomsbury Academic), the first real textbook devoted to comics that was just recently released in its second edition. In fact, Derek begins the conversation by asking Matt and Randy about their experiences pulling together the project, some of the challenges they faced creating a comics-centered textbook, and what kind of feedback they have received from instructors using it. But the conversation soon transitions into a larger discussion of comics in the classrooms, e.g., strategies for teaching, the hard choices when creating syllabi, negotiating student expectations, reading lists and text availability, assignment choices that reflect the medium, and course focus on specific comics topics. All four of the discussants have taught comics many times over the year, and each brings to the conversation their unique experiences and recommendations. Whether you are an educator with years of teaching graphic novels under your belt, an instructor contemplating teaching comics for the first time, a student who's always wanted to read this kind of material in the classroom, a pedagogical theorist curious about the potential of the medium, or just a reader who's interested in serious comics talk, this is an episode has something for you.

]]> 6142 no Episode 149 - A Retrospective on Fables http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-149.mp3 This is a bittersweet episode of The Comics Alternative, because Andy and Derek are both highlighting and saying goodbye to a title that has been one of their favorites these past thirteen years, Bill Willingham's Fables (Vertigo). The series finale was just recently released -- issue #150, which also doubles at volume 22 of the trade paperbacks -- and the guys go into detail about the wrap-up of the main storyline, the final confrontation between Snow White and Rose Red that has been building over the past several narrative arcs. They also discuss the collection of "Last" stories that round out this volume, short pieces illustrated by a variety of artists that give us a final (?) glimpse at some of Fables most important characters. In fact, this episode of the podcast is very spoiler-heavy, in that Derek and Andy couldn't figure out how to do justice to the series without giving away a few important concluding plot elements. (So if you haven't yet read this last installment of Fables, then perhaps you should do so before listening to this week's show. Go ahead. The guys don't  mind. They'll still be here waiting for you.) But this episode is also a retrospective on the entire run of Fables, its many twists and turns, as well as the many spin-offs it engendered. As such, the Two Guys also touch upon Jack of Fables, the Cinderella miniseries, The Literals, Fairest, the current series Fables: The Wolf among Us, and the standalone volumes 1001 Nights of Snowfall and Fables: Werewolves of the Heartland. (Unfortunately, they don't get around to discussing the prose novel, Peter and Max. There's only just so much time in a podcast episode.) It's obvious that both Andy and Derek appreciate Fables and see it as one of the most important titles of the past decade, but being the discerning scholars that they are, the guys don't shy away from critiquing the long-running series and pointing out some of the narrative elements they found "thin" or potentially problematic. But to paraphrase a common adage, we criticize those we love the most, and the guys make it clear what kind of respect,  admiration, and outright affection they have for Fables. This episode is fond, heartfelt farewell to the team of Willingham (writer), Mark Buckingham (penciller), Steve Leialoha (inker), Todd Klein (letterer), James Jean and João Ruas (cover artists), Shelly Bond (editor), and an unparalleled community of collaborators. Wed, 19 Aug 2015 14:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Happily Ever After? This is a bittersweet episode of The Comics Alternative, because Andy and Derek are both highlighting and saying goodbye to a title that has been one of their favorites these past thirteen years, Bill Willingham's Fables (Vertigo). The series finale was just recently released -- issue #150, which also doubles at volume 22 of the trade paperbacks -- and the guys go into detail about the wrap-up of the main storyline, the final confrontation between Snow White and Rose Red that has been building over the past several narrative arcs. They also discuss the collection of "Last" stories that round out this volume, short pieces illustrated by a variety of artists that give us a final (?) glimpse at some of Fables most important characters. In fact, this episode of the podcast is very spoiler-heavy, in that Derek and Andy couldn't figure out how to do justice to the series without giving away a few important concluding plot elements. (So if you haven't yet read this last installment of Fables, then perhaps you should do so before listening to this week's show. Go ahead. The guys don't  mind. They'll still be here waiting for you.) But this episode is also a retrospective on the entire run of Fables, its many twists and turns, as well as the many spin-offs it engendered. As such, the Two Guys also touch upon Jack of Fables, the Cinderella miniseries, The Literals, Fairest, the current series Fables: The Wolf among Us, and the standalone volumes 1001 Nights of Snowfall and Fables: Werewolves of the Heartland. (Unfortunately, they don't get around to discussing the prose novel, Peter and Max. There's only just so much time in a podcast episode.) It's obvious that both Andy and Derek appreciate Fables and see it as one of the most important titles of the past decade, but being the discerning scholars that they are, the guys don't shy away from critiquing the long-running series and pointing out some of the narrative elements they found "thin" or potentially problematic. But to paraphrase a common adage, we criticize those we love the most, and the guys make it clear what kind of respect,  admiration, and outright affection they have for Fables. This episode is fond, heartfelt farewell to the team of Willingham (writer), Mark Buckingham (penciller), Steve Leialoha (inker), Todd Klein (letterer), James Jean and João Ruas (cover artists), Shelly Bond (editor), and an unparalleled community of collaborators. This is a bittersweet episode of The Comics Alternative, because Andy and Derek are both highlighting and saying goodbye to a title that has been one of their favorites these past thirteen years, Bill Willingham's Fables (Vertigo). The series finale was just recently released -- issue #150, which also doubles at volume 22 of the trade paperbacks -- and the guys go into detail about the wrap-up of the main storyline, the final confrontation between Snow White and Rose Red that has been building over the past several narrative arcs. They also discuss the collection of "Last" stories that round out this volume, short pieces illustrated by a variety of artists that give us a final (?) glimpse at some of Fables most important characters. In fact, this episode of the podcast is very spoiler-heavy, in that Derek and Andy couldn't figure out how to do justice to the series without giving away a few important concluding plot elements. (So if you haven't yet read this last installment of Fables, then perhaps you should do so before listening to this week's show. Go ahead. The guys don't  mind. They'll still be here waiting for you.) But this episode is also a retrospective on the entire run of Fables, its many twists and turns, as well as the many spin-offs it engendered. As such, the Two Guys also touch upon Jack of Fables, the Cinderella miniseries, The Literals, Fairest, the current series Fables: The Wolf among Us, and the standalone volumes 1001 Nights of Snowfall and Fables: Werewolves of the Heartland. (Unfortunately, they don't get around to discussing the prose novel, Peter and Max. There's only just so much time in a podcast episode.) It's obvious that both Andy and Derek appreciate Fables and see it as one of the most important titles of the past decade, but being the discerning scholars that they are, the guys don't shy away from critiquing the long-running series and pointing out some of the narrative elements they found "thin" or potentially problematic. But to paraphrase a common adage, we criticize those we love the most, and the guys make it clear what kind of respect,  admiration, and outright affection they have for Fables. This episode is fond, heartfelt farewell to the team of Willingham (writer), Mark Buckingham (penciller), Steve Leialoha (inker), Todd Klein (letterer), James Jean and João Ruas (cover artists), Shelly Bond (editor), and an unparalleled community of collaborators.

]]> 6411 no Episode 148 - A Publisher Spotlight on Hang Dai Editions http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-148.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene and Derek turn a critical spotlight on the upcoming releases from the small press, Hang Dai Editions. The guys begin with a brief conversation with Dean Haspiel and Gregory Benton, two of the founders of the Hang Dai Studio, a collective that they founded along with Josh Neufeld and the late Seth Kushner. In this interview, they describe the origins of their publishing line and share many of their experiences in getting it off the ground. Hang Dai Editions began as their studio imprint back in 2013, and up until recently the creators had limited their publications to smaller, personal projects available mainly through conventions and local events. But as announced earlier this year, Hang Dai became part of Marc Arsenault's Alternative Comics publishing co-op, and with wider distribution, the Hang Dai folks wanted to up their game with longer and more ambitious projects. The first three releases since becoming part of the co-op, all being releases on September 15, are what Derek and Gene discuss for the remainder of the show. They begin with Haspiel's Beef with Tomato, a collection of autobiographic shorts that reads as a sequel or follow-up to his 2001 comic, Opposable Thumbs. As with the earlier work, the stories in this new Hang Dai book are woven together by particular themes or gain cohesion through a shared tone. In the case of Beef with Tomato, that commonality is largely the risks and the unexpected occurrences of close urban living. The book also includes a variety of short prose pieces and previously published comics that, while similar in subject matter and tone to the first (and newer) twelve stories, stand apart in style yet provide a nice coda to the collection as a whole. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to Gregory Benton's Smoke. Much like last year's B+F, this is a large-format wordless comic featuring Xolo, a large skull-faced dog based on Xolotl, the Aztec god associated with fire, sickness, and death. The story follows two brothers as they work on an industrial tobacco farm, and the hazardous conditions they work under spawn a surreal journey into another dimension, something dreamlike while at the same time darkly foreboding. Benton's vibrant, beautiful art is front and center in this work, and Gene and Derek point out his strategic handling of art styles when straddling the book's different narrative worlds. Finally, the guys look at Seth Kushner's Schmuck, a collection of twenty-two autobiographic stories, all written by Kushner but each illustrated by a different artist. Derek and Gene recognize many of those whose art is featured in the book -- e.g., Haspiel and Benton, but also Noah Van Sciver, Nick Bertozzi, and Josh Neufeld -- but there are several illustrators who are new to the guys. All of this gives Schmuck a feeling of both fragmentation and cohesiveness. Each artist provides a unique visual lens through which to interpret the book's protagonist, Adam Kessler, the fictional persona of Kushner. Yet at the same time, all of the stories unfold along one trajectory: Adam's attempts to find a meaningful relationship with a woman. Seth Kushner passed away earlier this year, but Schmuck was a life labor, ambitious in scope, that becomes fully realized next month. It, along with Smoke and Beef with Tomato, marks a new beginning for Hang Dai Editions, and one that Gene and Derek are excited to discuss. Wed, 12 Aug 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Brothers in Art On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene and Derek turn a critical spotlight on the upcoming releases from the small press, Hang Dai Editions. The guys begin with a brief conversation with Dean Haspiel and Gregory Benton, two of the founders of the Hang Dai Studio, a collective that they founded along with Josh Neufeld and the late Seth Kushner. In this interview, they describe the origins of their publishing line and share many of their experiences in getting it off the ground. Hang Dai Editions began as their studio imprint back in 2013, and up until recently the creators had limited their publications to smaller, personal projects available mainly through conventions and local events. But as announced earlier this year, Hang Dai became part of Marc Arsenault's Alternative Comics publishing co-op, and with wider distribution, the Hang Dai folks wanted to up their game with longer and more ambitious projects. The first three releases since becoming part of the co-op, all being releases on September 15, are what Derek and Gene discuss for the remainder of the show. They begin with Haspiel's Beef with Tomato, a collection of autobiographic shorts that reads as a sequel or follow-up to his 2001 comic, Opposable Thumbs. As with the earlier work, the stories in this new Hang Dai book are woven together by particular themes or gain cohesion through a shared tone. In the case of Beef with Tomato, that commonality is largely the risks and the unexpected occurrences of close urban living. The book also includes a variety of short prose pieces and previously published comics that, while similar in subject matter and tone to the first (and newer) twelve stories, stand apart in style yet provide a nice coda to the collection as a whole. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to Gregory Benton's Smoke. Much like last year's B+F, this is a large-format wordless comic featuring Xolo, a large skull-faced dog based on Xolotl, the Aztec god associated with fire, sickness, and death. The story follows two brothers as they work on an industrial tobacco farm, and the hazardous conditions they work under spawn a surreal journey into another dimension, something dreamlike while at the same time darkly foreboding. Benton's vibrant, beautiful art is front and center in this work, and Gene and Derek point out his strategic handling of art styles when straddling the book's different narrative worlds. Finally, the guys look at Seth Kushner's Schmuck, a collection of twenty-two autobiographic stories, all written by Kushner but each illustrated by a different artist. Derek and Gene recognize many of those whose art is featured in the book -- e.g., Haspiel and Benton, but also Noah Van Sciver, Nick Bertozzi, and Josh Neufeld -- but there are several illustrators who are new to the guys. All of this gives Schmuck a feeling of both fragmentation and cohesiveness. Each artist provides a unique visual lens through which to interpret the book's protagonist, Adam Kessler, the fictional persona of Kushner. Yet at the same time, all of the stories unfold along one trajectory: Adam's attempts to find a meaningful relationship with a woman. Seth Kushner passed away earlier this year, but Schmuck was a life labor, ambitious in scope, that becomes fully realized next month. It, along with Smoke and Beef with Tomato, marks a new beginning for Hang Dai Editions, and one that Gene and Derek are excited to discuss. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene and Derek turn a critical spotlight on the upcoming releases from the small press, Hang Dai Editions. The guys begin with a brief conversation with Dean Haspiel and Gregory Benton, two of the founders of the Hang Dai Studio, a collective that they founded along with Josh Neufeld and the late Seth Kushner. In this interview, they describe the origins of their publishing line and share many of their experiences in getting it off the ground. Hang Dai Editions began as their studio imprint back in 2013, and up until recently the creators had limited their publications to smaller, personal projects available mainly through conventions and local events. But as announced earlier this year, Hang Dai became part of Marc Arsenault's Alternative Comics publishing co-op, and with wider distribution, the Hang Dai folks wanted to up their game with longer and more ambitious projects. The first three releases since becoming part of the co-op, all being releases on September 15, are what Derek and Gene discuss for the remainder of the show. They begin with Haspiel's Beef with Tomato, a collection of autobiographic shorts that reads as a sequel or follow-up to his 2001 comic, Opposable Thumbs. As with the earlier work, the stories in this new Hang Dai book are woven together by particular themes or gain cohesion through a shared tone. In the case of Beef with Tomato, that commonality is largely the risks and the unexpected occurrences of close urban living. The book also includes a variety of short prose pieces and previously published comics that, while similar in subject matter and tone to the first (and newer) twelve stories, stand apart in style yet provide a nice coda to the collection as a whole. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to Gregory Benton's Smoke. Much like last year's B+F, this is a large-format wordless comic featuring Xolo, a large skull-faced dog based on Xolotl, the Aztec god associated with fire, sickness, and death. The story follows two brothers as they work on an industrial tobacco farm, and the hazardous conditions they work under spawn a surreal journey into another dimension, something dreamlike while at the same time darkly foreboding. Benton's vibrant, beautiful art is front and center in this work, and Gene and Derek point out his strategic handling of art styles when straddling the book's different narrative worlds. Finally, the guys look at Seth Kushner's Schmuck, a collection of twenty-two autobiographic stories, all written by Kushner but each illustrated by a different artist. Derek and Gene recognize many of those whose art is featured in the book -- e.g., Haspiel and Benton, but also Noah Van Sciver, Nick Bertozzi, and Josh Neufeld -- but there are several illustrators who are new to the guys. All of this gives Schmuck a feeling of both fragmentation and cohesiveness. Each artist provides a unique visual lens through which to interpret the book's protagonist, Adam Kessler, the fictional persona of Kushner. Yet at the same time, all of the stories unfold along one trajectory: Adam's attempts to find a meaningful relationship with a woman. Seth Kushner passed away earlier this year, but Schmuck was a life labor, ambitious in scope, that becomes fully realized next month. It, along with Smoke and Beef with Tomato, marks a new beginning for Hang Dai Editions, and one that Gene and Derek are excited to discuss.

]]> 6222 no Webcomics - Reviews of Plox, Bird Boy, and The Mouth http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics9.mp3 This August episode of the webcomics series begins with an introduction to Sean Kleefeld, the new cohost of the show. With Andy W. deciding to step down from his duties -- he'll be doing other exciting things with The Comics Alternative in the weeks to come! -- Derek has asked Sean to step in and join him for the guys'  monthly look at webcomics. So listeners of the series can now benefit from Sean's discerning critical eye and deep expertise in the medium. In fact, all of the titles that they are discussing this month stem from Sean's recommendations. They begin with Steve Hamaker's Plox, a currently ongoing series centered on the relationships among three online gamers. While the premise may appear at first glance to be hackneyed, a satiric look at gaming geeks and fanboys/girls, this narrative is anything but. In fact, Hamaker's focus is more on the dynamics of identity formation and interpersonal relations than it is on pop culture stereotypes. One of the themes woven throughout the series (so far) is the discrepancy between our public persona and the ways we define ourselves from within, and how that tension reveals a search for authenticity. Next Sean and Derek look at Bird Boy, a fantasy/adventure series from Anne Szabla. This is the coming-of-age story of Bali, a young and diminutive would-be hunter whose inadvertent heroism -- and the accidental discovery of a legendary sword -- plunges him headlong into his tribe's creation myth. The guys comment not only on Szabla's beautifully detailed art, but also on her keen sense of pacing, how she sequences her panels to give depth to the action. Beginning in October 2010, this webcomic that is currently into its second volume. Finally, the guys look at an already completed work, Brendan Albetsky's The Mouth. This is a short work that can be found on Hell to Breakfast, the home to the Albetsky's online art as well as his podcast, The Hell to Breakfast Show. On the surface The Mouth is the story of three siblings who venture into the forest for an unlikely, and gothic-inspired, revelation. However, densely packed within this brief webcomic is a meditative, philosophical exploration -- Sean calls it zen-like -- exploring the very process and purpose of life. All three of this month's webcomics are worth checking out, and the guys' detailed discussion of them is just the right springboard for what promises to be a new and fruitful cohosting relationship. Mon, 10 Aug 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal New Blood This August episode of the webcomics series begins with an introduction to Sean Kleefeld, the new cohost of the show. With Andy W. deciding to step down from his duties -- he'll be doing other exciting things with The Comics Alternative in the weeks to come! -- Derek has asked Sean to step in and join him for the guys'  monthly look at webcomics. So listeners of the series can now benefit from Sean's discerning critical eye and deep expertise in the medium. In fact, all of the titles that they are discussing this month stem from Sean's recommendations. They begin with Steve Hamaker's Plox, a currently ongoing series centered on the relationships among three online gamers. While the premise may appear at first glance to be hackneyed, a satiric look at gaming geeks and fanboys/girls, this narrative is anything but. In fact, Hamaker's focus is more on the dynamics of identity formation and interpersonal relations than it is on pop culture stereotypes. One of the themes woven throughout the series (so far) is the discrepancy between our public persona and the ways we define ourselves from within, and how that tension reveals a search for authenticity. Next Sean and Derek look at Bird Boy, a fantasy/adventure series from Anne Szabla. This is the coming-of-age story of Bali, a young and diminutive would-be hunter whose inadvertent heroism -- and the accidental discovery of a legendary sword -- plunges him headlong into his tribe's creation myth. The guys comment not only on Szabla's beautifully detailed art, but also on her keen sense of pacing, how she sequences her panels to give depth to the action. Beginning in October 2010, this webcomic that is currently into its second volume. Finally, the guys look at an already completed work, Brendan Albetsky's The Mouth. This is a short work that can be found on Hell to Breakfast, the home to the Albetsky's online art as well as his podcast, The Hell to Breakfast Show. On the surface The Mouth is the story of three siblings who venture into the forest for an unlikely, and gothic-inspired, revelation. However, densely packed within this brief webcomic is a meditative, philosophical exploration -- Sean calls it zen-like -- exploring the very process and purpose of life. All three of this month's webcomics are worth checking out, and the guys' detailed discussion of them is just the right springboard for what promises to be a new and fruitful cohosting relationship. This August episode of the webcomics series begins with an introduction to Sean Kleefeld, the new cohost of the show. With Andy W. deciding to step down from his duties -- he'll be doing other exciting things with The Comics Alternative in the weeks to come! -- Derek has asked Sean to step in and join him for the guys'  monthly look at webcomics. So listeners of the series can now benefit from Sean's discerning critical eye and deep expertise in the medium. In fact, all of the titles that they are discussing this month stem from Sean's recommendations. They begin with Steve Hamaker's Plox, a currently ongoing series centered on the relationships among three online gamers. While the premise may appear at first glance to be hackneyed, a satiric look at gaming geeks and fanboys/girls, this narrative is anything but. In fact, Hamaker's focus is more on the dynamics of identity formation and interpersonal relations than it is on pop culture stereotypes. One of the themes woven throughout the series (so far) is the discrepancy between our public persona and the ways we define ourselves from within, and how that tension reveals a search for authenticity. Next Sean and Derek look at Bird Boy, a fantasy/adventure series from Anne Szabla. This is the coming-of-age story of Bali, a young and diminutive would-be hunter whose inadvertent heroism -- and the accidental discovery of a legendary sword -- plunges him headlong into his tribe's creation myth. The guys comment not only on Szabla's beautifully detailed art, but also on her keen sense of pacing, how she sequences her panels to give depth to the action. Beginning in October 2010, this webcomic that is currently into its second volume. Finally, the guys look at an already completed work, Brendan Albetsky's The Mouth. This is a short work that can be found on Hell to Breakfast, the home to the Albetsky's online art as well as his podcast, The Hell to Breakfast Show. On the surface The Mouth is the story of three siblings who venture into the forest for an unlikely, and gothic-inspired, revelation. However, densely packed within this brief webcomic is a meditative, philosophical exploration -- Sean calls it zen-like -- exploring the very process and purpose of life. All three of this month's webcomics are worth checking out, and the guys' detailed discussion of them is just the right springboard for what promises to be a new and fruitful cohosting relationship.

]]> 6427 no Special - A Roundtable Discussion on Libraries and Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special6.mp3 Occasionally The Comics Alternative will feature a special episode devoted to a specific comics-related topic, and on this show, the Two Guys focus on issues surrounding libraries and comics. This subject matter is particularly appropriate, given the fact that Andy Wolverton is a public librarian working extensively with comics and graphic novels in Anne Arundel County, MD. So the guys decided to invite other librarian-educators on the podcast for a lively roundtable discussion on the topic. Joining them are Carol Tilley, an associate professor in the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Robert Weiner, a humanities librarian at Texas Tech University. On this special episode they discuss a variety of issues surrounding comics and libraries, including labeling and categorization -- e.g., Is the term "graphic novel" more advantageous for cataloging? -- the challenge of hybridized texts, community outreach and comics, the interaction between the classrooms and libraries, explicit content and censorship, the issue of canon formation, librarians as comics curators, mainstream versus "alternative" comics acquisitions, and the role of librarians as comics educators. And this is just the tip of the discussion iceberg. As the discussants demonstrate, this is indeed a rich topic, and there are so many other facets that they didn't have the time to touch upon. But what they do cover is truly thought-provoking, presenting ideas and posing questions that could easily lead to another such roundtable. Fri, 07 Aug 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Browsing the Comics Stacks Occasionally The Comics Alternative will feature a special episode devoted to a specific comics-related topic, and on this show, the Two Guys focus on issues surrounding libraries and comics. This subject matter is particularly appropriate, given the fact that Andy Wolverton is a public librarian working extensively with comics and graphic novels in Anne Arundel County, MD. So the guys decided to invite other librarian-educators on the podcast for a lively roundtable discussion on the topic. Joining them are Carol Tilley, an associate professor in the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Robert Weiner, a humanities librarian at Texas Tech University. On this special episode they discuss a variety of issues surrounding comics and libraries, including labeling and categorization -- e.g., Is the term "graphic novel" more advantageous for cataloging? -- the challenge of hybridized texts, community outreach and comics, the interaction between the classrooms and libraries, explicit content and censorship, the issue of canon formation, librarians as comics curators, mainstream versus "alternative" comics acquisitions, and the role of librarians as comics educators. And this is just the tip of the discussion iceberg. As the discussants demonstrate, this is indeed a rich topic, and there are so many other facets that they didn't have the time to touch upon. But what they do cover is truly thought-provoking, presenting ideas and posing questions that could easily lead to another such roundtable. Occasionally The Comics Alternative will feature a special episode devoted to a specific comics-related topic, and on this show, the Two Guys focus on issues surrounding libraries and comics. This subject matter is particularly appropriate, given the fact that Andy Wolverton is a public librarian working extensively with comics and graphic novels in Anne Arundel County, MD. So the guys decided to invite other librarian-educators on the podcast for a lively roundtable discussion on the topic. Joining them are Carol Tilley, an associate professor in the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Robert Weiner, a humanities librarian at Texas Tech University. On this special episode they discuss a variety of issues surrounding comics and libraries, including labeling and categorization -- e.g., Is the term "graphic novel" more advantageous for cataloging? -- the challenge of hybridized texts, community outreach and comics, the interaction between the classrooms and libraries, explicit content and censorship, the issue of canon formation, librarians as comics curators, mainstream versus "alternative" comics acquisitions, and the role of librarians as comics educators. And this is just the tip of the discussion iceberg. As the discussants demonstrate, this is indeed a rich topic, and there are so many other facets that they didn't have the time to touch upon. But what they do cover is truly thought-provoking, presenting ideas and posing questions that could easily lead to another such roundtable.

]]> 4870 no Interviews - Jeremy Haun and Jason Hurley http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews53-Haun-Hurley.mp3 The Two Guys are pleased to have as their guests on the show the creators behind the new series coming out from Image Comics, The Beauty, Jeremy Haun and Jason Hurley. The first issue will be released next Tuesday, August 12th, and in anticipation for this event, Andy and Derek wanted to have the two on the show to talk about their unique narrative. The story is premised on a sexually transmitted disease that, once contracted, makes people appear more physically attractive. They turn more svelte, their skin becomes clearer, their features appear more angular, they assume an alluring glow, and, overall, they take on a look that more closely represents our society’s notions of beauty. In fact, Jason and Jeremy share some of the sociological, psychological, and philosophical underpinnings of their narrative and tease how those themes might play out as the series unfolds. Yet, while there are some heavy issues undergirding their story, The Beauty is also a fun mystery. Detectives Foster and Vaughn, two officers assigned to “anti-beauty” terrorist activity, must learn if there is any connection between a mysterious disease-related death and any politically motivated agendas. In addition to discussing the series’ storyline, the guys also ask Jeremy and Jason about The Beauty‘s curious publicity campaigns. Indeed, Andy begins the interview by asking the creators about the condom and STD pamphlet Jeremy was giving out at HeroesCon back in June. There is also the #BeautyFree meme drive they’re helping to generate…and that The Comics Alternative is gladly participating in. All in all, the Two Guys have a wonderful time talking with Jeremy and Jason, learning many of the behind-the-scenes angles of this beautifully drawn and beautifully written new series. Be sure to check out The Beauty #1 on its release next Wednesday! Thu, 06 Aug 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Spreading the Love The Two Guys are pleased to have as their guests on the show the creators behind the new series coming out from Image Comics, The Beauty, Jeremy Haun and Jason Hurley. The first issue will be released next Tuesday, August 12th, and in anticipation for this event, Andy and Derek wanted to have the two on the show to talk about their unique narrative. The story is premised on a sexually transmitted disease that, once contracted, makes people appear more physically attractive. They turn more svelte, their skin becomes clearer, their features appear more angular, they assume an alluring glow, and, overall, they take on a look that more closely represents our society’s notions of beauty. In fact, Jason and Jeremy share some of the sociological, psychological, and philosophical underpinnings of their narrative and tease how those themes might play out as the series unfolds. Yet, while there are some heavy issues undergirding their story, The Beauty is also a fun mystery. Detectives Foster and Vaughn, two officers assigned to “anti-beauty” terrorist activity, must learn if there is any connection between a mysterious disease-related death and any politically motivated agendas. In addition to discussing the series’ storyline, the guys also ask Jeremy and Jason about The Beauty‘s curious publicity campaigns. Indeed, Andy begins the interview by asking the creators about the condom and STD pamphlet Jeremy was giving out at HeroesCon back in June. There is also the #BeautyFree meme drive they’re helping to generate…and that The Comics Alternative is gladly participating in. All in all, the Two Guys have a wonderful time talking with Jeremy and Jason, learning many of the behind-the-scenes angles of this beautifully drawn and beautifully written new series. Be sure to check out The Beauty #1 on its release next Wednesday! The Two Guys are pleased to have as their guests on the show the creators behind the new series coming out from Image Comics, The Beauty, Jeremy Haun and Jason Hurley. The first issue will be released next Tuesday, August 12th, and in anticipation for this event, Andy and Derek wanted to have the two on the show to talk about their unique narrative. The story is premised on a sexually transmitted disease that, once contracted, makes people appear more physically attractive. They turn more svelte, their skin becomes clearer, their features appear more angular, they assume an alluring glow, and, overall, they take on a look that more closely represents our society’s notions of beauty. In fact, Jason and Jeremy share some of the sociological, psychological, and philosophical underpinnings of their narrative and tease how those themes might play out as the series unfolds. Yet, while there are some heavy issues undergirding their story, The Beauty is also a fun mystery. Detectives Foster and Vaughn, two officers assigned to “anti-beauty” terrorist activity, must learn if there is any connection between a mysterious disease-related death and any politically motivated agendas. In addition to discussing the series’ storyline, the guys also ask Jeremy and Jason about The Beauty‘s curious publicity campaigns. Indeed, Andy begins the interview by asking the creators about the condom and STD pamphlet Jeremy was giving out at HeroesCon back in June. There is also the #BeautyFree meme drive they’re helping to generate…and that The Comics Alternative is gladly participating in. All in all, the Two Guys have a wonderful time talking with Jeremy and Jason, learning many of the behind-the-scenes angles of this beautifully drawn and beautifully written new series. Be sure to check out The Beauty #1 on its release next Wednesday!

]]> 4472 no Episode 147 - The August Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-147.mp3 This week Andy and Derek look through the August Previews catalog. As they do at the beginning of every month, they go through the most recent solicits for upcoming titles and share their "wish lists," highlighting comics that they plan to read, that are potentially significant, and that are notable enough to earn a few moments of the guys' attention. This is also the three-year anniversary of The Comics Alternative, and the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics celebrate by putting on party hats and reading some of the appreciative listener mail they've been receiving. And then after sharing the love, they get into the nitty-gritty of this week's show: combing through the Previews catalog. As listeners will discover, this is yet another long Previews episode, with the guys covering a lot of territory in over two hours of discussion. (This is what happens when the offerings for in the catalog are plentiful and engaging.) But they think that the time is well spent, and in this episode you're sure to be introduced to a variety of exciting upcoming titles. Wed, 05 Aug 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal No Exit Meets Pretty Woman This week Andy and Derek look through the August Previews catalog. As they do at the beginning of every month, they go through the most recent solicits for upcoming titles and share their "wish lists," highlighting comics that they plan to read, that are potentially significant, and that are notable enough to earn a few moments of the guys' attention. This is also the three-year anniversary of The Comics Alternative, and the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics celebrate by putting on party hats and reading some of the appreciative listener mail they've been receiving. And then after sharing the love, they get into the nitty-gritty of this week's show: combing through the Previews catalog. As listeners will discover, this is yet another long Previews episode, with the guys covering a lot of territory in over two hours of discussion. (This is what happens when the offerings for in the catalog are plentiful and engaging.) But they think that the time is well spent, and in this episode you're sure to be introduced to a variety of exciting upcoming titles. This week Andy and Derek look through the August Previews catalog. As they do at the beginning of every month, they go through the most recent solicits for upcoming titles and share their "wish lists," highlighting comics that they plan to read, that are potentially significant, and that are notable enough to earn a few moments of the guys' attention. This is also the three-year anniversary of The Comics Alternative, and the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics celebrate by putting on party hats and reading some of the appreciative listener mail they've been receiving. And then after sharing the love, they get into the nitty-gritty of this week's show: combing through the Previews catalog. As listeners will discover, this is yet another long Previews episode, with the guys covering a lot of territory in over two hours of discussion. (This is what happens when the offerings for in the catalog are plentiful and engaging.) But they think that the time is well spent, and in this episode you're sure to be introduced to a variety of exciting upcoming titles.

]]> 8182 no Manga - Reviews of Monster and In Clothes Called Fat http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Manga4.mp3 For July's manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two distinctly different titles. They begin by looking at Naoki Urasawa's Monster series published through Viz Media. The fifth volume of the new Perfect Editions was just released last week, so the guys thought this would be a great opportunity to introduce listeners to this dramatic saga. Monster is the story of a brilliant young surgeon, Dr. Kenzō Tenma, who's accused of murder and then goes on the lam to find the real killer: a boy that he had perviously saved from a traumatic head wound. Tenma's search for the enigmatic and elusive figure, now growing into young adulthood, becomes the driving force of the narrative, with Urasawa introducing a variety of characters and unlikely scenarios along the way. The itinerant nature of this series reminded Derek of the old The Fugitive TV series starring David Janssen. And Shea, in fact, thought that the episodic feel of the title began to wear thin as the story progressed, with Urasawa introducing diverse characters in an almost formulaic manner so as to keep teasing out the drama. But this is a highly engaging series with clean, detailed line drawing and rarely flagging momentum. Next, the guys turn from seinen to josei with Moyoco Anno's In Clothes Called Fat (Vertical). This is a one-volume story about eating disorders, body image, and the dark side of fashion consciousness on young women. Anno herself comes from a fashion background, and her insights on cultural psychology are the underlying bedrock of this narrative. In fact, both Shea and Derek are highly impressed by the ways in which Anno gets into her characters, adeptly revealing how they think and the complexities driving their actions. Body image isn't the only focus of this story. Anno shows how social pressures, groupthink, and low self-esteem undergird many of our dysfunctional relationships. While Shea likes the book but isn't completely satisfied with its ending -- he feels the pacing shifts too dramatically in the conclusion -- Derek is impressed with Anno's style of narration, allowing characters multiple modes of expression that represent the psychological mechanisms at work. In all, this is an important and socially conscious work for male and female readers alike. Fri, 31 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wilford Brimley For July's manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two distinctly different titles. They begin by looking at Naoki Urasawa's Monster series published through Viz Media. The fifth volume of the new Perfect Editions was just released last week, so the guys thought this would be a great opportunity to introduce listeners to this dramatic saga. Monster is the story of a brilliant young surgeon, Dr. Kenzō Tenma, who's accused of murder and then goes on the lam to find the real killer: a boy that he had perviously saved from a traumatic head wound. Tenma's search for the enigmatic and elusive figure, now growing into young adulthood, becomes the driving force of the narrative, with Urasawa introducing a variety of characters and unlikely scenarios along the way. The itinerant nature of this series reminded Derek of the old The Fugitive TV series starring David Janssen. And Shea, in fact, thought that the episodic feel of the title began to wear thin as the story progressed, with Urasawa introducing diverse characters in an almost formulaic manner so as to keep teasing out the drama. But this is a highly engaging series with clean, detailed line drawing and rarely flagging momentum. Next, the guys turn from seinen to josei with Moyoco Anno's In Clothes Called Fat (Vertical). This is a one-volume story about eating disorders, body image, and the dark side of fashion consciousness on young women. Anno herself comes from a fashion background, and her insights on cultural psychology are the underlying bedrock of this narrative. In fact, both Shea and Derek are highly impressed by the ways in which Anno gets into her characters, adeptly revealing how they think and the complexities driving their actions. Body image isn't the only focus of this story. Anno shows how social pressures, groupthink, and low self-esteem undergird many of our dysfunctional relationships. While Shea likes the book but isn't completely satisfied with its ending -- he feels the pacing shifts too dramatically in the conclusion -- Derek is impressed with Anno's style of narration, allowing characters multiple modes of expression that represent the psychological mechanisms at work. In all, this is an important and socially conscious work for male and female readers alike. For July's manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two distinctly different titles. They begin by looking at Naoki Urasawa's Monster series published through Viz Media. The fifth volume of the new Perfect Editions was just released last week, so the guys thought this would be a great opportunity to introduce listeners to this dramatic saga. Monster is the story of a brilliant young surgeon, Dr. Kenzō Tenma, who's accused of murder and then goes on the lam to find the real killer: a boy that he had perviously saved from a traumatic head wound. Tenma's search for the enigmatic and elusive figure, now growing into young adulthood, becomes the driving force of the narrative, with Urasawa introducing a variety of characters and unlikely scenarios along the way. The itinerant nature of this series reminded Derek of the old The Fugitive TV series starring David Janssen. And Shea, in fact, thought that the episodic feel of the title began to wear thin as the story progressed, with Urasawa introducing diverse characters in an almost formulaic manner so as to keep teasing out the drama. But this is a highly engaging series with clean, detailed line drawing and rarely flagging momentum. Next, the guys turn from seinen to josei with Moyoco Anno's In Clothes Called Fat (Vertical). This is a one-volume story about eating disorders, body image, and the dark side of fashion consciousness on young women. Anno herself comes from a fashion background, and her insights on cultural psychology are the underlying bedrock of this narrative. In fact, both Shea and Derek are highly impressed by the ways in which Anno gets into her characters, adeptly revealing how they think and the complexities driving their actions. Body image isn't the only focus of this story. Anno shows how social pressures, groupthink, and low self-esteem undergird many of our dysfunctional relationships. While Shea likes the book but isn't completely satisfied with its ending -- he feels the pacing shifts too dramatically in the conclusion -- Derek is impressed with Anno's style of narration, allowing characters multiple modes of expression that represent the psychological mechanisms at work. In all, this is an important and socially conscious work for male and female readers alike.

]]> 5632 no Episode 146 - Reviews of Will Eisner’s The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years and Blazing Quantum http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-146.mp3 Action * Mystery * AdventureOn this week's episode, Andy and Derek take a look at two very different titles. They begin with a long, extensive look at Will Eisner's The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years (DC Comics). In fact, their discussion of the new Spirit collection takes up the vast majority of the show, lasting for almost and hour and forty-five minutes! So there's a lot of ground that the guys cover with this book, although in many ways they only just scratch the surface. Both Derek and Andy are huge fans of Will Eisner, and The Spirit in particular, so the conversation never flags. They highlight a variety of the stories that are collected in this volume, pointing out why they are important in The Spirit's history. But they also mention some of the notable Spirit strips that aren't included in the book, wondering why a few were excluded. They also speculate on why, and lament the fact that, there wasn't a new introduction (or even a new afterword) written for this anniversary volume. The Neil Gaiman piece that is included in the book was originally written for 2005's much shorter The Best of The Spirit. Derek, in particular, feels that this important collection would have benefited from a new introductory essay that would have provided more context, especially for those unfamiliar with Eisner's legendary figure. Still, the 75th anniversary volume is one of the guys' highlights of the year so far and deserves a place on every comics reader's shelf. Next, they shift gears for a completely different kind of book, William Keops Ibañez's minicomic Blazing Quantum. This is a collection of short stories created between 2005 and 2011, at times (apparently) autobiographical and at times historical, that lead to an unlikely and potentially fantastical ending. Most of the pieces revolve around a young high-school student named Billy and his everyday interactions, and frustrations, with family and friends. This is a promising self-published title that has both Andy and Derek anticipating the next installment. And they are sure to keep visiting Ibañez's's website for the latest updates on his art and when they can expect a new issue of Blazing Quantum. Wed, 29 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Action * Mystery * Adventure Action * Mystery * AdventureOn this week's episode, Andy and Derek take a look at two very different titles. They begin with a long, extensive look at Will Eisner's The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years (DC Comics). In fact, their discussion of the new Spirit collection takes up the vast majority of the show, lasting for almost and hour and forty-five minutes! So there's a lot of ground that the guys cover with this book, although in many ways they only just scratch the surface. Both Derek and Andy are huge fans of Will Eisner, and The Spirit in particular, so the conversation never flags. They highlight a variety of the stories that are collected in this volume, pointing out why they are important in The Spirit's history. But they also mention some of the notable Spirit strips that aren't included in the book, wondering why a few were excluded. They also speculate on why, and lament the fact that, there wasn't a new introduction (or even a new afterword) written for this anniversary volume. The Neil Gaiman piece that is included in the book was originally written for 2005's much shorter The Best of The Spirit. Derek, in particular, feels that this important collection would have benefited from a new introductory essay that would have provided more context, especially for those unfamiliar with Eisner's legendary figure. Still, the 75th anniversary volume is one of the guys' highlights of the year so far and deserves a place on every comics reader's shelf. Next, they shift gears for a completely different kind of book, William Keops Ibañez's minicomic Blazing Quantum. This is a collection of short stories created between 2005 and 2011, at times (apparently) autobiographical and at times historical, that lead to an unlikely and potentially fantastical ending. Most of the pieces revolve around a young high-school student named Billy and his everyday interactions, and frustrations, with family and friends. This is a promising self-published title that has both Andy and Derek anticipating the next installment. And they are sure to keep visiting Ibañez's's website for the latest updates on his art and when they can expect a new issue of Blazing Quantum. Action * Mystery * AdventureOn this week's episode, Andy and Derek take a look at two very different titles. They begin with a long, extensive look at Will Eisner's The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years (DC Comics). In fact, their discussion of the new Spirit collection takes up the vast majority of the show, lasting for almost and hour and forty-five minutes! So there's a lot of ground that the guys cover with this book, although in many ways they only just scratch the surface. Both Derek and Andy are huge fans of Will Eisner, and The Spirit in particular, so the conversation never flags. They highlight a variety of the stories that are collected in this volume, pointing out why they are important in The Spirit's history. But they also mention some of the notable Spirit strips that aren't included in the book, wondering why a few were excluded. They also speculate on why, and lament the fact that, there wasn't a new introduction (or even a new afterword) written for this anniversary volume. The Neil Gaiman piece that is included in the book was originally written for 2005's much shorter The Best of The Spirit. Derek, in particular, feels that this important collection would have benefited from a new introductory essay that would have provided more context, especially for those unfamiliar with Eisner's legendary figure. Still, the 75th anniversary volume is one of the guys' highlights of the year so far and deserves a place on every comics reader's shelf. Next, they shift gears for a completely different kind of book, William Keops Ibañez's minicomic Blazing Quantum. This is a collection of short stories created between 2005 and 2011, at times (apparently) autobiographical and at times historical, that lead to an unlikely and potentially fantastical ending. Most of the pieces revolve around a young high-school student named Billy and his everyday interactions, and frustrations, with family and friends. This is a promising self-published title that has both Andy and Derek anticipating the next installment. And they are sure to keep visiting Ibañez's's website for the latest updates on his art and when they can expect a new issue of Blazing Quantum.

]]> 8537 no Webcomics - Reviews of The Secret Voice, Titan, and Black Is the Color http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics8.mp3 On the July webcomics show, Andy W. and Derek do something different. Not only do they look at two current and ongoing series, along with one already completed title -- as is their usual format -- but they do so by focusing on just one specific webcomics outlet: Study Group Comics. The guys begin, appropriately enough, by looking at current work from Zack Soto, the publisher of Study Group. His comic, The Secret Voice, is a mashup of various genres, part adventure, part science fiction, part superhero, and (at least in the beginning) part Jules Verne-inspired fantasy. So far there are five completed chapters of The Secret Voice, and as the narrative unfolds, Soto is creating an ever-expanding and complex world centered around the enigmatic Dr. Galapagos. Next, the guys discuss François Vigneault's Titan, a futuristic sci-fi drama set in an hydrocarbon processing refinery on Saturn's satellite, Titan. Vigneault's story is perhaps the most socially charged of this month's bunch, touching upon class and ethnic conflicts, and even venturing at times into scientific ethics. Titan is in its fourth chapter, with Vigneault currently posting updates. Finally, Derek and Andy look at a Study Group webcomic that was completed back in 2012, Julia Gfrörer's Black Is the Color. Her story is relatively simple and straightforward -- a sailor is cast adrift from his ship and encounters a fabled mermaid -- but Gfrörer's art and pacing add a sophistication that give depth to this relatively short narrative. Black Is the Color is driven by subtleties and innuendo, ultimately embracing an ambiguity that opens up text in unexpected ways. This story was published in hardcopy by Fantagraphics in 2013, and in fact, the other webcomics discussed this month have seen printed form, and through Study Group Comics. There are two comic-book issues of The Secret Voice published so far, and one of Titan. Listeners of the monthly webcomics series will be saddened to learn that this will be the last episode in which Andy Wolverton will serve as regular cohost. Andy will still be a big part of The Comics Alternative family of podcasts -- he's not going anywhere soon -- but he's decided to hand over his webcomic-analyzing duties to another so that he can pursue another project for The Comics Alternative. So keep your eyes open for more exciting stuff from Andy W.! Beginning in August, Derek's cohost for the webcomics series will be Sean Kleefeld, an incisive critic and webcomics maven who is sure to inject some gravitas into the show. Fri, 24 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Thanks, Ang! On the July webcomics show, Andy W. and Derek do something different. Not only do they look at two current and ongoing series, along with one already completed title -- as is their usual format -- but they do so by focusing on just one specific webcomics outlet: Study Group Comics. The guys begin, appropriately enough, by looking at current work from Zack Soto, the publisher of Study Group. His comic, The Secret Voice, is a mashup of various genres, part adventure, part science fiction, part superhero, and (at least in the beginning) part Jules Verne-inspired fantasy. So far there are five completed chapters of The Secret Voice, and as the narrative unfolds, Soto is creating an ever-expanding and complex world centered around the enigmatic Dr. Galapagos. Next, the guys discuss François Vigneault's Titan, a futuristic sci-fi drama set in an hydrocarbon processing refinery on Saturn's satellite, Titan. Vigneault's story is perhaps the most socially charged of this month's bunch, touching upon class and ethnic conflicts, and even venturing at times into scientific ethics. Titan is in its fourth chapter, with Vigneault currently posting updates. Finally, Derek and Andy look at a Study Group webcomic that was completed back in 2012, Julia Gfrörer's Black Is the Color. Her story is relatively simple and straightforward -- a sailor is cast adrift from his ship and encounters a fabled mermaid -- but Gfrörer's art and pacing add a sophistication that give depth to this relatively short narrative. Black Is the Color is driven by subtleties and innuendo, ultimately embracing an ambiguity that opens up text in unexpected ways. This story was published in hardcopy by Fantagraphics in 2013, and in fact, the other webcomics discussed this month have seen printed form, and through Study Group Comics. There are two comic-book issues of The Secret Voice published so far, and one of Titan. Listeners of the monthly webcomics series will be saddened to learn that this will be the last episode in which Andy Wolverton will serve as regular cohost. Andy will still be a big part of The Comics Alternative family of podcasts -- he's not going anywhere soon -- but he's decided to hand over his webcomic-analyzing duties to another so that he can pursue another project for The Comics Alternative. So keep your eyes open for more exciting stuff from Andy W.! Beginning in August, Derek's cohost for the webcomics series will be Sean Kleefeld, an incisive critic and webcomics maven who is sure to inject some gravitas into the show. On the July webcomics show, Andy W. and Derek do something different. Not only do they look at two current and ongoing series, along with one already completed title -- as is their usual format -- but they do so by focusing on just one specific webcomics outlet: Study Group Comics. The guys begin, appropriately enough, by looking at current work from Zack Soto, the publisher of Study Group. His comic, The Secret Voice, is a mashup of various genres, part adventure, part science fiction, part superhero, and (at least in the beginning) part Jules Verne-inspired fantasy. So far there are five completed chapters of The Secret Voice, and as the narrative unfolds, Soto is creating an ever-expanding and complex world centered around the enigmatic Dr. Galapagos. Next, the guys discuss François Vigneault's Titan, a futuristic sci-fi drama set in an hydrocarbon processing refinery on Saturn's satellite, Titan. Vigneault's story is perhaps the most socially charged of this month's bunch, touching upon class and ethnic conflicts, and even venturing at times into scientific ethics. Titan is in its fourth chapter, with Vigneault currently posting updates. Finally, Derek and Andy look at a Study Group webcomic that was completed back in 2012, Julia Gfrörer's Black Is the Color. Her story is relatively simple and straightforward -- a sailor is cast adrift from his ship and encounters a fabled mermaid -- but Gfrörer's art and pacing add a sophistication that give depth to this relatively short narrative. Black Is the Color is driven by subtleties and innuendo, ultimately embracing an ambiguity that opens up text in unexpected ways. This story was published in hardcopy by Fantagraphics in 2013, and in fact, the other webcomics discussed this month have seen printed form, and through Study Group Comics. There are two comic-book issues of The Secret Voice published so far, and one of Titan. Listeners of the monthly webcomics series will be saddened to learn that this will be the last episode in which Andy Wolverton will serve as regular cohost. Andy will still be a big part of The Comics Alternative family of podcasts -- he's not going anywhere soon -- but he's decided to hand over his webcomic-analyzing duties to another so that he can pursue another project for The Comics Alternative. So keep your eyes open for more exciting stuff from Andy W.! Beginning in August, Derek's cohost for the webcomics series will be Sean Kleefeld, an incisive critic and webcomics maven who is sure to inject some gravitas into the show.

]]> 5573 no Episode 145 - Reviews of We Stand on Guard #1, Will Eisner’s The Spirit #1, Archie #1, and Leisure http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-145.mp3 This week on the podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs take a close look at a few #1 issues and one minicomic series. However, before they get into the nitty gritty of their reviews, they share some of the listener mail and attention they've been receiving -- including a very cool call-out from the Kyle and Drew at Comics for Fun and Profit -- and then go into some news out of SDCC. In particular, they discuss this year's Eisner Award winners, most of which the guys are familiar with and/or had expected (or hoped) to win. However, there were some surprises as well as some disappointments in this year's Eisners, but such is the game of awards systems such as this. After highlighting a little more news out of San Diego -- e.g., the announcement of new Vertigo titles, the return of Lady Killer, Fantagraphics to publish the next Kramers Ergot -- Andy and Derek plunge into the titles that they're discussing this week. First, they look at Brian K. Vaughan and Steve Skroce's We Stand on Guard #1 (Image Comics). This is one of the most anticipated new series of the year, and the guys waste no time in underscoring not only BKV's storytelling abilities, but Skroce's meticulous art. Next, they look at the latest attempt to bring The Spirit back to reading audiences. With Will Eisner's The Spirit #1 (Dynamite Entertainment), Matt Wagner and Dan Schkade capture not only the spirit -- bad pun intended -- of the original, but also introduce Eisner's crime-fighting world in such a way that brand new readers can easily get on board, even without much knowledge of the original. The same can be said of Mark Waid and Fiona Staples's Archie #1 (Archie Comics). The creators' take on the comics icon appears both fresh and reverential, making this new series accessible, yet in a familiar way. Still, the guys wonder who exactly the audience might be -- or might end up being -- for these new spins on Archie Andrews and Denny Colt. Finally, Derek and Andy turn to a minicomic series from Tim Comrie, Leisure. This is an autobiographical, very personal, series with three issues so far. Comrie lays bare both his pleasures and his turmoils, and in a genuine manner that never comes across as calculated or discomforting. The guys also bring in a discussion of Comrie's other series (along with Mike Heneghan), Five Hour Comics, and compare its style and tone to Leisure. If you're not familiar with Tim Comrie's work, then now is the time to check it out! Wed, 22 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Electric Boogaloo This week on the podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs take a close look at a few #1 issues and one minicomic series. However, before they get into the nitty gritty of their reviews, they share some of the listener mail and attention they've been receiving -- including a very cool call-out from the Kyle and Drew at Comics for Fun and Profit -- and then go into some news out of SDCC. In particular, they discuss this year's Eisner Award winners, most of which the guys are familiar with and/or had expected (or hoped) to win. However, there were some surprises as well as some disappointments in this year's Eisners, but such is the game of awards systems such as this. After highlighting a little more news out of San Diego -- e.g., the announcement of new Vertigo titles, the return of Lady Killer, Fantagraphics to publish the next Kramers Ergot -- Andy and Derek plunge into the titles that they're discussing this week. First, they look at Brian K. Vaughan and Steve Skroce's We Stand on Guard #1 (Image Comics). This is one of the most anticipated new series of the year, and the guys waste no time in underscoring not only BKV's storytelling abilities, but Skroce's meticulous art. Next, they look at the latest attempt to bring The Spirit back to reading audiences. With Will Eisner's The Spirit #1 (Dynamite Entertainment), Matt Wagner and Dan Schkade capture not only the spirit -- bad pun intended -- of the original, but also introduce Eisner's crime-fighting world in such a way that brand new readers can easily get on board, even without much knowledge of the original. The same can be said of Mark Waid and Fiona Staples's Archie #1 (Archie Comics). The creators' take on the comics icon appears both fresh and reverential, making this new series accessible, yet in a familiar way. Still, the guys wonder who exactly the audience might be -- or might end up being -- for these new spins on Archie Andrews and Denny Colt. Finally, Derek and Andy turn to a minicomic series from Tim Comrie, Leisure. This is an autobiographical, very personal, series with three issues so far. Comrie lays bare both his pleasures and his turmoils, and in a genuine manner that never comes across as calculated or discomforting. The guys also bring in a discussion of Comrie's other series (along with Mike Heneghan), Five Hour Comics, and compare its style and tone to Leisure. If you're not familiar with Tim Comrie's work, then now is the time to check it out! This week on the podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs take a close look at a few #1 issues and one minicomic series. However, before they get into the nitty gritty of their reviews, they share some of the listener mail and attention they've been receiving -- including a very cool call-out from the Kyle and Drew at Comics for Fun and Profit -- and then go into some news out of SDCC. In particular, they discuss this year's Eisner Award winners, most of which the guys are familiar with and/or had expected (or hoped) to win. However, there were some surprises as well as some disappointments in this year's Eisners, but such is the game of awards systems such as this. After highlighting a little more news out of San Diego -- e.g., the announcement of new Vertigo titles, the return of Lady Killer, Fantagraphics to publish the next Kramers Ergot -- Andy and Derek plunge into the titles that they're discussing this week. First, they look at Brian K. Vaughan and Steve Skroce's We Stand on Guard #1 (Image Comics). This is one of the most anticipated new series of the year, and the guys waste no time in underscoring not only BKV's storytelling abilities, but Skroce's meticulous art. Next, they look at the latest attempt to bring The Spirit back to reading audiences. With Will Eisner's The Spirit #1 (Dynamite Entertainment), Matt Wagner and Dan Schkade capture not only the spirit -- bad pun intended -- of the original, but also introduce Eisner's crime-fighting world in such a way that brand new readers can easily get on board, even without much knowledge of the original. The same can be said of Mark Waid and Fiona Staples's Archie #1 (Archie Comics). The creators' take on the comics icon appears both fresh and reverential, making this new series accessible, yet in a familiar way. Still, the guys wonder who exactly the audience might be -- or might end up being -- for these new spins on Archie Andrews and Denny Colt. Finally, Derek and Andy turn to a minicomic series from Tim Comrie, Leisure. This is an autobiographical, very personal, series with three issues so far. Comrie lays bare both his pleasures and his turmoils, and in a genuine manner that never comes across as calculated or discomforting. The guys also bring in a discussion of Comrie's other series (along with Mike Heneghan), Five Hour Comics, and compare its style and tone to Leisure. If you're not familiar with Tim Comrie's work, then now is the time to check it out!

]]> 7454 no On Location - Talking about SDCC and Summer Reading at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation21.mp3 Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for the monthly Comics Alternative on-location recording. This time he talks with folks about summer reading and the recent San Diego Comic-Con. Two of the customers there, Krystle and Craig, just got back from San Diego and share their experiences and the fun they had. They do a great job of describing the excitement, and the chaos, to be had at SDCC, complete with cosplaying, fireworks, brushes with greatness, and near-jail-cell adventures. Another participant on this episode, Mike, wasn't able to get to the con, so both he and Derek had to experience the events vicariously. But everyone at the table was able to share their reading lists for the summer. Both Craig and Mike -- and even an absent guest, Matthew, who shared his list before the recording -- will be reading new Secret Wars, Spider-man, and Inhumans titles in the coming weeks, but there are also a number of long and novel-like narratives that are on the table, as well, including Saga, Fables, Chew, and Invincible. As always, the conversation can be unpredictable during on-location recordings at the shop, going into strange and unexpected areas, G-rated, explicit, and otherwise. Fri, 17 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Balls Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for the monthly Comics Alternative on-location recording. This time he talks with folks about summer reading and the recent San Diego Comic-Con. Two of the customers there, Krystle and Craig, just got back from San Diego and share their experiences and the fun they had. They do a great job of describing the excitement, and the chaos, to be had at SDCC, complete with cosplaying, fireworks, brushes with greatness, and near-jail-cell adventures. Another participant on this episode, Mike, wasn't able to get to the con, so both he and Derek had to experience the events vicariously. But everyone at the table was able to share their reading lists for the summer. Both Craig and Mike -- and even an absent guest, Matthew, who shared his list before the recording -- will be reading new Secret Wars, Spider-man, and Inhumans titles in the coming weeks, but there are also a number of long and novel-like narratives that are on the table, as well, including Saga, Fables, Chew, and Invincible. As always, the conversation can be unpredictable during on-location recordings at the shop, going into strange and unexpected areas, G-rated, explicit, and otherwise. Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for the monthly Comics Alternative on-location recording. This time he talks with folks about summer reading and the recent San Diego Comic-Con. Two of the customers there, Krystle and Craig, just got back from San Diego and share their experiences and the fun they had. They do a great job of describing the excitement, and the chaos, to be had at SDCC, complete with cosplaying, fireworks, brushes with greatness, and near-jail-cell adventures. Another participant on this episode, Mike, wasn't able to get to the con, so both he and Derek had to experience the events vicariously. But everyone at the table was able to share their reading lists for the summer. Both Craig and Mike -- and even an absent guest, Matthew, who shared his list before the recording -- will be reading new Secret Wars, Spider-man, and Inhumans titles in the coming weeks, but there are also a number of long and novel-like narratives that are on the table, as well, including Saga, Fables, Chew, and Invincible. As always, the conversation can be unpredictable during on-location recordings at the shop, going into strange and unexpected areas, G-rated, explicit, and otherwise.

]]> 5062 yes Episode 144 - Reviews of Black River, 8House:Arclight #1, and Kilgore Quarterly #6 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-144.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene is back in the cohosting chair after a long absence. (He was last on the show for the interview with Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain, but he hasn't been on a review show since October of last year.) This week, the Two Guys look at three new, yet very different, comics. They begin with Josh Simmons's Black River (Fantagraphics), a beautiful yet disturbing post-apocalyptic narrative. It follows a group of women trying to survive after some sort of catastrophic event -- we're never sure what -- the deadly travails that await them, and how the experience changes the group. Although the subject matter is violent and unsettling, Simmons's artwork is visually compelling. Next, the guys check out the first issue of 8House: Arclight, Brandon Graham and Marian Churchland's new series from Image Comics. Issue #1 reveals a detailed and fantastical world, complete with its own physics, as well as its own alphabet. Graham provides just enough story to satisfy, while at the same time teasing the narrative to come. But it's Churchland's art that captures Gene and Derek's attention, working seamlessly into the complex world-building apparent in this nascent series. Finally, Gene and Derek spend a lot of time discussing a small-press anthology series, Kilgore Quarterly (Kilgore Books and Comics). This is the 6th issue in the title, and as with the previous issues, this one contains a nice balance of known names, first-time-published cartoonists, and creators whose work you may not know, but you definitely should. Both Noah Van Sciver and Eleanor Davis have contributions in this issue, as do lesser-known artists such as Rich Sparks, Susan Choi, Matias San Juan, Sarah Leitten, and Amara Leipzig. But a full appreciation of Kilgore Quarterly #6 wouldn't be possible without delving into the work of all of its contributors -- and Derek and Gene do just that -- including Meg Golding, Alex Graham, Joe Leonard, Alex Nall, and Ryan the Truck. Of the three titles discussed on this week's show, Kilgore Quarterly is the one the guys spend the most time discussing...and for a reason. Wed, 15 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Ca-ching Us! On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene is back in the cohosting chair after a long absence. (He was last on the show for the interview with Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain, but he hasn't been on a review show since October of last year.) This week, the Two Guys look at three new, yet very different, comics. They begin with Josh Simmons's Black River (Fantagraphics), a beautiful yet disturbing post-apocalyptic narrative. It follows a group of women trying to survive after some sort of catastrophic event -- we're never sure what -- the deadly travails that await them, and how the experience changes the group. Although the subject matter is violent and unsettling, Simmons's artwork is visually compelling. Next, the guys check out the first issue of 8House: Arclight, Brandon Graham and Marian Churchland's new series from Image Comics. Issue #1 reveals a detailed and fantastical world, complete with its own physics, as well as its own alphabet. Graham provides just enough story to satisfy, while at the same time teasing the narrative to come. But it's Churchland's art that captures Gene and Derek's attention, working seamlessly into the complex world-building apparent in this nascent series. Finally, Gene and Derek spend a lot of time discussing a small-press anthology series, Kilgore Quarterly (Kilgore Books and Comics). This is the 6th issue in the title, and as with the previous issues, this one contains a nice balance of known names, first-time-published cartoonists, and creators whose work you may not know, but you definitely should. Both Noah Van Sciver and Eleanor Davis have contributions in this issue, as do lesser-known artists such as Rich Sparks, Susan Choi, Matias San Juan, Sarah Leitten, and Amara Leipzig. But a full appreciation of Kilgore Quarterly #6 wouldn't be possible without delving into the work of all of its contributors -- and Derek and Gene do just that -- including Meg Golding, Alex Graham, Joe Leonard, Alex Nall, and Ryan the Truck. Of the three titles discussed on this week's show, Kilgore Quarterly is the one the guys spend the most time discussing...and for a reason. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene is back in the cohosting chair after a long absence. (He was last on the show for the interview with Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain, but he hasn't been on a review show since October of last year.) This week, the Two Guys look at three new, yet very different, comics. They begin with Josh Simmons's Black River (Fantagraphics), a beautiful yet disturbing post-apocalyptic narrative. It follows a group of women trying to survive after some sort of catastrophic event -- we're never sure what -- the deadly travails that await them, and how the experience changes the group. Although the subject matter is violent and unsettling, Simmons's artwork is visually compelling. Next, the guys check out the first issue of 8House: Arclight, Brandon Graham and Marian Churchland's new series from Image Comics. Issue #1 reveals a detailed and fantastical world, complete with its own physics, as well as its own alphabet. Graham provides just enough story to satisfy, while at the same time teasing the narrative to come. But it's Churchland's art that captures Gene and Derek's attention, working seamlessly into the complex world-building apparent in this nascent series. Finally, Gene and Derek spend a lot of time discussing a small-press anthology series, Kilgore Quarterly (Kilgore Books and Comics). This is the 6th issue in the title, and as with the previous issues, this one contains a nice balance of known names, first-time-published cartoonists, and creators whose work you may not know, but you definitely should. Both Noah Van Sciver and Eleanor Davis have contributions in this issue, as do lesser-known artists such as Rich Sparks, Susan Choi, Matias San Juan, Sarah Leitten, and Amara Leipzig. But a full appreciation of Kilgore Quarterly #6 wouldn't be possible without delving into the work of all of its contributors -- and Derek and Gene do just that -- including Meg Golding, Alex Graham, Joe Leonard, Alex Nall, and Ryan the Truck. Of the three titles discussed on this week's show, Kilgore Quarterly is the one the guys spend the most time discussing...and for a reason.

]]> 5270 no Interviews - I. N. J. Culbard http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews52-Culbard.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back with another fun conversation, this time with artist I. N. J. Culbard. They talk with him about his latest book, The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero), a graphic adaptation of Robert W. Chambers’s macabre collection of stories originally published in 1895. To be more specific, Culbard actually takes the first four stories from Chambers’s original work, the ones that reference the notorious fictional play referenced in the title — “The Repairer of Reputations,” “The Mask,” “In the Court of the Dragon,” and “The Yellow Sign” — and adapts those. As Ian reveals, he attempts to stay true to the spirit of the original, while at the same time making creative changes that will more fully bring out the stories’ tone and present them in more of a thematic whole. In fact, Derek suggests that Ian has actually made The King in Yellow better by giving it more structural cohesion, using the four stories in such a way that the book becomes short-story cycle, or more appropriate to the medium, a graphic cycle. The guys spend a lot of time discussing the new book, the artist’s storytelling choices, and especially Culbard’s larger philosophy on adaptation and comics. However, they also explore a variety of Ian’s earlier works, including his ongoing adaptations of H. P. Lovecraft narratives (of which we can expect more in the near future), his many collaborations with both Ian Edgington and Dan Abnett, and his solo work from last year, Celeste. If you aren’t previously familiar with the work of I. N. J. Culbard, then this is your chance to get introduced to one of the best adapters, and best artists, working in comics today. Mon, 13 Jul 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "The benefit of hindsight" The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back with another fun conversation, this time with artist I. N. J. Culbard. They talk with him about his latest book, The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero), a graphic adaptation of Robert W. Chambers’s macabre collection of stories originally published in 1895. To be more specific, Culbard actually takes the first four stories from Chambers’s original work, the ones that reference the notorious fictional play referenced in the title — “The Repairer of Reputations,” “The Mask,” “In the Court of the Dragon,” and “The Yellow Sign” — and adapts those. As Ian reveals, he attempts to stay true to the spirit of the original, while at the same time making creative changes that will more fully bring out the stories’ tone and present them in more of a thematic whole. In fact, Derek suggests that Ian has actually made The King in Yellow better by giving it more structural cohesion, using the four stories in such a way that the book becomes short-story cycle, or more appropriate to the medium, a graphic cycle. The guys spend a lot of time discussing the new book, the artist’s storytelling choices, and especially Culbard’s larger philosophy on adaptation and comics. However, they also explore a variety of Ian’s earlier works, including his ongoing adaptations of H. P. Lovecraft narratives (of which we can expect more in the near future), his many collaborations with both Ian Edgington and Dan Abnett, and his solo work from last year, Celeste. If you aren’t previously familiar with the work of I. N. J. Culbard, then this is your chance to get introduced to one of the best adapters, and best artists, working in comics today. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back with another fun conversation, this time with artist I. N. J. Culbard. They talk with him about his latest book, The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero), a graphic adaptation of Robert W. Chambers’s macabre collection of stories originally published in 1895. To be more specific, Culbard actually takes the first four stories from Chambers’s original work, the ones that reference the notorious fictional play referenced in the title — “The Repairer of Reputations,” “The Mask,” “In the Court of the Dragon,” and “The Yellow Sign” — and adapts those. As Ian reveals, he attempts to stay true to the spirit of the original, while at the same time making creative changes that will more fully bring out the stories’ tone and present them in more of a thematic whole. In fact, Derek suggests that Ian has actually made The King in Yellow better by giving it more structural cohesion, using the four stories in such a way that the book becomes short-story cycle, or more appropriate to the medium, a graphic cycle. The guys spend a lot of time discussing the new book, the artist’s storytelling choices, and especially Culbard’s larger philosophy on adaptation and comics. However, they also explore a variety of Ian’s earlier works, including his ongoing adaptations of H. P. Lovecraft narratives (of which we can expect more in the near future), his many collaborations with both Ian Edgington and Dan Abnett, and his solo work from last year, Celeste. If you aren’t previously familiar with the work of I. N. J. Culbard, then this is your chance to get introduced to one of the best adapters, and best artists, working in comics today.

]]> 4592 no Episode 143 - A Publisher Spotlight on Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-143.mp3 The Two Guys are back for yet another publisher spotlight, and this time they are looking at the 2015 releases from Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics. The episode begins with a brief interview with Box  Brown, the founder and editor of Retrofit Comics. He discusses the origins of Retrofit as a Kickstarter campaign, his education as a publisher, the ensuing partnership with Big Planet Comics, and the philosophy behind and publishing trajectory of their efforts. After that, the guys discuss the 2015 releases (so far) from Retrofit / Big Planet, beginning with Kate Leth's Ink for Beginners: A Comic Guide to Getting Tattooed. Andy points out that Leth's work is one of a growing number of informational or expository comics to be found out there, and that tattoo parlors around the country would do well to stock this small book. Next, the guys turn to Box Brown's An Entity Observes All Things, a collection of nine short stories, all with a sci-fi or futuristic themes of some sort. Some of their favorites include "Mundo Jelly," "Voyage of the Golden Retriever," "Memorexia," and the title story. Then they look at perhaps the most experimental, and the smallest, book of the lot, Niv Bavarsky's Piggy, a disparate series of stories and drawings in mini-comic form. The unconventional nature of Piggy is then contrasted to the more genre-based comics of the week, Laura Knetzger's Sea Urchin and Jack Teagle's The Unmentionables. The former is an autobiographical account of the author's inabilities concentrate and relate to others -- represented effectively by a sea urchin inside her brain -- as well as a speculation on her place in the world. The Unmentionables is a fun, action-packed story of a group of pro wrestlers who become crimefighters, and its origin-story feel promises more installments to come. Finally, the Two Guys turn to what may be the two most ambitious narratives of the week...or so Derek feels. Olivier Schrauwen's Mowgli's Mirror is a wordless, almost treasury-sized comic about a young man in a jungle -- no overt links to Kipling's stories -- searching for companionship and finding unexpected encounters. As the title suggests, there are parts of the narrative that are symmetrical in nature, but in this aspect the book doesn't hold a candle to the final book discussed in this publisher spotlight, Matt Madden's Drawn Onward. As we have come to expect from Madden -- see, for example, 99 Ways to Tell a Story and A Fine Mess -- this book is an experiment in form, where the second half of the narrative mirrors the first half...or vice versa. Depending on how you read it, it's a story of either connectedness or alienation. Either way, it's a self-reflexive tale where the narrator uses her art to make sense, and perhaps even transform the meaning, of experiences that unsettle her. In wrapping up the episode, Andy and Derek also talk briefly about some of the other books that Retrofit / Big Planet have been putting out over the last couple of years. (Box Brown and Jared Smith, the head honchos of the two respective presses, sent the guys a large package containing their back catalog.) Among the earlier titles they mention are James Kochalka's Fungus: The Unbearable Rot of Being, Sam Alden's Wicket Chicken Queen, Anne Emond's Debbie's Inferno, Josh Bayer's Theth, and issues #1 and #2 of Box Brown's Numbers. If you didn't know anything about Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics before, then there is no excuse not to be turned on to their stuff after this episode. Go get it! Wed, 08 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fearless Symmetry The Two Guys are back for yet another publisher spotlight, and this time they are looking at the 2015 releases from Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics. The episode begins with a brief interview with Box  Brown, the founder and editor of Retrofit Comics. He discusses the origins of Retrofit as a Kickstarter campaign, his education as a publisher, the ensuing partnership with Big Planet Comics, and the philosophy behind and publishing trajectory of their efforts. After that, the guys discuss the 2015 releases (so far) from Retrofit / Big Planet, beginning with Kate Leth's Ink for Beginners: A Comic Guide to Getting Tattooed. Andy points out that Leth's work is one of a growing number of informational or expository comics to be found out there, and that tattoo parlors around the country would do well to stock this small book. Next, the guys turn to Box Brown's An Entity Observes All Things, a collection of nine short stories, all with a sci-fi or futuristic themes of some sort. Some of their favorites include "Mundo Jelly," "Voyage of the Golden Retriever," "Memorexia," and the title story. Then they look at perhaps the most experimental, and the smallest, book of the lot, Niv Bavarsky's Piggy, a disparate series of stories and drawings in mini-comic form. The unconventional nature of Piggy is then contrasted to the more genre-based comics of the week, Laura Knetzger's Sea Urchin and Jack Teagle's The Unmentionables. The former is an autobiographical account of the author's inabilities concentrate and relate to others -- represented effectively by a sea urchin inside her brain -- as well as a speculation on her place in the world. The Unmentionables is a fun, action-packed story of a group of pro wrestlers who become crimefighters, and its origin-story feel promises more installments to come. Finally, the Two Guys turn to what may be the two most ambitious narratives of the week...or so Derek feels. Olivier Schrauwen's Mowgli's Mirror is a wordless, almost treasury-sized comic about a young man in a jungle -- no overt links to Kipling's stories -- searching for companionship and finding unexpected encounters. As the title suggests, there are parts of the narrative that are symmetrical in nature, but in this aspect the book doesn't hold a candle to the final book discussed in this publisher spotlight, Matt Madden's Drawn Onward. As we have come to expect from Madden -- see, for example, 99 Ways to Tell a Story and A Fine Mess -- this book is an experiment in form, where the second half of the narrative mirrors the first half...or vice versa. Depending on how you read it, it's a story of either connectedness or alienation. Either way, it's a self-reflexive tale where the narrator uses her art to make sense, and perhaps even transform the meaning, of experiences that unsettle her. In wrapping up the episode, Andy and Derek also talk briefly about some of the other books that Retrofit / Big Planet have been putting out over the last couple of years. (Box Brown and Jared Smith, the head honchos of the two respective presses, sent the guys a large package containing their back catalog.) Among the earlier titles they mention are James Kochalka's Fungus: The Unbearable Rot of Being, Sam Alden's Wicket Chicken Queen, Anne Emond's Debbie's Inferno, Josh Bayer's Theth, and issues #1 and #2 of Box Brown's Numbers. If you didn't know anything about Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics before, then there is no excuse not to be turned on to their stuff after this episode. Go get it! The Two Guys are back for yet another publisher spotlight, and this time they are looking at the 2015 releases from Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics. The episode begins with a brief interview with Box  Brown, the founder and editor of Retrofit Comics. He discusses the origins of Retrofit as a Kickstarter campaign, his education as a publisher, the ensuing partnership with Big Planet Comics, and the philosophy behind and publishing trajectory of their efforts. After that, the guys discuss the 2015 releases (so far) from Retrofit / Big Planet, beginning with Kate Leth's Ink for Beginners: A Comic Guide to Getting Tattooed. Andy points out that Leth's work is one of a growing number of informational or expository comics to be found out there, and that tattoo parlors around the country would do well to stock this small book. Next, the guys turn to Box Brown's An Entity Observes All Things, a collection of nine short stories, all with a sci-fi or futuristic themes of some sort. Some of their favorites include "Mundo Jelly," "Voyage of the Golden Retriever," "Memorexia," and the title story. Then they look at perhaps the most experimental, and the smallest, book of the lot, Niv Bavarsky's Piggy, a disparate series of stories and drawings in mini-comic form. The unconventional nature of Piggy is then contrasted to the more genre-based comics of the week, Laura Knetzger's Sea Urchin and Jack Teagle's The Unmentionables. The former is an autobiographical account of the author's inabilities concentrate and relate to others -- represented effectively by a sea urchin inside her brain -- as well as a speculation on her place in the world. The Unmentionables is a fun, action-packed story of a group of pro wrestlers who become crimefighters, and its origin-story feel promises more installments to come. Finally, the Two Guys turn to what may be the two most ambitious narratives of the week...or so Derek feels. Olivier Schrauwen's Mowgli's Mirror is a wordless, almost treasury-sized comic about a young man in a jungle -- no overt links to Kipling's stories -- searching for companionship and finding unexpected encounters. As the title suggests, there are parts of the narrative that are symmetrical in nature, but in this aspect the book doesn't hold a candle to the final book discussed in this publisher spotlight, Matt Madden's Drawn Onward. As we have come to expect from Madden -- see, for example, 99 Ways to Tell a Story and A Fine Mess -- this book is an experiment in form, where the second half of the narrative mirrors the first half...or vice versa. Depending on how you read it, it's a story of either connectedness or alienation. Either way, it's a self-reflexive tale where the narrator uses her art to make sense, and perhaps even transform the meaning, of experiences that unsettle her. In wrapping up the episode, Andy and Derek also talk briefly about some of the other books that Retrofit / Big Planet have been putting out over the last couple of years. (Box Brown and Jared Smith, the head honchos of the two respective presses, sent the guys a large package containing their back catalog.) Among the earlier titles they mention are James Kochalka's Fungus: The Unbearable Rot of Being, Sam Alden's Wicket Chicken Queen, Anne Emond's Debbie's Inferno, Josh Bayer's Theth, and issues #1 and #2 of Box Brown's Numbers. If you didn't know anything about Retrofit Comics / Big Planet Comics before, then there is no excuse not to be turned on to their stuff after this episode. Go get it!

]]> 7649 no Episode 142 - The July Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-142.mp3 It's the first of the month, so that must mean it's time for another look through the Previews catalog. In this episode, Andy and Derek flip through the July solicits, highlighting the various titles they're looking forward to and feel that are worth mentioning. But before they plunge into their recommendations, they give a few shout-outs. First, they share with listeners the various emails and messages they've received this past week, all kind and complimentary, with some even being from new fans the guys met at HeroesCon the other week. After that they give a big, proud Comics Alternative salute to one of their own: Gene Kannenberg, Jr. Over the past several months Gene has been creating, as he describes it, "one abstract-ish comic a day," and now that work has been released in Comics Machine #1. Derek and Andy briefly discuss this first issue of Comics Machine, congratulate Gene, recommend that everyone check out his work, and then thank him for sending them each a copy! Then, it's onto the nitty gritty of this week's show, a discussion of the July Previews catalog. In the course of this episode, the guys celebrate the recent Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges -- "Scalia and Alito: bite me!" -- Derek explains how he's fed up with the endless marketing shenanigans of the Big Two (especially Marvel), and Andy eats his own words about the length of the Previews podcast episodes while he was away. Yes, this is another long episode of The Comics Alternative, so sit back, listen up, and enjoy the ride as the Two Guys guide you through the wondrous world of comics solicitations! Wed, 01 Jul 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy Learns a Lesson? It's the first of the month, so that must mean it's time for another look through the Previews catalog. In this episode, Andy and Derek flip through the July solicits, highlighting the various titles they're looking forward to and feel that are worth mentioning. But before they plunge into their recommendations, they give a few shout-outs. First, they share with listeners the various emails and messages they've received this past week, all kind and complimentary, with some even being from new fans the guys met at HeroesCon the other week. After that they give a big, proud Comics Alternative salute to one of their own: Gene Kannenberg, Jr. Over the past several months Gene has been creating, as he describes it, "one abstract-ish comic a day," and now that work has been released in Comics Machine #1. Derek and Andy briefly discuss this first issue of Comics Machine, congratulate Gene, recommend that everyone check out his work, and then thank him for sending them each a copy! Then, it's onto the nitty gritty of this week's show, a discussion of the July Previews catalog. In the course of this episode, the guys celebrate the recent Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges -- "Scalia and Alito: bite me!" -- Derek explains how he's fed up with the endless marketing shenanigans of the Big Two (especially Marvel), and Andy eats his own words about the length of the Previews podcast episodes while he was away. Yes, this is another long episode of The Comics Alternative, so sit back, listen up, and enjoy the ride as the Two Guys guide you through the wondrous world of comics solicitations! It's the first of the month, so that must mean it's time for another look through the Previews catalog. In this episode, Andy and Derek flip through the July solicits, highlighting the various titles they're looking forward to and feel that are worth mentioning. But before they plunge into their recommendations, they give a few shout-outs. First, they share with listeners the various emails and messages they've received this past week, all kind and complimentary, with some even being from new fans the guys met at HeroesCon the other week. After that they give a big, proud Comics Alternative salute to one of their own: Gene Kannenberg, Jr. Over the past several months Gene has been creating, as he describes it, "one abstract-ish comic a day," and now that work has been released in Comics Machine #1. Derek and Andy briefly discuss this first issue of Comics Machine, congratulate Gene, recommend that everyone check out his work, and then thank him for sending them each a copy! Then, it's onto the nitty gritty of this week's show, a discussion of the July Previews catalog. In the course of this episode, the guys celebrate the recent Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges -- "Scalia and Alito: bite me!" -- Derek explains how he's fed up with the endless marketing shenanigans of the Big Two (especially Marvel), and Andy eats his own words about the length of the Previews podcast episodes while he was away. Yes, this is another long episode of The Comics Alternative, so sit back, listen up, and enjoy the ride as the Two Guys guide you through the wondrous world of comics solicitations!

]]> 7640 no Manga - Reviews of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and Trash Market http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Manga3.mp3 This month on their manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different works. They begin with Hirohito Araki's JoJo Bizarre Adventure, which is now being reissued in new editions from VIZ Media. The title has been published in smaller paperback form for quite a while, but this year VIZ began collecting Araki's world-famous -- and still ongoing -- series in larger hardcover editions, beginning with the first two volumes in the series' first narrative arc, Phantom Blood. (The third volume will be released this August.) Shea points out that one the distinguishing features of these new collections is Araki's more contemporary artwork that can be found on the cover of the volumes. This is markedly different, he mentions, from Araki's original style from the mid- to late 1980s, when the series first came out in Japan. In fact, the guys discuss how JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is very much influenced by -- or at least participated in -- the kind of over-the-top, extreme action narrative that defined that decade. As such, you can see these early JoJo stories as a cross between Sylvester Stallone, the Die Hard movies, and Rob Liefeld's art. What happens in the first two volumes is definitely melodramatic and strange. As Derek suggests, if elements of the story just don't make sense, if you feel that Araki is just getting a little too weird, just accept that and enjoy the ride. What else can you say about a series involving a Jane Austin-style setting, a sensei training premise, breathing techniques that can make your arm extend, and an Incan mask that creates vampiric zombies? Next, Derek and Shea look at a new release from Drawn and Quarterly, Tadao Tsuge's Trash Market. This may be the first English translation of Tsuge's work -- the guys are unsure about this -- and this book collects six stories that Tsuge had originally published in Garo and Yagyō between 1968 and 1972. One of Shea's favorites is "A Tale of Absolute and Utter Nonsense," perhaps the most political (intentionally or otherwise) piece in the collection, and one that he feels highlights Tsuge's defining art style. Derek is partial to "Song of Showa," a semi-autobiographical, unromantic tale of Tsuge's working-class roots, and especially the titular story, perhaps the collection's most sophisticated and complex when it comes to character development. But all of the stories here are outstanding: "Manhunt," about journalists investigating the phenomenon of "vanishing men," "Gently Goes the Night," about a psychologically atrophied father and husband still struggling with his experiences during the Second World War, and "Up on the Hilltop, Vincent Van Gogh...," another semi-autobiographical piece revisiting Tsuge's early years as an artist. Tsuge's grim, stark realism contrasts sharply with Araki's decompressed soap opera approach, but that's what makes these manga episodes so much fun, a study in differences. Tue, 30 Jun 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”Embrace the weird” This month on their manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different works. They begin with Hirohito Araki's JoJo Bizarre Adventure, which is now being reissued in new editions from VIZ Media. The title has been published in smaller paperback form for quite a while, but this year VIZ began collecting Araki's world-famous -- and still ongoing -- series in larger hardcover editions, beginning with the first two volumes in the series' first narrative arc, Phantom Blood. (The third volume will be released this August.) Shea points out that one the distinguishing features of these new collections is Araki's more contemporary artwork that can be found on the cover of the volumes. This is markedly different, he mentions, from Araki's original style from the mid- to late 1980s, when the series first came out in Japan. In fact, the guys discuss how JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is very much influenced by -- or at least participated in -- the kind of over-the-top, extreme action narrative that defined that decade. As such, you can see these early JoJo stories as a cross between Sylvester Stallone, the Die Hard movies, and Rob Liefeld's art. What happens in the first two volumes is definitely melodramatic and strange. As Derek suggests, if elements of the story just don't make sense, if you feel that Araki is just getting a little too weird, just accept that and enjoy the ride. What else can you say about a series involving a Jane Austin-style setting, a sensei training premise, breathing techniques that can make your arm extend, and an Incan mask that creates vampiric zombies? Next, Derek and Shea look at a new release from Drawn and Quarterly, Tadao Tsuge's Trash Market. This may be the first English translation of Tsuge's work -- the guys are unsure about this -- and this book collects six stories that Tsuge had originally published in Garo and Yagyō between 1968 and 1972. One of Shea's favorites is "A Tale of Absolute and Utter Nonsense," perhaps the most political (intentionally or otherwise) piece in the collection, and one that he feels highlights Tsuge's defining art style. Derek is partial to "Song of Showa," a semi-autobiographical, unromantic tale of Tsuge's working-class roots, and especially the titular story, perhaps the collection's most sophisticated and complex when it comes to character development. But all of the stories here are outstanding: "Manhunt," about journalists investigating the phenomenon of "vanishing men," "Gently Goes the Night," about a psychologically atrophied father and husband still struggling with his experiences during the Second World War, and "Up on the Hilltop, Vincent Van Gogh...," another semi-autobiographical piece revisiting Tsuge's early years as an artist. Tsuge's grim, stark realism contrasts sharply with Araki's decompressed soap opera approach, but that's what makes these manga episodes so much fun, a study in differences. This month on their manga episode, Shea and Derek discuss two very different works. They begin with Hirohito Araki's JoJo Bizarre Adventure, which is now being reissued in new editions from VIZ Media. The title has been published in smaller paperback form for quite a while, but this year VIZ began collecting Araki's world-famous -- and still ongoing -- series in larger hardcover editions, beginning with the first two volumes in the series' first narrative arc, Phantom Blood. (The third volume will be released this August.) Shea points out that one the distinguishing features of these new collections is Araki's more contemporary artwork that can be found on the cover of the volumes. This is markedly different, he mentions, from Araki's original style from the mid- to late 1980s, when the series first came out in Japan. In fact, the guys discuss how JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is very much influenced by -- or at least participated in -- the kind of over-the-top, extreme action narrative that defined that decade. As such, you can see these early JoJo stories as a cross between Sylvester Stallone, the Die Hard movies, and Rob Liefeld's art. What happens in the first two volumes is definitely melodramatic and strange. As Derek suggests, if elements of the story just don't make sense, if you feel that Araki is just getting a little too weird, just accept that and enjoy the ride. What else can you say about a series involving a Jane Austin-style setting, a sensei training premise, breathing techniques that can make your arm extend, and an Incan mask that creates vampiric zombies? Next, Derek and Shea look at a new release from Drawn and Quarterly, Tadao Tsuge's Trash Market. This may be the first English translation of Tsuge's work -- the guys are unsure about this -- and this book collects six stories that Tsuge had originally published in Garo and Yagyō between 1968 and 1972. One of Shea's favorites is "A Tale of Absolute and Utter Nonsense," perhaps the most political (intentionally or otherwise) piece in the collection, and one that he feels highlights Tsuge's defining art style. Derek is partial to "Song of Showa," a semi-autobiographical, unromantic tale of Tsuge's working-class roots, and especially the titular story, perhaps the collection's most sophisticated and complex when it comes to character development. But all of the stories here are outstanding: "Manhunt," about journalists investigating the phenomenon of "vanishing men," "Gently Goes the Night," about a psychologically atrophied father and husband still struggling with his experiences during the Second World War, and "Up on the Hilltop, Vincent Van Gogh...," another semi-autobiographical piece revisiting Tsuge's early years as an artist. Tsuge's grim, stark realism contrasts sharply with Araki's decompressed soap opera approach, but that's what makes these manga episodes so much fun, a study in differences.

]]> 5496 no On Location - Teaching Comics through a Historical Context Panel at HeroesCon 2015 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation20.mp3 On Friday of last week, the first day of HeroesCon, both Andy and Derek participated on a discussion panel, "Teaching Comics through a Historical Context." This was organized by Shawn and Adam Daughhetee of the Dollar Bin podcast -- who have been putting together these kind of panels at the con for several years -- and the focus of the discussion was on understanding comics within their temporal/cultural contexts and using them in the classroom as a way to teach history. Participating on the panel along with the Two Guys were Will Allred from the University of Arkansas, Tom Heintjes of Hogan's Alley, and Brian Puaca who teaches history at Christopher Newport University. Shawn Daughhetee moderated the proceedings. There was a sizable audience at the event, and the conversation was so congenial and productive that the moderator let the discussion extend beyond the panel's allotted time. This panel recording originally appeared on the Dollar Bin podcast. A big THANK YOU goes to Adam and Shawn Daughhetee and the rest of the Dollar Bin crew for making this recording at the con and for allowing The Comics Alternative to share it with its listeners. Mon, 29 Jun 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Historic Talk On Friday of last week, the first day of HeroesCon, both Andy and Derek participated on a discussion panel, "Teaching Comics through a Historical Context." This was organized by Shawn and Adam Daughhetee of the Dollar Bin podcast -- who have been putting together these kind of panels at the con for several years -- and the focus of the discussion was on understanding comics within their temporal/cultural contexts and using them in the classroom as a way to teach history. Participating on the panel along with the Two Guys were Will Allred from the University of Arkansas, Tom Heintjes of Hogan's Alley, and Brian Puaca who teaches history at Christopher Newport University. Shawn Daughhetee moderated the proceedings. There was a sizable audience at the event, and the conversation was so congenial and productive that the moderator let the discussion extend beyond the panel's allotted time. This panel recording originally appeared on the Dollar Bin podcast. A big THANK YOU goes to Adam and Shawn Daughhetee and the rest of the Dollar Bin crew for making this recording at the con and for allowing The Comics Alternative to share it with its listeners. On Friday of last week, the first day of HeroesCon, both Andy and Derek participated on a discussion panel, "Teaching Comics through a Historical Context." This was organized by Shawn and Adam Daughhetee of the Dollar Bin podcast -- who have been putting together these kind of panels at the con for several years -- and the focus of the discussion was on understanding comics within their temporal/cultural contexts and using them in the classroom as a way to teach history. Participating on the panel along with the Two Guys were Will Allred from the University of Arkansas, Tom Heintjes of Hogan's Alley, and Brian Puaca who teaches history at Christopher Newport University. Shawn Daughhetee moderated the proceedings. There was a sizable audience at the event, and the conversation was so congenial and productive that the moderator let the discussion extend beyond the panel's allotted time. This panel recording originally appeared on the Dollar Bin podcast. A big THANK YOU goes to Adam and Shawn Daughhetee and the rest of the Dollar Bin crew for making this recording at the con and for allowing The Comics Alternative to share it with its listeners.

]]> 5146 no On Location - Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2015, Part 2 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation19.mp3 In the second of two on-location interview episodes recorded at last weekend's HeroesCon -- the first episode went up yesterday -- Derek talks with a variety of artists tabling in Artists Alley. He begins with a conversation with Nate Simpson, discussing the recent release of Nonplayer #2, the long gap between the first and second issues, and Nate's plans for carrying the title forward. Next, Derek talks with Ed Piskor about the upcoming release of Hip Hop Family Tree, Book 3, Fantagraphics' landmark decision to release his title as a monthly series, and Ed's gold watch. After that, he discusses the webcomic Vattu with Evan Dahm, along with the artist's plans for eventually releasing the entire saga in hardcopy. Then Derek heads to the shared table of Gabriel Dunston and Aaron Walther -- which is almost next to The Comics Alternative's table! He talks with Gabe about Kickstarter and his work on the second Purgatory Pub book, and then he learns about Aaron's series, Zero's Heroes and Science Hero. Then, in one of the highlights of the con, Derek makes Ryan Browne laugh before learning the sad news that God Hates Astronauts will soon be going on hiatus. Following Ryan's talk, Jamal Igle discusses the new Molly Danger series as well as his work at Action Lab Studios, and then Frank Barbiere shares some word about the secrets to his prolific output...Five Ghosts, White Suits, Black Market, and Solar: Man of Action, anyone? Then, in the last hours of this year's HeroesCon, Derek is able to talk with Kyle Starks about his experiences after Sexcastle, with Jeremy Whitley about Princeless and ethnoracial issues in comics, and with Matthew Roberts about art and the success of Manifest Destiny. Fri, 26 Jun 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Talk from the Floor In the second of two on-location interview episodes recorded at last weekend's HeroesCon -- the first episode went up yesterday -- Derek talks with a variety of artists tabling in Artists Alley. He begins with a conversation with Nate Simpson, discussing the recent release of Nonplayer #2, the long gap between the first and second issues, and Nate's plans for carrying the title forward. Next, Derek talks with Ed Piskor about the upcoming release of Hip Hop Family Tree, Book 3, Fantagraphics' landmark decision to release his title as a monthly series, and Ed's gold watch. After that, he discusses the webcomic Vattu with Evan Dahm, along with the artist's plans for eventually releasing the entire saga in hardcopy. Then Derek heads to the shared table of Gabriel Dunston and Aaron Walther -- which is almost next to The Comics Alternative's table! He talks with Gabe about Kickstarter and his work on the second Purgatory Pub book, and then he learns about Aaron's series, Zero's Heroes and Science Hero. Then, in one of the highlights of the con, Derek makes Ryan Browne laugh before learning the sad news that God Hates Astronauts will soon be going on hiatus. Following Ryan's talk, Jamal Igle discusses the new Molly Danger series as well as his work at Action Lab Studios, and then Frank Barbiere shares some word about the secrets to his prolific output...Five Ghosts, White Suits, Black Market, and Solar: Man of Action, anyone? Then, in the last hours of this year's HeroesCon, Derek is able to talk with Kyle Starks about his experiences after Sexcastle, with Jeremy Whitley about Princeless and ethnoracial issues in comics, and with Matthew Roberts about art and the success of Manifest Destiny. In the second of two on-location interview episodes recorded at last weekend's HeroesCon -- the first episode went up yesterday -- Derek talks with a variety of artists tabling in Artists Alley. He begins with a conversation with Nate Simpson, discussing the recent release of Nonplayer #2, the long gap between the first and second issues, and Nate's plans for carrying the title forward. Next, Derek talks with Ed Piskor about the upcoming release of Hip Hop Family Tree, Book 3, Fantagraphics' landmark decision to release his title as a monthly series, and Ed's gold watch. After that, he discusses the webcomic Vattu with Evan Dahm, along with the artist's plans for eventually releasing the entire saga in hardcopy. Then Derek heads to the shared table of Gabriel Dunston and Aaron Walther -- which is almost next to The Comics Alternative's table! He talks with Gabe about Kickstarter and his work on the second Purgatory Pub book, and then he learns about Aaron's series, Zero's Heroes and Science Hero. Then, in one of the highlights of the con, Derek makes Ryan Browne laugh before learning the sad news that God Hates Astronauts will soon be going on hiatus. Following Ryan's talk, Jamal Igle discusses the new Molly Danger series as well as his work at Action Lab Studios, and then Frank Barbiere shares some word about the secrets to his prolific output...Five Ghosts, White Suits, Black Market, and Solar: Man of Action, anyone? Then, in the last hours of this year's HeroesCon, Derek is able to talk with Kyle Starks about his experiences after Sexcastle, with Jeremy Whitley about Princeless and ethnoracial issues in comics, and with Matthew Roberts about art and the success of Manifest Destiny.

]]> 5864 no On Location - Talking with Creators at HeroesCon 2015, Part 1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation18.mp3 While Derek and Andy W. were at HeroesCon last weekend, they were able to meet a variety of artists and writers tabling in Artists Alley. Many of these creators took time from their busy schedules -- talking with fans, signing books, and working on commissions -- to talk with the guys for a few minutes, discussing their works and sharing their experiences at the con. This episode of the podcast includes brief conversations with ten different artists and that, taken together, demonstrate the creative diversity to be found at this year's HeroesCon. First, Derek talks with Sophie Goldstein and Jenn Jordan about their webcomic-turned-book, Darwin Carmichael is Going to Hell, as well as Sophie's Ignatz Award-winning House of Women and the recently published The Oven. After that, Andy has a conversation with Michel Fiffe about his ongoing Copra series and his recent work on various Marvel titles. This is followed by another f**k-filled conversation with Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller (who were just on the podcast last month) about the reception to the latest issue of The Humans, and then a more toned-down discourse with friend-of-the-podcast Craig Yoe on his experiences at HeroesCon, Weird Love, his enjoyment of cosplayers, and an awards message that he delivers for Steve Ditko. Next, Andy talks with Royden Lepp about his high-octane adventure series, Rust, and his process of writing for young readers. This is followed by conversations with Justin Jordan about Spread, Dead Body Road, and the return of Luther Strode, and with Hoyt Silva on the reaction to his and Josh Blaylock's Operation Nemesis: A Story of Genocide and Revenge. Finally, Derek wraps up this this on-location interview segment by talking with Max Dowdle about his fine art background and his graphic novel Shattered with Curve of Horn. Thu, 25 Jun 2015 11:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Making the Creative Rounds While Derek and Andy W. were at HeroesCon last weekend, they were able to meet a variety of artists and writers tabling in Artists Alley. Many of these creators took time from their busy schedules -- talking with fans, signing books, and working on commissions -- to talk with the guys for a few minutes, discussing their works and sharing their experiences at the con. This episode of the podcast includes brief conversations with ten different artists and that, taken together, demonstrate the creative diversity to be found at this year's HeroesCon. First, Derek talks with Sophie Goldstein and Jenn Jordan about their webcomic-turned-book, Darwin Carmichael is Going to Hell, as well as Sophie's Ignatz Award-winning House of Women and the recently published The Oven. After that, Andy has a conversation with Michel Fiffe about his ongoing Copra series and his recent work on various Marvel titles. This is followed by another f**k-filled conversation with Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller (who were just on the podcast last month) about the reception to the latest issue of The Humans, and then a more toned-down discourse with friend-of-the-podcast Craig Yoe on his experiences at HeroesCon, Weird Love, his enjoyment of cosplayers, and an awards message that he delivers for Steve Ditko. Next, Andy talks with Royden Lepp about his high-octane adventure series, Rust, and his process of writing for young readers. This is followed by conversations with Justin Jordan about Spread, Dead Body Road, and the return of Luther Strode, and with Hoyt Silva on the reaction to his and Josh Blaylock's Operation Nemesis: A Story of Genocide and Revenge. Finally, Derek wraps up this this on-location interview segment by talking with Max Dowdle about his fine art background and his graphic novel Shattered with Curve of Horn. While Derek and Andy W. were at HeroesCon last weekend, they were able to meet a variety of artists and writers tabling in Artists Alley. Many of these creators took time from their busy schedules -- talking with fans, signing books, and working on commissions -- to talk with the guys for a few minutes, discussing their works and sharing their experiences at the con. This episode of the podcast includes brief conversations with ten different artists and that, taken together, demonstrate the creative diversity to be found at this year's HeroesCon. First, Derek talks with Sophie Goldstein and Jenn Jordan about their webcomic-turned-book, Darwin Carmichael is Going to Hell, as well as Sophie's Ignatz Award-winning House of Women and the recently published The Oven. After that, Andy has a conversation with Michel Fiffe about his ongoing Copra series and his recent work on various Marvel titles. This is followed by another f**k-filled conversation with Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller (who were just on the podcast last month) about the reception to the latest issue of The Humans, and then a more toned-down discourse with friend-of-the-podcast Craig Yoe on his experiences at HeroesCon, Weird Love, his enjoyment of cosplayers, and an awards message that he delivers for Steve Ditko. Next, Andy talks with Royden Lepp about his high-octane adventure series, Rust, and his process of writing for young readers. This is followed by conversations with Justin Jordan about Spread, Dead Body Road, and the return of Luther Strode, and with Hoyt Silva on the reaction to his and Josh Blaylock's Operation Nemesis: A Story of Genocide and Revenge. Finally, Derek wraps up this this on-location interview segment by talking with Max Dowdle about his fine art background and his graphic novel Shattered with Curve of Horn.

]]> 4171 yes Episode 141 - Reviews of Grip: The Strange World of Men, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, and Providence #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-141.mp3 This week, Derek and Andy W. -- fresh from their trip to HeroesCon -- return with a discussion of three new, fascinating, and...well, whacked out comics. But they're all whacked out in their own, unique ways. They begin with the release of Gilbert Hernandez's Grip: The Strange World of Men (Dark Horse Books). This is not really a new work from Hernandez, as Grip was originally published in color as a five-issue limited series from Vertigo in 2002. (The new book contains only black and white art.) But the recent Dark Horse release marks the first time that the entire story has been collected. What's more, Hernandez provides four new pages that function as the setup of this strange narrative. And what a weird and twisted story it is, but it's one that distinctively bares the mark of Gilbert Hernandez. The guys attempt to follow the various narrative threads, but making sense of this story is beside the point. What matters is Hernandez's imagination and the fun to be had slipping into his narrative world. Derek even argues that the story comes at a curious time in Hernandez's career, several years after the end of the first Love and Rockets series, the beginning of the second series, and at a time when Gilbert is reaching beyond the more realistic confines of his Palomar stories. Next, the Two Guys turn to Eric Shanower and Gabriel Rodriguez's Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland (IDW Publishing). Andy admits that, at first, he was a little hesitant about this book, thinking that it might be nothing more than a mere retread of Windsor McCay's newsprint classic. But Shanower and Rodriguez -- known largely for their Wizard of Oz and Locke and Key comics, respectively  -- are up to much more than that. Their Little Nemo uses McCay's as a springboard into an entirely new narrative, pulling in some elements of the earlier comic, yet at the same time bringing in new figures to present a long-form story. Readers may recognize similarities to McCay's pacing, his humor, and his innovation, but this project easily stands on its own. Finally, the guys look at the first issue of a new twelve-part series from Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows. Providence (Avatar Press) is another Lovecraftian tale similar to the team's earlier Neonomicon and The Courtyard, yet this one has been described by the publisher as "the Watchmen of horror." That's a lot to live up to, as both Andy and Derek discuss in their coverage of this first issue. But the guys point out that if the inaugural installment is any indication, this may not be mere hype. While nothing much seems to happen in this issue, there are actually multiple stories being told, with Moore setting the stage for a larger, disturbing narrative. Much like the allusive Cthulhu, there is an unsettling presence lying just beneath the surface of what unfolds in this first issue. Wed, 24 Jun 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Whacked Out Comics This week, Derek and Andy W. -- fresh from their trip to HeroesCon -- return with a discussion of three new, fascinating, and...well, whacked out comics. But they're all whacked out in their own, unique ways. They begin with the release of Gilbert Hernandez's Grip: The Strange World of Men (Dark Horse Books). This is not really a new work from Hernandez, as Grip was originally published in color as a five-issue limited series from Vertigo in 2002. (The new book contains only black and white art.) But the recent Dark Horse release marks the first time that the entire story has been collected. What's more, Hernandez provides four new pages that function as the setup of this strange narrative. And what a weird and twisted story it is, but it's one that distinctively bares the mark of Gilbert Hernandez. The guys attempt to follow the various narrative threads, but making sense of this story is beside the point. What matters is Hernandez's imagination and the fun to be had slipping into his narrative world. Derek even argues that the story comes at a curious time in Hernandez's career, several years after the end of the first Love and Rockets series, the beginning of the second series, and at a time when Gilbert is reaching beyond the more realistic confines of his Palomar stories. Next, the Two Guys turn to Eric Shanower and Gabriel Rodriguez's Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland (IDW Publishing). Andy admits that, at first, he was a little hesitant about this book, thinking that it might be nothing more than a mere retread of Windsor McCay's newsprint classic. But Shanower and Rodriguez -- known largely for their Wizard of Oz and Locke and Key comics, respectively  -- are up to much more than that. Their Little Nemo uses McCay's as a springboard into an entirely new narrative, pulling in some elements of the earlier comic, yet at the same time bringing in new figures to present a long-form story. Readers may recognize similarities to McCay's pacing, his humor, and his innovation, but this project easily stands on its own. Finally, the guys look at the first issue of a new twelve-part series from Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows. Providence (Avatar Press) is another Lovecraftian tale similar to the team's earlier Neonomicon and The Courtyard, yet this one has been described by the publisher as "the Watchmen of horror." That's a lot to live up to, as both Andy and Derek discuss in their coverage of this first issue. But the guys point out that if the inaugural installment is any indication, this may not be mere hype. While nothing much seems to happen in this issue, there are actually multiple stories being told, with Moore setting the stage for a larger, disturbing narrative. Much like the allusive Cthulhu, there is an unsettling presence lying just beneath the surface of what unfolds in this first issue. This week, Derek and Andy W. -- fresh from their trip to HeroesCon -- return with a discussion of three new, fascinating, and...well, whacked out comics. But they're all whacked out in their own, unique ways. They begin with the release of Gilbert Hernandez's Grip: The Strange World of Men (Dark Horse Books). This is not really a new work from Hernandez, as Grip was originally published in color as a five-issue limited series from Vertigo in 2002. (The new book contains only black and white art.) But the recent Dark Horse release marks the first time that the entire story has been collected. What's more, Hernandez provides four new pages that function as the setup of this strange narrative. And what a weird and twisted story it is, but it's one that distinctively bares the mark of Gilbert Hernandez. The guys attempt to follow the various narrative threads, but making sense of this story is beside the point. What matters is Hernandez's imagination and the fun to be had slipping into his narrative world. Derek even argues that the story comes at a curious time in Hernandez's career, several years after the end of the first Love and Rockets series, the beginning of the second series, and at a time when Gilbert is reaching beyond the more realistic confines of his Palomar stories. Next, the Two Guys turn to Eric Shanower and Gabriel Rodriguez's Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland (IDW Publishing). Andy admits that, at first, he was a little hesitant about this book, thinking that it might be nothing more than a mere retread of Windsor McCay's newsprint classic. But Shanower and Rodriguez -- known largely for their Wizard of Oz and Locke and Key comics, respectively  -- are up to much more than that. Their Little Nemo uses McCay's as a springboard into an entirely new narrative, pulling in some elements of the earlier comic, yet at the same time bringing in new figures to present a long-form story. Readers may recognize similarities to McCay's pacing, his humor, and his innovation, but this project easily stands on its own. Finally, the guys look at the first issue of a new twelve-part series from Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows. Providence (Avatar Press) is another Lovecraftian tale similar to the team's earlier Neonomicon and The Courtyard, yet this one has been described by the publisher as "the Watchmen of horror." That's a lot to live up to, as both Andy and Derek discuss in their coverage of this first issue. But the guys point out that if the inaugural installment is any indication, this may not be mere hype. While nothing much seems to happen in this issue, there are actually multiple stories being told, with Moore setting the stage for a larger, disturbing narrative. Much like the allusive Cthulhu, there is an unsettling presence lying just beneath the surface of what unfolds in this first issue.

]]> 5380 no On Location - HeroesCon 2015 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation17.mp3 This year the Two....no, the Three Guys with PhDs attended HeroesCon, and they had a table there in the middle of Artists Alley. Andy Kunka, Andy Wolverton, and Derek Royal were there to check out the action, rummage through the dollar bins, search for new and interesting titles, talk with creators, get their books signed, and just generally enjoy the fun and camaraderie. On each of the three days of the con, Friday (June 19th) through Sunday (June 21st), they made it a point to record segments live from the floor, discussing the highlights and the experiences they took away from the event. Among the many topics they cover are the incredibly long lines for Jason Aarons, Jason Latour, Chip Zdarsky, Matt Fraction, and Kelly Sue DeConnick; their luck in having a table so close to friend-of-the-show and overall great guy, Craig Yoe; the wonderful experience of having fans of The Comics Alternative come up and talk with the guys; the adventures of trying to find a place for dinner after the con lets out for the day; the kind of treasures they uncover when digging through stacks of back issues; the good and the bad of fan enthusiasm; their favorite discoveries of the day; the kind of encounters and conversations they had with the many creators in Artists Alley; and the weird effectiveness of the sign at their booth. For the most part, Derek, Andy, and Andy did their recordings at the end of each day -- providing a general wrap-up of the day's events -- but on Sunday they recorded two segments, the first one in the morning, so as to include Andy Wolverton before he had to head back home to Maryland (he was driving the long distance). The crowd at this year's HeroesCon was record breaking, and in the background of their recordings you can hear the constant buzz of attendees as they roam the floor. In fact, on a few occasions people came up to the table while the guys were recording, talking on the show and sharing some of the experiences they had. All in all, the Three Guys had a great time, and they plan to table at HeroesCon again next year. This is the first of several episodes of The Comics Alternative at HeroesCon 2015. In the coming days the guys will post two full episodes of conversations with creators in Artists Alley as well as a recording of the panel Derek and Andy Kunka participated in the first day of the con. Keep your ears open! Tue, 23 Jun 2015 10:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wonder Book of Rubber This year the Two....no, the Three Guys with PhDs attended HeroesCon, and they had a table there in the middle of Artists Alley. Andy Kunka, Andy Wolverton, and Derek Royal were there to check out the action, rummage through the dollar bins, search for new and interesting titles, talk with creators, get their books signed, and just generally enjoy the fun and camaraderie. On each of the three days of the con, Friday (June 19th) through Sunday (June 21st), they made it a point to record segments live from the floor, discussing the highlights and the experiences they took away from the event. Among the many topics they cover are the incredibly long lines for Jason Aarons, Jason Latour, Chip Zdarsky, Matt Fraction, and Kelly Sue DeConnick; their luck in having a table so close to friend-of-the-show and overall great guy, Craig Yoe; the wonderful experience of having fans of The Comics Alternative come up and talk with the guys; the adventures of trying to find a place for dinner after the con lets out for the day; the kind of treasures they uncover when digging through stacks of back issues; the good and the bad of fan enthusiasm; their favorite discoveries of the day; the kind of encounters and conversations they had with the many creators in Artists Alley; and the weird effectiveness of the sign at their booth. For the most part, Derek, Andy, and Andy did their recordings at the end of each day -- providing a general wrap-up of the day's events -- but on Sunday they recorded two segments, the first one in the morning, so as to include Andy Wolverton before he had to head back home to Maryland (he was driving the long distance). The crowd at this year's HeroesCon was record breaking, and in the background of their recordings you can hear the constant buzz of attendees as they roam the floor. In fact, on a few occasions people came up to the table while the guys were recording, talking on the show and sharing some of the experiences they had. All in all, the Three Guys had a great time, and they plan to table at HeroesCon again next year. This is the first of several episodes of The Comics Alternative at HeroesCon 2015. In the coming days the guys will post two full episodes of conversations with creators in Artists Alley as well as a recording of the panel Derek and Andy Kunka participated in the first day of the con. Keep your ears open! This year the Two....no, the Three Guys with PhDs attended HeroesCon, and they had a table there in the middle of Artists Alley. Andy Kunka, Andy Wolverton, and Derek Royal were there to check out the action, rummage through the dollar bins, search for new and interesting titles, talk with creators, get their books signed, and just generally enjoy the fun and camaraderie. On each of the three days of the con, Friday (June 19th) through Sunday (June 21st), they made it a point to record segments live from the floor, discussing the highlights and the experiences they took away from the event. Among the many topics they cover are the incredibly long lines for Jason Aarons, Jason Latour, Chip Zdarsky, Matt Fraction, and Kelly Sue DeConnick; their luck in having a table so close to friend-of-the-show and overall great guy, Craig Yoe; the wonderful experience of having fans of The Comics Alternative come up and talk with the guys; the adventures of trying to find a place for dinner after the con lets out for the day; the kind of treasures they uncover when digging through stacks of back issues; the good and the bad of fan enthusiasm; their favorite discoveries of the day; the kind of encounters and conversations they had with the many creators in Artists Alley; and the weird effectiveness of the sign at their booth. For the most part, Derek, Andy, and Andy did their recordings at the end of each day -- providing a general wrap-up of the day's events -- but on Sunday they recorded two segments, the first one in the morning, so as to include Andy Wolverton before he had to head back home to Maryland (he was driving the long distance). The crowd at this year's HeroesCon was record breaking, and in the background of their recordings you can hear the constant buzz of attendees as they roam the floor. In fact, on a few occasions people came up to the table while the guys were recording, talking on the show and sharing some of the experiences they had. All in all, the Three Guys had a great time, and they plan to table at HeroesCon again next year. This is the first of several episodes of The Comics Alternative at HeroesCon 2015. In the coming days the guys will post two full episodes of conversations with creators in Artists Alley as well as a recording of the panel Derek and Andy Kunka participated in the first day of the con. Keep your ears open!

]]> 5368 no Interviews - Tillie Walden http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews51-Walden.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has a great time talking with Tillie Walden, the author of a brand new book from Avery Hill Publishing, The End of Summer. This is her debut graphic novel, and, in fact, her conversation with Derek is the very first time she's been on a podcast. (Yet another Comics Alternative exclusive!) On the show, Tillie talks about the origins of her story, her process of creation, and the unlikely events that led to her first publication. The End of Summer is a narrative of purpose in isolation, an attempt to find meaning in a life defined by diminishing options. Walden's haunting art reveals the inner turmoil of her protagonist/narrator, Lars, as he negotiates the tangles within his family over the course of one long winter. Plus, she includes in her story a giant cat by the name of Nemo. Derek talks with Tillie about the balancing act of being a full-time student -- she's just wrapped up her first year at the Center for Cartoon Studies -- and creating a long-form comic. They also discuss her love of architectural illustration (evident throughout the book), the dream-like quality of her storytelling, and the many instances of Kubrick's The Shining that kept popping into Derek's head as he was reading the book. All in all, it is an illuminating conversation that will have you wanting to check out this promising young writer. Fri, 19 Jun 2015 11:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Great party, isn't it?" On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has a great time talking with Tillie Walden, the author of a brand new book from Avery Hill Publishing, The End of Summer. This is her debut graphic novel, and, in fact, her conversation with Derek is the very first time she's been on a podcast. (Yet another Comics Alternative exclusive!) On the show, Tillie talks about the origins of her story, her process of creation, and the unlikely events that led to her first publication. The End of Summer is a narrative of purpose in isolation, an attempt to find meaning in a life defined by diminishing options. Walden's haunting art reveals the inner turmoil of her protagonist/narrator, Lars, as he negotiates the tangles within his family over the course of one long winter. Plus, she includes in her story a giant cat by the name of Nemo. Derek talks with Tillie about the balancing act of being a full-time student -- she's just wrapped up her first year at the Center for Cartoon Studies -- and creating a long-form comic. They also discuss her love of architectural illustration (evident throughout the book), the dream-like quality of her storytelling, and the many instances of Kubrick's The Shining that kept popping into Derek's head as he was reading the book. All in all, it is an illuminating conversation that will have you wanting to check out this promising young writer. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has a great time talking with Tillie Walden, the author of a brand new book from Avery Hill Publishing, The End of Summer. This is her debut graphic novel, and, in fact, her conversation with Derek is the very first time she's been on a podcast. (Yet another Comics Alternative exclusive!) On the show, Tillie talks about the origins of her story, her process of creation, and the unlikely events that led to her first publication. The End of Summer is a narrative of purpose in isolation, an attempt to find meaning in a life defined by diminishing options. Walden's haunting art reveals the inner turmoil of her protagonist/narrator, Lars, as he negotiates the tangles within his family over the course of one long winter. Plus, she includes in her story a giant cat by the name of Nemo. Derek talks with Tillie about the balancing act of being a full-time student -- she's just wrapped up her first year at the Center for Cartoon Studies -- and creating a long-form comic. They also discuss her love of architectural illustration (evident throughout the book), the dream-like quality of her storytelling, and the many instances of Kubrick's The Shining that kept popping into Derek's head as he was reading the book. All in all, it is an illuminating conversation that will have you wanting to check out this promising young writer.

]]> 3238 no Episode 140 - A Publisher Spotlight on AdHouse Books http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-140.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are back for another Publisher Spotlight, and this time they turn their attention to recent releases from AdHouse Books. On this episode, they look at the publisher's 2015 catalog (so far), but first Derek talks briefly with AdHouse's founder and publisher, Chris Pitzer. He gives the lowdown on the origins of the press, how he translated his designer skills into publishing acumen, the process of artist acquisition, and some of his most notable (and unlikely) publishing successes over the years. After that, the guys plunge into their discussion of the five books that have come out -- or are about to come out -- from AdHouse this year. They start with the new edition of Jim Rugg's Street Angel. Both Derek and Andy Kunka had already discussed last year's Street Angel when they had Rugg on for an interview earlier this year, but this new edition gives the reader a different color experience. Whereas the earlier book contained black and white art, this one sets the illustrations on pink paper, giving Jesse "Street Angel" Sanchez's adventures a whole new feel as she keeps the world safe from ninja gangs, evil geologists, nepotism, and math homework. Next, the Two Guys discuss a truly offbeat book from Eric Haven. Ur is a collection of strange, absurd, and hilarious short comics reminiscent of the works of Michael Kupperman, Evan Dorkin, and Ryan Browne. Highlights include the heroics of Bed Man, Dream Lord of the Night Sky, and the demented adventures of everyman Race Murdock. Without question, this is one of the guys' reading highlights of the week. Next, they turn to the fourth issue of Ethan Rilly's Pope Hats. The guys bring different perspectives to Rilly's work, with Derek having read the previous issues and this being Andy's first exposure to the series. Fans of Pope Hats will find this a different kind of issue. The story of Frances and Vickie is temporarily put on hold while Rilly presents many of his previously published short comics, including the meditative "Stained Glass" and the psychologically moving "The Nest." After that, the guys look at Sophie Goldstein's novella-length work, The Oven. This is an alternate world, post-apocalyptic narrative about living off the grid and how empowering and life-changing such a move can be. Goldstein's simple, evenly paced art reveals  deeper levels of understanding than its small page count might suggest. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up their spotlight with a discussion of Kathryn and Stuart Immonen's soon-to-be-released Russian Olive to Red King. Much like The Oven, this is a relationship story that unfolds slowly, allowing character to develop in organic and natural ways. In addition to the art, one of the most striking aspects of the book is it's last third, composed almost entirely of text. The guys note that while prose-heavy narrative can be a potential put-off in comics, Kathryn Immonen handles the story brilliantly, using the text to add depth to its more stoic art. Andy declares this one of his favorite books of 2015 so far. In fact, you could say something similar about all of this year's AdHouse books taken together. Wed, 17 Jun 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fun with AdHouse The Two Guys with PhDs are back for another Publisher Spotlight, and this time they turn their attention to recent releases from AdHouse Books. On this episode, they look at the publisher's 2015 catalog (so far), but first Derek talks briefly with AdHouse's founder and publisher, Chris Pitzer. He gives the lowdown on the origins of the press, how he translated his designer skills into publishing acumen, the process of artist acquisition, and some of his most notable (and unlikely) publishing successes over the years. After that, the guys plunge into their discussion of the five books that have come out -- or are about to come out -- from AdHouse this year. They start with the new edition of Jim Rugg's Street Angel. Both Derek and Andy Kunka had already discussed last year's Street Angel when they had Rugg on for an interview earlier this year, but this new edition gives the reader a different color experience. Whereas the earlier book contained black and white art, this one sets the illustrations on pink paper, giving Jesse "Street Angel" Sanchez's adventures a whole new feel as she keeps the world safe from ninja gangs, evil geologists, nepotism, and math homework. Next, the Two Guys discuss a truly offbeat book from Eric Haven. Ur is a collection of strange, absurd, and hilarious short comics reminiscent of the works of Michael Kupperman, Evan Dorkin, and Ryan Browne. Highlights include the heroics of Bed Man, Dream Lord of the Night Sky, and the demented adventures of everyman Race Murdock. Without question, this is one of the guys' reading highlights of the week. Next, they turn to the fourth issue of Ethan Rilly's Pope Hats. The guys bring different perspectives to Rilly's work, with Derek having read the previous issues and this being Andy's first exposure to the series. Fans of Pope Hats will find this a different kind of issue. The story of Frances and Vickie is temporarily put on hold while Rilly presents many of his previously published short comics, including the meditative "Stained Glass" and the psychologically moving "The Nest." After that, the guys look at Sophie Goldstein's novella-length work, The Oven. This is an alternate world, post-apocalyptic narrative about living off the grid and how empowering and life-changing such a move can be. Goldstein's simple, evenly paced art reveals  deeper levels of understanding than its small page count might suggest. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up their spotlight with a discussion of Kathryn and Stuart Immonen's soon-to-be-released Russian Olive to Red King. Much like The Oven, this is a relationship story that unfolds slowly, allowing character to develop in organic and natural ways. In addition to the art, one of the most striking aspects of the book is it's last third, composed almost entirely of text. The guys note that while prose-heavy narrative can be a potential put-off in comics, Kathryn Immonen handles the story brilliantly, using the text to add depth to its more stoic art. Andy declares this one of his favorite books of 2015 so far. In fact, you could say something similar about all of this year's AdHouse books taken together. The Two Guys with PhDs are back for another Publisher Spotlight, and this time they turn their attention to recent releases from AdHouse Books. On this episode, they look at the publisher's 2015 catalog (so far), but first Derek talks briefly with AdHouse's founder and publisher, Chris Pitzer. He gives the lowdown on the origins of the press, how he translated his designer skills into publishing acumen, the process of artist acquisition, and some of his most notable (and unlikely) publishing successes over the years. After that, the guys plunge into their discussion of the five books that have come out -- or are about to come out -- from AdHouse this year. They start with the new edition of Jim Rugg's Street Angel. Both Derek and Andy Kunka had already discussed last year's Street Angel when they had Rugg on for an interview earlier this year, but this new edition gives the reader a different color experience. Whereas the earlier book contained black and white art, this one sets the illustrations on pink paper, giving Jesse "Street Angel" Sanchez's adventures a whole new feel as she keeps the world safe from ninja gangs, evil geologists, nepotism, and math homework. Next, the Two Guys discuss a truly offbeat book from Eric Haven. Ur is a collection of strange, absurd, and hilarious short comics reminiscent of the works of Michael Kupperman, Evan Dorkin, and Ryan Browne. Highlights include the heroics of Bed Man, Dream Lord of the Night Sky, and the demented adventures of everyman Race Murdock. Without question, this is one of the guys' reading highlights of the week. Next, they turn to the fourth issue of Ethan Rilly's Pope Hats. The guys bring different perspectives to Rilly's work, with Derek having read the previous issues and this being Andy's first exposure to the series. Fans of Pope Hats will find this a different kind of issue. The story of Frances and Vickie is temporarily put on hold while Rilly presents many of his previously published short comics, including the meditative "Stained Glass" and the psychologically moving "The Nest." After that, the guys look at Sophie Goldstein's novella-length work, The Oven. This is an alternate world, post-apocalyptic narrative about living off the grid and how empowering and life-changing such a move can be. Goldstein's simple, evenly paced art reveals  deeper levels of understanding than its small page count might suggest. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up their spotlight with a discussion of Kathryn and Stuart Immonen's soon-to-be-released Russian Olive to Red King. Much like The Oven, this is a relationship story that unfolds slowly, allowing character to develop in organic and natural ways. In addition to the art, one of the most striking aspects of the book is it's last third, composed almost entirely of text. The guys note that while prose-heavy narrative can be a potential put-off in comics, Kathryn Immonen handles the story brilliantly, using the text to add depth to its more stoic art. Andy declares this one of his favorite books of 2015 so far. In fact, you could say something similar about all of this year's AdHouse books taken together.

]]> 7901 no Interviews - Rick Geary http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews50-Geary.mp3 The Comics Alternative is excited to have Rick Geary back on the show. The guys had last talked to him two years ago, after the publication of A Treasury of Victorian Murder Compendium, Vol. 1, and now Rick is returning to the podcast to discuss his brand new book, Louise Brooks: Detective (NBM). Although similar in tone to his historical murder mysteries, this is a very different kind of narrative for Rick. Here he uses the biography of silent film star, Louise Brooks, as a springboard for a fictional tale set in Depression-era Kansas (a setting with familial roots for Rick). After her heyday as a silent movie star, the toast of both America and Europe society, and a divorcée from two unsuccessful marriages, a still-young Louise returns to her family home of Wichita to regroup and assess her life. There, she attempts to readjust to small-town living, tries her hand at becoming a writer, and eventually becomes embroiled in an elaborate and seemingly indecipherable mystery involving a once-famous playwright. Andy and Derek tell Rick that this is one of the most tightly wrought narratives they've read this year, with the kind of pacing and art that define his best Treasury pieces. They even ask him if this is the beginning of a new series of tales, one where Brooks becomes a sleuth in the mold of Miss Marple or Nancy Drew. (There are no plans yet, but the very end of the Louise Brooks:Detective definitely leaves that door open.) The guys also talk with Rick about his other projects, including his previous book, Madison Square Tragedy: The Murder of Stanford White, his adaptation of classic works of literature for both Eureka Productions' Graphic Classics and Seven Stories Press' Graphic Canon series, his fascination of architecture and period dress, and his plans for future historical murder mysteries. Rick tells the guys about a few of his upcoming projects, including a new work based on the 1947 Black Dahlia case and his soon-to-be-launched Kickstarter campaign, "Murder at the Hollywood Hotel." Unfortunately, the guys didn't have the time to ask Rick about everything they wanted to discuss with him -- e.g., his upcoming appearance at the SDCC and his work on last year's A is for Antichrist: Obama’s Conspiracy Alphabet -- but there is nonetheless a lot packed into this interview. It is a fun and informative conversation, and the guys look forward to the time that they can have Rick back on the show for a third interview. Mon, 15 Jun 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bob-Haired Sleuth The Comics Alternative is excited to have Rick Geary back on the show. The guys had last talked to him two years ago, after the publication of A Treasury of Victorian Murder Compendium, Vol. 1, and now Rick is returning to the podcast to discuss his brand new book, Louise Brooks: Detective (NBM). Although similar in tone to his historical murder mysteries, this is a very different kind of narrative for Rick. Here he uses the biography of silent film star, Louise Brooks, as a springboard for a fictional tale set in Depression-era Kansas (a setting with familial roots for Rick). After her heyday as a silent movie star, the toast of both America and Europe society, and a divorcée from two unsuccessful marriages, a still-young Louise returns to her family home of Wichita to regroup and assess her life. There, she attempts to readjust to small-town living, tries her hand at becoming a writer, and eventually becomes embroiled in an elaborate and seemingly indecipherable mystery involving a once-famous playwright. Andy and Derek tell Rick that this is one of the most tightly wrought narratives they've read this year, with the kind of pacing and art that define his best Treasury pieces. They even ask him if this is the beginning of a new series of tales, one where Brooks becomes a sleuth in the mold of Miss Marple or Nancy Drew. (There are no plans yet, but the very end of the Louise Brooks:Detective definitely leaves that door open.) The guys also talk with Rick about his other projects, including his previous book, Madison Square Tragedy: The Murder of Stanford White, his adaptation of classic works of literature for both Eureka Productions' Graphic Classics and Seven Stories Press' Graphic Canon series, his fascination of architecture and period dress, and his plans for future historical murder mysteries. Rick tells the guys about a few of his upcoming projects, including a new work based on the 1947 Black Dahlia case and his soon-to-be-launched Kickstarter campaign, "Murder at the Hollywood Hotel." Unfortunately, the guys didn't have the time to ask Rick about everything they wanted to discuss with him -- e.g., his upcoming appearance at the SDCC and his work on last year's A is for Antichrist: Obama’s Conspiracy Alphabet -- but there is nonetheless a lot packed into this interview. It is a fun and informative conversation, and the guys look forward to the time that they can have Rick back on the show for a third interview. The Comics Alternative is excited to have Rick Geary back on the show. The guys had last talked to him two years ago, after the publication of A Treasury of Victorian Murder Compendium, Vol. 1, and now Rick is returning to the podcast to discuss his brand new book, Louise Brooks: Detective (NBM). Although similar in tone to his historical murder mysteries, this is a very different kind of narrative for Rick. Here he uses the biography of silent film star, Louise Brooks, as a springboard for a fictional tale set in Depression-era Kansas (a setting with familial roots for Rick). After her heyday as a silent movie star, the toast of both America and Europe society, and a divorcée from two unsuccessful marriages, a still-young Louise returns to her family home of Wichita to regroup and assess her life. There, she attempts to readjust to small-town living, tries her hand at becoming a writer, and eventually becomes embroiled in an elaborate and seemingly indecipherable mystery involving a once-famous playwright. Andy and Derek tell Rick that this is one of the most tightly wrought narratives they've read this year, with the kind of pacing and art that define his best Treasury pieces. They even ask him if this is the beginning of a new series of tales, one where Brooks becomes a sleuth in the mold of Miss Marple or Nancy Drew. (There are no plans yet, but the very end of the Louise Brooks:Detective definitely leaves that door open.) The guys also talk with Rick about his other projects, including his previous book, Madison Square Tragedy: The Murder of Stanford White, his adaptation of classic works of literature for both Eureka Productions' Graphic Classics and Seven Stories Press' Graphic Canon series, his fascination of architecture and period dress, and his plans for future historical murder mysteries. Rick tells the guys about a few of his upcoming projects, including a new work based on the 1947 Black Dahlia case and his soon-to-be-launched Kickstarter campaign, "Murder at the Hollywood Hotel." Unfortunately, the guys didn't have the time to ask Rick about everything they wanted to discuss with him -- e.g., his upcoming appearance at the SDCC and his work on last year's A is for Antichrist: Obama’s Conspiracy Alphabet -- but there is nonetheless a lot packed into this interview. It is a fun and informative conversation, and the guys look forward to the time that they can have Rick back on the show for a third interview.

]]> 3717 no On Location - Winging It at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation16.mp3 Once again, Derek is back at  his local comics shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about comics culture. This month the topic was supposed to be summer movies and comics, with people chiming in on the recent releases of Avengers: Age of Ultron and Mad Max: Fury Road, as well as  the upcoming Ant-Man and Fantastic Four. However, there was only one of the on-location regulars who showed up this month, Shea Hennum, and much like Derek, he wasn't informed enough about the summer movies to help carry the conversation. So instead, Derek and Shea talked about a variety of other comics-related topics. On this show, they cover a broad and casual range, discussing the latest issue of Adrian Tomine's Optic Nerve and the upcoming release of Killing and Dying, the recent collected Angry Youth Comix and the "appropriateness" of Johnny Ryan's art, potential problems in publishing a webcomic into book form, Jon Morris's new book The League of Regrettable Superheroes, the upcoming series wrap-up of Ales Kot's Zero, the current state of comics criticism/journalism, and Shea's uncanny ability to alienate creators through his own writing. So even though the guys had to wing it for this month's topic, it all turned out OK. Perhaps they'll hold over the summer movies theme for July. Tune in next month, dear listener, and find out! Fri, 12 Jun 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Movie Free Once again, Derek is back at  his local comics shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about comics culture. This month the topic was supposed to be summer movies and comics, with people chiming in on the recent releases of Avengers: Age of Ultron and Mad Max: Fury Road, as well as  the upcoming Ant-Man and Fantastic Four. However, there was only one of the on-location regulars who showed up this month, Shea Hennum, and much like Derek, he wasn't informed enough about the summer movies to help carry the conversation. So instead, Derek and Shea talked about a variety of other comics-related topics. On this show, they cover a broad and casual range, discussing the latest issue of Adrian Tomine's Optic Nerve and the upcoming release of Killing and Dying, the recent collected Angry Youth Comix and the "appropriateness" of Johnny Ryan's art, potential problems in publishing a webcomic into book form, Jon Morris's new book The League of Regrettable Superheroes, the upcoming series wrap-up of Ales Kot's Zero, the current state of comics criticism/journalism, and Shea's uncanny ability to alienate creators through his own writing. So even though the guys had to wing it for this month's topic, it all turned out OK. Perhaps they'll hold over the summer movies theme for July. Tune in next month, dear listener, and find out! Once again, Derek is back at  his local comics shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and shop employees about comics culture. This month the topic was supposed to be summer movies and comics, with people chiming in on the recent releases of Avengers: Age of Ultron and Mad Max: Fury Road, as well as  the upcoming Ant-Man and Fantastic Four. However, there was only one of the on-location regulars who showed up this month, Shea Hennum, and much like Derek, he wasn't informed enough about the summer movies to help carry the conversation. So instead, Derek and Shea talked about a variety of other comics-related topics. On this show, they cover a broad and casual range, discussing the latest issue of Adrian Tomine's Optic Nerve and the upcoming release of Killing and Dying, the recent collected Angry Youth Comix and the "appropriateness" of Johnny Ryan's art, potential problems in publishing a webcomic into book form, Jon Morris's new book The League of Regrettable Superheroes, the upcoming series wrap-up of Ales Kot's Zero, the current state of comics criticism/journalism, and Shea's uncanny ability to alienate creators through his own writing. So even though the guys had to wing it for this month's topic, it all turned out OK. Perhaps they'll hold over the summer movies theme for July. Tune in next month, dear listener, and find out!

]]> 4574 no Episode 139 - Reviews of Mike’s Place, Nimona, and Optic Nerve #14 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-139.mp3 This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new and very different titles. They begin with a narrative based in reality, Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, written by Jack Baxter and Joshua Faudem, with art by Koren Shadmi (First Second). This is the story of an American who travels to Israel to make a documentary, teams up with an Israeli film student, and then learns firsthand both the promises and the dangers of the conflicted culture. Mike's Place is beachfront bar in Tel Aviv where politics and religion are checked at the front door. It's sacred text is written with music, drink, and multicultural camaraderie. But the filmmakers soon learn that safe havens, political and personal, can be a tenuous proposition. Andy and Derek highlight the authors' evenhanded approach to their politically charged subject matter as well as their ability to make Mike's Place a story of community, not a single-minded treatise. And after all of that reality, the Two Guys head in the opposite direction with fantasy. Noelle Stevenson's Nimona (HarperCollins) is a story with supervillains, shapeshifters, and lots of cool scheming. This was a highly popular webcomic -- in fact, it's nominated in that category for this year's Eisner Awards -- that is now high-production trade paperback. Overall, both of the guys like the book, however, both of them also have problems with Stevenson's narrative. Andy feels that the author changes the rules of her storytelling as the book progresses, giving it an uneven feel. And Derek has problems with the pacing and overall story coherency. There are some scenes that are much too decompressed, and at times the dialogue is bloated and meandering. In many ways, the guys see Nimona as illustrative example of how popular webcomics may not successfully translate into other narrative platforms. Stevenson's style might have resonated with devoted web readers, eagerly awaiting each digital installment, but that kind of storytelling isn't always as effective (or as convincing) when presented as a singular text. Standing in stark contrast is the final title that Derek and Andy discuss, Optic Nerve #14, by Adrian Tomine. As he reveals in the issue's final self-depricating one-pager, Tomine has tried to resist the instantaneous, immediately gratifying world of digital publication and social media. This latest issue of his signature series, published by Drawn and Quarterly since 1995, is divided into two main stories. "Killing and Dying" is a family drama surrounding a teenager's desire to become a standup comedian, and "Intruders," dedicated to Yoshihiro Tatsumi, is an unsettling story about a soldier between tours of duty trying to reacquaint himself with his former life. Each is a brilliant example of Tomine's skills as a storyteller, his abilities to take common, everyday premises and invest in them profound themes. Issue #14 is reminiscent of the previous two issues of Optic Nerve -- structured similarly, presented similarly, and packaged similarly -- and all three will soon be collected together in Killing and Dying. Much like the guys felt about Seth and Palookaville last month, both Derek and Andy see Adrian Tomine as one of the most important comics artists working today, and his art is a careful, measured testament to medium's potential. Wed, 10 Jun 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Terror, Teens, and Tatsumi This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new and very different titles. They begin with a narrative based in reality, Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, written by Jack Baxter and Joshua Faudem, with art by Koren Shadmi (First Second). This is the story of an American who travels to Israel to make a documentary, teams up with an Israeli film student, and then learns firsthand both the promises and the dangers of the conflicted culture. Mike's Place is beachfront bar in Tel Aviv where politics and religion are checked at the front door. It's sacred text is written with music, drink, and multicultural camaraderie. But the filmmakers soon learn that safe havens, political and personal, can be a tenuous proposition. Andy and Derek highlight the authors' evenhanded approach to their politically charged subject matter as well as their ability to make Mike's Place a story of community, not a single-minded treatise. And after all of that reality, the Two Guys head in the opposite direction with fantasy. Noelle Stevenson's Nimona (HarperCollins) is a story with supervillains, shapeshifters, and lots of cool scheming. This was a highly popular webcomic -- in fact, it's nominated in that category for this year's Eisner Awards -- that is now high-production trade paperback. Overall, both of the guys like the book, however, both of them also have problems with Stevenson's narrative. Andy feels that the author changes the rules of her storytelling as the book progresses, giving it an uneven feel. And Derek has problems with the pacing and overall story coherency. There are some scenes that are much too decompressed, and at times the dialogue is bloated and meandering. In many ways, the guys see Nimona as illustrative example of how popular webcomics may not successfully translate into other narrative platforms. Stevenson's style might have resonated with devoted web readers, eagerly awaiting each digital installment, but that kind of storytelling isn't always as effective (or as convincing) when presented as a singular text. Standing in stark contrast is the final title that Derek and Andy discuss, Optic Nerve #14, by Adrian Tomine. As he reveals in the issue's final self-depricating one-pager, Tomine has tried to resist the instantaneous, immediately gratifying world of digital publication and social media. This latest issue of his signature series, published by Drawn and Quarterly since 1995, is divided into two main stories. "Killing and Dying" is a family drama surrounding a teenager's desire to become a standup comedian, and "Intruders," dedicated to Yoshihiro Tatsumi, is an unsettling story about a soldier between tours of duty trying to reacquaint himself with his former life. Each is a brilliant example of Tomine's skills as a storyteller, his abilities to take common, everyday premises and invest in them profound themes. Issue #14 is reminiscent of the previous two issues of Optic Nerve -- structured similarly, presented similarly, and packaged similarly -- and all three will soon be collected together in Killing and Dying. Much like the guys felt about Seth and Palookaville last month, both Derek and Andy see Adrian Tomine as one of the most important comics artists working today, and his art is a careful, measured testament to medium's potential. This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new and very different titles. They begin with a narrative based in reality, Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv, written by Jack Baxter and Joshua Faudem, with art by Koren Shadmi (First Second). This is the story of an American who travels to Israel to make a documentary, teams up with an Israeli film student, and then learns firsthand both the promises and the dangers of the conflicted culture. Mike's Place is beachfront bar in Tel Aviv where politics and religion are checked at the front door. It's sacred text is written with music, drink, and multicultural camaraderie. But the filmmakers soon learn that safe havens, political and personal, can be a tenuous proposition. Andy and Derek highlight the authors' evenhanded approach to their politically charged subject matter as well as their ability to make Mike's Place a story of community, not a single-minded treatise. And after all of that reality, the Two Guys head in the opposite direction with fantasy. Noelle Stevenson's Nimona (HarperCollins) is a story with supervillains, shapeshifters, and lots of cool scheming. This was a highly popular webcomic -- in fact, it's nominated in that category for this year's Eisner Awards -- that is now high-production trade paperback. Overall, both of the guys like the book, however, both of them also have problems with Stevenson's narrative. Andy feels that the author changes the rules of her storytelling as the book progresses, giving it an uneven feel. And Derek has problems with the pacing and overall story coherency. There are some scenes that are much too decompressed, and at times the dialogue is bloated and meandering. In many ways, the guys see Nimona as illustrative example of how popular webcomics may not successfully translate into other narrative platforms. Stevenson's style might have resonated with devoted web readers, eagerly awaiting each digital installment, but that kind of storytelling isn't always as effective (or as convincing) when presented as a singular text. Standing in stark contrast is the final title that Derek and Andy discuss, Optic Nerve #14, by Adrian Tomine. As he reveals in the issue's final self-depricating one-pager, Tomine has tried to resist the instantaneous, immediately gratifying world of digital publication and social media. This latest issue of his signature series, published by Drawn and Quarterly since 1995, is divided into two main stories. "Killing and Dying" is a family drama surrounding a teenager's desire to become a standup comedian, and "Intruders," dedicated to Yoshihiro Tatsumi, is an unsettling story about a soldier between tours of duty trying to reacquaint himself with his former life. Each is a brilliant example of Tomine's skills as a storyteller, his abilities to take common, everyday premises and invest in them profound themes. Issue #14 is reminiscent of the previous two issues of Optic Nerve -- structured similarly, presented similarly, and packaged similarly -- and all three will soon be collected together in Killing and Dying. Much like the guys felt about Seth and Palookaville last month, both Derek and Andy see Adrian Tomine as one of the most important comics artists working today, and his art is a careful, measured testament to medium's potential.

]]> 6415 no Webcomics - Reviews of Ectopiary, Thunderpaw, and Split Lip Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics7.mp3 This month on The Comics Alternative's webcomics show, Andy and Derek check out three intriguing titles. As they usually do, they begin by looking at two current and ongoing titles. They get the ball rolling with Hans Rickheit's Ectopiary, This is a surreal story of discovery involving a young girl, Dale, whose family life isn't the most ideal. Sent to live with her aunt and uncle, she tries to come to grips with her parents' precarious state and does so through a series of unlikely discoveries on her relatives' property. Fans of Rickheit's The Squirrel Machine and Cochlea and Eustachi will find a similarly mind-bending, and beautifully illustrated, narrative in Ectopiary. This webcomic hasn't been updated in quite a while, but the guys are willing to wait hopefully for such a compelling work as Ectopiary. After that, Derek and Andy return to an author they had briefly discussed in a recent review show. Jen Lee's Thunderpaw is a story with anthropomorphic animals trying to find their way in the wild. As in Vacancy, the protagonists in Thunderpaw are domesticated dogs who must contend with a completely unfamiliar surroundings, and in this narrative that setting is a post-apocalyptic world where humans are nowhere to be found. What distinguishes his webcomic is not so much the premise, as fascinating as it is, but the storytelling strategies that Lee employs. She uses animated GIFs to set the tone and create a sense of urgency, and she utilizes design and panel layout in a way that brilliantly illustrates Scott McCloud's concept of the "infinite canvas." The Two Guys wrap up with the completed webcomic of the month, although technically this one is still in the process of evolving. Split Lip Comics is an anthology comprising individual short stories, all written by Sam Costello, but illustrated by a variety of artists. This webcomic's tagline is "Strange thoughts beget strange deeds," and all of its stories underscore that tone. Andy likens it to Rod Serling's Night Gallery series from the 1970s, short vignettes with a macabre twist. The guys don't discuss all of the stories on the website -- there are over forty in the archives -- but they do highlight some of their favorites and the ones that particularly stood out to them. In the Two Guys with PhDs' valiant and ongoing attempt to explore the realm of webcomics, this is another fascinating step forward! Mon, 08 Jun 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal No Commentary This month on The Comics Alternative's webcomics show, Andy and Derek check out three intriguing titles. As they usually do, they begin by looking at two current and ongoing titles. They get the ball rolling with Hans Rickheit's Ectopiary, This is a surreal story of discovery involving a young girl, Dale, whose family life isn't the most ideal. Sent to live with her aunt and uncle, she tries to come to grips with her parents' precarious state and does so through a series of unlikely discoveries on her relatives' property. Fans of Rickheit's The Squirrel Machine and Cochlea and Eustachi will find a similarly mind-bending, and beautifully illustrated, narrative in Ectopiary. This webcomic hasn't been updated in quite a while, but the guys are willing to wait hopefully for such a compelling work as Ectopiary. After that, Derek and Andy return to an author they had briefly discussed in a recent review show. Jen Lee's Thunderpaw is a story with anthropomorphic animals trying to find their way in the wild. As in Vacancy, the protagonists in Thunderpaw are domesticated dogs who must contend with a completely unfamiliar surroundings, and in this narrative that setting is a post-apocalyptic world where humans are nowhere to be found. What distinguishes his webcomic is not so much the premise, as fascinating as it is, but the storytelling strategies that Lee employs. She uses animated GIFs to set the tone and create a sense of urgency, and she utilizes design and panel layout in a way that brilliantly illustrates Scott McCloud's concept of the "infinite canvas." The Two Guys wrap up with the completed webcomic of the month, although technically this one is still in the process of evolving. Split Lip Comics is an anthology comprising individual short stories, all written by Sam Costello, but illustrated by a variety of artists. This webcomic's tagline is "Strange thoughts beget strange deeds," and all of its stories underscore that tone. Andy likens it to Rod Serling's Night Gallery series from the 1970s, short vignettes with a macabre twist. The guys don't discuss all of the stories on the website -- there are over forty in the archives -- but they do highlight some of their favorites and the ones that particularly stood out to them. In the Two Guys with PhDs' valiant and ongoing attempt to explore the realm of webcomics, this is another fascinating step forward! This month on The Comics Alternative's webcomics show, Andy and Derek check out three intriguing titles. As they usually do, they begin by looking at two current and ongoing titles. They get the ball rolling with Hans Rickheit's Ectopiary, This is a surreal story of discovery involving a young girl, Dale, whose family life isn't the most ideal. Sent to live with her aunt and uncle, she tries to come to grips with her parents' precarious state and does so through a series of unlikely discoveries on her relatives' property. Fans of Rickheit's The Squirrel Machine and Cochlea and Eustachi will find a similarly mind-bending, and beautifully illustrated, narrative in Ectopiary. This webcomic hasn't been updated in quite a while, but the guys are willing to wait hopefully for such a compelling work as Ectopiary. After that, Derek and Andy return to an author they had briefly discussed in a recent review show. Jen Lee's Thunderpaw is a story with anthropomorphic animals trying to find their way in the wild. As in Vacancy, the protagonists in Thunderpaw are domesticated dogs who must contend with a completely unfamiliar surroundings, and in this narrative that setting is a post-apocalyptic world where humans are nowhere to be found. What distinguishes his webcomic is not so much the premise, as fascinating as it is, but the storytelling strategies that Lee employs. She uses animated GIFs to set the tone and create a sense of urgency, and she utilizes design and panel layout in a way that brilliantly illustrates Scott McCloud's concept of the "infinite canvas." The Two Guys wrap up with the completed webcomic of the month, although technically this one is still in the process of evolving. Split Lip Comics is an anthology comprising individual short stories, all written by Sam Costello, but illustrated by a variety of artists. This webcomic's tagline is "Strange thoughts beget strange deeds," and all of its stories underscore that tone. Andy likens it to Rod Serling's Night Gallery series from the 1970s, short vignettes with a macabre twist. The guys don't discuss all of the stories on the website -- there are over forty in the archives -- but they do highlight some of their favorites and the ones that particularly stood out to them. In the Two Guys with PhDs' valiant and ongoing attempt to explore the realm of webcomics, this is another fascinating step forward!

]]> 5118 no Episode 138 - The June Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-138.mp3 We're in the opening days of June, so that means it's time for another look at the Previews catalog. At the beginning of every month, the Two Guys like to take a gander at the current Previews, flipping through its many pages and highlighting those upcoming releases that really capture their attention. And even if there are comics that neither Derek nor Andy W. plans on getting himself, if they think it's interesting enough for listeners, then they'll mention those titles as well. As with the May Previews show -- which had a running time of over two hours! -- this episode is quite substantial, since there are so many books that the guys feel are worth mentioning. Some are from popular publishers, some will be released through smaller and more obscure presses. But as always, it's a great mix of titles. So get out your checklists, and listen up! There are so many titles listed on this show that it would be impossible to review them all in the coming months. And in fact, Derek and Andy invite listeners to consider reviewing books for The Comics Alternative's blog. This is a way of covering material that the Two Guys aren't able to get to on their regular review shows. The blog already has an impressive roster of contributors, and if you have a penchant for critical writing and you love comics, then becoming a reviewer for the blog might be for you. And it will helping the guys get to as many of the books highlighted on this show as possible. So drop them a line if you're interested! Wed, 03 Jun 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”We’re all about the twisted” We're in the opening days of June, so that means it's time for another look at the Previews catalog. At the beginning of every month, the Two Guys like to take a gander at the current Previews, flipping through its many pages and highlighting those upcoming releases that really capture their attention. And even if there are comics that neither Derek nor Andy W. plans on getting himself, if they think it's interesting enough for listeners, then they'll mention those titles as well. As with the May Previews show -- which had a running time of over two hours! -- this episode is quite substantial, since there are so many books that the guys feel are worth mentioning. Some are from popular publishers, some will be released through smaller and more obscure presses. But as always, it's a great mix of titles. So get out your checklists, and listen up! There are so many titles listed on this show that it would be impossible to review them all in the coming months. And in fact, Derek and Andy invite listeners to consider reviewing books for The Comics Alternative's blog. This is a way of covering material that the Two Guys aren't able to get to on their regular review shows. The blog already has an impressive roster of contributors, and if you have a penchant for critical writing and you love comics, then becoming a reviewer for the blog might be for you. And it will helping the guys get to as many of the books highlighted on this show as possible. So drop them a line if you're interested! We're in the opening days of June, so that means it's time for another look at the Previews catalog. At the beginning of every month, the Two Guys like to take a gander at the current Previews, flipping through its many pages and highlighting those upcoming releases that really capture their attention. And even if there are comics that neither Derek nor Andy W. plans on getting himself, if they think it's interesting enough for listeners, then they'll mention those titles as well. As with the May Previews show -- which had a running time of over two hours! -- this episode is quite substantial, since there are so many books that the guys feel are worth mentioning. Some are from popular publishers, some will be released through smaller and more obscure presses. But as always, it's a great mix of titles. So get out your checklists, and listen up! There are so many titles listed on this show that it would be impossible to review them all in the coming months. And in fact, Derek and Andy invite listeners to consider reviewing books for The Comics Alternative's blog. This is a way of covering material that the Two Guys aren't able to get to on their regular review shows. The blog already has an impressive roster of contributors, and if you have a penchant for critical writing and you love comics, then becoming a reviewer for the blog might be for you. And it will helping the guys get to as many of the books highlighted on this show as possible. So drop them a line if you're interested!

]]> 7832 no Interviews - Peter Bagge http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews49-Bagge.mp3 While Derek attended this year's Fan Expo Dallas, he had the opportunity to talk with Peter Bagge not once, but twice! On the Saturday of the con Peter was kind enough to sit down for a lengthy interview -- about 30 minutes -- in-between fans, commissions, and signings. Although their back-and-forth was substantial, there were subject matters that they didn't get to cover on that first day. So they decided to follow up with another interview on Sunday. What you'll hear in this podcast episode is an edited result of two-days-worth of recorded conversation at Fan Expo Dallas. Among other topics, Derek asks Peter about the response to 2013's Woman Rebel: The Margaret Sanger Story, and that leads to a discussion of the creator's next project, a graphic biography of Zora Heale Hurston. Peter shares his experiences researching for the book, the politics underlying Hurston's previous biographers, and the challenges of putting the writer's life -- the palatable as well as the problematic -- into comics form. They also discuss Peter's recent work on IDW's Garbage Pail Kids Puketacular and the connections between card collecting, comics, and pornography. In addition, Derek talks with Peter about the release of Sweatshop, a series that was originally published by DC Comics in 2003, and then just recently collected in trade through Fantagraphics. It's the story of a newspaper cartoonist and his disgruntled assistants, and Peter explains that this is a title that he will probably never revisit, especially due to the fact that strip cartooning (at least in newspapers) is, unfortunately, a dying form. And the jury's still out on whether or not Peter will return to one of his most iconic creations, Buddy Bradley. Derek is a huge fan of Hate and the Hate Annual, and he specifically asks Bagge if there's any future for Buddy and Lisa. Although that fact remains uncertain -- as is a return of Guy Krause from 2012's Reset -- what is more assured is a collection of Peter's Founding Father Funnies that will be coming out through Dark Horse Comics in the near future. Peter even shares with Derek news that his Neat Stuff comics will be collected in nice archival editions through Fantagraphics. But the conversation doesn't stop with the comics. They spend a lot of time talking about Peter's love of pop music -- like Derek, he is a big Beach Boys and (especially) Brian Wilson buff -- and especially his work as a musician in The Action Suits, and more recently the band Can You Imagine? In fact, you can hear clips from the band's 2012 CD, Romance!, in this episode. Derek has previously interviewed Peter twice before -- first, at the 2013 HeroesCon  and then for the blog around the release of Woman Rebel -- but this time around, they cover entirely new territory. There's a lot packed into this conversation, so give it a listen. And a great big thanks to Peter Bagge for taking the time and being on the podcast! Tue, 02 Jun 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hate No More While Derek attended this year's Fan Expo Dallas, he had the opportunity to talk with Peter Bagge not once, but twice! On the Saturday of the con Peter was kind enough to sit down for a lengthy interview -- about 30 minutes -- in-between fans, commissions, and signings. Although their back-and-forth was substantial, there were subject matters that they didn't get to cover on that first day. So they decided to follow up with another interview on Sunday. What you'll hear in this podcast episode is an edited result of two-days-worth of recorded conversation at Fan Expo Dallas. Among other topics, Derek asks Peter about the response to 2013's Woman Rebel: The Margaret Sanger Story, and that leads to a discussion of the creator's next project, a graphic biography of Zora Heale Hurston. Peter shares his experiences researching for the book, the politics underlying Hurston's previous biographers, and the challenges of putting the writer's life -- the palatable as well as the problematic -- into comics form. They also discuss Peter's recent work on IDW's Garbage Pail Kids Puketacular and the connections between card collecting, comics, and pornography. In addition, Derek talks with Peter about the release of Sweatshop, a series that was originally published by DC Comics in 2003, and then just recently collected in trade through Fantagraphics. It's the story of a newspaper cartoonist and his disgruntled assistants, and Peter explains that this is a title that he will probably never revisit, especially due to the fact that strip cartooning (at least in newspapers) is, unfortunately, a dying form. And the jury's still out on whether or not Peter will return to one of his most iconic creations, Buddy Bradley. Derek is a huge fan of Hate and the Hate Annual, and he specifically asks Bagge if there's any future for Buddy and Lisa. Although that fact remains uncertain -- as is a return of Guy Krause from 2012's Reset -- what is more assured is a collection of Peter's Founding Father Funnies that will be coming out through Dark Horse Comics in the near future. Peter even shares with Derek news that his Neat Stuff comics will be collected in nice archival editions through Fantagraphics. But the conversation doesn't stop with the comics. They spend a lot of time talking about Peter's love of pop music -- like Derek, he is a big Beach Boys and (especially) Brian Wilson buff -- and especially his work as a musician in The Action Suits, and more recently the band Can You Imagine? In fact, you can hear clips from the band's 2012 CD, Romance!, in this episode. Derek has previously interviewed Peter twice before -- first, at the 2013 HeroesCon  and then for the blog around the release of Woman Rebel -- but this time around, they cover entirely new territory. There's a lot packed into this conversation, so give it a listen. And a great big thanks to Peter Bagge for taking the time and being on the podcast! While Derek attended this year's Fan Expo Dallas, he had the opportunity to talk with Peter Bagge not once, but twice! On the Saturday of the con Peter was kind enough to sit down for a lengthy interview -- about 30 minutes -- in-between fans, commissions, and signings. Although their back-and-forth was substantial, there were subject matters that they didn't get to cover on that first day. So they decided to follow up with another interview on Sunday. What you'll hear in this podcast episode is an edited result of two-days-worth of recorded conversation at Fan Expo Dallas. Among other topics, Derek asks Peter about the response to 2013's Woman Rebel: The Margaret Sanger Story, and that leads to a discussion of the creator's next project, a graphic biography of Zora Heale Hurston. Peter shares his experiences researching for the book, the politics underlying Hurston's previous biographers, and the challenges of putting the writer's life -- the palatable as well as the problematic -- into comics form. They also discuss Peter's recent work on IDW's Garbage Pail Kids Puketacular and the connections between card collecting, comics, and pornography. In addition, Derek talks with Peter about the release of Sweatshop, a series that was originally published by DC Comics in 2003, and then just recently collected in trade through Fantagraphics. It's the story of a newspaper cartoonist and his disgruntled assistants, and Peter explains that this is a title that he will probably never revisit, especially due to the fact that strip cartooning (at least in newspapers) is, unfortunately, a dying form. And the jury's still out on whether or not Peter will return to one of his most iconic creations, Buddy Bradley. Derek is a huge fan of Hate and the Hate Annual, and he specifically asks Bagge if there's any future for Buddy and Lisa. Although that fact remains uncertain -- as is a return of Guy Krause from 2012's Reset -- what is more assured is a collection of Peter's Founding Father Funnies that will be coming out through Dark Horse Comics in the near future. Peter even shares with Derek news that his Neat Stuff comics will be collected in nice archival editions through Fantagraphics. But the conversation doesn't stop with the comics. They spend a lot of time talking about Peter's love of pop music -- like Derek, he is a big Beach Boys and (especially) Brian Wilson buff -- and especially his work as a musician in The Action Suits, and more recently the band Can You Imagine? In fact, you can hear clips from the band's 2012 CD, Romance!, in this episode. Derek has previously interviewed Peter twice before -- first, at the 2013 HeroesCon  and then for the blog around the release of Woman Rebel -- but this time around, they cover entirely new territory. There's a lot packed into this conversation, so give it a listen. And a great big thanks to Peter Bagge for taking the time and being on the podcast!

]]> 4274 no On Location - Talking with Creators at Fan Expo Dallas 2015 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation15.mp3 Fan Expo Dallas was held May 29-31, and this year Derek was there in Artists Alley talking with a variety of creators. Some of those he spoke with are famous names and individuals who have been on the show before. Others were new to him and, and Derek used the opportunity to introduce himself and Comics Alternative listeners to their fascinating works. He begins by talking with two artists who have spoken with him at various cons in the past, Robert Wilson IV and Joe Eisma. The latter shares his experiences having illustrated Bitch Planet #3, the amount of attention that has brought him, and his warm relationship with Kelly Sue DeConnick. Robert also follows up on the success of Knuckleheads, which was released as a book last summer from IDW. Joe Eisma talks not only about his most recent work on Morning Glories, now in its second "season," but also about doing a variant cover for the relaunch of Archie. After that, Derek speaks with two teams of creators whose work he has just discovered. Through Stephen G. Totten and his friend Mike, he learns about the webcomic Angry Cuddles, and how this work (written by Stephen and illustrated by Joseph A. Valero III) has recently become a video podcast. Derek also talks with Mark Schmidt, publisher of Stratum Comics, and his partner, Vince Chuter. Their title, The Threat, is an action comic reminiscent of Heroes placed in a Judge Dredd-type universe. Next, Derek talks with Steve Epting about Velvet -- the second trade has recently been released -- and the kind of fan response he's been getting at the con. Steve shares a few words about working with Ed Brubaker on this creator-owned title as well as their collaboration on Captain America and Winter Soldier. After that, Jemma Young introduces Derek to her webcomic, Children of Eldair, her collaboration with its writer, Rachel A. Oaks, the title's dedicated fanbase, and the challenges of putting out installments on a regular basis. Derek also meets Hector Rodriguez whose El Peso Hero, published through Rio Bravo Comics, is a potent mixture of superhero stories, sociopolitical commentary, and an exploration of race relations on the Southwestern border. Finally, Derek wraps up with Ellen Natalie, whose webcomic Furry Experience provides a glimpse into young adult experiences as they relate to religion, relationships, and coming of age. This was a particularly busy convention, and The Comics Alternative thanks all of these creators for taking the time to share their thoughts and experiences with its listeners. Mon, 01 Jun 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talk from the Floor Fan Expo Dallas was held May 29-31, and this year Derek was there in Artists Alley talking with a variety of creators. Some of those he spoke with are famous names and individuals who have been on the show before. Others were new to him and, and Derek used the opportunity to introduce himself and Comics Alternative listeners to their fascinating works. He begins by talking with two artists who have spoken with him at various cons in the past, Robert Wilson IV and Joe Eisma. The latter shares his experiences having illustrated Bitch Planet #3, the amount of attention that has brought him, and his warm relationship with Kelly Sue DeConnick. Robert also follows up on the success of Knuckleheads, which was released as a book last summer from IDW. Joe Eisma talks not only about his most recent work on Morning Glories, now in its second "season," but also about doing a variant cover for the relaunch of Archie. After that, Derek speaks with two teams of creators whose work he has just discovered. Through Stephen G. Totten and his friend Mike, he learns about the webcomic Angry Cuddles, and how this work (written by Stephen and illustrated by Joseph A. Valero III) has recently become a video podcast. Derek also talks with Mark Schmidt, publisher of Stratum Comics, and his partner, Vince Chuter. Their title, The Threat, is an action comic reminiscent of Heroes placed in a Judge Dredd-type universe. Next, Derek talks with Steve Epting about Velvet -- the second trade has recently been released -- and the kind of fan response he's been getting at the con. Steve shares a few words about working with Ed Brubaker on this creator-owned title as well as their collaboration on Captain America and Winter Soldier. After that, Jemma Young introduces Derek to her webcomic, Children of Eldair, her collaboration with its writer, Rachel A. Oaks, the title's dedicated fanbase, and the challenges of putting out installments on a regular basis. Derek also meets Hector Rodriguez whose El Peso Hero, published through Rio Bravo Comics, is a potent mixture of superhero stories, sociopolitical commentary, and an exploration of race relations on the Southwestern border. Finally, Derek wraps up with Ellen Natalie, whose webcomic Furry Experience provides a glimpse into young adult experiences as they relate to religion, relationships, and coming of age. This was a particularly busy convention, and The Comics Alternative thanks all of these creators for taking the time to share their thoughts and experiences with its listeners. Fan Expo Dallas was held May 29-31, and this year Derek was there in Artists Alley talking with a variety of creators. Some of those he spoke with are famous names and individuals who have been on the show before. Others were new to him and, and Derek used the opportunity to introduce himself and Comics Alternative listeners to their fascinating works. He begins by talking with two artists who have spoken with him at various cons in the past, Robert Wilson IV and Joe Eisma. The latter shares his experiences having illustrated Bitch Planet #3, the amount of attention that has brought him, and his warm relationship with Kelly Sue DeConnick. Robert also follows up on the success of Knuckleheads, which was released as a book last summer from IDW. Joe Eisma talks not only about his most recent work on Morning Glories, now in its second "season," but also about doing a variant cover for the relaunch of Archie. After that, Derek speaks with two teams of creators whose work he has just discovered. Through Stephen G. Totten and his friend Mike, he learns about the webcomic Angry Cuddles, and how this work (written by Stephen and illustrated by Joseph A. Valero III) has recently become a video podcast. Derek also talks with Mark Schmidt, publisher of Stratum Comics, and his partner, Vince Chuter. Their title, The Threat, is an action comic reminiscent of Heroes placed in a Judge Dredd-type universe. Next, Derek talks with Steve Epting about Velvet -- the second trade has recently been released -- and the kind of fan response he's been getting at the con. Steve shares a few words about working with Ed Brubaker on this creator-owned title as well as their collaboration on Captain America and Winter Soldier. After that, Jemma Young introduces Derek to her webcomic, Children of Eldair, her collaboration with its writer, Rachel A. Oaks, the title's dedicated fanbase, and the challenges of putting out installments on a regular basis. Derek also meets Hector Rodriguez whose El Peso Hero, published through Rio Bravo Comics, is a potent mixture of superhero stories, sociopolitical commentary, and an exploration of race relations on the Southwestern border. Finally, Derek wraps up with Ellen Natalie, whose webcomic Furry Experience provides a glimpse into young adult experiences as they relate to religion, relationships, and coming of age. This was a particularly busy convention, and The Comics Alternative thanks all of these creators for taking the time to share their thoughts and experiences with its listeners.

]]> 4715 no Interviews - Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews48-Neely-Keller.mp3 On this interview show, Derek and Andy W. have a fun time talking with Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller. The first trade volume of their series, The Humans, recently came out from Image Comics, and next week the narrative arc will continue with issue #5, in which the simian bikers make their drug run in L.A. Although every issue of The Humans is filled with action and dynamic art, this upcoming installment is particularly energetic, complete with chase scenes, road fights, blown-off faces, pissing on police cars, plenty of explosions, and an abundance of profanity. In fact, as the Two Guys point out, this has to be the most "fucked"-filled episode of The Comics Alternative that the guys have ever recorded. (And of course, it bears the appropriate "explicit" rating in iTunes.) Keenan and Tom cut loose with the conversation, just as their biker gang rides roughshod over 1970s Bakersfield. They discuss the genesis of The Humans, the series' humble beginning as a self-published 0 issue, their relationship with Image Comics, the joys of living and working (literally) right down the street from each other, the kick-ass work of colorist Kristina Collantes, and the creation of a larger Humans "universe," complete with its own soundtrack. You will even hear in this interview original tunes created specifically for The Humans. Tom and Keenan also discuss their larger plans for the series, possible spin-off narratives that flesh out their storyworld, and Humans-branded biker magazines. Although most of the conversation is devoted to the current series, the Two Guys ask their guests about their past works, including Keenan's Force Majeure and Tom's The Blot. Derek is especially interested in talking with Tom about Henry and Glenn Forever and Ever, how he came up with the idea -- not surprisingly, there was a lot of drinking involved -- and the story behind the satanic Hall and Oates. Not only is there a lot of explicitness in this episode, but there's tons of laughing, as well. If you love comics about biker apes, drug use, exploding heads, and blow jobs, then The Humans -- and this interview with Tom and Keenan -- is definitely for you! Fri, 29 May 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A F**k-filled Episode On this interview show, Derek and Andy W. have a fun time talking with Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller. The first trade volume of their series, The Humans, recently came out from Image Comics, and next week the narrative arc will continue with issue #5, in which the simian bikers make their drug run in L.A. Although every issue of The Humans is filled with action and dynamic art, this upcoming installment is particularly energetic, complete with chase scenes, road fights, blown-off faces, pissing on police cars, plenty of explosions, and an abundance of profanity. In fact, as the Two Guys point out, this has to be the most "fucked"-filled episode of The Comics Alternative that the guys have ever recorded. (And of course, it bears the appropriate "explicit" rating in iTunes.) Keenan and Tom cut loose with the conversation, just as their biker gang rides roughshod over 1970s Bakersfield. They discuss the genesis of The Humans, the series' humble beginning as a self-published 0 issue, their relationship with Image Comics, the joys of living and working (literally) right down the street from each other, the kick-ass work of colorist Kristina Collantes, and the creation of a larger Humans "universe," complete with its own soundtrack. You will even hear in this interview original tunes created specifically for The Humans. Tom and Keenan also discuss their larger plans for the series, possible spin-off narratives that flesh out their storyworld, and Humans-branded biker magazines. Although most of the conversation is devoted to the current series, the Two Guys ask their guests about their past works, including Keenan's Force Majeure and Tom's The Blot. Derek is especially interested in talking with Tom about Henry and Glenn Forever and Ever, how he came up with the idea -- not surprisingly, there was a lot of drinking involved -- and the story behind the satanic Hall and Oates. Not only is there a lot of explicitness in this episode, but there's tons of laughing, as well. If you love comics about biker apes, drug use, exploding heads, and blow jobs, then The Humans -- and this interview with Tom and Keenan -- is definitely for you! On this interview show, Derek and Andy W. have a fun time talking with Tom Neely and Keenan Marshall Keller. The first trade volume of their series, The Humans, recently came out from Image Comics, and next week the narrative arc will continue with issue #5, in which the simian bikers make their drug run in L.A. Although every issue of The Humans is filled with action and dynamic art, this upcoming installment is particularly energetic, complete with chase scenes, road fights, blown-off faces, pissing on police cars, plenty of explosions, and an abundance of profanity. In fact, as the Two Guys point out, this has to be the most "fucked"-filled episode of The Comics Alternative that the guys have ever recorded. (And of course, it bears the appropriate "explicit" rating in iTunes.) Keenan and Tom cut loose with the conversation, just as their biker gang rides roughshod over 1970s Bakersfield. They discuss the genesis of The Humans, the series' humble beginning as a self-published 0 issue, their relationship with Image Comics, the joys of living and working (literally) right down the street from each other, the kick-ass work of colorist Kristina Collantes, and the creation of a larger Humans "universe," complete with its own soundtrack. You will even hear in this interview original tunes created specifically for The Humans. Tom and Keenan also discuss their larger plans for the series, possible spin-off narratives that flesh out their storyworld, and Humans-branded biker magazines. Although most of the conversation is devoted to the current series, the Two Guys ask their guests about their past works, including Keenan's Force Majeure and Tom's The Blot. Derek is especially interested in talking with Tom about Henry and Glenn Forever and Ever, how he came up with the idea -- not surprisingly, there was a lot of drinking involved -- and the story behind the satanic Hall and Oates. Not only is there a lot of explicitness in this episode, but there's tons of laughing, as well. If you love comics about biker apes, drug use, exploding heads, and blow jobs, then The Humans -- and this interview with Tom and Keenan -- is definitely for you!

]]> 5552 yes Episode 137 - Reviews of Headspace, You Don’t Say, Lost Property, and Vacancy http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-137.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Andy W. discuss four new titles. They begin with Ryan K. Lindsay, Eric Zawadzki, and Sebastian Piriz's Headspace (IDW Publishing). This was originally an eight-issue digital series published by MonkeyBrain between March 2014 and April 2015. A law enforcement officer, Shane, finds himself in a surreal land with no memory of how he got there nor any idea how to leave. He eventually discovers that he is inside the mind of a violent criminal whose brain is being manipulated by the authorities. As the guys point out, this is a psychological thriller as much as it is an astute exercise in world-building. Next, they take an extensive look at Nate Powell's You Don't Say (Top Shelf), a collection of seventeen short stories published between 2003 and 2013. For readers who appreciate Powell's previous works -- such as Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, The Silence of Our Friends, and the first two volumes of March -- this is a wonderful opportunity to see the development as well as the full range of the creator. The earlier stories, several of which were part of his first Top Shelf book Release Me, demonstrate Powell's autobiographical attempts to capture an artist in transition. But the emerging impact of the writer becomes more apparent in the later works where you can more clearly see some of the characteristics that mark Powell's style, such as the theme of race relations (often set in the South) and the psychological quality of his storytelling. In fact, Derek points out that in many of Powell's work, there is a "dreamy" quality where transitions between scenes and even panels are represented in a fluid, and at times ambiguous, manner, reflecting the way in which memory and fantasy allows us to interpret the world. Both Andy and Derek highlight their favorites in this collection, including "Cakewalk" (written by Rachel Bormann), "Bets Are Off," and the gothic "The Villa at the End of the Road." These collected stories originally appeared in earlier Powell works, in various anthologies, as part of a CD release, and as self-published installments. Together they demonstrate the sheer force of Powell's artistry. Finally, the Two Guys look at two recent releases from Nobrow, Andy Poyiadgi's Lost Property and Jen Lee's Vacancy. These are both part of the publisher's unique 17x23 series, a graphic short-story project established to help young creators present their work in a concise and economic format. Lost Property is a brief tale about missing pieces, the various things we have lost throughout our lives -- both literal and figurative -- and how their rediscovery can help us define who we are. Lee's comic is an anthropomorphic narrative about the costs of freedom. Simon, a young dog, is neglected by his owners, yearns to venture beyond his backyard fence, and then ventures into the woods with a deer and a raccoon, with mixed results. Both of these short works are beautifully produced -- Andy specifically points out Nobrow's distinguishing coloring -- and highly affordable. For a little more than the cost of an ordinary American comic book, you can get a 17x23 publication that is more of a book than a periodical. The guys featured a Publisher Spotlight on Nobrow last year, and there's certainly a reason that they keep coming back to their publications. Wed, 27 May 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Southern Comfort On this episode of The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Andy W. discuss four new titles. They begin with Ryan K. Lindsay, Eric Zawadzki, and Sebastian Piriz's Headspace (IDW Publishing). This was originally an eight-issue digital series published by MonkeyBrain between March 2014 and April 2015. A law enforcement officer, Shane, finds himself in a surreal land with no memory of how he got there nor any idea how to leave. He eventually discovers that he is inside the mind of a violent criminal whose brain is being manipulated by the authorities. As the guys point out, this is a psychological thriller as much as it is an astute exercise in world-building. Next, they take an extensive look at Nate Powell's You Don't Say (Top Shelf), a collection of seventeen short stories published between 2003 and 2013. For readers who appreciate Powell's previous works -- such as Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, The Silence of Our Friends, and the first two volumes of March -- this is a wonderful opportunity to see the development as well as the full range of the creator. The earlier stories, several of which were part of his first Top Shelf book Release Me, demonstrate Powell's autobiographical attempts to capture an artist in transition. But the emerging impact of the writer becomes more apparent in the later works where you can more clearly see some of the characteristics that mark Powell's style, such as the theme of race relations (often set in the South) and the psychological quality of his storytelling. In fact, Derek points out that in many of Powell's work, there is a "dreamy" quality where transitions between scenes and even panels are represented in a fluid, and at times ambiguous, manner, reflecting the way in which memory and fantasy allows us to interpret the world. Both Andy and Derek highlight their favorites in this collection, including "Cakewalk" (written by Rachel Bormann), "Bets Are Off," and the gothic "The Villa at the End of the Road." These collected stories originally appeared in earlier Powell works, in various anthologies, as part of a CD release, and as self-published installments. Together they demonstrate the sheer force of Powell's artistry. Finally, the Two Guys look at two recent releases from Nobrow, Andy Poyiadgi's Lost Property and Jen Lee's Vacancy. These are both part of the publisher's unique 17x23 series, a graphic short-story project established to help young creators present their work in a concise and economic format. Lost Property is a brief tale about missing pieces, the various things we have lost throughout our lives -- both literal and figurative -- and how their rediscovery can help us define who we are. Lee's comic is an anthropomorphic narrative about the costs of freedom. Simon, a young dog, is neglected by his owners, yearns to venture beyond his backyard fence, and then ventures into the woods with a deer and a raccoon, with mixed results. Both of these short works are beautifully produced -- Andy specifically points out Nobrow's distinguishing coloring -- and highly affordable. For a little more than the cost of an ordinary American comic book, you can get a 17x23 publication that is more of a book than a periodical. The guys featured a Publisher Spotlight on Nobrow last year, and there's certainly a reason that they keep coming back to their publications. On this episode of The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Andy W. discuss four new titles. They begin with Ryan K. Lindsay, Eric Zawadzki, and Sebastian Piriz's Headspace (IDW Publishing). This was originally an eight-issue digital series published by MonkeyBrain between March 2014 and April 2015. A law enforcement officer, Shane, finds himself in a surreal land with no memory of how he got there nor any idea how to leave. He eventually discovers that he is inside the mind of a violent criminal whose brain is being manipulated by the authorities. As the guys point out, this is a psychological thriller as much as it is an astute exercise in world-building. Next, they take an extensive look at Nate Powell's You Don't Say (Top Shelf), a collection of seventeen short stories published between 2003 and 2013. For readers who appreciate Powell's previous works -- such as Swallow Me Whole, Any Empire, The Silence of Our Friends, and the first two volumes of March -- this is a wonderful opportunity to see the development as well as the full range of the creator. The earlier stories, several of which were part of his first Top Shelf book Release Me, demonstrate Powell's autobiographical attempts to capture an artist in transition. But the emerging impact of the writer becomes more apparent in the later works where you can more clearly see some of the characteristics that mark Powell's style, such as the theme of race relations (often set in the South) and the psychological quality of his storytelling. In fact, Derek points out that in many of Powell's work, there is a "dreamy" quality where transitions between scenes and even panels are represented in a fluid, and at times ambiguous, manner, reflecting the way in which memory and fantasy allows us to interpret the world. Both Andy and Derek highlight their favorites in this collection, including "Cakewalk" (written by Rachel Bormann), "Bets Are Off," and the gothic "The Villa at the End of the Road." These collected stories originally appeared in earlier Powell works, in various anthologies, as part of a CD release, and as self-published installments. Together they demonstrate the sheer force of Powell's artistry. Finally, the Two Guys look at two recent releases from Nobrow, Andy Poyiadgi's Lost Property and Jen Lee's Vacancy. These are both part of the publisher's unique 17x23 series, a graphic short-story project established to help young creators present their work in a concise and economic format. Lost Property is a brief tale about missing pieces, the various things we have lost throughout our lives -- both literal and figurative -- and how their rediscovery can help us define who we are. Lee's comic is an anthropomorphic narrative about the costs of freedom. Simon, a young dog, is neglected by his owners, yearns to venture beyond his backyard fence, and then ventures into the woods with a deer and a raccoon, with mixed results. Both of these short works are beautifully produced -- Andy specifically points out Nobrow's distinguishing coloring -- and highly affordable. For a little more than the cost of an ordinary American comic book, you can get a 17x23 publication that is more of a book than a periodical. The guys featured a Publisher Spotlight on Nobrow last year, and there's certainly a reason that they keep coming back to their publications.

]]> 6323 no Manga - Reviews of Henshin and Akira http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Manga2.mp3 On this episode of the monthly manga show, Derek and Shea discuss the recently published Henshin, by Ken Niimura (Image Comics), and Katsuhiro Otomo’s classic Akira (Kodansha Comics). They begin with Henshin, a thirteen-story collection from the artist behind I Kill Giants (and written by Joe Kelly). Shea points out that it’s difficult to find much information on Niimura, as most of his work has been published in either Japan or in Spain. But Henshin — which means “transformation” in Japanese —- may be a good introduction to his work. As the guys point out, the stories cover a variety of genres, from crime to cooking to sports to salaryman narratives  There are also four autobiographical shorts interspersed throughout. Neither Shea nor Derek feel that these tales are as successful as the non-autobiographical stories, but they do show a lighter and more personal side of Niimura’s work. The tone in the other nine pieces are more dramatic, and at times tender and even melancholic. All in all, the collection is a multifaceted example of a non-traditional kind of manga. Next, the Two Guys look at a classic manga title, Otomo’s Akira. This series is a challenge to discuss, because it’s a sprawling saga that develops over six collected and thick volumes. But Derek and Shea highlight the premise and significance of the story, contextualizing it within the 1980s and as an example of post-apocalyptic cyberpunk storytelling. They briefly compare the manga to the anime version, pointing out many of the stark differences between the two. Shea emphasizes what he sees as the Western or European storytelling influence on Akira —- indeed, he sees the same in Henshin —- yet at the same time highlights this as a seminal work of manga. This is an ambitious attempt for the guys to cover such a title, and they could easily devote an entire episode to the series. But listeners will come away with a sense of the story, if they’re not already familiar with it, and hear some of the major critical points that define Akira. If you’re interested in manga, this is definitely a series you have to experience. Tue, 26 May 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal O Kaneda On this episode of the monthly manga show, Derek and Shea discuss the recently published Henshin, by Ken Niimura (Image Comics), and Katsuhiro Otomo’s classic Akira (Kodansha Comics). They begin with Henshin, a thirteen-story collection from the artist behind I Kill Giants (and written by Joe Kelly). Shea points out that it’s difficult to find much information on Niimura, as most of his work has been published in either Japan or in Spain. But Henshin — which means “transformation” in Japanese —- may be a good introduction to his work. As the guys point out, the stories cover a variety of genres, from crime to cooking to sports to salaryman narratives  There are also four autobiographical shorts interspersed throughout. Neither Shea nor Derek feel that these tales are as successful as the non-autobiographical stories, but they do show a lighter and more personal side of Niimura’s work. The tone in the other nine pieces are more dramatic, and at times tender and even melancholic. All in all, the collection is a multifaceted example of a non-traditional kind of manga. Next, the Two Guys look at a classic manga title, Otomo’s Akira. This series is a challenge to discuss, because it’s a sprawling saga that develops over six collected and thick volumes. But Derek and Shea highlight the premise and significance of the story, contextualizing it within the 1980s and as an example of post-apocalyptic cyberpunk storytelling. They briefly compare the manga to the anime version, pointing out many of the stark differences between the two. Shea emphasizes what he sees as the Western or European storytelling influence on Akira —- indeed, he sees the same in Henshin —- yet at the same time highlights this as a seminal work of manga. This is an ambitious attempt for the guys to cover such a title, and they could easily devote an entire episode to the series. But listeners will come away with a sense of the story, if they’re not already familiar with it, and hear some of the major critical points that define Akira. If you’re interested in manga, this is definitely a series you have to experience. On this episode of the monthly manga show, Derek and Shea discuss the recently published Henshin, by Ken Niimura (Image Comics), and Katsuhiro Otomo’s classic Akira (Kodansha Comics). They begin with Henshin, a thirteen-story collection from the artist behind I Kill Giants (and written by Joe Kelly). Shea points out that it’s difficult to find much information on Niimura, as most of his work has been published in either Japan or in Spain. But Henshin — which means “transformation” in Japanese —- may be a good introduction to his work. As the guys point out, the stories cover a variety of genres, from crime to cooking to sports to salaryman narratives  There are also four autobiographical shorts interspersed throughout. Neither Shea nor Derek feel that these tales are as successful as the non-autobiographical stories, but they do show a lighter and more personal side of Niimura’s work. The tone in the other nine pieces are more dramatic, and at times tender and even melancholic. All in all, the collection is a multifaceted example of a non-traditional kind of manga. Next, the Two Guys look at a classic manga title, Otomo’s Akira. This series is a challenge to discuss, because it’s a sprawling saga that develops over six collected and thick volumes. But Derek and Shea highlight the premise and significance of the story, contextualizing it within the 1980s and as an example of post-apocalyptic cyberpunk storytelling. They briefly compare the manga to the anime version, pointing out many of the stark differences between the two. Shea emphasizes what he sees as the Western or European storytelling influence on Akira —- indeed, he sees the same in Henshin —- yet at the same time highlights this as a seminal work of manga. This is an ambitious attempt for the guys to cover such a title, and they could easily devote an entire episode to the series. But listeners will come away with a sense of the story, if they’re not already familiar with it, and hear some of the major critical points that define Akira. If you’re interested in manga, this is definitely a series you have to experience.

]]> 5378 no Interviews - Scott McCloud http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews47-McCloud.mp3 Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest on The Comics Alternative the artist who has done more than anyone to help us understand comics, Scott McCloud. He has just concluded an exhausting world tour -- traveling all over the United States and Europe, and then wrapping up at this year's TCAF -- and the Two Guys were able to catch him during a breather and talk with him about his latest book, The Sculptor (First Second). They begin by asking him about the reception of his new graphic novel and the kind of reader reaction he had experienced on the road. Scott shares some of the commentary he received, such as finding the book a quick read as well as questions regarding the story's ending. In fact, the guys spend a bit of time discussing the concluding section of the book -- without really spoiling anything -- and ask Scott about his thoughts on structuring his narrative. He reveals that The Sculptor was a long time in coming and that he's been thinking of the ending almost from the beginning, over five years ago. This leads Derek and Andy to observe that this is a meticulously crafted book, one that demands multiple readings in order to see the various clues and allusions that are buried throughout the text, linking the end to the beginning and revealing a solid narrative cohesion.  The guys also ask Scott to speculate on his current statue as one of comics' preeminent spokespersons. They wonder if his celebrity as "the guy who wrote Understanding Comics" has been eclipsing his reception as a fiction writer. That then becomes a springboard into a fruitful conversation about Scott's career as struggling young fan-turned-artist, the creation of Zot!, the critical reaction to his expository trilogy -- Understanding Comics, Reinventing Comics, and Making Comics -- his prescient advocacy for webcomics, his brief stint on Superman, the writing of The Sculptor, and his current project concerning visual communication. They even discuss Scott's recent work as editor on last year's Best American Comics, and how in many ways it brought him back into an awareness of current comics. Toward the end of the conversation, Scott shares his experiences as a teacher, and he even gives Andy and Derek useful strategies for using comics in the classroom. (Hint: The guys are going to fish out their copies of Shaun Tan's The Arrival.) All in all, this was an incredible interview. Derek and Andy had really wanted to have Scott on the show around the pub date of The Sculptor, but this later post-publication conversation turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Not only are they are able to talk with Scott McCloud about his latest project, but they also get all of the detail surrounding his world tour, his thoughts on the critical response to his book, and how his recent post-publication activities have impacted an already impressive career. This is an interview you cannot miss! Fri, 22 May 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Understanding Scott Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest on The Comics Alternative the artist who has done more than anyone to help us understand comics, Scott McCloud. He has just concluded an exhausting world tour -- traveling all over the United States and Europe, and then wrapping up at this year's TCAF -- and the Two Guys were able to catch him during a breather and talk with him about his latest book, The Sculptor (First Second). They begin by asking him about the reception of his new graphic novel and the kind of reader reaction he had experienced on the road. Scott shares some of the commentary he received, such as finding the book a quick read as well as questions regarding the story's ending. In fact, the guys spend a bit of time discussing the concluding section of the book -- without really spoiling anything -- and ask Scott about his thoughts on structuring his narrative. He reveals that The Sculptor was a long time in coming and that he's been thinking of the ending almost from the beginning, over five years ago. This leads Derek and Andy to observe that this is a meticulously crafted book, one that demands multiple readings in order to see the various clues and allusions that are buried throughout the text, linking the end to the beginning and revealing a solid narrative cohesion.  The guys also ask Scott to speculate on his current statue as one of comics' preeminent spokespersons. They wonder if his celebrity as "the guy who wrote Understanding Comics" has been eclipsing his reception as a fiction writer. That then becomes a springboard into a fruitful conversation about Scott's career as struggling young fan-turned-artist, the creation of Zot!, the critical reaction to his expository trilogy -- Understanding Comics, Reinventing Comics, and Making Comics -- his prescient advocacy for webcomics, his brief stint on Superman, the writing of The Sculptor, and his current project concerning visual communication. They even discuss Scott's recent work as editor on last year's Best American Comics, and how in many ways it brought him back into an awareness of current comics. Toward the end of the conversation, Scott shares his experiences as a teacher, and he even gives Andy and Derek useful strategies for using comics in the classroom. (Hint: The guys are going to fish out their copies of Shaun Tan's The Arrival.) All in all, this was an incredible interview. Derek and Andy had really wanted to have Scott on the show around the pub date of The Sculptor, but this later post-publication conversation turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Not only are they are able to talk with Scott McCloud about his latest project, but they also get all of the detail surrounding his world tour, his thoughts on the critical response to his book, and how his recent post-publication activities have impacted an already impressive career. This is an interview you cannot miss! Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest on The Comics Alternative the artist who has done more than anyone to help us understand comics, Scott McCloud. He has just concluded an exhausting world tour -- traveling all over the United States and Europe, and then wrapping up at this year's TCAF -- and the Two Guys were able to catch him during a breather and talk with him about his latest book, The Sculptor (First Second). They begin by asking him about the reception of his new graphic novel and the kind of reader reaction he had experienced on the road. Scott shares some of the commentary he received, such as finding the book a quick read as well as questions regarding the story's ending. In fact, the guys spend a bit of time discussing the concluding section of the book -- without really spoiling anything -- and ask Scott about his thoughts on structuring his narrative. He reveals that The Sculptor was a long time in coming and that he's been thinking of the ending almost from the beginning, over five years ago. This leads Derek and Andy to observe that this is a meticulously crafted book, one that demands multiple readings in order to see the various clues and allusions that are buried throughout the text, linking the end to the beginning and revealing a solid narrative cohesion.  The guys also ask Scott to speculate on his current statue as one of comics' preeminent spokespersons. They wonder if his celebrity as "the guy who wrote Understanding Comics" has been eclipsing his reception as a fiction writer. That then becomes a springboard into a fruitful conversation about Scott's career as struggling young fan-turned-artist, the creation of Zot!, the critical reaction to his expository trilogy -- Understanding Comics, Reinventing Comics, and Making Comics -- his prescient advocacy for webcomics, his brief stint on Superman, the writing of The Sculptor, and his current project concerning visual communication. They even discuss Scott's recent work as editor on last year's Best American Comics, and how in many ways it brought him back into an awareness of current comics. Toward the end of the conversation, Scott shares his experiences as a teacher, and he even gives Andy and Derek useful strategies for using comics in the classroom. (Hint: The guys are going to fish out their copies of Shaun Tan's The Arrival.) All in all, this was an incredible interview. Derek and Andy had really wanted to have Scott on the show around the pub date of The Sculptor, but this later post-publication conversation turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Not only are they are able to talk with Scott McCloud about his latest project, but they also get all of the detail surrounding his world tour, his thoughts on the critical response to his book, and how his recent post-publication activities have impacted an already impressive career. This is an interview you cannot miss!

]]> 5469 no Episode 136 - A Publisher Spotlight on Conundrum Press http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-136.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs are back with another Publisher Spotlight episode, this time focusing on the spring 2015 releases from Conundrum Press. They begin the show by doing something they've never done before: interviewing the publisher of the press they're about to spotlight. Derek talks with Andy Brown briefly about his founding of Conundrum, its evolution into a comics-only publisher, the many roles he plays at the press, the kind of creators he works with, and a summary of the spring releases and beyond. After that, the guys plunge into a discussion of the five new releases, beginning with Zach Worton's The Disappearance of Charley Butters. This is the first of a trilogy, centering on the discovery of an abandoned shack and the mystery surrounding its former occupant, a solitary artist. As some of the characters learn more about this missing figure, they begin to see themselves and their relationships more clearly. Next, Derek and Andy W. turn to Max de Radiguès's Moose. Despite the guys' (embarrasing) inability to correctly pronounce the Belgium artist's name, they are nonetheless able to grasp the poignancy of his narrative. This is a story about bullying, yet one with dark ethical implications and with no easy answers. After that, the guys turn to Kat Verhoeven's Towerkind. This minicomic-sized book is one of Andy's favorites of the week, and its simple art masks a profound and unsettling tone. Set in Toronto's St. James Town, a densely populated neighborhood of high-rise apartments, the book follows the uncanny interactions of a group of kids with ominous forebodings. The next book, The Adventures of Drippy the Newsboy, Vol. 1: Drippy's Mama, is arguably the most curious of Conundrum's seasonal releases. In it, Vancouver artist and animator Julian Lawrence brings to full story his popular figure from the Drippy Gazette, a free local monthly that Lawrence co-created and edits, but does so within the context of Stephen Crane's 1896 novel, George's Mother. This is the first of three such Drippy books, each based on a Crane narrative (as Andy Brown reveals, the second will reference The Red Badge of Courage). Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Dakota McFadzean's Don’t Get Eaten by Anything: A Collection of "The Dailies" 2011-2013. This is an impressive hardbound collection of McFadzean's The Dailies webcomic that he began back in January 2010 and continues to this day. The strips vary in tone from the autobiographical -- especially the early ones -- to the surreal. Derek is especially excited to discuss this book, since he interviewed Dakota for the podcast last year, who at the time mentioned the upcoming release. For fans of McFadzean's art and his offbeat sense of humor, this is wonderful companion tome to read along with 2013's Other Stories and the Horse You Rode in On. And it's just one of the the many great books that Conundrum Press continues to put out. This is definitely a publisher worth following! Wed, 20 May 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Puzzling Out Conundrum This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs are back with another Publisher Spotlight episode, this time focusing on the spring 2015 releases from Conundrum Press. They begin the show by doing something they've never done before: interviewing the publisher of the press they're about to spotlight. Derek talks with Andy Brown briefly about his founding of Conundrum, its evolution into a comics-only publisher, the many roles he plays at the press, the kind of creators he works with, and a summary of the spring releases and beyond. After that, the guys plunge into a discussion of the five new releases, beginning with Zach Worton's The Disappearance of Charley Butters. This is the first of a trilogy, centering on the discovery of an abandoned shack and the mystery surrounding its former occupant, a solitary artist. As some of the characters learn more about this missing figure, they begin to see themselves and their relationships more clearly. Next, Derek and Andy W. turn to Max de Radiguès's Moose. Despite the guys' (embarrasing) inability to correctly pronounce the Belgium artist's name, they are nonetheless able to grasp the poignancy of his narrative. This is a story about bullying, yet one with dark ethical implications and with no easy answers. After that, the guys turn to Kat Verhoeven's Towerkind. This minicomic-sized book is one of Andy's favorites of the week, and its simple art masks a profound and unsettling tone. Set in Toronto's St. James Town, a densely populated neighborhood of high-rise apartments, the book follows the uncanny interactions of a group of kids with ominous forebodings. The next book, The Adventures of Drippy the Newsboy, Vol. 1: Drippy's Mama, is arguably the most curious of Conundrum's seasonal releases. In it, Vancouver artist and animator Julian Lawrence brings to full story his popular figure from the Drippy Gazette, a free local monthly that Lawrence co-created and edits, but does so within the context of Stephen Crane's 1896 novel, George's Mother. This is the first of three such Drippy books, each based on a Crane narrative (as Andy Brown reveals, the second will reference The Red Badge of Courage). Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Dakota McFadzean's Don’t Get Eaten by Anything: A Collection of "The Dailies" 2011-2013. This is an impressive hardbound collection of McFadzean's The Dailies webcomic that he began back in January 2010 and continues to this day. The strips vary in tone from the autobiographical -- especially the early ones -- to the surreal. Derek is especially excited to discuss this book, since he interviewed Dakota for the podcast last year, who at the time mentioned the upcoming release. For fans of McFadzean's art and his offbeat sense of humor, this is wonderful companion tome to read along with 2013's Other Stories and the Horse You Rode in On. And it's just one of the the many great books that Conundrum Press continues to put out. This is definitely a publisher worth following! This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs are back with another Publisher Spotlight episode, this time focusing on the spring 2015 releases from Conundrum Press. They begin the show by doing something they've never done before: interviewing the publisher of the press they're about to spotlight. Derek talks with Andy Brown briefly about his founding of Conundrum, its evolution into a comics-only publisher, the many roles he plays at the press, the kind of creators he works with, and a summary of the spring releases and beyond. After that, the guys plunge into a discussion of the five new releases, beginning with Zach Worton's The Disappearance of Charley Butters. This is the first of a trilogy, centering on the discovery of an abandoned shack and the mystery surrounding its former occupant, a solitary artist. As some of the characters learn more about this missing figure, they begin to see themselves and their relationships more clearly. Next, Derek and Andy W. turn to Max de Radiguès's Moose. Despite the guys' (embarrasing) inability to correctly pronounce the Belgium artist's name, they are nonetheless able to grasp the poignancy of his narrative. This is a story about bullying, yet one with dark ethical implications and with no easy answers. After that, the guys turn to Kat Verhoeven's Towerkind. This minicomic-sized book is one of Andy's favorites of the week, and its simple art masks a profound and unsettling tone. Set in Toronto's St. James Town, a densely populated neighborhood of high-rise apartments, the book follows the uncanny interactions of a group of kids with ominous forebodings. The next book, The Adventures of Drippy the Newsboy, Vol. 1: Drippy's Mama, is arguably the most curious of Conundrum's seasonal releases. In it, Vancouver artist and animator Julian Lawrence brings to full story his popular figure from the Drippy Gazette, a free local monthly that Lawrence co-created and edits, but does so within the context of Stephen Crane's 1896 novel, George's Mother. This is the first of three such Drippy books, each based on a Crane narrative (as Andy Brown reveals, the second will reference The Red Badge of Courage). Finally, the Two Guys wrap up with Dakota McFadzean's Don’t Get Eaten by Anything: A Collection of "The Dailies" 2011-2013. This is an impressive hardbound collection of McFadzean's The Dailies webcomic that he began back in January 2010 and continues to this day. The strips vary in tone from the autobiographical -- especially the early ones -- to the surreal. Derek is especially excited to discuss this book, since he interviewed Dakota for the podcast last year, who at the time mentioned the upcoming release. For fans of McFadzean's art and his offbeat sense of humor, this is wonderful companion tome to read along with 2013's Other Stories and the Horse You Rode in On. And it's just one of the the many great books that Conundrum Press continues to put out. This is definitely a publisher worth following!

]]> 7589 no On Location - General Comics Talk at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation14.mp3 Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month the topic is open and general comics talk. Anything goes, and over the coarse of the conversation, Derek discovers that anything does go in talking with the shop's customers. Joining him for this free-flowing exchange are regulars Shea, Craig, Matt, and Chris, and the discussion topics are wide-ranging. They begin with a conversation on the relative disappearance of westerns and war comics as a popular genre. Sgt. Rock comes up a lot, of course, as well as Garth Ennis's recent revival of his War Stories series coming out from Avatar Press. And Craig reminds everyone about a title he brought up in the February episode, Max Brooks and Caanan White's The Harlem Hellfighters. Via a reference to one of Derek's favorites, Weird War Tales, the talk shifts to horror and mystery comics and then takes an abrupt shift into Kickstarter territory. This leads to a discussion of the recent shenanigans of Archie Comics in their Kickstarter campaign, and then a brief digression into the concept of variant covers. Webcomics is another topic that comes up, with everyone chiming in on whether or not they read them, as well as the pros and cons of digital delivery. There is a brief conversational tributary into mainstream superhero comics, specifically what's going on with Convergence and Secret Wars, and then they wrap up with a discussion of some of comics everyone has recently read for the very first time (not necessarily brand new titles). These titles include Chuck Palahniuk and Cameron Stewart's Fight Club 2, Cullen Bunn and Taylor Crook's Harrow County, Kelly Thompson and Ross Campbell's Jem and the Holograms, P. Craig Russell and Neil Gaiman's Elric: Stormbringer, Chip Zdarsky and Kagan McLeodand's Kaptara, and various books from Hans Rickheit (the latter are Derek's picks). The chat ends abruptly when the recorder is accidentally shut off (unbeknownst to the guys), but that doesn't happen until the tail end of the conversation. But while the mic is still on, there's a lot of great comics talk, as there usually is at these on-location episodes. Fri, 15 May 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Make War No More Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month the topic is open and general comics talk. Anything goes, and over the coarse of the conversation, Derek discovers that anything does go in talking with the shop's customers. Joining him for this free-flowing exchange are regulars Shea, Craig, Matt, and Chris, and the discussion topics are wide-ranging. They begin with a conversation on the relative disappearance of westerns and war comics as a popular genre. Sgt. Rock comes up a lot, of course, as well as Garth Ennis's recent revival of his War Stories series coming out from Avatar Press. And Craig reminds everyone about a title he brought up in the February episode, Max Brooks and Caanan White's The Harlem Hellfighters. Via a reference to one of Derek's favorites, Weird War Tales, the talk shifts to horror and mystery comics and then takes an abrupt shift into Kickstarter territory. This leads to a discussion of the recent shenanigans of Archie Comics in their Kickstarter campaign, and then a brief digression into the concept of variant covers. Webcomics is another topic that comes up, with everyone chiming in on whether or not they read them, as well as the pros and cons of digital delivery. There is a brief conversational tributary into mainstream superhero comics, specifically what's going on with Convergence and Secret Wars, and then they wrap up with a discussion of some of comics everyone has recently read for the very first time (not necessarily brand new titles). These titles include Chuck Palahniuk and Cameron Stewart's Fight Club 2, Cullen Bunn and Taylor Crook's Harrow County, Kelly Thompson and Ross Campbell's Jem and the Holograms, P. Craig Russell and Neil Gaiman's Elric: Stormbringer, Chip Zdarsky and Kagan McLeodand's Kaptara, and various books from Hans Rickheit (the latter are Derek's picks). The chat ends abruptly when the recorder is accidentally shut off (unbeknownst to the guys), but that doesn't happen until the tail end of the conversation. But while the mic is still on, there's a lot of great comics talk, as there usually is at these on-location episodes. Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month the topic is open and general comics talk. Anything goes, and over the coarse of the conversation, Derek discovers that anything does go in talking with the shop's customers. Joining him for this free-flowing exchange are regulars Shea, Craig, Matt, and Chris, and the discussion topics are wide-ranging. They begin with a conversation on the relative disappearance of westerns and war comics as a popular genre. Sgt. Rock comes up a lot, of course, as well as Garth Ennis's recent revival of his War Stories series coming out from Avatar Press. And Craig reminds everyone about a title he brought up in the February episode, Max Brooks and Caanan White's The Harlem Hellfighters. Via a reference to one of Derek's favorites, Weird War Tales, the talk shifts to horror and mystery comics and then takes an abrupt shift into Kickstarter territory. This leads to a discussion of the recent shenanigans of Archie Comics in their Kickstarter campaign, and then a brief digression into the concept of variant covers. Webcomics is another topic that comes up, with everyone chiming in on whether or not they read them, as well as the pros and cons of digital delivery. There is a brief conversational tributary into mainstream superhero comics, specifically what's going on with Convergence and Secret Wars, and then they wrap up with a discussion of some of comics everyone has recently read for the very first time (not necessarily brand new titles). These titles include Chuck Palahniuk and Cameron Stewart's Fight Club 2, Cullen Bunn and Taylor Crook's Harrow County, Kelly Thompson and Ross Campbell's Jem and the Holograms, P. Craig Russell and Neil Gaiman's Elric: Stormbringer, Chip Zdarsky and Kagan McLeodand's Kaptara, and various books from Hans Rickheit (the latter are Derek's picks). The chat ends abruptly when the recorder is accidentally shut off (unbeknownst to the guys), but that doesn't happen until the tail end of the conversation. But while the mic is still on, there's a lot of great comics talk, as there usually is at these on-location episodes.

]]> 4934 no Episode 135 - Reviews of Exquisite Corpse, Operation Nemesis, and Palookaville 22 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-135.mp3 This week on the their weekly review show, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new books that are definitely worth checking out. They begin with Pénélope Bagieu's Exquisite Corpse from First Second. This may be the first English-language publication for Bagieu (the guys aren't certain about this), and it's a great introduction from one of France's current popular creators. It's a romantic comedy with a sophisticated premise and an unexpected twist at the end. In fact, it's the narrative's quick wrap-up that puzzles the Two Guys. While they both enjoyed the story, they nonetheless read the ending as an undermining -- perhaps a betrayal? -- of character cohesiveness that was established in the first 4/5 of the book. It's almost as if Begieu changed her mind in the final pages of her narrative and wanted to rewrite the way  we should interpret a major character. Still, her art is infectious and works hand-in-hand with the humorous, yet incisive, events that unfold. Next, the guys look at Operation Nemesis: A Story of Genocide and Revenge (Devil's Due), written by Josh Blaylock and with art by Hoyt Silva. This is a historical narrative focusing on the trial of Soghomon Tehlirian, the Armenian expatriate who assassinated Taalat Pasha, the former Minister of the Interior of the Ottoman Empire, in Berlin during the early days of the Weimar Republic. But the trial is merely a scaffolding on which Blaylock constructs his story of the horrific Armenian Genocide of 1915, a slaughter that the Turkish government to this day will not acknowledge. As Andy and Derek point out, the art is a little confusing in places, but the message comes through loud and clear. This true story is an uncomfortable read, and purposefully so, and it brings much-needed attention to a twentieth-century holocaust that is woefully overlooked. Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to the latest volume of Seth's Palookaville (Drawn and Quarterly). Derek has been looking forward to #22 since the last installment in October 2013, but as it always is with Seth's comics, it's well worth the wait. This is Andy's first exposure to Palookaville, and the guys play off of this difference of reading experience: Andy as a Seth novice and Derek as a diehard fan. As with the two previous book versions of Palookaville -- issues #1-#19 of the title was published in comic-book form -- this one is divided into three sections. The first is a continuation of Seth's ongoing narrative, Clyde Fans, which began in Palookaville #10 from 1997. We're well into the fourth part of this story, set in 1975 and focusing on retired salesman Abraham Matchcard, his reclusive brother Simon, and his encounter with his former lover, Alice. But Abe's real relationship is with his past, and Seth is expert at teasing out character through memory, scenic transitions, and inner dialogue. The middle section of the book is a composite of photoessay and comics, focusing on the Crown Barber Shop in Guelph, Ontario, and owned by Seth's wife Tania Van Spyk. Derek is particularly taken with this contribution since his father was a barber, and he grew up working as a shoeshine boy in a similar kind of shop. The third section of Palookaville is the second part of "Nothing Lasts," one of Seth's sketchbook stories that began in the previous volume. This is an autobiographic narrative that carries us through the author's teenage years. As with the previous installment, the comic is profoundly moving with a rich mixture of understanding, melancholy, and wistfulness. As with all of Seth's works, this volume of Palookaville will make you long for the kind of Canadian landscape and atmosphere that only he can deliver. Wed, 13 May 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal O Canada This week on the their weekly review show, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new books that are definitely worth checking out. They begin with Pénélope Bagieu's Exquisite Corpse from First Second. This may be the first English-language publication for Bagieu (the guys aren't certain about this), and it's a great introduction from one of France's current popular creators. It's a romantic comedy with a sophisticated premise and an unexpected twist at the end. In fact, it's the narrative's quick wrap-up that puzzles the Two Guys. While they both enjoyed the story, they nonetheless read the ending as an undermining -- perhaps a betrayal? -- of character cohesiveness that was established in the first 4/5 of the book. It's almost as if Begieu changed her mind in the final pages of her narrative and wanted to rewrite the way  we should interpret a major character. Still, her art is infectious and works hand-in-hand with the humorous, yet incisive, events that unfold. Next, the guys look at Operation Nemesis: A Story of Genocide and Revenge (Devil's Due), written by Josh Blaylock and with art by Hoyt Silva. This is a historical narrative focusing on the trial of Soghomon Tehlirian, the Armenian expatriate who assassinated Taalat Pasha, the former Minister of the Interior of the Ottoman Empire, in Berlin during the early days of the Weimar Republic. But the trial is merely a scaffolding on which Blaylock constructs his story of the horrific Armenian Genocide of 1915, a slaughter that the Turkish government to this day will not acknowledge. As Andy and Derek point out, the art is a little confusing in places, but the message comes through loud and clear. This true story is an uncomfortable read, and purposefully so, and it brings much-needed attention to a twentieth-century holocaust that is woefully overlooked. Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to the latest volume of Seth's Palookaville (Drawn and Quarterly). Derek has been looking forward to #22 since the last installment in October 2013, but as it always is with Seth's comics, it's well worth the wait. This is Andy's first exposure to Palookaville, and the guys play off of this difference of reading experience: Andy as a Seth novice and Derek as a diehard fan. As with the two previous book versions of Palookaville -- issues #1-#19 of the title was published in comic-book form -- this one is divided into three sections. The first is a continuation of Seth's ongoing narrative, Clyde Fans, which began in Palookaville #10 from 1997. We're well into the fourth part of this story, set in 1975 and focusing on retired salesman Abraham Matchcard, his reclusive brother Simon, and his encounter with his former lover, Alice. But Abe's real relationship is with his past, and Seth is expert at teasing out character through memory, scenic transitions, and inner dialogue. The middle section of the book is a composite of photoessay and comics, focusing on the Crown Barber Shop in Guelph, Ontario, and owned by Seth's wife Tania Van Spyk. Derek is particularly taken with this contribution since his father was a barber, and he grew up working as a shoeshine boy in a similar kind of shop. The third section of Palookaville is the second part of "Nothing Lasts," one of Seth's sketchbook stories that began in the previous volume. This is an autobiographic narrative that carries us through the author's teenage years. As with the previous installment, the comic is profoundly moving with a rich mixture of understanding, melancholy, and wistfulness. As with all of Seth's works, this volume of Palookaville will make you long for the kind of Canadian landscape and atmosphere that only he can deliver. This week on the their weekly review show, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new books that are definitely worth checking out. They begin with Pénélope Bagieu's Exquisite Corpse from First Second. This may be the first English-language publication for Bagieu (the guys aren't certain about this), and it's a great introduction from one of France's current popular creators. It's a romantic comedy with a sophisticated premise and an unexpected twist at the end. In fact, it's the narrative's quick wrap-up that puzzles the Two Guys. While they both enjoyed the story, they nonetheless read the ending as an undermining -- perhaps a betrayal? -- of character cohesiveness that was established in the first 4/5 of the book. It's almost as if Begieu changed her mind in the final pages of her narrative and wanted to rewrite the way  we should interpret a major character. Still, her art is infectious and works hand-in-hand with the humorous, yet incisive, events that unfold. Next, the guys look at Operation Nemesis: A Story of Genocide and Revenge (Devil's Due), written by Josh Blaylock and with art by Hoyt Silva. This is a historical narrative focusing on the trial of Soghomon Tehlirian, the Armenian expatriate who assassinated Taalat Pasha, the former Minister of the Interior of the Ottoman Empire, in Berlin during the early days of the Weimar Republic. But the trial is merely a scaffolding on which Blaylock constructs his story of the horrific Armenian Genocide of 1915, a slaughter that the Turkish government to this day will not acknowledge. As Andy and Derek point out, the art is a little confusing in places, but the message comes through loud and clear. This true story is an uncomfortable read, and purposefully so, and it brings much-needed attention to a twentieth-century holocaust that is woefully overlooked. Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs turn to the latest volume of Seth's Palookaville (Drawn and Quarterly). Derek has been looking forward to #22 since the last installment in October 2013, but as it always is with Seth's comics, it's well worth the wait. This is Andy's first exposure to Palookaville, and the guys play off of this difference of reading experience: Andy as a Seth novice and Derek as a diehard fan. As with the two previous book versions of Palookaville -- issues #1-#19 of the title was published in comic-book form -- this one is divided into three sections. The first is a continuation of Seth's ongoing narrative, Clyde Fans, which began in Palookaville #10 from 1997. We're well into the fourth part of this story, set in 1975 and focusing on retired salesman Abraham Matchcard, his reclusive brother Simon, and his encounter with his former lover, Alice. But Abe's real relationship is with his past, and Seth is expert at teasing out character through memory, scenic transitions, and inner dialogue. The middle section of the book is a composite of photoessay and comics, focusing on the Crown Barber Shop in Guelph, Ontario, and owned by Seth's wife Tania Van Spyk. Derek is particularly taken with this contribution since his father was a barber, and he grew up working as a shoeshine boy in a similar kind of shop. The third section of Palookaville is the second part of "Nothing Lasts," one of Seth's sketchbook stories that began in the previous volume. This is an autobiographic narrative that carries us through the author's teenage years. As with the previous installment, the comic is profoundly moving with a rich mixture of understanding, melancholy, and wistfulness. As with all of Seth's works, this volume of Palookaville will make you long for the kind of Canadian landscape and atmosphere that only he can deliver.

]]> 6464 no Webcomics - Reviews of The Fox Sister, Derelict, and The Situation http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics6.mp3 It's time for another episode in The Comics Alternative's monthly webcomics series, and for May the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three must-read titles. They begin as they usually do by looking at two current and ongoing webcomics, and this time they're Christina Strain and Jayd Aït-Kaci's The Fox Sister and Ben Fleuter's Derelict. Both of these began in 2011, and even though the intentions were to update them weekly, the creators of these titles have had to pause occasionally or slow down the frequencies of their narrative installments. So with each, we are still in the middle of the story four years into things. But that's OK, because both are engaging narratives that are worth the wait. The Fox Sister revolves around Yun Hee, a young South Korean woman who's family has been the victim of a kumiho, the legendary nine-tailed fox who assumes the shape of a beautiful woman -- in this case, Yun Hee's older sister -- to seduce and murder young men. While hunting down the kumiho,  the protagonist befriends a young American missionary, and in this way Strain injects both romance and culture-clash twists into her tale of horror. Yet while The Fox Sister is set in 1960s Korea, Fleuter's Derelict is a post-apocalytic -- or at least some kind of post-tragedy -- narrative where the world we may recognize is infused by gargoyle creatures and fantastic technology. As the guys point out, it's not that easy to describe Derelict, in that the story can be confusing at times, and there are several segments where it's difficult to tease out the action. Derek highlights one of those points in "Book One: Deluge" where it's unclear if there's a flashback, a series of flashbacks, a psychological alter-state, or what. Andy agrees, but he firmly believes that the story's momentum, along with Fleuter's compelling art, more than compensates for the momentary confusion. It's the kind of webcomic that, while ambiguous at times, drives you forward because you want to be immersed deeper into its storyworld. Finally, the Two Guys turn to their already completed webcomic for the month, Jeff VanderMeer and Eric Orchard's The Situation. Released on the website of Tor Books, it's a fantastical story about interpersonal relations in the workplace. Yet it's more like something you'd find from Terry Gilliam than you would from watching The Office. Andy is a big fan of VanderMeer's prose fiction, and he points out that this is great demonstration of the author's skills at world-building. This is a short narrative, yet one that packs a big punch in its ability to literalize the metaphoric. And with Orchard's art, it's certainly the most visually striking webcomic of this month's selections. Fri, 08 May 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Foxy Comics It's time for another episode in The Comics Alternative's monthly webcomics series, and for May the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three must-read titles. They begin as they usually do by looking at two current and ongoing webcomics, and this time they're Christina Strain and Jayd Aït-Kaci's The Fox Sister and Ben Fleuter's Derelict. Both of these began in 2011, and even though the intentions were to update them weekly, the creators of these titles have had to pause occasionally or slow down the frequencies of their narrative installments. So with each, we are still in the middle of the story four years into things. But that's OK, because both are engaging narratives that are worth the wait. The Fox Sister revolves around Yun Hee, a young South Korean woman who's family has been the victim of a kumiho, the legendary nine-tailed fox who assumes the shape of a beautiful woman -- in this case, Yun Hee's older sister -- to seduce and murder young men. While hunting down the kumiho,  the protagonist befriends a young American missionary, and in this way Strain injects both romance and culture-clash twists into her tale of horror. Yet while The Fox Sister is set in 1960s Korea, Fleuter's Derelict is a post-apocalytic -- or at least some kind of post-tragedy -- narrative where the world we may recognize is infused by gargoyle creatures and fantastic technology. As the guys point out, it's not that easy to describe Derelict, in that the story can be confusing at times, and there are several segments where it's difficult to tease out the action. Derek highlights one of those points in "Book One: Deluge" where it's unclear if there's a flashback, a series of flashbacks, a psychological alter-state, or what. Andy agrees, but he firmly believes that the story's momentum, along with Fleuter's compelling art, more than compensates for the momentary confusion. It's the kind of webcomic that, while ambiguous at times, drives you forward because you want to be immersed deeper into its storyworld. Finally, the Two Guys turn to their already completed webcomic for the month, Jeff VanderMeer and Eric Orchard's The Situation. Released on the website of Tor Books, it's a fantastical story about interpersonal relations in the workplace. Yet it's more like something you'd find from Terry Gilliam than you would from watching The Office. Andy is a big fan of VanderMeer's prose fiction, and he points out that this is great demonstration of the author's skills at world-building. This is a short narrative, yet one that packs a big punch in its ability to literalize the metaphoric. And with Orchard's art, it's certainly the most visually striking webcomic of this month's selections. It's time for another episode in The Comics Alternative's monthly webcomics series, and for May the Two Guys with PhDs discuss three must-read titles. They begin as they usually do by looking at two current and ongoing webcomics, and this time they're Christina Strain and Jayd Aït-Kaci's The Fox Sister and Ben Fleuter's Derelict. Both of these began in 2011, and even though the intentions were to update them weekly, the creators of these titles have had to pause occasionally or slow down the frequencies of their narrative installments. So with each, we are still in the middle of the story four years into things. But that's OK, because both are engaging narratives that are worth the wait. The Fox Sister revolves around Yun Hee, a young South Korean woman who's family has been the victim of a kumiho, the legendary nine-tailed fox who assumes the shape of a beautiful woman -- in this case, Yun Hee's older sister -- to seduce and murder young men. While hunting down the kumiho,  the protagonist befriends a young American missionary, and in this way Strain injects both romance and culture-clash twists into her tale of horror. Yet while The Fox Sister is set in 1960s Korea, Fleuter's Derelict is a post-apocalytic -- or at least some kind of post-tragedy -- narrative where the world we may recognize is infused by gargoyle creatures and fantastic technology. As the guys point out, it's not that easy to describe Derelict, in that the story can be confusing at times, and there are several segments where it's difficult to tease out the action. Derek highlights one of those points in "Book One: Deluge" where it's unclear if there's a flashback, a series of flashbacks, a psychological alter-state, or what. Andy agrees, but he firmly believes that the story's momentum, along with Fleuter's compelling art, more than compensates for the momentary confusion. It's the kind of webcomic that, while ambiguous at times, drives you forward because you want to be immersed deeper into its storyworld. Finally, the Two Guys turn to their already completed webcomic for the month, Jeff VanderMeer and Eric Orchard's The Situation. Released on the website of Tor Books, it's a fantastical story about interpersonal relations in the workplace. Yet it's more like something you'd find from Terry Gilliam than you would from watching The Office. Andy is a big fan of VanderMeer's prose fiction, and he points out that this is great demonstration of the author's skills at world-building. This is a short narrative, yet one that packs a big punch in its ability to literalize the metaphoric. And with Orchard's art, it's certainly the most visually striking webcomic of this month's selections.

]]> 5672 no Episode 134 - The May Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-134.mp3 It’s the beginning of May, so that means it’s time for another Previews show. As they do every month, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics carefully go through the latest Previews catalog highlighting many of the upcoming titles that catch their interests and are worth checking out. As Derek and Andy W. point out, this particular issue of the catalog is chock-full of intriguing solicitations, so much so that this turns out to be one of the longest Previews episodes the guys have ever discussed. As a result, this episode of the podcast goes chunky style! The fun begins with a brief recount of FCBD 2015, where the guys share some of their experiences last weekend. Derek grabbed a lot of great FCBD titles. Andy couldn’t get inside his crowded local shop, so instead he stocked up on great deals in the bins outside his shop. Then they get into the meat of the show, talking about the many solicit that grabbed their attention this month. And of course there are the usual tangents, unique observations, and all-around camaraderie. There is a lot packed into this episode of the podcast, so stick around and enjoy every fun-filled nougaty bite! Wed, 06 May 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Comics, Chunky Style It’s the beginning of May, so that means it’s time for another Previews show. As they do every month, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics carefully go through the latest Previews catalog highlighting many of the upcoming titles that catch their interests and are worth checking out. As Derek and Andy W. point out, this particular issue of the catalog is chock-full of intriguing solicitations, so much so that this turns out to be one of the longest Previews episodes the guys have ever discussed. As a result, this episode of the podcast goes chunky style! The fun begins with a brief recount of FCBD 2015, where the guys share some of their experiences last weekend. Derek grabbed a lot of great FCBD titles. Andy couldn’t get inside his crowded local shop, so instead he stocked up on great deals in the bins outside his shop. Then they get into the meat of the show, talking about the many solicit that grabbed their attention this month. And of course there are the usual tangents, unique observations, and all-around camaraderie. There is a lot packed into this episode of the podcast, so stick around and enjoy every fun-filled nougaty bite! It’s the beginning of May, so that means it’s time for another Previews show. As they do every month, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics carefully go through the latest Previews catalog highlighting many of the upcoming titles that catch their interests and are worth checking out. As Derek and Andy W. point out, this particular issue of the catalog is chock-full of intriguing solicitations, so much so that this turns out to be one of the longest Previews episodes the guys have ever discussed. As a result, this episode of the podcast goes chunky style! The fun begins with a brief recount of FCBD 2015, where the guys share some of their experiences last weekend. Derek grabbed a lot of great FCBD titles. Andy couldn’t get inside his crowded local shop, so instead he stocked up on great deals in the bins outside his shop. Then they get into the meat of the show, talking about the many solicit that grabbed their attention this month. And of course there are the usual tangents, unique observations, and all-around camaraderie. There is a lot packed into this episode of the podcast, so stick around and enjoy every fun-filled nougaty bite!

]]> 8532 no On Location - FCBD 2015 at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation13.mp3 or Free Comic Book Day, Derek visits his local comic book shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. There he talks with a variety of customers -- many of whom have been on the shop before, some who have not -- as well as creators featuring their works at the shop. Once such creator is Hunter S. Zombie, the writer of Stillborn: The First Zombie. He talks with Derek about his first book, his current work on the second, his relationship with and support of George Romero, and the travails of working the local con circuit. He also joins in the conversation with the shop customers, and the topics there turn to the new Avengers movie (hot on everyone's mind), the new Daredevil series from Netflix, and the links between movie/TV fans and comics readers. More to the point, everyone discusses what FCBD titles they especially wanted to pick up, and why. Several mentioned Marvel's Secret Wars offering as well as the all-Spanish The Uncanny Inhumans. Others focused on Dark Horse's Fight Club/Goon issue, Dynamite's Bob's Burgers, Th3rd World Studio's The Stuff of Legend/Thanatos Diver, Kodansha's Attack on Titans, and VIZ Media's JoJo's Bizarre Adventures. There wasn't much love for DC's Divergence, unfortunately. And Derek shares some of his favorites from this year, including the CBLDF Defend Comics issue (with a new Shadow Hero story from Gene Luen Yang and Sonny Lew), Beguiling Books's Comics Festival! 2015, Archie's Dark Circle Comics, and Fantagraphics' Hip Hop Family Tree/Cosplayers double-shot. As always, there's a lot to discuss with the guys at the shop, and FCBD infuses the conversation with even more juice. Listen to the show and experience this annual event through the wonders of podcasting! Mon, 04 May 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Free Is Good or Free Comic Book Day, Derek visits his local comic book shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. There he talks with a variety of customers -- many of whom have been on the shop before, some who have not -- as well as creators featuring their works at the shop. Once such creator is Hunter S. Zombie, the writer of Stillborn: The First Zombie. He talks with Derek about his first book, his current work on the second, his relationship with and support of George Romero, and the travails of working the local con circuit. He also joins in the conversation with the shop customers, and the topics there turn to the new Avengers movie (hot on everyone's mind), the new Daredevil series from Netflix, and the links between movie/TV fans and comics readers. More to the point, everyone discusses what FCBD titles they especially wanted to pick up, and why. Several mentioned Marvel's Secret Wars offering as well as the all-Spanish The Uncanny Inhumans. Others focused on Dark Horse's Fight Club/Goon issue, Dynamite's Bob's Burgers, Th3rd World Studio's The Stuff of Legend/Thanatos Diver, Kodansha's Attack on Titans, and VIZ Media's JoJo's Bizarre Adventures. There wasn't much love for DC's Divergence, unfortunately. And Derek shares some of his favorites from this year, including the CBLDF Defend Comics issue (with a new Shadow Hero story from Gene Luen Yang and Sonny Lew), Beguiling Books's Comics Festival! 2015, Archie's Dark Circle Comics, and Fantagraphics' Hip Hop Family Tree/Cosplayers double-shot. As always, there's a lot to discuss with the guys at the shop, and FCBD infuses the conversation with even more juice. Listen to the show and experience this annual event through the wonders of podcasting! or Free Comic Book Day, Derek visits his local comic book shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. There he talks with a variety of customers -- many of whom have been on the shop before, some who have not -- as well as creators featuring their works at the shop. Once such creator is Hunter S. Zombie, the writer of Stillborn: The First Zombie. He talks with Derek about his first book, his current work on the second, his relationship with and support of George Romero, and the travails of working the local con circuit. He also joins in the conversation with the shop customers, and the topics there turn to the new Avengers movie (hot on everyone's mind), the new Daredevil series from Netflix, and the links between movie/TV fans and comics readers. More to the point, everyone discusses what FCBD titles they especially wanted to pick up, and why. Several mentioned Marvel's Secret Wars offering as well as the all-Spanish The Uncanny Inhumans. Others focused on Dark Horse's Fight Club/Goon issue, Dynamite's Bob's Burgers, Th3rd World Studio's The Stuff of Legend/Thanatos Diver, Kodansha's Attack on Titans, and VIZ Media's JoJo's Bizarre Adventures. There wasn't much love for DC's Divergence, unfortunately. And Derek shares some of his favorites from this year, including the CBLDF Defend Comics issue (with a new Shadow Hero story from Gene Luen Yang and Sonny Lew), Beguiling Books's Comics Festival! 2015, Archie's Dark Circle Comics, and Fantagraphics' Hip Hop Family Tree/Cosplayers double-shot. As always, there's a lot to discuss with the guys at the shop, and FCBD infuses the conversation with even more juice. Listen to the show and experience this annual event through the wonders of podcasting!

]]> 5342 yes Special - A Discussion on the 2015 Eisner Award Nominations http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special5.mp3 It's a semi-tradition that when the Eisner Award nominations are announced, Derek and Andy are there to discuss them. So on this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the guys get together to deliberate over this year's nominees, what kind of patterns they discern, and what surprise choices there may be. Joining them on the show is noted comics journalist and former Eisner Award-winner, Tom Spurgeon. Together they look over the list of nominees that was released just last week and try to figure out what is going on with the choices. They begin by looking at the bigger picture, giving their takes on any possible direction or pattern coming from this year's judges. Both Andy and Derek comment on the fact that both DC and Marvel -- and mainstream superhero comics, in particular -- seem to be getting slightly more love than they have in recent years, with properties such as Ms. Marvel, Rocket Raccoon, Grant Morrison's Multiversity, and various Batman and Spider-Man titles getting the nod. Tom is pleased with some heavy hitters, such as Sergio Aragonés and Charles Burns, who are up for awards, yet at the same time he's glad that there are brand-new faces that could shake up some of the stolid categories. The guys also note that many of the nominees have been covered on The Comics Alternative podcast and blog, wondering if the creators appreciate the fact that they're benefiting from what Andy has called the "Comics Alternative bump." In fact, every single entry in the Best Graphic Album - New category was reviewed on either the podcast or blog over the past year! Even though he has been a past recipient of the prize, Tom wonders if there's any logic to having a Best Comics-Related Periodical/Journalism, since, it seems to him, it's an award for creators giving a prize to someone who merely watches the medium. It would be like the Oscars giving an award to Entertainment Weekly, Vanity Fair, or IMDB for their reporting. Derek tacks in a completely different direction, uncomfortable with the Eisners lumping all forms of media together and wondering if perhaps they should break up the periodical/journalism award into at least a couple of different categories. The guys also observe some notable absences from this year's selection. For example, and unlike previous years, Dark Horse Presents is nowhere to be found on the list. And why is something like Superior Foes of Spider-Man nominated in the Best Humor Publication category while unique and intelligently funny titles such as God Hates Astronauts, Punks: The Comic, and Eel Mansions are not? And then there are the kinds of discussions that have been coming up on the podcast in years past, such as issues in defining the Best Publications for Teens category, the growing presence of webcomics on the list, possible trends in the Best Scholarly/Academic Work category, and the juggernaut presence of Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples. There is a lot to pick through in this year's nominations, the good as well as the not-so-good, and the Two Guys with PhDs are happy that Tom Spurgeon could join them to share in the conversation. Fri, 01 May 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal And the Nominees Are... It's a semi-tradition that when the Eisner Award nominations are announced, Derek and Andy are there to discuss them. So on this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the guys get together to deliberate over this year's nominees, what kind of patterns they discern, and what surprise choices there may be. Joining them on the show is noted comics journalist and former Eisner Award-winner, Tom Spurgeon. Together they look over the list of nominees that was released just last week and try to figure out what is going on with the choices. They begin by looking at the bigger picture, giving their takes on any possible direction or pattern coming from this year's judges. Both Andy and Derek comment on the fact that both DC and Marvel -- and mainstream superhero comics, in particular -- seem to be getting slightly more love than they have in recent years, with properties such as Ms. Marvel, Rocket Raccoon, Grant Morrison's Multiversity, and various Batman and Spider-Man titles getting the nod. Tom is pleased with some heavy hitters, such as Sergio Aragonés and Charles Burns, who are up for awards, yet at the same time he's glad that there are brand-new faces that could shake up some of the stolid categories. The guys also note that many of the nominees have been covered on The Comics Alternative podcast and blog, wondering if the creators appreciate the fact that they're benefiting from what Andy has called the "Comics Alternative bump." In fact, every single entry in the Best Graphic Album - New category was reviewed on either the podcast or blog over the past year! Even though he has been a past recipient of the prize, Tom wonders if there's any logic to having a Best Comics-Related Periodical/Journalism, since, it seems to him, it's an award for creators giving a prize to someone who merely watches the medium. It would be like the Oscars giving an award to Entertainment Weekly, Vanity Fair, or IMDB for their reporting. Derek tacks in a completely different direction, uncomfortable with the Eisners lumping all forms of media together and wondering if perhaps they should break up the periodical/journalism award into at least a couple of different categories. The guys also observe some notable absences from this year's selection. For example, and unlike previous years, Dark Horse Presents is nowhere to be found on the list. And why is something like Superior Foes of Spider-Man nominated in the Best Humor Publication category while unique and intelligently funny titles such as God Hates Astronauts, Punks: The Comic, and Eel Mansions are not? And then there are the kinds of discussions that have been coming up on the podcast in years past, such as issues in defining the Best Publications for Teens category, the growing presence of webcomics on the list, possible trends in the Best Scholarly/Academic Work category, and the juggernaut presence of Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples. There is a lot to pick through in this year's nominations, the good as well as the not-so-good, and the Two Guys with PhDs are happy that Tom Spurgeon could join them to share in the conversation. It's a semi-tradition that when the Eisner Award nominations are announced, Derek and Andy are there to discuss them. So on this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the guys get together to deliberate over this year's nominees, what kind of patterns they discern, and what surprise choices there may be. Joining them on the show is noted comics journalist and former Eisner Award-winner, Tom Spurgeon. Together they look over the list of nominees that was released just last week and try to figure out what is going on with the choices. They begin by looking at the bigger picture, giving their takes on any possible direction or pattern coming from this year's judges. Both Andy and Derek comment on the fact that both DC and Marvel -- and mainstream superhero comics, in particular -- seem to be getting slightly more love than they have in recent years, with properties such as Ms. Marvel, Rocket Raccoon, Grant Morrison's Multiversity, and various Batman and Spider-Man titles getting the nod. Tom is pleased with some heavy hitters, such as Sergio Aragonés and Charles Burns, who are up for awards, yet at the same time he's glad that there are brand-new faces that could shake up some of the stolid categories. The guys also note that many of the nominees have been covered on The Comics Alternative podcast and blog, wondering if the creators appreciate the fact that they're benefiting from what Andy has called the "Comics Alternative bump." In fact, every single entry in the Best Graphic Album - New category was reviewed on either the podcast or blog over the past year! Even though he has been a past recipient of the prize, Tom wonders if there's any logic to having a Best Comics-Related Periodical/Journalism, since, it seems to him, it's an award for creators giving a prize to someone who merely watches the medium. It would be like the Oscars giving an award to Entertainment Weekly, Vanity Fair, or IMDB for their reporting. Derek tacks in a completely different direction, uncomfortable with the Eisners lumping all forms of media together and wondering if perhaps they should break up the periodical/journalism award into at least a couple of different categories. The guys also observe some notable absences from this year's selection. For example, and unlike previous years, Dark Horse Presents is nowhere to be found on the list. And why is something like Superior Foes of Spider-Man nominated in the Best Humor Publication category while unique and intelligently funny titles such as God Hates Astronauts, Punks: The Comic, and Eel Mansions are not? And then there are the kinds of discussions that have been coming up on the podcast in years past, such as issues in defining the Best Publications for Teens category, the growing presence of webcomics on the list, possible trends in the Best Scholarly/Academic Work category, and the juggernaut presence of Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples. There is a lot to pick through in this year's nominations, the good as well as the not-so-good, and the Two Guys with PhDs are happy that Tom Spurgeon could join them to share in the conversation.

]]> 4625 no Manga - Reviews of Gyo and Satoshi Kon’s Opus http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Manga1.mp3 Beginning in April, The Comics Alternative will be presenting a new monthly show devoted exclusively to manga. Derek will be joined by Shea Hennum, a manga aficionado and longtime friend of the podcast, to discuss both new and older titles. In this inaugural episode, Shea and Derek begin by laying out their agenda and describing the format of the show. Around the last half of every month, they will discuss two manga titles, one of which will in some way be new. (The guys define "new" as a first-time publication, a new translation, an updated edition of an older volume, or a new collection of previously published individual volumes.) This month, Derek and Shea discuss Junji Ito's Gyo -- which is seeing brand new 2-in-1 deluxe edition from VIZ Media  -- and Satoshi Kon's Opus, which came out a few months ago from Dark Horse. Before they get to the titles, though, the guys first define what they mean by "manga," contextualizing it as both a medium and a style. They also address common and essentializing misconceptions of manga, introducing forms that are far different from the kind of manga most popularly known in this country (e.g., Naruto, Bleach, and Fruits Basket). In fact, they predict that the vast majority of what they'll be discussing on the monthly shows are titles that most American fans of manga will not immediately recognize. Shea and Derek then recommend a few manga guides or introductory critical works that listeners might find useful. But after all of the preliminary comments and explanations, the guys get down to the nitty gritty of the show: discussing specific manga titles. They begin with Gyo, emphasizing its disturbing tone and sheer creepiness. Jinji Ito is a master of the horror genre, as is evidenced by earlier works, Tomie and Uzumaki, and in Gyo the terror comes from a gaseous stench and fish on mechanical legs. At times Ito stretches credibility by taking his narrative close to the extreme, but he seems to always pull back just before venturing into the ridiculous. In fact, when reading Gyo Derek kept thinking of Sharknado and other outlandish Syfy over-the-top movies, although not making the association in a negative way. Jinji Ito is a much more intelligent, and adept, storyteller than that. Next, they focus on Satoshi Kon's Opus. Of the two titles discussed this month, this is the one that really captures the guys' admiration. Primarily known for his anime Perfect Blue, Paranoia Agent, Tokyo Godfathers, and Paprika, Satoshi Kon began his career as a manga artist, and Shea points out that this work goes a long way in defining the artist's general approach to storytelling. Indeed, Opus is all about creators and their relationships with, and responsibilities to, their creations. It is a metafictional narrative where the protagonist, a manga artist by the name of Chikara Nagai, plunges into his own created storyworld and is seen as a god-like figure by his characters. But some of the players in his story attempt to wrench control of their own destinies, creating an almost dizzying interaction between "reality" and "fiction." As Derek points out, fans of Grant Morrison will love what Satoshi Kon does in Opus. And although the book was ultimately incomplete at the time of the artist's death in 2010, the editors of this edition include an unfinished final chapter that, for all practical purposes, wraps things up as best as possible. All in all, this is an exciting first outing for Shea and Derek in their attempt to immerse listeners into the fascinating world of manga. Thu, 30 Apr 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Comics by Any Other Name Beginning in April, The Comics Alternative will be presenting a new monthly show devoted exclusively to manga. Derek will be joined by Shea Hennum, a manga aficionado and longtime friend of the podcast, to discuss both new and older titles. In this inaugural episode, Shea and Derek begin by laying out their agenda and describing the format of the show. Around the last half of every month, they will discuss two manga titles, one of which will in some way be new. (The guys define "new" as a first-time publication, a new translation, an updated edition of an older volume, or a new collection of previously published individual volumes.) This month, Derek and Shea discuss Junji Ito's Gyo -- which is seeing brand new 2-in-1 deluxe edition from VIZ Media  -- and Satoshi Kon's Opus, which came out a few months ago from Dark Horse. Before they get to the titles, though, the guys first define what they mean by "manga," contextualizing it as both a medium and a style. They also address common and essentializing misconceptions of manga, introducing forms that are far different from the kind of manga most popularly known in this country (e.g., Naruto, Bleach, and Fruits Basket). In fact, they predict that the vast majority of what they'll be discussing on the monthly shows are titles that most American fans of manga will not immediately recognize. Shea and Derek then recommend a few manga guides or introductory critical works that listeners might find useful. But after all of the preliminary comments and explanations, the guys get down to the nitty gritty of the show: discussing specific manga titles. They begin with Gyo, emphasizing its disturbing tone and sheer creepiness. Jinji Ito is a master of the horror genre, as is evidenced by earlier works, Tomie and Uzumaki, and in Gyo the terror comes from a gaseous stench and fish on mechanical legs. At times Ito stretches credibility by taking his narrative close to the extreme, but he seems to always pull back just before venturing into the ridiculous. In fact, when reading Gyo Derek kept thinking of Sharknado and other outlandish Syfy over-the-top movies, although not making the association in a negative way. Jinji Ito is a much more intelligent, and adept, storyteller than that. Next, they focus on Satoshi Kon's Opus. Of the two titles discussed this month, this is the one that really captures the guys' admiration. Primarily known for his anime Perfect Blue, Paranoia Agent, Tokyo Godfathers, and Paprika, Satoshi Kon began his career as a manga artist, and Shea points out that this work goes a long way in defining the artist's general approach to storytelling. Indeed, Opus is all about creators and their relationships with, and responsibilities to, their creations. It is a metafictional narrative where the protagonist, a manga artist by the name of Chikara Nagai, plunges into his own created storyworld and is seen as a god-like figure by his characters. But some of the players in his story attempt to wrench control of their own destinies, creating an almost dizzying interaction between "reality" and "fiction." As Derek points out, fans of Grant Morrison will love what Satoshi Kon does in Opus. And although the book was ultimately incomplete at the time of the artist's death in 2010, the editors of this edition include an unfinished final chapter that, for all practical purposes, wraps things up as best as possible. All in all, this is an exciting first outing for Shea and Derek in their attempt to immerse listeners into the fascinating world of manga. Beginning in April, The Comics Alternative will be presenting a new monthly show devoted exclusively to manga. Derek will be joined by Shea Hennum, a manga aficionado and longtime friend of the podcast, to discuss both new and older titles. In this inaugural episode, Shea and Derek begin by laying out their agenda and describing the format of the show. Around the last half of every month, they will discuss two manga titles, one of which will in some way be new. (The guys define "new" as a first-time publication, a new translation, an updated edition of an older volume, or a new collection of previously published individual volumes.) This month, Derek and Shea discuss Junji Ito's Gyo -- which is seeing brand new 2-in-1 deluxe edition from VIZ Media  -- and Satoshi Kon's Opus, which came out a few months ago from Dark Horse. Before they get to the titles, though, the guys first define what they mean by "manga," contextualizing it as both a medium and a style. They also address common and essentializing misconceptions of manga, introducing forms that are far different from the kind of manga most popularly known in this country (e.g., Naruto, Bleach, and Fruits Basket). In fact, they predict that the vast majority of what they'll be discussing on the monthly shows are titles that most American fans of manga will not immediately recognize. Shea and Derek then recommend a few manga guides or introductory critical works that listeners might find useful. But after all of the preliminary comments and explanations, the guys get down to the nitty gritty of the show: discussing specific manga titles. They begin with Gyo, emphasizing its disturbing tone and sheer creepiness. Jinji Ito is a master of the horror genre, as is evidenced by earlier works, Tomie and Uzumaki, and in Gyo the terror comes from a gaseous stench and fish on mechanical legs. At times Ito stretches credibility by taking his narrative close to the extreme, but he seems to always pull back just before venturing into the ridiculous. In fact, when reading Gyo Derek kept thinking of Sharknado and other outlandish Syfy over-the-top movies, although not making the association in a negative way. Jinji Ito is a much more intelligent, and adept, storyteller than that. Next, they focus on Satoshi Kon's Opus. Of the two titles discussed this month, this is the one that really captures the guys' admiration. Primarily known for his anime Perfect Blue, Paranoia Agent, Tokyo Godfathers, and Paprika, Satoshi Kon began his career as a manga artist, and Shea points out that this work goes a long way in defining the artist's general approach to storytelling. Indeed, Opus is all about creators and their relationships with, and responsibilities to, their creations. It is a metafictional narrative where the protagonist, a manga artist by the name of Chikara Nagai, plunges into his own created storyworld and is seen as a god-like figure by his characters. But some of the players in his story attempt to wrench control of their own destinies, creating an almost dizzying interaction between "reality" and "fiction." As Derek points out, fans of Grant Morrison will love what Satoshi Kon does in Opus. And although the book was ultimately incomplete at the time of the artist's death in 2010, the editors of this edition include an unfinished final chapter that, for all practical purposes, wraps things up as best as possible. All in all, this is an exciting first outing for Shea and Derek in their attempt to immerse listeners into the fascinating world of manga.

]]> 6242 no Episode 133 - A Publisher Spotlight on Koyama Press http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-133.mp3 Occasionally, Derek and Andy like to devote an episode to a particular publisher, looking at the recent or seasonal releases and providing a snapshot of the kind of books they publish. So for this week, the Two Guys discuss the spring publications from Koyama Press, a Toronto-based small press founded in 2007 by Annie Koyama. This is a publisher that the guys deeply appreciate but have discussed little on the show. (They reviewed Renee French's Baby Bjornstrand in November of last year, and there have been a few reviews of Koyama books on the blog.) The conversation begins with Alex Schubert's Blobby Boys 2, a minimalist collection of stories with a punk aesthetic and a great sense of humor. This is a follow up to the first Blobby Boys book, which came out in fall of 2013. The guys discuss the book's wild and violent comedy, and while they enjoy the strips devoted to the titular characters, they particularly like the two stories focusing on Fashion Cat, a hip, powerful, yet ill-fated celebrity of the fashion world. After that, Andy and Derek look at Ginette Lapalme's Confetti. This is not really comic -- although there is a little sequential narrative in the opening pages of the book -- but more of an art book. Lapalme's illustrations, paintings, and object art are featured throughout, and the guys try to find several iconic themes that link the pieces together, such as melting heads, bodily fluids, butts with eyes on them, and the obvious prevalence of cats. Next, they turn to an unequivocal comic, A. Degen's Mighty Star and the Castle of the Cancatervater. This is special kind of superhero story, one that is largely silent. (There is text that introduces each chapter's dramatic personae, and there are vague sounds, represented by Ns and Hs, that are sprinkled throughout.) Degen's unique take on the hero or adventure genres is both compelling and metaphorical. But when it comes to thought-provoking texts, there is perhaps no book discussed this week more philosophical than Dustin Harbin's Diary Comics. This project began as an online illustrated journal that Harbin kept beginning in January 2010, where he would try to represent each of his days with at least one comics panel. He continued this experiment off-and-on until September 2012, eventually releasing hardcopy issues of this work in four short installments. Now, all of those life stories are collected in a single volume, and one of the pleasures of reading Diary Comics is seeing the development of Harbin as an writer and how his art, as well as his understanding of himself as an artist, progresses over time. Indeed, the highlight of the text is its opening and closing sections, where Harbin introduces his project and provides a interpretive context that is much more than mere navel gazing. This is the kind of meticulously crafted and experimental work, much like that other books discussed on the episode, that represents Koyama's mission and deserves far more attention from comics readers. Wed, 29 Apr 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Life Stories, Evil Philosophers, and Butts with Eyes Occasionally, Derek and Andy like to devote an episode to a particular publisher, looking at the recent or seasonal releases and providing a snapshot of the kind of books they publish. So for this week, the Two Guys discuss the spring publications from Koyama Press, a Toronto-based small press founded in 2007 by Annie Koyama. This is a publisher that the guys deeply appreciate but have discussed little on the show. (They reviewed Renee French's Baby Bjornstrand in November of last year, and there have been a few reviews of Koyama books on the blog.) The conversation begins with Alex Schubert's Blobby Boys 2, a minimalist collection of stories with a punk aesthetic and a great sense of humor. This is a follow up to the first Blobby Boys book, which came out in fall of 2013. The guys discuss the book's wild and violent comedy, and while they enjoy the strips devoted to the titular characters, they particularly like the two stories focusing on Fashion Cat, a hip, powerful, yet ill-fated celebrity of the fashion world. After that, Andy and Derek look at Ginette Lapalme's Confetti. This is not really comic -- although there is a little sequential narrative in the opening pages of the book -- but more of an art book. Lapalme's illustrations, paintings, and object art are featured throughout, and the guys try to find several iconic themes that link the pieces together, such as melting heads, bodily fluids, butts with eyes on them, and the obvious prevalence of cats. Next, they turn to an unequivocal comic, A. Degen's Mighty Star and the Castle of the Cancatervater. This is special kind of superhero story, one that is largely silent. (There is text that introduces each chapter's dramatic personae, and there are vague sounds, represented by Ns and Hs, that are sprinkled throughout.) Degen's unique take on the hero or adventure genres is both compelling and metaphorical. But when it comes to thought-provoking texts, there is perhaps no book discussed this week more philosophical than Dustin Harbin's Diary Comics. This project began as an online illustrated journal that Harbin kept beginning in January 2010, where he would try to represent each of his days with at least one comics panel. He continued this experiment off-and-on until September 2012, eventually releasing hardcopy issues of this work in four short installments. Now, all of those life stories are collected in a single volume, and one of the pleasures of reading Diary Comics is seeing the development of Harbin as an writer and how his art, as well as his understanding of himself as an artist, progresses over time. Indeed, the highlight of the text is its opening and closing sections, where Harbin introduces his project and provides a interpretive context that is much more than mere navel gazing. This is the kind of meticulously crafted and experimental work, much like that other books discussed on the episode, that represents Koyama's mission and deserves far more attention from comics readers. Occasionally, Derek and Andy like to devote an episode to a particular publisher, looking at the recent or seasonal releases and providing a snapshot of the kind of books they publish. So for this week, the Two Guys discuss the spring publications from Koyama Press, a Toronto-based small press founded in 2007 by Annie Koyama. This is a publisher that the guys deeply appreciate but have discussed little on the show. (They reviewed Renee French's Baby Bjornstrand in November of last year, and there have been a few reviews of Koyama books on the blog.) The conversation begins with Alex Schubert's Blobby Boys 2, a minimalist collection of stories with a punk aesthetic and a great sense of humor. This is a follow up to the first Blobby Boys book, which came out in fall of 2013. The guys discuss the book's wild and violent comedy, and while they enjoy the strips devoted to the titular characters, they particularly like the two stories focusing on Fashion Cat, a hip, powerful, yet ill-fated celebrity of the fashion world. After that, Andy and Derek look at Ginette Lapalme's Confetti. This is not really comic -- although there is a little sequential narrative in the opening pages of the book -- but more of an art book. Lapalme's illustrations, paintings, and object art are featured throughout, and the guys try to find several iconic themes that link the pieces together, such as melting heads, bodily fluids, butts with eyes on them, and the obvious prevalence of cats. Next, they turn to an unequivocal comic, A. Degen's Mighty Star and the Castle of the Cancatervater. This is special kind of superhero story, one that is largely silent. (There is text that introduces each chapter's dramatic personae, and there are vague sounds, represented by Ns and Hs, that are sprinkled throughout.) Degen's unique take on the hero or adventure genres is both compelling and metaphorical. But when it comes to thought-provoking texts, there is perhaps no book discussed this week more philosophical than Dustin Harbin's Diary Comics. This project began as an online illustrated journal that Harbin kept beginning in January 2010, where he would try to represent each of his days with at least one comics panel. He continued this experiment off-and-on until September 2012, eventually releasing hardcopy issues of this work in four short installments. Now, all of those life stories are collected in a single volume, and one of the pleasures of reading Diary Comics is seeing the development of Harbin as an writer and how his art, as well as his understanding of himself as an artist, progresses over time. Indeed, the highlight of the text is its opening and closing sections, where Harbin introduces his project and provides a interpretive context that is much more than mere navel gazing. This is the kind of meticulously crafted and experimental work, much like that other books discussed on the episode, that represents Koyama's mission and deserves far more attention from comics readers.

]]> 5063 no Interviews - Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews46-Fialkov-Chamberlain.mp3 On this episode of the interview show, Derek and Gene talk with the strange minds behind the even stranger title, Punks: The Comic, Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain. Their first trade collection, Punks: The Comic, Vol. 1: Nutpuncher, has just come out this month from Image Comics, and Josh and Kody are ready to spill the beans about their secrets to humorous success. They talk with the guys about the genesis of Punks, how they come up with story ideas, their collaborative process, and the possible future of the title. If you're familiar with this comic, you know all about its offbeat humor, its non sequitur sensibilities, and its resistance to formula. Gene and Derek have the same kind of experience talking with the creators, demonstrating that the title's humor comes from a idiosyncratic wellspring. Both Kody and Josh are entertainingly funny, and Punks is their weird labor of love...complete with cross-stitched Lincoln patters, Sean Connory-infested holidays, do-it-yourself awesome red ties, violent gnome deaths, a fish-faced Rick Remender, fun facts about urine, and Nutpuncher: The Game. The Two Guys also ask the collaborators about some of the titles they work on separately, such as Kody's Sweets: A New Orleans Crime Story, and Josh's The Bunker and The Life After. All in all, it is a fun and funky interview, and both Derek and Gene eagerly await the upcoming release of Punks: The Comic-CBLDF Special, where the historic Comics Code will get the roasting it truly deserves. Mon, 27 Apr 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Nutpunching Goodness On this episode of the interview show, Derek and Gene talk with the strange minds behind the even stranger title, Punks: The Comic, Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain. Their first trade collection, Punks: The Comic, Vol. 1: Nutpuncher, has just come out this month from Image Comics, and Josh and Kody are ready to spill the beans about their secrets to humorous success. They talk with the guys about the genesis of Punks, how they come up with story ideas, their collaborative process, and the possible future of the title. If you're familiar with this comic, you know all about its offbeat humor, its non sequitur sensibilities, and its resistance to formula. Gene and Derek have the same kind of experience talking with the creators, demonstrating that the title's humor comes from a idiosyncratic wellspring. Both Kody and Josh are entertainingly funny, and Punks is their weird labor of love...complete with cross-stitched Lincoln patters, Sean Connory-infested holidays, do-it-yourself awesome red ties, violent gnome deaths, a fish-faced Rick Remender, fun facts about urine, and Nutpuncher: The Game. The Two Guys also ask the collaborators about some of the titles they work on separately, such as Kody's Sweets: A New Orleans Crime Story, and Josh's The Bunker and The Life After. All in all, it is a fun and funky interview, and both Derek and Gene eagerly await the upcoming release of Punks: The Comic-CBLDF Special, where the historic Comics Code will get the roasting it truly deserves. On this episode of the interview show, Derek and Gene talk with the strange minds behind the even stranger title, Punks: The Comic, Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain. Their first trade collection, Punks: The Comic, Vol. 1: Nutpuncher, has just come out this month from Image Comics, and Josh and Kody are ready to spill the beans about their secrets to humorous success. They talk with the guys about the genesis of Punks, how they come up with story ideas, their collaborative process, and the possible future of the title. If you're familiar with this comic, you know all about its offbeat humor, its non sequitur sensibilities, and its resistance to formula. Gene and Derek have the same kind of experience talking with the creators, demonstrating that the title's humor comes from a idiosyncratic wellspring. Both Kody and Josh are entertainingly funny, and Punks is their weird labor of love...complete with cross-stitched Lincoln patters, Sean Connory-infested holidays, do-it-yourself awesome red ties, violent gnome deaths, a fish-faced Rick Remender, fun facts about urine, and Nutpuncher: The Game. The Two Guys also ask the collaborators about some of the titles they work on separately, such as Kody's Sweets: A New Orleans Crime Story, and Josh's The Bunker and The Life After. All in all, it is a fun and funky interview, and both Derek and Gene eagerly await the upcoming release of Punks: The Comic-CBLDF Special, where the historic Comics Code will get the roasting it truly deserves.

]]> 4865 yes Interviews - Back Again with Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews45-Yoe.mp3 Craig Yoe is back for his fourth interview appearance on The Comics Alternative, and this time he has two wacky new books to share with everyone, both from IDW Publishing and Yoe! Books. First, he talks with Derek and Andy about Milt Gross' New York, a "lost" graphic novel that was originally published in 1939 to capitalize on that year's New York World's Fair. Copies of the original paperback are very difficult to find, but Craig was able to get his hands on one -- thanks to eBay -- and then work his wonders in what he does best: restoring and reproducing in beautiful editions classic, often obscure, comics from our past. The result is a sturdy hardback volume that showcases the wild and breakneck style of Milt Gross. Originally published by Bystander Press and titled That's My Pop! Goes Nuts for Fair: A Cartoon Tour of New York, it features Gross's famous (at the time) character Pop, a proto-Homer Simpson, and his admiring son as they tour New York City, it's neighborhoods, its nightlife, its culture, its food, its busy streets, and then finally ending up at the World's Fair. Craig discusses the significance of Milt Gross to comics history and how his work is often overlooked. More to the point, much of the conversation centers on this new edition and how it could be read as a defining example of the cartoonist, who Craig sees as one of America's funniest artists. Next, Derek and Andy talk with their guest about a second new publication from Yoe! Books, Weird Love, Vol. 1: You Know You Want It. It was almost a year ago that the Two Guys interviewed Craig about the inaugural issue of his semi-monthly series, Weird Love, and now that the first collected volume is out, they wanted to talk with him about his further adventures in finding strange stories masquerading as romance comics. Over the course of their conversation, the guys talk about hippy love, misogyny, spanking, communism, escorts, molls, Ronald Reagan, wayward girls, body image, and perhaps most disturbing of all (at least for Derek), clown love. As with every interview with Craig, the conversation never flags, is filled with fun and unlikely topics, and you're not entirely sure where things will end up. The guys also talk with Craig about the fifth anniversary of Yoe! Books, a topic they discussed back in January, and how that year-long celebration is going. All in all, it's a fun conversation...as it usually is with this guest. Craig's been on the show so many times that he's almost becoming an honorary cohost of The Comics Alternative. But that's fine with Andy and Derek, and they plan to have him back for more conversation in the months to come. Fri, 24 Apr 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Clown Love Craig Yoe is back for his fourth interview appearance on The Comics Alternative, and this time he has two wacky new books to share with everyone, both from IDW Publishing and Yoe! Books. First, he talks with Derek and Andy about Milt Gross' New York, a "lost" graphic novel that was originally published in 1939 to capitalize on that year's New York World's Fair. Copies of the original paperback are very difficult to find, but Craig was able to get his hands on one -- thanks to eBay -- and then work his wonders in what he does best: restoring and reproducing in beautiful editions classic, often obscure, comics from our past. The result is a sturdy hardback volume that showcases the wild and breakneck style of Milt Gross. Originally published by Bystander Press and titled That's My Pop! Goes Nuts for Fair: A Cartoon Tour of New York, it features Gross's famous (at the time) character Pop, a proto-Homer Simpson, and his admiring son as they tour New York City, it's neighborhoods, its nightlife, its culture, its food, its busy streets, and then finally ending up at the World's Fair. Craig discusses the significance of Milt Gross to comics history and how his work is often overlooked. More to the point, much of the conversation centers on this new edition and how it could be read as a defining example of the cartoonist, who Craig sees as one of America's funniest artists. Next, Derek and Andy talk with their guest about a second new publication from Yoe! Books, Weird Love, Vol. 1: You Know You Want It. It was almost a year ago that the Two Guys interviewed Craig about the inaugural issue of his semi-monthly series, Weird Love, and now that the first collected volume is out, they wanted to talk with him about his further adventures in finding strange stories masquerading as romance comics. Over the course of their conversation, the guys talk about hippy love, misogyny, spanking, communism, escorts, molls, Ronald Reagan, wayward girls, body image, and perhaps most disturbing of all (at least for Derek), clown love. As with every interview with Craig, the conversation never flags, is filled with fun and unlikely topics, and you're not entirely sure where things will end up. The guys also talk with Craig about the fifth anniversary of Yoe! Books, a topic they discussed back in January, and how that year-long celebration is going. All in all, it's a fun conversation...as it usually is with this guest. Craig's been on the show so many times that he's almost becoming an honorary cohost of The Comics Alternative. But that's fine with Andy and Derek, and they plan to have him back for more conversation in the months to come. Craig Yoe is back for his fourth interview appearance on The Comics Alternative, and this time he has two wacky new books to share with everyone, both from IDW Publishing and Yoe! Books. First, he talks with Derek and Andy about Milt Gross' New York, a "lost" graphic novel that was originally published in 1939 to capitalize on that year's New York World's Fair. Copies of the original paperback are very difficult to find, but Craig was able to get his hands on one -- thanks to eBay -- and then work his wonders in what he does best: restoring and reproducing in beautiful editions classic, often obscure, comics from our past. The result is a sturdy hardback volume that showcases the wild and breakneck style of Milt Gross. Originally published by Bystander Press and titled That's My Pop! Goes Nuts for Fair: A Cartoon Tour of New York, it features Gross's famous (at the time) character Pop, a proto-Homer Simpson, and his admiring son as they tour New York City, it's neighborhoods, its nightlife, its culture, its food, its busy streets, and then finally ending up at the World's Fair. Craig discusses the significance of Milt Gross to comics history and how his work is often overlooked. More to the point, much of the conversation centers on this new edition and how it could be read as a defining example of the cartoonist, who Craig sees as one of America's funniest artists. Next, Derek and Andy talk with their guest about a second new publication from Yoe! Books, Weird Love, Vol. 1: You Know You Want It. It was almost a year ago that the Two Guys interviewed Craig about the inaugural issue of his semi-monthly series, Weird Love, and now that the first collected volume is out, they wanted to talk with him about his further adventures in finding strange stories masquerading as romance comics. Over the course of their conversation, the guys talk about hippy love, misogyny, spanking, communism, escorts, molls, Ronald Reagan, wayward girls, body image, and perhaps most disturbing of all (at least for Derek), clown love. As with every interview with Craig, the conversation never flags, is filled with fun and unlikely topics, and you're not entirely sure where things will end up. The guys also talk with Craig about the fifth anniversary of Yoe! Books, a topic they discussed back in January, and how that year-long celebration is going. All in all, it's a fun conversation...as it usually is with this guest. Craig's been on the show so many times that he's almost becoming an honorary cohost of The Comics Alternative. But that's fine with Andy and Derek, and they plan to have him back for more conversation in the months to come.

]]> 5259 yes Episode 132 - Reviews of The Leaning Girl and Unflattening http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-132.mp3 On this episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek discuss two thought-provoking books that challenge the way we look at sequential narratives. First, they explore François Schuiten and Benoît Peeters's The Leaning Girl, the first edition of the Franco-Belgian series, Les Cités obscures, currently being translated and published in English by Alaxis Press. The guys begin by giving a little background of The Obscure Cities, its spotty publication history in the US, and Alaxis Press' attempts to bring all eleven volumes of the series into print with new translations. The Leaning Girl is actually the sixth book in the series, although readers do not need any knowledge or experience with the earlier works in order to appreciate it. In fact, the guys emphasize the fact that The Leaning Girl easily stands (or leans) on its own, and its immersive narrative world, as fantastic as it is, effectively draws you in so that you quickly become acquainted with its many facets. There are three story threads that eventually tie together, much like the convergence between worlds that takes place in the book. Translated by Stephen D. Smith, and with photography by Marie-Françoise Plissart, The Leaning Girl is a beautiful European album-sized work of art, one that anticipates and sets the standard for the next planned volumes in the series, The Theory of the Grain of Sand and The Shadow of a Man. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs look at a completely different kind of book, Nick Sousanis's Unflattening. Published by Harvard University Press, this book is based off of Sousanis's doctoral dissertation at the Teachers College of Columbia University, and it focuses on alternative and diverse ways of experiencing the world, making our understanding of existence more "rounded" and less "flat" (thus, the title). This is an extended essay in comics form -- much like Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics -- and it's divided into ten main sections (not counting the extensive notes and bibliography that complete the text). Sousanis begins with references to Edwin A. Abbott's Flatland and then uses that romance as a springboard into his larger thesis. The first three chapters, or parts, provide a brief introductory overview of epistemology from a historical perspective. The themes presented here are played out over the course of the text. In the fourth section, "The Shape of Our Thoughts," Sousanis links his broader ideas with the medium of comics, and it's here where Unflattening becomes a kind of theoretical take on comics. After that, the book plays out the remainder of his thesis. Both guys are fascinated by this project, and as Andy points out, the book is exciting for what might anticipate with future graduate studies, comics and otherwise. Will we see other comics-based dissertations in other disciplines? And while Derek believes this to be one of the most notable books of the year, he nonetheless feels that the narrative flattens out -- so to speak -- about halfway in, after the "Shape of Our Thoughts" chapter, and that Sousanis merely revisits or repeats many of the points he made in the first half. Regardless, this is comic worth studying, even though it will probably fall beneath most readers' radar. But as the guys point out, it, along with The Leaning Girl, deserves serious and repeated attention. Wed, 22 Apr 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Flat Earth? On this episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek discuss two thought-provoking books that challenge the way we look at sequential narratives. First, they explore François Schuiten and Benoît Peeters's The Leaning Girl, the first edition of the Franco-Belgian series, Les Cités obscures, currently being translated and published in English by Alaxis Press. The guys begin by giving a little background of The Obscure Cities, its spotty publication history in the US, and Alaxis Press' attempts to bring all eleven volumes of the series into print with new translations. The Leaning Girl is actually the sixth book in the series, although readers do not need any knowledge or experience with the earlier works in order to appreciate it. In fact, the guys emphasize the fact that The Leaning Girl easily stands (or leans) on its own, and its immersive narrative world, as fantastic as it is, effectively draws you in so that you quickly become acquainted with its many facets. There are three story threads that eventually tie together, much like the convergence between worlds that takes place in the book. Translated by Stephen D. Smith, and with photography by Marie-Françoise Plissart, The Leaning Girl is a beautiful European album-sized work of art, one that anticipates and sets the standard for the next planned volumes in the series, The Theory of the Grain of Sand and The Shadow of a Man. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs look at a completely different kind of book, Nick Sousanis's Unflattening. Published by Harvard University Press, this book is based off of Sousanis's doctoral dissertation at the Teachers College of Columbia University, and it focuses on alternative and diverse ways of experiencing the world, making our understanding of existence more "rounded" and less "flat" (thus, the title). This is an extended essay in comics form -- much like Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics -- and it's divided into ten main sections (not counting the extensive notes and bibliography that complete the text). Sousanis begins with references to Edwin A. Abbott's Flatland and then uses that romance as a springboard into his larger thesis. The first three chapters, or parts, provide a brief introductory overview of epistemology from a historical perspective. The themes presented here are played out over the course of the text. In the fourth section, "The Shape of Our Thoughts," Sousanis links his broader ideas with the medium of comics, and it's here where Unflattening becomes a kind of theoretical take on comics. After that, the book plays out the remainder of his thesis. Both guys are fascinated by this project, and as Andy points out, the book is exciting for what might anticipate with future graduate studies, comics and otherwise. Will we see other comics-based dissertations in other disciplines? And while Derek believes this to be one of the most notable books of the year, he nonetheless feels that the narrative flattens out -- so to speak -- about halfway in, after the "Shape of Our Thoughts" chapter, and that Sousanis merely revisits or repeats many of the points he made in the first half. Regardless, this is comic worth studying, even though it will probably fall beneath most readers' radar. But as the guys point out, it, along with The Leaning Girl, deserves serious and repeated attention. On this episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek discuss two thought-provoking books that challenge the way we look at sequential narratives. First, they explore François Schuiten and Benoît Peeters's The Leaning Girl, the first edition of the Franco-Belgian series, Les Cités obscures, currently being translated and published in English by Alaxis Press. The guys begin by giving a little background of The Obscure Cities, its spotty publication history in the US, and Alaxis Press' attempts to bring all eleven volumes of the series into print with new translations. The Leaning Girl is actually the sixth book in the series, although readers do not need any knowledge or experience with the earlier works in order to appreciate it. In fact, the guys emphasize the fact that The Leaning Girl easily stands (or leans) on its own, and its immersive narrative world, as fantastic as it is, effectively draws you in so that you quickly become acquainted with its many facets. There are three story threads that eventually tie together, much like the convergence between worlds that takes place in the book. Translated by Stephen D. Smith, and with photography by Marie-Françoise Plissart, The Leaning Girl is a beautiful European album-sized work of art, one that anticipates and sets the standard for the next planned volumes in the series, The Theory of the Grain of Sand and The Shadow of a Man. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs look at a completely different kind of book, Nick Sousanis's Unflattening. Published by Harvard University Press, this book is based off of Sousanis's doctoral dissertation at the Teachers College of Columbia University, and it focuses on alternative and diverse ways of experiencing the world, making our understanding of existence more "rounded" and less "flat" (thus, the title). This is an extended essay in comics form -- much like Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics -- and it's divided into ten main sections (not counting the extensive notes and bibliography that complete the text). Sousanis begins with references to Edwin A. Abbott's Flatland and then uses that romance as a springboard into his larger thesis. The first three chapters, or parts, provide a brief introductory overview of epistemology from a historical perspective. The themes presented here are played out over the course of the text. In the fourth section, "The Shape of Our Thoughts," Sousanis links his broader ideas with the medium of comics, and it's here where Unflattening becomes a kind of theoretical take on comics. After that, the book plays out the remainder of his thesis. Both guys are fascinated by this project, and as Andy points out, the book is exciting for what might anticipate with future graduate studies, comics and otherwise. Will we see other comics-based dissertations in other disciplines? And while Derek believes this to be one of the most notable books of the year, he nonetheless feels that the narrative flattens out -- so to speak -- about halfway in, after the "Shape of Our Thoughts" chapter, and that Sousanis merely revisits or repeats many of the points he made in the first half. Regardless, this is comic worth studying, even though it will probably fall beneath most readers' radar. But as the guys point out, it, along with The Leaning Girl, deserves serious and repeated attention.

]]> 3490 no On Location - Discussing Comics "Returns" at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation12.mp3 Derek is back at his local comic book shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month he's talking with customers and employees about returns. This is not about customers being unhappy with their purchases and then coming back into the shop to demand their money back. By "returns," Derek is referring to the various titles, characters, and events that are making reappearances after years of silence or of being out of currency. This is an appropriate topic because over the past year there have been a number of works that have come back or that have been reassertion themselves in new forms. For example, they get the conversation going, surprisingly enough, with a discussion of Bob Fingerman's Minimum Wage, which came back through Image Comics last year. The people who were there to talk with Derek -- Krystle, Shea, Craig, Matthew, and Michael -- were divided on this title, with some appreciating it, some not liking it, and one or two not even knowing what it is. But the conversation soon turns to more popular mainstream books that have been reappearing on the shelves, such as the new Star Wars comics published through (and returning to) Marvel. This leads to a brief discussion among the participants of other Marvel characters who are once again getting more panel space, such as Howard the Duck. While almost everyone there likes Chip Zdarsky and Joe Quinones's new series, Derek is the odd man out because Howard's heavy-handed insertion into the Marvel Universe is not to his liking, and he sees the new premise as an easy and predictable ploy. But they discuss other returns as well, such as the Big Two's return to universe-altering events, Convergence and Secret Wars; old titles coming back after Convergence but with very different creators, such as Gene Luen Yang (Superman), Ming Doyle (Constantine: The Hellblazer), and Sonny Liew (Dr. Fate); AiT/Planet Lar's Astronauts in Trouble coming out from Image (although Derek can't remember the title, for some reason); reprints of famous underground comix coming out in (expensive) collections from Fantagraphics; and more terror from Junji Ito in the form of Fragments of Horror and the new deluxe edition of Gyo. Of course, there are a lot of returns that the guys didn't get around to discussing -- David Lapham's Stray Bullets from last year, the recently announced second issue of Nate Simpson's Nonplayer, and old characters coming back to the Valiant universe -- but there's only so much you can pack into an on-location show before the shop has to close. Fri, 17 Apr 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "That's a naked ass right next to my kid's face" Derek is back at his local comic book shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month he's talking with customers and employees about returns. This is not about customers being unhappy with their purchases and then coming back into the shop to demand their money back. By "returns," Derek is referring to the various titles, characters, and events that are making reappearances after years of silence or of being out of currency. This is an appropriate topic because over the past year there have been a number of works that have come back or that have been reassertion themselves in new forms. For example, they get the conversation going, surprisingly enough, with a discussion of Bob Fingerman's Minimum Wage, which came back through Image Comics last year. The people who were there to talk with Derek -- Krystle, Shea, Craig, Matthew, and Michael -- were divided on this title, with some appreciating it, some not liking it, and one or two not even knowing what it is. But the conversation soon turns to more popular mainstream books that have been reappearing on the shelves, such as the new Star Wars comics published through (and returning to) Marvel. This leads to a brief discussion among the participants of other Marvel characters who are once again getting more panel space, such as Howard the Duck. While almost everyone there likes Chip Zdarsky and Joe Quinones's new series, Derek is the odd man out because Howard's heavy-handed insertion into the Marvel Universe is not to his liking, and he sees the new premise as an easy and predictable ploy. But they discuss other returns as well, such as the Big Two's return to universe-altering events, Convergence and Secret Wars; old titles coming back after Convergence but with very different creators, such as Gene Luen Yang (Superman), Ming Doyle (Constantine: The Hellblazer), and Sonny Liew (Dr. Fate); AiT/Planet Lar's Astronauts in Trouble coming out from Image (although Derek can't remember the title, for some reason); reprints of famous underground comix coming out in (expensive) collections from Fantagraphics; and more terror from Junji Ito in the form of Fragments of Horror and the new deluxe edition of Gyo. Of course, there are a lot of returns that the guys didn't get around to discussing -- David Lapham's Stray Bullets from last year, the recently announced second issue of Nate Simpson's Nonplayer, and old characters coming back to the Valiant universe -- but there's only so much you can pack into an on-location show before the shop has to close. Derek is back at his local comic book shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month he's talking with customers and employees about returns. This is not about customers being unhappy with their purchases and then coming back into the shop to demand their money back. By "returns," Derek is referring to the various titles, characters, and events that are making reappearances after years of silence or of being out of currency. This is an appropriate topic because over the past year there have been a number of works that have come back or that have been reassertion themselves in new forms. For example, they get the conversation going, surprisingly enough, with a discussion of Bob Fingerman's Minimum Wage, which came back through Image Comics last year. The people who were there to talk with Derek -- Krystle, Shea, Craig, Matthew, and Michael -- were divided on this title, with some appreciating it, some not liking it, and one or two not even knowing what it is. But the conversation soon turns to more popular mainstream books that have been reappearing on the shelves, such as the new Star Wars comics published through (and returning to) Marvel. This leads to a brief discussion among the participants of other Marvel characters who are once again getting more panel space, such as Howard the Duck. While almost everyone there likes Chip Zdarsky and Joe Quinones's new series, Derek is the odd man out because Howard's heavy-handed insertion into the Marvel Universe is not to his liking, and he sees the new premise as an easy and predictable ploy. But they discuss other returns as well, such as the Big Two's return to universe-altering events, Convergence and Secret Wars; old titles coming back after Convergence but with very different creators, such as Gene Luen Yang (Superman), Ming Doyle (Constantine: The Hellblazer), and Sonny Liew (Dr. Fate); AiT/Planet Lar's Astronauts in Trouble coming out from Image (although Derek can't remember the title, for some reason); reprints of famous underground comix coming out in (expensive) collections from Fantagraphics; and more terror from Junji Ito in the form of Fragments of Horror and the new deluxe edition of Gyo. Of course, there are a lot of returns that the guys didn't get around to discussing -- David Lapham's Stray Bullets from last year, the recently announced second issue of Nate Simpson's Nonplayer, and old characters coming back to the Valiant universe -- but there's only so much you can pack into an on-location show before the shop has to close.

]]> 4628 yes Episode 131 - Reviews of Nemo: River of Ghosts, Rebels #1, and No Mercy #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-131.mp3 This week Derek and Andy discuss three recent titles, each of which is part of a larger series. First, they review the third in Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill's Nemo trilogy, Nemo: River of Ghosts (Top Shelf). The guys begin their discussion by looking at the series as a whole -- even placing the trilogy within the larger context of Moore's League of Extraordinary Gentlemen universe -- and then exploring the accessibility of the text as a singular narrative. River of Ghosts certainly needs to stand alongside the first two Nemo volumes, Heart of Ice and The Roses of Berlin, but the intertextual demands imbedded in the story (and in the Nemo trilogy as a whole) are far fewer than they are in the League books. Indeed, the three-part story of Janni Dakkar, beginning in 1925 (in Heart of Ice) and wrapping up in 1987, where River of Ghosts concludes, reads more as an adventure tale to be enjoyed than as a literary text to be deciphered. Yet, the Nemo trilogy is still part of Moore's larger narrative tapestry, and its picaresque quality adds even further dimension to the already substantive League universe. Next, the Two Guys turn to the latest series from Brian Wood, Rebels (Dark Horse). In this inaugural issue, with art by Andrea Mutti, we get a good dose of historical fiction -- the New Hampshire Grants become pivotal, and Ethan Allen even makes an appearance -- but in many ways it's familiar territory to Wood. This first narrative arc's subtitle, "A Well-Regulated Militia," as well as the introductory premise embedded on the first page, suggest that this series may be similar to Wood's long-running DMZ in political and cultural tone. Although that one of his favorite series from the past decade, Derek hopes that the allegorical messaging found in DMZ doesn't become too heavy in Rebels. And Andy observes that perhaps the series will stick more closely to the kind of historically based fiction we find in Northlanders. Yet, despite a little confusion generated by the issue's central confrontation, a class between colonials and redcoats at the village courthouse, the guys found Rebels #1 a solid read and anticipate the series to come. Andy and Derek wrap up this week's show with a review of No Mercy #1 (Image), the new series from Alex de Campi and Carla Speed McNeil. What begins as a potentially light or trendy look at youth culture turns darker and more complex as the story develops. As de Campi makes clear in her comments at the end of this first issue, the lives and interactions of young adults are rich enough with drama without the usual genre-bendings or twists found in many contemporary narratives. There are no vampires, no otherworldly visitations, no anthropomorphic engagements. In No Mercy, we can expect to get real people from real contexts, and the story will be driven by their all-too-real desires and limitations. And in this first issue, we see de Campi and McNeil play out this premise to an uncertain, and unexpected, crescendo. Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Finding Nemo This week Derek and Andy discuss three recent titles, each of which is part of a larger series. First, they review the third in Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill's Nemo trilogy, Nemo: River of Ghosts (Top Shelf). The guys begin their discussion by looking at the series as a whole -- even placing the trilogy within the larger context of Moore's League of Extraordinary Gentlemen universe -- and then exploring the accessibility of the text as a singular narrative. River of Ghosts certainly needs to stand alongside the first two Nemo volumes, Heart of Ice and The Roses of Berlin, but the intertextual demands imbedded in the story (and in the Nemo trilogy as a whole) are far fewer than they are in the League books. Indeed, the three-part story of Janni Dakkar, beginning in 1925 (in Heart of Ice) and wrapping up in 1987, where River of Ghosts concludes, reads more as an adventure tale to be enjoyed than as a literary text to be deciphered. Yet, the Nemo trilogy is still part of Moore's larger narrative tapestry, and its picaresque quality adds even further dimension to the already substantive League universe. Next, the Two Guys turn to the latest series from Brian Wood, Rebels (Dark Horse). In this inaugural issue, with art by Andrea Mutti, we get a good dose of historical fiction -- the New Hampshire Grants become pivotal, and Ethan Allen even makes an appearance -- but in many ways it's familiar territory to Wood. This first narrative arc's subtitle, "A Well-Regulated Militia," as well as the introductory premise embedded on the first page, suggest that this series may be similar to Wood's long-running DMZ in political and cultural tone. Although that one of his favorite series from the past decade, Derek hopes that the allegorical messaging found in DMZ doesn't become too heavy in Rebels. And Andy observes that perhaps the series will stick more closely to the kind of historically based fiction we find in Northlanders. Yet, despite a little confusion generated by the issue's central confrontation, a class between colonials and redcoats at the village courthouse, the guys found Rebels #1 a solid read and anticipate the series to come. Andy and Derek wrap up this week's show with a review of No Mercy #1 (Image), the new series from Alex de Campi and Carla Speed McNeil. What begins as a potentially light or trendy look at youth culture turns darker and more complex as the story develops. As de Campi makes clear in her comments at the end of this first issue, the lives and interactions of young adults are rich enough with drama without the usual genre-bendings or twists found in many contemporary narratives. There are no vampires, no otherworldly visitations, no anthropomorphic engagements. In No Mercy, we can expect to get real people from real contexts, and the story will be driven by their all-too-real desires and limitations. And in this first issue, we see de Campi and McNeil play out this premise to an uncertain, and unexpected, crescendo. This week Derek and Andy discuss three recent titles, each of which is part of a larger series. First, they review the third in Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill's Nemo trilogy, Nemo: River of Ghosts (Top Shelf). The guys begin their discussion by looking at the series as a whole -- even placing the trilogy within the larger context of Moore's League of Extraordinary Gentlemen universe -- and then exploring the accessibility of the text as a singular narrative. River of Ghosts certainly needs to stand alongside the first two Nemo volumes, Heart of Ice and The Roses of Berlin, but the intertextual demands imbedded in the story (and in the Nemo trilogy as a whole) are far fewer than they are in the League books. Indeed, the three-part story of Janni Dakkar, beginning in 1925 (in Heart of Ice) and wrapping up in 1987, where River of Ghosts concludes, reads more as an adventure tale to be enjoyed than as a literary text to be deciphered. Yet, the Nemo trilogy is still part of Moore's larger narrative tapestry, and its picaresque quality adds even further dimension to the already substantive League universe. Next, the Two Guys turn to the latest series from Brian Wood, Rebels (Dark Horse). In this inaugural issue, with art by Andrea Mutti, we get a good dose of historical fiction -- the New Hampshire Grants become pivotal, and Ethan Allen even makes an appearance -- but in many ways it's familiar territory to Wood. This first narrative arc's subtitle, "A Well-Regulated Militia," as well as the introductory premise embedded on the first page, suggest that this series may be similar to Wood's long-running DMZ in political and cultural tone. Although that one of his favorite series from the past decade, Derek hopes that the allegorical messaging found in DMZ doesn't become too heavy in Rebels. And Andy observes that perhaps the series will stick more closely to the kind of historically based fiction we find in Northlanders. Yet, despite a little confusion generated by the issue's central confrontation, a class between colonials and redcoats at the village courthouse, the guys found Rebels #1 a solid read and anticipate the series to come. Andy and Derek wrap up this week's show with a review of No Mercy #1 (Image), the new series from Alex de Campi and Carla Speed McNeil. What begins as a potentially light or trendy look at youth culture turns darker and more complex as the story develops. As de Campi makes clear in her comments at the end of this first issue, the lives and interactions of young adults are rich enough with drama without the usual genre-bendings or twists found in many contemporary narratives. There are no vampires, no otherworldly visitations, no anthropomorphic engagements. In No Mercy, we can expect to get real people from real contexts, and the story will be driven by their all-too-real desires and limitations. And in this first issue, we see de Campi and McNeil play out this premise to an uncertain, and unexpected, crescendo.

]]> 4675 no Interviews - More Tim Seeley http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews44-Seeley.mp3 At last weekend's Sumter Comic Arts Symposium, Andy sat down with Tim Seeley in front of a live con audience and talked with him about his various comics, including Grayson, Batman Eternal, Effigy, Revival, and Sundowners. Along with Ray Fawkes (not part of this interview), Tim was one of the special guests at this first-ever Sumter event, which is described on the Sumter county's website as “an event like no other. This fun-filled event celebrates some of the most exciting and innovative creators working in comics and graphic novels today. From colorful cosplayers, once-in-a-lifetime Q and A panels, to exhibitions highlighting comics-inspired artworks along with prized original comic art from local collectors and emerging comic artists, the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium is sure to be the highlight of the Spring season.” Tim has been on The Comics Alternative twice before, back in November 2012 soon after Revival began, and then September of last year to talk about Grayson and Sundowners. He now joins the proud pantheon of creators who have had multiple appearances on the podcast, including Craig Yoe and Andy Hirsch! Tue, 14 Apr 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Tim Time At last weekend's Sumter Comic Arts Symposium, Andy sat down with Tim Seeley in front of a live con audience and talked with him about his various comics, including Grayson, Batman Eternal, Effigy, Revival, and Sundowners. Along with Ray Fawkes (not part of this interview), Tim was one of the special guests at this first-ever Sumter event, which is described on the Sumter county's website as “an event like no other. This fun-filled event celebrates some of the most exciting and innovative creators working in comics and graphic novels today. From colorful cosplayers, once-in-a-lifetime Q and A panels, to exhibitions highlighting comics-inspired artworks along with prized original comic art from local collectors and emerging comic artists, the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium is sure to be the highlight of the Spring season.” Tim has been on The Comics Alternative twice before, back in November 2012 soon after Revival began, and then September of last year to talk about Grayson and Sundowners. He now joins the proud pantheon of creators who have had multiple appearances on the podcast, including Craig Yoe and Andy Hirsch! At last weekend's Sumter Comic Arts Symposium, Andy sat down with Tim Seeley in front of a live con audience and talked with him about his various comics, including Grayson, Batman Eternal, Effigy, Revival, and Sundowners. Along with Ray Fawkes (not part of this interview), Tim was one of the special guests at this first-ever Sumter event, which is described on the Sumter county's website as “an event like no other. This fun-filled event celebrates some of the most exciting and innovative creators working in comics and graphic novels today. From colorful cosplayers, once-in-a-lifetime Q and A panels, to exhibitions highlighting comics-inspired artworks along with prized original comic art from local collectors and emerging comic artists, the Sumter Comic Arts Symposium is sure to be the highlight of the Spring season.” Tim has been on The Comics Alternative twice before, back in November 2012 soon after Revival began, and then September of last year to talk about Grayson and Sundowners. He now joins the proud pantheon of creators who have had multiple appearances on the podcast, including Craig Yoe and Andy Hirsch!

]]> 2767 no Webcomics - Reviews of Henchgirl, Huge Hana, and Digger http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics5.mp3 Derek and Andy W. are back for another of their monthly webcomics episodes, and for April they discuss three exciting titles, two currently ongoing webcomics and one completed series. They begin with Kristen Gudsnuk's Henchgirl, the story of a young villain trying to find her way (and her fortune) in a world of super-powered crime. However, her heart and her relationships keep getting in the way, making her a unlikely and often-torn protagonist. As the Two Guys point out, this is more of a relationship-based story than a superhero one, and Gudsnuk is adept at showing the unglamorous and untold side of villainy. Manga-influenced and reminiscent of the style and tone of Scott Pilgrim, Henchgirl is probably a story aimed at a younger (Millennial?) readership, but it's humor and playfulness can be enjoyed by all. Next, the guys, not intending to be alliterative this month, discuss another H-heavy webcomic. Huge Hana is a relatively recent title created by Ian Burns, with a first installment posted on December 30, 2013, and an active Patreon campaign underway. As Andy describes it, it is a scientific science-fiction tale with a bit of Attack of the 50 Foot Woman thrown in and complete with devastating meteors, mutations, and enough of a medically based premise to set the Center for Disease Control on edge. It's the story of a young woman transformed into a giant and in search of answers to her dilemma, all the while trying to navigate a world that now sees her as a monster. Finally, the guys look at what could arguably called a "classic" in webcomics, Ursula Vernon's Digger. Running from February 2007 to March 2011, Digger is an epic that may have you reaching for your copy of Joseph Campbell's Hero with a Thousand Faces. It involves an anthropomorphic wombat far from home and in an unlikely team-up with the Hindu deity, Ganesh -- or at least a wooden statue of the god. Accompanied by an exiled hyena skin painter, a mentally unstable worshipper of Ganesh, and a shadow born of a white bird that just may be a demon, the story's hero, also known as the Digger-of-Unnecessarily-Convoluted-Tunnels, reluctantly undergoes a journey to uncover the source of evil magic that is gumming up the world. If you're a fan of such quest narratives as Tolkein's The Hobbit, Dave Sim's Cerebus, or Jeff Smith's Bone, then Digger is definitely a webcomic for you. Mon, 13 Apr 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Digging Down Deep Derek and Andy W. are back for another of their monthly webcomics episodes, and for April they discuss three exciting titles, two currently ongoing webcomics and one completed series. They begin with Kristen Gudsnuk's Henchgirl, the story of a young villain trying to find her way (and her fortune) in a world of super-powered crime. However, her heart and her relationships keep getting in the way, making her a unlikely and often-torn protagonist. As the Two Guys point out, this is more of a relationship-based story than a superhero one, and Gudsnuk is adept at showing the unglamorous and untold side of villainy. Manga-influenced and reminiscent of the style and tone of Scott Pilgrim, Henchgirl is probably a story aimed at a younger (Millennial?) readership, but it's humor and playfulness can be enjoyed by all. Next, the guys, not intending to be alliterative this month, discuss another H-heavy webcomic. Huge Hana is a relatively recent title created by Ian Burns, with a first installment posted on December 30, 2013, and an active Patreon campaign underway. As Andy describes it, it is a scientific science-fiction tale with a bit of Attack of the 50 Foot Woman thrown in and complete with devastating meteors, mutations, and enough of a medically based premise to set the Center for Disease Control on edge. It's the story of a young woman transformed into a giant and in search of answers to her dilemma, all the while trying to navigate a world that now sees her as a monster. Finally, the guys look at what could arguably called a "classic" in webcomics, Ursula Vernon's Digger. Running from February 2007 to March 2011, Digger is an epic that may have you reaching for your copy of Joseph Campbell's Hero with a Thousand Faces. It involves an anthropomorphic wombat far from home and in an unlikely team-up with the Hindu deity, Ganesh -- or at least a wooden statue of the god. Accompanied by an exiled hyena skin painter, a mentally unstable worshipper of Ganesh, and a shadow born of a white bird that just may be a demon, the story's hero, also known as the Digger-of-Unnecessarily-Convoluted-Tunnels, reluctantly undergoes a journey to uncover the source of evil magic that is gumming up the world. If you're a fan of such quest narratives as Tolkein's The Hobbit, Dave Sim's Cerebus, or Jeff Smith's Bone, then Digger is definitely a webcomic for you. Derek and Andy W. are back for another of their monthly webcomics episodes, and for April they discuss three exciting titles, two currently ongoing webcomics and one completed series. They begin with Kristen Gudsnuk's Henchgirl, the story of a young villain trying to find her way (and her fortune) in a world of super-powered crime. However, her heart and her relationships keep getting in the way, making her a unlikely and often-torn protagonist. As the Two Guys point out, this is more of a relationship-based story than a superhero one, and Gudsnuk is adept at showing the unglamorous and untold side of villainy. Manga-influenced and reminiscent of the style and tone of Scott Pilgrim, Henchgirl is probably a story aimed at a younger (Millennial?) readership, but it's humor and playfulness can be enjoyed by all. Next, the guys, not intending to be alliterative this month, discuss another H-heavy webcomic. Huge Hana is a relatively recent title created by Ian Burns, with a first installment posted on December 30, 2013, and an active Patreon campaign underway. As Andy describes it, it is a scientific science-fiction tale with a bit of Attack of the 50 Foot Woman thrown in and complete with devastating meteors, mutations, and enough of a medically based premise to set the Center for Disease Control on edge. It's the story of a young woman transformed into a giant and in search of answers to her dilemma, all the while trying to navigate a world that now sees her as a monster. Finally, the guys look at what could arguably called a "classic" in webcomics, Ursula Vernon's Digger. Running from February 2007 to March 2011, Digger is an epic that may have you reaching for your copy of Joseph Campbell's Hero with a Thousand Faces. It involves an anthropomorphic wombat far from home and in an unlikely team-up with the Hindu deity, Ganesh -- or at least a wooden statue of the god. Accompanied by an exiled hyena skin painter, a mentally unstable worshipper of Ganesh, and a shadow born of a white bird that just may be a demon, the story's hero, also known as the Digger-of-Unnecessarily-Convoluted-Tunnels, reluctantly undergoes a journey to uncover the source of evil magic that is gumming up the world. If you're a fan of such quest narratives as Tolkein's The Hobbit, Dave Sim's Cerebus, or Jeff Smith's Bone, then Digger is definitely a webcomic for you.

]]> 5888 no Episode 130 - Reviews of The Age of Selfishness, Lumberjanes Vol. 1, and Past Aways #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-130.mp3 On this episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek review three new titles, each of which is a brief glimpse into a facet of our diverse comics culture. They begin by looking at the new book from Darryl Cunningham, The Age of Selfishness: Ayn Rand, Morality, and the Financial Crisis (Abrams ComicArs). This work is an extended essay focusing on the life and philosophy of Rand, the contribution of her ideas to the 2008 financial crisis, and a general discussion on growing libertarian selfishness of Western culture. In fact, the book is divided into three parts, each of which is devoted to one of these three components. The guys discuss Cunningham's structural approach when presenting his arguments. Andy feels that the three parts work fairly well together, although Derek isn't as convinced that the book as a whole has the appropriate balance. For examples, the references to Rand's philosophy in the second part of the book, "The Crash," are sporadic and could have been more deeply ingrained. As a result, the transition from the first part of the text, a broad biography of Ayn Rand, to the discussion on the 2008 crash that follows seems to separate two different projects. Still, Cunningham is able to weave his points together through references to Rand's disciples, the most prominent of which is Alan Greenspan. The Age of Selfishness is definitely an editorializing work with a left-leaning bent -- which is OK with the guys -- although at times the author tries almost too hard to be evenhanded. Next, Derek and Andy talk about a comic that they've been meaning to discuss for some time, Lumberjanes (BOOM! Box). In their first collected trade, Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, and Brooke Allen introduce the adventuresome girl team by plunging readers directly into the thick of things, involving yetis, animated statues, werescouts, a mysterious bearwoman, and the subtitular "kitten holy." This initial volume collects the first four issues of the series, which began about a year ago. The guys wonder why it took so long to put out the first trade, and why this collection comprises only the first four comic books. Derek believes that issues #5, and perhaps even #6, could have been included in the first trade with it still retaining a coherent narrative. But the thing about Lumberjanes is that the storyline is tightly woven, to where it's difficult to determine where one arc ends and another begins. That's to the creators' benefit, as it suggests that they have a solid story to tell and that they're not merely writing with the typical trade cycle in mind. Finally, the Two Guys discuss the inaugural issue of the new series from Matt Kindt and Scott Kolins, Past Aways (Dark Horse). This is a time-travel  narrative, although one with a different twist. Five explorers from our future are trapped in the early twenty-first century, and after a year of being stranded, they drift apart with each going his or her separate way. The opening event in this first issue is what draws everyone back to a common purpose, so in many ways Past Aways has a superhero-ish "getting the team back together" kind of feel. The prelude to this new series actually appeared a couple of months ago in Dark Horse Presents #6 -- and the guys briefly discuss that story -- but readers do not have to have read that introduction to get into this first issue. Kindt is one of Andy and Derek's favorite creators, and they love Kolins's mainstream work in titles such as The Flash. So this new series will be a no-brainer for the guys. They're on board for the long haul! Wed, 08 Apr 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal What the Junk?! On this episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek review three new titles, each of which is a brief glimpse into a facet of our diverse comics culture. They begin by looking at the new book from Darryl Cunningham, The Age of Selfishness: Ayn Rand, Morality, and the Financial Crisis (Abrams ComicArs). This work is an extended essay focusing on the life and philosophy of Rand, the contribution of her ideas to the 2008 financial crisis, and a general discussion on growing libertarian selfishness of Western culture. In fact, the book is divided into three parts, each of which is devoted to one of these three components. The guys discuss Cunningham's structural approach when presenting his arguments. Andy feels that the three parts work fairly well together, although Derek isn't as convinced that the book as a whole has the appropriate balance. For examples, the references to Rand's philosophy in the second part of the book, "The Crash," are sporadic and could have been more deeply ingrained. As a result, the transition from the first part of the text, a broad biography of Ayn Rand, to the discussion on the 2008 crash that follows seems to separate two different projects. Still, Cunningham is able to weave his points together through references to Rand's disciples, the most prominent of which is Alan Greenspan. The Age of Selfishness is definitely an editorializing work with a left-leaning bent -- which is OK with the guys -- although at times the author tries almost too hard to be evenhanded. Next, Derek and Andy talk about a comic that they've been meaning to discuss for some time, Lumberjanes (BOOM! Box). In their first collected trade, Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, and Brooke Allen introduce the adventuresome girl team by plunging readers directly into the thick of things, involving yetis, animated statues, werescouts, a mysterious bearwoman, and the subtitular "kitten holy." This initial volume collects the first four issues of the series, which began about a year ago. The guys wonder why it took so long to put out the first trade, and why this collection comprises only the first four comic books. Derek believes that issues #5, and perhaps even #6, could have been included in the first trade with it still retaining a coherent narrative. But the thing about Lumberjanes is that the storyline is tightly woven, to where it's difficult to determine where one arc ends and another begins. That's to the creators' benefit, as it suggests that they have a solid story to tell and that they're not merely writing with the typical trade cycle in mind. Finally, the Two Guys discuss the inaugural issue of the new series from Matt Kindt and Scott Kolins, Past Aways (Dark Horse). This is a time-travel  narrative, although one with a different twist. Five explorers from our future are trapped in the early twenty-first century, and after a year of being stranded, they drift apart with each going his or her separate way. The opening event in this first issue is what draws everyone back to a common purpose, so in many ways Past Aways has a superhero-ish "getting the team back together" kind of feel. The prelude to this new series actually appeared a couple of months ago in Dark Horse Presents #6 -- and the guys briefly discuss that story -- but readers do not have to have read that introduction to get into this first issue. Kindt is one of Andy and Derek's favorite creators, and they love Kolins's mainstream work in titles such as The Flash. So this new series will be a no-brainer for the guys. They're on board for the long haul! On this episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek review three new titles, each of which is a brief glimpse into a facet of our diverse comics culture. They begin by looking at the new book from Darryl Cunningham, The Age of Selfishness: Ayn Rand, Morality, and the Financial Crisis (Abrams ComicArs). This work is an extended essay focusing on the life and philosophy of Rand, the contribution of her ideas to the 2008 financial crisis, and a general discussion on growing libertarian selfishness of Western culture. In fact, the book is divided into three parts, each of which is devoted to one of these three components. The guys discuss Cunningham's structural approach when presenting his arguments. Andy feels that the three parts work fairly well together, although Derek isn't as convinced that the book as a whole has the appropriate balance. For examples, the references to Rand's philosophy in the second part of the book, "The Crash," are sporadic and could have been more deeply ingrained. As a result, the transition from the first part of the text, a broad biography of Ayn Rand, to the discussion on the 2008 crash that follows seems to separate two different projects. Still, Cunningham is able to weave his points together through references to Rand's disciples, the most prominent of which is Alan Greenspan. The Age of Selfishness is definitely an editorializing work with a left-leaning bent -- which is OK with the guys -- although at times the author tries almost too hard to be evenhanded. Next, Derek and Andy talk about a comic that they've been meaning to discuss for some time, Lumberjanes (BOOM! Box). In their first collected trade, Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, and Brooke Allen introduce the adventuresome girl team by plunging readers directly into the thick of things, involving yetis, animated statues, werescouts, a mysterious bearwoman, and the subtitular "kitten holy." This initial volume collects the first four issues of the series, which began about a year ago. The guys wonder why it took so long to put out the first trade, and why this collection comprises only the first four comic books. Derek believes that issues #5, and perhaps even #6, could have been included in the first trade with it still retaining a coherent narrative. But the thing about Lumberjanes is that the storyline is tightly woven, to where it's difficult to determine where one arc ends and another begins. That's to the creators' benefit, as it suggests that they have a solid story to tell and that they're not merely writing with the typical trade cycle in mind. Finally, the Two Guys discuss the inaugural issue of the new series from Matt Kindt and Scott Kolins, Past Aways (Dark Horse). This is a time-travel  narrative, although one with a different twist. Five explorers from our future are trapped in the early twenty-first century, and after a year of being stranded, they drift apart with each going his or her separate way. The opening event in this first issue is what draws everyone back to a common purpose, so in many ways Past Aways has a superhero-ish "getting the team back together" kind of feel. The prelude to this new series actually appeared a couple of months ago in Dark Horse Presents #6 -- and the guys briefly discuss that story -- but readers do not have to have read that introduction to get into this first issue. Kindt is one of Andy and Derek's favorite creators, and they love Kolins's mainstream work in titles such as The Flash. So this new series will be a no-brainer for the guys. They're on board for the long haul!

]]> 5421 no Interviews - Charles Soule http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews43-Soule.mp3 On this episode of the interview show, Derek talks with Charles Soule about his most recent creator-own works, specifically Strange Attractors (Archaia) and the currently ongoing Letter 44 (Oni Press). They spend most of their time discussing the latter and the various narrative threads and subplots interwoven within the series. In their conversation, Charles tells Derek about the extent of his research for the title, his love of NASA history, the intrigue of writing political drama, and the ways in which his background in law helped give birth to series' premise.  They also discuss the contemporary rootedness of Letter 44 and the extent to which recent presidential history plays out in its storyline, albeit ramped up and taken to speculative extremes. Much of the conversation is also devoted to Strange Attractors, a book similar to Letter 44 with a high concept and a keen scientific bent. Charles explains how his interest in complexity theory and his love of New York City combine to create an unlikely sci-fi drama. But even though Derek is mostly interested in his non-mainstream work, he nonetheless asks Charles about his efforts in the DC and Marvel Universes -- e.g., his experiences writing Swamp Thing, Death of Wolverine, Superman/Wonder Woman, and She-Hulk -- how he balances the superhero narratives with his creator-owned work, and the ways he negotiates both franchise limitations and fanboy expectations. All in all, it's a fun interview, with listeners being able to hear about creative facets of Charles Soule that rarely surface in interviews. Fri, 03 Apr 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal House of Cards Meets 2001 Meets West Wing Meets Alien On this episode of the interview show, Derek talks with Charles Soule about his most recent creator-own works, specifically Strange Attractors (Archaia) and the currently ongoing Letter 44 (Oni Press). They spend most of their time discussing the latter and the various narrative threads and subplots interwoven within the series. In their conversation, Charles tells Derek about the extent of his research for the title, his love of NASA history, the intrigue of writing political drama, and the ways in which his background in law helped give birth to series' premise.  They also discuss the contemporary rootedness of Letter 44 and the extent to which recent presidential history plays out in its storyline, albeit ramped up and taken to speculative extremes. Much of the conversation is also devoted to Strange Attractors, a book similar to Letter 44 with a high concept and a keen scientific bent. Charles explains how his interest in complexity theory and his love of New York City combine to create an unlikely sci-fi drama. But even though Derek is mostly interested in his non-mainstream work, he nonetheless asks Charles about his efforts in the DC and Marvel Universes -- e.g., his experiences writing Swamp Thing, Death of Wolverine, Superman/Wonder Woman, and She-Hulk -- how he balances the superhero narratives with his creator-owned work, and the ways he negotiates both franchise limitations and fanboy expectations. All in all, it's a fun interview, with listeners being able to hear about creative facets of Charles Soule that rarely surface in interviews. On this episode of the interview show, Derek talks with Charles Soule about his most recent creator-own works, specifically Strange Attractors (Archaia) and the currently ongoing Letter 44 (Oni Press). They spend most of their time discussing the latter and the various narrative threads and subplots interwoven within the series. In their conversation, Charles tells Derek about the extent of his research for the title, his love of NASA history, the intrigue of writing political drama, and the ways in which his background in law helped give birth to series' premise.  They also discuss the contemporary rootedness of Letter 44 and the extent to which recent presidential history plays out in its storyline, albeit ramped up and taken to speculative extremes. Much of the conversation is also devoted to Strange Attractors, a book similar to Letter 44 with a high concept and a keen scientific bent. Charles explains how his interest in complexity theory and his love of New York City combine to create an unlikely sci-fi drama. But even though Derek is mostly interested in his non-mainstream work, he nonetheless asks Charles about his efforts in the DC and Marvel Universes -- e.g., his experiences writing Swamp Thing, Death of Wolverine, Superman/Wonder Woman, and She-Hulk -- how he balances the superhero narratives with his creator-owned work, and the ways he negotiates both franchise limitations and fanboy expectations. All in all, it's a fun interview, with listeners being able to hear about creative facets of Charles Soule that rarely surface in interviews.

]]> 3873 no Episode 129 - The April Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-129.mp3 It's the first of the month, so that means that Andy and Derek flip through the latest Previews catalog and share some of the upcoming releases they are most excited about. And April is jam-packed with solicits worth highlighting...which is one of the reasons why this week's episode is extra long. After sharing a bit of listener mail -- and it's always great to get letters, so keep those correspondences a-comin'! -- the guys jump into this month's offerings, beginning where they usually do with Dark Horse Comics. There they find intriguing titles such as Black Hammer #1, Bowery Boys: Our Fathers, Nanjing: The Burning City, and The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Omnibus, Book 1. After a brief conversational detour about DC's Convergence event and the controversy surrounding Rafael Albuquerque's variant cover for Batgirl #41, the Two Guys highlight Will Eisner's The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years and the final issue of Fables (pulling double duty as issue #150 and volume 22 of the trade paperbacks), both from DC/Vertigo. From there the good stuff just keeps on coming, including upcoming titles such as Long Distance #1, Bacchus Ominbus Edition Vol. One, American Barbarian: The Complete Series, and Bravo for Adventures (all from IDW Publishing); Airboy #1, Starve #1, 8House: Arclight #1, Empty Zone #1, Astronauts in Trouble #1, Nonplayer #1, and the XXX variant of Sex Criminals #11 (Image Comics); Pope Hats #4 (AdHouse); Death in Oaxaca #2 and The Hic Hoc Illustrated Journal of Humor Vol. 1 (Alternative Comics); Mark Waid and Fiona Staples's Archie #1 (Archie Comics); The Fiction #1, Strange Fruit #1, and Broken World #1 (BOOM! Studios); Towerkind (Conundrum Press); the new edition of DeMatteis and Johnson's Mercy (Dover Publications); Showa: A History of Japan, 1953-1989 (Drawn and Quarterly); Dörfler, Leaf, Not Funny Ha-Ha: A Handbooks for Something Hard, Blubber #1, and Demons and Angels: The Mythology of S. Clay Wilson, Vol. 2 (Fantagraphic Books); Last Man, Vol. 2: The Royal Cup and Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv (First Second); Anomal (Gen Manga Entertainment); Re*Pro*Duct (Magnetic Press); Borb (Uncivilized Books); Junji Ito's Fragments of Horror (Viz Media); and The League of Regrettable Superheroes (Quirk Books). Derek and Andy also give a shout-out to all of their Patreon supporters out there, especially thanking for this week the several new $1/month backers. A big ol' hearty THANK YOU everyone! Wed, 01 Apr 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "The Schrodinger's cat of comics" It's the first of the month, so that means that Andy and Derek flip through the latest Previews catalog and share some of the upcoming releases they are most excited about. And April is jam-packed with solicits worth highlighting...which is one of the reasons why this week's episode is extra long. After sharing a bit of listener mail -- and it's always great to get letters, so keep those correspondences a-comin'! -- the guys jump into this month's offerings, beginning where they usually do with Dark Horse Comics. There they find intriguing titles such as Black Hammer #1, Bowery Boys: Our Fathers, Nanjing: The Burning City, and The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Omnibus, Book 1. After a brief conversational detour about DC's Convergence event and the controversy surrounding Rafael Albuquerque's variant cover for Batgirl #41, the Two Guys highlight Will Eisner's The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years and the final issue of Fables (pulling double duty as issue #150 and volume 22 of the trade paperbacks), both from DC/Vertigo. From there the good stuff just keeps on coming, including upcoming titles such as Long Distance #1, Bacchus Ominbus Edition Vol. One, American Barbarian: The Complete Series, and Bravo for Adventures (all from IDW Publishing); Airboy #1, Starve #1, 8House: Arclight #1, Empty Zone #1, Astronauts in Trouble #1, Nonplayer #1, and the XXX variant of Sex Criminals #11 (Image Comics); Pope Hats #4 (AdHouse); Death in Oaxaca #2 and The Hic Hoc Illustrated Journal of Humor Vol. 1 (Alternative Comics); Mark Waid and Fiona Staples's Archie #1 (Archie Comics); The Fiction #1, Strange Fruit #1, and Broken World #1 (BOOM! Studios); Towerkind (Conundrum Press); the new edition of DeMatteis and Johnson's Mercy (Dover Publications); Showa: A History of Japan, 1953-1989 (Drawn and Quarterly); Dörfler, Leaf, Not Funny Ha-Ha: A Handbooks for Something Hard, Blubber #1, and Demons and Angels: The Mythology of S. Clay Wilson, Vol. 2 (Fantagraphic Books); Last Man, Vol. 2: The Royal Cup and Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv (First Second); Anomal (Gen Manga Entertainment); Re*Pro*Duct (Magnetic Press); Borb (Uncivilized Books); Junji Ito's Fragments of Horror (Viz Media); and The League of Regrettable Superheroes (Quirk Books). Derek and Andy also give a shout-out to all of their Patreon supporters out there, especially thanking for this week the several new $1/month backers. A big ol' hearty THANK YOU everyone! It's the first of the month, so that means that Andy and Derek flip through the latest Previews catalog and share some of the upcoming releases they are most excited about. And April is jam-packed with solicits worth highlighting...which is one of the reasons why this week's episode is extra long. After sharing a bit of listener mail -- and it's always great to get letters, so keep those correspondences a-comin'! -- the guys jump into this month's offerings, beginning where they usually do with Dark Horse Comics. There they find intriguing titles such as Black Hammer #1, Bowery Boys: Our Fathers, Nanjing: The Burning City, and The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service Omnibus, Book 1. After a brief conversational detour about DC's Convergence event and the controversy surrounding Rafael Albuquerque's variant cover for Batgirl #41, the Two Guys highlight Will Eisner's The Spirit: A Celebration of 75 Years and the final issue of Fables (pulling double duty as issue #150 and volume 22 of the trade paperbacks), both from DC/Vertigo. From there the good stuff just keeps on coming, including upcoming titles such as Long Distance #1, Bacchus Ominbus Edition Vol. One, American Barbarian: The Complete Series, and Bravo for Adventures (all from IDW Publishing); Airboy #1, Starve #1, 8House: Arclight #1, Empty Zone #1, Astronauts in Trouble #1, Nonplayer #1, and the XXX variant of Sex Criminals #11 (Image Comics); Pope Hats #4 (AdHouse); Death in Oaxaca #2 and The Hic Hoc Illustrated Journal of Humor Vol. 1 (Alternative Comics); Mark Waid and Fiona Staples's Archie #1 (Archie Comics); The Fiction #1, Strange Fruit #1, and Broken World #1 (BOOM! Studios); Towerkind (Conundrum Press); the new edition of DeMatteis and Johnson's Mercy (Dover Publications); Showa: A History of Japan, 1953-1989 (Drawn and Quarterly); Dörfler, Leaf, Not Funny Ha-Ha: A Handbooks for Something Hard, Blubber #1, and Demons and Angels: The Mythology of S. Clay Wilson, Vol. 2 (Fantagraphic Books); Last Man, Vol. 2: The Royal Cup and Mike's Place: A True Story of Love, Blues, and Terror in Tel Aviv (First Second); Anomal (Gen Manga Entertainment); Re*Pro*Duct (Magnetic Press); Borb (Uncivilized Books); Junji Ito's Fragments of Horror (Viz Media); and The League of Regrettable Superheroes (Quirk Books). Derek and Andy also give a shout-out to all of their Patreon supporters out there, especially thanking for this week the several new $1/month backers. A big ol' hearty THANK YOU everyone!

]]> 7811 no Interviews - Noah Van Sciver http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews42-VanSciver.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are glad to have on their show Noah Van Sciver, the creator behind the series Blammo as well as the recently published Saint Cole (Fantagraphics). The guys talk with Noah about the genesis of Saint Cole and how this became his follow-up graphic novel to The Hypo: The Melancholic Young Lincoln. For that matter, they're even more curious to know why the artist chose our depressive sixteen president as his first long-form focus. While historical narratives aren't unusual for Noah -- he addresses the great 1863 Denver fire in his comic, A City of Whiskey and Fire (with Daniel Landes) -- he's quick to point out that he's not a historically based cartoonist, as, for example, you might find in someone like Rick Geary. In fact, Noah tells Derek and Andy that he resists any kind of pigeonholing, even bristling at any attempts to place his work in the company of Robert Crumb or Chester Brown. He prefers to be a chameleon, changing up his subject matter at will, much like Leonard Zelig does in Zelig. And here is where the Two Guys demonstrate their characteristic talents for taking their interviewees into unlikely tangential realms. Throughout their conversation, Woody Allen becomes the topic that the guys keep returning to, especially since Noah is a big Allen fan. The creator even reveals that he's currently working on project in the vein of Stardust Memories, a story about a successful artist who goes to a convention but feels alienated from his fans while he depressively reevaluates his life. But the conversation never evolves, or devolves, completely into a Woodyfest. There's plenty of talk on Van Sciver's Blammo series, his AdHouse collection Youth Is Wasted, his strips 4 Questions and Rufus Baxter, the World's Oldest Unknown Rock Star for Westword, the Denver comics scene, his relationship with Kilgore Books and Comics, his desire to create a comic with a large ensemble cast, and his upcoming project for Fantagraphics, Fante Bukowski. So all in all, in this interview you get previews, you get insights, you get laughs, and you get a little cinematic Woody. What more could you ask for? Fri, 27 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Woody The Two Guys with PhDs are glad to have on their show Noah Van Sciver, the creator behind the series Blammo as well as the recently published Saint Cole (Fantagraphics). The guys talk with Noah about the genesis of Saint Cole and how this became his follow-up graphic novel to The Hypo: The Melancholic Young Lincoln. For that matter, they're even more curious to know why the artist chose our depressive sixteen president as his first long-form focus. While historical narratives aren't unusual for Noah -- he addresses the great 1863 Denver fire in his comic, A City of Whiskey and Fire (with Daniel Landes) -- he's quick to point out that he's not a historically based cartoonist, as, for example, you might find in someone like Rick Geary. In fact, Noah tells Derek and Andy that he resists any kind of pigeonholing, even bristling at any attempts to place his work in the company of Robert Crumb or Chester Brown. He prefers to be a chameleon, changing up his subject matter at will, much like Leonard Zelig does in Zelig. And here is where the Two Guys demonstrate their characteristic talents for taking their interviewees into unlikely tangential realms. Throughout their conversation, Woody Allen becomes the topic that the guys keep returning to, especially since Noah is a big Allen fan. The creator even reveals that he's currently working on project in the vein of Stardust Memories, a story about a successful artist who goes to a convention but feels alienated from his fans while he depressively reevaluates his life. But the conversation never evolves, or devolves, completely into a Woodyfest. There's plenty of talk on Van Sciver's Blammo series, his AdHouse collection Youth Is Wasted, his strips 4 Questions and Rufus Baxter, the World's Oldest Unknown Rock Star for Westword, the Denver comics scene, his relationship with Kilgore Books and Comics, his desire to create a comic with a large ensemble cast, and his upcoming project for Fantagraphics, Fante Bukowski. So all in all, in this interview you get previews, you get insights, you get laughs, and you get a little cinematic Woody. What more could you ask for? The Two Guys with PhDs are glad to have on their show Noah Van Sciver, the creator behind the series Blammo as well as the recently published Saint Cole (Fantagraphics). The guys talk with Noah about the genesis of Saint Cole and how this became his follow-up graphic novel to The Hypo: The Melancholic Young Lincoln. For that matter, they're even more curious to know why the artist chose our depressive sixteen president as his first long-form focus. While historical narratives aren't unusual for Noah -- he addresses the great 1863 Denver fire in his comic, A City of Whiskey and Fire (with Daniel Landes) -- he's quick to point out that he's not a historically based cartoonist, as, for example, you might find in someone like Rick Geary. In fact, Noah tells Derek and Andy that he resists any kind of pigeonholing, even bristling at any attempts to place his work in the company of Robert Crumb or Chester Brown. He prefers to be a chameleon, changing up his subject matter at will, much like Leonard Zelig does in Zelig. And here is where the Two Guys demonstrate their characteristic talents for taking their interviewees into unlikely tangential realms. Throughout their conversation, Woody Allen becomes the topic that the guys keep returning to, especially since Noah is a big Allen fan. The creator even reveals that he's currently working on project in the vein of Stardust Memories, a story about a successful artist who goes to a convention but feels alienated from his fans while he depressively reevaluates his life. But the conversation never evolves, or devolves, completely into a Woodyfest. There's plenty of talk on Van Sciver's Blammo series, his AdHouse collection Youth Is Wasted, his strips 4 Questions and Rufus Baxter, the World's Oldest Unknown Rock Star for Westword, the Denver comics scene, his relationship with Kilgore Books and Comics, his desire to create a comic with a large ensemble cast, and his upcoming project for Fantagraphics, Fante Bukowski. So all in all, in this interview you get previews, you get insights, you get laughs, and you get a little cinematic Woody. What more could you ask for?

]]> 3521 yes Episode 128 - Reviews of Tex the Lonesome Rider, Sweatshop, and Criminal Special Edition http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-128.mp3 This week, Derek and Andy W. discuss recent titles that span the genre spectrum. First they look at the new release from Dark Horse, the English-language release of Claudio Nizzi and Joe Kubert's Tex the Lonesome Rider. Based on the famous American Western character created in 1948 by Giovanni Luigi Bonelli, this book was originally released in Italian and is now being published in the states in a beautiful hardbound volume. (Dark Horse had released the first part of this story in 2005 as Four Killers, Vol. 1: The Bartlett Brothers, and that same year SAF Comics published the entire story in English, but those books are long out of print.) The guys approach Nizzi's treatment of Tex Willer as a classic Western, but one that isn't afraid to delve into the darker, violent side of the genre. In fact, Andy argues that much of the story, underscored by Kubert's art, owes a debt to noir narrative, and that one could arguably read this as Western noir. Although Tex is a famous figure in Italian comics, he is much less known in the United States, and indeed, both Derek and Andy admit that before this new release, they didn't know much of anything about Tex and his history. But Tex the Lonesome Rider is the prefect introduction to the character, meticulously rendered by the legendary Kubert, and the guys hope that there will be more translated Tex stories to come. Next, they review the new collection from Peter Bagge, Sweatshop (Fantagraphics). Although this book was just released, Sweatshop isn't a new comic. It was first serialized by DC Comics during the last half of 2003, but it was canceled after only six issues. Now, the short-lived series is finally collected in a trade paperback, and if you're not familiar with the work of Peter Bagge, then this would be the prefect place to start. Reminiscent of Bagge's classic Hate, the story revolves around a self-centered and crotchety newspaper cartoonist and the young people he has working for him on the strip. Illustrated not only by Bagge, but also by Stephen DeStafano, Johnny Ryan, Stephanie Gladden, and Bill Wray, Sweatshop is a humorous, and at times sarcastically biting, look at the comics industry and the personalities that strut across its stage. Finally, Andy and Derek leap into Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal Special Edition (Image), a one-shot oversized comic that takes us back into the creators' seminal world of noir. Released to help draw attention to the new editions of Criminal published through Image -- the original series came out through Marvel's Icon imprint between 2006 and 2011 -- this special edition is also an homage to the kind of sword-and-sorcery magazine-sized comics that appeared in the 1970s. The result is not only a curious pairing of genres, but more significantly, a narratively sophisticated return to a noir world that would eventually lead to such titles as Fatale and The Fade Out. If you're a fan of crime comics, Criminal Special Edition is essential reading. Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Genre Smorgasbord This week, Derek and Andy W. discuss recent titles that span the genre spectrum. First they look at the new release from Dark Horse, the English-language release of Claudio Nizzi and Joe Kubert's Tex the Lonesome Rider. Based on the famous American Western character created in 1948 by Giovanni Luigi Bonelli, this book was originally released in Italian and is now being published in the states in a beautiful hardbound volume. (Dark Horse had released the first part of this story in 2005 as Four Killers, Vol. 1: The Bartlett Brothers, and that same year SAF Comics published the entire story in English, but those books are long out of print.) The guys approach Nizzi's treatment of Tex Willer as a classic Western, but one that isn't afraid to delve into the darker, violent side of the genre. In fact, Andy argues that much of the story, underscored by Kubert's art, owes a debt to noir narrative, and that one could arguably read this as Western noir. Although Tex is a famous figure in Italian comics, he is much less known in the United States, and indeed, both Derek and Andy admit that before this new release, they didn't know much of anything about Tex and his history. But Tex the Lonesome Rider is the prefect introduction to the character, meticulously rendered by the legendary Kubert, and the guys hope that there will be more translated Tex stories to come. Next, they review the new collection from Peter Bagge, Sweatshop (Fantagraphics). Although this book was just released, Sweatshop isn't a new comic. It was first serialized by DC Comics during the last half of 2003, but it was canceled after only six issues. Now, the short-lived series is finally collected in a trade paperback, and if you're not familiar with the work of Peter Bagge, then this would be the prefect place to start. Reminiscent of Bagge's classic Hate, the story revolves around a self-centered and crotchety newspaper cartoonist and the young people he has working for him on the strip. Illustrated not only by Bagge, but also by Stephen DeStafano, Johnny Ryan, Stephanie Gladden, and Bill Wray, Sweatshop is a humorous, and at times sarcastically biting, look at the comics industry and the personalities that strut across its stage. Finally, Andy and Derek leap into Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal Special Edition (Image), a one-shot oversized comic that takes us back into the creators' seminal world of noir. Released to help draw attention to the new editions of Criminal published through Image -- the original series came out through Marvel's Icon imprint between 2006 and 2011 -- this special edition is also an homage to the kind of sword-and-sorcery magazine-sized comics that appeared in the 1970s. The result is not only a curious pairing of genres, but more significantly, a narratively sophisticated return to a noir world that would eventually lead to such titles as Fatale and The Fade Out. If you're a fan of crime comics, Criminal Special Edition is essential reading. This week, Derek and Andy W. discuss recent titles that span the genre spectrum. First they look at the new release from Dark Horse, the English-language release of Claudio Nizzi and Joe Kubert's Tex the Lonesome Rider. Based on the famous American Western character created in 1948 by Giovanni Luigi Bonelli, this book was originally released in Italian and is now being published in the states in a beautiful hardbound volume. (Dark Horse had released the first part of this story in 2005 as Four Killers, Vol. 1: The Bartlett Brothers, and that same year SAF Comics published the entire story in English, but those books are long out of print.) The guys approach Nizzi's treatment of Tex Willer as a classic Western, but one that isn't afraid to delve into the darker, violent side of the genre. In fact, Andy argues that much of the story, underscored by Kubert's art, owes a debt to noir narrative, and that one could arguably read this as Western noir. Although Tex is a famous figure in Italian comics, he is much less known in the United States, and indeed, both Derek and Andy admit that before this new release, they didn't know much of anything about Tex and his history. But Tex the Lonesome Rider is the prefect introduction to the character, meticulously rendered by the legendary Kubert, and the guys hope that there will be more translated Tex stories to come. Next, they review the new collection from Peter Bagge, Sweatshop (Fantagraphics). Although this book was just released, Sweatshop isn't a new comic. It was first serialized by DC Comics during the last half of 2003, but it was canceled after only six issues. Now, the short-lived series is finally collected in a trade paperback, and if you're not familiar with the work of Peter Bagge, then this would be the prefect place to start. Reminiscent of Bagge's classic Hate, the story revolves around a self-centered and crotchety newspaper cartoonist and the young people he has working for him on the strip. Illustrated not only by Bagge, but also by Stephen DeStafano, Johnny Ryan, Stephanie Gladden, and Bill Wray, Sweatshop is a humorous, and at times sarcastically biting, look at the comics industry and the personalities that strut across its stage. Finally, Andy and Derek leap into Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's Criminal Special Edition (Image), a one-shot oversized comic that takes us back into the creators' seminal world of noir. Released to help draw attention to the new editions of Criminal published through Image -- the original series came out through Marvel's Icon imprint between 2006 and 2011 -- this special edition is also an homage to the kind of sword-and-sorcery magazine-sized comics that appeared in the 1970s. The result is not only a curious pairing of genres, but more significantly, a narratively sophisticated return to a noir world that would eventually lead to such titles as Fatale and The Fade Out. If you're a fan of crime comics, Criminal Special Edition is essential reading.

]]> 5021 no Interviews - Dylan Horrocks http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews41-Horrocks.mp3 For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. are pleased to have as their guest the man behind Hicksville, Dylan Horrocks. His new book, Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen, has recently been released by Fantagraphics, and on the show the guys talk with Dylan about his experiences writing the book and the philosophy underlying its creation. They begin by discussing its initial black-and-white serialization in Atlas (which lasted for only three issues between 2001 and 2006), and then was slowly released in color as an online comic beginning in early 2009. Indeed, as of the time of this interview, Dylan is still publishing the final pages of Sam Zabel on his website, so that the entire story will eventually be available digitally. However, readers will want to get the new hardbound copy in order to experience a full story immersion with its larger size format and its richness of color. The guys also ask Dylan about the narrative links between the new book and his other stories, most notably Hicksville, as well as any possible autobiographic significance in the character Sam. This leads to an in-depth discussion on the function of comics, the dynamics between fiction and autobiographic representation, and the moral implications of fantasy and self-censorship. In fact, Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen is predicated on these dynamics, with its characters posing multiple positions or viewpoints that are never truly resolved. Instead of being a polemic or a didactic on the ethical responsibilities of the artist -- as some readers have interpreted it -- Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen is more an exercise in romantic irony, proposing conflicting and at times contradictory arguments that refuse any easy resolution, and instead, resides in an uneasy state of productive indeterminacy. In other words, the book's resonance rests more in the questions it raises than in any possible answers. Andy and Derek also talk with Dylan about the publishing history of Pickle, his work for DC -- specifically, his writing on Batgirl -- the Vertigo series Hunter: The Age of Magic, and, of course, his efforts championing New Zealand comics and underscoring its rich history. Much of the conversation revolved around the New Zealand comics scene, past and present, with Dylan demonstrating himself to be one of its most ardent enthusiasts. (Indeed, you can find his directory of New Zealand cartoonists and comics creators on his website.) Even though this was a substantive interview, Derek and Andy didn't get around to asking many of the questions that they had wanted to pose -- e.g., Will you ever return to the unfinished "Atlas" storyline?, Will "Cafe Underground" ever be collected?, and When can we expect to see more Moxie and Toxie? -- but what they came away with was a truly engaging conversation with one of the most exciting, and one of the most underrated, creators in comics today. Fri, 20 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Our Man in Hicksville For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. are pleased to have as their guest the man behind Hicksville, Dylan Horrocks. His new book, Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen, has recently been released by Fantagraphics, and on the show the guys talk with Dylan about his experiences writing the book and the philosophy underlying its creation. They begin by discussing its initial black-and-white serialization in Atlas (which lasted for only three issues between 2001 and 2006), and then was slowly released in color as an online comic beginning in early 2009. Indeed, as of the time of this interview, Dylan is still publishing the final pages of Sam Zabel on his website, so that the entire story will eventually be available digitally. However, readers will want to get the new hardbound copy in order to experience a full story immersion with its larger size format and its richness of color. The guys also ask Dylan about the narrative links between the new book and his other stories, most notably Hicksville, as well as any possible autobiographic significance in the character Sam. This leads to an in-depth discussion on the function of comics, the dynamics between fiction and autobiographic representation, and the moral implications of fantasy and self-censorship. In fact, Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen is predicated on these dynamics, with its characters posing multiple positions or viewpoints that are never truly resolved. Instead of being a polemic or a didactic on the ethical responsibilities of the artist -- as some readers have interpreted it -- Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen is more an exercise in romantic irony, proposing conflicting and at times contradictory arguments that refuse any easy resolution, and instead, resides in an uneasy state of productive indeterminacy. In other words, the book's resonance rests more in the questions it raises than in any possible answers. Andy and Derek also talk with Dylan about the publishing history of Pickle, his work for DC -- specifically, his writing on Batgirl -- the Vertigo series Hunter: The Age of Magic, and, of course, his efforts championing New Zealand comics and underscoring its rich history. Much of the conversation revolved around the New Zealand comics scene, past and present, with Dylan demonstrating himself to be one of its most ardent enthusiasts. (Indeed, you can find his directory of New Zealand cartoonists and comics creators on his website.) Even though this was a substantive interview, Derek and Andy didn't get around to asking many of the questions that they had wanted to pose -- e.g., Will you ever return to the unfinished "Atlas" storyline?, Will "Cafe Underground" ever be collected?, and When can we expect to see more Moxie and Toxie? -- but what they came away with was a truly engaging conversation with one of the most exciting, and one of the most underrated, creators in comics today. For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. are pleased to have as their guest the man behind Hicksville, Dylan Horrocks. His new book, Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen, has recently been released by Fantagraphics, and on the show the guys talk with Dylan about his experiences writing the book and the philosophy underlying its creation. They begin by discussing its initial black-and-white serialization in Atlas (which lasted for only three issues between 2001 and 2006), and then was slowly released in color as an online comic beginning in early 2009. Indeed, as of the time of this interview, Dylan is still publishing the final pages of Sam Zabel on his website, so that the entire story will eventually be available digitally. However, readers will want to get the new hardbound copy in order to experience a full story immersion with its larger size format and its richness of color. The guys also ask Dylan about the narrative links between the new book and his other stories, most notably Hicksville, as well as any possible autobiographic significance in the character Sam. This leads to an in-depth discussion on the function of comics, the dynamics between fiction and autobiographic representation, and the moral implications of fantasy and self-censorship. In fact, Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen is predicated on these dynamics, with its characters posing multiple positions or viewpoints that are never truly resolved. Instead of being a polemic or a didactic on the ethical responsibilities of the artist -- as some readers have interpreted it -- Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen is more an exercise in romantic irony, proposing conflicting and at times contradictory arguments that refuse any easy resolution, and instead, resides in an uneasy state of productive indeterminacy. In other words, the book's resonance rests more in the questions it raises than in any possible answers. Andy and Derek also talk with Dylan about the publishing history of Pickle, his work for DC -- specifically, his writing on Batgirl -- the Vertigo series Hunter: The Age of Magic, and, of course, his efforts championing New Zealand comics and underscoring its rich history. Much of the conversation revolved around the New Zealand comics scene, past and present, with Dylan demonstrating himself to be one of its most ardent enthusiasts. (Indeed, you can find his directory of New Zealand cartoonists and comics creators on his website.) Even though this was a substantive interview, Derek and Andy didn't get around to asking many of the questions that they had wanted to pose -- e.g., Will you ever return to the unfinished "Atlas" storyline?, Will "Cafe Underground" ever be collected?, and When can we expect to see more Moxie and Toxie? -- but what they came away with was a truly engaging conversation with one of the most exciting, and one of the most underrated, creators in comics today.

]]> 6793 no Episode 127 - Reviews of Love and Rockets: New Stories No 7, Terrorist, and The Other Side of the Wall http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-127.mp3 On this week's episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three exciting new titles. The first is the latest volume of the Hernandez brothers' Love and Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics). It's alway a fun show when the guys get to discuss works by Jaime and/or Gilbert, and they're certainly in their element delving into the twists and intricacies of the Hernandez's narrative worlds. There's a lot to highlight in this Love and Rockets, but there are two matters that are particularly noteworthy. First, most of Jaime's contributions revolve around triangle of Maggie, Ray, and Hopey. As the Two Guys point out, readers weren't sure what to expect after the 2011 volume of the series, when Jaime wrapped up the "Love Bunglers" storyline. That narrative had a feeling of finality, almost as if the saga of Ray and Maggie was coming to some sort of conclusion. (There was a tiny glimpse of the characters in 2012's Love and Rockets: New Stories, No. 5, but that was more postscript than anything.) But in this most recent volume of the series, we get to see how Maggie and Ray are evolving after the latter's traumatic accident. What's more, Hopey is brought back into Jaime's story world in a significant way, something we haven't seen in years. The other major observation that the guys make concerns Gilbert's pieces, mostly concerning Killer in Palomar and her relationship with her aunt Fritz. Much as in the previous volume of Love and Rockets: New Stories, Beto spins an elaborate tale surrounding Fritz, her b-movie career, and her mother Maria (which also links up with Gilbert's standalone graphic novels, Maria M.), although this time the complication involves Fritz doppelgängers, wannabe actresses who emulate her work. Derek and Andy feel that Gilbert's work has been rejuvenated with his return to Palomar, and this latest installment further convinces them of that. After a long discussion of Love and Rockets, the guys next turn to two new releases from Graphic Universe, an imprint of the Lerner Publishing Group. The first, Henrik Rehr's Terrorist: Gavrilo Princip, the Assassin Who Ignited World War I, is a fascinating account of the man, or the men, behind the assassination of Austro-Hungary's Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914. While most of the book centers on Princip, his associations, and his evolution from an young student into a virulent Serbian nationalist, Rehr spends a significant amount of page space fleshing out the ill-fated Archduke, showing readers more of the man behind the historical persona. Indeed, one of Rehr's major accomplishments in Terrorist is presenting his subject matters, Gavrilo Princip and Franz Ferdinand, as complex and truly rounded figures, leading readers to feel conflicted sympathies that challenge traditional textbook accounts of the assassination. Perhaps even more significant, Rehr shows us the many intricacies underlying the ethnic conflicts in the Balkans that plague Europe to this very day. Derek and Andy wrap up their review show with a brief discussion of the other recent Graphic Universe book, Simon Schwartz's The Other Side of the Wall. This is an autobiographical account of the author's family as they attempt to emigrate from East Berlin in the 1980s, just a few years before the fall of the Berlin Wall. In his account, Schwartz reveals his parents' struggles against the loss of jobs, the alienation of family and friends, and the unremitting harassment of the Stasi. Along with Rehr's more "fictional" Terrorist, Schwartz's memoir is yet another example of how comics can effectively engage with history. Wed, 18 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Love and Death On this week's episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three exciting new titles. The first is the latest volume of the Hernandez brothers' Love and Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics). It's alway a fun show when the guys get to discuss works by Jaime and/or Gilbert, and they're certainly in their element delving into the twists and intricacies of the Hernandez's narrative worlds. There's a lot to highlight in this Love and Rockets, but there are two matters that are particularly noteworthy. First, most of Jaime's contributions revolve around triangle of Maggie, Ray, and Hopey. As the Two Guys point out, readers weren't sure what to expect after the 2011 volume of the series, when Jaime wrapped up the "Love Bunglers" storyline. That narrative had a feeling of finality, almost as if the saga of Ray and Maggie was coming to some sort of conclusion. (There was a tiny glimpse of the characters in 2012's Love and Rockets: New Stories, No. 5, but that was more postscript than anything.) But in this most recent volume of the series, we get to see how Maggie and Ray are evolving after the latter's traumatic accident. What's more, Hopey is brought back into Jaime's story world in a significant way, something we haven't seen in years. The other major observation that the guys make concerns Gilbert's pieces, mostly concerning Killer in Palomar and her relationship with her aunt Fritz. Much as in the previous volume of Love and Rockets: New Stories, Beto spins an elaborate tale surrounding Fritz, her b-movie career, and her mother Maria (which also links up with Gilbert's standalone graphic novels, Maria M.), although this time the complication involves Fritz doppelgängers, wannabe actresses who emulate her work. Derek and Andy feel that Gilbert's work has been rejuvenated with his return to Palomar, and this latest installment further convinces them of that. After a long discussion of Love and Rockets, the guys next turn to two new releases from Graphic Universe, an imprint of the Lerner Publishing Group. The first, Henrik Rehr's Terrorist: Gavrilo Princip, the Assassin Who Ignited World War I, is a fascinating account of the man, or the men, behind the assassination of Austro-Hungary's Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914. While most of the book centers on Princip, his associations, and his evolution from an young student into a virulent Serbian nationalist, Rehr spends a significant amount of page space fleshing out the ill-fated Archduke, showing readers more of the man behind the historical persona. Indeed, one of Rehr's major accomplishments in Terrorist is presenting his subject matters, Gavrilo Princip and Franz Ferdinand, as complex and truly rounded figures, leading readers to feel conflicted sympathies that challenge traditional textbook accounts of the assassination. Perhaps even more significant, Rehr shows us the many intricacies underlying the ethnic conflicts in the Balkans that plague Europe to this very day. Derek and Andy wrap up their review show with a brief discussion of the other recent Graphic Universe book, Simon Schwartz's The Other Side of the Wall. This is an autobiographical account of the author's family as they attempt to emigrate from East Berlin in the 1980s, just a few years before the fall of the Berlin Wall. In his account, Schwartz reveals his parents' struggles against the loss of jobs, the alienation of family and friends, and the unremitting harassment of the Stasi. Along with Rehr's more "fictional" Terrorist, Schwartz's memoir is yet another example of how comics can effectively engage with history. On this week's episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three exciting new titles. The first is the latest volume of the Hernandez brothers' Love and Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics). It's alway a fun show when the guys get to discuss works by Jaime and/or Gilbert, and they're certainly in their element delving into the twists and intricacies of the Hernandez's narrative worlds. There's a lot to highlight in this Love and Rockets, but there are two matters that are particularly noteworthy. First, most of Jaime's contributions revolve around triangle of Maggie, Ray, and Hopey. As the Two Guys point out, readers weren't sure what to expect after the 2011 volume of the series, when Jaime wrapped up the "Love Bunglers" storyline. That narrative had a feeling of finality, almost as if the saga of Ray and Maggie was coming to some sort of conclusion. (There was a tiny glimpse of the characters in 2012's Love and Rockets: New Stories, No. 5, but that was more postscript than anything.) But in this most recent volume of the series, we get to see how Maggie and Ray are evolving after the latter's traumatic accident. What's more, Hopey is brought back into Jaime's story world in a significant way, something we haven't seen in years. The other major observation that the guys make concerns Gilbert's pieces, mostly concerning Killer in Palomar and her relationship with her aunt Fritz. Much as in the previous volume of Love and Rockets: New Stories, Beto spins an elaborate tale surrounding Fritz, her b-movie career, and her mother Maria (which also links up with Gilbert's standalone graphic novels, Maria M.), although this time the complication involves Fritz doppelgängers, wannabe actresses who emulate her work. Derek and Andy feel that Gilbert's work has been rejuvenated with his return to Palomar, and this latest installment further convinces them of that. After a long discussion of Love and Rockets, the guys next turn to two new releases from Graphic Universe, an imprint of the Lerner Publishing Group. The first, Henrik Rehr's Terrorist: Gavrilo Princip, the Assassin Who Ignited World War I, is a fascinating account of the man, or the men, behind the assassination of Austro-Hungary's Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914. While most of the book centers on Princip, his associations, and his evolution from an young student into a virulent Serbian nationalist, Rehr spends a significant amount of page space fleshing out the ill-fated Archduke, showing readers more of the man behind the historical persona. Indeed, one of Rehr's major accomplishments in Terrorist is presenting his subject matters, Gavrilo Princip and Franz Ferdinand, as complex and truly rounded figures, leading readers to feel conflicted sympathies that challenge traditional textbook accounts of the assassination. Perhaps even more significant, Rehr shows us the many intricacies underlying the ethnic conflicts in the Balkans that plague Europe to this very day. Derek and Andy wrap up their review show with a brief discussion of the other recent Graphic Universe book, Simon Schwartz's The Other Side of the Wall. This is an autobiographical account of the author's family as they attempt to emigrate from East Berlin in the 1980s, just a few years before the fall of the Berlin Wall. In his account, Schwartz reveals his parents' struggles against the loss of jobs, the alienation of family and friends, and the unremitting harassment of the Stasi. Along with Rehr's more "fictional" Terrorist, Schwartz's memoir is yet another example of how comics can effectively engage with history.

]]> 5067 no Interviews - Kyle Starks http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews40-Starks.mp3 On this interview show, Andy and Derek are happy to talk with Kyle Starks, the man behind the new book from Image, Sexcastle. The guys speak with Kyle about the book's origins as a successful Kickstarter campaign last year, how it captured the attention of the folks at Image Comics -- thanks to Matt Fraction -- and the vast support the book has been receiving from the creative community. Sexcastle is an homage to 1980s action movies complete with no-holds-barred fighting, monster trucks, egomaniacal villains, explosions, assassins, nunchucks, as well as a fair share of animals thrown in for good measure (such as a polar bear, a pooping peacock, and an evil cat). It is also the story of redemption, as the narrative's protagonist, Shane Sexcastle, attempts to leave behind his past life as a master assassin and find peace as humble florist. The Two Guys also talk with Kyle about his previous Kickstarter campaign, Legend of Ricky Thunder, as well as some of other earlier projects, including Punch Captain, Adventure Wizard, and Butts (all of which you can find through his website, KyleStarks.com). Along the way Kyle also shares his love of HeroesCon, the joys of Mert's soul food, and his distaste for commentary tracks on DVDs and Blu-ray. It's a fun interview, filled with thrilling talk that rivals the action found in Sexcastle. Mon, 16 Mar 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Bringing a You to a Me Fight On this interview show, Andy and Derek are happy to talk with Kyle Starks, the man behind the new book from Image, Sexcastle. The guys speak with Kyle about the book's origins as a successful Kickstarter campaign last year, how it captured the attention of the folks at Image Comics -- thanks to Matt Fraction -- and the vast support the book has been receiving from the creative community. Sexcastle is an homage to 1980s action movies complete with no-holds-barred fighting, monster trucks, egomaniacal villains, explosions, assassins, nunchucks, as well as a fair share of animals thrown in for good measure (such as a polar bear, a pooping peacock, and an evil cat). It is also the story of redemption, as the narrative's protagonist, Shane Sexcastle, attempts to leave behind his past life as a master assassin and find peace as humble florist. The Two Guys also talk with Kyle about his previous Kickstarter campaign, Legend of Ricky Thunder, as well as some of other earlier projects, including Punch Captain, Adventure Wizard, and Butts (all of which you can find through his website, KyleStarks.com). Along the way Kyle also shares his love of HeroesCon, the joys of Mert's soul food, and his distaste for commentary tracks on DVDs and Blu-ray. It's a fun interview, filled with thrilling talk that rivals the action found in Sexcastle. On this interview show, Andy and Derek are happy to talk with Kyle Starks, the man behind the new book from Image, Sexcastle. The guys speak with Kyle about the book's origins as a successful Kickstarter campaign last year, how it captured the attention of the folks at Image Comics -- thanks to Matt Fraction -- and the vast support the book has been receiving from the creative community. Sexcastle is an homage to 1980s action movies complete with no-holds-barred fighting, monster trucks, egomaniacal villains, explosions, assassins, nunchucks, as well as a fair share of animals thrown in for good measure (such as a polar bear, a pooping peacock, and an evil cat). It is also the story of redemption, as the narrative's protagonist, Shane Sexcastle, attempts to leave behind his past life as a master assassin and find peace as humble florist. The Two Guys also talk with Kyle about his previous Kickstarter campaign, Legend of Ricky Thunder, as well as some of other earlier projects, including Punch Captain, Adventure Wizard, and Butts (all of which you can find through his website, KyleStarks.com). Along the way Kyle also shares his love of HeroesCon, the joys of Mert's soul food, and his distaste for commentary tracks on DVDs and Blu-ray. It's a fun interview, filled with thrilling talk that rivals the action found in Sexcastle.

]]> 4990 no On Location - General Comics Talk at Collected Comics and Games http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation11.mp3 As he does every month, Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about what they are reading. For March, the topic is open and with no particular theme, so anything goes. And anything does go when Derek sits down with Shea Hennum, a long-time contributor to The Comics Alternative and, actually, the only customer who turned up to talk at the shop that evening. (For some reason, it was a very slow night at the store, for employees and customers alike.) The two guys cover a wide variety of topics, but they spend a little over half of their time discussing Scott McCloud's The Sculptor (First Second). It begins when Derek asks Shea about a recent review he wrote for Paste magazine, something that Andy alluded to in the last episode of the podcast. Shea was quite critical of McCloud's new graphic novel, and Derek wanted to  know why, and so for over thirty minutes the guys go back-and-forth over the contexts and merits of The Sculptor. In some ways, this could be seen as a follow-up to this week's regular episode where Andy and Derek reviewed McCloud's work. But Shea and Derek discuss other topics and creators as well, including Jacques Tardi, Joe Sacco, underground comix, First Second's recent release of Last Man: The Stranger, and, because Derek is talking with Shea, several manga titles, including Naoki Urasawa's Monster, Seiichi Hayashi's Red Colored Elegy, and Rumiko Takahashi's Ranma 1/2. So despite the heavy critique that Shea brings to The Sculptor, there are plenty of good vibrations to be felt from this month's on-location episode. Fri, 13 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Sculptor, Pt. Deux As he does every month, Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about what they are reading. For March, the topic is open and with no particular theme, so anything goes. And anything does go when Derek sits down with Shea Hennum, a long-time contributor to The Comics Alternative and, actually, the only customer who turned up to talk at the shop that evening. (For some reason, it was a very slow night at the store, for employees and customers alike.) The two guys cover a wide variety of topics, but they spend a little over half of their time discussing Scott McCloud's The Sculptor (First Second). It begins when Derek asks Shea about a recent review he wrote for Paste magazine, something that Andy alluded to in the last episode of the podcast. Shea was quite critical of McCloud's new graphic novel, and Derek wanted to  know why, and so for over thirty minutes the guys go back-and-forth over the contexts and merits of The Sculptor. In some ways, this could be seen as a follow-up to this week's regular episode where Andy and Derek reviewed McCloud's work. But Shea and Derek discuss other topics and creators as well, including Jacques Tardi, Joe Sacco, underground comix, First Second's recent release of Last Man: The Stranger, and, because Derek is talking with Shea, several manga titles, including Naoki Urasawa's Monster, Seiichi Hayashi's Red Colored Elegy, and Rumiko Takahashi's Ranma 1/2. So despite the heavy critique that Shea brings to The Sculptor, there are plenty of good vibrations to be felt from this month's on-location episode. As he does every month, Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, to talk with customers and employees about what they are reading. For March, the topic is open and with no particular theme, so anything goes. And anything does go when Derek sits down with Shea Hennum, a long-time contributor to The Comics Alternative and, actually, the only customer who turned up to talk at the shop that evening. (For some reason, it was a very slow night at the store, for employees and customers alike.) The two guys cover a wide variety of topics, but they spend a little over half of their time discussing Scott McCloud's The Sculptor (First Second). It begins when Derek asks Shea about a recent review he wrote for Paste magazine, something that Andy alluded to in the last episode of the podcast. Shea was quite critical of McCloud's new graphic novel, and Derek wanted to  know why, and so for over thirty minutes the guys go back-and-forth over the contexts and merits of The Sculptor. In some ways, this could be seen as a follow-up to this week's regular episode where Andy and Derek reviewed McCloud's work. But Shea and Derek discuss other topics and creators as well, including Jacques Tardi, Joe Sacco, underground comix, First Second's recent release of Last Man: The Stranger, and, because Derek is talking with Shea, several manga titles, including Naoki Urasawa's Monster, Seiichi Hayashi's Red Colored Elegy, and Rumiko Takahashi's Ranma 1/2. So despite the heavy critique that Shea brings to The Sculptor, there are plenty of good vibrations to be felt from this month's on-location episode.

]]> 4130 no Episode 126 - Reviews of The Sculptor, Divinity #1, and Descender #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-126.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another review episode, and on this one they explore three fascinating titles. They begin by discussing the much-anticipated recent release from Scott McCloud, The Sculptor (First Second). In fact, Derek and Andy begin their conversation with the very fact that this was a much-anticipated, and heavily reviewed, new book, and how all of that attention may be affecting the book's reception. They speculate on the ways in which the artist's prestige and reputation feeds into the expectations. Although McCloud has created memorable narratives -- e.g., the Zot! series and The New Adventures of Abraham Lincoln -- this is an author most famously known for Understanding Comics and the expository/instructional books that followed, Reinventing Comics and Making Comics. The guys question if the author can ever get beyond his reputation as primarily a theoretician of the medium, and if he can ever gain renewed recognition as a creator of innovative narrative forms. And both Derek and Andy feel mixed over the prognosis. Yet despite all of the extra-textual commentary, the Two Guys spend most of their conversation in a close reading of the text. Much of their talk centers on the book's protagonist, David Smith, and the author's possible attitude toward his creation. Does McCloud want us to see Smith as a heroic (possibly romantic?) figure, or are we expected to read the sculptor more critically and as a flawed artist? This is a question that remains unanswered, and perhaps it speaks to McCloud's talents that the Two Guys cannot put a finger on an exact character assessment. They also discuss The Sculptor as not only as a creative treatise on art and its place in our culture, but also, and perhaps more specifically, as a commentary on the comics industry today. Theirs is not a gushing, unequivocal endorsement of the new graphic novel -- there are already plenty of those out there -- but Andy and Derek do see this as a serious new work and give it the full Comics Alternative treatment...spending a little over an hour discussing the text! Next, the guys look at two new number one issues from some of their favorite creators. Matt Kindt and Trevor Hairsine's Divinity #1 (Valiant) is a beautifully rendered science fiction narrative that apparently rests just on the periphery of the Valiant University. This is the first of a four-part series, and Hairsine's cinematic style is the perfect platform for Kindt's complex storytelling. Both Derek and Andy love Matt Kindt as a writer/artist, but this time around they get their fix through his scripting only. They experience the same with Descender #1 (Image), written by Jeff Lemire and with art by Dustin Nguyen. Most times they discuss Lemire's work -- and the Two Guys have done this often -- they do so by looking at him as a sole creator, but his new series with Nguyen demonstrates without a doubt Lemire's developed writing chops. The first issue accomplishes what it sets out to do, establishing a premise and tone that will both frame and propel the first story arc. This is definitely not a title that encourages trade waiting. Indeed, with both Descender and Divinity, you'll want to get every issue as soon as they come out. Wed, 11 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Chipping Away The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another review episode, and on this one they explore three fascinating titles. They begin by discussing the much-anticipated recent release from Scott McCloud, The Sculptor (First Second). In fact, Derek and Andy begin their conversation with the very fact that this was a much-anticipated, and heavily reviewed, new book, and how all of that attention may be affecting the book's reception. They speculate on the ways in which the artist's prestige and reputation feeds into the expectations. Although McCloud has created memorable narratives -- e.g., the Zot! series and The New Adventures of Abraham Lincoln -- this is an author most famously known for Understanding Comics and the expository/instructional books that followed, Reinventing Comics and Making Comics. The guys question if the author can ever get beyond his reputation as primarily a theoretician of the medium, and if he can ever gain renewed recognition as a creator of innovative narrative forms. And both Derek and Andy feel mixed over the prognosis. Yet despite all of the extra-textual commentary, the Two Guys spend most of their conversation in a close reading of the text. Much of their talk centers on the book's protagonist, David Smith, and the author's possible attitude toward his creation. Does McCloud want us to see Smith as a heroic (possibly romantic?) figure, or are we expected to read the sculptor more critically and as a flawed artist? This is a question that remains unanswered, and perhaps it speaks to McCloud's talents that the Two Guys cannot put a finger on an exact character assessment. They also discuss The Sculptor as not only as a creative treatise on art and its place in our culture, but also, and perhaps more specifically, as a commentary on the comics industry today. Theirs is not a gushing, unequivocal endorsement of the new graphic novel -- there are already plenty of those out there -- but Andy and Derek do see this as a serious new work and give it the full Comics Alternative treatment...spending a little over an hour discussing the text! Next, the guys look at two new number one issues from some of their favorite creators. Matt Kindt and Trevor Hairsine's Divinity #1 (Valiant) is a beautifully rendered science fiction narrative that apparently rests just on the periphery of the Valiant University. This is the first of a four-part series, and Hairsine's cinematic style is the perfect platform for Kindt's complex storytelling. Both Derek and Andy love Matt Kindt as a writer/artist, but this time around they get their fix through his scripting only. They experience the same with Descender #1 (Image), written by Jeff Lemire and with art by Dustin Nguyen. Most times they discuss Lemire's work -- and the Two Guys have done this often -- they do so by looking at him as a sole creator, but his new series with Nguyen demonstrates without a doubt Lemire's developed writing chops. The first issue accomplishes what it sets out to do, establishing a premise and tone that will both frame and propel the first story arc. This is definitely not a title that encourages trade waiting. Indeed, with both Descender and Divinity, you'll want to get every issue as soon as they come out. The Two Guys with PhDs are back with another review episode, and on this one they explore three fascinating titles. They begin by discussing the much-anticipated recent release from Scott McCloud, The Sculptor (First Second). In fact, Derek and Andy begin their conversation with the very fact that this was a much-anticipated, and heavily reviewed, new book, and how all of that attention may be affecting the book's reception. They speculate on the ways in which the artist's prestige and reputation feeds into the expectations. Although McCloud has created memorable narratives -- e.g., the Zot! series and The New Adventures of Abraham Lincoln -- this is an author most famously known for Understanding Comics and the expository/instructional books that followed, Reinventing Comics and Making Comics. The guys question if the author can ever get beyond his reputation as primarily a theoretician of the medium, and if he can ever gain renewed recognition as a creator of innovative narrative forms. And both Derek and Andy feel mixed over the prognosis. Yet despite all of the extra-textual commentary, the Two Guys spend most of their conversation in a close reading of the text. Much of their talk centers on the book's protagonist, David Smith, and the author's possible attitude toward his creation. Does McCloud want us to see Smith as a heroic (possibly romantic?) figure, or are we expected to read the sculptor more critically and as a flawed artist? This is a question that remains unanswered, and perhaps it speaks to McCloud's talents that the Two Guys cannot put a finger on an exact character assessment. They also discuss The Sculptor as not only as a creative treatise on art and its place in our culture, but also, and perhaps more specifically, as a commentary on the comics industry today. Theirs is not a gushing, unequivocal endorsement of the new graphic novel -- there are already plenty of those out there -- but Andy and Derek do see this as a serious new work and give it the full Comics Alternative treatment...spending a little over an hour discussing the text! Next, the guys look at two new number one issues from some of their favorite creators. Matt Kindt and Trevor Hairsine's Divinity #1 (Valiant) is a beautifully rendered science fiction narrative that apparently rests just on the periphery of the Valiant University. This is the first of a four-part series, and Hairsine's cinematic style is the perfect platform for Kindt's complex storytelling. Both Derek and Andy love Matt Kindt as a writer/artist, but this time around they get their fix through his scripting only. They experience the same with Descender #1 (Image), written by Jeff Lemire and with art by Dustin Nguyen. Most times they discuss Lemire's work -- and the Two Guys have done this often -- they do so by looking at him as a sole creator, but his new series with Nguyen demonstrates without a doubt Lemire's developed writing chops. The first issue accomplishes what it sets out to do, establishing a premise and tone that will both frame and propel the first story arc. This is definitely not a title that encourages trade waiting. Indeed, with both Descender and Divinity, you'll want to get every issue as soon as they come out.

]]> 6493 no Special - A Will Eisner Week Panel Discussion, "The Relevance of Graphic Novels in Culture and Modern Education" http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special4.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs wrap up Will Eisner Week by featuring a recording of an event that took place on Saturday, March 7, at Collected Comics and Games's Keller location. The title of the panel was "The Relevance of Graphic Novels in Culture and Modern Education," and speaking on it were Derek, Matthew Kolman of the Forth Worth Public Library, and Christopher Kilgore of the University of Texas at Arlington. All three shared their experiences using comics for educational purposes and discussed the many facets of their presentational potential. Along the way, they covered such issues as strategies for visual learning, labeling and categorization -- e.g., how useful of a term is "graphic novel," anyway? -- comics and literacy, the presence of a de facto graphic novel canon, reader maturity and visual explicitness, the place of seriality and cartoon one-shots, and the various forms in which comics are published. The audience members asked a variety of challenging questions, and some even shared their own experiences as both readers and teachers of comics in the classroom. All in all, it was an engaging conversation, and one that truly participated in the spirit of Will Eisner Week. Mon, 09 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Will Eisner Week On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs wrap up Will Eisner Week by featuring a recording of an event that took place on Saturday, March 7, at Collected Comics and Games's Keller location. The title of the panel was "The Relevance of Graphic Novels in Culture and Modern Education," and speaking on it were Derek, Matthew Kolman of the Forth Worth Public Library, and Christopher Kilgore of the University of Texas at Arlington. All three shared their experiences using comics for educational purposes and discussed the many facets of their presentational potential. Along the way, they covered such issues as strategies for visual learning, labeling and categorization -- e.g., how useful of a term is "graphic novel," anyway? -- comics and literacy, the presence of a de facto graphic novel canon, reader maturity and visual explicitness, the place of seriality and cartoon one-shots, and the various forms in which comics are published. The audience members asked a variety of challenging questions, and some even shared their own experiences as both readers and teachers of comics in the classroom. All in all, it was an engaging conversation, and one that truly participated in the spirit of Will Eisner Week. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs wrap up Will Eisner Week by featuring a recording of an event that took place on Saturday, March 7, at Collected Comics and Games's Keller location. The title of the panel was "The Relevance of Graphic Novels in Culture and Modern Education," and speaking on it were Derek, Matthew Kolman of the Forth Worth Public Library, and Christopher Kilgore of the University of Texas at Arlington. All three shared their experiences using comics for educational purposes and discussed the many facets of their presentational potential. Along the way, they covered such issues as strategies for visual learning, labeling and categorization -- e.g., how useful of a term is "graphic novel," anyway? -- comics and literacy, the presence of a de facto graphic novel canon, reader maturity and visual explicitness, the place of seriality and cartoon one-shots, and the various forms in which comics are published. The audience members asked a variety of challenging questions, and some even shared their own experiences as both readers and teachers of comics in the classroom. All in all, it was an engaging conversation, and one that truly participated in the spirit of Will Eisner Week.

]]> 6045 no Webcomics - Reviews of Star Punch Girl, The Last Mechanical Monster, and Dreamless http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics4.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs continue their valiant attempt to bring you monthly shows devoted to quality, substantive discussion of webcomics. In this March episode, Derek and Andy W. focus on three distinctive titles, two currently ongoing and one completed webcomic. They begin by looking at S.D. Lockhart and Patibut Narm Preeyawongsakul's Star Punch Girl (and Derek deeply apologizes for butchering Preeyawongsakul's name). This is a different kind of webcomic that has a heavy manga and video gaming influence. This title began in April 2013, and so far the creators have completed the first two chapters. The first establishes the narrative with a creation myth, the titular character forming our world and then protecting it from nefarious forces. In the second chapter Star Punch Girl is invited to Earth and is honored by its worshipful inhabitants. Preeyawongsakul's colors are vibrant and the standout feature of this webcomic. The guys also discuss this series' apparent fan base, believing that it comprises mainly a younger demographic, and then contrast that with readers of the next webcomic they discuss, Brian Fies's The Last Mechanical Man. Readers aware of comics history will especially appreciate this webcomic in that Fies bases it off of an episode of the Fleischer Studio's 1941 episode of their Superman serial, "The Mechanical Monsters." What makes this series so captivating is the elaborate drama that Fies spins from a relatively simple superhero premise, making his story primarily character driven and psychologically thick. Andy and Derek speculate that, as he did with his Eisner Award-winning webcomic, Mom's Cancer, Fies is using the webcomic format to develop and experiment with his story before finalizing it in hardcopy form. This series began in November 2013 and may soon be wrapping up. And while not taking anything way from the other titles, of the three webcomics discussed this week, The Last Mechanical Monster is by far the one that the guys appreciated the most. Finally, Derek and Andy conclude the episode -- as they usually do -- by looking at an already completed webcomic, Bobby Crosby and Sarah Ellerton's Dreamless. This series originally ran from January 2009 to July 2010, and the creators later published a special edition hardcopy of the completed story. This is more of a novella than a novel-like narrative, with Crosby writing in a tightly condensed manner. The guys focus on Ellerton's watercolor-like illustrations, giving the story a soft and emotive tone that underscores the content. In fact, the best way to describe Dreamless is as a melodramatic romance, with an emphasis on the "melodrama." It may not be to everyone's tastes, but as the Two Guys with PhDs point out, if you appreciate a good love story, then this title may be for you. Fri, 06 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Adventures with Black Hole Boy The Two Guys with PhDs continue their valiant attempt to bring you monthly shows devoted to quality, substantive discussion of webcomics. In this March episode, Derek and Andy W. focus on three distinctive titles, two currently ongoing and one completed webcomic. They begin by looking at S.D. Lockhart and Patibut Narm Preeyawongsakul's Star Punch Girl (and Derek deeply apologizes for butchering Preeyawongsakul's name). This is a different kind of webcomic that has a heavy manga and video gaming influence. This title began in April 2013, and so far the creators have completed the first two chapters. The first establishes the narrative with a creation myth, the titular character forming our world and then protecting it from nefarious forces. In the second chapter Star Punch Girl is invited to Earth and is honored by its worshipful inhabitants. Preeyawongsakul's colors are vibrant and the standout feature of this webcomic. The guys also discuss this series' apparent fan base, believing that it comprises mainly a younger demographic, and then contrast that with readers of the next webcomic they discuss, Brian Fies's The Last Mechanical Man. Readers aware of comics history will especially appreciate this webcomic in that Fies bases it off of an episode of the Fleischer Studio's 1941 episode of their Superman serial, "The Mechanical Monsters." What makes this series so captivating is the elaborate drama that Fies spins from a relatively simple superhero premise, making his story primarily character driven and psychologically thick. Andy and Derek speculate that, as he did with his Eisner Award-winning webcomic, Mom's Cancer, Fies is using the webcomic format to develop and experiment with his story before finalizing it in hardcopy form. This series began in November 2013 and may soon be wrapping up. And while not taking anything way from the other titles, of the three webcomics discussed this week, The Last Mechanical Monster is by far the one that the guys appreciated the most. Finally, Derek and Andy conclude the episode -- as they usually do -- by looking at an already completed webcomic, Bobby Crosby and Sarah Ellerton's Dreamless. This series originally ran from January 2009 to July 2010, and the creators later published a special edition hardcopy of the completed story. This is more of a novella than a novel-like narrative, with Crosby writing in a tightly condensed manner. The guys focus on Ellerton's watercolor-like illustrations, giving the story a soft and emotive tone that underscores the content. In fact, the best way to describe Dreamless is as a melodramatic romance, with an emphasis on the "melodrama." It may not be to everyone's tastes, but as the Two Guys with PhDs point out, if you appreciate a good love story, then this title may be for you. The Two Guys with PhDs continue their valiant attempt to bring you monthly shows devoted to quality, substantive discussion of webcomics. In this March episode, Derek and Andy W. focus on three distinctive titles, two currently ongoing and one completed webcomic. They begin by looking at S.D. Lockhart and Patibut Narm Preeyawongsakul's Star Punch Girl (and Derek deeply apologizes for butchering Preeyawongsakul's name). This is a different kind of webcomic that has a heavy manga and video gaming influence. This title began in April 2013, and so far the creators have completed the first two chapters. The first establishes the narrative with a creation myth, the titular character forming our world and then protecting it from nefarious forces. In the second chapter Star Punch Girl is invited to Earth and is honored by its worshipful inhabitants. Preeyawongsakul's colors are vibrant and the standout feature of this webcomic. The guys also discuss this series' apparent fan base, believing that it comprises mainly a younger demographic, and then contrast that with readers of the next webcomic they discuss, Brian Fies's The Last Mechanical Man. Readers aware of comics history will especially appreciate this webcomic in that Fies bases it off of an episode of the Fleischer Studio's 1941 episode of their Superman serial, "The Mechanical Monsters." What makes this series so captivating is the elaborate drama that Fies spins from a relatively simple superhero premise, making his story primarily character driven and psychologically thick. Andy and Derek speculate that, as he did with his Eisner Award-winning webcomic, Mom's Cancer, Fies is using the webcomic format to develop and experiment with his story before finalizing it in hardcopy form. This series began in November 2013 and may soon be wrapping up. And while not taking anything way from the other titles, of the three webcomics discussed this week, The Last Mechanical Monster is by far the one that the guys appreciated the most. Finally, Derek and Andy conclude the episode -- as they usually do -- by looking at an already completed webcomic, Bobby Crosby and Sarah Ellerton's Dreamless. This series originally ran from January 2009 to July 2010, and the creators later published a special edition hardcopy of the completed story. This is more of a novella than a novel-like narrative, with Crosby writing in a tightly condensed manner. The guys focus on Ellerton's watercolor-like illustrations, giving the story a soft and emotive tone that underscores the content. In fact, the best way to describe Dreamless is as a melodramatic romance, with an emphasis on the "melodrama." It may not be to everyone's tastes, but as the Two Guys with PhDs point out, if you appreciate a good love story, then this title may be for you.

]]> 5310 no Episode 125 - The March Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-125.mp3 It’s the beginning of the month, and that means that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take a metaphorical stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And this month, their peregrinations are more than casual; this is more like a power walk. The March Previews contains a hefty series of solicitations that make for an extra-long episode, almost leaving the guys feeling like they’ve completed a marathon. Among the many upcoming titles that Derek and Andy highlight are Fight Club 2 #1, Harrow County #1, and High Crimes (from Dark Horse Comics); You Don’t Say, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, and Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency #1 (IDW Publications); the usual slew of #1 issues from Image Comics such as Injection, Mythic, Material, Valhalla Mad, and Minimum Wage: So Many Bad Decisions; Russian Olive to Red King (AdHouse Books); a variety of books from and distributed through Alternative Comics, such as Irene Vol. 4, It Will All Hurt #1, Island of Memory Vol. 1, The Secret Voice #2, and Smilin’ Ed Comics; the first issue in Alan Moore’s new Lovecraftian series, Providence (Avatar Press); the new Captain Canuck #1 (Chapter House Publishing); Don’t Get Eaten by Anything and The Disappearance of Charley Butters (Conundrum Press); Drawn and Quarterly: Twenty-five Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels and Optic Nerve #14 (Drawn and Quarterly); the usual impressive offerings from Fantagraphics, including Maria M. Book 2, Adventures of Tad Martin #Sick Sick Sick, and The Life and Legend of Wallace Wood; Exquisite Corpse (First Second); Annihilator, Vol. 1 (Legendary Comics); Louise Brooks, Detective (NBM); Aama Vol. 3: The Desert of Mirrors and The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero); Surface Tension #1 and The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane #1 (Titan Comics); and Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze in America: 1957-1972 (Tomorrows Publishing). In addition to focusing on all of these upcoming releases, Andy and Derek also discuss Dark Horse’s recent decision to make several of their ongoing series digital-only, IDW’s acquisition of Top Shelf Productions as a new imprint, Alternative Comic’s new distribution agreement with several small presses, the joys of Adrian Tomine, and the fact that this is “Women in Comics” month in the March Previews catalog. In all, lots o’ things are covered…the kind of substantive, quality programming you’ve come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs. Wed, 04 Mar 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shenanigans It’s the beginning of the month, and that means that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take a metaphorical stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And this month, their peregrinations are more than casual; this is more like a power walk. The March Previews contains a hefty series of solicitations that make for an extra-long episode, almost leaving the guys feeling like they’ve completed a marathon. Among the many upcoming titles that Derek and Andy highlight are Fight Club 2 #1, Harrow County #1, and High Crimes (from Dark Horse Comics); You Don’t Say, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, and Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency #1 (IDW Publications); the usual slew of #1 issues from Image Comics such as Injection, Mythic, Material, Valhalla Mad, and Minimum Wage: So Many Bad Decisions; Russian Olive to Red King (AdHouse Books); a variety of books from and distributed through Alternative Comics, such as Irene Vol. 4, It Will All Hurt #1, Island of Memory Vol. 1, The Secret Voice #2, and Smilin’ Ed Comics; the first issue in Alan Moore’s new Lovecraftian series, Providence (Avatar Press); the new Captain Canuck #1 (Chapter House Publishing); Don’t Get Eaten by Anything and The Disappearance of Charley Butters (Conundrum Press); Drawn and Quarterly: Twenty-five Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels and Optic Nerve #14 (Drawn and Quarterly); the usual impressive offerings from Fantagraphics, including Maria M. Book 2, Adventures of Tad Martin #Sick Sick Sick, and The Life and Legend of Wallace Wood; Exquisite Corpse (First Second); Annihilator, Vol. 1 (Legendary Comics); Louise Brooks, Detective (NBM); Aama Vol. 3: The Desert of Mirrors and The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero); Surface Tension #1 and The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane #1 (Titan Comics); and Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze in America: 1957-1972 (Tomorrows Publishing). In addition to focusing on all of these upcoming releases, Andy and Derek also discuss Dark Horse’s recent decision to make several of their ongoing series digital-only, IDW’s acquisition of Top Shelf Productions as a new imprint, Alternative Comic’s new distribution agreement with several small presses, the joys of Adrian Tomine, and the fact that this is “Women in Comics” month in the March Previews catalog. In all, lots o’ things are covered…the kind of substantive, quality programming you’ve come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs. It’s the beginning of the month, and that means that the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take a metaphorical stroll through the latest Previews catalog. And this month, their peregrinations are more than casual; this is more like a power walk. The March Previews contains a hefty series of solicitations that make for an extra-long episode, almost leaving the guys feeling like they’ve completed a marathon. Among the many upcoming titles that Derek and Andy highlight are Fight Club 2 #1, Harrow County #1, and High Crimes (from Dark Horse Comics); You Don’t Say, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, and Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency #1 (IDW Publications); the usual slew of #1 issues from Image Comics such as Injection, Mythic, Material, Valhalla Mad, and Minimum Wage: So Many Bad Decisions; Russian Olive to Red King (AdHouse Books); a variety of books from and distributed through Alternative Comics, such as Irene Vol. 4, It Will All Hurt #1, Island of Memory Vol. 1, The Secret Voice #2, and Smilin’ Ed Comics; the first issue in Alan Moore’s new Lovecraftian series, Providence (Avatar Press); the new Captain Canuck #1 (Chapter House Publishing); Don’t Get Eaten by Anything and The Disappearance of Charley Butters (Conundrum Press); Drawn and Quarterly: Twenty-five Years of Contemporary Cartooning, Comics, and Graphic Novels and Optic Nerve #14 (Drawn and Quarterly); the usual impressive offerings from Fantagraphics, including Maria M. Book 2, Adventures of Tad Martin #Sick Sick Sick, and The Life and Legend of Wallace Wood; Exquisite Corpse (First Second); Annihilator, Vol. 1 (Legendary Comics); Louise Brooks, Detective (NBM); Aama Vol. 3: The Desert of Mirrors and The King in Yellow (SelfMadeHero); Surface Tension #1 and The 6 Voyages of Lone Sloane #1 (Titan Comics); and Monster Mash: The Creepy, Kooky Monster Craze in America: 1957-1972 (Tomorrows Publishing). In addition to focusing on all of these upcoming releases, Andy and Derek also discuss Dark Horse’s recent decision to make several of their ongoing series digital-only, IDW’s acquisition of Top Shelf Productions as a new imprint, Alternative Comic’s new distribution agreement with several small presses, the joys of Adrian Tomine, and the fact that this is “Women in Comics” month in the March Previews catalog. In all, lots o’ things are covered…the kind of substantive, quality programming you’ve come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs.

]]> 7554 no Special - A Roundtable Discussion on Will Eisner Week with Denis Kitchen and Michael Schumacher http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special3.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek kick off Will Eisner Week by having as their guests on the show Denis Kitchen and Michael Schumacher. Denis is an underground comix legend as well the force behind Kitchen Sink Press, and he was a close friend, business associate, and former publisher of Eisner. Michael is an author whose biography, Will Eisner: A Dreamer's Life in Comics, was released by Bloomsbury in 2010. The Two Guys talk with them about the comics of Will Eisner, the artist's impact and innovations, and the person behind the legend. They discuss with Denis his recollections of his relationship with Eisner, explore the impact of the underground comix movement on the artist's career, and hear anecdotes about Eisner's aesthetic philosophy and business practices. Derek and Andy also talk with Michael about his experiences researching Eisner, his papers, and former associates, and they learn about his efforts in chronicling Eisner's life. The result is an engaging conversation that not only celebrates the artist, but also honors the man who was Will Eisner. Mon, 02 Mar 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Will Eisner in Perspective On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek kick off Will Eisner Week by having as their guests on the show Denis Kitchen and Michael Schumacher. Denis is an underground comix legend as well the force behind Kitchen Sink Press, and he was a close friend, business associate, and former publisher of Eisner. Michael is an author whose biography, Will Eisner: A Dreamer's Life in Comics, was released by Bloomsbury in 2010. The Two Guys talk with them about the comics of Will Eisner, the artist's impact and innovations, and the person behind the legend. They discuss with Denis his recollections of his relationship with Eisner, explore the impact of the underground comix movement on the artist's career, and hear anecdotes about Eisner's aesthetic philosophy and business practices. Derek and Andy also talk with Michael about his experiences researching Eisner, his papers, and former associates, and they learn about his efforts in chronicling Eisner's life. The result is an engaging conversation that not only celebrates the artist, but also honors the man who was Will Eisner. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek kick off Will Eisner Week by having as their guests on the show Denis Kitchen and Michael Schumacher. Denis is an underground comix legend as well the force behind Kitchen Sink Press, and he was a close friend, business associate, and former publisher of Eisner. Michael is an author whose biography, Will Eisner: A Dreamer's Life in Comics, was released by Bloomsbury in 2010. The Two Guys talk with them about the comics of Will Eisner, the artist's impact and innovations, and the person behind the legend. They discuss with Denis his recollections of his relationship with Eisner, explore the impact of the underground comix movement on the artist's career, and hear anecdotes about Eisner's aesthetic philosophy and business practices. Derek and Andy also talk with Michael about his experiences researching Eisner, his papers, and former associates, and they learn about his efforts in chronicling Eisner's life. The result is an engaging conversation that not only celebrates the artist, but also honors the man who was Will Eisner.

]]> 5970 no Episode 124 - Reviews of 10 Different Number One Issues http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-124.mp3 On this week’s podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs take on a gargantuan task: they review ten different #1 issues from a variety of publishers. First they look at several debuts from Image Comics, including Bryan Hill, Matt Hawkins, and Isaac Goodhart’s Postal; Jimmie Robinson’s The Empty; Brian Joines, Jay Faerber, and Ilias Kyriazis’s Secret Identities; and Ben Acker, Ben Blacker, and J. Bone’s Sparks Nevada: Marshall on Mars. After those they discuss three new titles from Dark Horse Comics, such as Richard Corben’s Rat God, Rafael Albuquerque and Mike Johnson’s Ei8ht, and Dean Motter’s Mister X: Razed. And then they wrap up with two #1 issues from BOOM! Studios/Archaia — Swifty Lang and Skuds McKinley’s Plunder, and Ed Brisson and Damian Couceiro’s Cluster — and finally Ryan Ferrier and Valentin Ramon’s D4ve from IDW Publishing. Almost all of these new titles are worth checking out, with enthusiastic recommendations going to Cluster, Secret Identities, and especially the clever and comedic D4ve (perhaps the best of the bunch). And while Derek and Andy W. try to focus on the positive, they aren’t overly enamored of Sparks Nevada, a miniseries based off of a Thrilling Adventure Hour performance. In fact, some of the comedy in this first issue seems to rely — and, at times, confusingly so — on sounds, a strategy that doesn’t translate as effectively in comics. But outside of this little bump, this episode presents a smooth and enjoyable trip down the road of recent comicsdom. There’s a lot to digest in the extra-long podcast, so just sit back, relax, listen up, and let the Two Guys do the driving. Wed, 25 Feb 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Krazy Komics Kavalcade On this week’s podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs take on a gargantuan task: they review ten different #1 issues from a variety of publishers. First they look at several debuts from Image Comics, including Bryan Hill, Matt Hawkins, and Isaac Goodhart’s Postal; Jimmie Robinson’s The Empty; Brian Joines, Jay Faerber, and Ilias Kyriazis’s Secret Identities; and Ben Acker, Ben Blacker, and J. Bone’s Sparks Nevada: Marshall on Mars. After those they discuss three new titles from Dark Horse Comics, such as Richard Corben’s Rat God, Rafael Albuquerque and Mike Johnson’s Ei8ht, and Dean Motter’s Mister X: Razed. And then they wrap up with two #1 issues from BOOM! Studios/Archaia — Swifty Lang and Skuds McKinley’s Plunder, and Ed Brisson and Damian Couceiro’s Cluster — and finally Ryan Ferrier and Valentin Ramon’s D4ve from IDW Publishing. Almost all of these new titles are worth checking out, with enthusiastic recommendations going to Cluster, Secret Identities, and especially the clever and comedic D4ve (perhaps the best of the bunch). And while Derek and Andy W. try to focus on the positive, they aren’t overly enamored of Sparks Nevada, a miniseries based off of a Thrilling Adventure Hour performance. In fact, some of the comedy in this first issue seems to rely — and, at times, confusingly so — on sounds, a strategy that doesn’t translate as effectively in comics. But outside of this little bump, this episode presents a smooth and enjoyable trip down the road of recent comicsdom. There’s a lot to digest in the extra-long podcast, so just sit back, relax, listen up, and let the Two Guys do the driving. On this week’s podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs take on a gargantuan task: they review ten different #1 issues from a variety of publishers. First they look at several debuts from Image Comics, including Bryan Hill, Matt Hawkins, and Isaac Goodhart’s Postal; Jimmie Robinson’s The Empty; Brian Joines, Jay Faerber, and Ilias Kyriazis’s Secret Identities; and Ben Acker, Ben Blacker, and J. Bone’s Sparks Nevada: Marshall on Mars. After those they discuss three new titles from Dark Horse Comics, such as Richard Corben’s Rat God, Rafael Albuquerque and Mike Johnson’s Ei8ht, and Dean Motter’s Mister X: Razed. And then they wrap up with two #1 issues from BOOM! Studios/Archaia — Swifty Lang and Skuds McKinley’s Plunder, and Ed Brisson and Damian Couceiro’s Cluster — and finally Ryan Ferrier and Valentin Ramon’s D4ve from IDW Publishing. Almost all of these new titles are worth checking out, with enthusiastic recommendations going to Cluster, Secret Identities, and especially the clever and comedic D4ve (perhaps the best of the bunch). And while Derek and Andy W. try to focus on the positive, they aren’t overly enamored of Sparks Nevada, a miniseries based off of a Thrilling Adventure Hour performance. In fact, some of the comedy in this first issue seems to rely — and, at times, confusingly so — on sounds, a strategy that doesn’t translate as effectively in comics. But outside of this little bump, this episode presents a smooth and enjoyable trip down the road of recent comicsdom. There’s a lot to digest in the extra-long podcast, so just sit back, relax, listen up, and let the Two Guys do the driving.

]]> 6922 no On Location - Discussing Ethnoracial Issues in Comics at Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation10.mp3 Derek is back at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month he and the customers are discussing ethnoracial issues as they relate to comics. Since this is Black History Month, the guys thought that they'd take the opportunity to look at a few African American comics (however you choose to define that term) and how race  and diversity has become part of the comics' historical tapestry. They mention a variety of specific titles -- Craig came prepared with his copies of The Harlem Hellfighters, March: Book One, and the collection Strange Fruit -- several key creators, such as Kyle Baker and Ho Che Anderson, and the attempts (at times pathetic) of mainstream publishers to diversify their titles' rosters. Derek and the guys also spend a good deal of time talking about broader ethnic issues in comics, including stereotyping, the responsibilities of representation, and author subject position. The result is an all-too-brief, tip-of-the-iceberg effort to address one of the medium's most complicated (and complicating) features, but it's a conversation well worth having. Fri, 20 Feb 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Color of Comics Derek is back at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month he and the customers are discussing ethnoracial issues as they relate to comics. Since this is Black History Month, the guys thought that they'd take the opportunity to look at a few African American comics (however you choose to define that term) and how race  and diversity has become part of the comics' historical tapestry. They mention a variety of specific titles -- Craig came prepared with his copies of The Harlem Hellfighters, March: Book One, and the collection Strange Fruit -- several key creators, such as Kyle Baker and Ho Che Anderson, and the attempts (at times pathetic) of mainstream publishers to diversify their titles' rosters. Derek and the guys also spend a good deal of time talking about broader ethnic issues in comics, including stereotyping, the responsibilities of representation, and author subject position. The result is an all-too-brief, tip-of-the-iceberg effort to address one of the medium's most complicated (and complicating) features, but it's a conversation well worth having. Derek is back at Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, and this month he and the customers are discussing ethnoracial issues as they relate to comics. Since this is Black History Month, the guys thought that they'd take the opportunity to look at a few African American comics (however you choose to define that term) and how race  and diversity has become part of the comics' historical tapestry. They mention a variety of specific titles -- Craig came prepared with his copies of The Harlem Hellfighters, March: Book One, and the collection Strange Fruit -- several key creators, such as Kyle Baker and Ho Che Anderson, and the attempts (at times pathetic) of mainstream publishers to diversify their titles' rosters. Derek and the guys also spend a good deal of time talking about broader ethnic issues in comics, including stereotyping, the responsibilities of representation, and author subject position. The result is an all-too-brief, tip-of-the-iceberg effort to address one of the medium's most complicated (and complicating) features, but it's a conversation well worth having.

]]> 4685 no Episode 123 - Reviews of March: Book Two, Copra: Round One, and Nameless #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-123.mp3 This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss three new titles. They begin by looking at the second book in John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell's March trilogy. Although the first volume from fall 2013 was a powerful debut, March: Book Two (Top Shelf Productions) is a decidedly more gripping work. There is more action and drama in this book -- and not only conflict between the protesters and the Southern white community, but perhaps more pointedly, conflict within the nonviolent movement's ranks -- than there was in the initial one. What's more, this is a much more emotionally charged work, in that readers are taken to the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement and Lewis's encounters with senseless beatings, attack dogs, firehoses, and bombings. The guys note that for younger readers, or those unfamiliar with mid-century American history, this book may be a bit of a shock -- or a wake-up call -- in that it paints a very different, starker picture of race relations in this country than experienced today...even given the realities of Ferguson, Missouri, and the shooting of Trayvon Martin. At the same time, March is a complement to these contemporary tragedies and a much-needed reminder that racial equality in this country is a yet unfinished project. Next, Andy and Derek turn to Michel Fiffe's Copra: Round One (Bergen Street Press). They begin by discussing the subtle popularity of the self-published Copra series, a title that has gained attention primarily though word of mouth. Andy had been telling Derek about this series for several months, and now the guys finally get to talk about its impact. Andy is particularly interested in Fiffe's take on John Ostrander's Suicide Squad. And while Derek voices his uncertainly of the collection's initial pacing, he acknowledges the artist's unique style that requires more reader engagement with completing the narrative. Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs look at the new title from Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham, Nameless #1 (Image Comics). As they point out, any new Grant Morrison title is a cause for notice -- and most times, for celebration. There are times when his books don't resonate as well as the guys would like, but there are others when his unique brand of storytelling recalls the groundbreaking Doom Patrol and The Invisibles. This first issue of Nameless appears to hold a lot of promise, but the guys are keen to see how Morrison's narrative plays out. While they think it will resonate more than his last series with Image, Happy!, Derek and Andy wonder how it might compare to what Morrison has currently been doing in the DC University with Multiversity or his creator-owned miniseries over at Legendary, Annihilator. Regardless, both guys on on for the ride, and as with any Morrison tale, who knows where that ride may lead? Wed, 18 Feb 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Same As It Ever Was This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss three new titles. They begin by looking at the second book in John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell's March trilogy. Although the first volume from fall 2013 was a powerful debut, March: Book Two (Top Shelf Productions) is a decidedly more gripping work. There is more action and drama in this book -- and not only conflict between the protesters and the Southern white community, but perhaps more pointedly, conflict within the nonviolent movement's ranks -- than there was in the initial one. What's more, this is a much more emotionally charged work, in that readers are taken to the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement and Lewis's encounters with senseless beatings, attack dogs, firehoses, and bombings. The guys note that for younger readers, or those unfamiliar with mid-century American history, this book may be a bit of a shock -- or a wake-up call -- in that it paints a very different, starker picture of race relations in this country than experienced today...even given the realities of Ferguson, Missouri, and the shooting of Trayvon Martin. At the same time, March is a complement to these contemporary tragedies and a much-needed reminder that racial equality in this country is a yet unfinished project. Next, Andy and Derek turn to Michel Fiffe's Copra: Round One (Bergen Street Press). They begin by discussing the subtle popularity of the self-published Copra series, a title that has gained attention primarily though word of mouth. Andy had been telling Derek about this series for several months, and now the guys finally get to talk about its impact. Andy is particularly interested in Fiffe's take on John Ostrander's Suicide Squad. And while Derek voices his uncertainly of the collection's initial pacing, he acknowledges the artist's unique style that requires more reader engagement with completing the narrative. Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs look at the new title from Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham, Nameless #1 (Image Comics). As they point out, any new Grant Morrison title is a cause for notice -- and most times, for celebration. There are times when his books don't resonate as well as the guys would like, but there are others when his unique brand of storytelling recalls the groundbreaking Doom Patrol and The Invisibles. This first issue of Nameless appears to hold a lot of promise, but the guys are keen to see how Morrison's narrative plays out. While they think it will resonate more than his last series with Image, Happy!, Derek and Andy wonder how it might compare to what Morrison has currently been doing in the DC University with Multiversity or his creator-owned miniseries over at Legendary, Annihilator. Regardless, both guys on on for the ride, and as with any Morrison tale, who knows where that ride may lead? This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss three new titles. They begin by looking at the second book in John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell's March trilogy. Although the first volume from fall 2013 was a powerful debut, March: Book Two (Top Shelf Productions) is a decidedly more gripping work. There is more action and drama in this book -- and not only conflict between the protesters and the Southern white community, but perhaps more pointedly, conflict within the nonviolent movement's ranks -- than there was in the initial one. What's more, this is a much more emotionally charged work, in that readers are taken to the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement and Lewis's encounters with senseless beatings, attack dogs, firehoses, and bombings. The guys note that for younger readers, or those unfamiliar with mid-century American history, this book may be a bit of a shock -- or a wake-up call -- in that it paints a very different, starker picture of race relations in this country than experienced today...even given the realities of Ferguson, Missouri, and the shooting of Trayvon Martin. At the same time, March is a complement to these contemporary tragedies and a much-needed reminder that racial equality in this country is a yet unfinished project. Next, Andy and Derek turn to Michel Fiffe's Copra: Round One (Bergen Street Press). They begin by discussing the subtle popularity of the self-published Copra series, a title that has gained attention primarily though word of mouth. Andy had been telling Derek about this series for several months, and now the guys finally get to talk about its impact. Andy is particularly interested in Fiffe's take on John Ostrander's Suicide Squad. And while Derek voices his uncertainly of the collection's initial pacing, he acknowledges the artist's unique style that requires more reader engagement with completing the narrative. Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs look at the new title from Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham, Nameless #1 (Image Comics). As they point out, any new Grant Morrison title is a cause for notice -- and most times, for celebration. There are times when his books don't resonate as well as the guys would like, but there are others when his unique brand of storytelling recalls the groundbreaking Doom Patrol and The Invisibles. This first issue of Nameless appears to hold a lot of promise, but the guys are keen to see how Morrison's narrative plays out. While they think it will resonate more than his last series with Image, Happy!, Derek and Andy wonder how it might compare to what Morrison has currently been doing in the DC University with Multiversity or his creator-owned miniseries over at Legendary, Annihilator. Regardless, both guys on on for the ride, and as with any Morrison tale, who knows where that ride may lead?

]]> 5281 no Interviews - Arlen Schumer http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews39-Schumer.mp3 On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Arlen Schumer. His book, The Silver Age of Comic Book Art, has recently been released in a beautiful, new revised edition from Archway Publishing. It originally came out in 2003 as a softcover, with a hardbound companion that included an extra section, but in this revised edition Schumer includes all the material from the longer hardbound release, but with brighter images and cleaner type. The result is a unique visual experience, a text on comics art history in the form of a coffee table book. As the guys point out in their discussion, this is the kind of book that every comics aficionado will want to get, and the perfect gift for anyone unfamiliar with the medium but interested in the many forms of American art. The Two Guys kick off the conversation by asking Arlen how he defines the Silver Age, and he argues that while everyone can agree that it began in 1956 with the publication of Showcase #4, the era ended in 1970, a watershed year that inaugurated the way we read comics today. Then they get into the particulars of the book, Arlen's chapter-by-chapter visual study of legends Carmine Infantino, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Gil Kane, Joe Kubert, Gene Colan, Jim Steranko, and Neal Adams. They spend quite a bit of time discussing the work of Infantino, Colan, and Adams (one of Arlen's favorites), but the artist they spend the most time exploring is Gil Kane. In fact, on the topic of Kane's art -- specifically, the way he rendered punches -- Andy is able to flex his superhero acumen in ways he normally doesn't on the podcast. The guys also talk with Arlen about the creators he didn't have the room to explore in the book, many of whom receive some attention in the final "More Masters" chapter of the book: Murphy Anderson, Wally Wood, John Buscema, Nick Cardy, and Curt Swan. In many ways, this is a departure for The Comics Alternative, a podcast devoted to non-mainstream, non-superhero comics, but given the significance of this book as both a work of art and a necessary critical/historical text, the guys just had to have Schumer on their show. Fri, 13 Feb 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Or, Gil Kane Punches Revisited On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Arlen Schumer. His book, The Silver Age of Comic Book Art, has recently been released in a beautiful, new revised edition from Archway Publishing. It originally came out in 2003 as a softcover, with a hardbound companion that included an extra section, but in this revised edition Schumer includes all the material from the longer hardbound release, but with brighter images and cleaner type. The result is a unique visual experience, a text on comics art history in the form of a coffee table book. As the guys point out in their discussion, this is the kind of book that every comics aficionado will want to get, and the perfect gift for anyone unfamiliar with the medium but interested in the many forms of American art. The Two Guys kick off the conversation by asking Arlen how he defines the Silver Age, and he argues that while everyone can agree that it began in 1956 with the publication of Showcase #4, the era ended in 1970, a watershed year that inaugurated the way we read comics today. Then they get into the particulars of the book, Arlen's chapter-by-chapter visual study of legends Carmine Infantino, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Gil Kane, Joe Kubert, Gene Colan, Jim Steranko, and Neal Adams. They spend quite a bit of time discussing the work of Infantino, Colan, and Adams (one of Arlen's favorites), but the artist they spend the most time exploring is Gil Kane. In fact, on the topic of Kane's art -- specifically, the way he rendered punches -- Andy is able to flex his superhero acumen in ways he normally doesn't on the podcast. The guys also talk with Arlen about the creators he didn't have the room to explore in the book, many of whom receive some attention in the final "More Masters" chapter of the book: Murphy Anderson, Wally Wood, John Buscema, Nick Cardy, and Curt Swan. In many ways, this is a departure for The Comics Alternative, a podcast devoted to non-mainstream, non-superhero comics, but given the significance of this book as both a work of art and a necessary critical/historical text, the guys just had to have Schumer on their show. On this interview episode, Andy and Derek are pleased to have as their guest Arlen Schumer. His book, The Silver Age of Comic Book Art, has recently been released in a beautiful, new revised edition from Archway Publishing. It originally came out in 2003 as a softcover, with a hardbound companion that included an extra section, but in this revised edition Schumer includes all the material from the longer hardbound release, but with brighter images and cleaner type. The result is a unique visual experience, a text on comics art history in the form of a coffee table book. As the guys point out in their discussion, this is the kind of book that every comics aficionado will want to get, and the perfect gift for anyone unfamiliar with the medium but interested in the many forms of American art. The Two Guys kick off the conversation by asking Arlen how he defines the Silver Age, and he argues that while everyone can agree that it began in 1956 with the publication of Showcase #4, the era ended in 1970, a watershed year that inaugurated the way we read comics today. Then they get into the particulars of the book, Arlen's chapter-by-chapter visual study of legends Carmine Infantino, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Gil Kane, Joe Kubert, Gene Colan, Jim Steranko, and Neal Adams. They spend quite a bit of time discussing the work of Infantino, Colan, and Adams (one of Arlen's favorites), but the artist they spend the most time exploring is Gil Kane. In fact, on the topic of Kane's art -- specifically, the way he rendered punches -- Andy is able to flex his superhero acumen in ways he normally doesn't on the podcast. The guys also talk with Arlen about the creators he didn't have the room to explore in the book, many of whom receive some attention in the final "More Masters" chapter of the book: Murphy Anderson, Wally Wood, John Buscema, Nick Cardy, and Curt Swan. In many ways, this is a departure for The Comics Alternative, a podcast devoted to non-mainstream, non-superhero comics, but given the significance of this book as both a work of art and a necessary critical/historical text, the guys just had to have Schumer on their show.

]]> 4420 no Episode 122 - Reviews of Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn, Effigy #1, and The Unwritten: Apocalypse #12 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-122.mp3 This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss beginnings, endings, and renewals. They start with the latter, looking at the first in a projected twelve-volume Hugo Pratt collection from IDW/EuroComics, Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn. This is a brand new English edition — translated by Dean Mullaney and Simone Castaldi — and presented in the original black-and-white. (The previous translated version of a Corto Maltese edition, 2012’s The Ballad of the Salt Sea, from Universe Publishing, was colorized.) It’s also published in a European album-sized format, roughly 11 1/2 x 9 1/2″, so that the reader can experience the clean, full radiance of Pratt’s art. Although they’ve read a little of Pratt’s work in the past, this is the guys’ first real introduction to Corto Maltese, at least in terms of full storylines. They spend a lot of time focusing on the narratives in this new volume, noting that the first three chapters form a cohesive and ongoing story, with the final three chapters — especially the final “The Seagull’s Fault” — participating in the continuity, but nonetheless functioning as standalone pieces. Another topic the Two Guys discuss is Pratt’s style of drawing Corto Maltese’s legs…particularly the ways that legs are presented in fight scenes. Check it out to see what they’re referring to. Next, Derek and Derek look at two recent Vertigo titles, a first issue and a final issue. With Tim Seeley and Marley Zarcone’s Effigy, they focus on the three-part structure of the story and how the creators deftly present the premise, include reasonable exposition, and then strategically set up the central mystery that will drive the narrative forward. The guys then spend the rest of the episode discussing The Unwritten: Apocalypse #12, the final installment in Mike Carey and Peter Gross’s epic. Both Andy and Derek have been with The Unwritten from the very beginning, and for the most part they have kept up with the series religiously. (Well, Derek has let things slide a bit these past few months.) They discuss the impact of this final issue, what it means to the overall series, and how much it helps readers to wrap their brains around the high concept of the title. This leads the guys into a broader discussion of DC’s Vertigo imprint, it’s possible future, and the challenge of finding another long, ongoing series from the publisher similar to The Unwritten, Scalped, DMZ, and Fables (which will also end later this year). But don’t get all teary-eyed over the loss of Tom Taylor and the gang. Celebrate the conclusion of this engaging series, and bask in the yummy goodness of the fun comics talk! Also: this show marks the debut of The Comics Alternative‘s brand new theme song, written and performed specifically for the podcast by DJ Copely. Be sure to check him out on Twitter @Webpuppy45 Wed, 11 Feb 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Beginnings and Endings This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss beginnings, endings, and renewals. They start with the latter, looking at the first in a projected twelve-volume Hugo Pratt collection from IDW/EuroComics, Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn. This is a brand new English edition — translated by Dean Mullaney and Simone Castaldi — and presented in the original black-and-white. (The previous translated version of a Corto Maltese edition, 2012’s The Ballad of the Salt Sea, from Universe Publishing, was colorized.) It’s also published in a European album-sized format, roughly 11 1/2 x 9 1/2″, so that the reader can experience the clean, full radiance of Pratt’s art. Although they’ve read a little of Pratt’s work in the past, this is the guys’ first real introduction to Corto Maltese, at least in terms of full storylines. They spend a lot of time focusing on the narratives in this new volume, noting that the first three chapters form a cohesive and ongoing story, with the final three chapters — especially the final “The Seagull’s Fault” — participating in the continuity, but nonetheless functioning as standalone pieces. Another topic the Two Guys discuss is Pratt’s style of drawing Corto Maltese’s legs…particularly the ways that legs are presented in fight scenes. Check it out to see what they’re referring to. Next, Derek and Derek look at two recent Vertigo titles, a first issue and a final issue. With Tim Seeley and Marley Zarcone’s Effigy, they focus on the three-part structure of the story and how the creators deftly present the premise, include reasonable exposition, and then strategically set up the central mystery that will drive the narrative forward. The guys then spend the rest of the episode discussing The Unwritten: Apocalypse #12, the final installment in Mike Carey and Peter Gross’s epic. Both Andy and Derek have been with The Unwritten from the very beginning, and for the most part they have kept up with the series religiously. (Well, Derek has let things slide a bit these past few months.) They discuss the impact of this final issue, what it means to the overall series, and how much it helps readers to wrap their brains around the high concept of the title. This leads the guys into a broader discussion of DC’s Vertigo imprint, it’s possible future, and the challenge of finding another long, ongoing series from the publisher similar to The Unwritten, Scalped, DMZ, and Fables (which will also end later this year). But don’t get all teary-eyed over the loss of Tom Taylor and the gang. Celebrate the conclusion of this engaging series, and bask in the yummy goodness of the fun comics talk! Also: this show marks the debut of The Comics Alternative‘s brand new theme song, written and performed specifically for the podcast by DJ Copely. Be sure to check him out on Twitter @Webpuppy45 This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss beginnings, endings, and renewals. They start with the latter, looking at the first in a projected twelve-volume Hugo Pratt collection from IDW/EuroComics, Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn. This is a brand new English edition — translated by Dean Mullaney and Simone Castaldi — and presented in the original black-and-white. (The previous translated version of a Corto Maltese edition, 2012’s The Ballad of the Salt Sea, from Universe Publishing, was colorized.) It’s also published in a European album-sized format, roughly 11 1/2 x 9 1/2″, so that the reader can experience the clean, full radiance of Pratt’s art. Although they’ve read a little of Pratt’s work in the past, this is the guys’ first real introduction to Corto Maltese, at least in terms of full storylines. They spend a lot of time focusing on the narratives in this new volume, noting that the first three chapters form a cohesive and ongoing story, with the final three chapters — especially the final “The Seagull’s Fault” — participating in the continuity, but nonetheless functioning as standalone pieces. Another topic the Two Guys discuss is Pratt’s style of drawing Corto Maltese’s legs…particularly the ways that legs are presented in fight scenes. Check it out to see what they’re referring to. Next, Derek and Derek look at two recent Vertigo titles, a first issue and a final issue. With Tim Seeley and Marley Zarcone’s Effigy, they focus on the three-part structure of the story and how the creators deftly present the premise, include reasonable exposition, and then strategically set up the central mystery that will drive the narrative forward. The guys then spend the rest of the episode discussing The Unwritten: Apocalypse #12, the final installment in Mike Carey and Peter Gross’s epic. Both Andy and Derek have been with The Unwritten from the very beginning, and for the most part they have kept up with the series religiously. (Well, Derek has let things slide a bit these past few months.) They discuss the impact of this final issue, what it means to the overall series, and how much it helps readers to wrap their brains around the high concept of the title. This leads the guys into a broader discussion of DC’s Vertigo imprint, it’s possible future, and the challenge of finding another long, ongoing series from the publisher similar to The Unwritten, Scalped, DMZ, and Fables (which will also end later this year). But don’t get all teary-eyed over the loss of Tom Taylor and the gang. Celebrate the conclusion of this engaging series, and bask in the yummy goodness of the fun comics talk! Also: this show marks the debut of The Comics Alternative‘s brand new theme song, written and performed specifically for the podcast by DJ Copely. Be sure to check him out on Twitter @Webpuppy45

]]> 5662 no On Location - Talking with Creators at the Dallas Comic Con Fan Days Event http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation9.mp3 In this on-location episode, Derek is at the Dallas Comic Con for this year’s “Fan Days” event, which was held at the Irving Convention Center. There he was able to talk with several creators, including Joe Eisma (of Morning Glories fame), Michael Lark (Lazarus, The Scene of the Crime), Elizabeth Breitweiser (Fatale, The Fade Out, Outcast) and Mitch Breitweiser (Captain America, Immortal Iron Fist), Nick Pitarra (Manhattan Projects), and Cal Slayton (Shades of Blue, Digital Webbing Presents). This was a smaller event than other Dallas Comic Cons, and there was a smaller Artists’ Alley than they’ve had in the past. But what the con lacked in artist numbers, the creators definitely made up for in fun and substantive conversation. Mon, 09 Feb 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal In Artists’ Alley at the Dallas Comic Con In this on-location episode, Derek is at the Dallas Comic Con for this year’s “Fan Days” event, which was held at the Irving Convention Center. There he was able to talk with several creators, including Joe Eisma (of Morning Glories fame), Michael Lark (Lazarus, The Scene of the Crime), Elizabeth Breitweiser (Fatale, The Fade Out, Outcast) and Mitch Breitweiser (Captain America, Immortal Iron Fist), Nick Pitarra (Manhattan Projects), and Cal Slayton (Shades of Blue, Digital Webbing Presents). This was a smaller event than other Dallas Comic Cons, and there was a smaller Artists’ Alley than they’ve had in the past. But what the con lacked in artist numbers, the creators definitely made up for in fun and substantive conversation. In this on-location episode, Derek is at the Dallas Comic Con for this year’s “Fan Days” event, which was held at the Irving Convention Center. There he was able to talk with several creators, including Joe Eisma (of Morning Glories fame), Michael Lark (Lazarus, The Scene of the Crime), Elizabeth Breitweiser (Fatale, The Fade Out, Outcast) and Mitch Breitweiser (Captain America, Immortal Iron Fist), Nick Pitarra (Manhattan Projects), and Cal Slayton (Shades of Blue, Digital Webbing Presents). This was a smaller event than other Dallas Comic Cons, and there was a smaller Artists’ Alley than they’ve had in the past. But what the con lacked in artist numbers, the creators definitely made up for in fun and substantive conversation.

]]> 2881 no Interviews - Jim Rugg http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews38-Rugg.mp3 Andy and Derek are happy to have on the podcast the multifaceted Jim Rugg, whose new printing of Street Angel (created with Brian Maruca) was just released by AdHouse. The guys talk with Jim about the significance of the new printing -- a colorful discussion -- as well as the book's protagonist Jesse Sanchez, an "orphan of the streets and skateboarding daughter of justice" who "fights a never ending battle against the forces of evil, nepotism, ninjas, and hunger." The artist discusses the title's early days at Slave Labor Graphics as a serial and its final issue as the launching pad for another Rugg/Maruca creation, Alan "Afrodisiac" Driesler, the mysterious, irresistible, smooth dark chocolate brother of the streets who fights to protect his turf and his ladies. And of course, it's inevitable that the guys get into a discussion of 1970s culture and comics, including kung fu, TV cop shows, blaxploitation films, and Big Jim action figures. Derek and Andy also talk with Jim about his work on other titles, including Supermag (AdHouse), The Plain Janes (DC/Minx), and his art for titles as diverse as The Guild, Adventure Time, and Henry and Glenn Forever and Ever. It's a fun conversation, one with as much savvy and street smarts as the characters who populate Jim's stories. Fri, 06 Feb 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Big Jim Andy and Derek are happy to have on the podcast the multifaceted Jim Rugg, whose new printing of Street Angel (created with Brian Maruca) was just released by AdHouse. The guys talk with Jim about the significance of the new printing -- a colorful discussion -- as well as the book's protagonist Jesse Sanchez, an "orphan of the streets and skateboarding daughter of justice" who "fights a never ending battle against the forces of evil, nepotism, ninjas, and hunger." The artist discusses the title's early days at Slave Labor Graphics as a serial and its final issue as the launching pad for another Rugg/Maruca creation, Alan "Afrodisiac" Driesler, the mysterious, irresistible, smooth dark chocolate brother of the streets who fights to protect his turf and his ladies. And of course, it's inevitable that the guys get into a discussion of 1970s culture and comics, including kung fu, TV cop shows, blaxploitation films, and Big Jim action figures. Derek and Andy also talk with Jim about his work on other titles, including Supermag (AdHouse), The Plain Janes (DC/Minx), and his art for titles as diverse as The Guild, Adventure Time, and Henry and Glenn Forever and Ever. It's a fun conversation, one with as much savvy and street smarts as the characters who populate Jim's stories. Andy and Derek are happy to have on the podcast the multifaceted Jim Rugg, whose new printing of Street Angel (created with Brian Maruca) was just released by AdHouse. The guys talk with Jim about the significance of the new printing -- a colorful discussion -- as well as the book's protagonist Jesse Sanchez, an "orphan of the streets and skateboarding daughter of justice" who "fights a never ending battle against the forces of evil, nepotism, ninjas, and hunger." The artist discusses the title's early days at Slave Labor Graphics as a serial and its final issue as the launching pad for another Rugg/Maruca creation, Alan "Afrodisiac" Driesler, the mysterious, irresistible, smooth dark chocolate brother of the streets who fights to protect his turf and his ladies. And of course, it's inevitable that the guys get into a discussion of 1970s culture and comics, including kung fu, TV cop shows, blaxploitation films, and Big Jim action figures. Derek and Andy also talk with Jim about his work on other titles, including Supermag (AdHouse), The Plain Janes (DC/Minx), and his art for titles as diverse as The Guild, Adventure Time, and Henry and Glenn Forever and Ever. It's a fun conversation, one with as much savvy and street smarts as the characters who populate Jim's stories.

]]> 4232 no Episode 121 - The February Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-121.mp3 Welcome to February, faithful listeners! And just as day follows night, every new month brings another opportunity for the Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) to discuss the latest solicits in the Previews catalog. As you might expect, Andy and Derek find a lot to discuss in the new Previews, highlighting upcoming titles from premiere publishers, smaller presses, and a few outlets you may not have even heard of. For example, they discuss future releases from Dark Horse Comics (Brian Wood and Andrea Mutti's Rebels, Gilbert Hernandez's Grip: The Strange World of Men, and the latest volume of Eiji Otsuka and Housui Yamasaki's The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service), DC/Vertigo (their latest anthology, Vertigo Quarterly: SFX #1), IDW Publishing (the second volume in their new Corto Maltese reprint series, as well as IDW's new Disney comics initiative), Image Comics (new series such as Chip Zdarsky and Kagan McLeod's Kaptara, Alexi De Campi and Carla Speed McNeil's No Mercy, and Kurtis J. Wieebe and Johnnie Christmas's Pisces), AdHouse (Sophie Goldstein's The Oven), Alternative Comics (Sam Alden's Haunted, Steve Aylett's Johnny Viable and his Friends, and a new edition of Rich Tommaso's Clover Honey), Amulet Books (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales, Vol. 5: The Underground Abductor), Bergen Street Press (Michel Fiffe's Copra: Round Two), BOOM! Studios/Archaia (James Tynion IV, Noahh J. Yuenkel, and Matt Fox's Ufology #1 as well as the first collected volume of Lumberjanes), Drawn and Quarterly (the latest volume in Seth's Palookaville, Tadao Tsuge's Trash Market, and Jillian Tamaki's Supermutant Magic Academy), Fantagraphics Books (Vaughn Bodē's Cheech Wizard's Big Book of Me, Robert Goodin's The Kurdles, and Bill Schelly's new biography, Harvey Kurtzman: The Man Who Created Mad and Revolutionized Humor in America), Goff Books (Johnny Lau's World Water Wars), Microcosm Publishing (Lisa Wilde's Snake Pit Gets Old: Daily Diary Comics 2010-2012), Oni Press (Zander Cannon's Kaijumax #1), SelfMadeHero (Julie Birmant's Pablo and Ilya's Room for Love), Top Shelf Productions (Keith Knight's Knight Takes Queen and a reprint of Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story), and Viz Media's new deluxe edition of Junji Ito's Gyo. As is the case with every Previews episode, there's a lot packed into this week's show -- so get listening, get excited, and get reading! Wed, 04 Feb 2015 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Historic Month, or a Month of History? Welcome to February, faithful listeners! And just as day follows night, every new month brings another opportunity for the Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) to discuss the latest solicits in the Previews catalog. As you might expect, Andy and Derek find a lot to discuss in the new Previews, highlighting upcoming titles from premiere publishers, smaller presses, and a few outlets you may not have even heard of. For example, they discuss future releases from Dark Horse Comics (Brian Wood and Andrea Mutti's Rebels, Gilbert Hernandez's Grip: The Strange World of Men, and the latest volume of Eiji Otsuka and Housui Yamasaki's The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service), DC/Vertigo (their latest anthology, Vertigo Quarterly: SFX #1), IDW Publishing (the second volume in their new Corto Maltese reprint series, as well as IDW's new Disney comics initiative), Image Comics (new series such as Chip Zdarsky and Kagan McLeod's Kaptara, Alexi De Campi and Carla Speed McNeil's No Mercy, and Kurtis J. Wieebe and Johnnie Christmas's Pisces), AdHouse (Sophie Goldstein's The Oven), Alternative Comics (Sam Alden's Haunted, Steve Aylett's Johnny Viable and his Friends, and a new edition of Rich Tommaso's Clover Honey), Amulet Books (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales, Vol. 5: The Underground Abductor), Bergen Street Press (Michel Fiffe's Copra: Round Two), BOOM! Studios/Archaia (James Tynion IV, Noahh J. Yuenkel, and Matt Fox's Ufology #1 as well as the first collected volume of Lumberjanes), Drawn and Quarterly (the latest volume in Seth's Palookaville, Tadao Tsuge's Trash Market, and Jillian Tamaki's Supermutant Magic Academy), Fantagraphics Books (Vaughn Bodē's Cheech Wizard's Big Book of Me, Robert Goodin's The Kurdles, and Bill Schelly's new biography, Harvey Kurtzman: The Man Who Created Mad and Revolutionized Humor in America), Goff Books (Johnny Lau's World Water Wars), Microcosm Publishing (Lisa Wilde's Snake Pit Gets Old: Daily Diary Comics 2010-2012), Oni Press (Zander Cannon's Kaijumax #1), SelfMadeHero (Julie Birmant's Pablo and Ilya's Room for Love), Top Shelf Productions (Keith Knight's Knight Takes Queen and a reprint of Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story), and Viz Media's new deluxe edition of Junji Ito's Gyo. As is the case with every Previews episode, there's a lot packed into this week's show -- so get listening, get excited, and get reading! Welcome to February, faithful listeners! And just as day follows night, every new month brings another opportunity for the Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) to discuss the latest solicits in the Previews catalog. As you might expect, Andy and Derek find a lot to discuss in the new Previews, highlighting upcoming titles from premiere publishers, smaller presses, and a few outlets you may not have even heard of. For example, they discuss future releases from Dark Horse Comics (Brian Wood and Andrea Mutti's Rebels, Gilbert Hernandez's Grip: The Strange World of Men, and the latest volume of Eiji Otsuka and Housui Yamasaki's The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service), DC/Vertigo (their latest anthology, Vertigo Quarterly: SFX #1), IDW Publishing (the second volume in their new Corto Maltese reprint series, as well as IDW's new Disney comics initiative), Image Comics (new series such as Chip Zdarsky and Kagan McLeod's Kaptara, Alexi De Campi and Carla Speed McNeil's No Mercy, and Kurtis J. Wieebe and Johnnie Christmas's Pisces), AdHouse (Sophie Goldstein's The Oven), Alternative Comics (Sam Alden's Haunted, Steve Aylett's Johnny Viable and his Friends, and a new edition of Rich Tommaso's Clover Honey), Amulet Books (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales, Vol. 5: The Underground Abductor), Bergen Street Press (Michel Fiffe's Copra: Round Two), BOOM! Studios/Archaia (James Tynion IV, Noahh J. Yuenkel, and Matt Fox's Ufology #1 as well as the first collected volume of Lumberjanes), Drawn and Quarterly (the latest volume in Seth's Palookaville, Tadao Tsuge's Trash Market, and Jillian Tamaki's Supermutant Magic Academy), Fantagraphics Books (Vaughn Bodē's Cheech Wizard's Big Book of Me, Robert Goodin's The Kurdles, and Bill Schelly's new biography, Harvey Kurtzman: The Man Who Created Mad and Revolutionized Humor in America), Goff Books (Johnny Lau's World Water Wars), Microcosm Publishing (Lisa Wilde's Snake Pit Gets Old: Daily Diary Comics 2010-2012), Oni Press (Zander Cannon's Kaijumax #1), SelfMadeHero (Julie Birmant's Pablo and Ilya's Room for Love), Top Shelf Productions (Keith Knight's Knight Takes Queen and a reprint of Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story), and Viz Media's new deluxe edition of Junji Ito's Gyo. As is the case with every Previews episode, there's a lot packed into this week's show -- so get listening, get excited, and get reading!

]]> 5818 no Webcomics - Reviews of Back, The Only Living Boy, and When I Am King http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics3.mp3 It's new month, so that means it's time for another episode of The Comics Alternative Webcomics. For February Derek and Andy W. discuss two current ongoing webcomics and one completed title. First, they look at K. C. Green and Anthony Clark's Back, a western/fantasy story about the end of the world, or as the website describes it, "Not post apocalyptic, just the end of it all." This is a relatively new webcomic -- with only a short prologue and what appears to be the completed first chapter -- so the guys are really getting in on the ground floor with this one. They discuss the cartoony or iconic art style, which adds to the all-age flavor of the story, while at the same time commenting on the weighty philosophical themes the authors seem to be juggling: fate, destiny, and free will. There is also a lot of action and humor that will resonate with readers young and old. The only downside to this title -- if you want to call it a "downside" -- is that it's only updated once a week, every Wednesday, and this is such an fun read that the guys are bummed that they have to wait once a week for the next installment. Next, they look at The Only Living Boy, a adventurous dystopian fantasy from creators David Gallaher and Steve Ellis (and through their studio, Bottled Lightning). This is described as a young adult title, although Andy observes that this is the kind of story he would associate more with younger readers, and that it doesn't really fit in the "Young Adult" section that he's used to in his library. Nonetheless, The Only Boy is a title that can be appreciated by readers of all age, and having started a little over two years ago, there is enough material for anyone to get into Gallaher and Ellis's evolving narrative world. There are three chapters, or three issues, of the comic so far, and the webcomic is updated three times a week. Both Derek and Andy enjoy this title, but at the same time they comment on the haphazardness of the plotting -- at least at times it appears that way -- and the awkward navigability of the comic's archival pages. Finally, they look at Demian 5's When I Am King, an early webcomic that was created between October 1999 and July 2001. Even though this is an older title, the Two Guys comment on how current or up-to-date it appears, easily standing alongside -- and even possibly outshining -- many of the webcomics written today. The story is relatively simple, but it's the way that Damian 5 tells the tale that makes it so compelling. The creator definitely utilizes the "infinite canvas" of the web page, and there are many places where the reader has to scroll up, down, and to the sides in order to get all of the narrative. This kind of interactiveness makes this "simple" story even more engaging, and this, along with the variation of art styles and occasional animation, make When I Am King a classic in the webcomics medium. Mon, 02 Feb 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Kingdoms, Realms, and Back Again It's new month, so that means it's time for another episode of The Comics Alternative Webcomics. For February Derek and Andy W. discuss two current ongoing webcomics and one completed title. First, they look at K. C. Green and Anthony Clark's Back, a western/fantasy story about the end of the world, or as the website describes it, "Not post apocalyptic, just the end of it all." This is a relatively new webcomic -- with only a short prologue and what appears to be the completed first chapter -- so the guys are really getting in on the ground floor with this one. They discuss the cartoony or iconic art style, which adds to the all-age flavor of the story, while at the same time commenting on the weighty philosophical themes the authors seem to be juggling: fate, destiny, and free will. There is also a lot of action and humor that will resonate with readers young and old. The only downside to this title -- if you want to call it a "downside" -- is that it's only updated once a week, every Wednesday, and this is such an fun read that the guys are bummed that they have to wait once a week for the next installment. Next, they look at The Only Living Boy, a adventurous dystopian fantasy from creators David Gallaher and Steve Ellis (and through their studio, Bottled Lightning). This is described as a young adult title, although Andy observes that this is the kind of story he would associate more with younger readers, and that it doesn't really fit in the "Young Adult" section that he's used to in his library. Nonetheless, The Only Boy is a title that can be appreciated by readers of all age, and having started a little over two years ago, there is enough material for anyone to get into Gallaher and Ellis's evolving narrative world. There are three chapters, or three issues, of the comic so far, and the webcomic is updated three times a week. Both Derek and Andy enjoy this title, but at the same time they comment on the haphazardness of the plotting -- at least at times it appears that way -- and the awkward navigability of the comic's archival pages. Finally, they look at Demian 5's When I Am King, an early webcomic that was created between October 1999 and July 2001. Even though this is an older title, the Two Guys comment on how current or up-to-date it appears, easily standing alongside -- and even possibly outshining -- many of the webcomics written today. The story is relatively simple, but it's the way that Damian 5 tells the tale that makes it so compelling. The creator definitely utilizes the "infinite canvas" of the web page, and there are many places where the reader has to scroll up, down, and to the sides in order to get all of the narrative. This kind of interactiveness makes this "simple" story even more engaging, and this, along with the variation of art styles and occasional animation, make When I Am King a classic in the webcomics medium. It's new month, so that means it's time for another episode of The Comics Alternative Webcomics. For February Derek and Andy W. discuss two current ongoing webcomics and one completed title. First, they look at K. C. Green and Anthony Clark's Back, a western/fantasy story about the end of the world, or as the website describes it, "Not post apocalyptic, just the end of it all." This is a relatively new webcomic -- with only a short prologue and what appears to be the completed first chapter -- so the guys are really getting in on the ground floor with this one. They discuss the cartoony or iconic art style, which adds to the all-age flavor of the story, while at the same time commenting on the weighty philosophical themes the authors seem to be juggling: fate, destiny, and free will. There is also a lot of action and humor that will resonate with readers young and old. The only downside to this title -- if you want to call it a "downside" -- is that it's only updated once a week, every Wednesday, and this is such an fun read that the guys are bummed that they have to wait once a week for the next installment. Next, they look at The Only Living Boy, a adventurous dystopian fantasy from creators David Gallaher and Steve Ellis (and through their studio, Bottled Lightning). This is described as a young adult title, although Andy observes that this is the kind of story he would associate more with younger readers, and that it doesn't really fit in the "Young Adult" section that he's used to in his library. Nonetheless, The Only Boy is a title that can be appreciated by readers of all age, and having started a little over two years ago, there is enough material for anyone to get into Gallaher and Ellis's evolving narrative world. There are three chapters, or three issues, of the comic so far, and the webcomic is updated three times a week. Both Derek and Andy enjoy this title, but at the same time they comment on the haphazardness of the plotting -- at least at times it appears that way -- and the awkward navigability of the comic's archival pages. Finally, they look at Demian 5's When I Am King, an early webcomic that was created between October 1999 and July 2001. Even though this is an older title, the Two Guys comment on how current or up-to-date it appears, easily standing alongside -- and even possibly outshining -- many of the webcomics written today. The story is relatively simple, but it's the way that Damian 5 tells the tale that makes it so compelling. The creator definitely utilizes the "infinite canvas" of the web page, and there are many places where the reader has to scroll up, down, and to the sides in order to get all of the narrative. This kind of interactiveness makes this "simple" story even more engaging, and this, along with the variation of art styles and occasional animation, make When I Am King a classic in the webcomics medium.

]]> 5391 no Interviews - Steve Bryant http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews37-Bryant.mp3 On this latest episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek talks with Steve Bryant, the creator of Athena Voltaire. His latest collection, Athena Voltaire Compendium, was just released from Dark Horse Books and Sequential Pulp Comics. They begin their conversation by discussing the evolution of Athena Voltaire, how it began as a collaborative webcomic, eventually finding its way into a brief print run (via Speakeasy Comics and Ape Entertainment), turning into a successful Kickstarter campaign, ultimately resulting in a nice hardbound collection of five stories. Derek asks Steve about the ideas behind the character of Athena Voltaire, and he learns that not only did Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark serve as part of the titles’s inspiration, but so did Dave Steven’s Rocketeer as well as a broader, deep love for 1930s/1940s era pulp fiction. Steve shares the process behind the creation of the new Compendium, his passion for world building, work on the promised followup Athena Voltaire and the Volcano Goddess, and his desires to turn Athena Voltaire into more extensive ongoing series. If you love adventure and if you love pulp, this is a collection — and an interview — you don’t want to miss! Fri, 30 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Adventures with Steve and Athena On this latest episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek talks with Steve Bryant, the creator of Athena Voltaire. His latest collection, Athena Voltaire Compendium, was just released from Dark Horse Books and Sequential Pulp Comics. They begin their conversation by discussing the evolution of Athena Voltaire, how it began as a collaborative webcomic, eventually finding its way into a brief print run (via Speakeasy Comics and Ape Entertainment), turning into a successful Kickstarter campaign, ultimately resulting in a nice hardbound collection of five stories. Derek asks Steve about the ideas behind the character of Athena Voltaire, and he learns that not only did Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark serve as part of the titles’s inspiration, but so did Dave Steven’s Rocketeer as well as a broader, deep love for 1930s/1940s era pulp fiction. Steve shares the process behind the creation of the new Compendium, his passion for world building, work on the promised followup Athena Voltaire and the Volcano Goddess, and his desires to turn Athena Voltaire into more extensive ongoing series. If you love adventure and if you love pulp, this is a collection — and an interview — you don’t want to miss! On this latest episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek talks with Steve Bryant, the creator of Athena Voltaire. His latest collection, Athena Voltaire Compendium, was just released from Dark Horse Books and Sequential Pulp Comics. They begin their conversation by discussing the evolution of Athena Voltaire, how it began as a collaborative webcomic, eventually finding its way into a brief print run (via Speakeasy Comics and Ape Entertainment), turning into a successful Kickstarter campaign, ultimately resulting in a nice hardbound collection of five stories. Derek asks Steve about the ideas behind the character of Athena Voltaire, and he learns that not only did Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark serve as part of the titles’s inspiration, but so did Dave Steven’s Rocketeer as well as a broader, deep love for 1930s/1940s era pulp fiction. Steve shares the process behind the creation of the new Compendium, his passion for world building, work on the promised followup Athena Voltaire and the Volcano Goddess, and his desires to turn Athena Voltaire into more extensive ongoing series. If you love adventure and if you love pulp, this is a collection — and an interview — you don’t want to miss!

]]> 3796 no Episode 120 - Reviews of Vapor, Feathers #1, and The Dying and the Dead #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-120.mp3 This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy W. review three new titles guaranteed to make you hyperventilate with excitement...so breathe deep and take in the good, comicy vapors. And speaking of which, they begin by discussing the new book by Spanish creator Max, Vapor (Fantagraphics). They start with a brief context on Max, whose past books include The Extended Dream of Mr. D. and Bardin the Superrealist. His latest work is just as surreal and dreamlike as the earlier ones, and the guys have a good time exploring the possible meanings embedded in the narrative. Next they turn to the new miniseries written and drawn by Jorge Corona, Feathers (Archaia/BOOM! Studios). In this inaugural issue we have a perfect mix of setup, teaser, and substantive storytelling. Andy and Derek focus on the detailed groundwork that Corona lays out in his story, one that is clearly intended for an all-age readership. Finally, the guys turn their attention to the latest creator-owned property from the ever-prolific Jonathan Hickman, The Dying and the Dead #1 (Image). On this title he reunites with Ryan Bodenheim -- whose early collaborations include A Red Mass for Mars and Secret -- and works with colorist Michael Garland. In fact, the guys spend a lot of time discussing Garland's use of color, which adds significantly to the art and especially to Hickman's storytelling. As with Corona's Feathers, this is definitely a series Derek and Andy plan to continue with, and when you throw in Vapor, you have this week's trifecta of Comics Alternative goodness. Wed, 28 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Breathe Deep This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy W. review three new titles guaranteed to make you hyperventilate with excitement...so breathe deep and take in the good, comicy vapors. And speaking of which, they begin by discussing the new book by Spanish creator Max, Vapor (Fantagraphics). They start with a brief context on Max, whose past books include The Extended Dream of Mr. D. and Bardin the Superrealist. His latest work is just as surreal and dreamlike as the earlier ones, and the guys have a good time exploring the possible meanings embedded in the narrative. Next they turn to the new miniseries written and drawn by Jorge Corona, Feathers (Archaia/BOOM! Studios). In this inaugural issue we have a perfect mix of setup, teaser, and substantive storytelling. Andy and Derek focus on the detailed groundwork that Corona lays out in his story, one that is clearly intended for an all-age readership. Finally, the guys turn their attention to the latest creator-owned property from the ever-prolific Jonathan Hickman, The Dying and the Dead #1 (Image). On this title he reunites with Ryan Bodenheim -- whose early collaborations include A Red Mass for Mars and Secret -- and works with colorist Michael Garland. In fact, the guys spend a lot of time discussing Garland's use of color, which adds significantly to the art and especially to Hickman's storytelling. As with Corona's Feathers, this is definitely a series Derek and Andy plan to continue with, and when you throw in Vapor, you have this week's trifecta of Comics Alternative goodness. This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy W. review three new titles guaranteed to make you hyperventilate with excitement...so breathe deep and take in the good, comicy vapors. And speaking of which, they begin by discussing the new book by Spanish creator Max, Vapor (Fantagraphics). They start with a brief context on Max, whose past books include The Extended Dream of Mr. D. and Bardin the Superrealist. His latest work is just as surreal and dreamlike as the earlier ones, and the guys have a good time exploring the possible meanings embedded in the narrative. Next they turn to the new miniseries written and drawn by Jorge Corona, Feathers (Archaia/BOOM! Studios). In this inaugural issue we have a perfect mix of setup, teaser, and substantive storytelling. Andy and Derek focus on the detailed groundwork that Corona lays out in his story, one that is clearly intended for an all-age readership. Finally, the guys turn their attention to the latest creator-owned property from the ever-prolific Jonathan Hickman, The Dying and the Dead #1 (Image). On this title he reunites with Ryan Bodenheim -- whose early collaborations include A Red Mass for Mars and Secret -- and works with colorist Michael Garland. In fact, the guys spend a lot of time discussing Garland's use of color, which adds significantly to the art and especially to Hickman's storytelling. As with Corona's Feathers, this is definitely a series Derek and Andy plan to continue with, and when you throw in Vapor, you have this week's trifecta of Comics Alternative goodness.

]]> 5308 no Interviews - Ian Edginton http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews36-Edginton.mp3 For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. talk with Ian Edginton, the creator (along with D'Israeli) behind the recently re-released Kingdom of the Wicked (Titan Comics). The guys talk with Ian about the contexts surrounding this new edition of the book, his working relationship with D'Israeli (AKA Matt Brooker), and the various changes that the Titan edition brings. They go on to ask Ian about his penchant for world building, clearly evident in Kingdom of the Wicked, but even more prominent in two of his most recent projects, the Vertigo series Hinterkind (along with Francesco Trifogli) and his 2000 AD saga with I.N.J. Culbard, Brass Sun. Ian also discusses the story behind his adaptation of H.G. Wells's The War of the Worlds, and his original "sequels" to that classic, Scarlet Traces and The Great Game; his Sherlock Holmes adaptations with I.N.J. Culbard; and his work on a variety of other titles including Doctor Who, Judge Dredd, and Terminator. There's a lot packed into this interview, and the guys find Ian an extremely kind and forthcoming guest. Mon, 26 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal World Building with Ian For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. talk with Ian Edginton, the creator (along with D'Israeli) behind the recently re-released Kingdom of the Wicked (Titan Comics). The guys talk with Ian about the contexts surrounding this new edition of the book, his working relationship with D'Israeli (AKA Matt Brooker), and the various changes that the Titan edition brings. They go on to ask Ian about his penchant for world building, clearly evident in Kingdom of the Wicked, but even more prominent in two of his most recent projects, the Vertigo series Hinterkind (along with Francesco Trifogli) and his 2000 AD saga with I.N.J. Culbard, Brass Sun. Ian also discusses the story behind his adaptation of H.G. Wells's The War of the Worlds, and his original "sequels" to that classic, Scarlet Traces and The Great Game; his Sherlock Holmes adaptations with I.N.J. Culbard; and his work on a variety of other titles including Doctor Who, Judge Dredd, and Terminator. There's a lot packed into this interview, and the guys find Ian an extremely kind and forthcoming guest. For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. talk with Ian Edginton, the creator (along with D'Israeli) behind the recently re-released Kingdom of the Wicked (Titan Comics). The guys talk with Ian about the contexts surrounding this new edition of the book, his working relationship with D'Israeli (AKA Matt Brooker), and the various changes that the Titan edition brings. They go on to ask Ian about his penchant for world building, clearly evident in Kingdom of the Wicked, but even more prominent in two of his most recent projects, the Vertigo series Hinterkind (along with Francesco Trifogli) and his 2000 AD saga with I.N.J. Culbard, Brass Sun. Ian also discusses the story behind his adaptation of H.G. Wells's The War of the Worlds, and his original "sequels" to that classic, Scarlet Traces and The Great Game; his Sherlock Holmes adaptations with I.N.J. Culbard; and his work on a variety of other titles including Doctor Who, Judge Dredd, and Terminator. There's a lot packed into this interview, and the guys find Ian an extremely kind and forthcoming guest.

]]> 4937 no Interviews - Miss Lasko-Gross http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews35-Lasko-Gross.mp3 On this episode of their interview show, Derek and Andy are happy to have as they guest Miss Lasko-Gross, whose new book, Henni (Z2 Comics), has been getting a lot of press. They begin by asking her about all of the attention her graphic novel is receiving, especially in light of the recent Charlie Hebdo tragedy. She tells the guys that while the message of her book is rather timely, she wrote it as a broader, more allegorical narrative, one that addresses intolerance and oppression in a variety of forms. As Miss points out, our culture and those of others are unfortunately never in short supply of narrow-mindedness, a condition for which Henni can be an going reminder. The guys also ask her about her creative process, the narrative catalyst of drawing, and the role of scripting in her longer-form comics. Her art-driven style gives Henni a more deliberate, measured pacing, allowing the narrative more time to breathe. Andy and Derek also ask her about her earlier semi-autobiographical books, Escape from "Special" and A Mess of Everything, and how those narratives may relate to what she's doing in her latest graphic novel. The guys ask Miss about her strategies in writing the auto-bio books and what kind of reactions she has received from her fan base. Yet while Escape and Mess may share some links to her new book -- both Melissa in the auto-bio books and Henni are curious, questioning young women on a journey -- they are nonetheless two distinct projects. While the earlier books were attempts to represent her own life story, Henni is the first of a trilogy of books centered around a fantastic, pre-industrial land populated by anthropomorphic feline characters. Miss may eventually return to her autobiographical writing -- although that's not certain -- but she's definitely deep into and committed to Henni's story. So we can expect more well-crafted comics from Miss in the coming years. Fri, 23 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Allegories and Bathroom Catastrophes On this episode of their interview show, Derek and Andy are happy to have as they guest Miss Lasko-Gross, whose new book, Henni (Z2 Comics), has been getting a lot of press. They begin by asking her about all of the attention her graphic novel is receiving, especially in light of the recent Charlie Hebdo tragedy. She tells the guys that while the message of her book is rather timely, she wrote it as a broader, more allegorical narrative, one that addresses intolerance and oppression in a variety of forms. As Miss points out, our culture and those of others are unfortunately never in short supply of narrow-mindedness, a condition for which Henni can be an going reminder. The guys also ask her about her creative process, the narrative catalyst of drawing, and the role of scripting in her longer-form comics. Her art-driven style gives Henni a more deliberate, measured pacing, allowing the narrative more time to breathe. Andy and Derek also ask her about her earlier semi-autobiographical books, Escape from "Special" and A Mess of Everything, and how those narratives may relate to what she's doing in her latest graphic novel. The guys ask Miss about her strategies in writing the auto-bio books and what kind of reactions she has received from her fan base. Yet while Escape and Mess may share some links to her new book -- both Melissa in the auto-bio books and Henni are curious, questioning young women on a journey -- they are nonetheless two distinct projects. While the earlier books were attempts to represent her own life story, Henni is the first of a trilogy of books centered around a fantastic, pre-industrial land populated by anthropomorphic feline characters. Miss may eventually return to her autobiographical writing -- although that's not certain -- but she's definitely deep into and committed to Henni's story. So we can expect more well-crafted comics from Miss in the coming years. On this episode of their interview show, Derek and Andy are happy to have as they guest Miss Lasko-Gross, whose new book, Henni (Z2 Comics), has been getting a lot of press. They begin by asking her about all of the attention her graphic novel is receiving, especially in light of the recent Charlie Hebdo tragedy. She tells the guys that while the message of her book is rather timely, she wrote it as a broader, more allegorical narrative, one that addresses intolerance and oppression in a variety of forms. As Miss points out, our culture and those of others are unfortunately never in short supply of narrow-mindedness, a condition for which Henni can be an going reminder. The guys also ask her about her creative process, the narrative catalyst of drawing, and the role of scripting in her longer-form comics. Her art-driven style gives Henni a more deliberate, measured pacing, allowing the narrative more time to breathe. Andy and Derek also ask her about her earlier semi-autobiographical books, Escape from "Special" and A Mess of Everything, and how those narratives may relate to what she's doing in her latest graphic novel. The guys ask Miss about her strategies in writing the auto-bio books and what kind of reactions she has received from her fan base. Yet while Escape and Mess may share some links to her new book -- both Melissa in the auto-bio books and Henni are curious, questioning young women on a journey -- they are nonetheless two distinct projects. While the earlier books were attempts to represent her own life story, Henni is the first of a trilogy of books centered around a fantastic, pre-industrial land populated by anthropomorphic feline characters. Miss may eventually return to her autobiographical writing -- although that's not certain -- but she's definitely deep into and committed to Henni's story. So we can expect more well-crafted comics from Miss in the coming years.

]]> 3413 no Episode 119 - Reviews of Harvey Kurtzman’s Jungle Book, Generous Bosom, Part One, and Lady Killer #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-119.mp3 This week the Two Guys discuss three very different new titles. First, they look at Harvey Kurtzman's Jungle Book, another collaboration between Dark Horse Books and Kitchen Sink Books (an earlier such publication, The Best of Comix Book, was discussed last may). What's more, this is the first volume in the publishers' new Essential Kurtzman library. Andy and Derek begin by mentioning that neither of them had read Jungle Book before, although it has been on both of their radars, so they come to this volume as new contemporary readers. And that's one of the first things the guys discuss: the datedness of the stories. Originally published in 1959, Jungle Book comprises four shorter pieces, and in about all of them Kurtzman has embedded cultural references specific to the times. This is not necessarily an obstacle to enjoying the text, but both Derek and Andy appreciated this volume more as a cultural and historical artifact than they did a cohesive work of comics art. Kurtzman's original stories are accompanied by short supplemental material by the likes of Gilbert Shelton, Art Spiegelman, Peter Poplaski, Robert Crumb, and Denis Kitchen. Indeed, it is latter's essay that provides the necessary context, and the guys note that Kitchen's contribution is one of the highlights of this volume. Next they return to a creator that they discussed last summer, Conor Stechschulte, and his new book, Generous Bosom, Part One (Breakdown Press). This is a fascinating title that, while the first installment of a multipart narrative, easily stands on its own. Derek and Andy comment on the apparent raciness of comic, but they quickly point out that this is a much more sophisticated story than the title would suggest. The book has its share of sexual references (explicit at times), but it is a complex narrative that takes unexpected turns. Most impressive is Stechschulte's method of storytelling and the ways he uses his art to establish the interlocking narrative levels. Finally, the guys discuss Joëlle Jones and Jamie S. Rich's Lady Killer #1, the first in a five-part miniseries. What drew them to this title is Jones's art, which they really enjoyed when they discussed Helheim back in 2013. Now Jones has turned to scripting, on which she collaborates with Rich, and this first issue does a good job of establishing the miniseries' premise: a 1950s/60s hitwoman masquerading as an innocuous housewife. But while the story is interesting, it is Jones's art that really captures the guys' interest. Although they may wait for the trade in reading the rest of the story -- they have some issues with the first issue's pacing -- this is nonetheless a title worth checking out. Wed, 21 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy and Derek's Pleasure Package This week the Two Guys discuss three very different new titles. First, they look at Harvey Kurtzman's Jungle Book, another collaboration between Dark Horse Books and Kitchen Sink Books (an earlier such publication, The Best of Comix Book, was discussed last may). What's more, this is the first volume in the publishers' new Essential Kurtzman library. Andy and Derek begin by mentioning that neither of them had read Jungle Book before, although it has been on both of their radars, so they come to this volume as new contemporary readers. And that's one of the first things the guys discuss: the datedness of the stories. Originally published in 1959, Jungle Book comprises four shorter pieces, and in about all of them Kurtzman has embedded cultural references specific to the times. This is not necessarily an obstacle to enjoying the text, but both Derek and Andy appreciated this volume more as a cultural and historical artifact than they did a cohesive work of comics art. Kurtzman's original stories are accompanied by short supplemental material by the likes of Gilbert Shelton, Art Spiegelman, Peter Poplaski, Robert Crumb, and Denis Kitchen. Indeed, it is latter's essay that provides the necessary context, and the guys note that Kitchen's contribution is one of the highlights of this volume. Next they return to a creator that they discussed last summer, Conor Stechschulte, and his new book, Generous Bosom, Part One (Breakdown Press). This is a fascinating title that, while the first installment of a multipart narrative, easily stands on its own. Derek and Andy comment on the apparent raciness of comic, but they quickly point out that this is a much more sophisticated story than the title would suggest. The book has its share of sexual references (explicit at times), but it is a complex narrative that takes unexpected turns. Most impressive is Stechschulte's method of storytelling and the ways he uses his art to establish the interlocking narrative levels. Finally, the guys discuss Joëlle Jones and Jamie S. Rich's Lady Killer #1, the first in a five-part miniseries. What drew them to this title is Jones's art, which they really enjoyed when they discussed Helheim back in 2013. Now Jones has turned to scripting, on which she collaborates with Rich, and this first issue does a good job of establishing the miniseries' premise: a 1950s/60s hitwoman masquerading as an innocuous housewife. But while the story is interesting, it is Jones's art that really captures the guys' interest. Although they may wait for the trade in reading the rest of the story -- they have some issues with the first issue's pacing -- this is nonetheless a title worth checking out. This week the Two Guys discuss three very different new titles. First, they look at Harvey Kurtzman's Jungle Book, another collaboration between Dark Horse Books and Kitchen Sink Books (an earlier such publication, The Best of Comix Book, was discussed last may). What's more, this is the first volume in the publishers' new Essential Kurtzman library. Andy and Derek begin by mentioning that neither of them had read Jungle Book before, although it has been on both of their radars, so they come to this volume as new contemporary readers. And that's one of the first things the guys discuss: the datedness of the stories. Originally published in 1959, Jungle Book comprises four shorter pieces, and in about all of them Kurtzman has embedded cultural references specific to the times. This is not necessarily an obstacle to enjoying the text, but both Derek and Andy appreciated this volume more as a cultural and historical artifact than they did a cohesive work of comics art. Kurtzman's original stories are accompanied by short supplemental material by the likes of Gilbert Shelton, Art Spiegelman, Peter Poplaski, Robert Crumb, and Denis Kitchen. Indeed, it is latter's essay that provides the necessary context, and the guys note that Kitchen's contribution is one of the highlights of this volume. Next they return to a creator that they discussed last summer, Conor Stechschulte, and his new book, Generous Bosom, Part One (Breakdown Press). This is a fascinating title that, while the first installment of a multipart narrative, easily stands on its own. Derek and Andy comment on the apparent raciness of comic, but they quickly point out that this is a much more sophisticated story than the title would suggest. The book has its share of sexual references (explicit at times), but it is a complex narrative that takes unexpected turns. Most impressive is Stechschulte's method of storytelling and the ways he uses his art to establish the interlocking narrative levels. Finally, the guys discuss Joëlle Jones and Jamie S. Rich's Lady Killer #1, the first in a five-part miniseries. What drew them to this title is Jones's art, which they really enjoyed when they discussed Helheim back in 2013. Now Jones has turned to scripting, on which she collaborates with Rich, and this first issue does a good job of establishing the miniseries' premise: a 1950s/60s hitwoman masquerading as an innocuous housewife. But while the story is interesting, it is Jones's art that really captures the guys' interest. Although they may wait for the trade in reading the rest of the story -- they have some issues with the first issue's pacing -- this is nonetheless a title worth checking out.

]]> 4836 no Interviews - Brian K. Vaughan http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews34-Vaughan.mp3 The guys are pleased to have on their podcast the great Brian K. Vaughan. And for this conversation, Derek and Andy K. are joined by Andy Wolverton, who actually secured this interview for the show through his library connections. The guys begin by asking Brian about his thematic ambitions in Saga, and the discussion evolves from there. Over the course of their conversation, they ask their guest about the origins of the award-winning series, his melding of the sci-fi and fantasy genres, the challenges of juggling more than one ongoing title at a time, the stories behind the artists he chooses to work with, the pay-what-you-will philosophy behind The Private Eye, the future of Panel Syndicate, his loyal (and enthusiastic) fan base, the ever-evolving nature of comic conventions, and (as much as Brian can reveal) his new series that were recently announced at the Image Expo. Along the way they discuss not only his current titles, but also Brian's ever-popular Y: The Last Man, Ex Machina, Swamp Thing, The Runaways, and The Pride of Baghdad. This is an exciting interview for the guys, and it's a sign of the many great guests they will have on The Comics Alternative in the coming year. Mon, 19 Jan 2015 12:15:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal BKV Is in the House The guys are pleased to have on their podcast the great Brian K. Vaughan. And for this conversation, Derek and Andy K. are joined by Andy Wolverton, who actually secured this interview for the show through his library connections. The guys begin by asking Brian about his thematic ambitions in Saga, and the discussion evolves from there. Over the course of their conversation, they ask their guest about the origins of the award-winning series, his melding of the sci-fi and fantasy genres, the challenges of juggling more than one ongoing title at a time, the stories behind the artists he chooses to work with, the pay-what-you-will philosophy behind The Private Eye, the future of Panel Syndicate, his loyal (and enthusiastic) fan base, the ever-evolving nature of comic conventions, and (as much as Brian can reveal) his new series that were recently announced at the Image Expo. Along the way they discuss not only his current titles, but also Brian's ever-popular Y: The Last Man, Ex Machina, Swamp Thing, The Runaways, and The Pride of Baghdad. This is an exciting interview for the guys, and it's a sign of the many great guests they will have on The Comics Alternative in the coming year. The guys are pleased to have on their podcast the great Brian K. Vaughan. And for this conversation, Derek and Andy K. are joined by Andy Wolverton, who actually secured this interview for the show through his library connections. The guys begin by asking Brian about his thematic ambitions in Saga, and the discussion evolves from there. Over the course of their conversation, they ask their guest about the origins of the award-winning series, his melding of the sci-fi and fantasy genres, the challenges of juggling more than one ongoing title at a time, the stories behind the artists he chooses to work with, the pay-what-you-will philosophy behind The Private Eye, the future of Panel Syndicate, his loyal (and enthusiastic) fan base, the ever-evolving nature of comic conventions, and (as much as Brian can reveal) his new series that were recently announced at the Image Expo. Along the way they discuss not only his current titles, but also Brian's ever-popular Y: The Last Man, Ex Machina, Swamp Thing, The Runaways, and The Pride of Baghdad. This is an exciting interview for the guys, and it's a sign of the many great guests they will have on The Comics Alternative in the coming year.

]]> 4329 no On Location - Anticipating the New Year at Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation8.mp3 It's a new month -- and a new year! -- so Derek is back at his local shop, Collected in Plano, for another on-location episode of the podcast. This time he's joined by Collected regulars Shea, Nick, Matt, and Craig, and the discussion topic is "Comics in the New Year." Everyone brings up the various titles, events, and pop cultural phenomenon they are looking forward to in 2015. For some, it is the wrap up of currently ongoing series and storylines, particularly Fables and Spider-Verse; the occasion of a crossover event, such as Marvel's new Secret Wars or DC's Convergence (although there doesn't seem to be a lot of love for DC at this gathering); the publication of eagerly awaited graphic novels and trade collections (e.g., Harlan Ellison's City on the Edge of Forever and Scott McCloud's The Sculptor); announcements of brand new series; comics that were held over from 2014, such as Pascin and the latest volume of Love and Rockets: New Stories; and the new movies and television shows surrounding comics culture. As always, it's a fun discussion with these guys. And once again, the Two Guys thank the great folks at Collected for letting them come by every month! Fri, 16 Jan 2015 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal New Stuff for the New Year It's a new month -- and a new year! -- so Derek is back at his local shop, Collected in Plano, for another on-location episode of the podcast. This time he's joined by Collected regulars Shea, Nick, Matt, and Craig, and the discussion topic is "Comics in the New Year." Everyone brings up the various titles, events, and pop cultural phenomenon they are looking forward to in 2015. For some, it is the wrap up of currently ongoing series and storylines, particularly Fables and Spider-Verse; the occasion of a crossover event, such as Marvel's new Secret Wars or DC's Convergence (although there doesn't seem to be a lot of love for DC at this gathering); the publication of eagerly awaited graphic novels and trade collections (e.g., Harlan Ellison's City on the Edge of Forever and Scott McCloud's The Sculptor); announcements of brand new series; comics that were held over from 2014, such as Pascin and the latest volume of Love and Rockets: New Stories; and the new movies and television shows surrounding comics culture. As always, it's a fun discussion with these guys. And once again, the Two Guys thank the great folks at Collected for letting them come by every month! It's a new month -- and a new year! -- so Derek is back at his local shop, Collected in Plano, for another on-location episode of the podcast. This time he's joined by Collected regulars Shea, Nick, Matt, and Craig, and the discussion topic is "Comics in the New Year." Everyone brings up the various titles, events, and pop cultural phenomenon they are looking forward to in 2015. For some, it is the wrap up of currently ongoing series and storylines, particularly Fables and Spider-Verse; the occasion of a crossover event, such as Marvel's new Secret Wars or DC's Convergence (although there doesn't seem to be a lot of love for DC at this gathering); the publication of eagerly awaited graphic novels and trade collections (e.g., Harlan Ellison's City on the Edge of Forever and Scott McCloud's The Sculptor); announcements of brand new series; comics that were held over from 2014, such as Pascin and the latest volume of Love and Rockets: New Stories; and the new movies and television shows surrounding comics culture. As always, it's a fun discussion with these guys. And once again, the Two Guys thank the great folks at Collected for letting them come by every month!

]]> 4533 no Episode 118 - Reviews of Fatherland, Bullet Gal, and 1976 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-118.mp3 On this regular review episode of The Comics Alternative, the first of 2015, Andy and Derek discuss three very different titles. First, they look at the new graphic memoir from Nina Bunjevac, Fatherland: A Family History (Liveright). This is the story of the author’s life growing up with — or growing apart from — a father who becomes a staunch Serbian nationalist. Bunjevac provides a bit of history surrounding the Balkans, and does so through sophisticated storytelling, but one of the most outstanding aspects of Fatherland is her highly detailed, almost photographic art.  The guys got a little taste of Bunjevac’s work, particularly on the subject of her father, in their earlier discussion of Best American Comics of 2014. That collection included an excerpt from her previous book, Heartless, that had a similar feel. In her latest work, Bunjevac provides a more complete, and more complex, story that addresses the various facets of her father and his relationship with the family. Next the Two Guys look at two independent creators with unique offerings. They begin with Andrez Bergen’s Bullet Gal (If? Commix), which has is now up to issue #8. This is a different kind of crime or noir story, a fumetti-infused narrative that mixes tried-and-true conventions of the genre with off-beat salutes to classic cinema. As Derek and Andy point out, beginning with issue #7 the story takes a leap down the narrative rabbit hole, turning a mirror onto itself and becoming very Grant Morrisonesque. There are twelve issues planned for this series, and all will be collected in a 348-page trade that will be released this spring, Bullet Gal: It’s Not You, It’s Me (Under Belly Comics…and a Kickstarter campaign). This is definitely something you have to check out! And the same goes with the next work the guys discuss, Daniel White’s self-published 1976. This is perhaps one of the most difficult comics the guys have ever discussed on the show, primarily because most of the narrative is visually driven. Describing it on an audio-only podcast doesn’t do the book justice, and you have to see the actual copy to get the complete experience. The first installment, “New Rose,” is a surreal, even psychodelic comic whose framing and action appear to owe a lot to Jack Kirby. Along with the second part — although not yet published, the artist was kind enough to provide a preliminary print-off — it’s a punk rock-infused “journey” of self-discovery (maybe?) that strategically utilizes a simple color scheme. In fact, the guys recommend that you listen to White’s musical allusions in this comic, The Damned and The Sex Pistols, as you experience the work. Wed, 14 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Punkin’ Out On this regular review episode of The Comics Alternative, the first of 2015, Andy and Derek discuss three very different titles. First, they look at the new graphic memoir from Nina Bunjevac, Fatherland: A Family History (Liveright). This is the story of the author’s life growing up with — or growing apart from — a father who becomes a staunch Serbian nationalist. Bunjevac provides a bit of history surrounding the Balkans, and does so through sophisticated storytelling, but one of the most outstanding aspects of Fatherland is her highly detailed, almost photographic art.  The guys got a little taste of Bunjevac’s work, particularly on the subject of her father, in their earlier discussion of Best American Comics of 2014. That collection included an excerpt from her previous book, Heartless, that had a similar feel. In her latest work, Bunjevac provides a more complete, and more complex, story that addresses the various facets of her father and his relationship with the family. Next the Two Guys look at two independent creators with unique offerings. They begin with Andrez Bergen’s Bullet Gal (If? Commix), which has is now up to issue #8. This is a different kind of crime or noir story, a fumetti-infused narrative that mixes tried-and-true conventions of the genre with off-beat salutes to classic cinema. As Derek and Andy point out, beginning with issue #7 the story takes a leap down the narrative rabbit hole, turning a mirror onto itself and becoming very Grant Morrisonesque. There are twelve issues planned for this series, and all will be collected in a 348-page trade that will be released this spring, Bullet Gal: It’s Not You, It’s Me (Under Belly Comics…and a Kickstarter campaign). This is definitely something you have to check out! And the same goes with the next work the guys discuss, Daniel White’s self-published 1976. This is perhaps one of the most difficult comics the guys have ever discussed on the show, primarily because most of the narrative is visually driven. Describing it on an audio-only podcast doesn’t do the book justice, and you have to see the actual copy to get the complete experience. The first installment, “New Rose,” is a surreal, even psychodelic comic whose framing and action appear to owe a lot to Jack Kirby. Along with the second part — although not yet published, the artist was kind enough to provide a preliminary print-off — it’s a punk rock-infused “journey” of self-discovery (maybe?) that strategically utilizes a simple color scheme. In fact, the guys recommend that you listen to White’s musical allusions in this comic, The Damned and The Sex Pistols, as you experience the work. On this regular review episode of The Comics Alternative, the first of 2015, Andy and Derek discuss three very different titles. First, they look at the new graphic memoir from Nina Bunjevac, Fatherland: A Family History (Liveright). This is the story of the author’s life growing up with — or growing apart from — a father who becomes a staunch Serbian nationalist. Bunjevac provides a bit of history surrounding the Balkans, and does so through sophisticated storytelling, but one of the most outstanding aspects of Fatherland is her highly detailed, almost photographic art.  The guys got a little taste of Bunjevac’s work, particularly on the subject of her father, in their earlier discussion of Best American Comics of 2014. That collection included an excerpt from her previous book, Heartless, that had a similar feel. In her latest work, Bunjevac provides a more complete, and more complex, story that addresses the various facets of her father and his relationship with the family. Next the Two Guys look at two independent creators with unique offerings. They begin with Andrez Bergen’s Bullet Gal (If? Commix), which has is now up to issue #8. This is a different kind of crime or noir story, a fumetti-infused narrative that mixes tried-and-true conventions of the genre with off-beat salutes to classic cinema. As Derek and Andy point out, beginning with issue #7 the story takes a leap down the narrative rabbit hole, turning a mirror onto itself and becoming very Grant Morrisonesque. There are twelve issues planned for this series, and all will be collected in a 348-page trade that will be released this spring, Bullet Gal: It’s Not You, It’s Me (Under Belly Comics…and a Kickstarter campaign). This is definitely something you have to check out! And the same goes with the next work the guys discuss, Daniel White’s self-published 1976. This is perhaps one of the most difficult comics the guys have ever discussed on the show, primarily because most of the narrative is visually driven. Describing it on an audio-only podcast doesn’t do the book justice, and you have to see the actual copy to get the complete experience. The first installment, “New Rose,” is a surreal, even psychodelic comic whose framing and action appear to owe a lot to Jack Kirby. Along with the second part — although not yet published, the artist was kind enough to provide a preliminary print-off — it’s a punk rock-infused “journey” of self-discovery (maybe?) that strategically utilizes a simple color scheme. In fact, the guys recommend that you listen to White’s musical allusions in this comic, The Damned and The Sex Pistols, as you experience the work.

]]> 5308 no Webcomics - Reviews of Vattu, Stand Still. Stay Silent, and The Right Number http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics2.mp3 The Two Guys are back for another installment in their new monthly show devoted to webcomics. For January, Derek and Andy W. have three engaging titles to discuss. First, they look at Evan Dahm’s Vattu, a fantasy adventure reminiscent of Bone, and with tones of sword-and-sorcery. This webcomic has been going on since July 2010, updated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Currently it’s in its third book — the first, comprising 270 pages, has been collected in printed form and can be purchased through Dahm’s website — and the initial storyline has evolved into a much vaster narrative. The guys comment on Dahm’s knack for complex world-building, as well as the vibrant, eye-catching art. Vattu is the winner of the 2014 Ignatz Award for Best Online Comic, and there is a reason why Andy and Derek wanted to feature this as one of their current and ongoing webcomics for the month. Next, they turn their attention to another current title, Minna Sundberg’s Stand Still. Stay Silent, a post-apocalyptic adventure set in a ravaged Scandinavian setting. Its premise is that a virus suddenly wipes out much of the human, and mammal, population, leaving only a limited number of survivors. This event, referred to as “the great cataclysm,” has ended the world as we know it, and an unlikely group of survivors — including mages — sets out to make safe a world of violence, desolation, and fantastical beasts. Both Andy and Derek are enjoying this ongoing tale, but they note an abrupt (and perhaps unexpected?) shift in tone from a more realistic style into one that is more fantastical. What’s more, they feel mixed about Sundberg’s commentary that accompanies each story installment. Sometimes, these reflections or annotations turn out to be unintended spoilers, and readers can leave their own spoilery thoughts. But fans of SSSS (as it is commonly know) apparently love this kind of reader engagement, making Sundberg’s one of the most popular webcomics around. Finally, and for their older and already completed webcomic, they discuss one of the first high-visible advocates for webcomics, Scott McCloud. His two-part graphic novella, The Right Number, was written between 2003 and 2004, and it utilizes an experimental zooming format. There is a projected third installment, as McCloud points out on his website, but due to unexpected delays and competing projects, the conclusion has yet to be written. But although we’ve been waiting ten years for the story to wrap up, and although this isn’t technically a “completed” webcomic, Derek and Andy nonetheless wanted to give some love to one of the earliest experimenters of the webcomic format. Fri, 09 Jan 2015 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Amazon as Stalker The Two Guys are back for another installment in their new monthly show devoted to webcomics. For January, Derek and Andy W. have three engaging titles to discuss. First, they look at Evan Dahm’s Vattu, a fantasy adventure reminiscent of Bone, and with tones of sword-and-sorcery. This webcomic has been going on since July 2010, updated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Currently it’s in its third book — the first, comprising 270 pages, has been collected in printed form and can be purchased through Dahm’s website — and the initial storyline has evolved into a much vaster narrative. The guys comment on Dahm’s knack for complex world-building, as well as the vibrant, eye-catching art. Vattu is the winner of the 2014 Ignatz Award for Best Online Comic, and there is a reason why Andy and Derek wanted to feature this as one of their current and ongoing webcomics for the month. Next, they turn their attention to another current title, Minna Sundberg’s Stand Still. Stay Silent, a post-apocalyptic adventure set in a ravaged Scandinavian setting. Its premise is that a virus suddenly wipes out much of the human, and mammal, population, leaving only a limited number of survivors. This event, referred to as “the great cataclysm,” has ended the world as we know it, and an unlikely group of survivors — including mages — sets out to make safe a world of violence, desolation, and fantastical beasts. Both Andy and Derek are enjoying this ongoing tale, but they note an abrupt (and perhaps unexpected?) shift in tone from a more realistic style into one that is more fantastical. What’s more, they feel mixed about Sundberg’s commentary that accompanies each story installment. Sometimes, these reflections or annotations turn out to be unintended spoilers, and readers can leave their own spoilery thoughts. But fans of SSSS (as it is commonly know) apparently love this kind of reader engagement, making Sundberg’s one of the most popular webcomics around. Finally, and for their older and already completed webcomic, they discuss one of the first high-visible advocates for webcomics, Scott McCloud. His two-part graphic novella, The Right Number, was written between 2003 and 2004, and it utilizes an experimental zooming format. There is a projected third installment, as McCloud points out on his website, but due to unexpected delays and competing projects, the conclusion has yet to be written. But although we’ve been waiting ten years for the story to wrap up, and although this isn’t technically a “completed” webcomic, Derek and Andy nonetheless wanted to give some love to one of the earliest experimenters of the webcomic format. The Two Guys are back for another installment in their new monthly show devoted to webcomics. For January, Derek and Andy W. have three engaging titles to discuss. First, they look at Evan Dahm’s Vattu, a fantasy adventure reminiscent of Bone, and with tones of sword-and-sorcery. This webcomic has been going on since July 2010, updated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Currently it’s in its third book — the first, comprising 270 pages, has been collected in printed form and can be purchased through Dahm’s website — and the initial storyline has evolved into a much vaster narrative. The guys comment on Dahm’s knack for complex world-building, as well as the vibrant, eye-catching art. Vattu is the winner of the 2014 Ignatz Award for Best Online Comic, and there is a reason why Andy and Derek wanted to feature this as one of their current and ongoing webcomics for the month. Next, they turn their attention to another current title, Minna Sundberg’s Stand Still. Stay Silent, a post-apocalyptic adventure set in a ravaged Scandinavian setting. Its premise is that a virus suddenly wipes out much of the human, and mammal, population, leaving only a limited number of survivors. This event, referred to as “the great cataclysm,” has ended the world as we know it, and an unlikely group of survivors — including mages — sets out to make safe a world of violence, desolation, and fantastical beasts. Both Andy and Derek are enjoying this ongoing tale, but they note an abrupt (and perhaps unexpected?) shift in tone from a more realistic style into one that is more fantastical. What’s more, they feel mixed about Sundberg’s commentary that accompanies each story installment. Sometimes, these reflections or annotations turn out to be unintended spoilers, and readers can leave their own spoilery thoughts. But fans of SSSS (as it is commonly know) apparently love this kind of reader engagement, making Sundberg’s one of the most popular webcomics around. Finally, and for their older and already completed webcomic, they discuss one of the first high-visible advocates for webcomics, Scott McCloud. His two-part graphic novella, The Right Number, was written between 2003 and 2004, and it utilizes an experimental zooming format. There is a projected third installment, as McCloud points out on his website, but due to unexpected delays and competing projects, the conclusion has yet to be written. But although we’ve been waiting ten years for the story to wrap up, and although this isn’t technically a “completed” webcomic, Derek and Andy nonetheless wanted to give some love to one of the earliest experimenters of the webcomic format.

]]> 5635 no Episode 117 - The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-117.mp3 It’s a new year, and it’s a new month on The Comics Alternative. So that means it’s time for another look at the Previews catalog! On this episode, Andy and Derek look through the January solicits, highlighting the various comics that will be appearing in another two-four months. Among the titles catching their interests are Pastaways #1, Neverboy#1, and Apocalyptigirl (Dark Horse Comics); the final chapters of Grant Morrison’s Multiversity, Strange Sports Stories #1, and new editions of Astro City trades (DC/Vertigo); Wormwood: Gentleman Corpse: The First Few Pints and Weird Love #6 (IDW Publishing); Chrononauts #1, Descender #1, Southern Cross #1, and Sexcastle (Image Comics); Men of Wrath (Marvel Comics); The Age of Selfishness and Just So Happens (Abrams ComicArt); Hit: 1957 #1 and The Con Job #1 (BOOM! Studios); Project Superpowers: Backcross #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); The Complete Eightball, Inner City Romance, Angry Youth Comix, and Dripping with Fear: The Steve Ditko Archives Vol. 5 (Fantagraphics); The Glorkian Warrior Eats Adventure Pie (First Second); The Other Side of the Wall (Lerner Publishing Group); Doctor Who: The Ninth Doctor #1 and The Light and Darkness War (Titan Comics); and Nemo: River of Ghosts (Top Shelf Productions). The guys also spend a bit of time discussing some of the upcoming releases for this year’s Free Comic Book Day, which are also announced in this month’s Previews. All in all, there are a lot of great releases to look forward to, all of which portend an exciting 2015. Wed, 07 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Everybody gets nipple bolts” It’s a new year, and it’s a new month on The Comics Alternative. So that means it’s time for another look at the Previews catalog! On this episode, Andy and Derek look through the January solicits, highlighting the various comics that will be appearing in another two-four months. Among the titles catching their interests are Pastaways #1, Neverboy#1, and Apocalyptigirl (Dark Horse Comics); the final chapters of Grant Morrison’s Multiversity, Strange Sports Stories #1, and new editions of Astro City trades (DC/Vertigo); Wormwood: Gentleman Corpse: The First Few Pints and Weird Love #6 (IDW Publishing); Chrononauts #1, Descender #1, Southern Cross #1, and Sexcastle (Image Comics); Men of Wrath (Marvel Comics); The Age of Selfishness and Just So Happens (Abrams ComicArt); Hit: 1957 #1 and The Con Job #1 (BOOM! Studios); Project Superpowers: Backcross #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); The Complete Eightball, Inner City Romance, Angry Youth Comix, and Dripping with Fear: The Steve Ditko Archives Vol. 5 (Fantagraphics); The Glorkian Warrior Eats Adventure Pie (First Second); The Other Side of the Wall (Lerner Publishing Group); Doctor Who: The Ninth Doctor #1 and The Light and Darkness War (Titan Comics); and Nemo: River of Ghosts (Top Shelf Productions). The guys also spend a bit of time discussing some of the upcoming releases for this year’s Free Comic Book Day, which are also announced in this month’s Previews. All in all, there are a lot of great releases to look forward to, all of which portend an exciting 2015. It’s a new year, and it’s a new month on The Comics Alternative. So that means it’s time for another look at the Previews catalog! On this episode, Andy and Derek look through the January solicits, highlighting the various comics that will be appearing in another two-four months. Among the titles catching their interests are Pastaways #1, Neverboy#1, and Apocalyptigirl (Dark Horse Comics); the final chapters of Grant Morrison’s Multiversity, Strange Sports Stories #1, and new editions of Astro City trades (DC/Vertigo); Wormwood: Gentleman Corpse: The First Few Pints and Weird Love #6 (IDW Publishing); Chrononauts #1, Descender #1, Southern Cross #1, and Sexcastle (Image Comics); Men of Wrath (Marvel Comics); The Age of Selfishness and Just So Happens (Abrams ComicArt); Hit: 1957 #1 and The Con Job #1 (BOOM! Studios); Project Superpowers: Backcross #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); The Complete Eightball, Inner City Romance, Angry Youth Comix, and Dripping with Fear: The Steve Ditko Archives Vol. 5 (Fantagraphics); The Glorkian Warrior Eats Adventure Pie (First Second); The Other Side of the Wall (Lerner Publishing Group); Doctor Who: The Ninth Doctor #1 and The Light and Darkness War (Titan Comics); and Nemo: River of Ghosts (Top Shelf Productions). The guys also spend a bit of time discussing some of the upcoming releases for this year’s Free Comic Book Day, which are also announced in this month’s Previews. All in all, there are a lot of great releases to look forward to, all of which portend an exciting 2015.

]]> 5944 no Interviews - Still More Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews33-Yoe.mp3 It’s a brand spanking new year, and it’s sure to be another great twelve months for interviews on The Comics Alternative. In fact, Andy and Derek start things off with a bang! this month with another visit from the always-friendly, always-funky, and always-fun Craig Yoe. This is the third time he has been on the show, and this time around the guys not only talk with Craig about his latest releases, but they also discuss the past, present, and future of Yoe Books. It’s the 5th anniversary of the imprint, and starting off a year-long celebration marking the occasion, Craig reveals his new Yippie Yi Yoe Society. Derek and Andy were fortunate to get their complimentary membership package in the mail last month, complete with a snazzy welcome letter, an official membership card, a society sticker, a cool “I Belong to the Yippie Yi Yoe Society” button, and a DVD with videos and music…including the club’s song, “The Merry Yippie Yi Yoe Society Marching Song.” Is that cool, or what? Then the guys get into the nitty gritty of Creepy Craig’s latest efforts, the two new books Ditko’s Shorts and Howard Nostrand’s Nightmares (Yoe Books/IDW Publishing). They spend a lot of time talking about the new Ditko effort, talking with Craig about the genesis of the project, the research he and Fester Faceplate (AKA Mark Knox) conducted for the volume, and behind-the-scenes shenanigans that should excite any true Ditko fan. Next, they delve into the new Nostrand collection, the latest in Craig’s “Chilling Archives of Horror Comics” series, discussing an artist who is sorely overlooked yet so vital to the horror genre. As the great forelocked one points out in the book’s introduction, had Jack Davis and Wally Wood had a love child, it would have been Howard Nostrand. Derek and Andy try to get Craig to discuss any future and yet-to-be-announced Yoe Book projects — he never spill the beans — but he does talk a little about books that will be released early this year, including Tom Sutton’s Creepy Things, The Untold History of Black Comic Books, and Milt Gross’ New York. In fact, the guys want to have Craig back on the podcast to talk about the new Milt Gross book, so listeners probably won’t have to wait too long to get a another shot of Yoe. Mon, 05 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Happy New Yoe! It’s a brand spanking new year, and it’s sure to be another great twelve months for interviews on The Comics Alternative. In fact, Andy and Derek start things off with a bang! this month with another visit from the always-friendly, always-funky, and always-fun Craig Yoe. This is the third time he has been on the show, and this time around the guys not only talk with Craig about his latest releases, but they also discuss the past, present, and future of Yoe Books. It’s the 5th anniversary of the imprint, and starting off a year-long celebration marking the occasion, Craig reveals his new Yippie Yi Yoe Society. Derek and Andy were fortunate to get their complimentary membership package in the mail last month, complete with a snazzy welcome letter, an official membership card, a society sticker, a cool “I Belong to the Yippie Yi Yoe Society” button, and a DVD with videos and music…including the club’s song, “The Merry Yippie Yi Yoe Society Marching Song.” Is that cool, or what? Then the guys get into the nitty gritty of Creepy Craig’s latest efforts, the two new books Ditko’s Shorts and Howard Nostrand’s Nightmares (Yoe Books/IDW Publishing). They spend a lot of time talking about the new Ditko effort, talking with Craig about the genesis of the project, the research he and Fester Faceplate (AKA Mark Knox) conducted for the volume, and behind-the-scenes shenanigans that should excite any true Ditko fan. Next, they delve into the new Nostrand collection, the latest in Craig’s “Chilling Archives of Horror Comics” series, discussing an artist who is sorely overlooked yet so vital to the horror genre. As the great forelocked one points out in the book’s introduction, had Jack Davis and Wally Wood had a love child, it would have been Howard Nostrand. Derek and Andy try to get Craig to discuss any future and yet-to-be-announced Yoe Book projects — he never spill the beans — but he does talk a little about books that will be released early this year, including Tom Sutton’s Creepy Things, The Untold History of Black Comic Books, and Milt Gross’ New York. In fact, the guys want to have Craig back on the podcast to talk about the new Milt Gross book, so listeners probably won’t have to wait too long to get a another shot of Yoe. It’s a brand spanking new year, and it’s sure to be another great twelve months for interviews on The Comics Alternative. In fact, Andy and Derek start things off with a bang! this month with another visit from the always-friendly, always-funky, and always-fun Craig Yoe. This is the third time he has been on the show, and this time around the guys not only talk with Craig about his latest releases, but they also discuss the past, present, and future of Yoe Books. It’s the 5th anniversary of the imprint, and starting off a year-long celebration marking the occasion, Craig reveals his new Yippie Yi Yoe Society. Derek and Andy were fortunate to get their complimentary membership package in the mail last month, complete with a snazzy welcome letter, an official membership card, a society sticker, a cool “I Belong to the Yippie Yi Yoe Society” button, and a DVD with videos and music…including the club’s song, “The Merry Yippie Yi Yoe Society Marching Song.” Is that cool, or what? Then the guys get into the nitty gritty of Creepy Craig’s latest efforts, the two new books Ditko’s Shorts and Howard Nostrand’s Nightmares (Yoe Books/IDW Publishing). They spend a lot of time talking about the new Ditko effort, talking with Craig about the genesis of the project, the research he and Fester Faceplate (AKA Mark Knox) conducted for the volume, and behind-the-scenes shenanigans that should excite any true Ditko fan. Next, they delve into the new Nostrand collection, the latest in Craig’s “Chilling Archives of Horror Comics” series, discussing an artist who is sorely overlooked yet so vital to the horror genre. As the great forelocked one points out in the book’s introduction, had Jack Davis and Wally Wood had a love child, it would have been Howard Nostrand. Derek and Andy try to get Craig to discuss any future and yet-to-be-announced Yoe Book projects — he never spill the beans — but he does talk a little about books that will be released early this year, including Tom Sutton’s Creepy Things, The Untold History of Black Comic Books, and Milt Gross’ New York. In fact, the guys want to have Craig back on the podcast to talk about the new Milt Gross book, so listeners probably won’t have to wait too long to get a another shot of Yoe.

]]> 5886 yes Episode 116 - Our Favorite Comics of 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-116.mp3 It’s the end of the year, and you know what that means? No, it’s doesn’t involve a fat guy with toys, any spinning wooden things, or even annoying events involving Anderson Cooper and Kathy Gifford. It’s time for Andy and Derek’s end-of-the-year top ten favorites episode! The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) like to end every year by highlighting their favorite titles of the past twelve months. These could be ongoing series, limited runs or miniseries, one-shots, trades, original graphic novels, webcomics, or archival collections. So for this week’s episode, Derek and Andy each choose their favorite ten comics from 2014 and then share that list with one another. They don’t necessarily rank them in any order — although both guys do hint at their top picks — and neither knows of the other’s ten favorites before they record the podcast. As such, the Guys not only have a great time discussing the year’s best comics, but also in discovering what each other feels is truly his favorite. There are a few overlaps between Andy and Derek’s choices, but even more significantly, there are some big surprises in each one’s list! Wed, 31 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Really Good Stuff It’s the end of the year, and you know what that means? No, it’s doesn’t involve a fat guy with toys, any spinning wooden things, or even annoying events involving Anderson Cooper and Kathy Gifford. It’s time for Andy and Derek’s end-of-the-year top ten favorites episode! The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) like to end every year by highlighting their favorite titles of the past twelve months. These could be ongoing series, limited runs or miniseries, one-shots, trades, original graphic novels, webcomics, or archival collections. So for this week’s episode, Derek and Andy each choose their favorite ten comics from 2014 and then share that list with one another. They don’t necessarily rank them in any order — although both guys do hint at their top picks — and neither knows of the other’s ten favorites before they record the podcast. As such, the Guys not only have a great time discussing the year’s best comics, but also in discovering what each other feels is truly his favorite. There are a few overlaps between Andy and Derek’s choices, but even more significantly, there are some big surprises in each one’s list! It’s the end of the year, and you know what that means? No, it’s doesn’t involve a fat guy with toys, any spinning wooden things, or even annoying events involving Anderson Cooper and Kathy Gifford. It’s time for Andy and Derek’s end-of-the-year top ten favorites episode! The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) like to end every year by highlighting their favorite titles of the past twelve months. These could be ongoing series, limited runs or miniseries, one-shots, trades, original graphic novels, webcomics, or archival collections. So for this week’s episode, Derek and Andy each choose their favorite ten comics from 2014 and then share that list with one another. They don’t necessarily rank them in any order — although both guys do hint at their top picks — and neither knows of the other’s ten favorites before they record the podcast. As such, the Guys not only have a great time discussing the year’s best comics, but also in discovering what each other feels is truly his favorite. There are a few overlaps between Andy and Derek’s choices, but even more significantly, there are some big surprises in each one’s list!

]]> 6316 no Episode 115 - A Review of The Best American Comics 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-115.mp3 On this episode of the podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics review The Best American Comics 2014, the latest installment in Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s ambitious anthology series. This follows a previous review show published earlier in the week where the guys spoke with Bill Kartalopoulos, the new editor of the series. But whereas during the interview Derek and Andy learned about the process and backstory to the Best American Comics series, in this episode they plunge into the specifics of this year’s volume and give their own takes on the comics included. They begin with a larger discussion on the concept of “best American comics,” the kind of audiences the annual collections appeal to, and the efforts of the editors in pulling together a select or representative anthology. Here, the guys return to issues they had previously highlighted in their review of The Best American Comics 2013: the predilections and experiences of guest editors, the challenges of being inclusive, as well as the viability of a “best of” anthology. This time around Andy and Derek bandy about definitions of “mainstream” and speculate on the book’s intended audience. Although both feel that this is an intelligent and eclectic collection of comics (first appearing between September 1, 2012, and August 30, 2013), Derek feels that the book might appeal more to academics and the New Yorker crowd than it does to general comic shop-visiting readers. (Returning, once again, to a topic that the guys have discussed many times previously, the unintended bifurcation of comics readership.) Furthermore, he wonders what a volume guest edited by someone enmeshed in mainstream comics – and not just superhero comics – might look like…if that is indeed a direction that Houghton Mifflin Harcourt would sanction. Andy reminds Derek how inclusive this year’s volume is, and that depending on your definition of “mainstream,” McCloud’s includes several comics you could certainly define as “popular.” But despite these dialectics, both guys agree that this is one of the strongest collections in the series’ run and that the way that McCloud has organized his presentation is compelling. In this year’s volume you have selections from the grand figures of contemporary comics (e.g., R. Crumb, the Hernandez brothers, Charles Burns, Ben Katchor, and Adrian Tomine), all-age and young-adult comics, excerpts from memoir and autobiographical comics, historical works, experimenters of narrative form, abstract and avant-garde comics, and almost as a centerpiece, a selection from what McCloud christens “the book of the year,” Chris Ware’s Building Stories. Webcomics are given their fair share of attention in this volume, and the guys understand McCloud’s decision to highlight and list URLs instead of attempting to reproduce comics from another platform (although they’re not as excited by the one webcomic that does find its way into the collection, an excerpt from Allie Brosh’s “Depression Part Two”). All in all, the guys have a great time discussing the many selections in The Best American Comics 2014, and in doing so, they get all revved up for their own “best of” exercise which they will present in next week’s podcast episode. Wed, 24 Dec 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Better Best On this episode of the podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics review The Best American Comics 2014, the latest installment in Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s ambitious anthology series. This follows a previous review show published earlier in the week where the guys spoke with Bill Kartalopoulos, the new editor of the series. But whereas during the interview Derek and Andy learned about the process and backstory to the Best American Comics series, in this episode they plunge into the specifics of this year’s volume and give their own takes on the comics included. They begin with a larger discussion on the concept of “best American comics,” the kind of audiences the annual collections appeal to, and the efforts of the editors in pulling together a select or representative anthology. Here, the guys return to issues they had previously highlighted in their review of The Best American Comics 2013: the predilections and experiences of guest editors, the challenges of being inclusive, as well as the viability of a “best of” anthology. This time around Andy and Derek bandy about definitions of “mainstream” and speculate on the book’s intended audience. Although both feel that this is an intelligent and eclectic collection of comics (first appearing between September 1, 2012, and August 30, 2013), Derek feels that the book might appeal more to academics and the New Yorker crowd than it does to general comic shop-visiting readers. (Returning, once again, to a topic that the guys have discussed many times previously, the unintended bifurcation of comics readership.) Furthermore, he wonders what a volume guest edited by someone enmeshed in mainstream comics – and not just superhero comics – might look like…if that is indeed a direction that Houghton Mifflin Harcourt would sanction. Andy reminds Derek how inclusive this year’s volume is, and that depending on your definition of “mainstream,” McCloud’s includes several comics you could certainly define as “popular.” But despite these dialectics, both guys agree that this is one of the strongest collections in the series’ run and that the way that McCloud has organized his presentation is compelling. In this year’s volume you have selections from the grand figures of contemporary comics (e.g., R. Crumb, the Hernandez brothers, Charles Burns, Ben Katchor, and Adrian Tomine), all-age and young-adult comics, excerpts from memoir and autobiographical comics, historical works, experimenters of narrative form, abstract and avant-garde comics, and almost as a centerpiece, a selection from what McCloud christens “the book of the year,” Chris Ware’s Building Stories. Webcomics are given their fair share of attention in this volume, and the guys understand McCloud’s decision to highlight and list URLs instead of attempting to reproduce comics from another platform (although they’re not as excited by the one webcomic that does find its way into the collection, an excerpt from Allie Brosh’s “Depression Part Two”). All in all, the guys have a great time discussing the many selections in The Best American Comics 2014, and in doing so, they get all revved up for their own “best of” exercise which they will present in next week’s podcast episode. On this episode of the podcast, the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics review The Best American Comics 2014, the latest installment in Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s ambitious anthology series. This follows a previous review show published earlier in the week where the guys spoke with Bill Kartalopoulos, the new editor of the series. But whereas during the interview Derek and Andy learned about the process and backstory to the Best American Comics series, in this episode they plunge into the specifics of this year’s volume and give their own takes on the comics included. They begin with a larger discussion on the concept of “best American comics,” the kind of audiences the annual collections appeal to, and the efforts of the editors in pulling together a select or representative anthology. Here, the guys return to issues they had previously highlighted in their review of The Best American Comics 2013: the predilections and experiences of guest editors, the challenges of being inclusive, as well as the viability of a “best of” anthology. This time around Andy and Derek bandy about definitions of “mainstream” and speculate on the book’s intended audience. Although both feel that this is an intelligent and eclectic collection of comics (first appearing between September 1, 2012, and August 30, 2013), Derek feels that the book might appeal more to academics and the New Yorker crowd than it does to general comic shop-visiting readers. (Returning, once again, to a topic that the guys have discussed many times previously, the unintended bifurcation of comics readership.) Furthermore, he wonders what a volume guest edited by someone enmeshed in mainstream comics – and not just superhero comics – might look like…if that is indeed a direction that Houghton Mifflin Harcourt would sanction. Andy reminds Derek how inclusive this year’s volume is, and that depending on your definition of “mainstream,” McCloud’s includes several comics you could certainly define as “popular.” But despite these dialectics, both guys agree that this is one of the strongest collections in the series’ run and that the way that McCloud has organized his presentation is compelling. In this year’s volume you have selections from the grand figures of contemporary comics (e.g., R. Crumb, the Hernandez brothers, Charles Burns, Ben Katchor, and Adrian Tomine), all-age and young-adult comics, excerpts from memoir and autobiographical comics, historical works, experimenters of narrative form, abstract and avant-garde comics, and almost as a centerpiece, a selection from what McCloud christens “the book of the year,” Chris Ware’s Building Stories. Webcomics are given their fair share of attention in this volume, and the guys understand McCloud’s decision to highlight and list URLs instead of attempting to reproduce comics from another platform (although they’re not as excited by the one webcomic that does find its way into the collection, an excerpt from Allie Brosh’s “Depression Part Two”). All in all, the guys have a great time discussing the many selections in The Best American Comics 2014, and in doing so, they get all revved up for their own “best of” exercise which they will present in next week’s podcast episode.

]]> 5182 no Interviews - Bill Kartalopoulos http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews32-Kartalopoulos.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, and in anticipation of their review show later this week, Andy and Derek are pleased to talk with the new editor of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Best American Comics series, Bill Kartalopoulos. They congratulate him on the publication of the first volume under his stewardship, guest edited by Scott McCloud, and then ask him a variety of behind-the-scenes questions. For example, Bill discusses the laborious process that goes into screening and choosing which comics to pass onto the guest editor, the challenges he and McCloud faced in compiling their selections, the unexpected finds and discoveries he makes when interacting with the comics community, the logistics of incorporating comics that appear in unconventional -- including non-print -- formats, and his attempts at balancing a "best of" volume that represents the contemporary comics scene. The guys also ask him about the process behind choosing each year's guest editor, how this volume is different from those under his immediate predecessors (Jessica Abel and Matt Madden), and if he thinks this year's selections adequately do justice to the comics-publishing mainstream. The conversation is engaging, and Bill gives Derek and Andy much to think about, and a variety of talking points, as they prepare for their own discussion of The Best American Comics 2014 later in the week. And who knows...perhaps talking with the BAC series editor will be a yearly event for the Two Guys. Mon, 22 Dec 2014 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Setting Up the Best On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, and in anticipation of their review show later this week, Andy and Derek are pleased to talk with the new editor of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Best American Comics series, Bill Kartalopoulos. They congratulate him on the publication of the first volume under his stewardship, guest edited by Scott McCloud, and then ask him a variety of behind-the-scenes questions. For example, Bill discusses the laborious process that goes into screening and choosing which comics to pass onto the guest editor, the challenges he and McCloud faced in compiling their selections, the unexpected finds and discoveries he makes when interacting with the comics community, the logistics of incorporating comics that appear in unconventional -- including non-print -- formats, and his attempts at balancing a "best of" volume that represents the contemporary comics scene. The guys also ask him about the process behind choosing each year's guest editor, how this volume is different from those under his immediate predecessors (Jessica Abel and Matt Madden), and if he thinks this year's selections adequately do justice to the comics-publishing mainstream. The conversation is engaging, and Bill gives Derek and Andy much to think about, and a variety of talking points, as they prepare for their own discussion of The Best American Comics 2014 later in the week. And who knows...perhaps talking with the BAC series editor will be a yearly event for the Two Guys. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, and in anticipation of their review show later this week, Andy and Derek are pleased to talk with the new editor of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Best American Comics series, Bill Kartalopoulos. They congratulate him on the publication of the first volume under his stewardship, guest edited by Scott McCloud, and then ask him a variety of behind-the-scenes questions. For example, Bill discusses the laborious process that goes into screening and choosing which comics to pass onto the guest editor, the challenges he and McCloud faced in compiling their selections, the unexpected finds and discoveries he makes when interacting with the comics community, the logistics of incorporating comics that appear in unconventional -- including non-print -- formats, and his attempts at balancing a "best of" volume that represents the contemporary comics scene. The guys also ask him about the process behind choosing each year's guest editor, how this volume is different from those under his immediate predecessors (Jessica Abel and Matt Madden), and if he thinks this year's selections adequately do justice to the comics-publishing mainstream. The conversation is engaging, and Bill gives Derek and Andy much to think about, and a variety of talking points, as they prepare for their own discussion of The Best American Comics 2014 later in the week. And who knows...perhaps talking with the BAC series editor will be a yearly event for the Two Guys.

]]> 5649 no On Location - Our December Visit to Collected Comics in Plano http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation7.mp3 It's almost the end of the year, and Derek is back for one last 2014 visit to his local comic shop, Collected, in Plano, TX. As he usually does every month, he talks with the shop's employees and customers about the kind of comics that they're reading, what is catching their interests, and what comics news most excites them, but this month the focus is on their favorite titles of 2014. Derek asks everyone sitting around the podcast table -- Shea, Krystle, Shaun, Craig, Nick, and Matthew -- about what they consider to be the most outstanding comics of the past twelve months. And the candidates vary widely, ranging from single-issue comic books to original graphic novels, from superhero to manga, from pop-culture adaptations to literary graphic fiction, and from webcomics to those coming from Kickstarter campaigns. Some of the titles that folks highlight during the show include Tooth and Claw, Seconds, The Wrenchies, Nijigahara Holograph, Multiversity: Pax Americana, Rat Queens, Edge of Spider-Verse, Bleeding Heart, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, The Shadow Hero, Eye of Newt, Michael Moorcock's Elric, Vol. 1: The Ruby Throne, Through the Woods, and Squidder. They also discuss some of their biggest comics disappointments of the year, speculate on the titles they're looking forward to in 2015, and even learn that Krystle prefers drugs, candy, and weiners in her comics. As usual, you don't know what to expect from the guys at Collected, but you are guaranteed fun talk about a variety of great books. And much thanks to Freddy Ruiz, the store's manager, for pulling everyone together! Fri, 19 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Looking Back at Favorites It's almost the end of the year, and Derek is back for one last 2014 visit to his local comic shop, Collected, in Plano, TX. As he usually does every month, he talks with the shop's employees and customers about the kind of comics that they're reading, what is catching their interests, and what comics news most excites them, but this month the focus is on their favorite titles of 2014. Derek asks everyone sitting around the podcast table -- Shea, Krystle, Shaun, Craig, Nick, and Matthew -- about what they consider to be the most outstanding comics of the past twelve months. And the candidates vary widely, ranging from single-issue comic books to original graphic novels, from superhero to manga, from pop-culture adaptations to literary graphic fiction, and from webcomics to those coming from Kickstarter campaigns. Some of the titles that folks highlight during the show include Tooth and Claw, Seconds, The Wrenchies, Nijigahara Holograph, Multiversity: Pax Americana, Rat Queens, Edge of Spider-Verse, Bleeding Heart, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, The Shadow Hero, Eye of Newt, Michael Moorcock's Elric, Vol. 1: The Ruby Throne, Through the Woods, and Squidder. They also discuss some of their biggest comics disappointments of the year, speculate on the titles they're looking forward to in 2015, and even learn that Krystle prefers drugs, candy, and weiners in her comics. As usual, you don't know what to expect from the guys at Collected, but you are guaranteed fun talk about a variety of great books. And much thanks to Freddy Ruiz, the store's manager, for pulling everyone together! It's almost the end of the year, and Derek is back for one last 2014 visit to his local comic shop, Collected, in Plano, TX. As he usually does every month, he talks with the shop's employees and customers about the kind of comics that they're reading, what is catching their interests, and what comics news most excites them, but this month the focus is on their favorite titles of 2014. Derek asks everyone sitting around the podcast table -- Shea, Krystle, Shaun, Craig, Nick, and Matthew -- about what they consider to be the most outstanding comics of the past twelve months. And the candidates vary widely, ranging from single-issue comic books to original graphic novels, from superhero to manga, from pop-culture adaptations to literary graphic fiction, and from webcomics to those coming from Kickstarter campaigns. Some of the titles that folks highlight during the show include Tooth and Claw, Seconds, The Wrenchies, Nijigahara Holograph, Multiversity: Pax Americana, Rat Queens, Edge of Spider-Verse, Bleeding Heart, Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland, The Shadow Hero, Eye of Newt, Michael Moorcock's Elric, Vol. 1: The Ruby Throne, Through the Woods, and Squidder. They also discuss some of their biggest comics disappointments of the year, speculate on the titles they're looking forward to in 2015, and even learn that Krystle prefers drugs, candy, and weiners in her comics. As usual, you don't know what to expect from the guys at Collected, but you are guaranteed fun talk about a variety of great books. And much thanks to Freddy Ruiz, the store's manager, for pulling everyone together!

]]> 4579 no Episode 114 - Reviews of Here, Wolf Moon #1, and Bitch Planet #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-114.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy review three new and exciting titles. First, they look at Richard McGuire's Here (Pantheon) a project that actually goes back to 1989. A different, black-and-white 6-page version of the comic appeared in the first issue of Raw Vol. 2,  Art Spiegelman and Françoise Mouly's groundbreaking comics anthology that ran from 1980 until 1991. The new book doesn't include or build directly off of that original comic, but it does use the design and concept as a springboard into the larger, more ambitious project. Everything that takes place in this story -- and the guys use the word of "story" loosely, here -- is anchored in one physical space, the corner of a room. What McGuire does is to give us a history of that particular space, revealing events that took place in that area over a span of centuries. The "movement" within the narrative is strictly temporal, reaching back into the prehistoric past (the earliest year being 3,000, 500, 000 BCE) and pushing into a speculative future (the year 22,175). McGuire accomplishes this through an arrangement of two-page spreads, inlaid or nested panels, and precise placements of images that, taken together, provide visual and even thematic coherence. Indeed, it seems as if events across time resonate and interact. This is the kind of book that is difficult to appreciate fully outside of the actual reading process, and it's one that requires diligent and repeated efforts, each of which will be richly rewarded. After their involved discussion of Here -- and the Two Guys spend the better part of this episode on McGuire's work -- Andy and Derek look at two new #1 issues. The first is Wolf Moon, written by Cullen Bunn and with art by Jeremy Haun (Vertigo). This is the first of a 6-issue miniseries based on the werewolf myth. However, Bunn gives his supernatural retelling a unique spin, creating a lycanthrope narrative where physical transformation isn't the only effects of a full moon. Haun's art is appropriately dark, ill-defined in places, and violent. There's a lot of blood in this first issue, and Wolf Moon promises to be a title that isn't for the squeamish. After that, the guys turn to the new comic from Kelly Sue DeConnick and Valentine de Landro, Bitch Planet (Image). Both Derek and Andy like this first issue and plan on continuing to read the series, but they nonetheless disagree as to the impact or accomplishments of this inaugural installment. Andy feels that this is a successful #1 that does everything it's supposed to do. In fact, this may be one of his favorite single issues of the year. However, Derek feels that this is a story that will read better in trade, in that the first issue seemed incomplete and required more story space for effective immersion. There needs to be more there there. What's more, he felt that Danielle Henderson's mini-essay at the end of the issue was unnecessary and potentially undermined the impact of the story itself. While Andy felt that this was a useful supplement that helped to set a critical or thematic framework -- and it does -- Derek sees the essay as an expository exercise that tells (not shows) the reader what the series is all about. Instead, he feels that DeConnick and de Landro's story should speak for itself, especially in this first issue. (Although Henderson's essay would make a nice supplement to a future collected edition.) Still, both guys agree that this is an intriguing title that both will continue reading...if  not monthly, then in trade. Wed, 17 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Here and There On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy review three new and exciting titles. First, they look at Richard McGuire's Here (Pantheon) a project that actually goes back to 1989. A different, black-and-white 6-page version of the comic appeared in the first issue of Raw Vol. 2,  Art Spiegelman and Françoise Mouly's groundbreaking comics anthology that ran from 1980 until 1991. The new book doesn't include or build directly off of that original comic, but it does use the design and concept as a springboard into the larger, more ambitious project. Everything that takes place in this story -- and the guys use the word of "story" loosely, here -- is anchored in one physical space, the corner of a room. What McGuire does is to give us a history of that particular space, revealing events that took place in that area over a span of centuries. The "movement" within the narrative is strictly temporal, reaching back into the prehistoric past (the earliest year being 3,000, 500, 000 BCE) and pushing into a speculative future (the year 22,175). McGuire accomplishes this through an arrangement of two-page spreads, inlaid or nested panels, and precise placements of images that, taken together, provide visual and even thematic coherence. Indeed, it seems as if events across time resonate and interact. This is the kind of book that is difficult to appreciate fully outside of the actual reading process, and it's one that requires diligent and repeated efforts, each of which will be richly rewarded. After their involved discussion of Here -- and the Two Guys spend the better part of this episode on McGuire's work -- Andy and Derek look at two new #1 issues. The first is Wolf Moon, written by Cullen Bunn and with art by Jeremy Haun (Vertigo). This is the first of a 6-issue miniseries based on the werewolf myth. However, Bunn gives his supernatural retelling a unique spin, creating a lycanthrope narrative where physical transformation isn't the only effects of a full moon. Haun's art is appropriately dark, ill-defined in places, and violent. There's a lot of blood in this first issue, and Wolf Moon promises to be a title that isn't for the squeamish. After that, the guys turn to the new comic from Kelly Sue DeConnick and Valentine de Landro, Bitch Planet (Image). Both Derek and Andy like this first issue and plan on continuing to read the series, but they nonetheless disagree as to the impact or accomplishments of this inaugural installment. Andy feels that this is a successful #1 that does everything it's supposed to do. In fact, this may be one of his favorite single issues of the year. However, Derek feels that this is a story that will read better in trade, in that the first issue seemed incomplete and required more story space for effective immersion. There needs to be more there there. What's more, he felt that Danielle Henderson's mini-essay at the end of the issue was unnecessary and potentially undermined the impact of the story itself. While Andy felt that this was a useful supplement that helped to set a critical or thematic framework -- and it does -- Derek sees the essay as an expository exercise that tells (not shows) the reader what the series is all about. Instead, he feels that DeConnick and de Landro's story should speak for itself, especially in this first issue. (Although Henderson's essay would make a nice supplement to a future collected edition.) Still, both guys agree that this is an intriguing title that both will continue reading...if  not monthly, then in trade. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy review three new and exciting titles. First, they look at Richard McGuire's Here (Pantheon) a project that actually goes back to 1989. A different, black-and-white 6-page version of the comic appeared in the first issue of Raw Vol. 2,  Art Spiegelman and Françoise Mouly's groundbreaking comics anthology that ran from 1980 until 1991. The new book doesn't include or build directly off of that original comic, but it does use the design and concept as a springboard into the larger, more ambitious project. Everything that takes place in this story -- and the guys use the word of "story" loosely, here -- is anchored in one physical space, the corner of a room. What McGuire does is to give us a history of that particular space, revealing events that took place in that area over a span of centuries. The "movement" within the narrative is strictly temporal, reaching back into the prehistoric past (the earliest year being 3,000, 500, 000 BCE) and pushing into a speculative future (the year 22,175). McGuire accomplishes this through an arrangement of two-page spreads, inlaid or nested panels, and precise placements of images that, taken together, provide visual and even thematic coherence. Indeed, it seems as if events across time resonate and interact. This is the kind of book that is difficult to appreciate fully outside of the actual reading process, and it's one that requires diligent and repeated efforts, each of which will be richly rewarded. After their involved discussion of Here -- and the Two Guys spend the better part of this episode on McGuire's work -- Andy and Derek look at two new #1 issues. The first is Wolf Moon, written by Cullen Bunn and with art by Jeremy Haun (Vertigo). This is the first of a 6-issue miniseries based on the werewolf myth. However, Bunn gives his supernatural retelling a unique spin, creating a lycanthrope narrative where physical transformation isn't the only effects of a full moon. Haun's art is appropriately dark, ill-defined in places, and violent. There's a lot of blood in this first issue, and Wolf Moon promises to be a title that isn't for the squeamish. After that, the guys turn to the new comic from Kelly Sue DeConnick and Valentine de Landro, Bitch Planet (Image). Both Derek and Andy like this first issue and plan on continuing to read the series, but they nonetheless disagree as to the impact or accomplishments of this inaugural installment. Andy feels that this is a successful #1 that does everything it's supposed to do. In fact, this may be one of his favorite single issues of the year. However, Derek feels that this is a story that will read better in trade, in that the first issue seemed incomplete and required more story space for effective immersion. There needs to be more there there. What's more, he felt that Danielle Henderson's mini-essay at the end of the issue was unnecessary and potentially undermined the impact of the story itself. While Andy felt that this was a useful supplement that helped to set a critical or thematic framework -- and it does -- Derek sees the essay as an expository exercise that tells (not shows) the reader what the series is all about. Instead, he feels that DeConnick and de Landro's story should speak for itself, especially in this first issue. (Although Henderson's essay would make a nice supplement to a future collected edition.) Still, both guys agree that this is an intriguing title that both will continue reading...if  not monthly, then in trade.

]]> 5515 no Interviews - Dakota McFadzean http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews31-McFadzean.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek talks with Dakota McFadzean about the release of the latest issue of Irene -- co-edited with Andy Warner and DW -- as well as his own comics output. They begin by focusing on the eclectic comics and art anthology, now in its fifth issue, the genesis of the publication, and how co-editing Irene has helped define his career after having graduated from The Center for Cartoon Studies. Derek asks Dakota about the challenges of overseeing a graphic compilation and how his own work has seen similar inclusion in such anthologies as The Hic Hoc Illustrated Journal of Humor, Lies Grown-Ups Told Me, and the prestigious Best American Comics 2012. But the heart of the conversation is devoted to Dakota's own prolific output, especially his daily online strip, The Dailies, and last year's impressive collection, Other Stories and the Horse You Rode in On (Conundrum Press). Derek asks Dakota about the fantastical and even surreal quality of his stories, his penchant for childhood narratives, and the iconic prevalence of faces and masks in many of his comics (of which Dakota isn't immediately aware). Stories such as "Standing Water," "Ghost Rabbit," and "Unkindness" -- all collected in Other Stories -- are excellent introductions to Dakota's unique style, as is the more realistic narrative Hollow in the Hollows (One Percent Press) that came out earlier this year. Indeed, the latter is one of Dakota's most developed stories, and the two discuss the demands of writing more sustained and longer-form narratives as well as the artist's plans for this kind of storytelling. Dakota also talks about his upcoming book from Conundrum, Don't Get Eaten by Anything, a collection of the strips that make up The Dailies. This s definitely an artist to keep track of, and if you're not familiar with Dakota McFadzean's work, you should definitely check out The Dailies as well as has book through Conundrum Press. Mon, 15 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Smiling Faces Sometimes On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek talks with Dakota McFadzean about the release of the latest issue of Irene -- co-edited with Andy Warner and DW -- as well as his own comics output. They begin by focusing on the eclectic comics and art anthology, now in its fifth issue, the genesis of the publication, and how co-editing Irene has helped define his career after having graduated from The Center for Cartoon Studies. Derek asks Dakota about the challenges of overseeing a graphic compilation and how his own work has seen similar inclusion in such anthologies as The Hic Hoc Illustrated Journal of Humor, Lies Grown-Ups Told Me, and the prestigious Best American Comics 2012. But the heart of the conversation is devoted to Dakota's own prolific output, especially his daily online strip, The Dailies, and last year's impressive collection, Other Stories and the Horse You Rode in On (Conundrum Press). Derek asks Dakota about the fantastical and even surreal quality of his stories, his penchant for childhood narratives, and the iconic prevalence of faces and masks in many of his comics (of which Dakota isn't immediately aware). Stories such as "Standing Water," "Ghost Rabbit," and "Unkindness" -- all collected in Other Stories -- are excellent introductions to Dakota's unique style, as is the more realistic narrative Hollow in the Hollows (One Percent Press) that came out earlier this year. Indeed, the latter is one of Dakota's most developed stories, and the two discuss the demands of writing more sustained and longer-form narratives as well as the artist's plans for this kind of storytelling. Dakota also talks about his upcoming book from Conundrum, Don't Get Eaten by Anything, a collection of the strips that make up The Dailies. This s definitely an artist to keep track of, and if you're not familiar with Dakota McFadzean's work, you should definitely check out The Dailies as well as has book through Conundrum Press. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek talks with Dakota McFadzean about the release of the latest issue of Irene -- co-edited with Andy Warner and DW -- as well as his own comics output. They begin by focusing on the eclectic comics and art anthology, now in its fifth issue, the genesis of the publication, and how co-editing Irene has helped define his career after having graduated from The Center for Cartoon Studies. Derek asks Dakota about the challenges of overseeing a graphic compilation and how his own work has seen similar inclusion in such anthologies as The Hic Hoc Illustrated Journal of Humor, Lies Grown-Ups Told Me, and the prestigious Best American Comics 2012. But the heart of the conversation is devoted to Dakota's own prolific output, especially his daily online strip, The Dailies, and last year's impressive collection, Other Stories and the Horse You Rode in On (Conundrum Press). Derek asks Dakota about the fantastical and even surreal quality of his stories, his penchant for childhood narratives, and the iconic prevalence of faces and masks in many of his comics (of which Dakota isn't immediately aware). Stories such as "Standing Water," "Ghost Rabbit," and "Unkindness" -- all collected in Other Stories -- are excellent introductions to Dakota's unique style, as is the more realistic narrative Hollow in the Hollows (One Percent Press) that came out earlier this year. Indeed, the latter is one of Dakota's most developed stories, and the two discuss the demands of writing more sustained and longer-form narratives as well as the artist's plans for this kind of storytelling. Dakota also talks about his upcoming book from Conundrum, Don't Get Eaten by Anything, a collection of the strips that make up The Dailies. This s definitely an artist to keep track of, and if you're not familiar with Dakota McFadzean's work, you should definitely check out The Dailies as well as has book through Conundrum Press.

]]> 5100 no Episode 113 - Reviews of The Wake, True Stories, Vol. 1, and ODY-C#1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-113.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) are back for another review episode, and this one is jam-packed with nougaty comics goodness. They begin with Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s  deluxe edition of The Wake (DC/Vertigo). They had discussed the first couple installments of the ten-issue series on last year’s publisher spotlight on recent Vertigo titles, but now they are able to plunge into the the complete story…and they do so with relish. Both Andy and Derek love the way the narrative unfolds — it’s the kind of work they have come to expect from both Snyder and Murphy — although they do have their quibbles, e.g., unexpected/unlikely surprises in character development and occasional ambiguous transitions. But overall, the guys feel this is an outstanding story, an example of what Vertigo does best. Next, they turn to Derf Backderf’s True Stories, Vol. 1 (Alternative Comics), the first of four — or is it five? — collections of the “True Stories” pieces culled from Backderf’s comic strip, The City, between 1990 and 2014. While there are a few vignettes in this title that verge on belittlement, the collection as a whole is a discerning, satirical, and hilarious look at the state of our contemporary culture. Finally, Derek and Andy look at one of the new #1s coming out of Image Comics this month, Matt Fraction and Christian Ward’s ODY-C. This is an inverted retelling of Homer’s Odyssey, where genders are switched and the high seas become the far reaches of space. This is a dense, immersive narrative that requires multiple readings. Knowledge of The Odyssey isn’t necessary, but it wouldn’t hurt for readers to have their copies of Edith Hamilton’s Mythology (or perhaps have Wikipedia) readily at hand when turning through Fraction’s narrative. And Ward’s art is what makes this first issue truly stand out, visually stunning and almost surreal, a nice pairing with one of the guys’ favorite comics storytellers. All in all, this was a fun week of reading! Wed, 10 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Is Double Ending Dirty? This week the Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) are back for another review episode, and this one is jam-packed with nougaty comics goodness. They begin with Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s  deluxe edition of The Wake (DC/Vertigo). They had discussed the first couple installments of the ten-issue series on last year’s publisher spotlight on recent Vertigo titles, but now they are able to plunge into the the complete story…and they do so with relish. Both Andy and Derek love the way the narrative unfolds — it’s the kind of work they have come to expect from both Snyder and Murphy — although they do have their quibbles, e.g., unexpected/unlikely surprises in character development and occasional ambiguous transitions. But overall, the guys feel this is an outstanding story, an example of what Vertigo does best. Next, they turn to Derf Backderf’s True Stories, Vol. 1 (Alternative Comics), the first of four — or is it five? — collections of the “True Stories” pieces culled from Backderf’s comic strip, The City, between 1990 and 2014. While there are a few vignettes in this title that verge on belittlement, the collection as a whole is a discerning, satirical, and hilarious look at the state of our contemporary culture. Finally, Derek and Andy look at one of the new #1s coming out of Image Comics this month, Matt Fraction and Christian Ward’s ODY-C. This is an inverted retelling of Homer’s Odyssey, where genders are switched and the high seas become the far reaches of space. This is a dense, immersive narrative that requires multiple readings. Knowledge of The Odyssey isn’t necessary, but it wouldn’t hurt for readers to have their copies of Edith Hamilton’s Mythology (or perhaps have Wikipedia) readily at hand when turning through Fraction’s narrative. And Ward’s art is what makes this first issue truly stand out, visually stunning and almost surreal, a nice pairing with one of the guys’ favorite comics storytellers. All in all, this was a fun week of reading! This week the Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) are back for another review episode, and this one is jam-packed with nougaty comics goodness. They begin with Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s  deluxe edition of The Wake (DC/Vertigo). They had discussed the first couple installments of the ten-issue series on last year’s publisher spotlight on recent Vertigo titles, but now they are able to plunge into the the complete story…and they do so with relish. Both Andy and Derek love the way the narrative unfolds — it’s the kind of work they have come to expect from both Snyder and Murphy — although they do have their quibbles, e.g., unexpected/unlikely surprises in character development and occasional ambiguous transitions. But overall, the guys feel this is an outstanding story, an example of what Vertigo does best. Next, they turn to Derf Backderf’s True Stories, Vol. 1 (Alternative Comics), the first of four — or is it five? — collections of the “True Stories” pieces culled from Backderf’s comic strip, The City, between 1990 and 2014. While there are a few vignettes in this title that verge on belittlement, the collection as a whole is a discerning, satirical, and hilarious look at the state of our contemporary culture. Finally, Derek and Andy look at one of the new #1s coming out of Image Comics this month, Matt Fraction and Christian Ward’s ODY-C. This is an inverted retelling of Homer’s Odyssey, where genders are switched and the high seas become the far reaches of space. This is a dense, immersive narrative that requires multiple readings. Knowledge of The Odyssey isn’t necessary, but it wouldn’t hurt for readers to have their copies of Edith Hamilton’s Mythology (or perhaps have Wikipedia) readily at hand when turning through Fraction’s narrative. And Ward’s art is what makes this first issue truly stand out, visually stunning and almost surreal, a nice pairing with one of the guys’ favorite comics storytellers. All in all, this was a fun week of reading!

]]> 5423 no Interviews - Salgood Sam http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews30-Sam.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the guys are happy to have on the show Max Douglas, AKA Salgood Sam, to talk about his latest book, Dream Life: A Late Coming of Age (Spilt Ink), as well as other works from his career.  They begin by asking about the origin of his pseudonym, learning that it has everything to do with the uneven expectations of the comics community. Here, Salgood Sam shares some of his experiences in the industry, his work for the Big Two, and his decision to work primarily as an independent creator and outside of the mainstream. This includes the founding of Spilt Ink, a small press dedicated to publishing comics, websites, and other forms of media. But the meat of the conversation centers on Dream Life, a project that has been several years in the making and continues to occupy the artist. This is the first book in what is projected to be a two-volume series, a diverse and cinematic narrative of intertwining stories exploring identity and relationships in an uncertain world. Derek and Andy ask Salgood Sam about the book’s origins as a webcomic, its evolution into a Kickstarter campaign, and then its ultimate release as a book earlier this year. Much of the discussion is devoted to the artist’s style, his philosophy of storytelling, and his adept handing of an ensemble cast. Along the way they discuss other projects from Salgood Sam, past and present, including Dracula: Son of the Dragon, Therefore Repent!, Sea of Red, and his independent anthology Revolver. It’s an engaging conversation, and one that has the Two Guys eagerly awaiting the final volume of Dream Life. Fri, 05 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Salgood in Pedanticland On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the guys are happy to have on the show Max Douglas, AKA Salgood Sam, to talk about his latest book, Dream Life: A Late Coming of Age (Spilt Ink), as well as other works from his career.  They begin by asking about the origin of his pseudonym, learning that it has everything to do with the uneven expectations of the comics community. Here, Salgood Sam shares some of his experiences in the industry, his work for the Big Two, and his decision to work primarily as an independent creator and outside of the mainstream. This includes the founding of Spilt Ink, a small press dedicated to publishing comics, websites, and other forms of media. But the meat of the conversation centers on Dream Life, a project that has been several years in the making and continues to occupy the artist. This is the first book in what is projected to be a two-volume series, a diverse and cinematic narrative of intertwining stories exploring identity and relationships in an uncertain world. Derek and Andy ask Salgood Sam about the book’s origins as a webcomic, its evolution into a Kickstarter campaign, and then its ultimate release as a book earlier this year. Much of the discussion is devoted to the artist’s style, his philosophy of storytelling, and his adept handing of an ensemble cast. Along the way they discuss other projects from Salgood Sam, past and present, including Dracula: Son of the Dragon, Therefore Repent!, Sea of Red, and his independent anthology Revolver. It’s an engaging conversation, and one that has the Two Guys eagerly awaiting the final volume of Dream Life. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the guys are happy to have on the show Max Douglas, AKA Salgood Sam, to talk about his latest book, Dream Life: A Late Coming of Age (Spilt Ink), as well as other works from his career.  They begin by asking about the origin of his pseudonym, learning that it has everything to do with the uneven expectations of the comics community. Here, Salgood Sam shares some of his experiences in the industry, his work for the Big Two, and his decision to work primarily as an independent creator and outside of the mainstream. This includes the founding of Spilt Ink, a small press dedicated to publishing comics, websites, and other forms of media. But the meat of the conversation centers on Dream Life, a project that has been several years in the making and continues to occupy the artist. This is the first book in what is projected to be a two-volume series, a diverse and cinematic narrative of intertwining stories exploring identity and relationships in an uncertain world. Derek and Andy ask Salgood Sam about the book’s origins as a webcomic, its evolution into a Kickstarter campaign, and then its ultimate release as a book earlier this year. Much of the discussion is devoted to the artist’s style, his philosophy of storytelling, and his adept handing of an ensemble cast. Along the way they discuss other projects from Salgood Sam, past and present, including Dracula: Son of the Dragon, Therefore Repent!, Sea of Red, and his independent anthology Revolver. It’s an engaging conversation, and one that has the Two Guys eagerly awaiting the final volume of Dream Life.

]]> 4748 no Episode 112 - The December Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-112.mp3 It's the beginning of the month, so the Two Guys with PhDs are back for look through the latest Previews catalog. This December, there's a lot to choose from and discuss. After a brief digression into Thanksgiving activities and the 1968 Otto Preminger film, Skidoo (thanks Andy), the guys jump into this month's solicits. They highlight an insane number of upcoming titles, including Rat God #1, Girlfiend, Mister X: Razed #1, and The Complete Pistolwhip (Dark Horse Comics); Suiciders #1 and The Filth Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); Locke and Key: Master Edition Vol. 1, The Untold History of Black Comic Books, and Star Slammers (IDW Publishing); Nameless #1, Sparks Nevada #1,  Postal #1, and Trees, Vol. 1 (Image Comics); Black Hood #1 (Dark Circle/Archie Comics); The Cluster #1 and Curb Stomp #1 (BOOM! Studios); Intelligent Sentient? (Drawn and Quarterly); 566 Frames (Fanfare/Borderline); Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 7, Sweatshop, Saint Cole, and Displacement (Fantagraphics); Sculptor and Princess Decomposia and Count Spatula (First Second); Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream (Locust Moon Press); Girl in Dior (NBM); and Meanwhile #1 (Soaring Press). This is a packed issue of Previews, and while they still continue to digest their holiday meals, Derek and Andy have a great time discussing the many new titles coming out over the next months. Wed, 03 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Thank You, Carol Channing It's the beginning of the month, so the Two Guys with PhDs are back for look through the latest Previews catalog. This December, there's a lot to choose from and discuss. After a brief digression into Thanksgiving activities and the 1968 Otto Preminger film, Skidoo (thanks Andy), the guys jump into this month's solicits. They highlight an insane number of upcoming titles, including Rat God #1, Girlfiend, Mister X: Razed #1, and The Complete Pistolwhip (Dark Horse Comics); Suiciders #1 and The Filth Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); Locke and Key: Master Edition Vol. 1, The Untold History of Black Comic Books, and Star Slammers (IDW Publishing); Nameless #1, Sparks Nevada #1,  Postal #1, and Trees, Vol. 1 (Image Comics); Black Hood #1 (Dark Circle/Archie Comics); The Cluster #1 and Curb Stomp #1 (BOOM! Studios); Intelligent Sentient? (Drawn and Quarterly); 566 Frames (Fanfare/Borderline); Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 7, Sweatshop, Saint Cole, and Displacement (Fantagraphics); Sculptor and Princess Decomposia and Count Spatula (First Second); Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream (Locust Moon Press); Girl in Dior (NBM); and Meanwhile #1 (Soaring Press). This is a packed issue of Previews, and while they still continue to digest their holiday meals, Derek and Andy have a great time discussing the many new titles coming out over the next months. It's the beginning of the month, so the Two Guys with PhDs are back for look through the latest Previews catalog. This December, there's a lot to choose from and discuss. After a brief digression into Thanksgiving activities and the 1968 Otto Preminger film, Skidoo (thanks Andy), the guys jump into this month's solicits. They highlight an insane number of upcoming titles, including Rat God #1, Girlfiend, Mister X: Razed #1, and The Complete Pistolwhip (Dark Horse Comics); Suiciders #1 and The Filth Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); Locke and Key: Master Edition Vol. 1, The Untold History of Black Comic Books, and Star Slammers (IDW Publishing); Nameless #1, Sparks Nevada #1,  Postal #1, and Trees, Vol. 1 (Image Comics); Black Hood #1 (Dark Circle/Archie Comics); The Cluster #1 and Curb Stomp #1 (BOOM! Studios); Intelligent Sentient? (Drawn and Quarterly); 566 Frames (Fanfare/Borderline); Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 7, Sweatshop, Saint Cole, and Displacement (Fantagraphics); Sculptor and Princess Decomposia and Count Spatula (First Second); Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream (Locust Moon Press); Girl in Dior (NBM); and Meanwhile #1 (Soaring Press). This is a packed issue of Previews, and while they still continue to digest their holiday meals, Derek and Andy have a great time discussing the many new titles coming out over the next months.

]]> 6027 no Webcomics - Reviews of Demon, The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood, and Margot’s Room http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Webcomics1.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are excited to begin a new monthly feature for The Comics Alternative, a show devoted specifically to webcomics. For this inaugural episode, and as they plan on doing for every episode of this new feature, Derek and Andy W. take a look at two current ongoing titles and one older and completed title. The ones they discuss today are Jason Shiga’s Demon; Christina Blanch, Chris Carr, and Chee’s The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood; and Emily Carroll’s Margot’s Room. First, however, the guys begin by defining “webcomics” and distinguishing them from other types of comics or works produced through other means. In doing so, they not only establish their mission statement for this new feature, but they also delineate the parameters of their discussions. They begin by differentiating between webcomics and digital comics, arguing that while the former is based on and consumed through a digital delivery system, not all digital comics are specific to the Web. Along with this they point out the differences between the Internet and the World Wide Web, a distinction that many may have forgotten, describing the Web as just one component of the larger ‘Net. There are many digital comics that are accessed through the Internet — such as those that are downloaded directly to apps intended specifically for portable devices — that may have nothing or little to do with the Web. Webcomics, the guys bluntly state, are those that can be read through Web browsers, imbedded in and largely composing webpages, and may or may not be accessible through other digital means. Another criteria of a webcomic, at least for Andy and Derek, is that the primary or original intention behind the comic’s creation is Web-based, not print. This would rule out many of the digital-first comics put out by the Big Two and other publishers, and it would exclude the digital versions of comic books that are already or are soon to be in print. (And, of course, it excludes the scanning and exchanging of material via torrent sites.) They also consider the potential complications of animation and economics. How many non-static images should a webcomic have before it’s not considered a “comic,” and what kind of payment system may (or may not) affect the defining of a webcomic? At the same time, the guys are aware that their definitions of a webcomic may be fluid — for example, how would you place the works available through Monkey Brain Comics, a digital-only publisher many of whose titles usually end up in (and perhaps ultimately are intended as) print? — and that their understanding of the form may change over time. But Derek and Andy are comfortable with that potential fluidity and feel that the discussion of what defines a webcomic is half of the fun. Then the plunge into a full-fledged discussion of three webcomics. Each is a different manifestation of a webcomic and delivers its narrative in specific ways. While some of the comics, such as Demon and The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood, have begun to find their way into print, they are nonetheless first and foremost a comic intended for the Web. There are some, such as Charlie Wormwood and others found on the Thrillbent website, that utilize additive images or visual layovers that appear as individual “pages” as you click through the comic, and others that rely solely on static, unchanging, and individual formatting. And while some webcomics, such as Jason Shiga’s work, are formatted to look like physical comics pages, others, such as the work by Emily Carroll, are great examples of what Scott McCloud has described as the “infinite canvas.” All in all, this is a productive maiden voyage for the guys’ new feature, and they look forward to discussing other examples of webcomics in the months to come. Mon, 01 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Brand New Feature, Same Great Analysis The Two Guys with PhDs are excited to begin a new monthly feature for The Comics Alternative, a show devoted specifically to webcomics. For this inaugural episode, and as they plan on doing for every episode of this new feature, Derek and Andy W. take a look at two current ongoing titles and one older and completed title. The ones they discuss today are Jason Shiga’s Demon; Christina Blanch, Chris Carr, and Chee’s The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood; and Emily Carroll’s Margot’s Room. First, however, the guys begin by defining “webcomics” and distinguishing them from other types of comics or works produced through other means. In doing so, they not only establish their mission statement for this new feature, but they also delineate the parameters of their discussions. They begin by differentiating between webcomics and digital comics, arguing that while the former is based on and consumed through a digital delivery system, not all digital comics are specific to the Web. Along with this they point out the differences between the Internet and the World Wide Web, a distinction that many may have forgotten, describing the Web as just one component of the larger ‘Net. There are many digital comics that are accessed through the Internet — such as those that are downloaded directly to apps intended specifically for portable devices — that may have nothing or little to do with the Web. Webcomics, the guys bluntly state, are those that can be read through Web browsers, imbedded in and largely composing webpages, and may or may not be accessible through other digital means. Another criteria of a webcomic, at least for Andy and Derek, is that the primary or original intention behind the comic’s creation is Web-based, not print. This would rule out many of the digital-first comics put out by the Big Two and other publishers, and it would exclude the digital versions of comic books that are already or are soon to be in print. (And, of course, it excludes the scanning and exchanging of material via torrent sites.) They also consider the potential complications of animation and economics. How many non-static images should a webcomic have before it’s not considered a “comic,” and what kind of payment system may (or may not) affect the defining of a webcomic? At the same time, the guys are aware that their definitions of a webcomic may be fluid — for example, how would you place the works available through Monkey Brain Comics, a digital-only publisher many of whose titles usually end up in (and perhaps ultimately are intended as) print? — and that their understanding of the form may change over time. But Derek and Andy are comfortable with that potential fluidity and feel that the discussion of what defines a webcomic is half of the fun. Then the plunge into a full-fledged discussion of three webcomics. Each is a different manifestation of a webcomic and delivers its narrative in specific ways. While some of the comics, such as Demon and The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood, have begun to find their way into print, they are nonetheless first and foremost a comic intended for the Web. There are some, such as Charlie Wormwood and others found on the Thrillbent website, that utilize additive images or visual layovers that appear as individual “pages” as you click through the comic, and others that rely solely on static, unchanging, and individual formatting. And while some webcomics, such as Jason Shiga’s work, are formatted to look like physical comics pages, others, such as the work by Emily Carroll, are great examples of what Scott McCloud has described as the “infinite canvas.” All in all, this is a productive maiden voyage for the guys’ new feature, and they look forward to discussing other examples of webcomics in the months to come. The Two Guys with PhDs are excited to begin a new monthly feature for The Comics Alternative, a show devoted specifically to webcomics. For this inaugural episode, and as they plan on doing for every episode of this new feature, Derek and Andy W. take a look at two current ongoing titles and one older and completed title. The ones they discuss today are Jason Shiga’s Demon; Christina Blanch, Chris Carr, and Chee’s The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood; and Emily Carroll’s Margot’s Room. First, however, the guys begin by defining “webcomics” and distinguishing them from other types of comics or works produced through other means. In doing so, they not only establish their mission statement for this new feature, but they also delineate the parameters of their discussions. They begin by differentiating between webcomics and digital comics, arguing that while the former is based on and consumed through a digital delivery system, not all digital comics are specific to the Web. Along with this they point out the differences between the Internet and the World Wide Web, a distinction that many may have forgotten, describing the Web as just one component of the larger ‘Net. There are many digital comics that are accessed through the Internet — such as those that are downloaded directly to apps intended specifically for portable devices — that may have nothing or little to do with the Web. Webcomics, the guys bluntly state, are those that can be read through Web browsers, imbedded in and largely composing webpages, and may or may not be accessible through other digital means. Another criteria of a webcomic, at least for Andy and Derek, is that the primary or original intention behind the comic’s creation is Web-based, not print. This would rule out many of the digital-first comics put out by the Big Two and other publishers, and it would exclude the digital versions of comic books that are already or are soon to be in print. (And, of course, it excludes the scanning and exchanging of material via torrent sites.) They also consider the potential complications of animation and economics. How many non-static images should a webcomic have before it’s not considered a “comic,” and what kind of payment system may (or may not) affect the defining of a webcomic? At the same time, the guys are aware that their definitions of a webcomic may be fluid — for example, how would you place the works available through Monkey Brain Comics, a digital-only publisher many of whose titles usually end up in (and perhaps ultimately are intended as) print? — and that their understanding of the form may change over time. But Derek and Andy are comfortable with that potential fluidity and feel that the discussion of what defines a webcomic is half of the fun. Then the plunge into a full-fledged discussion of three webcomics. Each is a different manifestation of a webcomic and delivers its narrative in specific ways. While some of the comics, such as Demon and The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood, have begun to find their way into print, they are nonetheless first and foremost a comic intended for the Web. There are some, such as Charlie Wormwood and others found on the Thrillbent website, that utilize additive images or visual layovers that appear as individual “pages” as you click through the comic, and others that rely solely on static, unchanging, and individual formatting. And while some webcomics, such as Jason Shiga’s work, are formatted to look like physical comics pages, others, such as the work by Emily Carroll, are great examples of what Scott McCloud has described as the “infinite canvas.” All in all, this is a productive maiden voyage for the guys’ new feature, and they look forward to discussing other examples of webcomics in the months to come.

]]> 5687 no Episode 111 - Our Annual Thanksgiving Show http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-111.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are back with their annual Thanksgiving show. But this time there are three guys involved. Derek and Andy K. are joined by Andy W. — the first time all three of them have been on the same show! — and together they all share the many things they are thankful for in comics and comics culture. The topics range broadly from the International Comic Arts Forum, to the wealth of classic comics archive editions, to new translations of European comics, to critical series from non-academic publishers, to the appearance of Grant Morrison’s Multiversity (finally!!), to the Previews catalog, to the growth of graphic novels collections in libraries, to Larry Gonick’s Cartoon History of the Universe, to smaller comics publishers that get relatively little attention, to the March series and other historically minded books. In particular, though, the guys are thankful to the listeners of the podcast who chime in with opinions, join the discussion on the forum, and help support The Comics Alternative through Patreon. This show couldn’t really be done without them. So slice an extra piece of that pumpkin pie, dollop out the whipped cream, sit back, and enjoy the warm homestyle goodness of this week’s episode. Wed, 26 Nov 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “It tastes better with gravy.” The Two Guys with PhDs are back with their annual Thanksgiving show. But this time there are three guys involved. Derek and Andy K. are joined by Andy W. — the first time all three of them have been on the same show! — and together they all share the many things they are thankful for in comics and comics culture. The topics range broadly from the International Comic Arts Forum, to the wealth of classic comics archive editions, to new translations of European comics, to critical series from non-academic publishers, to the appearance of Grant Morrison’s Multiversity (finally!!), to the Previews catalog, to the growth of graphic novels collections in libraries, to Larry Gonick’s Cartoon History of the Universe, to smaller comics publishers that get relatively little attention, to the March series and other historically minded books. In particular, though, the guys are thankful to the listeners of the podcast who chime in with opinions, join the discussion on the forum, and help support The Comics Alternative through Patreon. This show couldn’t really be done without them. So slice an extra piece of that pumpkin pie, dollop out the whipped cream, sit back, and enjoy the warm homestyle goodness of this week’s episode. The Two Guys with PhDs are back with their annual Thanksgiving show. But this time there are three guys involved. Derek and Andy K. are joined by Andy W. — the first time all three of them have been on the same show! — and together they all share the many things they are thankful for in comics and comics culture. The topics range broadly from the International Comic Arts Forum, to the wealth of classic comics archive editions, to new translations of European comics, to critical series from non-academic publishers, to the appearance of Grant Morrison’s Multiversity (finally!!), to the Previews catalog, to the growth of graphic novels collections in libraries, to Larry Gonick’s Cartoon History of the Universe, to smaller comics publishers that get relatively little attention, to the March series and other historically minded books. In particular, though, the guys are thankful to the listeners of the podcast who chime in with opinions, join the discussion on the forum, and help support The Comics Alternative through Patreon. This show couldn’t really be done without them. So slice an extra piece of that pumpkin pie, dollop out the whipped cream, sit back, and enjoy the warm homestyle goodness of this week’s episode.

]]> 4612 no Interviews - Mike Howlett http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews29-Howlett.mp3 For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy are pleased have on the show Mike Howlett, the editor of the newly released The Worst of Eerie Publications from IDW/Yoe Books. In fact, Mike is the expert on Eerie Publications — an “Eerie guru,” as he calls himself — and the author of not only the recent collection but also The Weird World of Eerie Publications (a history of the publisher) and the meticulously researched The Weird Indexes of Eerie Publications. They talk with Mike about his extensive research on the various titles released through Eerie Publications during the 1960s and 1970s — e.g., Weird, Horror Tales, Tales from the Tomb, Tales of Voodoo, and Terror Tales — and publisher Myron Fass’s philosophy of recycling old pre-code horror comics. What makes these comics the worst of Eerie are not only their gore and over-the-top premises, but the questionable storytelling and as well as the equally questionable process of reworking/redrawing 1950s comics for a post-1966 audience…and then reprinting those comics in the multiple publications across Eerie’s line. In fact, the guys are fascinated by the entire Eerie Publications process: photocopy pre-code horror comics, find artists who will redraw the originals, add more gore and a few contemporary updates, slap on a horrific cover with a the requisite gratuitous cleavage, and voila! Repeat as necessary. Derek and Andy also ask Mike about the special barf bag they received with their review copies of The Worst of Eerie Publications, and they feel special learning that the bags are a limited run strictly for promotional purposed. Halloween may be over, but as Mike Howlett demonstrates, the comics from Eerie Publications are a gift that keeps on giving. Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Palate Cleanser…or Colon Cleanser? For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy are pleased have on the show Mike Howlett, the editor of the newly released The Worst of Eerie Publications from IDW/Yoe Books. In fact, Mike is the expert on Eerie Publications — an “Eerie guru,” as he calls himself — and the author of not only the recent collection but also The Weird World of Eerie Publications (a history of the publisher) and the meticulously researched The Weird Indexes of Eerie Publications. They talk with Mike about his extensive research on the various titles released through Eerie Publications during the 1960s and 1970s — e.g., Weird, Horror Tales, Tales from the Tomb, Tales of Voodoo, and Terror Tales — and publisher Myron Fass’s philosophy of recycling old pre-code horror comics. What makes these comics the worst of Eerie are not only their gore and over-the-top premises, but the questionable storytelling and as well as the equally questionable process of reworking/redrawing 1950s comics for a post-1966 audience…and then reprinting those comics in the multiple publications across Eerie’s line. In fact, the guys are fascinated by the entire Eerie Publications process: photocopy pre-code horror comics, find artists who will redraw the originals, add more gore and a few contemporary updates, slap on a horrific cover with a the requisite gratuitous cleavage, and voila! Repeat as necessary. Derek and Andy also ask Mike about the special barf bag they received with their review copies of The Worst of Eerie Publications, and they feel special learning that the bags are a limited run strictly for promotional purposed. Halloween may be over, but as Mike Howlett demonstrates, the comics from Eerie Publications are a gift that keeps on giving. For this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy are pleased have on the show Mike Howlett, the editor of the newly released The Worst of Eerie Publications from IDW/Yoe Books. In fact, Mike is the expert on Eerie Publications — an “Eerie guru,” as he calls himself — and the author of not only the recent collection but also The Weird World of Eerie Publications (a history of the publisher) and the meticulously researched The Weird Indexes of Eerie Publications. They talk with Mike about his extensive research on the various titles released through Eerie Publications during the 1960s and 1970s — e.g., Weird, Horror Tales, Tales from the Tomb, Tales of Voodoo, and Terror Tales — and publisher Myron Fass’s philosophy of recycling old pre-code horror comics. What makes these comics the worst of Eerie are not only their gore and over-the-top premises, but the questionable storytelling and as well as the equally questionable process of reworking/redrawing 1950s comics for a post-1966 audience…and then reprinting those comics in the multiple publications across Eerie’s line. In fact, the guys are fascinated by the entire Eerie Publications process: photocopy pre-code horror comics, find artists who will redraw the originals, add more gore and a few contemporary updates, slap on a horrific cover with a the requisite gratuitous cleavage, and voila! Repeat as necessary. Derek and Andy also ask Mike about the special barf bag they received with their review copies of The Worst of Eerie Publications, and they feel special learning that the bags are a limited run strictly for promotional purposed. Halloween may be over, but as Mike Howlett demonstrates, the comics from Eerie Publications are a gift that keeps on giving.

]]> 4159 no On Location - Our November Discussion at Collected Comics in Plano http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation6.mp3 Derek is back at his local comic shop, Collected in Plano, TX, and this month he's talking with customers and employees about comics that are obscure, don't get much appreciation, or have gone unnoticed by most readers. He asks his guests about what they think flies under most people's radar, and the answers he gets are varied and fascinating. Some respond with comics coming out from premium publishers, some with works by creators that you would think had a publicity stranglehold, and others with indie or alternative titles from young artists or unlikely outlets. In fact, the guests bring up the obscurity of several publishers and how it seems that most of their output goes unnoticed by general comics readers. Along with this, Derek and company speculate on why certain titles (or certain publishers) go unnoticed, the discrepancies in PR and marketing, the challenges of cross-media publishers, and the context of audience and what certain reading communities might consider "mainstream" or "obscure." As always, it's a lively discussion at Collected...which is an excellent place to discover new and little-known comics! Fri, 21 Nov 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Off the Grid? Derek is back at his local comic shop, Collected in Plano, TX, and this month he's talking with customers and employees about comics that are obscure, don't get much appreciation, or have gone unnoticed by most readers. He asks his guests about what they think flies under most people's radar, and the answers he gets are varied and fascinating. Some respond with comics coming out from premium publishers, some with works by creators that you would think had a publicity stranglehold, and others with indie or alternative titles from young artists or unlikely outlets. In fact, the guests bring up the obscurity of several publishers and how it seems that most of their output goes unnoticed by general comics readers. Along with this, Derek and company speculate on why certain titles (or certain publishers) go unnoticed, the discrepancies in PR and marketing, the challenges of cross-media publishers, and the context of audience and what certain reading communities might consider "mainstream" or "obscure." As always, it's a lively discussion at Collected...which is an excellent place to discover new and little-known comics! Derek is back at his local comic shop, Collected in Plano, TX, and this month he's talking with customers and employees about comics that are obscure, don't get much appreciation, or have gone unnoticed by most readers. He asks his guests about what they think flies under most people's radar, and the answers he gets are varied and fascinating. Some respond with comics coming out from premium publishers, some with works by creators that you would think had a publicity stranglehold, and others with indie or alternative titles from young artists or unlikely outlets. In fact, the guests bring up the obscurity of several publishers and how it seems that most of their output goes unnoticed by general comics readers. Along with this, Derek and company speculate on why certain titles (or certain publishers) go unnoticed, the discrepancies in PR and marketing, the challenges of cross-media publishers, and the context of audience and what certain reading communities might consider "mainstream" or "obscure." As always, it's a lively discussion at Collected...which is an excellent place to discover new and little-known comics!

]]> 4103 no Episode 110 - A Publisher Spotlight on Nobrow Press http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-110.mp3 On this week's episode, Derek and Andy W. are back with a Publisher Spotlight, and this time the focus is on Nobrow Press and their fall 2014 releases. This relatively small, UK-based publisher may be off of many readers' radar, but they put out a lot of great books, as this week's show will attest. First, the guys discuss Jesse Moynihan's Forming II, the follow up 2011's strange, whacked-out creation narrative Forming. They are fascinated with the myth that Moynihan has created, and they especially love the artist's sense of humor. Next, Derek and Andy move on to Moonhead and the Music Machine, a new graphic novel by Andrew Rae. They highlight Rae's clean, vivid art style, and they speculate on whether or not this book was intended for a younger -- or at least all-age -- readership. Next on the guys' plate is Roman Muradov's (In a Sense) Lost and Found. This is a striking, Kafkaesque narrative with an uneven, dream-like quality. The intended murkiness of the tale may complement the dark palette that Muradov uses, as the guys find many of his images difficult to decipher. Bianca Bagnarelli's Fish is the next book they discuss, a short story -- perhaps more of an emotional vignette -- that is part of the 17x23 series, Nobrow's graphic short story project designed to introduce young artists to a wider readership. Andy and Derek then move on to Corinne Maier and Anne Simon's graphic biography, Marx, which looks at the (surprisingly bourgeois) life behind the famous philosopher/economist, and then they look at Behold! The Dinosaurs!, Dustin Harbin's beautiful concertina that challenges the guys' definition of "comics." Finally, your tireless hosts look at Jamie Coe's Art Schooled -- one of the most sophisticated narrative styles of the week, and definitely Derek's favorite -- and then another graphic biography, Robert Moses: The Master Builder of New York City. There are eight books discussed in all, and this show has to be extra long this week to get in everything. Come and enjoy the creamy filling that is The Comics Alternative! Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Forget me. When you do you'll find a new creamy filling...not just my creamy filling.” On this week's episode, Derek and Andy W. are back with a Publisher Spotlight, and this time the focus is on Nobrow Press and their fall 2014 releases. This relatively small, UK-based publisher may be off of many readers' radar, but they put out a lot of great books, as this week's show will attest. First, the guys discuss Jesse Moynihan's Forming II, the follow up 2011's strange, whacked-out creation narrative Forming. They are fascinated with the myth that Moynihan has created, and they especially love the artist's sense of humor. Next, Derek and Andy move on to Moonhead and the Music Machine, a new graphic novel by Andrew Rae. They highlight Rae's clean, vivid art style, and they speculate on whether or not this book was intended for a younger -- or at least all-age -- readership. Next on the guys' plate is Roman Muradov's (In a Sense) Lost and Found. This is a striking, Kafkaesque narrative with an uneven, dream-like quality. The intended murkiness of the tale may complement the dark palette that Muradov uses, as the guys find many of his images difficult to decipher. Bianca Bagnarelli's Fish is the next book they discuss, a short story -- perhaps more of an emotional vignette -- that is part of the 17x23 series, Nobrow's graphic short story project designed to introduce young artists to a wider readership. Andy and Derek then move on to Corinne Maier and Anne Simon's graphic biography, Marx, which looks at the (surprisingly bourgeois) life behind the famous philosopher/economist, and then they look at Behold! The Dinosaurs!, Dustin Harbin's beautiful concertina that challenges the guys' definition of "comics." Finally, your tireless hosts look at Jamie Coe's Art Schooled -- one of the most sophisticated narrative styles of the week, and definitely Derek's favorite -- and then another graphic biography, Robert Moses: The Master Builder of New York City. There are eight books discussed in all, and this show has to be extra long this week to get in everything. Come and enjoy the creamy filling that is The Comics Alternative! On this week's episode, Derek and Andy W. are back with a Publisher Spotlight, and this time the focus is on Nobrow Press and their fall 2014 releases. This relatively small, UK-based publisher may be off of many readers' radar, but they put out a lot of great books, as this week's show will attest. First, the guys discuss Jesse Moynihan's Forming II, the follow up 2011's strange, whacked-out creation narrative Forming. They are fascinated with the myth that Moynihan has created, and they especially love the artist's sense of humor. Next, Derek and Andy move on to Moonhead and the Music Machine, a new graphic novel by Andrew Rae. They highlight Rae's clean, vivid art style, and they speculate on whether or not this book was intended for a younger -- or at least all-age -- readership. Next on the guys' plate is Roman Muradov's (In a Sense) Lost and Found. This is a striking, Kafkaesque narrative with an uneven, dream-like quality. The intended murkiness of the tale may complement the dark palette that Muradov uses, as the guys find many of his images difficult to decipher. Bianca Bagnarelli's Fish is the next book they discuss, a short story -- perhaps more of an emotional vignette -- that is part of the 17x23 series, Nobrow's graphic short story project designed to introduce young artists to a wider readership. Andy and Derek then move on to Corinne Maier and Anne Simon's graphic biography, Marx, which looks at the (surprisingly bourgeois) life behind the famous philosopher/economist, and then they look at Behold! The Dinosaurs!, Dustin Harbin's beautiful concertina that challenges the guys' definition of "comics." Finally, your tireless hosts look at Jamie Coe's Art Schooled -- one of the most sophisticated narrative styles of the week, and definitely Derek's favorite -- and then another graphic biography, Robert Moses: The Master Builder of New York City. There are eight books discussed in all, and this show has to be extra long this week to get in everything. Come and enjoy the creamy filling that is The Comics Alternative!

]]> 8213 no Episode 109 - Reviews of Baby Bjornstrand, The Kitchen #1, Masterplasty, and The Humans #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-109.mp3 This week on the podcast, Andy W. joins Derek to discuss four recent titles…and boy, are you in for a treat. First, they look at Renée French’s new book, Baby Bjornstrand (Koyama Press). The guys discuss its Samuel Beckett-like setting, the unusual characters that make up the cast, the fragmented temporal arrangements, and French’s stripped down narrative style. Yet while some readers have described the book as bleak and downbeat, both Derek and Andy see a more hopeful — and perhaps even life-affirming — ending in the story. Next, they move from French’s barren landscape outside of time to an all-too-real story set in Hell’s Kitchen during the 1970s. Ollie Masters and Ming Doyle’s The Kitchen #1 (Vertigo) is a solid piece of storytelling that effectively launches this 8-issue miniseries. The guys are particularly taken by the final pages of this first issue, where Masters complicates his premise while at the same time laying on exposition without being overbearing. Andy and Derek then turn their attention to two recent titles from Image Comics. James Harvey’s one-shot Masterplasty is a curious story that doesn’t seem to stand entirely on its own…which may explain why Harvey describes it as a prequel to a much longer narrative he’s working on. Perhaps the most notable thing about this comic is its unconventional size, the ultimate purpose of which has the guys scratching their heads. Finally, they look at the first issue in a new series from Keenan Marshall Keller and Tom Neely, The Humans. Unlike most reviewers of this title, Derek and Andy don’t feel that this has much of a Planet of the Apes vibe. (Also, that’s way too facile a comparison, just because you have apes riding motorcycles.) Instead, they feel that the story in this first issues stands entirely on its own, and if anything, it reminds the guys of the kind of biker movies they remembered from the 1970s. While this is yet another offbeat humor comic from Image — following in the wake of God Hates Astronauts and Punks: The Comic — it’s one with a harder edge…as the overt references to pot, Quaaludes, and fellatio will attest. There’s a lot of weird, fun stuff for this week, and we hope you will join Andy and Derek for the wild ride. Wed, 12 Nov 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “For Life. Till Death.” This week on the podcast, Andy W. joins Derek to discuss four recent titles…and boy, are you in for a treat. First, they look at Renée French’s new book, Baby Bjornstrand (Koyama Press). The guys discuss its Samuel Beckett-like setting, the unusual characters that make up the cast, the fragmented temporal arrangements, and French’s stripped down narrative style. Yet while some readers have described the book as bleak and downbeat, both Derek and Andy see a more hopeful — and perhaps even life-affirming — ending in the story. Next, they move from French’s barren landscape outside of time to an all-too-real story set in Hell’s Kitchen during the 1970s. Ollie Masters and Ming Doyle’s The Kitchen #1 (Vertigo) is a solid piece of storytelling that effectively launches this 8-issue miniseries. The guys are particularly taken by the final pages of this first issue, where Masters complicates his premise while at the same time laying on exposition without being overbearing. Andy and Derek then turn their attention to two recent titles from Image Comics. James Harvey’s one-shot Masterplasty is a curious story that doesn’t seem to stand entirely on its own…which may explain why Harvey describes it as a prequel to a much longer narrative he’s working on. Perhaps the most notable thing about this comic is its unconventional size, the ultimate purpose of which has the guys scratching their heads. Finally, they look at the first issue in a new series from Keenan Marshall Keller and Tom Neely, The Humans. Unlike most reviewers of this title, Derek and Andy don’t feel that this has much of a Planet of the Apes vibe. (Also, that’s way too facile a comparison, just because you have apes riding motorcycles.) Instead, they feel that the story in this first issues stands entirely on its own, and if anything, it reminds the guys of the kind of biker movies they remembered from the 1970s. While this is yet another offbeat humor comic from Image — following in the wake of God Hates Astronauts and Punks: The Comic — it’s one with a harder edge…as the overt references to pot, Quaaludes, and fellatio will attest. There’s a lot of weird, fun stuff for this week, and we hope you will join Andy and Derek for the wild ride. This week on the podcast, Andy W. joins Derek to discuss four recent titles…and boy, are you in for a treat. First, they look at Renée French’s new book, Baby Bjornstrand (Koyama Press). The guys discuss its Samuel Beckett-like setting, the unusual characters that make up the cast, the fragmented temporal arrangements, and French’s stripped down narrative style. Yet while some readers have described the book as bleak and downbeat, both Derek and Andy see a more hopeful — and perhaps even life-affirming — ending in the story. Next, they move from French’s barren landscape outside of time to an all-too-real story set in Hell’s Kitchen during the 1970s. Ollie Masters and Ming Doyle’s The Kitchen #1 (Vertigo) is a solid piece of storytelling that effectively launches this 8-issue miniseries. The guys are particularly taken by the final pages of this first issue, where Masters complicates his premise while at the same time laying on exposition without being overbearing. Andy and Derek then turn their attention to two recent titles from Image Comics. James Harvey’s one-shot Masterplasty is a curious story that doesn’t seem to stand entirely on its own…which may explain why Harvey describes it as a prequel to a much longer narrative he’s working on. Perhaps the most notable thing about this comic is its unconventional size, the ultimate purpose of which has the guys scratching their heads. Finally, they look at the first issue in a new series from Keenan Marshall Keller and Tom Neely, The Humans. Unlike most reviewers of this title, Derek and Andy don’t feel that this has much of a Planet of the Apes vibe. (Also, that’s way too facile a comparison, just because you have apes riding motorcycles.) Instead, they feel that the story in this first issues stands entirely on its own, and if anything, it reminds the guys of the kind of biker movies they remembered from the 1970s. While this is yet another offbeat humor comic from Image — following in the wake of God Hates Astronauts and Punks: The Comic — it’s one with a harder edge…as the overt references to pot, Quaaludes, and fellatio will attest. There’s a lot of weird, fun stuff for this week, and we hope you will join Andy and Derek for the wild ride.

]]> 6514 no Interviews - Jules Feiffer http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews28-Feiffer.mp3 On this Veteran’s Day, the Two Guys salute one of the most talented, and certainly the most satirical, men to serve in the U.S. military: Jules Feiffer. They talk with him about his latest book, and his first graphic novel, Kill My Mother (Liveright), and about his decision to write within the noir/crime genre. Derek and Andy are particularly curious about the artist’s interest in classic film noir, his handling of fast and smart dialogue, and his use of a cinematic technique to tell his story. They spend a good deal of time asking Feiffer about the evolution of the narrative and the ways his characters unfolded during the creative process. Kill My Mother is set in the 1930s and early 1940s, and Feiffer reveals to the guys — and much to their surprise — that this is just the first in a planned trilogy of stories. The next book, Cousin Joseph, will be a prequel to the recent graphic novel, and then the third will take place during the McCarthy era and deal with the blacklist. Along the way they discuss Tantrum — a “novel-in-pictures,” not a “graphic novel” — the impetus behind the classic The Great Comic Book Heroes, his experiences writing for film and the theater, and his relationship with Will Eisner and his time on The Spirit. This is a great interview, and Andy and Derek are grateful for the time that Jules gave to them. Plus, they’re excited because this is the first time they’ve ever had a Pulitzer Prize winner and and Academy Award winner on the show! Tue, 11 Nov 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”We said things that made Jules Feiffer laugh” On this Veteran’s Day, the Two Guys salute one of the most talented, and certainly the most satirical, men to serve in the U.S. military: Jules Feiffer. They talk with him about his latest book, and his first graphic novel, Kill My Mother (Liveright), and about his decision to write within the noir/crime genre. Derek and Andy are particularly curious about the artist’s interest in classic film noir, his handling of fast and smart dialogue, and his use of a cinematic technique to tell his story. They spend a good deal of time asking Feiffer about the evolution of the narrative and the ways his characters unfolded during the creative process. Kill My Mother is set in the 1930s and early 1940s, and Feiffer reveals to the guys — and much to their surprise — that this is just the first in a planned trilogy of stories. The next book, Cousin Joseph, will be a prequel to the recent graphic novel, and then the third will take place during the McCarthy era and deal with the blacklist. Along the way they discuss Tantrum — a “novel-in-pictures,” not a “graphic novel” — the impetus behind the classic The Great Comic Book Heroes, his experiences writing for film and the theater, and his relationship with Will Eisner and his time on The Spirit. This is a great interview, and Andy and Derek are grateful for the time that Jules gave to them. Plus, they’re excited because this is the first time they’ve ever had a Pulitzer Prize winner and and Academy Award winner on the show! On this Veteran’s Day, the Two Guys salute one of the most talented, and certainly the most satirical, men to serve in the U.S. military: Jules Feiffer. They talk with him about his latest book, and his first graphic novel, Kill My Mother (Liveright), and about his decision to write within the noir/crime genre. Derek and Andy are particularly curious about the artist’s interest in classic film noir, his handling of fast and smart dialogue, and his use of a cinematic technique to tell his story. They spend a good deal of time asking Feiffer about the evolution of the narrative and the ways his characters unfolded during the creative process. Kill My Mother is set in the 1930s and early 1940s, and Feiffer reveals to the guys — and much to their surprise — that this is just the first in a planned trilogy of stories. The next book, Cousin Joseph, will be a prequel to the recent graphic novel, and then the third will take place during the McCarthy era and deal with the blacklist. Along the way they discuss Tantrum — a “novel-in-pictures,” not a “graphic novel” — the impetus behind the classic The Great Comic Book Heroes, his experiences writing for film and the theater, and his relationship with Will Eisner and his time on The Spirit. This is a great interview, and Andy and Derek are grateful for the time that Jules gave to them. Plus, they’re excited because this is the first time they’ve ever had a Pulitzer Prize winner and and Academy Award winner on the show!

]]> 4515 no Episode 108 - The November Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-108.mp3 It’s the beginning of the month, and that means it’s time once again for the Two Guys with PhDs to delve into the latest Previews catalog. For November, there are a lot of interesting solicitations, more than the guys had expected for titles being released in the aftermath of the holidays. Some of the great upcoming comics they highlight include Murder Book, Demo, and Tex: The Lonesome Rider (Dark Horse); Effigy #1, Fables: The Wolf among Us #1, and Ocean/Orbiter Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); The Squidder, and Imaginary Drugs (IDW Publishing); Casanova: Acedia #1, The Dying and the Dead #1, Criminal Special Edition One-Shot, and Big Hard Sex Criminals (Image Comics); Star Wars #1 and The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1 (Marvel); Pirate Eye: Exiled from Exile #1 and Princeless: The Pirate Princess #1 (Action Lab Entertainment); Museum of Mistakes: The Fart Party Collection (Atomic Book Company); Fungus: The Unbearable Rot of Being (Big Planet Comics); the five new King Features titles from Dynamite Entertainment; First Year Healthy (Drawn and Quarterly); five Thunderbirds volumes from Egmont UK; Spawn of Mars and Other Stories, Foolbert Funnies: Histories and Other Fictions, and Treasury of Mini Comics Vol. 2 (Fantagraphics); Fatherland: A Family History (Liveright); March Book Two (Top Shelf Productions); and Manga Classics: The Scarlet Letter (Udon Entertainment). Plus, Derek and Andy recommend a few titles in the “Books” section of the catalog, such as Bart Beaty’s Twelve-Cent Archie, Andrew Hoberek’s Wonder Woman: Bondage and Feminism in the Marston/Peters Comics, and Sarah Lightman’s edited collection, Graphic Details: Jewish Women’s Confessional Comics. There’s a lot packed into this episode of solicits and recommendations, so listen carefully and take notes! Wed, 05 Nov 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “A very large package” It’s the beginning of the month, and that means it’s time once again for the Two Guys with PhDs to delve into the latest Previews catalog. For November, there are a lot of interesting solicitations, more than the guys had expected for titles being released in the aftermath of the holidays. Some of the great upcoming comics they highlight include Murder Book, Demo, and Tex: The Lonesome Rider (Dark Horse); Effigy #1, Fables: The Wolf among Us #1, and Ocean/Orbiter Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); The Squidder, and Imaginary Drugs (IDW Publishing); Casanova: Acedia #1, The Dying and the Dead #1, Criminal Special Edition One-Shot, and Big Hard Sex Criminals (Image Comics); Star Wars #1 and The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1 (Marvel); Pirate Eye: Exiled from Exile #1 and Princeless: The Pirate Princess #1 (Action Lab Entertainment); Museum of Mistakes: The Fart Party Collection (Atomic Book Company); Fungus: The Unbearable Rot of Being (Big Planet Comics); the five new King Features titles from Dynamite Entertainment; First Year Healthy (Drawn and Quarterly); five Thunderbirds volumes from Egmont UK; Spawn of Mars and Other Stories, Foolbert Funnies: Histories and Other Fictions, and Treasury of Mini Comics Vol. 2 (Fantagraphics); Fatherland: A Family History (Liveright); March Book Two (Top Shelf Productions); and Manga Classics: The Scarlet Letter (Udon Entertainment). Plus, Derek and Andy recommend a few titles in the “Books” section of the catalog, such as Bart Beaty’s Twelve-Cent Archie, Andrew Hoberek’s Wonder Woman: Bondage and Feminism in the Marston/Peters Comics, and Sarah Lightman’s edited collection, Graphic Details: Jewish Women’s Confessional Comics. There’s a lot packed into this episode of solicits and recommendations, so listen carefully and take notes! It’s the beginning of the month, and that means it’s time once again for the Two Guys with PhDs to delve into the latest Previews catalog. For November, there are a lot of interesting solicitations, more than the guys had expected for titles being released in the aftermath of the holidays. Some of the great upcoming comics they highlight include Murder Book, Demo, and Tex: The Lonesome Rider (Dark Horse); Effigy #1, Fables: The Wolf among Us #1, and Ocean/Orbiter Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); The Squidder, and Imaginary Drugs (IDW Publishing); Casanova: Acedia #1, The Dying and the Dead #1, Criminal Special Edition One-Shot, and Big Hard Sex Criminals (Image Comics); Star Wars #1 and The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1 (Marvel); Pirate Eye: Exiled from Exile #1 and Princeless: The Pirate Princess #1 (Action Lab Entertainment); Museum of Mistakes: The Fart Party Collection (Atomic Book Company); Fungus: The Unbearable Rot of Being (Big Planet Comics); the five new King Features titles from Dynamite Entertainment; First Year Healthy (Drawn and Quarterly); five Thunderbirds volumes from Egmont UK; Spawn of Mars and Other Stories, Foolbert Funnies: Histories and Other Fictions, and Treasury of Mini Comics Vol. 2 (Fantagraphics); Fatherland: A Family History (Liveright); March Book Two (Top Shelf Productions); and Manga Classics: The Scarlet Letter (Udon Entertainment). Plus, Derek and Andy recommend a few titles in the “Books” section of the catalog, such as Bart Beaty’s Twelve-Cent Archie, Andrew Hoberek’s Wonder Woman: Bondage and Feminism in the Marston/Peters Comics, and Sarah Lightman’s edited collection, Graphic Details: Jewish Women’s Confessional Comics. There’s a lot packed into this episode of solicits and recommendations, so listen carefully and take notes!

]]> 5723 yes Interviews - Jim Balent and Holly Golightly http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews27-BalentGolightly.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has a post-Halloween conversation with the creators behind BroadSword Comics, Jim Balent and Holly Golightly. They talk about their unique collaborative relationship — both personally and professionally — and their various creative endeavors over the years. More specifically, Derek asks them about their upcoming new Kickstarter campaign, “Crossover,” which will bring together the worlds of Jim’s Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose and Holly’s School Bites. In the corse of the conversation, the two artists share the story behind their strong work ethnic, Jim’s time illustrating Catwoman and its links to the character Tarot, the ins and outs of running a small press, Holly’s history with music celebrities (and 1980s pop culture), their many experiences with their dedicated fan base, the challenges of creating a webcomic, the impact of Holly’s social media savvy, and a few of the negative reactions they’ve received from social conservatives. They wrap up their talk with Holly dubbing The Comics Alternative a smart and sexy podcast…perhaps one of the best compliments that the Two Guys have ever received. Much thanks, Holly! Mon, 03 Nov 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”Smart is the new sexy” On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has a post-Halloween conversation with the creators behind BroadSword Comics, Jim Balent and Holly Golightly. They talk about their unique collaborative relationship — both personally and professionally — and their various creative endeavors over the years. More specifically, Derek asks them about their upcoming new Kickstarter campaign, “Crossover,” which will bring together the worlds of Jim’s Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose and Holly’s School Bites. In the corse of the conversation, the two artists share the story behind their strong work ethnic, Jim’s time illustrating Catwoman and its links to the character Tarot, the ins and outs of running a small press, Holly’s history with music celebrities (and 1980s pop culture), their many experiences with their dedicated fan base, the challenges of creating a webcomic, the impact of Holly’s social media savvy, and a few of the negative reactions they’ve received from social conservatives. They wrap up their talk with Holly dubbing The Comics Alternative a smart and sexy podcast…perhaps one of the best compliments that the Two Guys have ever received. Much thanks, Holly! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek has a post-Halloween conversation with the creators behind BroadSword Comics, Jim Balent and Holly Golightly. They talk about their unique collaborative relationship — both personally and professionally — and their various creative endeavors over the years. More specifically, Derek asks them about their upcoming new Kickstarter campaign, “Crossover,” which will bring together the worlds of Jim’s Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose and Holly’s School Bites. In the corse of the conversation, the two artists share the story behind their strong work ethnic, Jim’s time illustrating Catwoman and its links to the character Tarot, the ins and outs of running a small press, Holly’s history with music celebrities (and 1980s pop culture), their many experiences with their dedicated fan base, the challenges of creating a webcomic, the impact of Holly’s social media savvy, and a few of the negative reactions they’ve received from social conservatives. They wrap up their talk with Holly dubbing The Comics Alternative a smart and sexy podcast…perhaps one of the best compliments that the Two Guys have ever received. Much thanks, Holly!

]]> 5094 no Special - Halloween Comics 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special2.mp3 You’ll definitely find treats, and not tricks, on this special episode of The Comics Alternative. Derek and Gene take their annual look at the various comics being releases specifically for Halloween or published to coincide with the season. They begin with what is probably their favorite of the lot — at least Derek’s favorite — Richard Corben’s new book, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirits of the Dead (Dark Horse). They point out that while this is an October release, the majority of the stories collected in this volume originally appeared as either single issues or in Dark Horse Presents over the past two years. This is yet another series of Poe adaptation from the great Corben, following his early work for Eerie and Creepy — and most recently collected in Creepy Presents Richard Corben — and Marvel’s Haunt of Horror: Edgar Allan Poe. (For more about Corben’s work on Poe, specifically commentary on the adaptations found in the new book, check out Derek’s recent interview with the artist.) Next the Two Guys turn to a new, fun book from Zac Gorman, Costume Quest: Invasion of the Candy Snatchers (Oni Press). This is based on the popular roleplaying game, Costume Quest with which neither Gene and Derek are familiar. But that doesn’t stop them from enjoying this all-age comic. Then they look at a series single issues, beginning with another game-based title, Ian Edginton and Alex Sanchez’s The Evil Within #1 (Titan Comics), and one of DC’s free releases for this year’s Halloween ComicFest, Scooby-Doo Team Up Special Edition (written by Sholly Fisch and art by Dario Brizuela). After that they discuss one of the most exciting new titles of the season, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Robert Hack’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #1 (Archie Comics). The guys feel that this will surely follow the popular and critical success of last year’s Afterlife with Archie, and it has the potential of even surpassing it. Next, they look at the first issue of Ty Thomas Kuckman, Trevor Luckman, and Dave Mim’s All Hallows’ Eve (215 Ink), Donny Cates and Daniel Warren Johnson’s Ghost Fleet #1 (Dark Horse), and Alan Robert’s Killjoy: Special Halloween One-Shot (IDW Publishing). Finally, they wrap up with a survey of Zenescope’s holiday offerings: Grimm Fairy Tales 2014 Halloween Special, Zombies vs. Cheerleaders Halloween Special, and Hollywood Zombie Apocalypse #1. As the guys reveal, it’s a mixed back with Zenescope, but if you’re looking for a little cheesecake thrown in with your cheesy horror, these titles might be for you. Whatever your tastes, you’re certain to find some good comics reading this Halloween season! Thu, 30 Oct 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Zoinks! You’ll definitely find treats, and not tricks, on this special episode of The Comics Alternative. Derek and Gene take their annual look at the various comics being releases specifically for Halloween or published to coincide with the season. They begin with what is probably their favorite of the lot — at least Derek’s favorite — Richard Corben’s new book, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirits of the Dead (Dark Horse). They point out that while this is an October release, the majority of the stories collected in this volume originally appeared as either single issues or in Dark Horse Presents over the past two years. This is yet another series of Poe adaptation from the great Corben, following his early work for Eerie and Creepy — and most recently collected in Creepy Presents Richard Corben — and Marvel’s Haunt of Horror: Edgar Allan Poe. (For more about Corben’s work on Poe, specifically commentary on the adaptations found in the new book, check out Derek’s recent interview with the artist.) Next the Two Guys turn to a new, fun book from Zac Gorman, Costume Quest: Invasion of the Candy Snatchers (Oni Press). This is based on the popular roleplaying game, Costume Quest with which neither Gene and Derek are familiar. But that doesn’t stop them from enjoying this all-age comic. Then they look at a series single issues, beginning with another game-based title, Ian Edginton and Alex Sanchez’s The Evil Within #1 (Titan Comics), and one of DC’s free releases for this year’s Halloween ComicFest, Scooby-Doo Team Up Special Edition (written by Sholly Fisch and art by Dario Brizuela). After that they discuss one of the most exciting new titles of the season, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Robert Hack’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #1 (Archie Comics). The guys feel that this will surely follow the popular and critical success of last year’s Afterlife with Archie, and it has the potential of even surpassing it. Next, they look at the first issue of Ty Thomas Kuckman, Trevor Luckman, and Dave Mim’s All Hallows’ Eve (215 Ink), Donny Cates and Daniel Warren Johnson’s Ghost Fleet #1 (Dark Horse), and Alan Robert’s Killjoy: Special Halloween One-Shot (IDW Publishing). Finally, they wrap up with a survey of Zenescope’s holiday offerings: Grimm Fairy Tales 2014 Halloween Special, Zombies vs. Cheerleaders Halloween Special, and Hollywood Zombie Apocalypse #1. As the guys reveal, it’s a mixed back with Zenescope, but if you’re looking for a little cheesecake thrown in with your cheesy horror, these titles might be for you. Whatever your tastes, you’re certain to find some good comics reading this Halloween season! You’ll definitely find treats, and not tricks, on this special episode of The Comics Alternative. Derek and Gene take their annual look at the various comics being releases specifically for Halloween or published to coincide with the season. They begin with what is probably their favorite of the lot — at least Derek’s favorite — Richard Corben’s new book, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirits of the Dead (Dark Horse). They point out that while this is an October release, the majority of the stories collected in this volume originally appeared as either single issues or in Dark Horse Presents over the past two years. This is yet another series of Poe adaptation from the great Corben, following his early work for Eerie and Creepy — and most recently collected in Creepy Presents Richard Corben — and Marvel’s Haunt of Horror: Edgar Allan Poe. (For more about Corben’s work on Poe, specifically commentary on the adaptations found in the new book, check out Derek’s recent interview with the artist.) Next the Two Guys turn to a new, fun book from Zac Gorman, Costume Quest: Invasion of the Candy Snatchers (Oni Press). This is based on the popular roleplaying game, Costume Quest with which neither Gene and Derek are familiar. But that doesn’t stop them from enjoying this all-age comic. Then they look at a series single issues, beginning with another game-based title, Ian Edginton and Alex Sanchez’s The Evil Within #1 (Titan Comics), and one of DC’s free releases for this year’s Halloween ComicFest, Scooby-Doo Team Up Special Edition (written by Sholly Fisch and art by Dario Brizuela). After that they discuss one of the most exciting new titles of the season, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Robert Hack’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #1 (Archie Comics). The guys feel that this will surely follow the popular and critical success of last year’s Afterlife with Archie, and it has the potential of even surpassing it. Next, they look at the first issue of Ty Thomas Kuckman, Trevor Luckman, and Dave Mim’s All Hallows’ Eve (215 Ink), Donny Cates and Daniel Warren Johnson’s Ghost Fleet #1 (Dark Horse), and Alan Robert’s Killjoy: Special Halloween One-Shot (IDW Publishing). Finally, they wrap up with a survey of Zenescope’s holiday offerings: Grimm Fairy Tales 2014 Halloween Special, Zombies vs. Cheerleaders Halloween Special, and Hollywood Zombie Apocalypse #1. As the guys reveal, it’s a mixed back with Zenescope, but if you’re looking for a little cheesecake thrown in with your cheesy horror, these titles might be for you. Whatever your tastes, you’re certain to find some good comics reading this Halloween season!

]]> 6796 no Episode 107 - A Publisher Spotlight on SelfMadeHero http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-107.mp3 Andy and Derek are back with another special Publisher Spotlight episode of the podcast, and this time they turn their gaze to SelfMadeHero. The guys have reviewed a variety of SelfMadeHero books in the past, but this week they decided to devote an entire episode to the publisher’s fall releases. They begin with Jörg Tittel and John Aggs’s Ricky Rouse Has a Gun, a satiric look at copyright and corporate ownership, especially as it relates to Chinese appropriation of Western icons. At least, that’s what the Two Guys assumed the book would be about. Although this premise is teased out in the setup, they read Ricky Rouse more like a Die Hard shoot-em-up set in an amusement park. Next, they turn to Rob Davis’s Motherless Oven, a coming-of-age narrative set in a world that is both familiar yet fantastic. The book’s protagonist, Scarper Lee, attempts to come to terms with his deathday (as opposed to his birthday), with the help of rebellious school companions. Think of The Wall and Quadrophenia with a bit of sci-fi mixed in. The guys also discuss two new graphic novel adaptations from the publisher, Victor Hugo’s The Man Who Laughs (written and adapted by David Hine, with art by Mark Stafford) and H. P. Lovecraft’s The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath (adapted and illustrated by I. N. J. Culbard). The Man Who Laughs is truly outstanding, and it’s one of the guys’ favorites of the week. Hine does a great job of distilling the main story from Hugo’s sprawling novel, and Stafford’s illustrations help bring out the grotesque, and tragic, qualities of the narrative. Culbard, known for his work in horror — and especially for his recent adaptations of Lovecraft’s fiction — is in prime form with Dream-Quest, adapting the story in ways that retain its dream-like tone. Sense and coherency in the narrative is always, and intentionally, just out of reach. Derek and Andy then discuss two other new books from SelfMadeHero, both of them second volumes or parts of earlier stories. In Aama 2: The Invisible Throng, Frederik Peeters continues the story of Verloc Nim, his brother Conrad, and their robot ape companion, Churchill, in their quest on the desert planet Ona(ji). (The first volume was reviewed on Episode 77 back in April.) And in Best of Enemies: A History of US and Middle East Relations, Part Two: 1953-1984, historian Jean-Pierre Filiu and David B. pick up from their earlier graphic history, published in 2012, and cover events that take place between the Six-Day War and the bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The guys pack a lot into this Publisher Spotlight episode, demonstrating the impressive variety of books coming out from one of their favorite publishers. Wed, 29 Oct 2014 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “I grew to sympathize with Ice-T” Andy and Derek are back with another special Publisher Spotlight episode of the podcast, and this time they turn their gaze to SelfMadeHero. The guys have reviewed a variety of SelfMadeHero books in the past, but this week they decided to devote an entire episode to the publisher’s fall releases. They begin with Jörg Tittel and John Aggs’s Ricky Rouse Has a Gun, a satiric look at copyright and corporate ownership, especially as it relates to Chinese appropriation of Western icons. At least, that’s what the Two Guys assumed the book would be about. Although this premise is teased out in the setup, they read Ricky Rouse more like a Die Hard shoot-em-up set in an amusement park. Next, they turn to Rob Davis’s Motherless Oven, a coming-of-age narrative set in a world that is both familiar yet fantastic. The book’s protagonist, Scarper Lee, attempts to come to terms with his deathday (as opposed to his birthday), with the help of rebellious school companions. Think of The Wall and Quadrophenia with a bit of sci-fi mixed in. The guys also discuss two new graphic novel adaptations from the publisher, Victor Hugo’s The Man Who Laughs (written and adapted by David Hine, with art by Mark Stafford) and H. P. Lovecraft’s The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath (adapted and illustrated by I. N. J. Culbard). The Man Who Laughs is truly outstanding, and it’s one of the guys’ favorites of the week. Hine does a great job of distilling the main story from Hugo’s sprawling novel, and Stafford’s illustrations help bring out the grotesque, and tragic, qualities of the narrative. Culbard, known for his work in horror — and especially for his recent adaptations of Lovecraft’s fiction — is in prime form with Dream-Quest, adapting the story in ways that retain its dream-like tone. Sense and coherency in the narrative is always, and intentionally, just out of reach. Derek and Andy then discuss two other new books from SelfMadeHero, both of them second volumes or parts of earlier stories. In Aama 2: The Invisible Throng, Frederik Peeters continues the story of Verloc Nim, his brother Conrad, and their robot ape companion, Churchill, in their quest on the desert planet Ona(ji). (The first volume was reviewed on Episode 77 back in April.) And in Best of Enemies: A History of US and Middle East Relations, Part Two: 1953-1984, historian Jean-Pierre Filiu and David B. pick up from their earlier graphic history, published in 2012, and cover events that take place between the Six-Day War and the bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The guys pack a lot into this Publisher Spotlight episode, demonstrating the impressive variety of books coming out from one of their favorite publishers. Andy and Derek are back with another special Publisher Spotlight episode of the podcast, and this time they turn their gaze to SelfMadeHero. The guys have reviewed a variety of SelfMadeHero books in the past, but this week they decided to devote an entire episode to the publisher’s fall releases. They begin with Jörg Tittel and John Aggs’s Ricky Rouse Has a Gun, a satiric look at copyright and corporate ownership, especially as it relates to Chinese appropriation of Western icons. At least, that’s what the Two Guys assumed the book would be about. Although this premise is teased out in the setup, they read Ricky Rouse more like a Die Hard shoot-em-up set in an amusement park. Next, they turn to Rob Davis’s Motherless Oven, a coming-of-age narrative set in a world that is both familiar yet fantastic. The book’s protagonist, Scarper Lee, attempts to come to terms with his deathday (as opposed to his birthday), with the help of rebellious school companions. Think of The Wall and Quadrophenia with a bit of sci-fi mixed in. The guys also discuss two new graphic novel adaptations from the publisher, Victor Hugo’s The Man Who Laughs (written and adapted by David Hine, with art by Mark Stafford) and H. P. Lovecraft’s The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath (adapted and illustrated by I. N. J. Culbard). The Man Who Laughs is truly outstanding, and it’s one of the guys’ favorites of the week. Hine does a great job of distilling the main story from Hugo’s sprawling novel, and Stafford’s illustrations help bring out the grotesque, and tragic, qualities of the narrative. Culbard, known for his work in horror — and especially for his recent adaptations of Lovecraft’s fiction — is in prime form with Dream-Quest, adapting the story in ways that retain its dream-like tone. Sense and coherency in the narrative is always, and intentionally, just out of reach. Derek and Andy then discuss two other new books from SelfMadeHero, both of them second volumes or parts of earlier stories. In Aama 2: The Invisible Throng, Frederik Peeters continues the story of Verloc Nim, his brother Conrad, and their robot ape companion, Churchill, in their quest on the desert planet Ona(ji). (The first volume was reviewed on Episode 77 back in April.) And in Best of Enemies: A History of US and Middle East Relations, Part Two: 1953-1984, historian Jean-Pierre Filiu and David B. pick up from their earlier graphic history, published in 2012, and cover events that take place between the Six-Day War and the bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The guys pack a lot into this Publisher Spotlight episode, demonstrating the impressive variety of books coming out from one of their favorite publishers.

]]> 6311 no On Location - Halloween ComicFest 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation5.mp3 For this year’s Halloween ComicFest, Derek is at his local shop, Collected in Plano, TX, to talk with customers, employees, and guests about the kind of Halloween and comics-related stuff going on this year. They discuss the kind of free comics being given out this year — such as reprints of Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight, Afterlife with Archie, Rachel Rising, and Marvel’s Secret Wars (which has nothing to do with Halloween or anything horror-related) — and the kind of costumes that everyone was wearing for the event. Derek also manages to talk with artist Jefferson Muncy and professional cosplayer Krystle Starr about the work that they do and what they’re bringing to the event. Among the highlights are strong recommendations for Terry Moore’s Rachel Rising series, a primer on the art scene in Dallas, a strange and disturbing story concerning a B-list (really, more of a C- or D-list) celebrity at last weekend’s Dallas Comic Con, and Derek’s futile attempt to find someone who actually watched the first episode of NBC’s Constantine. All in all, everyone had a good time at the event…and Derek got his share of free Halloween ComicFest comics! Mon, 27 Oct 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Scary? For this year’s Halloween ComicFest, Derek is at his local shop, Collected in Plano, TX, to talk with customers, employees, and guests about the kind of Halloween and comics-related stuff going on this year. They discuss the kind of free comics being given out this year — such as reprints of Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight, Afterlife with Archie, Rachel Rising, and Marvel’s Secret Wars (which has nothing to do with Halloween or anything horror-related) — and the kind of costumes that everyone was wearing for the event. Derek also manages to talk with artist Jefferson Muncy and professional cosplayer Krystle Starr about the work that they do and what they’re bringing to the event. Among the highlights are strong recommendations for Terry Moore’s Rachel Rising series, a primer on the art scene in Dallas, a strange and disturbing story concerning a B-list (really, more of a C- or D-list) celebrity at last weekend’s Dallas Comic Con, and Derek’s futile attempt to find someone who actually watched the first episode of NBC’s Constantine. All in all, everyone had a good time at the event…and Derek got his share of free Halloween ComicFest comics! For this year’s Halloween ComicFest, Derek is at his local shop, Collected in Plano, TX, to talk with customers, employees, and guests about the kind of Halloween and comics-related stuff going on this year. They discuss the kind of free comics being given out this year — such as reprints of Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight, Afterlife with Archie, Rachel Rising, and Marvel’s Secret Wars (which has nothing to do with Halloween or anything horror-related) — and the kind of costumes that everyone was wearing for the event. Derek also manages to talk with artist Jefferson Muncy and professional cosplayer Krystle Starr about the work that they do and what they’re bringing to the event. Among the highlights are strong recommendations for Terry Moore’s Rachel Rising series, a primer on the art scene in Dallas, a strange and disturbing story concerning a B-list (really, more of a C- or D-list) celebrity at last weekend’s Dallas Comic Con, and Derek’s futile attempt to find someone who actually watched the first episode of NBC’s Constantine. All in all, everyone had a good time at the event…and Derek got his share of free Halloween ComicFest comics!

]]> 5068 no Episode 106 - Reviews of Skandalon, Meteor Men, and Punks: The Comic #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-106.mp3 This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss three new titles that range from the profound to the insane. They begin with the new book from Julie Maroh, Skandalon (Arsenal Pulp Press). It’s the story of a French rock star, Tazane, with international appeal and the power to move a vast legion of fans. The book is thesis driven, with Maroh exploring the dynamics, and the costs, of modern celebrity status and its affects on both the personal and collective psyche. Neither of the guys have yet read Maroh’s first graphic novel — and the one for which she’s best known — Blue Is the Warmest Color, but after digesting Skandalon they feel that their appreciation of the work may be enhanced, or at least contextualized, by the earlier book. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs move on the new work from Jeff Parker and Sandy Jarrell, Meteor Men (Oni Press). While at first they were skeptical of the potential formulaic nature of the narrative — aliens coming to Earth and the resulting aftermath — they’re fascinated by the ways in which Parker complicates conventions to make the story unique. They’re particularly struck by the book’s teenage protagonist, Alden, the complexities of his character, and the circumstances surrounding his link to the extraterrestrials. While the guys disagree as to extents of Parker and Jarrell’s deviation from the genre — Andy feels that the governmental/military response to the aliens is nuanced, while Derek thinks that it’s more predictable and even heavy-handed — they both conclude that Meteor Men presents a different perspective on a popular formula. This is no E.T. Finally, the guys wrap up with what both feel is the highlight of the week, the first issue of Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain’s Punks: The Comic (Image Comics). This has to be one of the most whacked out comics they’re read in a long time, rivaling the craziness and no-holds-barred fun of Ryan Browne’s God Hates Astronauts and Evan Dorkin’s Milk and Cheese. In this first issue of the new ongoing series, we get two short stories — the funniest being the lead off, “Firsts” — a portion of an earlier, self-published Punks comic, and a three-page fun-and-activities section, complete with a card game called Nutpuncher. Andy and Derek laugh their way through the final part of the podcast, and they eagerly look forward to following the future exploits of Dog, Skull, Fist, and Abraham Lincoln. Also, the Two Guys welcome a new Podcast Patron, Tom Mathews, who believes The Comics Alternative does for comics what Sound Opinions does for music. You can’t get much better praise than that! Wed, 22 Oct 2014 22:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Lots of nut punching” This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss three new titles that range from the profound to the insane. They begin with the new book from Julie Maroh, Skandalon (Arsenal Pulp Press). It’s the story of a French rock star, Tazane, with international appeal and the power to move a vast legion of fans. The book is thesis driven, with Maroh exploring the dynamics, and the costs, of modern celebrity status and its affects on both the personal and collective psyche. Neither of the guys have yet read Maroh’s first graphic novel — and the one for which she’s best known — Blue Is the Warmest Color, but after digesting Skandalon they feel that their appreciation of the work may be enhanced, or at least contextualized, by the earlier book. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs move on the new work from Jeff Parker and Sandy Jarrell, Meteor Men (Oni Press). While at first they were skeptical of the potential formulaic nature of the narrative — aliens coming to Earth and the resulting aftermath — they’re fascinated by the ways in which Parker complicates conventions to make the story unique. They’re particularly struck by the book’s teenage protagonist, Alden, the complexities of his character, and the circumstances surrounding his link to the extraterrestrials. While the guys disagree as to extents of Parker and Jarrell’s deviation from the genre — Andy feels that the governmental/military response to the aliens is nuanced, while Derek thinks that it’s more predictable and even heavy-handed — they both conclude that Meteor Men presents a different perspective on a popular formula. This is no E.T. Finally, the guys wrap up with what both feel is the highlight of the week, the first issue of Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain’s Punks: The Comic (Image Comics). This has to be one of the most whacked out comics they’re read in a long time, rivaling the craziness and no-holds-barred fun of Ryan Browne’s God Hates Astronauts and Evan Dorkin’s Milk and Cheese. In this first issue of the new ongoing series, we get two short stories — the funniest being the lead off, “Firsts” — a portion of an earlier, self-published Punks comic, and a three-page fun-and-activities section, complete with a card game called Nutpuncher. Andy and Derek laugh their way through the final part of the podcast, and they eagerly look forward to following the future exploits of Dog, Skull, Fist, and Abraham Lincoln. Also, the Two Guys welcome a new Podcast Patron, Tom Mathews, who believes The Comics Alternative does for comics what Sound Opinions does for music. You can’t get much better praise than that! This week on the podcast, Derek and Andy discuss three new titles that range from the profound to the insane. They begin with the new book from Julie Maroh, Skandalon (Arsenal Pulp Press). It’s the story of a French rock star, Tazane, with international appeal and the power to move a vast legion of fans. The book is thesis driven, with Maroh exploring the dynamics, and the costs, of modern celebrity status and its affects on both the personal and collective psyche. Neither of the guys have yet read Maroh’s first graphic novel — and the one for which she’s best known — Blue Is the Warmest Color, but after digesting Skandalon they feel that their appreciation of the work may be enhanced, or at least contextualized, by the earlier book. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs move on the new work from Jeff Parker and Sandy Jarrell, Meteor Men (Oni Press). While at first they were skeptical of the potential formulaic nature of the narrative — aliens coming to Earth and the resulting aftermath — they’re fascinated by the ways in which Parker complicates conventions to make the story unique. They’re particularly struck by the book’s teenage protagonist, Alden, the complexities of his character, and the circumstances surrounding his link to the extraterrestrials. While the guys disagree as to extents of Parker and Jarrell’s deviation from the genre — Andy feels that the governmental/military response to the aliens is nuanced, while Derek thinks that it’s more predictable and even heavy-handed — they both conclude that Meteor Men presents a different perspective on a popular formula. This is no E.T. Finally, the guys wrap up with what both feel is the highlight of the week, the first issue of Joshua Hale Fialkov and Kody Chamberlain’s Punks: The Comic (Image Comics). This has to be one of the most whacked out comics they’re read in a long time, rivaling the craziness and no-holds-barred fun of Ryan Browne’s God Hates Astronauts and Evan Dorkin’s Milk and Cheese. In this first issue of the new ongoing series, we get two short stories — the funniest being the lead off, “Firsts” — a portion of an earlier, self-published Punks comic, and a three-page fun-and-activities section, complete with a card game called Nutpuncher. Andy and Derek laugh their way through the final part of the podcast, and they eagerly look forward to following the future exploits of Dog, Skull, Fist, and Abraham Lincoln. Also, the Two Guys welcome a new Podcast Patron, Tom Mathews, who believes The Comics Alternative does for comics what Sound Opinions does for music. You can’t get much better praise than that!

]]> 4558 no On Location - Discussing Horror Comics at Collected Comics and Games in Plano http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation4.mp3 It’s time for another visit to Derek’s local comics shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for an on-location podcast with customers and employees. This being the month of Halloween, the crew is talking about horror comics. The shop’s manager, Freddy Riuz, is BIG fan of the genre, so he helps to lead the talk on horror comics (and movies) in discerning ways. Joining in are customers Craig, Nick, Garrett, and Shea. Among the titles they discuss are Spread, Wytches, Nailbiter, Caliban, Ghosted, Through the Woods, George Romero’s Empire of the Dead, and of course, The Walking Dead. Don’t get spooked out. Just sit back and enjoy the terrifying talk from not-quite-so-undead fans. Fri, 17 Oct 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The horror! The horror! It’s time for another visit to Derek’s local comics shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for an on-location podcast with customers and employees. This being the month of Halloween, the crew is talking about horror comics. The shop’s manager, Freddy Riuz, is BIG fan of the genre, so he helps to lead the talk on horror comics (and movies) in discerning ways. Joining in are customers Craig, Nick, Garrett, and Shea. Among the titles they discuss are Spread, Wytches, Nailbiter, Caliban, Ghosted, Through the Woods, George Romero’s Empire of the Dead, and of course, The Walking Dead. Don’t get spooked out. Just sit back and enjoy the terrifying talk from not-quite-so-undead fans. It’s time for another visit to Derek’s local comics shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for an on-location podcast with customers and employees. This being the month of Halloween, the crew is talking about horror comics. The shop’s manager, Freddy Riuz, is BIG fan of the genre, so he helps to lead the talk on horror comics (and movies) in discerning ways. Joining in are customers Craig, Nick, Garrett, and Shea. Among the titles they discuss are Spread, Wytches, Nailbiter, Caliban, Ghosted, Through the Woods, George Romero’s Empire of the Dead, and of course, The Walking Dead. Don’t get spooked out. Just sit back and enjoy the terrifying talk from not-quite-so-undead fans.

]]> 3555 no Episode 105 - Reviews of Henry & Glenn Forever & Ever, Masterful Marks, and Wytches #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-105.mp3 On this week’s episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek explore the worlds of hardcore cohabitation, biographical brilliance, and wood witches. They begin with Henry & Glenn Forever & Ever, the new collection from Tom Neely and friends (Microcosm Publishing). This follows Neely’s original minicomic Henry & Glenn Forever and collects the four-issue miniseries published between 2013 and 2014. For those unfamiliar, this is a situational satire of metal rockers Henry Rollings and Glenn Danzig, working from the premise of their love for one another and placing their relationship in a variety of different sitcom-like scenarios. Tom Neely created the original, and more narratively substantive, stories of Henry and Glenn, but he has many of his artist friends — such as Mark Randolph, Ed Luce, Johnny Ryan, and Noah Van Sciver — contribute short pieces as well. Some stories are better than others, but the Two Guys conclude that the book as a whole is hilariously fun. Next, Derek and Andy turn to Masterful Marks: Cartoonists Who Changed the World, a collection of graphic biographies edited by Monte Beauchamp (Simon and Schuster). In fact, they spend a good chunk of this week’s show talking about this book…and there is a lot to discuss. It’s composed of sixteen short comics that present the lives of such luminaries as Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Jack Kirby, Winsor McCay, Charles Schulz, Walt Disney, Osamu Tezuka, Chas Addams, Dr. Seuss, and Hergé. These biographies are written and drawn by impressive creators in their own rights, such as Nora Krug, Arnold Roth, Frank Stack, and Denis Kitchen. The guys discuss most of these biographies, but they particularly highlight two of their favorites: Peter Kuper’s take on Harvey Kurtzman and Drew Friedman’s look at Robert Crumb. In fact, the latter is not so much a biography of the legendary artist as much as it is a story of Friedman’s experiences and relationship with Crumb. Much like Kuper’s, this is more than a straight-out biography. It’s a personal and even self-reflexive narrative. Finally, the Two Guys get all excited about the new series from Scott Snyder and Jock, Wytches (Image Comics). They point out that while this could have easily been a Vertigo title, Snyder is apparently wanting to try his indie chops over at Image with a new ongoing series. And he and Jock have started off impressively! What makes the first issue of Wytches so engaging is its elaborate setup and its emersion in the everyday. Both Andy and Derek mention how the world that Snyder sets up reminds them of their own childhoods and the kind of creepy wooded areas that fueled their own imaginations. They’re both on board with this new title, and they hope — they expect — it to be another in Image’s growing line of perennials, following the likes of The Walking Dead, Saga, and Manhattan Projects. Wed, 15 Oct 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Pledged is pledged” On this week’s episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek explore the worlds of hardcore cohabitation, biographical brilliance, and wood witches. They begin with Henry & Glenn Forever & Ever, the new collection from Tom Neely and friends (Microcosm Publishing). This follows Neely’s original minicomic Henry & Glenn Forever and collects the four-issue miniseries published between 2013 and 2014. For those unfamiliar, this is a situational satire of metal rockers Henry Rollings and Glenn Danzig, working from the premise of their love for one another and placing their relationship in a variety of different sitcom-like scenarios. Tom Neely created the original, and more narratively substantive, stories of Henry and Glenn, but he has many of his artist friends — such as Mark Randolph, Ed Luce, Johnny Ryan, and Noah Van Sciver — contribute short pieces as well. Some stories are better than others, but the Two Guys conclude that the book as a whole is hilariously fun. Next, Derek and Andy turn to Masterful Marks: Cartoonists Who Changed the World, a collection of graphic biographies edited by Monte Beauchamp (Simon and Schuster). In fact, they spend a good chunk of this week’s show talking about this book…and there is a lot to discuss. It’s composed of sixteen short comics that present the lives of such luminaries as Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Jack Kirby, Winsor McCay, Charles Schulz, Walt Disney, Osamu Tezuka, Chas Addams, Dr. Seuss, and Hergé. These biographies are written and drawn by impressive creators in their own rights, such as Nora Krug, Arnold Roth, Frank Stack, and Denis Kitchen. The guys discuss most of these biographies, but they particularly highlight two of their favorites: Peter Kuper’s take on Harvey Kurtzman and Drew Friedman’s look at Robert Crumb. In fact, the latter is not so much a biography of the legendary artist as much as it is a story of Friedman’s experiences and relationship with Crumb. Much like Kuper’s, this is more than a straight-out biography. It’s a personal and even self-reflexive narrative. Finally, the Two Guys get all excited about the new series from Scott Snyder and Jock, Wytches (Image Comics). They point out that while this could have easily been a Vertigo title, Snyder is apparently wanting to try his indie chops over at Image with a new ongoing series. And he and Jock have started off impressively! What makes the first issue of Wytches so engaging is its elaborate setup and its emersion in the everyday. Both Andy and Derek mention how the world that Snyder sets up reminds them of their own childhoods and the kind of creepy wooded areas that fueled their own imaginations. They’re both on board with this new title, and they hope — they expect — it to be another in Image’s growing line of perennials, following the likes of The Walking Dead, Saga, and Manhattan Projects. On this week’s episode of the podcast, Andy and Derek explore the worlds of hardcore cohabitation, biographical brilliance, and wood witches. They begin with Henry & Glenn Forever & Ever, the new collection from Tom Neely and friends (Microcosm Publishing). This follows Neely’s original minicomic Henry & Glenn Forever and collects the four-issue miniseries published between 2013 and 2014. For those unfamiliar, this is a situational satire of metal rockers Henry Rollings and Glenn Danzig, working from the premise of their love for one another and placing their relationship in a variety of different sitcom-like scenarios. Tom Neely created the original, and more narratively substantive, stories of Henry and Glenn, but he has many of his artist friends — such as Mark Randolph, Ed Luce, Johnny Ryan, and Noah Van Sciver — contribute short pieces as well. Some stories are better than others, but the Two Guys conclude that the book as a whole is hilariously fun. Next, Derek and Andy turn to Masterful Marks: Cartoonists Who Changed the World, a collection of graphic biographies edited by Monte Beauchamp (Simon and Schuster). In fact, they spend a good chunk of this week’s show talking about this book…and there is a lot to discuss. It’s composed of sixteen short comics that present the lives of such luminaries as Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Jack Kirby, Winsor McCay, Charles Schulz, Walt Disney, Osamu Tezuka, Chas Addams, Dr. Seuss, and Hergé. These biographies are written and drawn by impressive creators in their own rights, such as Nora Krug, Arnold Roth, Frank Stack, and Denis Kitchen. The guys discuss most of these biographies, but they particularly highlight two of their favorites: Peter Kuper’s take on Harvey Kurtzman and Drew Friedman’s look at Robert Crumb. In fact, the latter is not so much a biography of the legendary artist as much as it is a story of Friedman’s experiences and relationship with Crumb. Much like Kuper’s, this is more than a straight-out biography. It’s a personal and even self-reflexive narrative. Finally, the Two Guys get all excited about the new series from Scott Snyder and Jock, Wytches (Image Comics). They point out that while this could have easily been a Vertigo title, Snyder is apparently wanting to try his indie chops over at Image with a new ongoing series. And he and Jock have started off impressively! What makes the first issue of Wytches so engaging is its elaborate setup and its emersion in the everyday. Both Andy and Derek mention how the world that Snyder sets up reminds them of their own childhoods and the kind of creepy wooded areas that fueled their own imaginations. They’re both on board with this new title, and they hope — they expect — it to be another in Image’s growing line of perennials, following the likes of The Walking Dead, Saga, and Manhattan Projects.

]]> 6413 no On Location - “Comics Podcasting and Blogging” Panel http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation3.mp3 In the third of three podcasts shows recorded at this year’s Wizard World Austin Comic Con, here is a recording of the panel “Comics Podcasting and Blogging,” one organized by Derek and John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast. Joining them was Cole Houston of The Rantcor Pit: The JCU Star Wars Podcast and the Hey Kids, Comics! podcast. This discussion was devoted to the ins and outs of podcasting and blogging about comics and comic culture: how to get started, how to sustain content, how to address challenges, and how to ensure for future success. Each participant comes to comics podcasting from different perspectives — John is an old hat at this and has been podcasting since 2007, Cole juggles multiple podcasts, and (of course) The Comics Alternative looks specifically at alternative, indie, and non-superhero titles — and each shared advice, suggestions, and hard-won experience. There were a number of questions from the audience, and these were primarily about the basics of getting a podcast going and what to actually discuss on your show. They covered a lot of ground during the panel, chock-full with info. This is the kind of episode that should inspire future podcasters! Mon, 13 Oct 2014 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Getting Hip to Podcasting In the third of three podcasts shows recorded at this year’s Wizard World Austin Comic Con, here is a recording of the panel “Comics Podcasting and Blogging,” one organized by Derek and John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast. Joining them was Cole Houston of The Rantcor Pit: The JCU Star Wars Podcast and the Hey Kids, Comics! podcast. This discussion was devoted to the ins and outs of podcasting and blogging about comics and comic culture: how to get started, how to sustain content, how to address challenges, and how to ensure for future success. Each participant comes to comics podcasting from different perspectives — John is an old hat at this and has been podcasting since 2007, Cole juggles multiple podcasts, and (of course) The Comics Alternative looks specifically at alternative, indie, and non-superhero titles — and each shared advice, suggestions, and hard-won experience. There were a number of questions from the audience, and these were primarily about the basics of getting a podcast going and what to actually discuss on your show. They covered a lot of ground during the panel, chock-full with info. This is the kind of episode that should inspire future podcasters! In the third of three podcasts shows recorded at this year’s Wizard World Austin Comic Con, here is a recording of the panel “Comics Podcasting and Blogging,” one organized by Derek and John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast. Joining them was Cole Houston of The Rantcor Pit: The JCU Star Wars Podcast and the Hey Kids, Comics! podcast. This discussion was devoted to the ins and outs of podcasting and blogging about comics and comic culture: how to get started, how to sustain content, how to address challenges, and how to ensure for future success. Each participant comes to comics podcasting from different perspectives — John is an old hat at this and has been podcasting since 2007, Cole juggles multiple podcasts, and (of course) The Comics Alternative looks specifically at alternative, indie, and non-superhero titles — and each shared advice, suggestions, and hard-won experience. There were a number of questions from the audience, and these were primarily about the basics of getting a podcast going and what to actually discuss on your show. They covered a lot of ground during the panel, chock-full with info. This is the kind of episode that should inspire future podcasters!

]]> 3485 no Episode 104 - Reviews of The Rise of Aurora West, Escapo, and Eyesight http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-104.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) start off with a veritable love-fest of Paul Pope comics. They begin by looking at two recent titles, The Rise of Aurora West (First Second) and Escapo (Z2 Comics). The first, co-written with J.T. Petty and with art by David Rubín, is a follow up to last year's Battling Boy, although it is not a sequel to that earlier narrative, but a prequel. Here we are introduced to the exploits of the daughter, and young apprentice, of the adventuresome Haggard West. We see Aurora's early development, the origins of Acropolis' monster problem, and the full extent of Haggard's crime-fighting acumen. All of this is presented in Rubín's action-soaked black-and-white illustrations that, while distinct from Pope's style, reads as a visual relative to the earlier Battling Boy. Next, Derek and Andy discuss Escapo, stories and art that were originally created between 1996 and 1998 -- early Paul Pope, reminiscent of what you'll find in One Trick Rip-Off + Deep Cuts -- but now is presented in a beautiful hardbound edition in the tradition of the French bande dessinée format. The two stories that make up the core of the book surround the adventures of Vic, a young circus performer who is a modern-day Houdini, able to escape from any trap that is laid out for him, no matter how elaborate. In this way, and much like Aurora West, Vic is an adventure hero. The book includes sketches, other bonus material, and Escapo-related pin-up work from a variety of illustrators. The art is given new life through the efforts of Shay Plummer, whose vibrant colors complement the daredevil tone of Pope's story. The guys then go in an entirely different -- and more humorously disturbing -- direction with a comic that is completely new to them. Eyesight, written by Callum MacKenzie and drawn by Alex Hood, is a self-published minicomic that displays the entire DIY effect. Andy and Derek discuss issues #1-3, and they're not sure if they should laugh out loud, stand in bewilderment, or run away in unmitigated terror. This has to be one of the creepiest comics the guys have read lately. But it's a good kind of creepy, the kind that has you coming back for more...after you've cleaned your britches. And it's definitely a work Derek and Andy think their listeners should run out and get. In fact, you can support the creators by visiting their website, http://eyesightcomix.com, and getting your copy of Eyesight. Wed, 08 Oct 2014 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Britches This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) start off with a veritable love-fest of Paul Pope comics. They begin by looking at two recent titles, The Rise of Aurora West (First Second) and Escapo (Z2 Comics). The first, co-written with J.T. Petty and with art by David Rubín, is a follow up to last year's Battling Boy, although it is not a sequel to that earlier narrative, but a prequel. Here we are introduced to the exploits of the daughter, and young apprentice, of the adventuresome Haggard West. We see Aurora's early development, the origins of Acropolis' monster problem, and the full extent of Haggard's crime-fighting acumen. All of this is presented in Rubín's action-soaked black-and-white illustrations that, while distinct from Pope's style, reads as a visual relative to the earlier Battling Boy. Next, Derek and Andy discuss Escapo, stories and art that were originally created between 1996 and 1998 -- early Paul Pope, reminiscent of what you'll find in One Trick Rip-Off + Deep Cuts -- but now is presented in a beautiful hardbound edition in the tradition of the French bande dessinée format. The two stories that make up the core of the book surround the adventures of Vic, a young circus performer who is a modern-day Houdini, able to escape from any trap that is laid out for him, no matter how elaborate. In this way, and much like Aurora West, Vic is an adventure hero. The book includes sketches, other bonus material, and Escapo-related pin-up work from a variety of illustrators. The art is given new life through the efforts of Shay Plummer, whose vibrant colors complement the daredevil tone of Pope's story. The guys then go in an entirely different -- and more humorously disturbing -- direction with a comic that is completely new to them. Eyesight, written by Callum MacKenzie and drawn by Alex Hood, is a self-published minicomic that displays the entire DIY effect. Andy and Derek discuss issues #1-3, and they're not sure if they should laugh out loud, stand in bewilderment, or run away in unmitigated terror. This has to be one of the creepiest comics the guys have read lately. But it's a good kind of creepy, the kind that has you coming back for more...after you've cleaned your britches. And it's definitely a work Derek and Andy think their listeners should run out and get. In fact, you can support the creators by visiting their website, http://eyesightcomix.com, and getting your copy of Eyesight. This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) start off with a veritable love-fest of Paul Pope comics. They begin by looking at two recent titles, The Rise of Aurora West (First Second) and Escapo (Z2 Comics). The first, co-written with J.T. Petty and with art by David Rubín, is a follow up to last year's Battling Boy, although it is not a sequel to that earlier narrative, but a prequel. Here we are introduced to the exploits of the daughter, and young apprentice, of the adventuresome Haggard West. We see Aurora's early development, the origins of Acropolis' monster problem, and the full extent of Haggard's crime-fighting acumen. All of this is presented in Rubín's action-soaked black-and-white illustrations that, while distinct from Pope's style, reads as a visual relative to the earlier Battling Boy. Next, Derek and Andy discuss Escapo, stories and art that were originally created between 1996 and 1998 -- early Paul Pope, reminiscent of what you'll find in One Trick Rip-Off + Deep Cuts -- but now is presented in a beautiful hardbound edition in the tradition of the French bande dessinée format. The two stories that make up the core of the book surround the adventures of Vic, a young circus performer who is a modern-day Houdini, able to escape from any trap that is laid out for him, no matter how elaborate. In this way, and much like Aurora West, Vic is an adventure hero. The book includes sketches, other bonus material, and Escapo-related pin-up work from a variety of illustrators. The art is given new life through the efforts of Shay Plummer, whose vibrant colors complement the daredevil tone of Pope's story. The guys then go in an entirely different -- and more humorously disturbing -- direction with a comic that is completely new to them. Eyesight, written by Callum MacKenzie and drawn by Alex Hood, is a self-published minicomic that displays the entire DIY effect. Andy and Derek discuss issues #1-3, and they're not sure if they should laugh out loud, stand in bewilderment, or run away in unmitigated terror. This has to be one of the creepiest comics the guys have read lately. But it's a good kind of creepy, the kind that has you coming back for more...after you've cleaned your britches. And it's definitely a work Derek and Andy think their listeners should run out and get. In fact, you can support the creators by visiting their website, http://eyesightcomix.com, and getting your copy of Eyesight.

]]> 4822 yes On Location - “Why Teach Batman in College?: Comics and Academia” http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation2.mp3 In the second of three podcasts shows recorded at this year’s Wizard World Austin Comic Con, here is a recording of the roundtable discussion held on Saturday evening, “Why Teach Batman in College?: Comics and Academia.” Derek moderated the panel, and joining him on the roundtable were Sam Canon (from the University of Texas at Austin), Aaron Delwiche (Trinity University), Andrew Friedenthal (St. Edward’s University), and Jackson Ayers (Texas A&M University-San Antonio). They began by discussing the crossroads of academia and comics culture — and how their own love of comics has informed, and has been changed by, their work as comics scholars — and then quickly moved into such topics as the role of fandom in comics scholarship, the use of superhero comics in the classroom, comics as a literacy tool, the problems of canon formation, teaching the formal system of comics, the use of comics as cultural markers, comic genres and pedagogy, and approaching history and politics through comics. The panelists covered a broad range of topics, and the audience chimed in with questions and commentary that helped guide the discussions. Tue, 07 Oct 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Hey! Teachers! Leave them kids alone!” In the second of three podcasts shows recorded at this year’s Wizard World Austin Comic Con, here is a recording of the roundtable discussion held on Saturday evening, “Why Teach Batman in College?: Comics and Academia.” Derek moderated the panel, and joining him on the roundtable were Sam Canon (from the University of Texas at Austin), Aaron Delwiche (Trinity University), Andrew Friedenthal (St. Edward’s University), and Jackson Ayers (Texas A&M University-San Antonio). They began by discussing the crossroads of academia and comics culture — and how their own love of comics has informed, and has been changed by, their work as comics scholars — and then quickly moved into such topics as the role of fandom in comics scholarship, the use of superhero comics in the classroom, comics as a literacy tool, the problems of canon formation, teaching the formal system of comics, the use of comics as cultural markers, comic genres and pedagogy, and approaching history and politics through comics. The panelists covered a broad range of topics, and the audience chimed in with questions and commentary that helped guide the discussions. In the second of three podcasts shows recorded at this year’s Wizard World Austin Comic Con, here is a recording of the roundtable discussion held on Saturday evening, “Why Teach Batman in College?: Comics and Academia.” Derek moderated the panel, and joining him on the roundtable were Sam Canon (from the University of Texas at Austin), Aaron Delwiche (Trinity University), Andrew Friedenthal (St. Edward’s University), and Jackson Ayers (Texas A&M University-San Antonio). They began by discussing the crossroads of academia and comics culture — and how their own love of comics has informed, and has been changed by, their work as comics scholars — and then quickly moved into such topics as the role of fandom in comics scholarship, the use of superhero comics in the classroom, comics as a literacy tool, the problems of canon formation, teaching the formal system of comics, the use of comics as cultural markers, comic genres and pedagogy, and approaching history and politics through comics. The panelists covered a broad range of topics, and the audience chimed in with questions and commentary that helped guide the discussions.

]]> 5601 no On Location - Talking with Creators at Wizard World Austin Comic Con http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_OnLocation1.mp3 This past weekend Derek headed to the Wizard World Austin Comic Con, and there he was able to interview several creators and publishers populating the con’s Artist Alley. His guests included Brandon Seifert, the writer of Witch Doctor; Peyton Freeman and Brett Williams, the creators of the new comic The Box; Jason “Java” Croft, the publisher of Bachelor Pad Magazine; Dan Parent, renowned artist at Archie Comics; Austin and Adam Tinius, the creative force behind Bogus Books; Jamie Kinosian, author of the webcomic Gods in New York; Russ Manning Award winner Kevin Maguire; the general manager of Zenescope, Jennifer Bermel; and Jason Bienven, the creator behind the successful Kickstarter campaign, The Kingdom. These are fun and informative interviews, the kind of thing one hopes for when attending a con. Mon, 06 Oct 2014 12:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal From Artist Alley to You This past weekend Derek headed to the Wizard World Austin Comic Con, and there he was able to interview several creators and publishers populating the con’s Artist Alley. His guests included Brandon Seifert, the writer of Witch Doctor; Peyton Freeman and Brett Williams, the creators of the new comic The Box; Jason “Java” Croft, the publisher of Bachelor Pad Magazine; Dan Parent, renowned artist at Archie Comics; Austin and Adam Tinius, the creative force behind Bogus Books; Jamie Kinosian, author of the webcomic Gods in New York; Russ Manning Award winner Kevin Maguire; the general manager of Zenescope, Jennifer Bermel; and Jason Bienven, the creator behind the successful Kickstarter campaign, The Kingdom. These are fun and informative interviews, the kind of thing one hopes for when attending a con. This past weekend Derek headed to the Wizard World Austin Comic Con, and there he was able to interview several creators and publishers populating the con’s Artist Alley. His guests included Brandon Seifert, the writer of Witch Doctor; Peyton Freeman and Brett Williams, the creators of the new comic The Box; Jason “Java” Croft, the publisher of Bachelor Pad Magazine; Dan Parent, renowned artist at Archie Comics; Austin and Adam Tinius, the creative force behind Bogus Books; Jamie Kinosian, author of the webcomic Gods in New York; Russ Manning Award winner Kevin Maguire; the general manager of Zenescope, Jennifer Bermel; and Jason Bienven, the creator behind the successful Kickstarter campaign, The Kingdom. These are fun and informative interviews, the kind of thing one hopes for when attending a con.

]]> 4036 no Episode 103 - The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-103.mp3 It’s the first of the month, and that means it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the month’s Previews catalog. There are a number of things that catch their attention from the October solicits…that is, if they can actually see the catalog. Derek wasn’t able to get a copy of Previews in time for the podcast recording (his copy from DSBS was in the mail), so he had to rely on the uninformative order form found on the PREVIEWSWorld website. But Andy, who does have a copy, helps him by describing the visuals. Together they highlight upcoming releases from Dark Horse (Oink: Heaven’s Butcher) DC/Vertigo (Wolf Moon #1, North 40, and the final issue of Unwritten), IDW (Garbage Pail Kids Comic Book Puke-Tacular #1 and Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn), Image Comics (Bitch Planet #1 and Graveyard Shift #1), Marvel (Miracleman Annual #1), Alternative Comics (Labyrinthectomy/Luncheonette), BOOM!! Studios (Abigail and the Snowman #1), Dynamite (Shaft #1), Fantagraphics (Vapor, Run Like Crazy Run Like Hell, and Ofelia), First Second (The Sculptor), and Top Shelf (Strong Female Protagonist). So go grab your copy of the October Previews — unlike Derek — pour yourself a favorite beverage, and cuddle up with the Two Guys as they shepherd you through the wonderful world of comics solicits! Wed, 01 Oct 2014 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Verbing the Absolute It’s the first of the month, and that means it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the month’s Previews catalog. There are a number of things that catch their attention from the October solicits…that is, if they can actually see the catalog. Derek wasn’t able to get a copy of Previews in time for the podcast recording (his copy from DSBS was in the mail), so he had to rely on the uninformative order form found on the PREVIEWSWorld website. But Andy, who does have a copy, helps him by describing the visuals. Together they highlight upcoming releases from Dark Horse (Oink: Heaven’s Butcher) DC/Vertigo (Wolf Moon #1, North 40, and the final issue of Unwritten), IDW (Garbage Pail Kids Comic Book Puke-Tacular #1 and Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn), Image Comics (Bitch Planet #1 and Graveyard Shift #1), Marvel (Miracleman Annual #1), Alternative Comics (Labyrinthectomy/Luncheonette), BOOM!! Studios (Abigail and the Snowman #1), Dynamite (Shaft #1), Fantagraphics (Vapor, Run Like Crazy Run Like Hell, and Ofelia), First Second (The Sculptor), and Top Shelf (Strong Female Protagonist). So go grab your copy of the October Previews — unlike Derek — pour yourself a favorite beverage, and cuddle up with the Two Guys as they shepherd you through the wonderful world of comics solicits! It’s the first of the month, and that means it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the month’s Previews catalog. There are a number of things that catch their attention from the October solicits…that is, if they can actually see the catalog. Derek wasn’t able to get a copy of Previews in time for the podcast recording (his copy from DSBS was in the mail), so he had to rely on the uninformative order form found on the PREVIEWSWorld website. But Andy, who does have a copy, helps him by describing the visuals. Together they highlight upcoming releases from Dark Horse (Oink: Heaven’s Butcher) DC/Vertigo (Wolf Moon #1, North 40, and the final issue of Unwritten), IDW (Garbage Pail Kids Comic Book Puke-Tacular #1 and Corto Maltese: Under the Sign of Capricorn), Image Comics (Bitch Planet #1 and Graveyard Shift #1), Marvel (Miracleman Annual #1), Alternative Comics (Labyrinthectomy/Luncheonette), BOOM!! Studios (Abigail and the Snowman #1), Dynamite (Shaft #1), Fantagraphics (Vapor, Run Like Crazy Run Like Hell, and Ofelia), First Second (The Sculptor), and Top Shelf (Strong Female Protagonist). So go grab your copy of the October Previews — unlike Derek — pour yourself a favorite beverage, and cuddle up with the Two Guys as they shepherd you through the wonderful world of comics solicits!

]]> 5473 no Episode 102 - Reviews of Doctors, Annihilator #1, and Stumptown: The Case of the Jack of Clubs #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-102.mp3 This week, Derek and Andy W. discuss three just-released (or soon-to-be-released) titles. First, they look at Dash Shaw's new book, Doctors (Fantagraphics). They begin by comparing it to some of Shaw's other recent work, specifically last year's New School and the miniseries Cosplayers, especially in his unique use of colors. At times the color patterns are clearly a part of the story, contributing to the meaning-making that is going on, but at other times they are used more subtly and with less apparent intentions. But what fascinates the Two Guys the most is the very premise of Doctors. It's a narrative that raises some profound questions, and it's one that might even work well in other media, such as adapted for television. Next, the guys discuss the new series from Grant Morrison and Frazier Irving, Annihilator (Legendary). In this first issue, the creators set up an intriguing premise that is pure Morrison: a story concerning a writer, where his reality and his creation ultimately collide. In Annihilator you'll find black holes, drug-addled reality, orgies, and bad haircuts, and all cinematically illustrated by Irving. Finally, Andy and Derek look at the latest installment in Greg Rucka's Stumptown series, subtitled The Case of the Jack of Clubs (Oni Press). This follows the previous two volumes -- Stumptown and Stumptown: The Case of the Baby in the Velvet Case -- which were illustrated by Matthew Southworth. This time around, Rucka is working with Justin Greenwood, and the effect is quite different. Greenwood's is a brighter, less gritty style of art, and it lends itself well to the many soccer scenes that make up this first issue. In fact, the guys are uncertain about the large amount of page space devoted to the story's setup, largely revolving around soccer, and wonder if perhaps the exposition is a bit too much. Nonetheless, they trust Greg Rucka as a writer and look forward to big payoff in this third volume of his Stumptown series. Wed, 24 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Death, Holes, and Soccer This week, Derek and Andy W. discuss three just-released (or soon-to-be-released) titles. First, they look at Dash Shaw's new book, Doctors (Fantagraphics). They begin by comparing it to some of Shaw's other recent work, specifically last year's New School and the miniseries Cosplayers, especially in his unique use of colors. At times the color patterns are clearly a part of the story, contributing to the meaning-making that is going on, but at other times they are used more subtly and with less apparent intentions. But what fascinates the Two Guys the most is the very premise of Doctors. It's a narrative that raises some profound questions, and it's one that might even work well in other media, such as adapted for television. Next, the guys discuss the new series from Grant Morrison and Frazier Irving, Annihilator (Legendary). In this first issue, the creators set up an intriguing premise that is pure Morrison: a story concerning a writer, where his reality and his creation ultimately collide. In Annihilator you'll find black holes, drug-addled reality, orgies, and bad haircuts, and all cinematically illustrated by Irving. Finally, Andy and Derek look at the latest installment in Greg Rucka's Stumptown series, subtitled The Case of the Jack of Clubs (Oni Press). This follows the previous two volumes -- Stumptown and Stumptown: The Case of the Baby in the Velvet Case -- which were illustrated by Matthew Southworth. This time around, Rucka is working with Justin Greenwood, and the effect is quite different. Greenwood's is a brighter, less gritty style of art, and it lends itself well to the many soccer scenes that make up this first issue. In fact, the guys are uncertain about the large amount of page space devoted to the story's setup, largely revolving around soccer, and wonder if perhaps the exposition is a bit too much. Nonetheless, they trust Greg Rucka as a writer and look forward to big payoff in this third volume of his Stumptown series. This week, Derek and Andy W. discuss three just-released (or soon-to-be-released) titles. First, they look at Dash Shaw's new book, Doctors (Fantagraphics). They begin by comparing it to some of Shaw's other recent work, specifically last year's New School and the miniseries Cosplayers, especially in his unique use of colors. At times the color patterns are clearly a part of the story, contributing to the meaning-making that is going on, but at other times they are used more subtly and with less apparent intentions. But what fascinates the Two Guys the most is the very premise of Doctors. It's a narrative that raises some profound questions, and it's one that might even work well in other media, such as adapted for television. Next, the guys discuss the new series from Grant Morrison and Frazier Irving, Annihilator (Legendary). In this first issue, the creators set up an intriguing premise that is pure Morrison: a story concerning a writer, where his reality and his creation ultimately collide. In Annihilator you'll find black holes, drug-addled reality, orgies, and bad haircuts, and all cinematically illustrated by Irving. Finally, Andy and Derek look at the latest installment in Greg Rucka's Stumptown series, subtitled The Case of the Jack of Clubs (Oni Press). This follows the previous two volumes -- Stumptown and Stumptown: The Case of the Baby in the Velvet Case -- which were illustrated by Matthew Southworth. This time around, Rucka is working with Justin Greenwood, and the effect is quite different. Greenwood's is a brighter, less gritty style of art, and it lends itself well to the many soccer scenes that make up this first issue. In fact, the guys are uncertain about the large amount of page space devoted to the story's setup, largely revolving around soccer, and wonder if perhaps the exposition is a bit too much. Nonetheless, they trust Greg Rucka as a writer and look forward to big payoff in this third volume of his Stumptown series.

]]> 5930 no Special - A Roundtable Discussion on Jewish Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Special1.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, and just in time for Rosh Hashanah, Derek pulls together a variety of comics scholars for a lively roundtable discussion of Jewish comics. Joining him on the panel are Danny Fingeroth (author of Disguised as Clark Kent: Jews, Comics, and the Creation of the Superhero and Superman on the Couch: What Superheroes Really Tell Us about Ourselves and Society), Steven E. Tabachnick (author of The Quest for Jewish Belief and Identity in the Graphic Novel and editor of Teaching the Graphic Novel), Harry Brod (author of Superman Is Jewish?: How Comic Book Superheroes Came to Serve Truth, Justice, and The Jewish-American Way), and Steven M. Bergson (editor of The Jewish Comix Anthology). The conversation begins with a series of questions to help define "Jewish comics" -- What makes a comic "Jewish"? What exactly is Jewish content? Does the ethnic background of the creator matter? Can a non-Jew write a Jewish comic? -- the answers to which are mostly left open-ended. They also spend a lot of time discussing the history of comics, in the United States and elsewhere, and how Jews contributed greatly to the medium. Among the many topics they cover are superheroes and Jews, immigrant narratives, trauma and the Holocaust, comics and religion, adapting the Hebrew Bible, and tales of assimilation. They even come up with a sample syllabus or "wish list" of comic-book series and graphic novels that could be used in a class specifically devoted to Jewish comics. Mon, 22 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal L'Shana Tova On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, and just in time for Rosh Hashanah, Derek pulls together a variety of comics scholars for a lively roundtable discussion of Jewish comics. Joining him on the panel are Danny Fingeroth (author of Disguised as Clark Kent: Jews, Comics, and the Creation of the Superhero and Superman on the Couch: What Superheroes Really Tell Us about Ourselves and Society), Steven E. Tabachnick (author of The Quest for Jewish Belief and Identity in the Graphic Novel and editor of Teaching the Graphic Novel), Harry Brod (author of Superman Is Jewish?: How Comic Book Superheroes Came to Serve Truth, Justice, and The Jewish-American Way), and Steven M. Bergson (editor of The Jewish Comix Anthology). The conversation begins with a series of questions to help define "Jewish comics" -- What makes a comic "Jewish"? What exactly is Jewish content? Does the ethnic background of the creator matter? Can a non-Jew write a Jewish comic? -- the answers to which are mostly left open-ended. They also spend a lot of time discussing the history of comics, in the United States and elsewhere, and how Jews contributed greatly to the medium. Among the many topics they cover are superheroes and Jews, immigrant narratives, trauma and the Holocaust, comics and religion, adapting the Hebrew Bible, and tales of assimilation. They even come up with a sample syllabus or "wish list" of comic-book series and graphic novels that could be used in a class specifically devoted to Jewish comics. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, and just in time for Rosh Hashanah, Derek pulls together a variety of comics scholars for a lively roundtable discussion of Jewish comics. Joining him on the panel are Danny Fingeroth (author of Disguised as Clark Kent: Jews, Comics, and the Creation of the Superhero and Superman on the Couch: What Superheroes Really Tell Us about Ourselves and Society), Steven E. Tabachnick (author of The Quest for Jewish Belief and Identity in the Graphic Novel and editor of Teaching the Graphic Novel), Harry Brod (author of Superman Is Jewish?: How Comic Book Superheroes Came to Serve Truth, Justice, and The Jewish-American Way), and Steven M. Bergson (editor of The Jewish Comix Anthology). The conversation begins with a series of questions to help define "Jewish comics" -- What makes a comic "Jewish"? What exactly is Jewish content? Does the ethnic background of the creator matter? Can a non-Jew write a Jewish comic? -- the answers to which are mostly left open-ended. They also spend a lot of time discussing the history of comics, in the United States and elsewhere, and how Jews contributed greatly to the medium. Among the many topics they cover are superheroes and Jews, immigrant narratives, trauma and the Holocaust, comics and religion, adapting the Hebrew Bible, and tales of assimilation. They even come up with a sample syllabus or "wish list" of comic-book series and graphic novels that could be used in a class specifically devoted to Jewish comics.

]]> 5834 no Interviews - Gilbert Hernandez http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews26-Hernandez.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy are honored to have as their guest one of their all-time comics heroes, Gilbert Hernandez. They begin the conversation by asking Gilbert about his two new books, Bumperhead (Drawn and Quarterly) and Loverboys (Dark Horse), and then discuss with him his work on Love and Rockets, his Fritz b-movie books, and the sheer volume of his recent output. Much of the conversation, at least in terms of Bumperhead, centers on the more autobiographical side of Gilbert's recent comics, presented most notably in last year's Marble Season. And given their focus on the artist's own life, of course they discuss 1970s rock -- "the Eagles suck" -- the role of punk, and impulsive teenage hormones. The Two Guys are also curious about the place of Loverboy in Gilbert's body of work, asking him if it is a de facto Fritz story -- the character, Mrs. Paz, bears the most distinguishing Luba family trait -- and even a return, of sorts, to the world he created with his Palomar comics. Along the way, they discuss Gilbert's more experimental side (for which he won a 2014 Eisner Award), his penchant for being graphically explicit in terms of sex and violence -- "I don't think of myself as a do-gooder cartoonist. I'm not trying to carry the flag of do-gooderness" -- and, of course, his work with his brothers, Jaime and Mario, on the legendary Love and Rockets series. In fact, during their conversation, Gilbert reveals big news about the future Love and Rockets, something that he hasn't even yet discussed with Fantagraphics, giving The Comics Alternative a scoop that both excites them and catches them completely by surprise. You have to listen to the interview to find out what it is! Fri, 19 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”I don't think of myself as a do-gooder cartoonist” On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy are honored to have as their guest one of their all-time comics heroes, Gilbert Hernandez. They begin the conversation by asking Gilbert about his two new books, Bumperhead (Drawn and Quarterly) and Loverboys (Dark Horse), and then discuss with him his work on Love and Rockets, his Fritz b-movie books, and the sheer volume of his recent output. Much of the conversation, at least in terms of Bumperhead, centers on the more autobiographical side of Gilbert's recent comics, presented most notably in last year's Marble Season. And given their focus on the artist's own life, of course they discuss 1970s rock -- "the Eagles suck" -- the role of punk, and impulsive teenage hormones. The Two Guys are also curious about the place of Loverboy in Gilbert's body of work, asking him if it is a de facto Fritz story -- the character, Mrs. Paz, bears the most distinguishing Luba family trait -- and even a return, of sorts, to the world he created with his Palomar comics. Along the way, they discuss Gilbert's more experimental side (for which he won a 2014 Eisner Award), his penchant for being graphically explicit in terms of sex and violence -- "I don't think of myself as a do-gooder cartoonist. I'm not trying to carry the flag of do-gooderness" -- and, of course, his work with his brothers, Jaime and Mario, on the legendary Love and Rockets series. In fact, during their conversation, Gilbert reveals big news about the future Love and Rockets, something that he hasn't even yet discussed with Fantagraphics, giving The Comics Alternative a scoop that both excites them and catches them completely by surprise. You have to listen to the interview to find out what it is! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy are honored to have as their guest one of their all-time comics heroes, Gilbert Hernandez. They begin the conversation by asking Gilbert about his two new books, Bumperhead (Drawn and Quarterly) and Loverboys (Dark Horse), and then discuss with him his work on Love and Rockets, his Fritz b-movie books, and the sheer volume of his recent output. Much of the conversation, at least in terms of Bumperhead, centers on the more autobiographical side of Gilbert's recent comics, presented most notably in last year's Marble Season. And given their focus on the artist's own life, of course they discuss 1970s rock -- "the Eagles suck" -- the role of punk, and impulsive teenage hormones. The Two Guys are also curious about the place of Loverboy in Gilbert's body of work, asking him if it is a de facto Fritz story -- the character, Mrs. Paz, bears the most distinguishing Luba family trait -- and even a return, of sorts, to the world he created with his Palomar comics. Along the way, they discuss Gilbert's more experimental side (for which he won a 2014 Eisner Award), his penchant for being graphically explicit in terms of sex and violence -- "I don't think of myself as a do-gooder cartoonist. I'm not trying to carry the flag of do-gooderness" -- and, of course, his work with his brothers, Jaime and Mario, on the legendary Love and Rockets series. In fact, during their conversation, Gilbert reveals big news about the future Love and Rockets, something that he hasn't even yet discussed with Fantagraphics, giving The Comics Alternative a scoop that both excites them and catches them completely by surprise. You have to listen to the interview to find out what it is!

]]> 5738 yes Episode 101 - Reviews of Shoplifter, Sugar Skull, and The Names #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-101.mp3 On this week's regular episode, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles. They begin with Shoplifter (Pantheon), the first graphic novel from artist Michael Cho. Among the book's many strengths, the guys highlight Cho's art, the book's monochromatic palette, Cho's narrative pacing, and his characterization. Andy is especially struck by Cho's representation of the advertising world -- having once worked briefly in that field, he can empathize -- and Derek finds the book's greatest strength lying in its handing of social media and interpersonal communications. While there is a danger that the story may veer into the territory of cliched romanticization -- its protagonist, Corinna, wants to get away from it all to become a novelist -- Cho never ultimately takes that direction, making this an impressive debut. Next, the Two Guys look at another new book from Pantheon, Charles Burns's Sugar Skull. This is the third and final work in his recent trilogy, following X'ed Out (2010) and The Hive (2012). On top of Burns's usual brand of surreal storytelling, Sugar Skull can be a challenge for readers who aren't familiar with both of the two previous books, or who have forgotten what's going on in the earlier installments. Andy, for instance, never read The Hive, and the Two Guys compare their reading experiences based on their previous knowledge of Burns's dreamlike narratives. They compare Sugar Skull, and the trilogy as a whole, to Black Hole, the work that Burns is perhaps best known for. Finally, the guys look at the first of a new eight-issue series from Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez, The Names (Vertigo). Both are big fans of Milligan's work, and they aren't disappointed in what they read. This is an engaging mystery set in the cut-throat culture of Wall Street, and the creators do a great job of setting up their premise without giving too much away, naturally drawing readers to the next installments. One of the things Derek and Andy love about this first issue is how Milligan establishes so many strategically placed narrative gaps. For example, who is the Dark Loop, who never make an appearance? And what's the deal with the series' title? What does "The Names" refer to? These are the kinds of questions generated by a good first issue, and the guys are anxious to see how this new Vertigo miniseries pans out. Wed, 17 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Spinoffable” On this week's regular episode, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles. They begin with Shoplifter (Pantheon), the first graphic novel from artist Michael Cho. Among the book's many strengths, the guys highlight Cho's art, the book's monochromatic palette, Cho's narrative pacing, and his characterization. Andy is especially struck by Cho's representation of the advertising world -- having once worked briefly in that field, he can empathize -- and Derek finds the book's greatest strength lying in its handing of social media and interpersonal communications. While there is a danger that the story may veer into the territory of cliched romanticization -- its protagonist, Corinna, wants to get away from it all to become a novelist -- Cho never ultimately takes that direction, making this an impressive debut. Next, the Two Guys look at another new book from Pantheon, Charles Burns's Sugar Skull. This is the third and final work in his recent trilogy, following X'ed Out (2010) and The Hive (2012). On top of Burns's usual brand of surreal storytelling, Sugar Skull can be a challenge for readers who aren't familiar with both of the two previous books, or who have forgotten what's going on in the earlier installments. Andy, for instance, never read The Hive, and the Two Guys compare their reading experiences based on their previous knowledge of Burns's dreamlike narratives. They compare Sugar Skull, and the trilogy as a whole, to Black Hole, the work that Burns is perhaps best known for. Finally, the guys look at the first of a new eight-issue series from Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez, The Names (Vertigo). Both are big fans of Milligan's work, and they aren't disappointed in what they read. This is an engaging mystery set in the cut-throat culture of Wall Street, and the creators do a great job of setting up their premise without giving too much away, naturally drawing readers to the next installments. One of the things Derek and Andy love about this first issue is how Milligan establishes so many strategically placed narrative gaps. For example, who is the Dark Loop, who never make an appearance? And what's the deal with the series' title? What does "The Names" refer to? These are the kinds of questions generated by a good first issue, and the guys are anxious to see how this new Vertigo miniseries pans out. On this week's regular episode, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles. They begin with Shoplifter (Pantheon), the first graphic novel from artist Michael Cho. Among the book's many strengths, the guys highlight Cho's art, the book's monochromatic palette, Cho's narrative pacing, and his characterization. Andy is especially struck by Cho's representation of the advertising world -- having once worked briefly in that field, he can empathize -- and Derek finds the book's greatest strength lying in its handing of social media and interpersonal communications. While there is a danger that the story may veer into the territory of cliched romanticization -- its protagonist, Corinna, wants to get away from it all to become a novelist -- Cho never ultimately takes that direction, making this an impressive debut. Next, the Two Guys look at another new book from Pantheon, Charles Burns's Sugar Skull. This is the third and final work in his recent trilogy, following X'ed Out (2010) and The Hive (2012). On top of Burns's usual brand of surreal storytelling, Sugar Skull can be a challenge for readers who aren't familiar with both of the two previous books, or who have forgotten what's going on in the earlier installments. Andy, for instance, never read The Hive, and the Two Guys compare their reading experiences based on their previous knowledge of Burns's dreamlike narratives. They compare Sugar Skull, and the trilogy as a whole, to Black Hole, the work that Burns is perhaps best known for. Finally, the guys look at the first of a new eight-issue series from Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez, The Names (Vertigo). Both are big fans of Milligan's work, and they aren't disappointed in what they read. This is an engaging mystery set in the cut-throat culture of Wall Street, and the creators do a great job of setting up their premise without giving too much away, naturally drawing readers to the next installments. One of the things Derek and Andy love about this first issue is how Milligan establishes so many strategically placed narrative gaps. For example, who is the Dark Loop, who never make an appearance? And what's the deal with the series' title? What does "The Names" refer to? These are the kinds of questions generated by a good first issue, and the guys are anxious to see how this new Vertigo miniseries pans out.

]]> 5114 no Episode 100.2 - Talking with Creators at the Small Press Expo http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-100-2.mp3 Andy W. heads to this year's Small Press Expo, and there he talks with fifteen different creators about their work, their upcoming projects, and their experiences at the expo. In this special episode, you'll hear brief interviews with James Kochalka, Box Brown, Ellen Linder, Michael DeForge, Renee French, Ed Piskor, Jason Shiga, Nate Powell, Gregory Robison, Evan Dahm, Rachel Dukes, Luke Howard, B. M. Prager, Lucy Bellwood, Noah Van Sciver. There are a lot of fun nuggets packed into this show, so enjoy SPX vicariously through the interview prowess of Andy. Mon, 15 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Small Is Better Andy W. heads to this year's Small Press Expo, and there he talks with fifteen different creators about their work, their upcoming projects, and their experiences at the expo. In this special episode, you'll hear brief interviews with James Kochalka, Box Brown, Ellen Linder, Michael DeForge, Renee French, Ed Piskor, Jason Shiga, Nate Powell, Gregory Robison, Evan Dahm, Rachel Dukes, Luke Howard, B. M. Prager, Lucy Bellwood, Noah Van Sciver. There are a lot of fun nuggets packed into this show, so enjoy SPX vicariously through the interview prowess of Andy. Andy W. heads to this year's Small Press Expo, and there he talks with fifteen different creators about their work, their upcoming projects, and their experiences at the expo. In this special episode, you'll hear brief interviews with James Kochalka, Box Brown, Ellen Linder, Michael DeForge, Renee French, Ed Piskor, Jason Shiga, Nate Powell, Gregory Robison, Evan Dahm, Rachel Dukes, Luke Howard, B. M. Prager, Lucy Bellwood, Noah Van Sciver. There are a lot of fun nuggets packed into this show, so enjoy SPX vicariously through the interview prowess of Andy.

]]> 4498 no Episode 100.1 - On Location at Collected Comics in Plano http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-100-1.mp3 Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for a fun talk with customers and employees. For September, regulars on the on-location shows said that they wanted to discuss fantasy comics. And although some of those fantasy fans weren't in attendance this month, everyone there -- Shea, Nick, and Craig -- nonetheless tried to highlight that theme. At least Derek did, bringing up titles such as Rat Queens, Cerebus, Saga, and Zenescope's Grim Fairy Tales. The problem was that many of those present weren't familiar with or even liked many of these titles, so the talk on those comics was rather truncated. Still, there was a lot to discuss this month, and the conversation ranged from recent new releases to erotic comics to the television series The Strain. At one point, Derek and Shea go off on a tangent about plot, almost turning the discussion into a mini-course on narrative theory. But the discussion always comes back to comics, and there was plenty of that to take them through the episode. Fri, 12 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fantasy? Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for a fun talk with customers and employees. For September, regulars on the on-location shows said that they wanted to discuss fantasy comics. And although some of those fantasy fans weren't in attendance this month, everyone there -- Shea, Nick, and Craig -- nonetheless tried to highlight that theme. At least Derek did, bringing up titles such as Rat Queens, Cerebus, Saga, and Zenescope's Grim Fairy Tales. The problem was that many of those present weren't familiar with or even liked many of these titles, so the talk on those comics was rather truncated. Still, there was a lot to discuss this month, and the conversation ranged from recent new releases to erotic comics to the television series The Strain. At one point, Derek and Shea go off on a tangent about plot, almost turning the discussion into a mini-course on narrative theory. But the discussion always comes back to comics, and there was plenty of that to take them through the episode. Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX, for a fun talk with customers and employees. For September, regulars on the on-location shows said that they wanted to discuss fantasy comics. And although some of those fantasy fans weren't in attendance this month, everyone there -- Shea, Nick, and Craig -- nonetheless tried to highlight that theme. At least Derek did, bringing up titles such as Rat Queens, Cerebus, Saga, and Zenescope's Grim Fairy Tales. The problem was that many of those present weren't familiar with or even liked many of these titles, so the talk on those comics was rather truncated. Still, there was a lot to discuss this month, and the conversation ranged from recent new releases to erotic comics to the television series The Strain. At one point, Derek and Shea go off on a tangent about plot, almost turning the discussion into a mini-course on narrative theory. But the discussion always comes back to comics, and there was plenty of that to take them through the episode.

]]> 5025 no Episode 100 - Reviews of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen III: Century and Hip Hop Family Tree 2 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-100.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs are rappin’ to the beat with two new books that will funk you up. That’s right, DJ D and Kunka Kool spend this episode getting down with Alan Moore and Kevin O’Neill’s The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen III: Century (Top Shelf/Knockabout) and Ed Piskor’s Hip Hop Family Tree 2 (Fantagraphics). First, they look at the latest hardbound collection from Moore and O’Neill, bringing together all three of their previously published Century installments: 1910, 1969, and 2009. The guys spend a good deal of time discussing the kind of readers that come to The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, what their expectations might be, and how some may not be ideal for Moore’s kind of writing. Can those unfamiliar with the previous League stories truly comprehend what’s going on in Century? Can readers unfamiliar with — or uninterested in — literary and pop-cultural marginalia come away from the book with an understanding of what Moore is attempting to do? These are some of the questions Andy and Derek discuss, and they recommend that it wouldn’t be a bad idea for readers to come to Century with annotations readily at hand. (Two great online sources for these are Jess Nevin’s annotations website as well as postings by the Mindless Ones.) Next, the guys discuss Ed Piskor’s latest volume of Hip Hop Family Tree. This second book covers the scene from 1981-1983, and it picks up right where last year’s first volume left off. Among other highlights, the guys talk about Piskor’s take on Sylvia Robinson and Sugar Hill Records, the evolution of Run-DMC, the resistance of many rappers to put their efforts on vinyl, the significance of Charlie Ahearn’s film Wild Style, and the role Fab Five Freddy played in bringing together uptown and downtown cultures. They specifically focus on Piskor’s art and the way he tells his story. Hip Hop Family Tree is a series of anecdotes and ongoing storylines, first published on Boing Boing, that may appear fragmented at first, but a careful reading reveals an interconnectedness that makes for an engaging history. And the way that Piskor represents key players in early hip hop culture  (e.g., Afrika Bambbataa, Melle Mel, Russell Simmons, Mr. Magic, Lonzo Williams, and Rick Rubin) is both revealing and humorous. Whether or not you’re a fan of hip hop — Andy is, Derek really isn’t — Hip Hop Family Tree is a series you definitely have to check out. Wed, 10 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “This is a nipple-rich book” This week the Two Guys with PhDs are rappin’ to the beat with two new books that will funk you up. That’s right, DJ D and Kunka Kool spend this episode getting down with Alan Moore and Kevin O’Neill’s The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen III: Century (Top Shelf/Knockabout) and Ed Piskor’s Hip Hop Family Tree 2 (Fantagraphics). First, they look at the latest hardbound collection from Moore and O’Neill, bringing together all three of their previously published Century installments: 1910, 1969, and 2009. The guys spend a good deal of time discussing the kind of readers that come to The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, what their expectations might be, and how some may not be ideal for Moore’s kind of writing. Can those unfamiliar with the previous League stories truly comprehend what’s going on in Century? Can readers unfamiliar with — or uninterested in — literary and pop-cultural marginalia come away from the book with an understanding of what Moore is attempting to do? These are some of the questions Andy and Derek discuss, and they recommend that it wouldn’t be a bad idea for readers to come to Century with annotations readily at hand. (Two great online sources for these are Jess Nevin’s annotations website as well as postings by the Mindless Ones.) Next, the guys discuss Ed Piskor’s latest volume of Hip Hop Family Tree. This second book covers the scene from 1981-1983, and it picks up right where last year’s first volume left off. Among other highlights, the guys talk about Piskor’s take on Sylvia Robinson and Sugar Hill Records, the evolution of Run-DMC, the resistance of many rappers to put their efforts on vinyl, the significance of Charlie Ahearn’s film Wild Style, and the role Fab Five Freddy played in bringing together uptown and downtown cultures. They specifically focus on Piskor’s art and the way he tells his story. Hip Hop Family Tree is a series of anecdotes and ongoing storylines, first published on Boing Boing, that may appear fragmented at first, but a careful reading reveals an interconnectedness that makes for an engaging history. And the way that Piskor represents key players in early hip hop culture  (e.g., Afrika Bambbataa, Melle Mel, Russell Simmons, Mr. Magic, Lonzo Williams, and Rick Rubin) is both revealing and humorous. Whether or not you’re a fan of hip hop — Andy is, Derek really isn’t — Hip Hop Family Tree is a series you definitely have to check out. This week the Two Guys with PhDs are rappin’ to the beat with two new books that will funk you up. That’s right, DJ D and Kunka Kool spend this episode getting down with Alan Moore and Kevin O’Neill’s The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen III: Century (Top Shelf/Knockabout) and Ed Piskor’s Hip Hop Family Tree 2 (Fantagraphics). First, they look at the latest hardbound collection from Moore and O’Neill, bringing together all three of their previously published Century installments: 1910, 1969, and 2009. The guys spend a good deal of time discussing the kind of readers that come to The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, what their expectations might be, and how some may not be ideal for Moore’s kind of writing. Can those unfamiliar with the previous League stories truly comprehend what’s going on in Century? Can readers unfamiliar with — or uninterested in — literary and pop-cultural marginalia come away from the book with an understanding of what Moore is attempting to do? These are some of the questions Andy and Derek discuss, and they recommend that it wouldn’t be a bad idea for readers to come to Century with annotations readily at hand. (Two great online sources for these are Jess Nevin’s annotations website as well as postings by the Mindless Ones.) Next, the guys discuss Ed Piskor’s latest volume of Hip Hop Family Tree. This second book covers the scene from 1981-1983, and it picks up right where last year’s first volume left off. Among other highlights, the guys talk about Piskor’s take on Sylvia Robinson and Sugar Hill Records, the evolution of Run-DMC, the resistance of many rappers to put their efforts on vinyl, the significance of Charlie Ahearn’s film Wild Style, and the role Fab Five Freddy played in bringing together uptown and downtown cultures. They specifically focus on Piskor’s art and the way he tells his story. Hip Hop Family Tree is a series of anecdotes and ongoing storylines, first published on Boing Boing, that may appear fragmented at first, but a careful reading reveals an interconnectedness that makes for an engaging history. And the way that Piskor represents key players in early hip hop culture  (e.g., Afrika Bambbataa, Melle Mel, Russell Simmons, Mr. Magic, Lonzo Williams, and Rick Rubin) is both revealing and humorous. Whether or not you’re a fan of hip hop — Andy is, Derek really isn’t — Hip Hop Family Tree is a series you definitely have to check out.

]]> 6649 yes Episode 99.1 - Talking with Creators at the Baltimore Comic Con http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-99-1.mp3 For this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton heads to the Baltimore Comic Con where he interviews a variety of creators. There, he has the pleasure of talking with Michel Fiffe, Jamal Igle, Christina Blanch, David Petersen, and Ben Hatke. They all take the time to discuss with Andy their various comics, the processes behind their works, and their upcoming projects. They also bring up the Harvey Awards, whose winners were announced at the Baltimore con. Mon, 08 Sep 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy on the Mic For this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton heads to the Baltimore Comic Con where he interviews a variety of creators. There, he has the pleasure of talking with Michel Fiffe, Jamal Igle, Christina Blanch, David Petersen, and Ben Hatke. They all take the time to discuss with Andy their various comics, the processes behind their works, and their upcoming projects. They also bring up the Harvey Awards, whose winners were announced at the Baltimore con. For this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton heads to the Baltimore Comic Con where he interviews a variety of creators. There, he has the pleasure of talking with Michel Fiffe, Jamal Igle, Christina Blanch, David Petersen, and Ben Hatke. They all take the time to discuss with Andy their various comics, the processes behind their works, and their upcoming projects. They also bring up the Harvey Awards, whose winners were announced at the Baltimore con.

]]> 2781 no Interviews - Farel Dalrymple http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews25-Dalrymple.mp3 Derek and Andy are pleased to have as their latest guest Farel Dalrymple, the author of the new book from First Second, The Wrenchies. The guys talk with Farel about his ideas behind the project, its narrative density, Ferel's highly detailed art, the prevalence of insects and ooze, his cool way of drawing villains, and the book's large cast of characters. (And, thank god, no one  mentions The Goonies anytime in the conversation.) Andy is particularly impressed by Sherwood (the protagonist) and his medallion, and Derek is more than a little creeped out by the abundance of tentacles in The Wrenchies and how they bore into people's eyes and latch onto their heads. He even notes this tendency in Farel's Omega the Unknown from several years ago. The Two Guys have Farel discuss his latest book in great detail, talk with him about ending up at First Second, ask him talk about some of his other projects, and then take conversational detours into movies and other pop culture stuff. It's a fun conversation, almost as cool as the wonderful hide-outs that Farel creates for his young characters in The Wrenchies. You definitely have to check out this book! Fri, 05 Sep 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”I'm a tentacle artist” Derek and Andy are pleased to have as their latest guest Farel Dalrymple, the author of the new book from First Second, The Wrenchies. The guys talk with Farel about his ideas behind the project, its narrative density, Ferel's highly detailed art, the prevalence of insects and ooze, his cool way of drawing villains, and the book's large cast of characters. (And, thank god, no one  mentions The Goonies anytime in the conversation.) Andy is particularly impressed by Sherwood (the protagonist) and his medallion, and Derek is more than a little creeped out by the abundance of tentacles in The Wrenchies and how they bore into people's eyes and latch onto their heads. He even notes this tendency in Farel's Omega the Unknown from several years ago. The Two Guys have Farel discuss his latest book in great detail, talk with him about ending up at First Second, ask him talk about some of his other projects, and then take conversational detours into movies and other pop culture stuff. It's a fun conversation, almost as cool as the wonderful hide-outs that Farel creates for his young characters in The Wrenchies. You definitely have to check out this book! Derek and Andy are pleased to have as their latest guest Farel Dalrymple, the author of the new book from First Second, The Wrenchies. The guys talk with Farel about his ideas behind the project, its narrative density, Ferel's highly detailed art, the prevalence of insects and ooze, his cool way of drawing villains, and the book's large cast of characters. (And, thank god, no one  mentions The Goonies anytime in the conversation.) Andy is particularly impressed by Sherwood (the protagonist) and his medallion, and Derek is more than a little creeped out by the abundance of tentacles in The Wrenchies and how they bore into people's eyes and latch onto their heads. He even notes this tendency in Farel's Omega the Unknown from several years ago. The Two Guys have Farel discuss his latest book in great detail, talk with him about ending up at First Second, ask him talk about some of his other projects, and then take conversational detours into movies and other pop culture stuff. It's a fun conversation, almost as cool as the wonderful hide-outs that Farel creates for his young characters in The Wrenchies. You definitely have to check out this book!

]]> 5427 no Episode 99 - The September Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-99.mp3 It's a new month, so that means it's time for Derek and Andy to take a look at the new Previews catalog. September's holds a lot of solicits that the guys want to discuss, comics that they're looking forward to in the coming months. Some of the upcoming titles they highlight include Resurrectionists #1 and Vault of Horror Vol. 4 from Dark Horse; The Kitchen #1 and Howard Chaykin's Twilight from DC/Vertigo; Shadow Show #1 and Ditko's Shorts from IDW; and ODYC #1, Tooth and Claw #1, and Intersect #1 from Image. There's also a whole slew of comics from the back half of the catalogue that the Two Guys discuss, including Derk Backderf's True Stories #1 (Alternative Comics), Hung Hung and Chioi's The Train (Conundrum), Lynda Barry's Syllabus (Drawn and Quarterly), Grady Hendrix and Ryan Dunlavey's Li'l Classix: Little Women (Evil Twin Comics), Dylan Horrock's Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen (Fantagraphics), Jamie Coe's Art Schooled (Nobrow Press), and Derek Van Gieson's Eel Mansions (Uncivilized Books)...among many others. All in all, it's another jam-packed Previews, and it's all the guys can do to squeeze everything into this one show. Wed, 03 Sep 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Solicits for All It's a new month, so that means it's time for Derek and Andy to take a look at the new Previews catalog. September's holds a lot of solicits that the guys want to discuss, comics that they're looking forward to in the coming months. Some of the upcoming titles they highlight include Resurrectionists #1 and Vault of Horror Vol. 4 from Dark Horse; The Kitchen #1 and Howard Chaykin's Twilight from DC/Vertigo; Shadow Show #1 and Ditko's Shorts from IDW; and ODYC #1, Tooth and Claw #1, and Intersect #1 from Image. There's also a whole slew of comics from the back half of the catalogue that the Two Guys discuss, including Derk Backderf's True Stories #1 (Alternative Comics), Hung Hung and Chioi's The Train (Conundrum), Lynda Barry's Syllabus (Drawn and Quarterly), Grady Hendrix and Ryan Dunlavey's Li'l Classix: Little Women (Evil Twin Comics), Dylan Horrock's Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen (Fantagraphics), Jamie Coe's Art Schooled (Nobrow Press), and Derek Van Gieson's Eel Mansions (Uncivilized Books)...among many others. All in all, it's another jam-packed Previews, and it's all the guys can do to squeeze everything into this one show. It's a new month, so that means it's time for Derek and Andy to take a look at the new Previews catalog. September's holds a lot of solicits that the guys want to discuss, comics that they're looking forward to in the coming months. Some of the upcoming titles they highlight include Resurrectionists #1 and Vault of Horror Vol. 4 from Dark Horse; The Kitchen #1 and Howard Chaykin's Twilight from DC/Vertigo; Shadow Show #1 and Ditko's Shorts from IDW; and ODYC #1, Tooth and Claw #1, and Intersect #1 from Image. There's also a whole slew of comics from the back half of the catalogue that the Two Guys discuss, including Derk Backderf's True Stories #1 (Alternative Comics), Hung Hung and Chioi's The Train (Conundrum), Lynda Barry's Syllabus (Drawn and Quarterly), Grady Hendrix and Ryan Dunlavey's Li'l Classix: Little Women (Evil Twin Comics), Dylan Horrock's Sam Zabel and the Magic Pen (Fantagraphics), Jamie Coe's Art Schooled (Nobrow Press), and Derek Van Gieson's Eel Mansions (Uncivilized Books)...among many others. All in all, it's another jam-packed Previews, and it's all the guys can do to squeeze everything into this one show.

]]> 5474 no Interviews - Tim Seeley http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews24-Seeley.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Andy and Derek have Tim Seeley back on the podcast to talk about his new series from Dark Horse, Sundowners. He discusses the genesis of the title, the series' premise, and possible directions that the story may go. The guys also ask him about his work on Grayson (DC Comics) and the criticism -- and later the praise -- he underwent in taking on this iconic figure under a new guise. The conversation moves along from his new titles, to the current trajectory of Revival (Image), to the Revival/Chew crossover, to the new manifestation of Hack/Slash (Image), to Batman Eternal (DC Comics), to his work on Chaos (Dynamite Entertainment), and even to an appreciation of Grant Morrison's work, Multiversity and all. And the Two Guys are amazed that Tim is currently working for so many publishers! All in all, it's a fun time, and Andy and Derek are pleased, once again, that Tim could make it to the show. Tue, 02 Sep 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”You've got the Dick creds now” On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Andy and Derek have Tim Seeley back on the podcast to talk about his new series from Dark Horse, Sundowners. He discusses the genesis of the title, the series' premise, and possible directions that the story may go. The guys also ask him about his work on Grayson (DC Comics) and the criticism -- and later the praise -- he underwent in taking on this iconic figure under a new guise. The conversation moves along from his new titles, to the current trajectory of Revival (Image), to the Revival/Chew crossover, to the new manifestation of Hack/Slash (Image), to Batman Eternal (DC Comics), to his work on Chaos (Dynamite Entertainment), and even to an appreciation of Grant Morrison's work, Multiversity and all. And the Two Guys are amazed that Tim is currently working for so many publishers! All in all, it's a fun time, and Andy and Derek are pleased, once again, that Tim could make it to the show. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Andy and Derek have Tim Seeley back on the podcast to talk about his new series from Dark Horse, Sundowners. He discusses the genesis of the title, the series' premise, and possible directions that the story may go. The guys also ask him about his work on Grayson (DC Comics) and the criticism -- and later the praise -- he underwent in taking on this iconic figure under a new guise. The conversation moves along from his new titles, to the current trajectory of Revival (Image), to the Revival/Chew crossover, to the new manifestation of Hack/Slash (Image), to Batman Eternal (DC Comics), to his work on Chaos (Dynamite Entertainment), and even to an appreciation of Grant Morrison's work, Multiversity and all. And the Two Guys are amazed that Tim is currently working for so many publishers! All in all, it's a fun time, and Andy and Derek are pleased, once again, that Tim could make it to the show.

]]> 4664 yes Interviews - Anya Ulinich http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews23-Ulinich.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek is pleased to have as a guest Anya Ulinich, the author of the new graphic novel Lena Finkle’s Magic Barrel (Penguin Books). They begin by discussing Anya’s transition from writing more traditional prose fiction — her first novel, Petropolis, was released in 2007 — to comics narrative. Along the way Anya talks about her art background, the genesis behind the new book, and the challenges of writing within two different media formats. As she points out, the character of Lena Finkle is loosely based on Anya’s own life experiences, but this is strictly a work of fiction. Yet at the same time, this is a deeply personal story, brought out most notably through the art — at times cartoony, at times more realistic — the layout, and the hand lettering. Much of Lena Finkle’s Magic Barrel has the feel of a personal journal, as if we are reading illustrations and stories from Ulinich’s sketchbook. The result is an intimate reading experience where we’re able to get inside of the protagonist and understand her complexities and contradictions as best we can. Fri, 29 Aug 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal ”Doomed to do comics” On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek is pleased to have as a guest Anya Ulinich, the author of the new graphic novel Lena Finkle’s Magic Barrel (Penguin Books). They begin by discussing Anya’s transition from writing more traditional prose fiction — her first novel, Petropolis, was released in 2007 — to comics narrative. Along the way Anya talks about her art background, the genesis behind the new book, and the challenges of writing within two different media formats. As she points out, the character of Lena Finkle is loosely based on Anya’s own life experiences, but this is strictly a work of fiction. Yet at the same time, this is a deeply personal story, brought out most notably through the art — at times cartoony, at times more realistic — the layout, and the hand lettering. Much of Lena Finkle’s Magic Barrel has the feel of a personal journal, as if we are reading illustrations and stories from Ulinich’s sketchbook. The result is an intimate reading experience where we’re able to get inside of the protagonist and understand her complexities and contradictions as best we can. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek is pleased to have as a guest Anya Ulinich, the author of the new graphic novel Lena Finkle’s Magic Barrel (Penguin Books). They begin by discussing Anya’s transition from writing more traditional prose fiction — her first novel, Petropolis, was released in 2007 — to comics narrative. Along the way Anya talks about her art background, the genesis behind the new book, and the challenges of writing within two different media formats. As she points out, the character of Lena Finkle is loosely based on Anya’s own life experiences, but this is strictly a work of fiction. Yet at the same time, this is a deeply personal story, brought out most notably through the art — at times cartoony, at times more realistic — the layout, and the hand lettering. Much of Lena Finkle’s Magic Barrel has the feel of a personal journal, as if we are reading illustrations and stories from Ulinich’s sketchbook. The result is an intimate reading experience where we’re able to get inside of the protagonist and understand her complexities and contradictions as best we can.

]]> 4388 no Episode 98 - Reviews of The People Inside, The Fade Out #1, and Faction http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-98.mp3 Derek and Andy are really excited this week, because on the latest episode of The Comics Alternative they get to talk about three new and incredible titles. (They're also excited because they have their first Podcast Patrons...but more on that later.) First, they look at Ray Fawkes's new graphic novel The People Inside (Oni Press). This is an innovative work that utilizes the comics medium in ways you rarely see. Fawkes gives us twelve, arguably thirteen or even more, stories of couples whose relationships flower, fade, endure, explode, and end in both touching and tragic ways. It's the way he tells the story (or stories) that makes this book unique, using paneling techniques to alternately separate and bring together individuals over the courses of their lives. The People Inside is one of the most striking books the Two Guys have discussed this year, and it makes them regretful for having missed out on Fawkes's previous book, One Soul (Oni Press). Next they look at another striking title, the first issue of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's The Fade Out (Image). Their series Fatale may have just recently ended, but Brubaker and Phillips are back in top form with the kind of straightforward, classic noir storytelling that marked their Criminal series several years ago. This tale is set in late-1940s Hollywood, and it takes as its subject matter the gritty and unseemly side of the industry that the studios try to keep hidden, or at least tap down. Unlike Fatale, this one has no supernatural elements, just the key components of a classic noir drama. And in this first issue, at least, the creators avoid the cliches and predictability that could mare such a down-the-line genre title. Finally, Andy and Derek look at a comics anthology out of New Zealand that they just got turned on to. Faction, edited by Damon Keen and Aime Maxwell, and published by 3 Bad Monkeys, is an annual showcasing the work of various New Zealand artists, including one of the guys' favorite digital comics artists, Tim Gibson (of Moth City fame). Derek and Andy look at the first three annuals, from 2012 to this year, and discuss the work of Gibson, Keen, Li Chen, Jonathan King, Karl Willis, Ned Wenlock, and Cory Mathis, among others. This is a collection that will, unfortunately, not get much attention here in the US, and the Two Guys hope to convince others to seek out this great title and increase its profile. You can get the 2012 and 2013 annuals through ComiXology, or visit the Faction website for content and ordering information. ALSO...the Two Guys announce the first Podcast Patrons for their new Patreon campaign! Check out what they're doing, see the rewards they're offering, and become a Patreon Patron yourself! Wed, 27 Aug 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Love, Noir, and Stuff Derek and Andy are really excited this week, because on the latest episode of The Comics Alternative they get to talk about three new and incredible titles. (They're also excited because they have their first Podcast Patrons...but more on that later.) First, they look at Ray Fawkes's new graphic novel The People Inside (Oni Press). This is an innovative work that utilizes the comics medium in ways you rarely see. Fawkes gives us twelve, arguably thirteen or even more, stories of couples whose relationships flower, fade, endure, explode, and end in both touching and tragic ways. It's the way he tells the story (or stories) that makes this book unique, using paneling techniques to alternately separate and bring together individuals over the courses of their lives. The People Inside is one of the most striking books the Two Guys have discussed this year, and it makes them regretful for having missed out on Fawkes's previous book, One Soul (Oni Press). Next they look at another striking title, the first issue of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's The Fade Out (Image). Their series Fatale may have just recently ended, but Brubaker and Phillips are back in top form with the kind of straightforward, classic noir storytelling that marked their Criminal series several years ago. This tale is set in late-1940s Hollywood, and it takes as its subject matter the gritty and unseemly side of the industry that the studios try to keep hidden, or at least tap down. Unlike Fatale, this one has no supernatural elements, just the key components of a classic noir drama. And in this first issue, at least, the creators avoid the cliches and predictability that could mare such a down-the-line genre title. Finally, Andy and Derek look at a comics anthology out of New Zealand that they just got turned on to. Faction, edited by Damon Keen and Aime Maxwell, and published by 3 Bad Monkeys, is an annual showcasing the work of various New Zealand artists, including one of the guys' favorite digital comics artists, Tim Gibson (of Moth City fame). Derek and Andy look at the first three annuals, from 2012 to this year, and discuss the work of Gibson, Keen, Li Chen, Jonathan King, Karl Willis, Ned Wenlock, and Cory Mathis, among others. This is a collection that will, unfortunately, not get much attention here in the US, and the Two Guys hope to convince others to seek out this great title and increase its profile. You can get the 2012 and 2013 annuals through ComiXology, or visit the Faction website for content and ordering information. ALSO...the Two Guys announce the first Podcast Patrons for their new Patreon campaign! Check out what they're doing, see the rewards they're offering, and become a Patreon Patron yourself! Derek and Andy are really excited this week, because on the latest episode of The Comics Alternative they get to talk about three new and incredible titles. (They're also excited because they have their first Podcast Patrons...but more on that later.) First, they look at Ray Fawkes's new graphic novel The People Inside (Oni Press). This is an innovative work that utilizes the comics medium in ways you rarely see. Fawkes gives us twelve, arguably thirteen or even more, stories of couples whose relationships flower, fade, endure, explode, and end in both touching and tragic ways. It's the way he tells the story (or stories) that makes this book unique, using paneling techniques to alternately separate and bring together individuals over the courses of their lives. The People Inside is one of the most striking books the Two Guys have discussed this year, and it makes them regretful for having missed out on Fawkes's previous book, One Soul (Oni Press). Next they look at another striking title, the first issue of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips's The Fade Out (Image). Their series Fatale may have just recently ended, but Brubaker and Phillips are back in top form with the kind of straightforward, classic noir storytelling that marked their Criminal series several years ago. This tale is set in late-1940s Hollywood, and it takes as its subject matter the gritty and unseemly side of the industry that the studios try to keep hidden, or at least tap down. Unlike Fatale, this one has no supernatural elements, just the key components of a classic noir drama. And in this first issue, at least, the creators avoid the cliches and predictability that could mare such a down-the-line genre title. Finally, Andy and Derek look at a comics anthology out of New Zealand that they just got turned on to. Faction, edited by Damon Keen and Aime Maxwell, and published by 3 Bad Monkeys, is an annual showcasing the work of various New Zealand artists, including one of the guys' favorite digital comics artists, Tim Gibson (of Moth City fame). Derek and Andy look at the first three annuals, from 2012 to this year, and discuss the work of Gibson, Keen, Li Chen, Jonathan King, Karl Willis, Ned Wenlock, and Cory Mathis, among others. This is a collection that will, unfortunately, not get much attention here in the US, and the Two Guys hope to convince others to seek out this great title and increase its profile. You can get the 2012 and 2013 annuals through ComiXology, or visit the Faction website for content and ordering information. ALSO...the Two Guys announce the first Podcast Patrons for their new Patreon campaign! Check out what they're doing, see the rewards they're offering, and become a Patreon Patron yourself!

]]> 5342 no Interviews - Chris Duffy http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews22-Duffy.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy talk with Chris Duffy about his new edited collection, Above the Dreamless Dead: World War I in Poetry and Comics (First Second). This is a unique project, gathering a variety of poems surrounding the First World War — both canonical as well as more obscure — and translating them into comics form. The guys talk with Chris about the genesis of this project and his efforts to bring together an eclectic group of artists, including Eddie Campbell, George Pratt, Hunt Emerson, Simon Gane, Sarah Glidden, Stephen Bissette, Peter Kuper, Isabel Greenberg, Carol Tyler, and Kevin Huizenga. Andy, in particular, is excited about this exchange, because it brings together two of his scholarly interests: World War I literature and comics. The guys also ask Chris about his more general work in comics, his experiences in working with a variety of different artists, the resonance between poetry and comics, and his philosophies in adapting texts from other media. While the subject matter in Above the Dreamless Dead may be sobering, the conversation in this episode is lively and engaging, a great mix of history, literary analysis, and comics-related insights. Mon, 25 Aug 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Life During Wartime On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy talk with Chris Duffy about his new edited collection, Above the Dreamless Dead: World War I in Poetry and Comics (First Second). This is a unique project, gathering a variety of poems surrounding the First World War — both canonical as well as more obscure — and translating them into comics form. The guys talk with Chris about the genesis of this project and his efforts to bring together an eclectic group of artists, including Eddie Campbell, George Pratt, Hunt Emerson, Simon Gane, Sarah Glidden, Stephen Bissette, Peter Kuper, Isabel Greenberg, Carol Tyler, and Kevin Huizenga. Andy, in particular, is excited about this exchange, because it brings together two of his scholarly interests: World War I literature and comics. The guys also ask Chris about his more general work in comics, his experiences in working with a variety of different artists, the resonance between poetry and comics, and his philosophies in adapting texts from other media. While the subject matter in Above the Dreamless Dead may be sobering, the conversation in this episode is lively and engaging, a great mix of history, literary analysis, and comics-related insights. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy talk with Chris Duffy about his new edited collection, Above the Dreamless Dead: World War I in Poetry and Comics (First Second). This is a unique project, gathering a variety of poems surrounding the First World War — both canonical as well as more obscure — and translating them into comics form. The guys talk with Chris about the genesis of this project and his efforts to bring together an eclectic group of artists, including Eddie Campbell, George Pratt, Hunt Emerson, Simon Gane, Sarah Glidden, Stephen Bissette, Peter Kuper, Isabel Greenberg, Carol Tyler, and Kevin Huizenga. Andy, in particular, is excited about this exchange, because it brings together two of his scholarly interests: World War I literature and comics. The guys also ask Chris about his more general work in comics, his experiences in working with a variety of different artists, the resonance between poetry and comics, and his philosophies in adapting texts from other media. While the subject matter in Above the Dreamless Dead may be sobering, the conversation in this episode is lively and engaging, a great mix of history, literary analysis, and comics-related insights.

]]> 5519 no Episode 97 - Reviews of Trillium, Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers #1, and Terminal Hero #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-97.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles. They begin by revisiting Jeff Lemire’s Trillium, the first few issues of which they reviewed on their Vertigo Publisher Spotlight show back in November. Now, the miniseries is collected in a single volume, and the guys compare the individual issues to the new trade edition. One of the first differences they note is the page arrangements of the trade. Whereas in many issues of the original miniseries Lemire visually set the storylines of Nika and William to read in opposite directions — where you had to turn the comic book upside down to read one of the narratives – in the trade he more or less places everything on the same reading plane. While Derek is okay with some of this editorial tampering, Andy feels that the difference undermines much of the emotional pacing of the story. But both agree that this new edition lessens Lemire’s emphasis on the materiality of the book, or the comic as object that has to be handled and manipulated. And while the Two Guys feel that this isn’t one of Lemire’s strongest narratives, it’s nonetheless a solid, well-written one. Next, Derek and Andy discuss two new #1 issues from Dynamite Entertainment. Joe Casey and Nathan Fox’s Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers is a visually wild ride through the land of Jack Kirbydom, and this first issue plunges you directly into the story without much warning or much context. It’s sink or swim with this first installment, but Casey arranges the gaps and the reveals in such a way that while you may not know what’s going on, you’re intrigued enough to want to read on into the next issue. Much of the pleasure of reading this comic comes from Fox’s art, perfectly suited to retelling a Kirby property, punctuated by short contributions from Jim Rugg and Ulises Farinas. Equally compelling — if not more so — is Peter Milligan and Piotr Kowalski’s Terminal Hero. In this brand new story, Milligan presents us with a protagonist who has inoperable brain cancer, and the mysterious and unorthodox treatment he undergoes allows him to tap into powers he never knew he had…and cannot completely control. In this first issue there are double-dealing friends, heads in flames, women whose clothing disintegrates, and potentially nefarious government agents. What more could you ask for in a comic book? Wed, 20 Aug 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “In medias res out the wazoo” On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles. They begin by revisiting Jeff Lemire’s Trillium, the first few issues of which they reviewed on their Vertigo Publisher Spotlight show back in November. Now, the miniseries is collected in a single volume, and the guys compare the individual issues to the new trade edition. One of the first differences they note is the page arrangements of the trade. Whereas in many issues of the original miniseries Lemire visually set the storylines of Nika and William to read in opposite directions — where you had to turn the comic book upside down to read one of the narratives – in the trade he more or less places everything on the same reading plane. While Derek is okay with some of this editorial tampering, Andy feels that the difference undermines much of the emotional pacing of the story. But both agree that this new edition lessens Lemire’s emphasis on the materiality of the book, or the comic as object that has to be handled and manipulated. And while the Two Guys feel that this isn’t one of Lemire’s strongest narratives, it’s nonetheless a solid, well-written one. Next, Derek and Andy discuss two new #1 issues from Dynamite Entertainment. Joe Casey and Nathan Fox’s Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers is a visually wild ride through the land of Jack Kirbydom, and this first issue plunges you directly into the story without much warning or much context. It’s sink or swim with this first installment, but Casey arranges the gaps and the reveals in such a way that while you may not know what’s going on, you’re intrigued enough to want to read on into the next issue. Much of the pleasure of reading this comic comes from Fox’s art, perfectly suited to retelling a Kirby property, punctuated by short contributions from Jim Rugg and Ulises Farinas. Equally compelling — if not more so — is Peter Milligan and Piotr Kowalski’s Terminal Hero. In this brand new story, Milligan presents us with a protagonist who has inoperable brain cancer, and the mysterious and unorthodox treatment he undergoes allows him to tap into powers he never knew he had…and cannot completely control. In this first issue there are double-dealing friends, heads in flames, women whose clothing disintegrates, and potentially nefarious government agents. What more could you ask for in a comic book? On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles. They begin by revisiting Jeff Lemire’s Trillium, the first few issues of which they reviewed on their Vertigo Publisher Spotlight show back in November. Now, the miniseries is collected in a single volume, and the guys compare the individual issues to the new trade edition. One of the first differences they note is the page arrangements of the trade. Whereas in many issues of the original miniseries Lemire visually set the storylines of Nika and William to read in opposite directions — where you had to turn the comic book upside down to read one of the narratives – in the trade he more or less places everything on the same reading plane. While Derek is okay with some of this editorial tampering, Andy feels that the difference undermines much of the emotional pacing of the story. But both agree that this new edition lessens Lemire’s emphasis on the materiality of the book, or the comic as object that has to be handled and manipulated. And while the Two Guys feel that this isn’t one of Lemire’s strongest narratives, it’s nonetheless a solid, well-written one. Next, Derek and Andy discuss two new #1 issues from Dynamite Entertainment. Joe Casey and Nathan Fox’s Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers is a visually wild ride through the land of Jack Kirbydom, and this first issue plunges you directly into the story without much warning or much context. It’s sink or swim with this first installment, but Casey arranges the gaps and the reveals in such a way that while you may not know what’s going on, you’re intrigued enough to want to read on into the next issue. Much of the pleasure of reading this comic comes from Fox’s art, perfectly suited to retelling a Kirby property, punctuated by short contributions from Jim Rugg and Ulises Farinas. Equally compelling — if not more so — is Peter Milligan and Piotr Kowalski’s Terminal Hero. In this brand new story, Milligan presents us with a protagonist who has inoperable brain cancer, and the mysterious and unorthodox treatment he undergoes allows him to tap into powers he never knew he had…and cannot completely control. In this first issue there are double-dealing friends, heads in flames, women whose clothing disintegrates, and potentially nefarious government agents. What more could you ask for in a comic book?

]]> 5156 no Interviews - Derek McCulloch and Anthony Peruzzo http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews21-McCulloch-Peruzzo.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Derek McCulloch and Anthony Peruzzo, the team behind the new graphic novel from Image, Displaced Persons. This is McCulloch's second time on the podcast, and Andy and Derek waste no time in pointing out thematic links between the new book and many of McCulloch's other works, particularly Gone to Amerikay and Stagger Lee. The guys talk with the creators about the genesis of Displaced Persons, its unexpectedly long gestation period, and many of the challenges they faced in presenting such an involved and complex story. Without giving away any spoilers -- and that was difficult to do, given the fact that key discussion points in the narrative were also potential reveals -- the Two Guys talk with McCulloch about his strategies for mapping out the graphic novel, comprising three distinct but inextricably linked stories, and Peruzzo's use of art to differentiate narrative threads and capture the tone of particular time periods. It's an enlightening conversation where more time is spent discussing the process of creation rather than on the specifics of the story itself. This is without question one of the most ambitious comics of 2014 so far, one that Andy and Derek will surely revisit during their year-end episode. Mon, 18 Aug 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Time Travels and a Cursed Family On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Derek McCulloch and Anthony Peruzzo, the team behind the new graphic novel from Image, Displaced Persons. This is McCulloch's second time on the podcast, and Andy and Derek waste no time in pointing out thematic links between the new book and many of McCulloch's other works, particularly Gone to Amerikay and Stagger Lee. The guys talk with the creators about the genesis of Displaced Persons, its unexpectedly long gestation period, and many of the challenges they faced in presenting such an involved and complex story. Without giving away any spoilers -- and that was difficult to do, given the fact that key discussion points in the narrative were also potential reveals -- the Two Guys talk with McCulloch about his strategies for mapping out the graphic novel, comprising three distinct but inextricably linked stories, and Peruzzo's use of art to differentiate narrative threads and capture the tone of particular time periods. It's an enlightening conversation where more time is spent discussing the process of creation rather than on the specifics of the story itself. This is without question one of the most ambitious comics of 2014 so far, one that Andy and Derek will surely revisit during their year-end episode. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Derek McCulloch and Anthony Peruzzo, the team behind the new graphic novel from Image, Displaced Persons. This is McCulloch's second time on the podcast, and Andy and Derek waste no time in pointing out thematic links between the new book and many of McCulloch's other works, particularly Gone to Amerikay and Stagger Lee. The guys talk with the creators about the genesis of Displaced Persons, its unexpectedly long gestation period, and many of the challenges they faced in presenting such an involved and complex story. Without giving away any spoilers -- and that was difficult to do, given the fact that key discussion points in the narrative were also potential reveals -- the Two Guys talk with McCulloch about his strategies for mapping out the graphic novel, comprising three distinct but inextricably linked stories, and Peruzzo's use of art to differentiate narrative threads and capture the tone of particular time periods. It's an enlightening conversation where more time is spent discussing the process of creation rather than on the specifics of the story itself. This is without question one of the most ambitious comics of 2014 so far, one that Andy and Derek will surely revisit during their year-end episode.

]]> 3871 no Episode 96.1 - On Location at Collected Comics in Plano http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-96-1.mp3 It’s another month, so Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. This time around, the topic is sci-fi comics, and joining Derek is new shop employee, Krystal, and several customers of Collected. They chose this month’s topic because of the new release of Guardians of the Galaxy as well as the upcoming new season of Doctor Who. A good bit of this episode is spent on the former — in fact, Derek was the only one at the table who hadn’t yet seen Guardians — and surprisingly little on the latter (not many Doctor Who fans were present). But everyone talks about their favorite current sci-fi titles as well as those that will be released in the next month or so. As usual, it’s a freewheeling conversation, punctuated by insights from the ever-unpredictable Shea Hennum and enlivened by the enthusiasm of Collected’s dedicated customers. Fri, 15 Aug 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talking Sci-Fi Comics It’s another month, so Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. This time around, the topic is sci-fi comics, and joining Derek is new shop employee, Krystal, and several customers of Collected. They chose this month’s topic because of the new release of Guardians of the Galaxy as well as the upcoming new season of Doctor Who. A good bit of this episode is spent on the former — in fact, Derek was the only one at the table who hadn’t yet seen Guardians — and surprisingly little on the latter (not many Doctor Who fans were present). But everyone talks about their favorite current sci-fi titles as well as those that will be released in the next month or so. As usual, it’s a freewheeling conversation, punctuated by insights from the ever-unpredictable Shea Hennum and enlivened by the enthusiasm of Collected’s dedicated customers. It’s another month, so Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. This time around, the topic is sci-fi comics, and joining Derek is new shop employee, Krystal, and several customers of Collected. They chose this month’s topic because of the new release of Guardians of the Galaxy as well as the upcoming new season of Doctor Who. A good bit of this episode is spent on the former — in fact, Derek was the only one at the table who hadn’t yet seen Guardians — and surprisingly little on the latter (not many Doctor Who fans were present). But everyone talks about their favorite current sci-fi titles as well as those that will be released in the next month or so. As usual, it’s a freewheeling conversation, punctuated by insights from the ever-unpredictable Shea Hennum and enlivened by the enthusiasm of Collected’s dedicated customers.

]]> 4359 no Episode 96 - Reviews of Seconds, DKW, and Bodies #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-96.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are back for another round of reviews, and this week they enthusiastically plunge into three new titles. First, they look at Bryan Lee O’Malley’s new book, Seconds (Ballantine), his much-anticipated follow up to the Scott Pilgrim series. Andy and Derek comment on the expectations surrounding this new work, and they conclude that the book is worth the build up and the wait. This is a much more mature work than the Scott Pilgrim books, not only in terms of subject matter, but also with O’Malley’s displays of storytelling. The premise is clever — a unique twist on time-travel narratives — and there’s a self-conscious tone that adds to the humor. Despite the book’s “too neat” ending, at least to Derek’s mind, it’s a successful work that stands alongside (if not surpasses) O’Malley’s previous comics. Next, the guys get to Sergio Ponchione’s tribute to Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, and Wally Wood, DKW (Fantagraphics). This one-shot is a good introduction to the personas of the legendary trio, although it comes up a little short in truly relating their styles and the impact they had on the industry. Derek and Andy wonder who the intended audience is for this comic, and they feel that this might be a useful title to make available next year for Free Comic Book Day. Finally, the Two Guys wrap things up with a discussion of Bodies #1 (Vertigo), the first in a new miniseries from Si Spencer. This is an intriguing murder mystery title that’s divided into four parts, each involving the same dead body but taking place in four different time periods. And each of the four sections is illustrated by a different artist: Dean Ormston, Phil Winslade, Meghan Hetrick, and Tula Lotay. This is just another great example of the great comics Vertigo is still producing, and the guys wish there were more coming out from their beloved DC imprint. Wed, 13 Aug 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Most of the things I do are fueled by children’s tears” The Two Guys with PhDs are back for another round of reviews, and this week they enthusiastically plunge into three new titles. First, they look at Bryan Lee O’Malley’s new book, Seconds (Ballantine), his much-anticipated follow up to the Scott Pilgrim series. Andy and Derek comment on the expectations surrounding this new work, and they conclude that the book is worth the build up and the wait. This is a much more mature work than the Scott Pilgrim books, not only in terms of subject matter, but also with O’Malley’s displays of storytelling. The premise is clever — a unique twist on time-travel narratives — and there’s a self-conscious tone that adds to the humor. Despite the book’s “too neat” ending, at least to Derek’s mind, it’s a successful work that stands alongside (if not surpasses) O’Malley’s previous comics. Next, the guys get to Sergio Ponchione’s tribute to Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, and Wally Wood, DKW (Fantagraphics). This one-shot is a good introduction to the personas of the legendary trio, although it comes up a little short in truly relating their styles and the impact they had on the industry. Derek and Andy wonder who the intended audience is for this comic, and they feel that this might be a useful title to make available next year for Free Comic Book Day. Finally, the Two Guys wrap things up with a discussion of Bodies #1 (Vertigo), the first in a new miniseries from Si Spencer. This is an intriguing murder mystery title that’s divided into four parts, each involving the same dead body but taking place in four different time periods. And each of the four sections is illustrated by a different artist: Dean Ormston, Phil Winslade, Meghan Hetrick, and Tula Lotay. This is just another great example of the great comics Vertigo is still producing, and the guys wish there were more coming out from their beloved DC imprint. The Two Guys with PhDs are back for another round of reviews, and this week they enthusiastically plunge into three new titles. First, they look at Bryan Lee O’Malley’s new book, Seconds (Ballantine), his much-anticipated follow up to the Scott Pilgrim series. Andy and Derek comment on the expectations surrounding this new work, and they conclude that the book is worth the build up and the wait. This is a much more mature work than the Scott Pilgrim books, not only in terms of subject matter, but also with O’Malley’s displays of storytelling. The premise is clever — a unique twist on time-travel narratives — and there’s a self-conscious tone that adds to the humor. Despite the book’s “too neat” ending, at least to Derek’s mind, it’s a successful work that stands alongside (if not surpasses) O’Malley’s previous comics. Next, the guys get to Sergio Ponchione’s tribute to Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, and Wally Wood, DKW (Fantagraphics). This one-shot is a good introduction to the personas of the legendary trio, although it comes up a little short in truly relating their styles and the impact they had on the industry. Derek and Andy wonder who the intended audience is for this comic, and they feel that this might be a useful title to make available next year for Free Comic Book Day. Finally, the Two Guys wrap things up with a discussion of Bodies #1 (Vertigo), the first in a new miniseries from Si Spencer. This is an intriguing murder mystery title that’s divided into four parts, each involving the same dead body but taking place in four different time periods. And each of the four sections is illustrated by a different artist: Dean Ormston, Phil Winslade, Meghan Hetrick, and Tula Lotay. This is just another great example of the great comics Vertigo is still producing, and the guys wish there were more coming out from their beloved DC imprint.

]]> 5525 no Interviews - Alec Longstreth http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews20-Longstreth.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. talk with Alec Longstreth about his recent book, Basewood, as well as his self-published minicomic series, Phase 7. They ask him about the genesis of his first graphic novel, his experience with serialization, the successful Kickstarter campaign, and efforts to publicize and distribute his beautiful hardbound book. Alec also talks extensively about the music he and fellow musician Andy Hentz created as a soundtrack for the comic, Songs from the Basewood. (In fact, all of the music in this episode comes from that CD.) This began as a stretch goal for the Kickstarter campaign, and it is also made available in issue #20 of Phase 7. But Alec has now made all of the music available on bandcamp.com. And in a first on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys even play full versions of some of Alec’s songs to give listeners a taste of  how he artist has perfectly melded his two passions, comics art and music. Mon, 11 Aug 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Conversation from the Basewood On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. talk with Alec Longstreth about his recent book, Basewood, as well as his self-published minicomic series, Phase 7. They ask him about the genesis of his first graphic novel, his experience with serialization, the successful Kickstarter campaign, and efforts to publicize and distribute his beautiful hardbound book. Alec also talks extensively about the music he and fellow musician Andy Hentz created as a soundtrack for the comic, Songs from the Basewood. (In fact, all of the music in this episode comes from that CD.) This began as a stretch goal for the Kickstarter campaign, and it is also made available in issue #20 of Phase 7. But Alec has now made all of the music available on bandcamp.com. And in a first on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys even play full versions of some of Alec’s songs to give listeners a taste of  how he artist has perfectly melded his two passions, comics art and music. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Derek and Andy W. talk with Alec Longstreth about his recent book, Basewood, as well as his self-published minicomic series, Phase 7. They ask him about the genesis of his first graphic novel, his experience with serialization, the successful Kickstarter campaign, and efforts to publicize and distribute his beautiful hardbound book. Alec also talks extensively about the music he and fellow musician Andy Hentz created as a soundtrack for the comic, Songs from the Basewood. (In fact, all of the music in this episode comes from that CD.) This began as a stretch goal for the Kickstarter campaign, and it is also made available in issue #20 of Phase 7. But Alec has now made all of the music available on bandcamp.com. And in a first on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys even play full versions of some of Alec’s songs to give listeners a taste of  how he artist has perfectly melded his two passions, comics art and music.

]]> 4767 no Episode 95.2 - The “Comics Goes to College” Panel at Wizard World San Antonio http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-95-2.mp3 In the second of two special Wizard World episodes, Derek participates on a discussion organized especially for the San Antonio con, “Getting Respect: Comics Goes to College.” The panel was moderated and organized by Danny Fingeroth — who oversees many of the panels at Wizard World cons across the country — and featured a variety of comics scholars. In addition to Derek and Danny, the participants included Sam Cannon from the University of Texas at Austin, Louie Dean Valencia-Garcia studying at Fordham university, and William S. Bush and Jackson Ayres, both from Texas A&M University-San Antonio. Each presenter discussed research they were working on or strategies for teaching comics they’ve used in the past, and then the floor was opened for questions from the audience. Fri, 08 Aug 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Getting Respect In the second of two special Wizard World episodes, Derek participates on a discussion organized especially for the San Antonio con, “Getting Respect: Comics Goes to College.” The panel was moderated and organized by Danny Fingeroth — who oversees many of the panels at Wizard World cons across the country — and featured a variety of comics scholars. In addition to Derek and Danny, the participants included Sam Cannon from the University of Texas at Austin, Louie Dean Valencia-Garcia studying at Fordham university, and William S. Bush and Jackson Ayres, both from Texas A&M University-San Antonio. Each presenter discussed research they were working on or strategies for teaching comics they’ve used in the past, and then the floor was opened for questions from the audience. In the second of two special Wizard World episodes, Derek participates on a discussion organized especially for the San Antonio con, “Getting Respect: Comics Goes to College.” The panel was moderated and organized by Danny Fingeroth — who oversees many of the panels at Wizard World cons across the country — and featured a variety of comics scholars. In addition to Derek and Danny, the participants included Sam Cannon from the University of Texas at Austin, Louie Dean Valencia-Garcia studying at Fordham university, and William S. Bush and Jackson Ayres, both from Texas A&M University-San Antonio. Each presenter discussed research they were working on or strategies for teaching comics they’ve used in the past, and then the floor was opened for questions from the audience.

]]> 6007 no Episode 95.1 - Talking with Creators at Wizard World San Antonio http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-95-1.mp3 Last weekend Derek headed to the Wizard World San Antonio Comic Con, and there he spoke with several creators about their work, their various contributions to the comics community, and their experiences at this first-time-ever event in San Antonio. Talking with Derek at the con was Neal Adams — who delivers science lessons with thoughts on his hollow earth model — Michael Golden, J. R. Knoll, Danny Fingeroth, and Jai Nitz. Golden and Nitz discussed their teaching efforts, and Fingeroth shared his experiences on editing for Marvel, writing critically about comics, and organizing panels for the various Wizard World events. This is the first of a two-part special series of shows from the San Antonio con. Tomorrow the Two Guys will post a recording of a panel that Derek was on, “Getting Respect: Comics Goes to College.” Stay tuned! Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal On the Floor in Alamo City Last weekend Derek headed to the Wizard World San Antonio Comic Con, and there he spoke with several creators about their work, their various contributions to the comics community, and their experiences at this first-time-ever event in San Antonio. Talking with Derek at the con was Neal Adams — who delivers science lessons with thoughts on his hollow earth model — Michael Golden, J. R. Knoll, Danny Fingeroth, and Jai Nitz. Golden and Nitz discussed their teaching efforts, and Fingeroth shared his experiences on editing for Marvel, writing critically about comics, and organizing panels for the various Wizard World events. This is the first of a two-part special series of shows from the San Antonio con. Tomorrow the Two Guys will post a recording of a panel that Derek was on, “Getting Respect: Comics Goes to College.” Stay tuned! Last weekend Derek headed to the Wizard World San Antonio Comic Con, and there he spoke with several creators about their work, their various contributions to the comics community, and their experiences at this first-time-ever event in San Antonio. Talking with Derek at the con was Neal Adams — who delivers science lessons with thoughts on his hollow earth model — Michael Golden, J. R. Knoll, Danny Fingeroth, and Jai Nitz. Golden and Nitz discussed their teaching efforts, and Fingeroth shared his experiences on editing for Marvel, writing critically about comics, and organizing panels for the various Wizard World events. This is the first of a two-part special series of shows from the San Antonio con. Tomorrow the Two Guys will post a recording of a panel that Derek was on, “Getting Respect: Comics Goes to College.” Stay tuned!

]]> 2972 no Episode 95 - The August Previews Catalog and the 2014 Eisner Award Winners http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-95.mp3 With this week’s episode, Andy and Derek celebrate their 2nd anniversary as a podcast! What a time to celebrate…and celebrate, they do, in the form of a hefty, action-packed episode of The Comics Alternative. They begin with a rundown of the 2014 Eisner Award winners, announced recently at the San Diego Comic-Con. Neither of the guys are surprised at the winners — including Saga, Hawkeye, The Wake, Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground, and creators such as Brian K. Vaughn, Jeffery Brown, and both Hernandes brothers — although each has his quibble. Next, and since this is the first week of August, the Two Guys spend the remainder of the show discussing the August Previews catalog. This is a generous issue, filled with too many great upcoming comics, more than humans should be allowed to read. Derek and Andy spend a lot of time focusing on new releases from Dark Horse, Image, Fantagraphics, Drawn and Quarterly, and Oni Press, but they mention the titles from other publishers as well. PLUS, this episode is punctuated by a variety of birthday-related music. So light those candles, put on that party hat, and listen to the Two Guys with PhDs as they celebrate their two-year anniversary! Wed, 06 Aug 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Our 2nd Birthday!! With this week’s episode, Andy and Derek celebrate their 2nd anniversary as a podcast! What a time to celebrate…and celebrate, they do, in the form of a hefty, action-packed episode of The Comics Alternative. They begin with a rundown of the 2014 Eisner Award winners, announced recently at the San Diego Comic-Con. Neither of the guys are surprised at the winners — including Saga, Hawkeye, The Wake, Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground, and creators such as Brian K. Vaughn, Jeffery Brown, and both Hernandes brothers — although each has his quibble. Next, and since this is the first week of August, the Two Guys spend the remainder of the show discussing the August Previews catalog. This is a generous issue, filled with too many great upcoming comics, more than humans should be allowed to read. Derek and Andy spend a lot of time focusing on new releases from Dark Horse, Image, Fantagraphics, Drawn and Quarterly, and Oni Press, but they mention the titles from other publishers as well. PLUS, this episode is punctuated by a variety of birthday-related music. So light those candles, put on that party hat, and listen to the Two Guys with PhDs as they celebrate their two-year anniversary! With this week’s episode, Andy and Derek celebrate their 2nd anniversary as a podcast! What a time to celebrate…and celebrate, they do, in the form of a hefty, action-packed episode of The Comics Alternative. They begin with a rundown of the 2014 Eisner Award winners, announced recently at the San Diego Comic-Con. Neither of the guys are surprised at the winners — including Saga, Hawkeye, The Wake, Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground, and creators such as Brian K. Vaughn, Jeffery Brown, and both Hernandes brothers — although each has his quibble. Next, and since this is the first week of August, the Two Guys spend the remainder of the show discussing the August Previews catalog. This is a generous issue, filled with too many great upcoming comics, more than humans should be allowed to read. Derek and Andy spend a lot of time focusing on new releases from Dark Horse, Image, Fantagraphics, Drawn and Quarterly, and Oni Press, but they mention the titles from other publishers as well. PLUS, this episode is punctuated by a variety of birthday-related music. So light those candles, put on that party hat, and listen to the Two Guys with PhDs as they celebrate their two-year anniversary!

]]> 7234 no Episode 94 - Reviews of Murder Me Dead, Black Market #1, and Low #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-94.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new titles. First they look at the reissue of David Lapham’s Murder Me Dead (Image). Originally a nine-issue miniseries that was later collected as a trade in 2002, the book is now back in print with a new reissue. The guys discussed Stray Bullets‘ return back in April, and now they’re just as excited to see this release. This is Lapham’s tip of the bristol board to the classic noir films of the 1940s and 1950s. Next, they turn their attention to two new number one issues: Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos’s Black Market (BOOM! Studios) and Rick Remender and Greg Tocchini’s Low (Image). The first is a twist on superheroes, looking at them from the street-level and with a more jaundiced eye. In this  new miniseries, Barbiere is asking us who the real heroes actually are. Low, Rememder’s third ongoing title with Image, is a new sci-fi adventure that begins with this premise: what would happen if our sun were going supernova, and we had to live undersea to escape radiation, all the while searching the universe for another inhabitable planet? With Tocchini’s stunning art, we get a fascinating answer. Wed, 30 Jul 2014 10:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hot Reading Fun in the Summer This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new titles. First they look at the reissue of David Lapham’s Murder Me Dead (Image). Originally a nine-issue miniseries that was later collected as a trade in 2002, the book is now back in print with a new reissue. The guys discussed Stray Bullets‘ return back in April, and now they’re just as excited to see this release. This is Lapham’s tip of the bristol board to the classic noir films of the 1940s and 1950s. Next, they turn their attention to two new number one issues: Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos’s Black Market (BOOM! Studios) and Rick Remender and Greg Tocchini’s Low (Image). The first is a twist on superheroes, looking at them from the street-level and with a more jaundiced eye. In this  new miniseries, Barbiere is asking us who the real heroes actually are. Low, Rememder’s third ongoing title with Image, is a new sci-fi adventure that begins with this premise: what would happen if our sun were going supernova, and we had to live undersea to escape radiation, all the while searching the universe for another inhabitable planet? With Tocchini’s stunning art, we get a fascinating answer. This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy W. discuss three new titles. First they look at the reissue of David Lapham’s Murder Me Dead (Image). Originally a nine-issue miniseries that was later collected as a trade in 2002, the book is now back in print with a new reissue. The guys discussed Stray Bullets‘ return back in April, and now they’re just as excited to see this release. This is Lapham’s tip of the bristol board to the classic noir films of the 1940s and 1950s. Next, they turn their attention to two new number one issues: Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos’s Black Market (BOOM! Studios) and Rick Remender and Greg Tocchini’s Low (Image). The first is a twist on superheroes, looking at them from the street-level and with a more jaundiced eye. In this  new miniseries, Barbiere is asking us who the real heroes actually are. Low, Rememder’s third ongoing title with Image, is a new sci-fi adventure that begins with this premise: what would happen if our sun were going supernova, and we had to live undersea to escape radiation, all the while searching the universe for another inhabitable planet? With Tocchini’s stunning art, we get a fascinating answer.

]]> 5840 no Episode 93 - Reviews of The Maxx Maxximized, Vol. 1, Supreme: Blue Rose #1, and New Doctor Who Titles from Titan Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-93.mp3 On this week’s The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy W. review four new titles, all of which revisit older characters and licenses. To begin, they discuss the first collected volume of Sam Kieth and William Messner-Loebs’s remastered The Maxx Maxximized (IDW Publishing). Neither of the guys read the series when it originally came out in the early 1990s, so both are looking at this title through unexperienced eyes. This is one of Kieth’s most ambitious works in terms of both story and art, highly deserving of the wonderful recoloring treatment by Ronda Pattison. Both Andy and Derek love this first hardbound volume, and their sole “criticism” is that only the first four issues of the Maxximized series are collected, making the book thinner than expected. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs move on to another 1990s Image property, one originally created by Rob Liefeld and then mastered by Alan Moore. Warren Ellis and Tula Lotay’s Supreme: Blue Rose #1 (Image) is a substantive first issue, tapping into the Moore’s take on the hero, yet making the story seem new. You don’t have to be familiar with the 1990s Supreme in order to appreciate Ellis’s storytelling, or Lotay’s art (one of the highlights of this issue). Finally, Derek and Andy turn to two brand new titles from Titan Comics: Doctor Who: The Tenth Doctor #1 and Doctor Who: The Eleventh Doctor #1. Titan, a relatively new publisher on the comic-book scene, recently acquired the Doctor Who license from IDW, where it had been for the past several years. So both of the guys, especially Derek — Andy isn’t much of a Doctor Who watcher — are curious to see how they handle the title. And neither is disappointed. Titan launches the series with two new ongoing series, each based on the last two manifestations of the Doctor. While Derek found both first issues great entry points, Andy wasn’t as sure about the Tenth Doctor title (maybe partly due to the fact that he wasn’t familiar with the David Tennant character). Regardless, both enjoyed discussing Who stuff and speculating on the upcoming Twelfth Doctor…who will also be getting his own Titan title in a couple of months. There’s lots of books, and lots of talk, packed into this episode. Wed, 23 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Revisits, Not Retreads On this week’s The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy W. review four new titles, all of which revisit older characters and licenses. To begin, they discuss the first collected volume of Sam Kieth and William Messner-Loebs’s remastered The Maxx Maxximized (IDW Publishing). Neither of the guys read the series when it originally came out in the early 1990s, so both are looking at this title through unexperienced eyes. This is one of Kieth’s most ambitious works in terms of both story and art, highly deserving of the wonderful recoloring treatment by Ronda Pattison. Both Andy and Derek love this first hardbound volume, and their sole “criticism” is that only the first four issues of the Maxximized series are collected, making the book thinner than expected. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs move on to another 1990s Image property, one originally created by Rob Liefeld and then mastered by Alan Moore. Warren Ellis and Tula Lotay’s Supreme: Blue Rose #1 (Image) is a substantive first issue, tapping into the Moore’s take on the hero, yet making the story seem new. You don’t have to be familiar with the 1990s Supreme in order to appreciate Ellis’s storytelling, or Lotay’s art (one of the highlights of this issue). Finally, Derek and Andy turn to two brand new titles from Titan Comics: Doctor Who: The Tenth Doctor #1 and Doctor Who: The Eleventh Doctor #1. Titan, a relatively new publisher on the comic-book scene, recently acquired the Doctor Who license from IDW, where it had been for the past several years. So both of the guys, especially Derek — Andy isn’t much of a Doctor Who watcher — are curious to see how they handle the title. And neither is disappointed. Titan launches the series with two new ongoing series, each based on the last two manifestations of the Doctor. While Derek found both first issues great entry points, Andy wasn’t as sure about the Tenth Doctor title (maybe partly due to the fact that he wasn’t familiar with the David Tennant character). Regardless, both enjoyed discussing Who stuff and speculating on the upcoming Twelfth Doctor…who will also be getting his own Titan title in a couple of months. There’s lots of books, and lots of talk, packed into this episode. On this week’s The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy W. review four new titles, all of which revisit older characters and licenses. To begin, they discuss the first collected volume of Sam Kieth and William Messner-Loebs’s remastered The Maxx Maxximized (IDW Publishing). Neither of the guys read the series when it originally came out in the early 1990s, so both are looking at this title through unexperienced eyes. This is one of Kieth’s most ambitious works in terms of both story and art, highly deserving of the wonderful recoloring treatment by Ronda Pattison. Both Andy and Derek love this first hardbound volume, and their sole “criticism” is that only the first four issues of the Maxximized series are collected, making the book thinner than expected. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs move on to another 1990s Image property, one originally created by Rob Liefeld and then mastered by Alan Moore. Warren Ellis and Tula Lotay’s Supreme: Blue Rose #1 (Image) is a substantive first issue, tapping into the Moore’s take on the hero, yet making the story seem new. You don’t have to be familiar with the 1990s Supreme in order to appreciate Ellis’s storytelling, or Lotay’s art (one of the highlights of this issue). Finally, Derek and Andy turn to two brand new titles from Titan Comics: Doctor Who: The Tenth Doctor #1 and Doctor Who: The Eleventh Doctor #1. Titan, a relatively new publisher on the comic-book scene, recently acquired the Doctor Who license from IDW, where it had been for the past several years. So both of the guys, especially Derek — Andy isn’t much of a Doctor Who watcher — are curious to see how they handle the title. And neither is disappointed. Titan launches the series with two new ongoing series, each based on the last two manifestations of the Doctor. While Derek found both first issues great entry points, Andy wasn’t as sure about the Tenth Doctor title (maybe partly due to the fact that he wasn’t familiar with the David Tennant character). Regardless, both enjoyed discussing Who stuff and speculating on the upcoming Twelfth Doctor…who will also be getting his own Titan title in a couple of months. There’s lots of books, and lots of talk, packed into this episode.

]]> 5809 no Interviews - Ryan Browne http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews19-Browne.mp3 It’s another episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, and this time Andy and Derek talk with Ryan Browne, the comedic mastermind behind God Hates Astronauts. On the show, Ryan discusses his new ongoing series from Image Comics, how it springs from the first volume of God Hates Astronauts, and the challenges and changes he’s encountered going from a self-published webcomic to an monthly series. The guys have a fun time talking about the weird characters and the almost indescribable plot that make up God Hates Astronauts…and how the weird indescribability is what makes the title such a success. They also ask Ryan about his experiences on Kickstarter, his other webcomic (as yet incomplete), Blast Furnace, and his work with Jonathan Hickman on Manhattan Projects. There’s a lot of laughing in this episode, but there’s also a lot of insight and serious discussion on the art of comedy in comics. If you haven’t already, and after listening to this show, go preorder your copy of God Hates Astronauts #1! Mon, 21 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Lots o’ Laffs It’s another episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, and this time Andy and Derek talk with Ryan Browne, the comedic mastermind behind God Hates Astronauts. On the show, Ryan discusses his new ongoing series from Image Comics, how it springs from the first volume of God Hates Astronauts, and the challenges and changes he’s encountered going from a self-published webcomic to an monthly series. The guys have a fun time talking about the weird characters and the almost indescribable plot that make up God Hates Astronauts…and how the weird indescribability is what makes the title such a success. They also ask Ryan about his experiences on Kickstarter, his other webcomic (as yet incomplete), Blast Furnace, and his work with Jonathan Hickman on Manhattan Projects. There’s a lot of laughing in this episode, but there’s also a lot of insight and serious discussion on the art of comedy in comics. If you haven’t already, and after listening to this show, go preorder your copy of God Hates Astronauts #1! It’s another episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, and this time Andy and Derek talk with Ryan Browne, the comedic mastermind behind God Hates Astronauts. On the show, Ryan discusses his new ongoing series from Image Comics, how it springs from the first volume of God Hates Astronauts, and the challenges and changes he’s encountered going from a self-published webcomic to an monthly series. The guys have a fun time talking about the weird characters and the almost indescribable plot that make up God Hates Astronauts…and how the weird indescribability is what makes the title such a success. They also ask Ryan about his experiences on Kickstarter, his other webcomic (as yet incomplete), Blast Furnace, and his work with Jonathan Hickman on Manhattan Projects. There’s a lot of laughing in this episode, but there’s also a lot of insight and serious discussion on the art of comedy in comics. If you haven’t already, and after listening to this show, go preorder your copy of God Hates Astronauts #1!

]]> 6442 yes Episode 92 - Reviews of Can’t We Talk about Something More Pleasant? and Interesting Drug http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-92.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is joined by Gene to review two new books. First, they look at Can’t We Talk about Something More Pleasant?: A Memoir by New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast (Bloomsbury). This is Chast’s account of her parents’ failing health, the process of dying, and the author’s complicated relationship with both her mother and father (especially her mother). It is a moving, and at times heartrending, story about George and Elizabeth Chast, their physical decline, their growing dementia, and their eventual passing. The guys discuss Chast’s style, heavily influenced by her New Yorker work, and how it’s essential to her storytelling. Whether or not you have had similar experiences, dying parents or loved ones suffering from long bouts of illness, this book is one that will greatly affect you. From there Gene and Derek move on to the first graphic novel from Shaun Manning and Anna Wieszczyk, Interesting Drug (Archaia/BOOM! Studios). Both feel that the concept is intriguing — the development of a drug that allows you to travel back along your own timeline — but they’re unsure about the story’s ultimate execution. For Gene, the art, while highly engaging, is at times unclear when it comes to narrative particulars (who is who in a certain panel, what’s going on with the action, etc.). For Derek, there’s not enough exposition on several key plot points, and as a result, some of the character motivations are confusing. Still, Interesting Drug is worth reading for the premise and the art. Wed, 16 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Death, Dying, and Drugs On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is joined by Gene to review two new books. First, they look at Can’t We Talk about Something More Pleasant?: A Memoir by New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast (Bloomsbury). This is Chast’s account of her parents’ failing health, the process of dying, and the author’s complicated relationship with both her mother and father (especially her mother). It is a moving, and at times heartrending, story about George and Elizabeth Chast, their physical decline, their growing dementia, and their eventual passing. The guys discuss Chast’s style, heavily influenced by her New Yorker work, and how it’s essential to her storytelling. Whether or not you have had similar experiences, dying parents or loved ones suffering from long bouts of illness, this book is one that will greatly affect you. From there Gene and Derek move on to the first graphic novel from Shaun Manning and Anna Wieszczyk, Interesting Drug (Archaia/BOOM! Studios). Both feel that the concept is intriguing — the development of a drug that allows you to travel back along your own timeline — but they’re unsure about the story’s ultimate execution. For Gene, the art, while highly engaging, is at times unclear when it comes to narrative particulars (who is who in a certain panel, what’s going on with the action, etc.). For Derek, there’s not enough exposition on several key plot points, and as a result, some of the character motivations are confusing. Still, Interesting Drug is worth reading for the premise and the art. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is joined by Gene to review two new books. First, they look at Can’t We Talk about Something More Pleasant?: A Memoir by New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast (Bloomsbury). This is Chast’s account of her parents’ failing health, the process of dying, and the author’s complicated relationship with both her mother and father (especially her mother). It is a moving, and at times heartrending, story about George and Elizabeth Chast, their physical decline, their growing dementia, and their eventual passing. The guys discuss Chast’s style, heavily influenced by her New Yorker work, and how it’s essential to her storytelling. Whether or not you have had similar experiences, dying parents or loved ones suffering from long bouts of illness, this book is one that will greatly affect you. From there Gene and Derek move on to the first graphic novel from Shaun Manning and Anna Wieszczyk, Interesting Drug (Archaia/BOOM! Studios). Both feel that the concept is intriguing — the development of a drug that allows you to travel back along your own timeline — but they’re unsure about the story’s ultimate execution. For Gene, the art, while highly engaging, is at times unclear when it comes to narrative particulars (who is who in a certain panel, what’s going on with the action, etc.). For Derek, there’s not enough exposition on several key plot points, and as a result, some of the character motivations are confusing. Still, Interesting Drug is worth reading for the premise and the art.

]]> 4897 no Interviews - Derek Van Gieson http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews18-VanGieson.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Andy and Derek are excited to have Derek Van Gieson as their guest…or “DVG” to distinguish him from Derek R. The Two Guys are big fans of DVG’s minicomic series, Eel Mansions, with its wild premises, its absurd scenes, its plentifully pop-culture references, and its intertwining soap opera-like storylines. DVG describes it as “The Young and the Restless meet The X-Files,” and his series embraces both the drama and the freakishness of those television series. DVG shares the history behind Eel Mansions; his experiences writing for Fantagraphics’ now-defunct Mome; his new magazine project, Gonna to Make You My Bisquits; and his relationship with Tom Kaczynski both as publisher and fellow artist. He also talks with the Two Guys with PhDs about his work as a musician and songwriter. In fact, all of the music you hear in this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews is performed by DVG himself! Tue, 15 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “The Young and the Restless meets The X-Files” On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Andy and Derek are excited to have Derek Van Gieson as their guest…or “DVG” to distinguish him from Derek R. The Two Guys are big fans of DVG’s minicomic series, Eel Mansions, with its wild premises, its absurd scenes, its plentifully pop-culture references, and its intertwining soap opera-like storylines. DVG describes it as “The Young and the Restless meet The X-Files,” and his series embraces both the drama and the freakishness of those television series. DVG shares the history behind Eel Mansions; his experiences writing for Fantagraphics’ now-defunct Mome; his new magazine project, Gonna to Make You My Bisquits; and his relationship with Tom Kaczynski both as publisher and fellow artist. He also talks with the Two Guys with PhDs about his work as a musician and songwriter. In fact, all of the music you hear in this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews is performed by DVG himself! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Andy and Derek are excited to have Derek Van Gieson as their guest…or “DVG” to distinguish him from Derek R. The Two Guys are big fans of DVG’s minicomic series, Eel Mansions, with its wild premises, its absurd scenes, its plentifully pop-culture references, and its intertwining soap opera-like storylines. DVG describes it as “The Young and the Restless meet The X-Files,” and his series embraces both the drama and the freakishness of those television series. DVG shares the history behind Eel Mansions; his experiences writing for Fantagraphics’ now-defunct Mome; his new magazine project, Gonna to Make You My Bisquits; and his relationship with Tom Kaczynski both as publisher and fellow artist. He also talks with the Two Guys with PhDs about his work as a musician and songwriter. In fact, all of the music you hear in this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews is performed by DVG himself!

]]> 5001 no Episode 91.2 - Our July Visit to Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-91-2.mp3 We’re deep into July, so that means it’s time for the monthly visit to Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. And this is the second month in a row that the shop’s manager, Jennifer, has coupled The Comics Alternative‘s on-location show with their monthly Collected Talks (an opportunity for customers and staff to get together and share the kind of comics they are reading). The event is a success, with there being more participants than last month. Joining Derek on the podcast this time around are Jennifer and some of her shop employees, Sabrina and (occasionally) Freddy. Also a part of the conversation is stalwart podcast respondent Shea Hennum, and loyal shop customers Laura, Craig, Nick, and David. The conversation is broad and meandering, taking a number of unexpected turns. Everyone begins by discussing each other’s summer reading habits, and along the way a variety of other topics come to the fore, including violence in comics, this summer’s upcoming movie releases, Image comics, sexual explicitness and how much is too much, profanity, the World Cup, and Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staple’s unique way of “giving birth” to certain issues of Saga. There’s a lot of conversation and a lot of fun, so be sure to listen in on what the guys had to say this month at Collected! Mon, 14 Jul 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Summer Reading, Robot Sex, and Pizza We’re deep into July, so that means it’s time for the monthly visit to Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. And this is the second month in a row that the shop’s manager, Jennifer, has coupled The Comics Alternative‘s on-location show with their monthly Collected Talks (an opportunity for customers and staff to get together and share the kind of comics they are reading). The event is a success, with there being more participants than last month. Joining Derek on the podcast this time around are Jennifer and some of her shop employees, Sabrina and (occasionally) Freddy. Also a part of the conversation is stalwart podcast respondent Shea Hennum, and loyal shop customers Laura, Craig, Nick, and David. The conversation is broad and meandering, taking a number of unexpected turns. Everyone begins by discussing each other’s summer reading habits, and along the way a variety of other topics come to the fore, including violence in comics, this summer’s upcoming movie releases, Image comics, sexual explicitness and how much is too much, profanity, the World Cup, and Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staple’s unique way of “giving birth” to certain issues of Saga. There’s a lot of conversation and a lot of fun, so be sure to listen in on what the guys had to say this month at Collected! We’re deep into July, so that means it’s time for the monthly visit to Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. And this is the second month in a row that the shop’s manager, Jennifer, has coupled The Comics Alternative‘s on-location show with their monthly Collected Talks (an opportunity for customers and staff to get together and share the kind of comics they are reading). The event is a success, with there being more participants than last month. Joining Derek on the podcast this time around are Jennifer and some of her shop employees, Sabrina and (occasionally) Freddy. Also a part of the conversation is stalwart podcast respondent Shea Hennum, and loyal shop customers Laura, Craig, Nick, and David. The conversation is broad and meandering, taking a number of unexpected turns. Everyone begins by discussing each other’s summer reading habits, and along the way a variety of other topics come to the fore, including violence in comics, this summer’s upcoming movie releases, Image comics, sexual explicitness and how much is too much, profanity, the World Cup, and Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staple’s unique way of “giving birth” to certain issues of Saga. There’s a lot of conversation and a lot of fun, so be sure to listen in on what the guys had to say this month at Collected!

]]> 5413 yes Episode 91.1 - The Teaching Difficult Texts Panel at HeroesCon 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-91-1.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs bring you a recording of the “Teaching Difficult Texts” panel that was held at HeroesCon a couple of weeks ago. One of the Two Guys, Andy, was a participant on this panel. Joining him in the discussion were Mike Kobre from Queens University and Dana Hayward from HarperCollins. Shawn Daughhetee served as the panel moderator. It’s an engaging panel, focusing on teaching comics and methodological approaches to using controversial texts in the classroom. The panelists touch upon such topics as racial stereotypes, the visualization of violence, and sexual explicitness. This panel recording originally appeared on The Dollar Bin podcast. A very special thanks to Adam Daughhetee and the rest of the Dollar Bin crew for making this recording at the con, and for allowing The Comics Alternative share it with its listeners. Fri, 11 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Our purpose is to educate, not titillate” On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs bring you a recording of the “Teaching Difficult Texts” panel that was held at HeroesCon a couple of weeks ago. One of the Two Guys, Andy, was a participant on this panel. Joining him in the discussion were Mike Kobre from Queens University and Dana Hayward from HarperCollins. Shawn Daughhetee served as the panel moderator. It’s an engaging panel, focusing on teaching comics and methodological approaches to using controversial texts in the classroom. The panelists touch upon such topics as racial stereotypes, the visualization of violence, and sexual explicitness. This panel recording originally appeared on The Dollar Bin podcast. A very special thanks to Adam Daughhetee and the rest of the Dollar Bin crew for making this recording at the con, and for allowing The Comics Alternative share it with its listeners. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs bring you a recording of the “Teaching Difficult Texts” panel that was held at HeroesCon a couple of weeks ago. One of the Two Guys, Andy, was a participant on this panel. Joining him in the discussion were Mike Kobre from Queens University and Dana Hayward from HarperCollins. Shawn Daughhetee served as the panel moderator. It’s an engaging panel, focusing on teaching comics and methodological approaches to using controversial texts in the classroom. The panelists touch upon such topics as racial stereotypes, the visualization of violence, and sexual explicitness. This panel recording originally appeared on The Dollar Bin podcast. A very special thanks to Adam Daughhetee and the rest of the Dollar Bin crew for making this recording at the con, and for allowing The Comics Alternative share it with its listeners.

]]> 4009 yes Interviews - Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews17-Plourde-Michaels.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Andy and Derek are pleased to have on the show Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels, the creative team behind the new self-published series, How I Made the World. Liz and Randy are winners of a 2012 Xeric Award — the last year, in fact, that the Xeric Foundation gave out grants for self-publishing comic books – and they share their experiences applying for the grant, complete with last-minute postage anxieties, and how the award helped to propel their project both financially and for marketing purposes. The Two Guys ask them about the genesis of the series, the protagonist’s links to Liz’s own life experiences, Randy’s artistic inspirations, how the two of them actually met, their marketing strategies for the title, the reasons behind their choosing to self publish, and what the two of them might have in store for future issues of the series. (They already have a lot of material for issue #2 of How I Made the World!) At one point, Derek goes off the deep end with his in-depth Freudian reading of the issue’s core story, “The Monster,” but Andy chooses to stay in more formalistic territory…while both Liz and Randy sit back, amused at their academic antics. How I Made the World is a wonderful new title that might fly under the radar of many readers, which is all the more reason to listen to this engaging interview with the creators. It should inspire you to go out and get a copy. Thu, 10 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Sometimes a smokestack is just a smokestack” On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Andy and Derek are pleased to have on the show Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels, the creative team behind the new self-published series, How I Made the World. Liz and Randy are winners of a 2012 Xeric Award — the last year, in fact, that the Xeric Foundation gave out grants for self-publishing comic books – and they share their experiences applying for the grant, complete with last-minute postage anxieties, and how the award helped to propel their project both financially and for marketing purposes. The Two Guys ask them about the genesis of the series, the protagonist’s links to Liz’s own life experiences, Randy’s artistic inspirations, how the two of them actually met, their marketing strategies for the title, the reasons behind their choosing to self publish, and what the two of them might have in store for future issues of the series. (They already have a lot of material for issue #2 of How I Made the World!) At one point, Derek goes off the deep end with his in-depth Freudian reading of the issue’s core story, “The Monster,” but Andy chooses to stay in more formalistic territory…while both Liz and Randy sit back, amused at their academic antics. How I Made the World is a wonderful new title that might fly under the radar of many readers, which is all the more reason to listen to this engaging interview with the creators. It should inspire you to go out and get a copy. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Andy and Derek are pleased to have on the show Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels, the creative team behind the new self-published series, How I Made the World. Liz and Randy are winners of a 2012 Xeric Award — the last year, in fact, that the Xeric Foundation gave out grants for self-publishing comic books – and they share their experiences applying for the grant, complete with last-minute postage anxieties, and how the award helped to propel their project both financially and for marketing purposes. The Two Guys ask them about the genesis of the series, the protagonist’s links to Liz’s own life experiences, Randy’s artistic inspirations, how the two of them actually met, their marketing strategies for the title, the reasons behind their choosing to self publish, and what the two of them might have in store for future issues of the series. (They already have a lot of material for issue #2 of How I Made the World!) At one point, Derek goes off the deep end with his in-depth Freudian reading of the issue’s core story, “The Monster,” but Andy chooses to stay in more formalistic territory…while both Liz and Randy sit back, amused at their academic antics. How I Made the World is a wonderful new title that might fly under the radar of many readers, which is all the more reason to listen to this engaging interview with the creators. It should inspire you to go out and get a copy.

]]> 4204 no Episode 91 - The July Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-91.mp3 It’s that time of the month for the Two Guys with PhDs…that is, it’s time for the July Previews catalog! On this episode, Andy and Derek take their monthly gander at some of the great comics being solicited in Previews and due out in the next couple of months. All of the major publishers, and many, many of the smaller ones, are represented here, and the guys comment on how this is a particularly fat month when it comes to new and upcoming comics. They begin the show by looking at some of the titles being offered for this year’s Halloween ComicFest, and then they get into the nitty-gritty of the catalog. Some of the titles that they highlight include Brian Wood and Ryan Kelly’s The New York Four and Satoshi Kon’s Opus (Dark Horse), Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez’s The Names #1 and Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s The Wake hardcover (Vertigo/DC Comics), Will Eisner’s Spirit, Vol. 2: Artist’s Edition and Craig Yoe’s The Worst of Eerie Publications (IDW Publishing), Jay Faerber and Scott Godlewski’s Copperhead #1 and Ryan Browne’s God Hates Astronauts #1 (Image Comics), Gary Scott Beatly and Aaron Warner’s Number One #1 (Aazurn Publishing), Roberto Aguirre Sacasa and Robert Hack’s Sabrina #1 (Archie Comics), Hubert and Marie Caillou’s Adrian and the Tree of Secrets and Julie Maroh’s Skandalon (Arsenal Pulp Press), George Perez’s Sirens #1 (BOOM! Studios), Duane Swierczynsky and Keith Burns’s Ex-Con #1 (Dynamite Entertainment), Gilbert Hernandez’s Bumperhead (Drawn and Quarterly), Dash Shaw’s Doctors and Joe Sacco’s Bumf 1: I Buggered the Kaiser (Fantagraphics), Paul Pope and J. T. Petty’s Battling Boy: The Rise of Aurora West and Farel Dalrymple’s The Wrenchies (First Second), Grant Morrison and Frazer Irving’s Annihilator #1 (Legendary Comics), Greg Rucka and Justin Greenwood’s Stumptown: The Case of the King of Clubs #1 (Oni Press), and Jorg Tittle and John Aggs’s Ricky Rouse Has a Gun (SelfMadeHero). And this is just the tip of the solicitation iceberg. You really do have to listen to the entire episode to get the full scope, and warm fuzzy feelings, of this month’s Previews. Wed, 09 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Lots o' Summer Stuff It’s that time of the month for the Two Guys with PhDs…that is, it’s time for the July Previews catalog! On this episode, Andy and Derek take their monthly gander at some of the great comics being solicited in Previews and due out in the next couple of months. All of the major publishers, and many, many of the smaller ones, are represented here, and the guys comment on how this is a particularly fat month when it comes to new and upcoming comics. They begin the show by looking at some of the titles being offered for this year’s Halloween ComicFest, and then they get into the nitty-gritty of the catalog. Some of the titles that they highlight include Brian Wood and Ryan Kelly’s The New York Four and Satoshi Kon’s Opus (Dark Horse), Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez’s The Names #1 and Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s The Wake hardcover (Vertigo/DC Comics), Will Eisner’s Spirit, Vol. 2: Artist’s Edition and Craig Yoe’s The Worst of Eerie Publications (IDW Publishing), Jay Faerber and Scott Godlewski’s Copperhead #1 and Ryan Browne’s God Hates Astronauts #1 (Image Comics), Gary Scott Beatly and Aaron Warner’s Number One #1 (Aazurn Publishing), Roberto Aguirre Sacasa and Robert Hack’s Sabrina #1 (Archie Comics), Hubert and Marie Caillou’s Adrian and the Tree of Secrets and Julie Maroh’s Skandalon (Arsenal Pulp Press), George Perez’s Sirens #1 (BOOM! Studios), Duane Swierczynsky and Keith Burns’s Ex-Con #1 (Dynamite Entertainment), Gilbert Hernandez’s Bumperhead (Drawn and Quarterly), Dash Shaw’s Doctors and Joe Sacco’s Bumf 1: I Buggered the Kaiser (Fantagraphics), Paul Pope and J. T. Petty’s Battling Boy: The Rise of Aurora West and Farel Dalrymple’s The Wrenchies (First Second), Grant Morrison and Frazer Irving’s Annihilator #1 (Legendary Comics), Greg Rucka and Justin Greenwood’s Stumptown: The Case of the King of Clubs #1 (Oni Press), and Jorg Tittle and John Aggs’s Ricky Rouse Has a Gun (SelfMadeHero). And this is just the tip of the solicitation iceberg. You really do have to listen to the entire episode to get the full scope, and warm fuzzy feelings, of this month’s Previews. It’s that time of the month for the Two Guys with PhDs…that is, it’s time for the July Previews catalog! On this episode, Andy and Derek take their monthly gander at some of the great comics being solicited in Previews and due out in the next couple of months. All of the major publishers, and many, many of the smaller ones, are represented here, and the guys comment on how this is a particularly fat month when it comes to new and upcoming comics. They begin the show by looking at some of the titles being offered for this year’s Halloween ComicFest, and then they get into the nitty-gritty of the catalog. Some of the titles that they highlight include Brian Wood and Ryan Kelly’s The New York Four and Satoshi Kon’s Opus (Dark Horse), Peter Milligan and Leandro Fernandez’s The Names #1 and Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s The Wake hardcover (Vertigo/DC Comics), Will Eisner’s Spirit, Vol. 2: Artist’s Edition and Craig Yoe’s The Worst of Eerie Publications (IDW Publishing), Jay Faerber and Scott Godlewski’s Copperhead #1 and Ryan Browne’s God Hates Astronauts #1 (Image Comics), Gary Scott Beatly and Aaron Warner’s Number One #1 (Aazurn Publishing), Roberto Aguirre Sacasa and Robert Hack’s Sabrina #1 (Archie Comics), Hubert and Marie Caillou’s Adrian and the Tree of Secrets and Julie Maroh’s Skandalon (Arsenal Pulp Press), George Perez’s Sirens #1 (BOOM! Studios), Duane Swierczynsky and Keith Burns’s Ex-Con #1 (Dynamite Entertainment), Gilbert Hernandez’s Bumperhead (Drawn and Quarterly), Dash Shaw’s Doctors and Joe Sacco’s Bumf 1: I Buggered the Kaiser (Fantagraphics), Paul Pope and J. T. Petty’s Battling Boy: The Rise of Aurora West and Farel Dalrymple’s The Wrenchies (First Second), Grant Morrison and Frazer Irving’s Annihilator #1 (Legendary Comics), Greg Rucka and Justin Greenwood’s Stumptown: The Case of the King of Clubs #1 (Oni Press), and Jorg Tittle and John Aggs’s Ricky Rouse Has a Gun (SelfMadeHero). And this is just the tip of the solicitation iceberg. You really do have to listen to the entire episode to get the full scope, and warm fuzzy feelings, of this month’s Previews.

]]> 6523 no Interviews - Gene Luen Yang http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews16-Yang.mp3 Andy and Derek are proud to have Gene Luen Yang on the podcast. With the upcoming release of his new book from First Second, The Shadow Hero (illustrated by Sonny Lieu), the Two Guys thought this would be the perfect opportunity to talk with one of their contemporary creator heroes. In this engaging conversation, Gene talks with the guys about the genesis of his Green Turtle, and how the original – an obscure ethnically ambiguous crime fighter from the pages of 1940s’ Blazing Comics — inspired him to delve into the superhero genre. Demonstrating a keen sense of pacing, along with a healthy dose of humor, Yang shows himself adept in action-packed comics, something that the guys comment on throughout the interview. But as Derek and Andy both observe, The Shadow Hero nonetheless bears that unique Gene Yang stamp in wrestling with ethnoracial issues in the U.S., and doing so through the meshing of Chinese folklore and American pop culture. In this way, the book can be read as a thematic companion of such earlier books as Level Up, The Eternal Smile, Boxers and Saints, and of course American Born Chinese (all published by First Second). The Two Guys ask Gene about these earlier books, as well, discussing along the way his views on writing for a young adult audience, his 1997 Xeric Grant for Gordon Yamamoto and the King of the Geeks, and his contributions to the New York Times Magazine‘s “Funny Pages” feature (later collected as Prime Baby). All in all, it’s a super fun conversation…and on top of that, Andy and Derek can now say that they’ve had a National Book Award nominee on The Comics Alternative! Mon, 07 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Super Fun with Gene Andy and Derek are proud to have Gene Luen Yang on the podcast. With the upcoming release of his new book from First Second, The Shadow Hero (illustrated by Sonny Lieu), the Two Guys thought this would be the perfect opportunity to talk with one of their contemporary creator heroes. In this engaging conversation, Gene talks with the guys about the genesis of his Green Turtle, and how the original – an obscure ethnically ambiguous crime fighter from the pages of 1940s’ Blazing Comics — inspired him to delve into the superhero genre. Demonstrating a keen sense of pacing, along with a healthy dose of humor, Yang shows himself adept in action-packed comics, something that the guys comment on throughout the interview. But as Derek and Andy both observe, The Shadow Hero nonetheless bears that unique Gene Yang stamp in wrestling with ethnoracial issues in the U.S., and doing so through the meshing of Chinese folklore and American pop culture. In this way, the book can be read as a thematic companion of such earlier books as Level Up, The Eternal Smile, Boxers and Saints, and of course American Born Chinese (all published by First Second). The Two Guys ask Gene about these earlier books, as well, discussing along the way his views on writing for a young adult audience, his 1997 Xeric Grant for Gordon Yamamoto and the King of the Geeks, and his contributions to the New York Times Magazine‘s “Funny Pages” feature (later collected as Prime Baby). All in all, it’s a super fun conversation…and on top of that, Andy and Derek can now say that they’ve had a National Book Award nominee on The Comics Alternative! Andy and Derek are proud to have Gene Luen Yang on the podcast. With the upcoming release of his new book from First Second, The Shadow Hero (illustrated by Sonny Lieu), the Two Guys thought this would be the perfect opportunity to talk with one of their contemporary creator heroes. In this engaging conversation, Gene talks with the guys about the genesis of his Green Turtle, and how the original – an obscure ethnically ambiguous crime fighter from the pages of 1940s’ Blazing Comics — inspired him to delve into the superhero genre. Demonstrating a keen sense of pacing, along with a healthy dose of humor, Yang shows himself adept in action-packed comics, something that the guys comment on throughout the interview. But as Derek and Andy both observe, The Shadow Hero nonetheless bears that unique Gene Yang stamp in wrestling with ethnoracial issues in the U.S., and doing so through the meshing of Chinese folklore and American pop culture. In this way, the book can be read as a thematic companion of such earlier books as Level Up, The Eternal Smile, Boxers and Saints, and of course American Born Chinese (all published by First Second). The Two Guys ask Gene about these earlier books, as well, discussing along the way his views on writing for a young adult audience, his 1997 Xeric Grant for Gordon Yamamoto and the King of the Geeks, and his contributions to the New York Times Magazine‘s “Funny Pages” feature (later collected as Prime Baby). All in all, it’s a super fun conversation…and on top of that, Andy and Derek can now say that they’ve had a National Book Award nominee on The Comics Alternative!

]]> 5558 no Episode 90 - American-Themed Comics, New and Not-So-New http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-90.mp3 It’s the week of July 4th, and so on this episode of The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs pay homage to the stars and stripes…in comics! Yes, that’s right dear patriotic listener: this week Andy and Derek are focusing only on American-themed comics, new as well as not-so-new. They begin by looking at new recent books where the American project stands front and center. First, they discuss Manifest Destiny, Vol. 1: Flora and Fauna, by Chris Dingess, Matthew Roberts, and Owen Gieni (Image Comics). Both of the guys are bowled over by this first collection and see the series as a great example of American gothic. Next, they turn their attention to the new work by Ilan Stavans and Lalo Alcaraz, A Most Imperfect Union: A Contrarian History of the United States (Basic Books). While the guys applaud the creators’ intentions of creating an alternative or oppositional history, they’re not convinced that the book lives up to its title. In short, they’re hard pressed to find much that is contrary in this contrarian history. But then, after discussing these two new titles, they highlight several of their favorite American-centered comics from years gone by (and some others that are more recent). And what a varied list it is. Andy mentions the following:Strange Fruit, Vol. 1: Uncelebrated Narratives from Black History, by Joel Christan Gill (Fulcrum Publishing); American Flagg!, by Howard Chaykin (Image Comics); Saga of the Swamp Thing, by Alan Moore and Stephen Bessetti (DC Comics); Shade the Changing Man, by Peter Milligan and Chris Bachalo (Vertigo/DC Comics). And Derek briefly discusses several other American-themed titles: Lewis and Clark, by Nick Bertozzi (First Second); The Big Lie, by Rick Veitch and Gary Erskine (Image Comics); R. Crumb’s America, by Robert Crumb (Last Gasp); Uncle Sam, by Steve Darnall and Alex Ross (Vertigo/DC Comics). They could have go on and on with other, similar titles, but there’s only so much you can pack into a single week’s show. So fire up the grill, light up those fireworks, and pledge your allegiance to The Comics Alternative on its special Independence Day episode! Wed, 02 Jul 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal American-Themed Comics, New and Not-So-New It’s the week of July 4th, and so on this episode of The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs pay homage to the stars and stripes…in comics! Yes, that’s right dear patriotic listener: this week Andy and Derek are focusing only on American-themed comics, new as well as not-so-new. They begin by looking at new recent books where the American project stands front and center. First, they discuss Manifest Destiny, Vol. 1: Flora and Fauna, by Chris Dingess, Matthew Roberts, and Owen Gieni (Image Comics). Both of the guys are bowled over by this first collection and see the series as a great example of American gothic. Next, they turn their attention to the new work by Ilan Stavans and Lalo Alcaraz, A Most Imperfect Union: A Contrarian History of the United States (Basic Books). While the guys applaud the creators’ intentions of creating an alternative or oppositional history, they’re not convinced that the book lives up to its title. In short, they’re hard pressed to find much that is contrary in this contrarian history. But then, after discussing these two new titles, they highlight several of their favorite American-centered comics from years gone by (and some others that are more recent). And what a varied list it is. Andy mentions the following:Strange Fruit, Vol. 1: Uncelebrated Narratives from Black History, by Joel Christan Gill (Fulcrum Publishing); American Flagg!, by Howard Chaykin (Image Comics); Saga of the Swamp Thing, by Alan Moore and Stephen Bessetti (DC Comics); Shade the Changing Man, by Peter Milligan and Chris Bachalo (Vertigo/DC Comics). And Derek briefly discusses several other American-themed titles: Lewis and Clark, by Nick Bertozzi (First Second); The Big Lie, by Rick Veitch and Gary Erskine (Image Comics); R. Crumb’s America, by Robert Crumb (Last Gasp); Uncle Sam, by Steve Darnall and Alex Ross (Vertigo/DC Comics). They could have go on and on with other, similar titles, but there’s only so much you can pack into a single week’s show. So fire up the grill, light up those fireworks, and pledge your allegiance to The Comics Alternative on its special Independence Day episode! It’s the week of July 4th, and so on this episode of The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs pay homage to the stars and stripes…in comics! Yes, that’s right dear patriotic listener: this week Andy and Derek are focusing only on American-themed comics, new as well as not-so-new. They begin by looking at new recent books where the American project stands front and center. First, they discuss Manifest Destiny, Vol. 1: Flora and Fauna, by Chris Dingess, Matthew Roberts, and Owen Gieni (Image Comics). Both of the guys are bowled over by this first collection and see the series as a great example of American gothic. Next, they turn their attention to the new work by Ilan Stavans and Lalo Alcaraz, A Most Imperfect Union: A Contrarian History of the United States (Basic Books). While the guys applaud the creators’ intentions of creating an alternative or oppositional history, they’re not convinced that the book lives up to its title. In short, they’re hard pressed to find much that is contrary in this contrarian history. But then, after discussing these two new titles, they highlight several of their favorite American-centered comics from years gone by (and some others that are more recent). And what a varied list it is. Andy mentions the following:Strange Fruit, Vol. 1: Uncelebrated Narratives from Black History, by Joel Christan Gill (Fulcrum Publishing); American Flagg!, by Howard Chaykin (Image Comics); Saga of the Swamp Thing, by Alan Moore and Stephen Bessetti (DC Comics); Shade the Changing Man, by Peter Milligan and Chris Bachalo (Vertigo/DC Comics). And Derek briefly discusses several other American-themed titles: Lewis and Clark, by Nick Bertozzi (First Second); The Big Lie, by Rick Veitch and Gary Erskine (Image Comics); R. Crumb’s America, by Robert Crumb (Last Gasp); Uncle Sam, by Steve Darnall and Alex Ross (Vertigo/DC Comics). They could have go on and on with other, similar titles, but there’s only so much you can pack into a single week’s show. So fire up the grill, light up those fireworks, and pledge your allegiance to The Comics Alternative on its special Independence Day episode!

]]> 5585 no Interviews - Ben Hatke http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews15-Hatke.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interview, Derek and Andy W. talk with Ben Hadke, creator of the Zita the Spacegirl series. Of course they discuss Ben's signature works -- Zita the Spacegirl, Legends of Zita the Spacegirl, and The Return of Zita the Spacegirl (the latter of which was just published by First Second) -- but they also delve into some of his other work, including his upcoming picture book, Julia's House for Lost Creatures (also from First Second). Along the way they discuss the wellspring of Ben's sketchbooking, the origins of Zita, the close links between Ben's art and his family, the appeal of all-age comics, the artist's schedule and philosophy as a speaker, and the many wild and fantastical creatures that populate his books. (Ben, Andy, and Derek also give a shout out to Gina Gagliano at First Second for her unparalleled work as a publicist and for being an all around good person!) The guys have a great time talking with Ben, and in doing so they're able to tap into the excitement and passion that bring life to all of the Zita books. Tue, 01 Jul 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Journeys through the Zitaverse On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interview, Derek and Andy W. talk with Ben Hadke, creator of the Zita the Spacegirl series. Of course they discuss Ben's signature works -- Zita the Spacegirl, Legends of Zita the Spacegirl, and The Return of Zita the Spacegirl (the latter of which was just published by First Second) -- but they also delve into some of his other work, including his upcoming picture book, Julia's House for Lost Creatures (also from First Second). Along the way they discuss the wellspring of Ben's sketchbooking, the origins of Zita, the close links between Ben's art and his family, the appeal of all-age comics, the artist's schedule and philosophy as a speaker, and the many wild and fantastical creatures that populate his books. (Ben, Andy, and Derek also give a shout out to Gina Gagliano at First Second for her unparalleled work as a publicist and for being an all around good person!) The guys have a great time talking with Ben, and in doing so they're able to tap into the excitement and passion that bring life to all of the Zita books. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interview, Derek and Andy W. talk with Ben Hadke, creator of the Zita the Spacegirl series. Of course they discuss Ben's signature works -- Zita the Spacegirl, Legends of Zita the Spacegirl, and The Return of Zita the Spacegirl (the latter of which was just published by First Second) -- but they also delve into some of his other work, including his upcoming picture book, Julia's House for Lost Creatures (also from First Second). Along the way they discuss the wellspring of Ben's sketchbooking, the origins of Zita, the close links between Ben's art and his family, the appeal of all-age comics, the artist's schedule and philosophy as a speaker, and the many wild and fantastical creatures that populate his books. (Ben, Andy, and Derek also give a shout out to Gina Gagliano at First Second for her unparalleled work as a publicist and for being an all around good person!) The guys have a great time talking with Ben, and in doing so they're able to tap into the excitement and passion that bring life to all of the Zita books.

]]> 4529 no Episode 89.1 - Interviews with Creators at HeroesCon 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-89-1.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy shares his experiences last week at the 2014 Heroes Convention in Charlotte, NC. Derek couldn’t make it this year, so Andy fills him in on what he missed and shares his thoughts on the many people he met and the many adventures he had at the event. Most notable are his interviews with various writers and illustrators in Artists Alley, and presented on this podcast. You’ll hear Andy’s conversations with Brian Clevinger, Andy Hirsch, Kyle Starks, Frank Barbiere, Gabriel Dunston, and Max Dowdle. It’s that special one-on-one interaction, a smooth, nougaty combination of intellectual curiosity and personal camaraderie, that you’ve come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs in their never-ending quest for thoughtful comics talk. Fri, 27 Jun 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talk from the Floor On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy shares his experiences last week at the 2014 Heroes Convention in Charlotte, NC. Derek couldn’t make it this year, so Andy fills him in on what he missed and shares his thoughts on the many people he met and the many adventures he had at the event. Most notable are his interviews with various writers and illustrators in Artists Alley, and presented on this podcast. You’ll hear Andy’s conversations with Brian Clevinger, Andy Hirsch, Kyle Starks, Frank Barbiere, Gabriel Dunston, and Max Dowdle. It’s that special one-on-one interaction, a smooth, nougaty combination of intellectual curiosity and personal camaraderie, that you’ve come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs in their never-ending quest for thoughtful comics talk. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy shares his experiences last week at the 2014 Heroes Convention in Charlotte, NC. Derek couldn’t make it this year, so Andy fills him in on what he missed and shares his thoughts on the many people he met and the many adventures he had at the event. Most notable are his interviews with various writers and illustrators in Artists Alley, and presented on this podcast. You’ll hear Andy’s conversations with Brian Clevinger, Andy Hirsch, Kyle Starks, Frank Barbiere, Gabriel Dunston, and Max Dowdle. It’s that special one-on-one interaction, a smooth, nougaty combination of intellectual curiosity and personal camaraderie, that you’ve come to expect from the Two Guys with PhDs in their never-ending quest for thoughtful comics talk.

]]> 3237 no Episode 89 - Reviews of The Amateurs, The Superannuated Man #1, and Star Trek: Harlan Ellison’s The City on the Edge of Forever #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-89.mp3 On this week’s show, Derek and Gene review three new titles. They begin with an unusual story from Conor Stechschulte, The Amateurs (Fantagraphics Books). The guys aren’t entirely sure about the narrative cohesion or the connecting events in this story — and they’re okay with that — but they’re mesmerized by the absurdist, and at times violent, paths this comic takes. This novella-length work is a strange combination of slapstick comedy, slasher horror, and existential angst. Think of Laurel and Hardy meets Waiting for Godot…but with slaughtered livestock. Next the Two Guys move on to the first issue of Ted McKeever’s new miniseries, The Superannuated Man (Image Comics).  They start off by comparing this comic to some of McKeever’s earlier works, such as Eddy Current, Plastics Forks, and Metropol, but see in its detail a more meticulously crafted art that pushes more visual boundaries. In this way, the work is quite similar to last year’s Miniature Jesus, another title with a perspective-skewing feel. What’s more, the guys feel that McKeever does an outstanding job at introducing us to this strange narrative world, providing just enough exposition to grab our attention and propel the  miniseries forward, full-throttle. Finally, Gene and Derek discuss a comic that is sure to make Trekkies happy the world over, Star Trek: Harlan Ellison’s The City on the Edge of Forever: The Original Teleplay #1 (IDW Publishing). Beginning with a few comments on the history behind “The City on the Edge of Forever” – specifically, the controversy surrounding Harlan Ellison’s famously unused original teleplay — they beam into this first issue by looking at the artwork of J. K. Woodward. While Gene isn’t sure that his painterly style is most appropriate for an action-based sci-fi comic, Derek is more won over by the visuals. But they both can agree that this Scott and David Tipton’s adaptation of Ellison’s original teleplay is not only a good story, but a fascinating study in progressive translation: it’s a comic-book adaptation of a text originally intended for an entirely different medium, yet “maladapted” by that original medium and inadvertently giving the original new life through both dramatic prose and now graphic storytelling. Wed, 25 Jun 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Mood. Meat. On this week’s show, Derek and Gene review three new titles. They begin with an unusual story from Conor Stechschulte, The Amateurs (Fantagraphics Books). The guys aren’t entirely sure about the narrative cohesion or the connecting events in this story — and they’re okay with that — but they’re mesmerized by the absurdist, and at times violent, paths this comic takes. This novella-length work is a strange combination of slapstick comedy, slasher horror, and existential angst. Think of Laurel and Hardy meets Waiting for Godot…but with slaughtered livestock. Next the Two Guys move on to the first issue of Ted McKeever’s new miniseries, The Superannuated Man (Image Comics).  They start off by comparing this comic to some of McKeever’s earlier works, such as Eddy Current, Plastics Forks, and Metropol, but see in its detail a more meticulously crafted art that pushes more visual boundaries. In this way, the work is quite similar to last year’s Miniature Jesus, another title with a perspective-skewing feel. What’s more, the guys feel that McKeever does an outstanding job at introducing us to this strange narrative world, providing just enough exposition to grab our attention and propel the  miniseries forward, full-throttle. Finally, Gene and Derek discuss a comic that is sure to make Trekkies happy the world over, Star Trek: Harlan Ellison’s The City on the Edge of Forever: The Original Teleplay #1 (IDW Publishing). Beginning with a few comments on the history behind “The City on the Edge of Forever” – specifically, the controversy surrounding Harlan Ellison’s famously unused original teleplay — they beam into this first issue by looking at the artwork of J. K. Woodward. While Gene isn’t sure that his painterly style is most appropriate for an action-based sci-fi comic, Derek is more won over by the visuals. But they both can agree that this Scott and David Tipton’s adaptation of Ellison’s original teleplay is not only a good story, but a fascinating study in progressive translation: it’s a comic-book adaptation of a text originally intended for an entirely different medium, yet “maladapted” by that original medium and inadvertently giving the original new life through both dramatic prose and now graphic storytelling. On this week’s show, Derek and Gene review three new titles. They begin with an unusual story from Conor Stechschulte, The Amateurs (Fantagraphics Books). The guys aren’t entirely sure about the narrative cohesion or the connecting events in this story — and they’re okay with that — but they’re mesmerized by the absurdist, and at times violent, paths this comic takes. This novella-length work is a strange combination of slapstick comedy, slasher horror, and existential angst. Think of Laurel and Hardy meets Waiting for Godot…but with slaughtered livestock. Next the Two Guys move on to the first issue of Ted McKeever’s new miniseries, The Superannuated Man (Image Comics).  They start off by comparing this comic to some of McKeever’s earlier works, such as Eddy Current, Plastics Forks, and Metropol, but see in its detail a more meticulously crafted art that pushes more visual boundaries. In this way, the work is quite similar to last year’s Miniature Jesus, another title with a perspective-skewing feel. What’s more, the guys feel that McKeever does an outstanding job at introducing us to this strange narrative world, providing just enough exposition to grab our attention and propel the  miniseries forward, full-throttle. Finally, Gene and Derek discuss a comic that is sure to make Trekkies happy the world over, Star Trek: Harlan Ellison’s The City on the Edge of Forever: The Original Teleplay #1 (IDW Publishing). Beginning with a few comments on the history behind “The City on the Edge of Forever” – specifically, the controversy surrounding Harlan Ellison’s famously unused original teleplay — they beam into this first issue by looking at the artwork of J. K. Woodward. While Gene isn’t sure that his painterly style is most appropriate for an action-based sci-fi comic, Derek is more won over by the visuals. But they both can agree that this Scott and David Tipton’s adaptation of Ellison’s original teleplay is not only a good story, but a fascinating study in progressive translation: it’s a comic-book adaptation of a text originally intended for an entirely different medium, yet “maladapted” by that original medium and inadvertently giving the original new life through both dramatic prose and now graphic storytelling.

]]> 5828 no Episode 88.1 - Our June Visit to Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-88-1.mp3 It’s time for another on-location show at Derek’s comic shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. For the June visit, he is joined by a variety of shop employees and customers for a comics discussion free-for-all. This month the store manager, Jennifer Wait, arranged the shop’s monthly “Collected Talks” meeting — where customers come in and talk about the kind of comics they are reading and would like to recommend to others — to take place along with The Comics Alternative‘s monthly visit. Taking part in the discussion is Jennifer, the store’s assistant manager, Freddy Ruiz, and two of Collected’s loyal customers, Craig and John. Also joining in on the talk is former Collected employee and friend of the show, Shea Hennum. Shea used to be a regular on the podcast’s on-location episodes, but since leaving Collected in January, he hasn’t been able to be a part of things. He makes up for the absence, and with a vengeance, with a barrage of insights, manifestos, and bizarre commentary. Despite the detours into weirdness, and an occasion off-topic conversation here and there, everyone has a good time sharing their recent reading lists and observations about contemporary comics. Fri, 20 Jun 2014 13:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “I know what baby flesh tastes like.” It’s time for another on-location show at Derek’s comic shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. For the June visit, he is joined by a variety of shop employees and customers for a comics discussion free-for-all. This month the store manager, Jennifer Wait, arranged the shop’s monthly “Collected Talks” meeting — where customers come in and talk about the kind of comics they are reading and would like to recommend to others — to take place along with The Comics Alternative‘s monthly visit. Taking part in the discussion is Jennifer, the store’s assistant manager, Freddy Ruiz, and two of Collected’s loyal customers, Craig and John. Also joining in on the talk is former Collected employee and friend of the show, Shea Hennum. Shea used to be a regular on the podcast’s on-location episodes, but since leaving Collected in January, he hasn’t been able to be a part of things. He makes up for the absence, and with a vengeance, with a barrage of insights, manifestos, and bizarre commentary. Despite the detours into weirdness, and an occasion off-topic conversation here and there, everyone has a good time sharing their recent reading lists and observations about contemporary comics. It’s time for another on-location show at Derek’s comic shop, Collected Comics and Games in Plano, TX. For the June visit, he is joined by a variety of shop employees and customers for a comics discussion free-for-all. This month the store manager, Jennifer Wait, arranged the shop’s monthly “Collected Talks” meeting — where customers come in and talk about the kind of comics they are reading and would like to recommend to others — to take place along with The Comics Alternative‘s monthly visit. Taking part in the discussion is Jennifer, the store’s assistant manager, Freddy Ruiz, and two of Collected’s loyal customers, Craig and John. Also joining in on the talk is former Collected employee and friend of the show, Shea Hennum. Shea used to be a regular on the podcast’s on-location episodes, but since leaving Collected in January, he hasn’t been able to be a part of things. He makes up for the absence, and with a vengeance, with a barrage of insights, manifestos, and bizarre commentary. Despite the detours into weirdness, and an occasion off-topic conversation here and there, everyone has a good time sharing their recent reading lists and observations about contemporary comics.

]]> 5321 yes Episode 88 - Reviews of Miracleman, Book 1, Purgatory Pub, Book 1, and Worse Things Happen at Sea http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-88.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three new and unique titles. They begin by looking at Miracleman, Book 1: A Dream of Flying, the first trade in Marvel’s current reprinting of the early series by Alan Moore…AKA, “The Original Writer.” While Andy had read its first run in the U.S. through the Eclipse line, this was Derek’s first time actually reading Miracleman. (It’s one of those titles that he knew about and always intended to read, but never got around to…especially being out of print.) The guys primarily focus on the main storyline, written by Moore with art by Alan Davis and Garry Leach, but they also discuss the supplemental material, including interviews, sketches, and installments of Mick Anglo’s Golden Age Marvelman strips. Throughout their discussion they keep coming back to a central question: Does Miracleman still hold up today? The Two Guys think so, but with some hesitations. While they definitely find the comic valuable and fascinating as a historical document, much of the book’s edginess has been tempered due to the titles original success. Many comics now have been following Alan Moore’s lead, so much so that Miracleman now doesn’t seem anything new. But for it’s time, it definitely was, setting the stage for the more sophisticated comics Moore would go on to write in the years to come. Next, Derek and Andy look at Gabriel Dunston’s Purgatory Pub, Book 1. This is a brand new self-published title, and it was a successful Kickstarter campaign.  The book is a metaphysical dialogue between Heaven and Hell, one that you might imagine being created by an underground comix artist with a theological bent. There’s an angel and there’s a devil, and the two don’t sit on anyone’s shoulder arguing their prospective cases, but instead hang out in pubs, visit each other’s neighborhoods, and go to motivational rallies held by none other than Lucifer himself. The Guys want to send out a special thanks to the book’s creator, Gabriel Dunston, who was kind enough to send them copies of his new comic. Finally, the guys discuss a very different kind of “comic,” Kellie Strøm’s Worse Things Happen at Sea (Nobrow Press). This book is part of the publisher’s Leporello series, illustrated works, according to the book’s back cover, “aimed to push the boundaries of print and illustration. Some are educational, all are beautiful.” Derek and Andy specifically focus on the “boundary pushing” aspects of Strøm’s work. Worse Things Happen at Sea is a double-sided 136 centimeter panorama, and with no clear separation between “panels.” So the guys spend a lot of time wondering if they could call this book a comic, and if so, what does that say about the flexibility and the stability of the medium? This panorama is a lush, beautifully rendered “story” — Derek argues that it’s somewhat a narrative, Andy isn’t entirely convinced — of elaborate sea creatures attacking seafaring vessels throughout nautical history. It reminds the guys of similarly medium-bending “comics” such as Joe Sacco’s The Great War: July 1, 1916: The First Day of the Battle of the Somme (which came out from W.W. Norton last year), and Helge Reumann and Xavier Robel’s, Elvis Road (2007, Buenaventura Press). So in this episode of The Comics Alternative, you get not just in-depth critiques, but also theoretical musings, as well. What a bargain!! Wed, 18 Jun 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Miracles, Metaphysics, and Comics Quandaries On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three new and unique titles. They begin by looking at Miracleman, Book 1: A Dream of Flying, the first trade in Marvel’s current reprinting of the early series by Alan Moore…AKA, “The Original Writer.” While Andy had read its first run in the U.S. through the Eclipse line, this was Derek’s first time actually reading Miracleman. (It’s one of those titles that he knew about and always intended to read, but never got around to…especially being out of print.) The guys primarily focus on the main storyline, written by Moore with art by Alan Davis and Garry Leach, but they also discuss the supplemental material, including interviews, sketches, and installments of Mick Anglo’s Golden Age Marvelman strips. Throughout their discussion they keep coming back to a central question: Does Miracleman still hold up today? The Two Guys think so, but with some hesitations. While they definitely find the comic valuable and fascinating as a historical document, much of the book’s edginess has been tempered due to the titles original success. Many comics now have been following Alan Moore’s lead, so much so that Miracleman now doesn’t seem anything new. But for it’s time, it definitely was, setting the stage for the more sophisticated comics Moore would go on to write in the years to come. Next, Derek and Andy look at Gabriel Dunston’s Purgatory Pub, Book 1. This is a brand new self-published title, and it was a successful Kickstarter campaign.  The book is a metaphysical dialogue between Heaven and Hell, one that you might imagine being created by an underground comix artist with a theological bent. There’s an angel and there’s a devil, and the two don’t sit on anyone’s shoulder arguing their prospective cases, but instead hang out in pubs, visit each other’s neighborhoods, and go to motivational rallies held by none other than Lucifer himself. The Guys want to send out a special thanks to the book’s creator, Gabriel Dunston, who was kind enough to send them copies of his new comic. Finally, the guys discuss a very different kind of “comic,” Kellie Strøm’s Worse Things Happen at Sea (Nobrow Press). This book is part of the publisher’s Leporello series, illustrated works, according to the book’s back cover, “aimed to push the boundaries of print and illustration. Some are educational, all are beautiful.” Derek and Andy specifically focus on the “boundary pushing” aspects of Strøm’s work. Worse Things Happen at Sea is a double-sided 136 centimeter panorama, and with no clear separation between “panels.” So the guys spend a lot of time wondering if they could call this book a comic, and if so, what does that say about the flexibility and the stability of the medium? This panorama is a lush, beautifully rendered “story” — Derek argues that it’s somewhat a narrative, Andy isn’t entirely convinced — of elaborate sea creatures attacking seafaring vessels throughout nautical history. It reminds the guys of similarly medium-bending “comics” such as Joe Sacco’s The Great War: July 1, 1916: The First Day of the Battle of the Somme (which came out from W.W. Norton last year), and Helge Reumann and Xavier Robel’s, Elvis Road (2007, Buenaventura Press). So in this episode of The Comics Alternative, you get not just in-depth critiques, but also theoretical musings, as well. What a bargain!! On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three new and unique titles. They begin by looking at Miracleman, Book 1: A Dream of Flying, the first trade in Marvel’s current reprinting of the early series by Alan Moore…AKA, “The Original Writer.” While Andy had read its first run in the U.S. through the Eclipse line, this was Derek’s first time actually reading Miracleman. (It’s one of those titles that he knew about and always intended to read, but never got around to…especially being out of print.) The guys primarily focus on the main storyline, written by Moore with art by Alan Davis and Garry Leach, but they also discuss the supplemental material, including interviews, sketches, and installments of Mick Anglo’s Golden Age Marvelman strips. Throughout their discussion they keep coming back to a central question: Does Miracleman still hold up today? The Two Guys think so, but with some hesitations. While they definitely find the comic valuable and fascinating as a historical document, much of the book’s edginess has been tempered due to the titles original success. Many comics now have been following Alan Moore’s lead, so much so that Miracleman now doesn’t seem anything new. But for it’s time, it definitely was, setting the stage for the more sophisticated comics Moore would go on to write in the years to come. Next, Derek and Andy look at Gabriel Dunston’s Purgatory Pub, Book 1. This is a brand new self-published title, and it was a successful Kickstarter campaign.  The book is a metaphysical dialogue between Heaven and Hell, one that you might imagine being created by an underground comix artist with a theological bent. There’s an angel and there’s a devil, and the two don’t sit on anyone’s shoulder arguing their prospective cases, but instead hang out in pubs, visit each other’s neighborhoods, and go to motivational rallies held by none other than Lucifer himself. The Guys want to send out a special thanks to the book’s creator, Gabriel Dunston, who was kind enough to send them copies of his new comic. Finally, the guys discuss a very different kind of “comic,” Kellie Strøm’s Worse Things Happen at Sea (Nobrow Press). This book is part of the publisher’s Leporello series, illustrated works, according to the book’s back cover, “aimed to push the boundaries of print and illustration. Some are educational, all are beautiful.” Derek and Andy specifically focus on the “boundary pushing” aspects of Strøm’s work. Worse Things Happen at Sea is a double-sided 136 centimeter panorama, and with no clear separation between “panels.” So the guys spend a lot of time wondering if they could call this book a comic, and if so, what does that say about the flexibility and the stability of the medium? This panorama is a lush, beautifully rendered “story” — Derek argues that it’s somewhat a narrative, Andy isn’t entirely convinced — of elaborate sea creatures attacking seafaring vessels throughout nautical history. It reminds the guys of similarly medium-bending “comics” such as Joe Sacco’s The Great War: July 1, 1916: The First Day of the Battle of the Somme (which came out from W.W. Norton last year), and Helge Reumann and Xavier Robel’s, Elvis Road (2007, Buenaventura Press). So in this episode of The Comics Alternative, you get not just in-depth critiques, but also theoretical musings, as well. What a bargain!!

]]> 6113 no Episode 87.1 - A Roundtable Discussion on Getting and Keeping Comics Readers http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-87-1.mp3 The Two Guys are back with another roundtable discussion, this one with John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast. For this special episode, the topic concerns readership: the various strategies publishers use to get and retain comics readers. Andy, Derek, and John speculate on the kind of marketing maneuvers that that seem to work, which ones are reader-friendly, which strategies undermine or at least don’t bode well for the industry, and which are just downright annoying.  The guys discuss everything from $1 first issues, variant covers, series renumbering, switching creative teams, crossover events, free digital issues, over-hyping storylines, and high-end special collectors’ editions. They even bring up the recent acquisition of ComiXology by Amazon.com and how changes to digital retailing might help, or perhaps even hinder, sales. All in all it’s an engaging conversation, running over an hour and forty-five minutes. Unlike many contemporary comics, you certainly get your money’s worth in this special episode of The Comics Alternative. Just the thing to start off your summer! Tue, 17 Jun 2014 13:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal No Shenanigans, Please The Two Guys are back with another roundtable discussion, this one with John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast. For this special episode, the topic concerns readership: the various strategies publishers use to get and retain comics readers. Andy, Derek, and John speculate on the kind of marketing maneuvers that that seem to work, which ones are reader-friendly, which strategies undermine or at least don’t bode well for the industry, and which are just downright annoying.  The guys discuss everything from $1 first issues, variant covers, series renumbering, switching creative teams, crossover events, free digital issues, over-hyping storylines, and high-end special collectors’ editions. They even bring up the recent acquisition of ComiXology by Amazon.com and how changes to digital retailing might help, or perhaps even hinder, sales. All in all it’s an engaging conversation, running over an hour and forty-five minutes. Unlike many contemporary comics, you certainly get your money’s worth in this special episode of The Comics Alternative. Just the thing to start off your summer! The Two Guys are back with another roundtable discussion, this one with John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast. For this special episode, the topic concerns readership: the various strategies publishers use to get and retain comics readers. Andy, Derek, and John speculate on the kind of marketing maneuvers that that seem to work, which ones are reader-friendly, which strategies undermine or at least don’t bode well for the industry, and which are just downright annoying.  The guys discuss everything from $1 first issues, variant covers, series renumbering, switching creative teams, crossover events, free digital issues, over-hyping storylines, and high-end special collectors’ editions. They even bring up the recent acquisition of ComiXology by Amazon.com and how changes to digital retailing might help, or perhaps even hinder, sales. All in all it’s an engaging conversation, running over an hour and forty-five minutes. Unlike many contemporary comics, you certainly get your money’s worth in this special episode of The Comics Alternative. Just the thing to start off your summer!

]]> 7175 no Episode 87 - A Publisher Spotlight on Dynamite’s Gold Key Titles http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-87.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) are back with another Publisher Spotlight episode. This time they are focusing on Dynamite Entertainment, specifically the new Gold Key comics that they have been reviving: Turok: Dinosaur Hunter, by Greg Pak and Mirko Colak; Magnus: Robot Fighter, by Fred Van Lente and Cory Smith; Solar: Man of the Atom, by Frank J. Barbiere and Joe Bennett; and Doctor Spektor: Master of the Occult, by Mark Waid and Neil Edwards. They discuss the new series in the order in which they’ve been introduced, and the guys even comment on Dynamite’s strategy of staggering releases and not just publishing everything at once, much like Valiant did with their new revived titles a couple of years ago. Andy is more familiar with the original Gold Key comics, at least most of them, than Derek, so when they can they point out the similarities and differences between the recent comics and their earlier manifestations from Gold Key, Valiant, Acclaim, and Dark Horse.  The guys definitely have their preferences — e.g., they love Van Lente’s humor in Magnus, they appreciate both Van Lente and Waid’s send up of reality television, they’re curious where Barbiere is going with Solar’s daughter, and while they’re not big fantasy/Conan fans, they do like what Pak and Colak have done with Turok — and much of this comes out in their discussion. Overall, they really like what Dynamite is doing with their recent revival and look forward to seeing how it unfolds…and how things may all come together (as we are teased in the first issue of Doctor Spektor). Plus, the guys share listener mail that they’ve recently received. Keep ‘em coming! Wed, 11 Jun 2014 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Same As It Ever Was? The Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) are back with another Publisher Spotlight episode. This time they are focusing on Dynamite Entertainment, specifically the new Gold Key comics that they have been reviving: Turok: Dinosaur Hunter, by Greg Pak and Mirko Colak; Magnus: Robot Fighter, by Fred Van Lente and Cory Smith; Solar: Man of the Atom, by Frank J. Barbiere and Joe Bennett; and Doctor Spektor: Master of the Occult, by Mark Waid and Neil Edwards. They discuss the new series in the order in which they’ve been introduced, and the guys even comment on Dynamite’s strategy of staggering releases and not just publishing everything at once, much like Valiant did with their new revived titles a couple of years ago. Andy is more familiar with the original Gold Key comics, at least most of them, than Derek, so when they can they point out the similarities and differences between the recent comics and their earlier manifestations from Gold Key, Valiant, Acclaim, and Dark Horse.  The guys definitely have their preferences — e.g., they love Van Lente’s humor in Magnus, they appreciate both Van Lente and Waid’s send up of reality television, they’re curious where Barbiere is going with Solar’s daughter, and while they’re not big fantasy/Conan fans, they do like what Pak and Colak have done with Turok — and much of this comes out in their discussion. Overall, they really like what Dynamite is doing with their recent revival and look forward to seeing how it unfolds…and how things may all come together (as we are teased in the first issue of Doctor Spektor). Plus, the guys share listener mail that they’ve recently received. Keep ‘em coming! The Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) are back with another Publisher Spotlight episode. This time they are focusing on Dynamite Entertainment, specifically the new Gold Key comics that they have been reviving: Turok: Dinosaur Hunter, by Greg Pak and Mirko Colak; Magnus: Robot Fighter, by Fred Van Lente and Cory Smith; Solar: Man of the Atom, by Frank J. Barbiere and Joe Bennett; and Doctor Spektor: Master of the Occult, by Mark Waid and Neil Edwards. They discuss the new series in the order in which they’ve been introduced, and the guys even comment on Dynamite’s strategy of staggering releases and not just publishing everything at once, much like Valiant did with their new revived titles a couple of years ago. Andy is more familiar with the original Gold Key comics, at least most of them, than Derek, so when they can they point out the similarities and differences between the recent comics and their earlier manifestations from Gold Key, Valiant, Acclaim, and Dark Horse.  The guys definitely have their preferences — e.g., they love Van Lente’s humor in Magnus, they appreciate both Van Lente and Waid’s send up of reality television, they’re curious where Barbiere is going with Solar’s daughter, and while they’re not big fantasy/Conan fans, they do like what Pak and Colak have done with Turok — and much of this comes out in their discussion. Overall, they really like what Dynamite is doing with their recent revival and look forward to seeing how it unfolds…and how things may all come together (as we are teased in the first issue of Doctor Spektor). Plus, the guys share listener mail that they’ve recently received. Keep ‘em coming!

]]> 5141 no Episode 86.1 - A Roundtable Discussion on Trade Waiting http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-86-1.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek are joined by the guys at the podcast Comics for Fun and Profit for a lively discussion on trade waiting. They discuss the pros and cons of buying single comic-book issues, the reasons why you may want to wait for a trade instead of getting the monthlies, which current titles work well serialized and which are much better presented in one longer story, and how their personal buying and reading habits affect their preferences for trade editions. This is the first time these two podcasts have experienced a “crossover event,” and given the fun everyone had, it won’t be their last. Fri, 06 Jun 2014 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Waiting Is the Hardest Part On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek are joined by the guys at the podcast Comics for Fun and Profit for a lively discussion on trade waiting. They discuss the pros and cons of buying single comic-book issues, the reasons why you may want to wait for a trade instead of getting the monthlies, which current titles work well serialized and which are much better presented in one longer story, and how their personal buying and reading habits affect their preferences for trade editions. This is the first time these two podcasts have experienced a “crossover event,” and given the fun everyone had, it won’t be their last. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek are joined by the guys at the podcast Comics for Fun and Profit for a lively discussion on trade waiting. They discuss the pros and cons of buying single comic-book issues, the reasons why you may want to wait for a trade instead of getting the monthlies, which current titles work well serialized and which are much better presented in one longer story, and how their personal buying and reading habits affect their preferences for trade editions. This is the first time these two podcasts have experienced a “crossover event,” and given the fun everyone had, it won’t be their last.

]]> 5710 no Episode 86 - The June Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-86.mp3 It’s the beginning of the month, and that means it’s time again for Derek and Andy to take a gander at the latest Previews catalog. In June, the guys notice a whole slew of upcoming releases to anticipate, including new series and books from Dark Horse (the new Dark Horse Presents series, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirits of the Dead, and Pop), DC/Vertigo (Multiversity and Punk Rock Jesus: Deluxe Edition), IDW (Cerebus: High Society, Digital Audio/Visual Experience), Image (The Fade Out, Imperial, and Displaced Persons), Abstract Studios (SIP Kids), BOOM!/Archaia (The Collector), Dynamite (Terminal Hero and Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers), Drawn and Quarterly (Earthling), Fantagraphics (Love and Rockets: New Stoires #7 and Wandering Son, Vol. 7), First Second (How the World Was: A California Childhood), and Liveright (Kill My Mother). Also in this episode, Andy avoids Dynamite’s Steampunk Battlestar Galactica: 1880 like the plague, Derek is called out on his strict “no li’l comics” policy, and the Two Guys learn that they are embraced by the Internet’s spanking community. Wed, 04 Jun 2014 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Some things I would prostitute for, and some things I would not” It’s the beginning of the month, and that means it’s time again for Derek and Andy to take a gander at the latest Previews catalog. In June, the guys notice a whole slew of upcoming releases to anticipate, including new series and books from Dark Horse (the new Dark Horse Presents series, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirits of the Dead, and Pop), DC/Vertigo (Multiversity and Punk Rock Jesus: Deluxe Edition), IDW (Cerebus: High Society, Digital Audio/Visual Experience), Image (The Fade Out, Imperial, and Displaced Persons), Abstract Studios (SIP Kids), BOOM!/Archaia (The Collector), Dynamite (Terminal Hero and Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers), Drawn and Quarterly (Earthling), Fantagraphics (Love and Rockets: New Stoires #7 and Wandering Son, Vol. 7), First Second (How the World Was: A California Childhood), and Liveright (Kill My Mother). Also in this episode, Andy avoids Dynamite’s Steampunk Battlestar Galactica: 1880 like the plague, Derek is called out on his strict “no li’l comics” policy, and the Two Guys learn that they are embraced by the Internet’s spanking community. It’s the beginning of the month, and that means it’s time again for Derek and Andy to take a gander at the latest Previews catalog. In June, the guys notice a whole slew of upcoming releases to anticipate, including new series and books from Dark Horse (the new Dark Horse Presents series, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirits of the Dead, and Pop), DC/Vertigo (Multiversity and Punk Rock Jesus: Deluxe Edition), IDW (Cerebus: High Society, Digital Audio/Visual Experience), Image (The Fade Out, Imperial, and Displaced Persons), Abstract Studios (SIP Kids), BOOM!/Archaia (The Collector), Dynamite (Terminal Hero and Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers), Drawn and Quarterly (Earthling), Fantagraphics (Love and Rockets: New Stoires #7 and Wandering Son, Vol. 7), First Second (How the World Was: A California Childhood), and Liveright (Kill My Mother). Also in this episode, Andy avoids Dynamite’s Steampunk Battlestar Galactica: 1880 like the plague, Derek is called out on his strict “no li’l comics” policy, and the Two Guys learn that they are embraced by the Internet’s spanking community.

]]> 5708 no Interviews - More Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews14-Yoe.mp3 For this interview show, Andy and Derek go down the rabbit hole in another conversation with the ever-talented, ever-entertaining Craig Yoe. They primarily discuss Craig’s latest projects, Alice in Comicland and the new Weird Love series (both from IDW Publishing), but they also bring up his other books (such as Comics about Cartoonists, Haunted Horror, The Best of Sexology, and Little Penis: Oh, the Places You’ll Grow!). They spend a lot of time talking about the various comics in the new Alice book, highlighting the more straight-laced adaptations, such as Chad Grothkoph’s “Alice Through the Looking-Glass,” classic parodies like Harvey Kurtzman and Jack Davis’s “Alice in Wonderland!”, as well as the truly bizarre and borderline-disturbing translations, e.g., Warren Kremer’s “Little Max Meets Alice in Wonderland” and Serge S. Sabarsky and George O. Muhlfield’s “Alice on Monkey Island.” After that things get a bit weird…with Weird Love! Craig discusses his new bimonthly series, compiled with his wife, Clizia Gussoni, and the inherently strange nature of classic romance comics. With titles such as “I Fell for a Commie,” “Love of a Lunatic,” and “You Also Snore Darling,” the guys have no problem in generating — and degenerating — offbeat and irreverent conversation. The several Golden and Silver Age stories collected in this first issue of Weird Love cover such topics as sexual politics, misogyny, the women’s liberation movement, Joe Gill’s cultural conservatism, bald creepy guys, and spanking. So get ready to step through the podcasting looking-glass with this sick, kinky, and bizarro conversation with one of comics’ inimitable figures. And remember: Just say “Yo!” to Yoe! Fri, 30 May 2014 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “You can’t go wrong with booty” For this interview show, Andy and Derek go down the rabbit hole in another conversation with the ever-talented, ever-entertaining Craig Yoe. They primarily discuss Craig’s latest projects, Alice in Comicland and the new Weird Love series (both from IDW Publishing), but they also bring up his other books (such as Comics about Cartoonists, Haunted Horror, The Best of Sexology, and Little Penis: Oh, the Places You’ll Grow!). They spend a lot of time talking about the various comics in the new Alice book, highlighting the more straight-laced adaptations, such as Chad Grothkoph’s “Alice Through the Looking-Glass,” classic parodies like Harvey Kurtzman and Jack Davis’s “Alice in Wonderland!”, as well as the truly bizarre and borderline-disturbing translations, e.g., Warren Kremer’s “Little Max Meets Alice in Wonderland” and Serge S. Sabarsky and George O. Muhlfield’s “Alice on Monkey Island.” After that things get a bit weird…with Weird Love! Craig discusses his new bimonthly series, compiled with his wife, Clizia Gussoni, and the inherently strange nature of classic romance comics. With titles such as “I Fell for a Commie,” “Love of a Lunatic,” and “You Also Snore Darling,” the guys have no problem in generating — and degenerating — offbeat and irreverent conversation. The several Golden and Silver Age stories collected in this first issue of Weird Love cover such topics as sexual politics, misogyny, the women’s liberation movement, Joe Gill’s cultural conservatism, bald creepy guys, and spanking. So get ready to step through the podcasting looking-glass with this sick, kinky, and bizarro conversation with one of comics’ inimitable figures. And remember: Just say “Yo!” to Yoe! For this interview show, Andy and Derek go down the rabbit hole in another conversation with the ever-talented, ever-entertaining Craig Yoe. They primarily discuss Craig’s latest projects, Alice in Comicland and the new Weird Love series (both from IDW Publishing), but they also bring up his other books (such as Comics about Cartoonists, Haunted Horror, The Best of Sexology, and Little Penis: Oh, the Places You’ll Grow!). They spend a lot of time talking about the various comics in the new Alice book, highlighting the more straight-laced adaptations, such as Chad Grothkoph’s “Alice Through the Looking-Glass,” classic parodies like Harvey Kurtzman and Jack Davis’s “Alice in Wonderland!”, as well as the truly bizarre and borderline-disturbing translations, e.g., Warren Kremer’s “Little Max Meets Alice in Wonderland” and Serge S. Sabarsky and George O. Muhlfield’s “Alice on Monkey Island.” After that things get a bit weird…with Weird Love! Craig discusses his new bimonthly series, compiled with his wife, Clizia Gussoni, and the inherently strange nature of classic romance comics. With titles such as “I Fell for a Commie,” “Love of a Lunatic,” and “You Also Snore Darling,” the guys have no problem in generating — and degenerating — offbeat and irreverent conversation. The several Golden and Silver Age stories collected in this first issue of Weird Love cover such topics as sexual politics, misogyny, the women’s liberation movement, Joe Gill’s cultural conservatism, bald creepy guys, and spanking. So get ready to step through the podcasting looking-glass with this sick, kinky, and bizarro conversation with one of comics’ inimitable figures. And remember: Just say “Yo!” to Yoe!

]]> 6393 yes Episode 85 - Reviews of Simon and Kirby: Horror! and Trees #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-85.mp3 It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for your weekly visit from the doctors! This week on the show the Two Guys with PhDs review two new titles. First, they look at the latest in Titan Books’ Simon and Kirby Library series, Simon and Kirby: Horror! This beautiful volume collects all of the Black Magic and The Strange World of Your Dreams (Prize Comics) stories that Joe Simon and Jack Kirby had a hand in, in one form or another, published between 1950 and 1954. Many of these comics have been collected before — for example, DC’s brief reissuing of Black Magic between 1973-1975 and Craig Yoe’s The Strange World of Your Dreams collection that came out last year — but this is the first time all of the Simon and Kirby contributions have been brought all together and in chronological order. As Andy and Derek point out, there’s some wonderful stuff in this collection, macabre stories in the vein of Rod Serling’s Twilight Zone and the creepiest of Hitchcock. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to issue #1 of Trees, written by Warren Ellis with art by Jason Howard. This is an intriguing first issue, one that teases…but in a good way. The guys are particularly pleased with this latest effort from Ellis, in that they’ve been wanting more original and ambitious (and non-mainstream) stories from him, as demonstrated in Transmetropolitan, The Authority, Planetary, and Desolation Jones. They feel that Trees promises to follow in this tradition. Wed, 28 May 2014 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Send Us Your Dreams It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for your weekly visit from the doctors! This week on the show the Two Guys with PhDs review two new titles. First, they look at the latest in Titan Books’ Simon and Kirby Library series, Simon and Kirby: Horror! This beautiful volume collects all of the Black Magic and The Strange World of Your Dreams (Prize Comics) stories that Joe Simon and Jack Kirby had a hand in, in one form or another, published between 1950 and 1954. Many of these comics have been collected before — for example, DC’s brief reissuing of Black Magic between 1973-1975 and Craig Yoe’s The Strange World of Your Dreams collection that came out last year — but this is the first time all of the Simon and Kirby contributions have been brought all together and in chronological order. As Andy and Derek point out, there’s some wonderful stuff in this collection, macabre stories in the vein of Rod Serling’s Twilight Zone and the creepiest of Hitchcock. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to issue #1 of Trees, written by Warren Ellis with art by Jason Howard. This is an intriguing first issue, one that teases…but in a good way. The guys are particularly pleased with this latest effort from Ellis, in that they’ve been wanting more original and ambitious (and non-mainstream) stories from him, as demonstrated in Transmetropolitan, The Authority, Planetary, and Desolation Jones. They feel that Trees promises to follow in this tradition. It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for your weekly visit from the doctors! This week on the show the Two Guys with PhDs review two new titles. First, they look at the latest in Titan Books’ Simon and Kirby Library series, Simon and Kirby: Horror! This beautiful volume collects all of the Black Magic and The Strange World of Your Dreams (Prize Comics) stories that Joe Simon and Jack Kirby had a hand in, in one form or another, published between 1950 and 1954. Many of these comics have been collected before — for example, DC’s brief reissuing of Black Magic between 1973-1975 and Craig Yoe’s The Strange World of Your Dreams collection that came out last year — but this is the first time all of the Simon and Kirby contributions have been brought all together and in chronological order. As Andy and Derek point out, there’s some wonderful stuff in this collection, macabre stories in the vein of Rod Serling’s Twilight Zone and the creepiest of Hitchcock. Next, the Two Guys turn their attention to issue #1 of Trees, written by Warren Ellis with art by Jason Howard. This is an intriguing first issue, one that teases…but in a good way. The guys are particularly pleased with this latest effort from Ellis, in that they’ve been wanting more original and ambitious (and non-mainstream) stories from him, as demonstrated in Transmetropolitan, The Authority, Planetary, and Desolation Jones. They feel that Trees promises to follow in this tradition.

]]> 5547 no Episode 84 - Reviews of Andre the Giant, Shackleton, and Southern Bastards #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-84.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles, and boy, do they have great time! They begin with Box Brown’s new graphic biography from First Second, Andre the Giant: Life and Legend. While neither of the Two Guys are big professional wrestling fans, they did grow up in an era where Andre the Giant was a significant cultural figure, covered in news programs, starring in films and television series, and appearing on The Tonight Show and Late Night with David Letterman. Next they look at another historically based comic, also published by First Second: Shackleton: Antarctic Odyssey, by Nick Bertozzi. This work focuses on the expedition that Ernest Shackleton took to the South Pole between 1914 and 1916, intending to traverse the Antarctic on foot. As the guys point out, this is another of Bertozzi’s comics about historical explorers, a previous title being 2011′s Lewis and Clark (also from First Second). Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a fun discussion — beginning with references to a dog taking a dump — of the new series from Jason Aaron and Jason Latour, Southern Bastards (Image Comics). Both of the guys are familiar with the Southern setting serving as the backdrop of this comic — Derek is from Charlotte, NC, and Andy has been living in South Carolina for a number of years — and they can relate to where the two Jasons are going. Derek, in particular, is excited to see Aaron back on a creator-owned, non-superhero title, and both are enthusiastically on board for what appears to be another great Image series. Wed, 21 May 2014 14:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Shoeshine Boy On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles, and boy, do they have great time! They begin with Box Brown’s new graphic biography from First Second, Andre the Giant: Life and Legend. While neither of the Two Guys are big professional wrestling fans, they did grow up in an era where Andre the Giant was a significant cultural figure, covered in news programs, starring in films and television series, and appearing on The Tonight Show and Late Night with David Letterman. Next they look at another historically based comic, also published by First Second: Shackleton: Antarctic Odyssey, by Nick Bertozzi. This work focuses on the expedition that Ernest Shackleton took to the South Pole between 1914 and 1916, intending to traverse the Antarctic on foot. As the guys point out, this is another of Bertozzi’s comics about historical explorers, a previous title being 2011′s Lewis and Clark (also from First Second). Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a fun discussion — beginning with references to a dog taking a dump — of the new series from Jason Aaron and Jason Latour, Southern Bastards (Image Comics). Both of the guys are familiar with the Southern setting serving as the backdrop of this comic — Derek is from Charlotte, NC, and Andy has been living in South Carolina for a number of years — and they can relate to where the two Jasons are going. Derek, in particular, is excited to see Aaron back on a creator-owned, non-superhero title, and both are enthusiastically on board for what appears to be another great Image series. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek discuss three new titles, and boy, do they have great time! They begin with Box Brown’s new graphic biography from First Second, Andre the Giant: Life and Legend. While neither of the Two Guys are big professional wrestling fans, they did grow up in an era where Andre the Giant was a significant cultural figure, covered in news programs, starring in films and television series, and appearing on The Tonight Show and Late Night with David Letterman. Next they look at another historically based comic, also published by First Second: Shackleton: Antarctic Odyssey, by Nick Bertozzi. This work focuses on the expedition that Ernest Shackleton took to the South Pole between 1914 and 1916, intending to traverse the Antarctic on foot. As the guys point out, this is another of Bertozzi’s comics about historical explorers, a previous title being 2011′s Lewis and Clark (also from First Second). Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a fun discussion — beginning with references to a dog taking a dump — of the new series from Jason Aaron and Jason Latour, Southern Bastards (Image Comics). Both of the guys are familiar with the Southern setting serving as the backdrop of this comic — Derek is from Charlotte, NC, and Andy has been living in South Carolina for a number of years — and they can relate to where the two Jasons are going. Derek, in particular, is excited to see Aaron back on a creator-owned, non-superhero title, and both are enthusiastically on board for what appears to be another great Image series.

]]> 5699 no Episode 83.1 - Talking with Creators at Fan Expo’s Dallas Comic Con http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-83-1.mp3 For this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is back at the Dallas Comic Con talking with a variety of artists, writers, publishers, and even animation voice actors. Among his guests are Yanick Paquette (artist on the new Swamp Thing), Jimmy Palmiotti (creative force, behind Harley Quinn and Painkiller Jane), Joe Eisma (artist on Morning Glories), Andy Hirsch (illustrator of Garfield, Adventure Time, and Regular Show), Robert Wilson IV (artist on Knuckleheads), Tim Harris (publisher/creator of Renegade Comics), Don Rosencrants (production manager of Literati Press), Jeremy Shada (the voice of Finn on the Adventure Time cartoon), and Man of Action Studios creators Steven T. Seagle (creator behind Imperial, House of Secrets, American Virgin), Joe Kelly (writer of I Kill Giants, Bang! Tango!, and Douglas Fredericks and the House of They), and Duncan Rouleau (artist behind The Nightmarist and The Great Unknown). There was a lot of activity and a lot of fun talk. And now you can experience the con vicariously by plugging into this podcast episode! A very special thank you to Sophie Birdwell and Marc Bullard, who, as our press liaisons, showed us the layout of the floor, introduced us to many in Artist Alley, and literally took us behind the scenes for some special moments. And another big thank you to Joe Kelly, who gave Derek a signed copy of his wonderful book for adolescents, Douglas Fredericks and the House of They. Mon, 19 May 2014 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talk from the Floor For this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is back at the Dallas Comic Con talking with a variety of artists, writers, publishers, and even animation voice actors. Among his guests are Yanick Paquette (artist on the new Swamp Thing), Jimmy Palmiotti (creative force, behind Harley Quinn and Painkiller Jane), Joe Eisma (artist on Morning Glories), Andy Hirsch (illustrator of Garfield, Adventure Time, and Regular Show), Robert Wilson IV (artist on Knuckleheads), Tim Harris (publisher/creator of Renegade Comics), Don Rosencrants (production manager of Literati Press), Jeremy Shada (the voice of Finn on the Adventure Time cartoon), and Man of Action Studios creators Steven T. Seagle (creator behind Imperial, House of Secrets, American Virgin), Joe Kelly (writer of I Kill Giants, Bang! Tango!, and Douglas Fredericks and the House of They), and Duncan Rouleau (artist behind The Nightmarist and The Great Unknown). There was a lot of activity and a lot of fun talk. And now you can experience the con vicariously by plugging into this podcast episode! A very special thank you to Sophie Birdwell and Marc Bullard, who, as our press liaisons, showed us the layout of the floor, introduced us to many in Artist Alley, and literally took us behind the scenes for some special moments. And another big thank you to Joe Kelly, who gave Derek a signed copy of his wonderful book for adolescents, Douglas Fredericks and the House of They. For this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is back at the Dallas Comic Con talking with a variety of artists, writers, publishers, and even animation voice actors. Among his guests are Yanick Paquette (artist on the new Swamp Thing), Jimmy Palmiotti (creative force, behind Harley Quinn and Painkiller Jane), Joe Eisma (artist on Morning Glories), Andy Hirsch (illustrator of Garfield, Adventure Time, and Regular Show), Robert Wilson IV (artist on Knuckleheads), Tim Harris (publisher/creator of Renegade Comics), Don Rosencrants (production manager of Literati Press), Jeremy Shada (the voice of Finn on the Adventure Time cartoon), and Man of Action Studios creators Steven T. Seagle (creator behind Imperial, House of Secrets, American Virgin), Joe Kelly (writer of I Kill Giants, Bang! Tango!, and Douglas Fredericks and the House of They), and Duncan Rouleau (artist behind The Nightmarist and The Great Unknown). There was a lot of activity and a lot of fun talk. And now you can experience the con vicariously by plugging into this podcast episode! A very special thank you to Sophie Birdwell and Marc Bullard, who, as our press liaisons, showed us the layout of the floor, introduced us to many in Artist Alley, and literally took us behind the scenes for some special moments. And another big thank you to Joe Kelly, who gave Derek a signed copy of his wonderful book for adolescents, Douglas Fredericks and the House of They.

]]> 5059 no Interviews - Nathan Hale http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews13-Hale.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Andy W. and Derek talk with Nathan Hale, a writer/illustrator and the genius behind the Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales series from Amulet Books. They begin with Nathan’s brand new volume about World War I, Treaties, Trenches, Mud, and Blood, and the meticulous work that went into it. As the Two Guys point out, this is perhaps Nathan’s most ambitious book to date, not only in terms of the intricate and detailed art, but also because of its vast sweep of political and military history. They ask the author about his unique narrative frame – the historical figure, Nathan Hale (no relation to the author), about to be hanged as a spy, yet with a complete knowledge of American history due to strange flying history book –  and the way he applies it to all of the books in the NHHT series, including One Dead Spy, Big Bad Ironclad!, and Donner Dinner Party. The guys have a great time talking with Nathan about his work, asking him about his writing habits, his background in children’s picture books, his strategies in writing for an adolescent audience, and his responsibilities as a researcher and educator. So put on your historical thinking cap, plug in your podcast-listening device, and enjoy this conversation with Nathan Hale. Fri, 16 May 2014 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Underpants on the brain.” On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Andy W. and Derek talk with Nathan Hale, a writer/illustrator and the genius behind the Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales series from Amulet Books. They begin with Nathan’s brand new volume about World War I, Treaties, Trenches, Mud, and Blood, and the meticulous work that went into it. As the Two Guys point out, this is perhaps Nathan’s most ambitious book to date, not only in terms of the intricate and detailed art, but also because of its vast sweep of political and military history. They ask the author about his unique narrative frame – the historical figure, Nathan Hale (no relation to the author), about to be hanged as a spy, yet with a complete knowledge of American history due to strange flying history book –  and the way he applies it to all of the books in the NHHT series, including One Dead Spy, Big Bad Ironclad!, and Donner Dinner Party. The guys have a great time talking with Nathan about his work, asking him about his writing habits, his background in children’s picture books, his strategies in writing for an adolescent audience, and his responsibilities as a researcher and educator. So put on your historical thinking cap, plug in your podcast-listening device, and enjoy this conversation with Nathan Hale. On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Andy W. and Derek talk with Nathan Hale, a writer/illustrator and the genius behind the Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales series from Amulet Books. They begin with Nathan’s brand new volume about World War I, Treaties, Trenches, Mud, and Blood, and the meticulous work that went into it. As the Two Guys point out, this is perhaps Nathan’s most ambitious book to date, not only in terms of the intricate and detailed art, but also because of its vast sweep of political and military history. They ask the author about his unique narrative frame – the historical figure, Nathan Hale (no relation to the author), about to be hanged as a spy, yet with a complete knowledge of American history due to strange flying history book –  and the way he applies it to all of the books in the NHHT series, including One Dead Spy, Big Bad Ironclad!, and Donner Dinner Party. The guys have a great time talking with Nathan about his work, asking him about his writing habits, his background in children’s picture books, his strategies in writing for an adolescent audience, and his responsibilities as a researcher and educator. So put on your historical thinking cap, plug in your podcast-listening device, and enjoy this conversation with Nathan Hale.

]]> 4961 no Episode 83 - Reviews of The Best of Comix Book, Insect Bath #1, and Cosplayers #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-83.mp3 It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for another regular episode of The Comics Alternative! This week, Andy and Derek really strut their alternative creds by focusing on three titles that keenly define “alternative.” First, they discuss the recent Dark Horse/Kitchen Sink book, The Best of Comix Book. This is a collection of comics culled from the original five-issue run of Comix Book, Marvel’s ill-fated attempt to partner with the underground comix movement of the early 1970s. The project was originally initiated by Stan “The Man” Lee and edited by underground maverick, Denis Kitchen. This recent collection features the work of such major underground comix figures as Justin Green, Trina Robbins, Kim Deitch, S. Clay Wilson, Skip Williamson, Lee Marrs, Joel Beck, Art Spiegelman, and Sharon Rudahl, and it includes a wonderful historical essay by James Vance. The Two Guys discuss the various pieces that are collected, comment on some of the artists represented here, and even speculate on why certain comics from the original run were included in this collection and why others were not. Next, Derek and Andy turn their attention to two new single issues from Fantagraphics: Insect Bath #1 and Cosplayers #1. Edited by Jason T. Miles, Insect Bath is an anthology of comics that could be called contemporary manifestations of the “underground.” In this way, the book transitions well from Comix Book, in that it very much carries on in the tradition of the underground, although with much more of a minicomics feel (and minicomics themselves are arguably the legitimate offspring of comix). The guys feel that the pieces included in this first issue of Insect Bath are hit or miss, but they are more excited about Dash Shaw’s Cosplayers. This is the first of a series — how many issues might there be? — where Shaw brings his experimental approach to a study of pop culture fandom. As Andy points out, Cosplayers feels much like a Daniel Clowes story, a far cry from what we saw last year in Shaw’s unconventional 3 New Stories and New School. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so plug in your earbuds and let’s get it on! Wed, 14 May 2014 15:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A REAL Alternative Show It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for another regular episode of The Comics Alternative! This week, Andy and Derek really strut their alternative creds by focusing on three titles that keenly define “alternative.” First, they discuss the recent Dark Horse/Kitchen Sink book, The Best of Comix Book. This is a collection of comics culled from the original five-issue run of Comix Book, Marvel’s ill-fated attempt to partner with the underground comix movement of the early 1970s. The project was originally initiated by Stan “The Man” Lee and edited by underground maverick, Denis Kitchen. This recent collection features the work of such major underground comix figures as Justin Green, Trina Robbins, Kim Deitch, S. Clay Wilson, Skip Williamson, Lee Marrs, Joel Beck, Art Spiegelman, and Sharon Rudahl, and it includes a wonderful historical essay by James Vance. The Two Guys discuss the various pieces that are collected, comment on some of the artists represented here, and even speculate on why certain comics from the original run were included in this collection and why others were not. Next, Derek and Andy turn their attention to two new single issues from Fantagraphics: Insect Bath #1 and Cosplayers #1. Edited by Jason T. Miles, Insect Bath is an anthology of comics that could be called contemporary manifestations of the “underground.” In this way, the book transitions well from Comix Book, in that it very much carries on in the tradition of the underground, although with much more of a minicomics feel (and minicomics themselves are arguably the legitimate offspring of comix). The guys feel that the pieces included in this first issue of Insect Bath are hit or miss, but they are more excited about Dash Shaw’s Cosplayers. This is the first of a series — how many issues might there be? — where Shaw brings his experimental approach to a study of pop culture fandom. As Andy points out, Cosplayers feels much like a Daniel Clowes story, a far cry from what we saw last year in Shaw’s unconventional 3 New Stories and New School. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so plug in your earbuds and let’s get it on! It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for another regular episode of The Comics Alternative! This week, Andy and Derek really strut their alternative creds by focusing on three titles that keenly define “alternative.” First, they discuss the recent Dark Horse/Kitchen Sink book, The Best of Comix Book. This is a collection of comics culled from the original five-issue run of Comix Book, Marvel’s ill-fated attempt to partner with the underground comix movement of the early 1970s. The project was originally initiated by Stan “The Man” Lee and edited by underground maverick, Denis Kitchen. This recent collection features the work of such major underground comix figures as Justin Green, Trina Robbins, Kim Deitch, S. Clay Wilson, Skip Williamson, Lee Marrs, Joel Beck, Art Spiegelman, and Sharon Rudahl, and it includes a wonderful historical essay by James Vance. The Two Guys discuss the various pieces that are collected, comment on some of the artists represented here, and even speculate on why certain comics from the original run were included in this collection and why others were not. Next, Derek and Andy turn their attention to two new single issues from Fantagraphics: Insect Bath #1 and Cosplayers #1. Edited by Jason T. Miles, Insect Bath is an anthology of comics that could be called contemporary manifestations of the “underground.” In this way, the book transitions well from Comix Book, in that it very much carries on in the tradition of the underground, although with much more of a minicomics feel (and minicomics themselves are arguably the legitimate offspring of comix). The guys feel that the pieces included in this first issue of Insect Bath are hit or miss, but they are more excited about Dash Shaw’s Cosplayers. This is the first of a series — how many issues might there be? — where Shaw brings his experimental approach to a study of pop culture fandom. As Andy points out, Cosplayers feels much like a Daniel Clowes story, a far cry from what we saw last year in Shaw’s unconventional 3 New Stories and New School. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so plug in your earbuds and let’s get it on!

]]> 5939 yes Episode 82 - The May Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-82.mp3 It’s the beginning of the month, which means it’s time for Andy and Derek to flip through the latest Previews catalog. In this issue, they highlight a variety of books and comic-book series that will be coming out later this year, including new titles from Dark Horse (The Goon: Occasion of Revenge #1, Red Moon, and Sally Heathcote, Suffragette), DC/Vertigo (Bodies #1 and Trillium TP), Image (Low #1, Supreme: Blue Rose #1, Black Kiss 2: XXXmas in July Special, and Murder Me Dead), Adhouse Books (Youth Is Wasted), BOOM! Studios (Black Market #1), Dynamite Entertainment (The Devilers #1), Drawn and Quarterly (Benson’s Cuckoos), Fantagraphics (The Hip Hop Family Tree, Vol. 2, DKW: Ditko, Kirby, Wood, Jim, and Luba and Her Family), First Second (The Shadow Hero), Hill and Wang (Not the Israel My Parents Promised Me TP), and Knockabout Comics (Beatles with an A: The Birth of a Band). Among the highlights from this episode, you will hear: Derek’s frustration at not getting his copy of Previews in time, and thus, having to rely on a crappy text file; Andy renewing his ongoing resistance to anything with “steam” in the title; Fantasies about killing clowns; More gripes about series numbering and the shenanigans of Marvel; Derek going negative on Vertigo’s new attempt at an anthology, and then Andy advising Derek to readjust his expectations on anthologies.  This this a fun episode? Of course it is! And it’s the kind of good quality podcasting you’ve come to expect from The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics™. Wed, 07 May 2014 14:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Anthology Woes, Steampunk Nos It’s the beginning of the month, which means it’s time for Andy and Derek to flip through the latest Previews catalog. In this issue, they highlight a variety of books and comic-book series that will be coming out later this year, including new titles from Dark Horse (The Goon: Occasion of Revenge #1, Red Moon, and Sally Heathcote, Suffragette), DC/Vertigo (Bodies #1 and Trillium TP), Image (Low #1, Supreme: Blue Rose #1, Black Kiss 2: XXXmas in July Special, and Murder Me Dead), Adhouse Books (Youth Is Wasted), BOOM! Studios (Black Market #1), Dynamite Entertainment (The Devilers #1), Drawn and Quarterly (Benson’s Cuckoos), Fantagraphics (The Hip Hop Family Tree, Vol. 2, DKW: Ditko, Kirby, Wood, Jim, and Luba and Her Family), First Second (The Shadow Hero), Hill and Wang (Not the Israel My Parents Promised Me TP), and Knockabout Comics (Beatles with an A: The Birth of a Band). Among the highlights from this episode, you will hear: Derek’s frustration at not getting his copy of Previews in time, and thus, having to rely on a crappy text file; Andy renewing his ongoing resistance to anything with “steam” in the title; Fantasies about killing clowns; More gripes about series numbering and the shenanigans of Marvel; Derek going negative on Vertigo’s new attempt at an anthology, and then Andy advising Derek to readjust his expectations on anthologies.  This this a fun episode? Of course it is! And it’s the kind of good quality podcasting you’ve come to expect from The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics™. It’s the beginning of the month, which means it’s time for Andy and Derek to flip through the latest Previews catalog. In this issue, they highlight a variety of books and comic-book series that will be coming out later this year, including new titles from Dark Horse (The Goon: Occasion of Revenge #1, Red Moon, and Sally Heathcote, Suffragette), DC/Vertigo (Bodies #1 and Trillium TP), Image (Low #1, Supreme: Blue Rose #1, Black Kiss 2: XXXmas in July Special, and Murder Me Dead), Adhouse Books (Youth Is Wasted), BOOM! Studios (Black Market #1), Dynamite Entertainment (The Devilers #1), Drawn and Quarterly (Benson’s Cuckoos), Fantagraphics (The Hip Hop Family Tree, Vol. 2, DKW: Ditko, Kirby, Wood, Jim, and Luba and Her Family), First Second (The Shadow Hero), Hill and Wang (Not the Israel My Parents Promised Me TP), and Knockabout Comics (Beatles with an A: The Birth of a Band). Among the highlights from this episode, you will hear: Derek’s frustration at not getting his copy of Previews in time, and thus, having to rely on a crappy text file; Andy renewing his ongoing resistance to anything with “steam” in the title; Fantasies about killing clowns; More gripes about series numbering and the shenanigans of Marvel; Derek going negative on Vertigo’s new attempt at an anthology, and then Andy advising Derek to readjust his expectations on anthologies.  This this a fun episode? Of course it is! And it’s the kind of good quality podcasting you’ve come to expect from The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics™.

]]> 5204 no Episode 81.2 - Interviews with Creators on FCBD 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-81-2.mp3 Part two of The Comics Alternative‘s coverage of Free Comic Book Day 2014. In this episode, Derek visits a couple of his local shops, Madness Games and Comics and Collected, both in Plano, TX, where he takes the opportunity to interview several creators at the shops for FCBD. First, he talks with illustrator and designer, Matthew Warlick. Derek had interviewed Matthew previously at last October’s Dallas Comic Con when he was there with the rest of the crew from Space Gun Studios, but this time around he talks with the artist one-on-one. Next, the Guy with a PhD Talking about Comics heads over to his home shop, Collected, to talk with several other artists and writers. There he finds Chad Ettelbrick, creator of the new beef-filled zombie comic, Bovine. Derek also talks with Garfield illustrator and good friend of the show, Andy Hirsch. The past year has been big for Andy — working on Adventure Time comics, doing more covers, expanding his presence at Kaboom! — and he talks about many of these experiences amidst the chaos of FCBD. Next, Derek speaks with an artist new to the biz, Jajo Rice, about his aspirations within the industry and his ideas for new comics. Finally, he shares words with Eddie Medina, a Dallas-based artist and designer who is also a podcaster! (In fact, Eddie was at Collected with Cole Houston, of the JediCole Universe, recording an on-location FCBD episode, as well.) Tue, 06 May 2014 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Illustrative Examples Part two of The Comics Alternative‘s coverage of Free Comic Book Day 2014. In this episode, Derek visits a couple of his local shops, Madness Games and Comics and Collected, both in Plano, TX, where he takes the opportunity to interview several creators at the shops for FCBD. First, he talks with illustrator and designer, Matthew Warlick. Derek had interviewed Matthew previously at last October’s Dallas Comic Con when he was there with the rest of the crew from Space Gun Studios, but this time around he talks with the artist one-on-one. Next, the Guy with a PhD Talking about Comics heads over to his home shop, Collected, to talk with several other artists and writers. There he finds Chad Ettelbrick, creator of the new beef-filled zombie comic, Bovine. Derek also talks with Garfield illustrator and good friend of the show, Andy Hirsch. The past year has been big for Andy — working on Adventure Time comics, doing more covers, expanding his presence at Kaboom! — and he talks about many of these experiences amidst the chaos of FCBD. Next, Derek speaks with an artist new to the biz, Jajo Rice, about his aspirations within the industry and his ideas for new comics. Finally, he shares words with Eddie Medina, a Dallas-based artist and designer who is also a podcaster! (In fact, Eddie was at Collected with Cole Houston, of the JediCole Universe, recording an on-location FCBD episode, as well.) Part two of The Comics Alternative‘s coverage of Free Comic Book Day 2014. In this episode, Derek visits a couple of his local shops, Madness Games and Comics and Collected, both in Plano, TX, where he takes the opportunity to interview several creators at the shops for FCBD. First, he talks with illustrator and designer, Matthew Warlick. Derek had interviewed Matthew previously at last October’s Dallas Comic Con when he was there with the rest of the crew from Space Gun Studios, but this time around he talks with the artist one-on-one. Next, the Guy with a PhD Talking about Comics heads over to his home shop, Collected, to talk with several other artists and writers. There he finds Chad Ettelbrick, creator of the new beef-filled zombie comic, Bovine. Derek also talks with Garfield illustrator and good friend of the show, Andy Hirsch. The past year has been big for Andy — working on Adventure Time comics, doing more covers, expanding his presence at Kaboom! — and he talks about many of these experiences amidst the chaos of FCBD. Next, Derek speaks with an artist new to the biz, Jajo Rice, about his aspirations within the industry and his ideas for new comics. Finally, he shares words with Eddie Medina, a Dallas-based artist and designer who is also a podcaster! (In fact, Eddie was at Collected with Cole Houston, of the JediCole Universe, recording an on-location FCBD episode, as well.)

]]> 2749 no Episode 81.1 - Free Comic Book Day 2014 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-81-1.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is on location at Collected Comics in Plano, TX, talking with customers, cosplayers, and critical readers during Free Comic Book Day 2014. Joining him via the wonders of Skype (and despite some sound issues) is Andy Wolverton, who, unfortunately, was unable to take part in FCBD at his own local shop, Third Eye Comics, in Annapolis, MD. Instead, he joins in the FCBD activities from a distance, enjoying the fun virtually. He and Derek discuss the activity surrounding them at Collected Comics, talk with customers to find out what FCBD titles they’re getting, get the lowdown on local cons from gorgeous cosplayers, and plunge into recent comics news with friends of the show. The Two Guys had a lot of fun on Saturday, and some of their guests included a great guy named Rocky and his family, and also: uperfan and Friend of the Show, Laura Rogers; Dallas Fan Girl, Laura Gasera; and Krystle “Selina Kyle” Starr. Having been some days in preparation, a splendid time is guaranteed for all. So be sure to listen to this year’s coverage of Free Comic Book Day! Mon, 05 May 2014 12:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “We are not Marvel’s keeper” On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is on location at Collected Comics in Plano, TX, talking with customers, cosplayers, and critical readers during Free Comic Book Day 2014. Joining him via the wonders of Skype (and despite some sound issues) is Andy Wolverton, who, unfortunately, was unable to take part in FCBD at his own local shop, Third Eye Comics, in Annapolis, MD. Instead, he joins in the FCBD activities from a distance, enjoying the fun virtually. He and Derek discuss the activity surrounding them at Collected Comics, talk with customers to find out what FCBD titles they’re getting, get the lowdown on local cons from gorgeous cosplayers, and plunge into recent comics news with friends of the show. The Two Guys had a lot of fun on Saturday, and some of their guests included a great guy named Rocky and his family, and also: uperfan and Friend of the Show, Laura Rogers; Dallas Fan Girl, Laura Gasera; and Krystle “Selina Kyle” Starr. Having been some days in preparation, a splendid time is guaranteed for all. So be sure to listen to this year’s coverage of Free Comic Book Day! On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek is on location at Collected Comics in Plano, TX, talking with customers, cosplayers, and critical readers during Free Comic Book Day 2014. Joining him via the wonders of Skype (and despite some sound issues) is Andy Wolverton, who, unfortunately, was unable to take part in FCBD at his own local shop, Third Eye Comics, in Annapolis, MD. Instead, he joins in the FCBD activities from a distance, enjoying the fun virtually. He and Derek discuss the activity surrounding them at Collected Comics, talk with customers to find out what FCBD titles they’re getting, get the lowdown on local cons from gorgeous cosplayers, and plunge into recent comics news with friends of the show. The Two Guys had a lot of fun on Saturday, and some of their guests included a great guy named Rocky and his family, and also: uperfan and Friend of the Show, Laura Rogers; Dallas Fan Girl, Laura Gasera; and Krystle “Selina Kyle” Starr. Having been some days in preparation, a splendid time is guaranteed for all. So be sure to listen to this year’s coverage of Free Comic Book Day!

]]> 5325 no Episode 81 - Reviews of Hidden, Genesis, and World War 3 Illustrated #45 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-81.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene put on their happy faces to review three titles concerned with the positive and uplifting sides of life. First, they go through Loïc Dauvillier and Marc Lizano’s Hidden: A Child’s Story of the Holocaust (First Second), a new graphic novel focusing on genocide. A translation of the 2012 French album, L’enfant cachée, this is the story of a survivor telling her young granddaughter the traumas she underwent in 1940s France. Perhaps even more significantly, it’s a story about hiding: hiding from terror, hiding who you are, hiding your experiences, and hiding from your family. Among other facets of the book, the guys focus on the possible audience assumptions with this story, how it’s crafted for younger readers while at the same time having an all-age appeal. Next, they turn to Genesis (Image Comics), the new one-shot from Nathan Edmondson and Alison Sampson. Gene is uncertain about the issue, feeling that the story reaches for a deeper significance that it never really earns. Derek is a little more positive, arguing that Sampson’s intriguing (and at times, surreal) art goes a long way in carrying the weight of this quasi-parable. The story has everything to do with death and destruction…much like Hidden, and much like the next title that the Two Guys review. The latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated (distributed through Top Shelf Productions), #45, is described by editors Peter Kuper and Scott Cunningham as “the death issue.” All of the 31 contributions to this anthology have something to do with death, whether it be the passing of a family member, the “death” of an idea or identity, coming to terms with the end of life, or the presence of death in art and literature. As Derek and Gene discuss, some of the most moving, and most notable, pieces in this latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated include comics by Kuper, Rosalie Lightning and Tom Hart, Hayley Gold, Seth Tobocman, Sandy Jimenez, and Kevin C. Pyle. The tone of the comics discussed in this episode may be dark or heavy, but the stories are all fascinatingly told and well worth reading. Wed, 30 Apr 2014 15:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Destruction, Death, and the Holocaust…an Uplifting Show! This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene put on their happy faces to review three titles concerned with the positive and uplifting sides of life. First, they go through Loïc Dauvillier and Marc Lizano’s Hidden: A Child’s Story of the Holocaust (First Second), a new graphic novel focusing on genocide. A translation of the 2012 French album, L’enfant cachée, this is the story of a survivor telling her young granddaughter the traumas she underwent in 1940s France. Perhaps even more significantly, it’s a story about hiding: hiding from terror, hiding who you are, hiding your experiences, and hiding from your family. Among other facets of the book, the guys focus on the possible audience assumptions with this story, how it’s crafted for younger readers while at the same time having an all-age appeal. Next, they turn to Genesis (Image Comics), the new one-shot from Nathan Edmondson and Alison Sampson. Gene is uncertain about the issue, feeling that the story reaches for a deeper significance that it never really earns. Derek is a little more positive, arguing that Sampson’s intriguing (and at times, surreal) art goes a long way in carrying the weight of this quasi-parable. The story has everything to do with death and destruction…much like Hidden, and much like the next title that the Two Guys review. The latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated (distributed through Top Shelf Productions), #45, is described by editors Peter Kuper and Scott Cunningham as “the death issue.” All of the 31 contributions to this anthology have something to do with death, whether it be the passing of a family member, the “death” of an idea or identity, coming to terms with the end of life, or the presence of death in art and literature. As Derek and Gene discuss, some of the most moving, and most notable, pieces in this latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated include comics by Kuper, Rosalie Lightning and Tom Hart, Hayley Gold, Seth Tobocman, Sandy Jimenez, and Kevin C. Pyle. The tone of the comics discussed in this episode may be dark or heavy, but the stories are all fascinatingly told and well worth reading. This week on The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene put on their happy faces to review three titles concerned with the positive and uplifting sides of life. First, they go through Loïc Dauvillier and Marc Lizano’s Hidden: A Child’s Story of the Holocaust (First Second), a new graphic novel focusing on genocide. A translation of the 2012 French album, L’enfant cachée, this is the story of a survivor telling her young granddaughter the traumas she underwent in 1940s France. Perhaps even more significantly, it’s a story about hiding: hiding from terror, hiding who you are, hiding your experiences, and hiding from your family. Among other facets of the book, the guys focus on the possible audience assumptions with this story, how it’s crafted for younger readers while at the same time having an all-age appeal. Next, they turn to Genesis (Image Comics), the new one-shot from Nathan Edmondson and Alison Sampson. Gene is uncertain about the issue, feeling that the story reaches for a deeper significance that it never really earns. Derek is a little more positive, arguing that Sampson’s intriguing (and at times, surreal) art goes a long way in carrying the weight of this quasi-parable. The story has everything to do with death and destruction…much like Hidden, and much like the next title that the Two Guys review. The latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated (distributed through Top Shelf Productions), #45, is described by editors Peter Kuper and Scott Cunningham as “the death issue.” All of the 31 contributions to this anthology have something to do with death, whether it be the passing of a family member, the “death” of an idea or identity, coming to terms with the end of life, or the presence of death in art and literature. As Derek and Gene discuss, some of the most moving, and most notable, pieces in this latest issue of World War 3 Illustrated include comics by Kuper, Rosalie Lightning and Tom Hart, Hayley Gold, Seth Tobocman, Sandy Jimenez, and Kevin C. Pyle. The tone of the comics discussed in this episode may be dark or heavy, but the stories are all fascinatingly told and well worth reading.

]]> 6173 no Interviews - Liana Finck http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews12-Finck.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Andy and Derek talk with Liana Finck, a New York-based artist whose first book, A Bintel Brief: Love and Longing in Old New York, has just been released through Ecco Press. In their conversation, the Two Guys ask Liana about the idea behind her project — based on the “Bintel Brief” section BintelBriefthat appeared in Der Forverts (The Forward) under Abraham Cahan’s editorship — how she discovered Cahan’s work and what it meant to her, and the autobiographical links that are present in the book. Liana also discusses her work as a graphic artist, her newness to comics writing, and future projects she currently has underway. In terms of the latter, you can follow her latest installments of the new serial, Diary of a Shadow, as well as see sample pages from A Bintel Brief, at her website, lianafinck.com. Mon, 28 Apr 2014 14:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Porn for a person who likes fairy tales and not porn.” On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Andy and Derek talk with Liana Finck, a New York-based artist whose first book, A Bintel Brief: Love and Longing in Old New York, has just been released through Ecco Press. In their conversation, the Two Guys ask Liana about the idea behind her project — based on the “Bintel Brief” section BintelBriefthat appeared in Der Forverts (The Forward) under Abraham Cahan’s editorship — how she discovered Cahan’s work and what it meant to her, and the autobiographical links that are present in the book. Liana also discusses her work as a graphic artist, her newness to comics writing, and future projects she currently has underway. In terms of the latter, you can follow her latest installments of the new serial, Diary of a Shadow, as well as see sample pages from A Bintel Brief, at her website, lianafinck.com. On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Andy and Derek talk with Liana Finck, a New York-based artist whose first book, A Bintel Brief: Love and Longing in Old New York, has just been released through Ecco Press. In their conversation, the Two Guys ask Liana about the idea behind her project — based on the “Bintel Brief” section BintelBriefthat appeared in Der Forverts (The Forward) under Abraham Cahan’s editorship — how she discovered Cahan’s work and what it meant to her, and the autobiographical links that are present in the book. Liana also discusses her work as a graphic artist, her newness to comics writing, and future projects she currently has underway. In terms of the latter, you can follow her latest installments of the new serial, Diary of a Shadow, as well as see sample pages from A Bintel Brief, at her website, lianafinck.com.

]]> 3984 no Episode 80.1 - Our April Visit to Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-80-1.mp3 Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics in Plano, to discuss comics with the folks who frequent their aisles. Joining him this month are the assistant store manager, Freddy Ruiz, and loyal Collected customer and good friend of the shop, Laura Rogers. Together they cover a variety of topics and titles — from Garth Ennis’s violence to Brian K. Vaughn’s imagination, from individual buying habits to customer trends, from Star Wars to Big Trouble in Little China — and have a fun time doing so. They’re even joined by store employee Sabrina Smith, who is usually gun-shy when it comes to a podcasting microphone. She shares her experience with various disturbing comics, including the upcoming Itty Bitty Bunnies In Rainbow Pixie Candy Land. So sit back, get out your comic-book wish list, and join everyone at Collected in their audio romp through current comics-dom. Fri, 25 Apr 2014 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Freddy, the Recommender Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics in Plano, to discuss comics with the folks who frequent their aisles. Joining him this month are the assistant store manager, Freddy Ruiz, and loyal Collected customer and good friend of the shop, Laura Rogers. Together they cover a variety of topics and titles — from Garth Ennis’s violence to Brian K. Vaughn’s imagination, from individual buying habits to customer trends, from Star Wars to Big Trouble in Little China — and have a fun time doing so. They’re even joined by store employee Sabrina Smith, who is usually gun-shy when it comes to a podcasting microphone. She shares her experience with various disturbing comics, including the upcoming Itty Bitty Bunnies In Rainbow Pixie Candy Land. So sit back, get out your comic-book wish list, and join everyone at Collected in their audio romp through current comics-dom. Derek is back at his local shop, Collected Comics in Plano, to discuss comics with the folks who frequent their aisles. Joining him this month are the assistant store manager, Freddy Ruiz, and loyal Collected customer and good friend of the shop, Laura Rogers. Together they cover a variety of topics and titles — from Garth Ennis’s violence to Brian K. Vaughn’s imagination, from individual buying habits to customer trends, from Star Wars to Big Trouble in Little China — and have a fun time doing so. They’re even joined by store employee Sabrina Smith, who is usually gun-shy when it comes to a podcasting microphone. She shares her experience with various disturbing comics, including the upcoming Itty Bitty Bunnies In Rainbow Pixie Candy Land. So sit back, get out your comic-book wish list, and join everyone at Collected in their audio romp through current comics-dom.

]]> 4269 no Interviews - Bob Fingerman http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews11-Fingerman.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Derek talks with Bob Fingerman, a man who knows what it’s like to work for Minimum Wage. They discuss Bob’s decision to bring back this landmark series though Image Comics, as well as the task of pulling together last year’s Maximum Minimum Wage (also from Image). In the interview, Derek asks Bob about any autobiographical links between him and his protagonist, Rob Hoffman, and he tries to corner Bob on whether or not Rob’s recently divorced spouse, Sylvia Fanucci, will make an appearance in the new series. Bob refuses to be cornered. Along the way they discuss the challenges of building a devoted readership, Bob’s fascination with the apocalypse and zombie stories, his forays into racial/gender politics, the joys (and limitations) of explicit sex and violence, the comics mainstream and “that Bob Fingerman feeling,” and the creative satisfaction one gets from making Bill O’Reilly a mutated and despicable villain of a decimated cultural landscape. (Wait…doesn’t this actually describe the real O’Reilly?) So get out your back issues of Minimum Wage, refresh your memory on Otis Goes Hollywood, search for that lost copy of Finger Filth, and enjoy this conversation with one of the most incisive cultural observers in comics today. Thu, 24 Apr 2014 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Relationships, Porn, and Bill O’Reilly’s Mutated Disembodied Head On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Derek talks with Bob Fingerman, a man who knows what it’s like to work for Minimum Wage. They discuss Bob’s decision to bring back this landmark series though Image Comics, as well as the task of pulling together last year’s Maximum Minimum Wage (also from Image). In the interview, Derek asks Bob about any autobiographical links between him and his protagonist, Rob Hoffman, and he tries to corner Bob on whether or not Rob’s recently divorced spouse, Sylvia Fanucci, will make an appearance in the new series. Bob refuses to be cornered. Along the way they discuss the challenges of building a devoted readership, Bob’s fascination with the apocalypse and zombie stories, his forays into racial/gender politics, the joys (and limitations) of explicit sex and violence, the comics mainstream and “that Bob Fingerman feeling,” and the creative satisfaction one gets from making Bill O’Reilly a mutated and despicable villain of a decimated cultural landscape. (Wait…doesn’t this actually describe the real O’Reilly?) So get out your back issues of Minimum Wage, refresh your memory on Otis Goes Hollywood, search for that lost copy of Finger Filth, and enjoy this conversation with one of the most incisive cultural observers in comics today. On this episode of The Comics Alternatives Interviews, Derek talks with Bob Fingerman, a man who knows what it’s like to work for Minimum Wage. They discuss Bob’s decision to bring back this landmark series though Image Comics, as well as the task of pulling together last year’s Maximum Minimum Wage (also from Image). In the interview, Derek asks Bob about any autobiographical links between him and his protagonist, Rob Hoffman, and he tries to corner Bob on whether or not Rob’s recently divorced spouse, Sylvia Fanucci, will make an appearance in the new series. Bob refuses to be cornered. Along the way they discuss the challenges of building a devoted readership, Bob’s fascination with the apocalypse and zombie stories, his forays into racial/gender politics, the joys (and limitations) of explicit sex and violence, the comics mainstream and “that Bob Fingerman feeling,” and the creative satisfaction one gets from making Bill O’Reilly a mutated and despicable villain of a decimated cultural landscape. (Wait…doesn’t this actually describe the real O’Reilly?) So get out your back issues of Minimum Wage, refresh your memory on Otis Goes Hollywood, search for that lost copy of Finger Filth, and enjoy this conversation with one of the most incisive cultural observers in comics today.

]]> 4579 no Episode 80: Reviews of Dead Letters #1, Shutter #1, Star Mage #1, and Edger Allan Poe’s The Premature Burial http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-80.mp3 In this episode of The Comics Alternative, the third of what promises to be an unprecedented five consecutive shows for a single week, Derek and Andy W. discuss four new #1 and one-shot issues. First, they look at Christopher Sebela and Chris Visions’s Dead Letters (BOOM! Studios), focusing on the story’s clever use of narrative gaps and art-driven action. Then they turn to Shutter (Image Comics), a new series from Joe Keatinge teams up with debut artist Leila del Duca. The guys love the initial setup, but nonetheless wanted more story in this inaugural issue. From there they delve into JC De La Torre and Ray Dillon’s Star Mage from IDW Publishing, and what promises to be an intriguing new sci-fi title. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a long discussion of Richard Corben’s latest adaptation, Edgar Allan Poe’s The Premature Burial (Dark Horse Comics). They point out that the issue also includes an adaption of “The Cask of Amontillado” — in fact, “Cask” takes up more of the issue than does the titular feature — and that it works in similar ways to the other recent Corben adaptations of Poe for Dark Horse, leading up to the fall publication of the collection, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirit of the Dead (Dark Horse Books). The Two Guys had a great time discussing these new comics, and you can join in on the fun as well by lending your ear to this week’s review show. Wed, 23 Apr 2014 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Lots o’ New Stuff! In this episode of The Comics Alternative, the third of what promises to be an unprecedented five consecutive shows for a single week, Derek and Andy W. discuss four new #1 and one-shot issues. First, they look at Christopher Sebela and Chris Visions’s Dead Letters (BOOM! Studios), focusing on the story’s clever use of narrative gaps and art-driven action. Then they turn to Shutter (Image Comics), a new series from Joe Keatinge teams up with debut artist Leila del Duca. The guys love the initial setup, but nonetheless wanted more story in this inaugural issue. From there they delve into JC De La Torre and Ray Dillon’s Star Mage from IDW Publishing, and what promises to be an intriguing new sci-fi title. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a long discussion of Richard Corben’s latest adaptation, Edgar Allan Poe’s The Premature Burial (Dark Horse Comics). They point out that the issue also includes an adaption of “The Cask of Amontillado” — in fact, “Cask” takes up more of the issue than does the titular feature — and that it works in similar ways to the other recent Corben adaptations of Poe for Dark Horse, leading up to the fall publication of the collection, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirit of the Dead (Dark Horse Books). The Two Guys had a great time discussing these new comics, and you can join in on the fun as well by lending your ear to this week’s review show. In this episode of The Comics Alternative, the third of what promises to be an unprecedented five consecutive shows for a single week, Derek and Andy W. discuss four new #1 and one-shot issues. First, they look at Christopher Sebela and Chris Visions’s Dead Letters (BOOM! Studios), focusing on the story’s clever use of narrative gaps and art-driven action. Then they turn to Shutter (Image Comics), a new series from Joe Keatinge teams up with debut artist Leila del Duca. The guys love the initial setup, but nonetheless wanted more story in this inaugural issue. From there they delve into JC De La Torre and Ray Dillon’s Star Mage from IDW Publishing, and what promises to be an intriguing new sci-fi title. Finally, Derek and Andy wrap up with a long discussion of Richard Corben’s latest adaptation, Edgar Allan Poe’s The Premature Burial (Dark Horse Comics). They point out that the issue also includes an adaption of “The Cask of Amontillado” — in fact, “Cask” takes up more of the issue than does the titular feature — and that it works in similar ways to the other recent Corben adaptations of Poe for Dark Horse, leading up to the fall publication of the collection, Edgar Allan Poe’s Spirit of the Dead (Dark Horse Books). The Two Guys had a great time discussing these new comics, and you can join in on the fun as well by lending your ear to this week’s review show.

]]> 5945 no Interviews - Shannon Wheeler http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews10-Wheeler.mp3 The guys are back with another great guest for The Comics Alternative Interviews.  This time, Gene and Derek talk with Shannon Wheeler, the creator of Too Much Coffee Man (Dark Horse Comics) and last year’s Astounding Villain House (Dark Horse Comics), as well as the illustrator of God Is Disappointed in You (Top Shelf). The conversation gets going by jumping into the Bible and how both Shannon and Mark Russell re-present the Old and New Testaments — and with strict fidelity of content — with a humorous yet straightforward manner in God Is Disappointed in You. Sure to be loved by atheists and Judeo-Christians alike! The Two Guys with PhDs also ask Shannon about his cartooning for The New Yorker, his penchant for clowns and death, the fine art of one-panel gags, and how his New Yorker rejects find new life in the collections I Thought You Would Be Funner and I Don’t Get It (BOOM! Town). They also talk with him about his work at Dark Horse, specifically Astounding Villain House, learning that Shannon has bigger long-range plans for that series. Oh, and there’s that Portlandia thing, too. There’s a lot of laughing in this episode, probably at least as much as you’ll experience when reading Shannon’s books. So join the fun and listen to the Two Guys’ conversation with a creator whose name is synonymous with the caffeine jitters! Tue, 22 Apr 2014 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal God and Coffee The guys are back with another great guest for The Comics Alternative Interviews.  This time, Gene and Derek talk with Shannon Wheeler, the creator of Too Much Coffee Man (Dark Horse Comics) and last year’s Astounding Villain House (Dark Horse Comics), as well as the illustrator of God Is Disappointed in You (Top Shelf). The conversation gets going by jumping into the Bible and how both Shannon and Mark Russell re-present the Old and New Testaments — and with strict fidelity of content — with a humorous yet straightforward manner in God Is Disappointed in You. Sure to be loved by atheists and Judeo-Christians alike! The Two Guys with PhDs also ask Shannon about his cartooning for The New Yorker, his penchant for clowns and death, the fine art of one-panel gags, and how his New Yorker rejects find new life in the collections I Thought You Would Be Funner and I Don’t Get It (BOOM! Town). They also talk with him about his work at Dark Horse, specifically Astounding Villain House, learning that Shannon has bigger long-range plans for that series. Oh, and there’s that Portlandia thing, too. There’s a lot of laughing in this episode, probably at least as much as you’ll experience when reading Shannon’s books. So join the fun and listen to the Two Guys’ conversation with a creator whose name is synonymous with the caffeine jitters! The guys are back with another great guest for The Comics Alternative Interviews.  This time, Gene and Derek talk with Shannon Wheeler, the creator of Too Much Coffee Man (Dark Horse Comics) and last year’s Astounding Villain House (Dark Horse Comics), as well as the illustrator of God Is Disappointed in You (Top Shelf). The conversation gets going by jumping into the Bible and how both Shannon and Mark Russell re-present the Old and New Testaments — and with strict fidelity of content — with a humorous yet straightforward manner in God Is Disappointed in You. Sure to be loved by atheists and Judeo-Christians alike! The Two Guys with PhDs also ask Shannon about his cartooning for The New Yorker, his penchant for clowns and death, the fine art of one-panel gags, and how his New Yorker rejects find new life in the collections I Thought You Would Be Funner and I Don’t Get It (BOOM! Town). They also talk with him about his work at Dark Horse, specifically Astounding Villain House, learning that Shannon has bigger long-range plans for that series. Oh, and there’s that Portlandia thing, too. There’s a lot of laughing in this episode, probably at least as much as you’ll experience when reading Shannon’s books. So join the fun and listen to the Two Guys’ conversation with a creator whose name is synonymous with the caffeine jitters!

]]> 5200 no Episode 79.1: A Discussion of the 2014 Eisner Award Nominations http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-79-1.mp3 On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek devote the entire show to the 2014 Eisner Award Nominations. They take a close look at almost all of the categories, weighing in on their favorites nominees, commenting on the pros and cons of the picks, and speculating on the actual process of compiling the nominees list. What the Two Guys realize is that many of the comics that they reviewed in 2013, and many of the creators they interviewed over the past year, are noticeably present on the nominee list…leading Andy to believe that there is such a thing as a “Comics Alternative bump” for exposure and recognition. Derek, on the other hand, begins his efforts in pushing for more Comics Alternative recognition in the first of what will be five different episodes of the podcast for this week, making him (in the words of Andy) “the James Brown of comics podcasting.” So Derek feels good. You knew that he would. Mon, 21 Apr 2014 15:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The James Brown of Comics Podcasting On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek devote the entire show to the 2014 Eisner Award Nominations. They take a close look at almost all of the categories, weighing in on their favorites nominees, commenting on the pros and cons of the picks, and speculating on the actual process of compiling the nominees list. What the Two Guys realize is that many of the comics that they reviewed in 2013, and many of the creators they interviewed over the past year, are noticeably present on the nominee list…leading Andy to believe that there is such a thing as a “Comics Alternative bump” for exposure and recognition. Derek, on the other hand, begins his efforts in pushing for more Comics Alternative recognition in the first of what will be five different episodes of the podcast for this week, making him (in the words of Andy) “the James Brown of comics podcasting.” So Derek feels good. You knew that he would. On this special episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek devote the entire show to the 2014 Eisner Award Nominations. They take a close look at almost all of the categories, weighing in on their favorites nominees, commenting on the pros and cons of the picks, and speculating on the actual process of compiling the nominees list. What the Two Guys realize is that many of the comics that they reviewed in 2013, and many of the creators they interviewed over the past year, are noticeably present on the nominee list…leading Andy to believe that there is such a thing as a “Comics Alternative bump” for exposure and recognition. Derek, on the other hand, begins his efforts in pushing for more Comics Alternative recognition in the first of what will be five different episodes of the podcast for this week, making him (in the words of Andy) “the James Brown of comics podcasting.” So Derek feels good. You knew that he would.

]]> 6003 no Episode 79: Reviews of Rio: The Complete Saga, Judge Dredd: Mega City Two, and Rogue Trooper http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-79.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three recent titles, all from IDW (they didn’t plan this…it just turned out that the comics they really wanted to discuss were all published by IDW). First, they focus on the late Doug Wildey’s collection Rio: The Complete Saga. This is a very nice paperback edition that is composed mostly of high-quality scans from Wildey’s original art — a lot like IDW’s Artist Editions, but they’re just much less expensive. The Two Guys praise Wildey’s storytelling, his mastery of the Western genre, his careful and detailed art, and his complex rendering of the title character. The only “downside” to this collection is the fact that Wildey didn’t create more Rio stories. Reading this edition leaves you not only thoroughly impressed, but also longing for more. Next, the guys look at two recent IDW serials: Judge Dredd: Mega City Two and Rogue Trooper. They point out that both titles have their genesis in the classic UK anthology, 2000 AD, and that these comics are the latest American handling of the properties. Andy helps to educate Derek on both titles, since Derek doesn’t have much experience with either. But what both of the guys emphasize is the fact that the two new series more or less stand on their own, and that readers don’t need extensive history with either Judge Dredd or Rogue Trooper comics to enjoy these comics. Thu, 17 Apr 2014 02:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Veritable IDW Lovefest This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three recent titles, all from IDW (they didn’t plan this…it just turned out that the comics they really wanted to discuss were all published by IDW). First, they focus on the late Doug Wildey’s collection Rio: The Complete Saga. This is a very nice paperback edition that is composed mostly of high-quality scans from Wildey’s original art — a lot like IDW’s Artist Editions, but they’re just much less expensive. The Two Guys praise Wildey’s storytelling, his mastery of the Western genre, his careful and detailed art, and his complex rendering of the title character. The only “downside” to this collection is the fact that Wildey didn’t create more Rio stories. Reading this edition leaves you not only thoroughly impressed, but also longing for more. Next, the guys look at two recent IDW serials: Judge Dredd: Mega City Two and Rogue Trooper. They point out that both titles have their genesis in the classic UK anthology, 2000 AD, and that these comics are the latest American handling of the properties. Andy helps to educate Derek on both titles, since Derek doesn’t have much experience with either. But what both of the guys emphasize is the fact that the two new series more or less stand on their own, and that readers don’t need extensive history with either Judge Dredd or Rogue Trooper comics to enjoy these comics. This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three recent titles, all from IDW (they didn’t plan this…it just turned out that the comics they really wanted to discuss were all published by IDW). First, they focus on the late Doug Wildey’s collection Rio: The Complete Saga. This is a very nice paperback edition that is composed mostly of high-quality scans from Wildey’s original art — a lot like IDW’s Artist Editions, but they’re just much less expensive. The Two Guys praise Wildey’s storytelling, his mastery of the Western genre, his careful and detailed art, and his complex rendering of the title character. The only “downside” to this collection is the fact that Wildey didn’t create more Rio stories. Reading this edition leaves you not only thoroughly impressed, but also longing for more. Next, the guys look at two recent IDW serials: Judge Dredd: Mega City Two and Rogue Trooper. They point out that both titles have their genesis in the classic UK anthology, 2000 AD, and that these comics are the latest American handling of the properties. Andy helps to educate Derek on both titles, since Derek doesn’t have much experience with either. But what both of the guys emphasize is the fact that the two new series more or less stand on their own, and that readers don’t need extensive history with either Judge Dredd or Rogue Trooper comics to enjoy these comics.

]]> 4798 no Episode 78: The April Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-78.mp3 It’s the beginning of another month, which means it’s time once again for Derek and Andy to flip through the pages of the latest Previews catalog. The Two guys find a lot of notable titles in this month’s Previews – with notable offerings from Dark Horse, IDW, Image, Drawn and Quarterly, and Fantagraphics – and they share their findings with the usual discerning and humorous mixture that have come to define the “Comics Alternative brand.” Among the moments in this week’s episode you will find: Derek’s joy at finding another Edgar Allan Poe adaptation from Richard Corben; Andy looking forward to the new DC trade release of a series he originally enjoyed back in the late 1980s, Cinder and Ashe; Derek ragging not only on the Angry Birds phenomenon, but on the fact that IDW is actually jumping on the bandwagon with their new Angry Bird Comics series; Andy’s semi-defense of Angry Bird Comics in pointing out the quality creators on the title; Derek still resists; the guys’ being pleased that Brian Winkeler and Robert Wilson IV’s digital comic, Knuckleheads, is being collected as a trade through IDW; the now-monthly wonderment at Image Comics’ output; the revelation of Andy’s love of Big Trouble in Little China; the podcast debut of Derek’s daughter, Zoe, in her explanation of the app game Doodle Jump; a celebration of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s new graphic novel, Seconds; highlights of the usual great output from Drawn and Quarterly (Everywhere Antennas and Petty Theft), Fantagraphics (Bomb Run and Other Stories, Heroes of the Comics, and the new edition of Special Exits), and First Second (Shackleton: Antarctic Odyssey); the Two Guys’ curiosity over Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels’s self-published How I Made the World; curiosity over Ray Fawkes’s new original graphic novel from Oni Press, The People Inside; and a discussion of Titan Comics’ acquisition of the Doctor Who license. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the warm, satisfying goodness that is The Comics Alternative. Thu, 10 Apr 2014 04:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Angry Bird Sh*t It’s the beginning of another month, which means it’s time once again for Derek and Andy to flip through the pages of the latest Previews catalog. The Two guys find a lot of notable titles in this month’s Previews – with notable offerings from Dark Horse, IDW, Image, Drawn and Quarterly, and Fantagraphics – and they share their findings with the usual discerning and humorous mixture that have come to define the “Comics Alternative brand.” Among the moments in this week’s episode you will find: Derek’s joy at finding another Edgar Allan Poe adaptation from Richard Corben; Andy looking forward to the new DC trade release of a series he originally enjoyed back in the late 1980s, Cinder and Ashe; Derek ragging not only on the Angry Birds phenomenon, but on the fact that IDW is actually jumping on the bandwagon with their new Angry Bird Comics series; Andy’s semi-defense of Angry Bird Comics in pointing out the quality creators on the title; Derek still resists; the guys’ being pleased that Brian Winkeler and Robert Wilson IV’s digital comic, Knuckleheads, is being collected as a trade through IDW; the now-monthly wonderment at Image Comics’ output; the revelation of Andy’s love of Big Trouble in Little China; the podcast debut of Derek’s daughter, Zoe, in her explanation of the app game Doodle Jump; a celebration of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s new graphic novel, Seconds; highlights of the usual great output from Drawn and Quarterly (Everywhere Antennas and Petty Theft), Fantagraphics (Bomb Run and Other Stories, Heroes of the Comics, and the new edition of Special Exits), and First Second (Shackleton: Antarctic Odyssey); the Two Guys’ curiosity over Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels’s self-published How I Made the World; curiosity over Ray Fawkes’s new original graphic novel from Oni Press, The People Inside; and a discussion of Titan Comics’ acquisition of the Doctor Who license. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the warm, satisfying goodness that is The Comics Alternative. It’s the beginning of another month, which means it’s time once again for Derek and Andy to flip through the pages of the latest Previews catalog. The Two guys find a lot of notable titles in this month’s Previews – with notable offerings from Dark Horse, IDW, Image, Drawn and Quarterly, and Fantagraphics – and they share their findings with the usual discerning and humorous mixture that have come to define the “Comics Alternative brand.” Among the moments in this week’s episode you will find: Derek’s joy at finding another Edgar Allan Poe adaptation from Richard Corben; Andy looking forward to the new DC trade release of a series he originally enjoyed back in the late 1980s, Cinder and Ashe; Derek ragging not only on the Angry Birds phenomenon, but on the fact that IDW is actually jumping on the bandwagon with their new Angry Bird Comics series; Andy’s semi-defense of Angry Bird Comics in pointing out the quality creators on the title; Derek still resists; the guys’ being pleased that Brian Winkeler and Robert Wilson IV’s digital comic, Knuckleheads, is being collected as a trade through IDW; the now-monthly wonderment at Image Comics’ output; the revelation of Andy’s love of Big Trouble in Little China; the podcast debut of Derek’s daughter, Zoe, in her explanation of the app game Doodle Jump; a celebration of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s new graphic novel, Seconds; highlights of the usual great output from Drawn and Quarterly (Everywhere Antennas and Petty Theft), Fantagraphics (Bomb Run and Other Stories, Heroes of the Comics, and the new edition of Special Exits), and First Second (Shackleton: Antarctic Odyssey); the Two Guys’ curiosity over Liz Plourde and Randy Michaels’s self-published How I Made the World; curiosity over Ray Fawkes’s new original graphic novel from Oni Press, The People Inside; and a discussion of Titan Comics’ acquisition of the Doctor Who license. There’s a lot packed into this episode, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the warm, satisfying goodness that is The Comics Alternative.

]]> 6025 no Episode 77 - Reviews of Aama, Vol. 1: The Smell of Warm Dust, Stray Bullets: Killers #1, and The Returning #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-77.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton and Derek review three more new titles. First, they look at another great book from SelfMadeHero, Frederik Peeters’s Aama, Vol. 1: The Smell of Warm Dust. This is the first of a multi-volume series from this innovative Swiss creator. The Guys discuss Peeters’s skills at world-building and his ability to get inside and flesh out his protagonist, Verloc Nim. Next they take a look at two new #1 issues: David Lapham’s Stray Bullets: Killers (Image Comics) and Jason Starr and Andrea Mutti’s The Returning (BOOM! Studios). They spend quite a bit of time discussing the return of Stray Bullets, starting with the big new Uber Alles edition — which collects the original 40 issues of Stray Bullets, plus the recent conclusion of its last story arc in issue #41 — and then moving onto the new Killer arc. They place the new title in context of the entire series and draw out similarities between it and the earlier comics. Finally, they flip through The Returning, reading it as a different twist on undead narratives. While they recognize the premise as fairly common, they hold out hope that Starr and Mutti will take their mini-series in a unique direction. Thu, 03 Apr 2014 01:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Wow! A comic book based in Elkhart, Indiana!” This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton and Derek review three more new titles. First, they look at another great book from SelfMadeHero, Frederik Peeters’s Aama, Vol. 1: The Smell of Warm Dust. This is the first of a multi-volume series from this innovative Swiss creator. The Guys discuss Peeters’s skills at world-building and his ability to get inside and flesh out his protagonist, Verloc Nim. Next they take a look at two new #1 issues: David Lapham’s Stray Bullets: Killers (Image Comics) and Jason Starr and Andrea Mutti’s The Returning (BOOM! Studios). They spend quite a bit of time discussing the return of Stray Bullets, starting with the big new Uber Alles edition — which collects the original 40 issues of Stray Bullets, plus the recent conclusion of its last story arc in issue #41 — and then moving onto the new Killer arc. They place the new title in context of the entire series and draw out similarities between it and the earlier comics. Finally, they flip through The Returning, reading it as a different twist on undead narratives. While they recognize the premise as fairly common, they hold out hope that Starr and Mutti will take their mini-series in a unique direction. This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton and Derek review three more new titles. First, they look at another great book from SelfMadeHero, Frederik Peeters’s Aama, Vol. 1: The Smell of Warm Dust. This is the first of a multi-volume series from this innovative Swiss creator. The Guys discuss Peeters’s skills at world-building and his ability to get inside and flesh out his protagonist, Verloc Nim. Next they take a look at two new #1 issues: David Lapham’s Stray Bullets: Killers (Image Comics) and Jason Starr and Andrea Mutti’s The Returning (BOOM! Studios). They spend quite a bit of time discussing the return of Stray Bullets, starting with the big new Uber Alles edition — which collects the original 40 issues of Stray Bullets, plus the recent conclusion of its last story arc in issue #41 — and then moving onto the new Killer arc. They place the new title in context of the entire series and draw out similarities between it and the earlier comics. Finally, they flip through The Returning, reading it as a different twist on undead narratives. While they recognize the premise as fairly common, they hold out hope that Starr and Mutti will take their mini-series in a unique direction.

]]> 6491 no Episode 76 - Reviews of The Park, Veil #1, and Sovereign #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-76.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton joins Derek to discuss three new titles. First, they sift through Oscar Zarate’s new graphic novel, The Park (SelfMadeHero). The Two Guys focus on Zarate’s handling of character development, making The Park an engaging case study in family expectations and disappointments. They also comment on the lush art and how it sets the tone for the entire narrative. Next, they look at two #1 issues, beginning with the new series from Greg Rucka and Toni Fejzula’s Veil (Dark Horse Comics). Derek and Andy W. point out the various mysteries embedded in this first issue and how it propels the reader into the issues that will follow. Along with that, they discuss Fejzula’s artwork and how his pallet is the perfect match for Rucka’s dark and ambiguous narrative. From there they turn to Sovereign, the new series by Chris Roberson and Paul Maybury (Image Comics). While both guys had some initial reservations — there is a lot packed into this first installment, perhaps more than a single issue can adequately contain and maintain coherency — they nonetheless feel that this issue requires multiple readings to be adequately appreciated. They admire Roberson’s ambitious world-building, and both guys trust the writer to carry through and flesh out this world in subsequent issues. All in all, Derek and Andy W. have a fun time discussing these three new titles that they highly recommend to all listeners. Wed, 26 Mar 2014 22:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Parks, Fantasy, and Naked Women from the Subway This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton joins Derek to discuss three new titles. First, they sift through Oscar Zarate’s new graphic novel, The Park (SelfMadeHero). The Two Guys focus on Zarate’s handling of character development, making The Park an engaging case study in family expectations and disappointments. They also comment on the lush art and how it sets the tone for the entire narrative. Next, they look at two #1 issues, beginning with the new series from Greg Rucka and Toni Fejzula’s Veil (Dark Horse Comics). Derek and Andy W. point out the various mysteries embedded in this first issue and how it propels the reader into the issues that will follow. Along with that, they discuss Fejzula’s artwork and how his pallet is the perfect match for Rucka’s dark and ambiguous narrative. From there they turn to Sovereign, the new series by Chris Roberson and Paul Maybury (Image Comics). While both guys had some initial reservations — there is a lot packed into this first installment, perhaps more than a single issue can adequately contain and maintain coherency — they nonetheless feel that this issue requires multiple readings to be adequately appreciated. They admire Roberson’s ambitious world-building, and both guys trust the writer to carry through and flesh out this world in subsequent issues. All in all, Derek and Andy W. have a fun time discussing these three new titles that they highly recommend to all listeners. This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy Wolverton joins Derek to discuss three new titles. First, they sift through Oscar Zarate’s new graphic novel, The Park (SelfMadeHero). The Two Guys focus on Zarate’s handling of character development, making The Park an engaging case study in family expectations and disappointments. They also comment on the lush art and how it sets the tone for the entire narrative. Next, they look at two #1 issues, beginning with the new series from Greg Rucka and Toni Fejzula’s Veil (Dark Horse Comics). Derek and Andy W. point out the various mysteries embedded in this first issue and how it propels the reader into the issues that will follow. Along with that, they discuss Fejzula’s artwork and how his pallet is the perfect match for Rucka’s dark and ambiguous narrative. From there they turn to Sovereign, the new series by Chris Roberson and Paul Maybury (Image Comics). While both guys had some initial reservations — there is a lot packed into this first installment, perhaps more than a single issue can adequately contain and maintain coherency — they nonetheless feel that this issue requires multiple readings to be adequately appreciated. They admire Roberson’s ambitious world-building, and both guys trust the writer to carry through and flesh out this world in subsequent issues. All in all, Derek and Andy W. have a fun time discussing these three new titles that they highly recommend to all listeners.

]]> 5463 no Episode 75 - Reviews of Sheltered Vol. 1, Dead Boy Detectives #1-2, The Royals #1, and Black Dynamite #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-75.mp3 In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene and Derek look at a variety of recent comics. They begin by discussing the first volume of Sheltered (Image), focusing on the story’s concept and its pacing. Next, they look at two recent titles from Vertigo: Dead Boy Detectives and The Royals: Masters of War. Although both guys are excited that the two dead boys are with a new ongoing series — they first appeared in Neil Gaiman’s Sandman from the 1990s — they’re not sure that the current storyline is clarifying itself. With The Royals, both Derek and Gene are taken by the concept and think the first issue sets up an exciting miniseries. Finally, the Two Guys look at Black Dynamite (IDW). They’re intrigued by the series’ links to the Adult Swim cartoon — which itself is a spinoff of the 2009 Scott Sanders film — but they aren’t sure that the first issue fully establishes its parodic potential. In all, Gene and Derek want to see how the creators discussed in this episode follow up on the promise of their initial stories. Thu, 20 Mar 2014 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal From Survivalism to Blaxploitation In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene and Derek look at a variety of recent comics. They begin by discussing the first volume of Sheltered (Image), focusing on the story’s concept and its pacing. Next, they look at two recent titles from Vertigo: Dead Boy Detectives and The Royals: Masters of War. Although both guys are excited that the two dead boys are with a new ongoing series — they first appeared in Neil Gaiman’s Sandman from the 1990s — they’re not sure that the current storyline is clarifying itself. With The Royals, both Derek and Gene are taken by the concept and think the first issue sets up an exciting miniseries. Finally, the Two Guys look at Black Dynamite (IDW). They’re intrigued by the series’ links to the Adult Swim cartoon — which itself is a spinoff of the 2009 Scott Sanders film — but they aren’t sure that the first issue fully establishes its parodic potential. In all, Gene and Derek want to see how the creators discussed in this episode follow up on the promise of their initial stories. In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Gene and Derek look at a variety of recent comics. They begin by discussing the first volume of Sheltered (Image), focusing on the story’s concept and its pacing. Next, they look at two recent titles from Vertigo: Dead Boy Detectives and The Royals: Masters of War. Although both guys are excited that the two dead boys are with a new ongoing series — they first appeared in Neil Gaiman’s Sandman from the 1990s — they’re not sure that the current storyline is clarifying itself. With The Royals, both Derek and Gene are taken by the concept and think the first issue sets up an exciting miniseries. Finally, the Two Guys look at Black Dynamite (IDW). They’re intrigued by the series’ links to the Adult Swim cartoon — which itself is a spinoff of the 2009 Scott Sanders film — but they aren’t sure that the first issue fully establishes its parodic potential. In all, Gene and Derek want to see how the creators discussed in this episode follow up on the promise of their initial stories.

]]> 3293 no Episode 74 - A Review of The Joyners in 3D, Undertow #1, and White Suits #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-74.mp3 In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy Wolverton discuss three new titles. They begin with the new book from R. J. Ryan and David Marquez, The Joyners in 3D (Archaia). They discuss the 3D aspect of the text and wonder if the special visual effects are really necessary. The story, though, is something worth reading, and the Two Guys recommend it on those grounds. You you don’t mind putting on cardboard glasses with red and blue plastic lenses, this book is definitely for you. Next they turn to #1 issues of two new series. With Steve Orlando and Artyom Trakhanov’s Undertow (Image Comics), they focus on the eye-capturing art and this first issue’s attempts at world-building. And while they still have a few questions about the series’ premise, they nonetheless feel that this title has a lot of promise and will continue on with subsequent issues. Next, Andy W. and Derek look at White Suits #1 (Dark Horse Comics), by Frank Barbiere and Tony Cypress. Again, they are taken by the art, especially Cypress’s use of a simple black-white-red pallet.  Also, the guys note that the comic’s Cold War setting is something that will interest not only readers of noir narrative, but spy and espionage fans as well. Mon, 24 Feb 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Jetsons Gone Wrong In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy Wolverton discuss three new titles. They begin with the new book from R. J. Ryan and David Marquez, The Joyners in 3D (Archaia). They discuss the 3D aspect of the text and wonder if the special visual effects are really necessary. The story, though, is something worth reading, and the Two Guys recommend it on those grounds. You you don’t mind putting on cardboard glasses with red and blue plastic lenses, this book is definitely for you. Next they turn to #1 issues of two new series. With Steve Orlando and Artyom Trakhanov’s Undertow (Image Comics), they focus on the eye-capturing art and this first issue’s attempts at world-building. And while they still have a few questions about the series’ premise, they nonetheless feel that this title has a lot of promise and will continue on with subsequent issues. Next, Andy W. and Derek look at White Suits #1 (Dark Horse Comics), by Frank Barbiere and Tony Cypress. Again, they are taken by the art, especially Cypress’s use of a simple black-white-red pallet.  Also, the guys note that the comic’s Cold War setting is something that will interest not only readers of noir narrative, but spy and espionage fans as well. In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy Wolverton discuss three new titles. They begin with the new book from R. J. Ryan and David Marquez, The Joyners in 3D (Archaia). They discuss the 3D aspect of the text and wonder if the special visual effects are really necessary. The story, though, is something worth reading, and the Two Guys recommend it on those grounds. You you don’t mind putting on cardboard glasses with red and blue plastic lenses, this book is definitely for you. Next they turn to #1 issues of two new series. With Steve Orlando and Artyom Trakhanov’s Undertow (Image Comics), they focus on the eye-capturing art and this first issue’s attempts at world-building. And while they still have a few questions about the series’ premise, they nonetheless feel that this title has a lot of promise and will continue on with subsequent issues. Next, Andy W. and Derek look at White Suits #1 (Dark Horse Comics), by Frank Barbiere and Tony Cypress. Again, they are taken by the art, especially Cypress’s use of a simple black-white-red pallet.  Also, the guys note that the comic’s Cold War setting is something that will interest not only readers of noir narrative, but spy and espionage fans as well.

]]> 3971 no Interviews - Kel Symons http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews9-Symons.mp3 In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy Wolverton discuss three new titles. They begin with the new book from R. J. Ryan and David Marquez, The Joyners in 3D (Archaia). They discuss the 3D aspect of the text and wonder if the special visual effects are really necessary. The story, though, is something worth reading, and the Two Guys recommend it on those grounds. You you don’t mind putting on cardboard glasses with red and blue plastic lenses, this book is definitely for you. Next they turn to #1 issues of two new series. With Steve Orlando and Artyom Trakhanov’s Undertow (Image Comics), they focus on the eye-capturing art and this first issue’s attempts at world-building. And while they still have a few questions about the series’ premise, they nonetheless feel that this title has a lot of promise and will continue on with subsequent issues. Next, Andy W. and Derek look at White Suits #1 (Dark Horse Comics), by Frank Barbiere and Tony Cypress. Again, they are taken by the art, especially Cypress’s use of a simple black-white-red pallet.  Also, the guys note that the comic’s Cold War setting is something that will interest not only readers of noir narrative, but spy and espionage fans as well. Fri, 21 Feb 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The South Seas, Gold Monkeys, and Magnum P.I. In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy Wolverton discuss three new titles. They begin with the new book from R. J. Ryan and David Marquez, The Joyners in 3D (Archaia). They discuss the 3D aspect of the text and wonder if the special visual effects are really necessary. The story, though, is something worth reading, and the Two Guys recommend it on those grounds. You you don’t mind putting on cardboard glasses with red and blue plastic lenses, this book is definitely for you. Next they turn to #1 issues of two new series. With Steve Orlando and Artyom Trakhanov’s Undertow (Image Comics), they focus on the eye-capturing art and this first issue’s attempts at world-building. And while they still have a few questions about the series’ premise, they nonetheless feel that this title has a lot of promise and will continue on with subsequent issues. Next, Andy W. and Derek look at White Suits #1 (Dark Horse Comics), by Frank Barbiere and Tony Cypress. Again, they are taken by the art, especially Cypress’s use of a simple black-white-red pallet.  Also, the guys note that the comic’s Cold War setting is something that will interest not only readers of noir narrative, but spy and espionage fans as well. In this episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Andy Wolverton discuss three new titles. They begin with the new book from R. J. Ryan and David Marquez, The Joyners in 3D (Archaia). They discuss the 3D aspect of the text and wonder if the special visual effects are really necessary. The story, though, is something worth reading, and the Two Guys recommend it on those grounds. You you don’t mind putting on cardboard glasses with red and blue plastic lenses, this book is definitely for you. Next they turn to #1 issues of two new series. With Steve Orlando and Artyom Trakhanov’s Undertow (Image Comics), they focus on the eye-capturing art and this first issue’s attempts at world-building. And while they still have a few questions about the series’ premise, they nonetheless feel that this title has a lot of promise and will continue on with subsequent issues. Next, Andy W. and Derek look at White Suits #1 (Dark Horse Comics), by Frank Barbiere and Tony Cypress. Again, they are taken by the art, especially Cypress’s use of a simple black-white-red pallet.  Also, the guys note that the comic’s Cold War setting is something that will interest not only readers of noir narrative, but spy and espionage fans as well.

]]> 4315 no Episode 73 - A Review of Red Light Properties and The Fuse #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-73.mp3 This week on the podcast Derek is joined by Andy Wolverton, yet another doctor who talks about comics…and a regular reviewer on The Comics Alternative blog. They review two new titles: Dan Goldman’s Red Light Properties (IDW Publishing) and issue #1 of Antony Johnston and Justin Greenwood’s new Image series, The Fuse. First, the Two Guys jump into Goldman’s latest work, which originally appeared in digital format through MonkeyBrain Comics. They discuss one of the book’s greatest strengths, the author’s handling of the human drama underlying this “horror” story — what Andy calls a mix between Ghostbusters and American Beauty – as well as Goldman’s digital art and his unique approach to visual storytelling. Next, Derek and Andy turn to the first issue of The Fuse, focusing on the title’s mash-up of procedural and science fiction narratives. While mixing detective stories with other genres is nothing new — Brubaker and Phillips’s Fatale is perhaps the best recent example here of another such comic — Johnston and Greenword present The Fuse as something fresh, making it one of the promising new series from Image Comics. Wed, 19 Feb 2014 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Creamy Comix This week on the podcast Derek is joined by Andy Wolverton, yet another doctor who talks about comics…and a regular reviewer on The Comics Alternative blog. They review two new titles: Dan Goldman’s Red Light Properties (IDW Publishing) and issue #1 of Antony Johnston and Justin Greenwood’s new Image series, The Fuse. First, the Two Guys jump into Goldman’s latest work, which originally appeared in digital format through MonkeyBrain Comics. They discuss one of the book’s greatest strengths, the author’s handling of the human drama underlying this “horror” story — what Andy calls a mix between Ghostbusters and American Beauty – as well as Goldman’s digital art and his unique approach to visual storytelling. Next, Derek and Andy turn to the first issue of The Fuse, focusing on the title’s mash-up of procedural and science fiction narratives. While mixing detective stories with other genres is nothing new — Brubaker and Phillips’s Fatale is perhaps the best recent example here of another such comic — Johnston and Greenword present The Fuse as something fresh, making it one of the promising new series from Image Comics. This week on the podcast Derek is joined by Andy Wolverton, yet another doctor who talks about comics…and a regular reviewer on The Comics Alternative blog. They review two new titles: Dan Goldman’s Red Light Properties (IDW Publishing) and issue #1 of Antony Johnston and Justin Greenwood’s new Image series, The Fuse. First, the Two Guys jump into Goldman’s latest work, which originally appeared in digital format through MonkeyBrain Comics. They discuss one of the book’s greatest strengths, the author’s handling of the human drama underlying this “horror” story — what Andy calls a mix between Ghostbusters and American Beauty – as well as Goldman’s digital art and his unique approach to visual storytelling. Next, Derek and Andy turn to the first issue of The Fuse, focusing on the title’s mash-up of procedural and science fiction narratives. While mixing detective stories with other genres is nothing new — Brubaker and Phillips’s Fatale is perhaps the best recent example here of another such comic — Johnston and Greenword present The Fuse as something fresh, making it one of the promising new series from Image Comics.

]]> 4110 no Episode 72 - A Review of Six New Comic Book Titles http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-72.mp3 This week Gene and Derek take a look at six new titles. They begin with a discussion of two new works from Image Comics, the first three issues of Alex + Ada (Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn) and Deadly Class #1 (Rick Remender and Wes Craig). They go into depth on both titles, especially Craig’s art in Deadly Class and the narrative pacing in Alex + Ada, which ultimately leads to a discussion on panel sequencing and story decompression. Next, they look at issues #1-3 of Letter 44, written by Charles Soule with art by Alberto Jiménez Albuquerque (Oni Press). They discuss its unique take on science fiction within the context of recent politics. From there, they turn to recent #1 issues from three other publishers: David Lapham’s Juice Squeezers (Dark Horse Comics), Bill Willingham and Sergio Fernandez DaVilla’s Legenderry (Dynamite Entertainment), and Curse from BOOM! Studies (written by Michael Moreci and Tim Daniel, with art by Riley Rossmo, Colin Lorimer). In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs are all over the place, moving from all-age comics to Bush-era politics to licensed characters to horror titles to science fiction to steampunk to Reagan’s Morning in America. There’s a lot packed into this show…more bang for your buck! So enjoy, won’t you? Wed, 29 Jan 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Comics for Kids with Backhoes This week Gene and Derek take a look at six new titles. They begin with a discussion of two new works from Image Comics, the first three issues of Alex + Ada (Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn) and Deadly Class #1 (Rick Remender and Wes Craig). They go into depth on both titles, especially Craig’s art in Deadly Class and the narrative pacing in Alex + Ada, which ultimately leads to a discussion on panel sequencing and story decompression. Next, they look at issues #1-3 of Letter 44, written by Charles Soule with art by Alberto Jiménez Albuquerque (Oni Press). They discuss its unique take on science fiction within the context of recent politics. From there, they turn to recent #1 issues from three other publishers: David Lapham’s Juice Squeezers (Dark Horse Comics), Bill Willingham and Sergio Fernandez DaVilla’s Legenderry (Dynamite Entertainment), and Curse from BOOM! Studies (written by Michael Moreci and Tim Daniel, with art by Riley Rossmo, Colin Lorimer). In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs are all over the place, moving from all-age comics to Bush-era politics to licensed characters to horror titles to science fiction to steampunk to Reagan’s Morning in America. There’s a lot packed into this show…more bang for your buck! So enjoy, won’t you? This week Gene and Derek take a look at six new titles. They begin with a discussion of two new works from Image Comics, the first three issues of Alex + Ada (Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn) and Deadly Class #1 (Rick Remender and Wes Craig). They go into depth on both titles, especially Craig’s art in Deadly Class and the narrative pacing in Alex + Ada, which ultimately leads to a discussion on panel sequencing and story decompression. Next, they look at issues #1-3 of Letter 44, written by Charles Soule with art by Alberto Jiménez Albuquerque (Oni Press). They discuss its unique take on science fiction within the context of recent politics. From there, they turn to recent #1 issues from three other publishers: David Lapham’s Juice Squeezers (Dark Horse Comics), Bill Willingham and Sergio Fernandez DaVilla’s Legenderry (Dynamite Entertainment), and Curse from BOOM! Studies (written by Michael Moreci and Tim Daniel, with art by Riley Rossmo, Colin Lorimer). In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs are all over the place, moving from all-age comics to Bush-era politics to licensed characters to horror titles to science fiction to steampunk to Reagan’s Morning in America. There’s a lot packed into this show…more bang for your buck! So enjoy, won’t you?

]]> 7505 no Episode 71.1 - Our January Visit to Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-71-1.mp3 It’s a new year and a new visit to Collected Comics in Plano, TX! This month Derek swings by the shop to talk with Collected’s co-owner, Brent Erwin, and his store employees Shea Hennum and Freddy Ruiz. It’s a general comics talk, with the topics varying wildly. And things get weird at times. They begin by discussing the recent renovations of the shop’s interior, and that eventually leads to a conversation on future plans and Free Comic Book Day. After that, all bets are off. Freddy talks about graphic violence and steampunk overload, Shea focuses on gay porn comics and Batman’s nads, Derek gripes about the Disney corporation and Marvel’s money-grabbing gimmicks, and Brent voices his wariness of IDW, his recipe for superhero continuity, and his love of sugary breakfast cereals. Everyone has a fun time…and now you too can enjoy the nougaty goodness of their conversation! Fri, 24 Jan 2014 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “A punch to Batman’s nads” It’s a new year and a new visit to Collected Comics in Plano, TX! This month Derek swings by the shop to talk with Collected’s co-owner, Brent Erwin, and his store employees Shea Hennum and Freddy Ruiz. It’s a general comics talk, with the topics varying wildly. And things get weird at times. They begin by discussing the recent renovations of the shop’s interior, and that eventually leads to a conversation on future plans and Free Comic Book Day. After that, all bets are off. Freddy talks about graphic violence and steampunk overload, Shea focuses on gay porn comics and Batman’s nads, Derek gripes about the Disney corporation and Marvel’s money-grabbing gimmicks, and Brent voices his wariness of IDW, his recipe for superhero continuity, and his love of sugary breakfast cereals. Everyone has a fun time…and now you too can enjoy the nougaty goodness of their conversation! It’s a new year and a new visit to Collected Comics in Plano, TX! This month Derek swings by the shop to talk with Collected’s co-owner, Brent Erwin, and his store employees Shea Hennum and Freddy Ruiz. It’s a general comics talk, with the topics varying wildly. And things get weird at times. They begin by discussing the recent renovations of the shop’s interior, and that eventually leads to a conversation on future plans and Free Comic Book Day. After that, all bets are off. Freddy talks about graphic violence and steampunk overload, Shea focuses on gay porn comics and Batman’s nads, Derek gripes about the Disney corporation and Marvel’s money-grabbing gimmicks, and Brent voices his wariness of IDW, his recipe for superhero continuity, and his love of sugary breakfast cereals. Everyone has a fun time…and now you too can enjoy the nougaty goodness of their conversation!

]]> 5771 no Episode 71 - A Review of Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time and Betty Blues http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-71.mp3 In this week’s review episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene discuss two recent releases. They begin with Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time, the Complete Series (IDW Publishing), written by Scott and David Tipton and illustrated by a host of artists. First, they place the book within context, discussing last year’s 12-issue Prisoners of Times miniseries and the 50th anniversary of the BBC’s Doctor Who television show. Then they look at the book as a whole — after a brief comment or two about their own histories as Whovians – focusing on its narrative structure, its variety of stylistics takes on the Doctor, and the way its premise springs from an easily overlooked event in the BBC series that occurred with the ninth Doctor. The Two Guys also discuss briefly the history of the franchise in comics, pointing out that one of the great features in the Prisoners of Time miniseries, and retained in the book, is the various retrospectives on the Doctor Who comics.  If you’re a fan of the television series, or just a lover of good science fiction stories, this nice hardbound edition is for you. Next, Gene and Derek turn their attention to Renaud Dillies’s Betty Blues (NBM). This graphic album just recently came out from NBM’s ComicsLit imprint, although it was originally published in French in 2003…and was the winner of the Angoulême Comics Festival Prize for First Comic Book in 2004. Since then, Dillies has written Bubbles and Gondola and Abelard, both also translated and published through NBM, but now his first book is available to English readers in the U.S. The guys remark on the beauty of Dillies’s art and the sophistication of his story. While it might appear at first glance that this is a book for young readers — with its funny animals, rounded drawings, large panels, and colorful pages — this narrative is anything but juvenile. In fact, Betty Blues is a somber and ambiguous work that delves into mature themes and resists simple resolutions. Wed, 22 Jan 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Chunkin’ with Gene In this week’s review episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene discuss two recent releases. They begin with Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time, the Complete Series (IDW Publishing), written by Scott and David Tipton and illustrated by a host of artists. First, they place the book within context, discussing last year’s 12-issue Prisoners of Times miniseries and the 50th anniversary of the BBC’s Doctor Who television show. Then they look at the book as a whole — after a brief comment or two about their own histories as Whovians – focusing on its narrative structure, its variety of stylistics takes on the Doctor, and the way its premise springs from an easily overlooked event in the BBC series that occurred with the ninth Doctor. The Two Guys also discuss briefly the history of the franchise in comics, pointing out that one of the great features in the Prisoners of Time miniseries, and retained in the book, is the various retrospectives on the Doctor Who comics.  If you’re a fan of the television series, or just a lover of good science fiction stories, this nice hardbound edition is for you. Next, Gene and Derek turn their attention to Renaud Dillies’s Betty Blues (NBM). This graphic album just recently came out from NBM’s ComicsLit imprint, although it was originally published in French in 2003…and was the winner of the Angoulême Comics Festival Prize for First Comic Book in 2004. Since then, Dillies has written Bubbles and Gondola and Abelard, both also translated and published through NBM, but now his first book is available to English readers in the U.S. The guys remark on the beauty of Dillies’s art and the sophistication of his story. While it might appear at first glance that this is a book for young readers — with its funny animals, rounded drawings, large panels, and colorful pages — this narrative is anything but juvenile. In fact, Betty Blues is a somber and ambiguous work that delves into mature themes and resists simple resolutions. In this week’s review episode of The Comics Alternative, Derek and Gene discuss two recent releases. They begin with Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time, the Complete Series (IDW Publishing), written by Scott and David Tipton and illustrated by a host of artists. First, they place the book within context, discussing last year’s 12-issue Prisoners of Times miniseries and the 50th anniversary of the BBC’s Doctor Who television show. Then they look at the book as a whole — after a brief comment or two about their own histories as Whovians – focusing on its narrative structure, its variety of stylistics takes on the Doctor, and the way its premise springs from an easily overlooked event in the BBC series that occurred with the ninth Doctor. The Two Guys also discuss briefly the history of the franchise in comics, pointing out that one of the great features in the Prisoners of Time miniseries, and retained in the book, is the various retrospectives on the Doctor Who comics.  If you’re a fan of the television series, or just a lover of good science fiction stories, this nice hardbound edition is for you. Next, Gene and Derek turn their attention to Renaud Dillies’s Betty Blues (NBM). This graphic album just recently came out from NBM’s ComicsLit imprint, although it was originally published in French in 2003…and was the winner of the Angoulême Comics Festival Prize for First Comic Book in 2004. Since then, Dillies has written Bubbles and Gondola and Abelard, both also translated and published through NBM, but now his first book is available to English readers in the U.S. The guys remark on the beauty of Dillies’s art and the sophistication of his story. While it might appear at first glance that this is a book for young readers — with its funny animals, rounded drawings, large panels, and colorful pages — this narrative is anything but juvenile. In fact, Betty Blues is a somber and ambiguous work that delves into mature themes and resists simple resolutions.

]]> 5177 no Interviews - Isabel Greenberg http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews8-Greenberg.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Isabel Greenberg, the author of The Encyclopedia of Early Earth (Little, Brown and Company). Most of the conversation centers around Isabel’s debut book — the genesis of The Encyclopedia, its dominant theme of storytelling, its structure as a series of embedded narratives, the artist’s preference for black-and-white illustration, the many myths that inform Greenberg’s storyworld, its intended audiences, the humor that permeates the book, and the kind of critical responses it has been receiving — but Andy and Derek also ask the author about her history as a reader of comics, her time as an apprentice creator, and her plans for future stories. While The Encyclopedia of Early Earth has been garnering much critical praise — including its place on Derek and Andy’s “Best of 2013″ list — Isabel Greenberg is a fairly new name on this side of the pond. So the Two Guys talk with her about her history with the UK comics scene and the ways in which her work is finding a much wider audience. It’s a fun conversation, and it ends with the promise of more great things coming from Isabel’s imagination. Tue, 21 Jan 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Art of World-Building On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Isabel Greenberg, the author of The Encyclopedia of Early Earth (Little, Brown and Company). Most of the conversation centers around Isabel’s debut book — the genesis of The Encyclopedia, its dominant theme of storytelling, its structure as a series of embedded narratives, the artist’s preference for black-and-white illustration, the many myths that inform Greenberg’s storyworld, its intended audiences, the humor that permeates the book, and the kind of critical responses it has been receiving — but Andy and Derek also ask the author about her history as a reader of comics, her time as an apprentice creator, and her plans for future stories. While The Encyclopedia of Early Earth has been garnering much critical praise — including its place on Derek and Andy’s “Best of 2013″ list — Isabel Greenberg is a fairly new name on this side of the pond. So the Two Guys talk with her about her history with the UK comics scene and the ways in which her work is finding a much wider audience. It’s a fun conversation, and it ends with the promise of more great things coming from Isabel’s imagination. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Isabel Greenberg, the author of The Encyclopedia of Early Earth (Little, Brown and Company). Most of the conversation centers around Isabel’s debut book — the genesis of The Encyclopedia, its dominant theme of storytelling, its structure as a series of embedded narratives, the artist’s preference for black-and-white illustration, the many myths that inform Greenberg’s storyworld, its intended audiences, the humor that permeates the book, and the kind of critical responses it has been receiving — but Andy and Derek also ask the author about her history as a reader of comics, her time as an apprentice creator, and her plans for future stories. While The Encyclopedia of Early Earth has been garnering much critical praise — including its place on Derek and Andy’s “Best of 2013″ list — Isabel Greenberg is a fairly new name on this side of the pond. So the Two Guys talk with her about her history with the UK comics scene and the ways in which her work is finding a much wider audience. It’s a fun conversation, and it ends with the promise of more great things coming from Isabel’s imagination.

]]> 3469 no Episode 70 - Reviews of Slayground, The Saviors #1, and The Midas Flesh #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-70.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three recent works. They begin with Darwyn Cooke’s Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground, from IDW Publishing. This is the fourth of Cooke’s comics adaptation of the Parker crime/heist novels from acclaimed writer Donald Westlake (AKA, Richard Stark). The Two Guys compare Slayground to the three other works Cooke has previously released: The Hunter (2009), The Outfit (2010), and The Score (2012). They note that while they like this graphic novel, and find Cooke’s artwork (as always) truly outstanding, they nonetheless feel that the book is a little slim, especially when compared to the earlier works. At the same time, the book also includes a reprint of the 11-page story “The 7eventh,” originally appearing in Richard Stark’s Parker: The Martini Edition (2011). What with IDW’s recent announcement that they’re going to be publishing Westlake’s original Parker novels, illustrated by Darwyn Cooke, and the promise of another Cooke adaptation of one of those novels, this is an exciting time to be reading the Parker narratives. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss two new #1 issues: James Robinson and J. Bone’s The Saviors (Image Comics) and The Midas Flesh (BOOM! Studios), written by Ryan North with art by Braden Lamb and Shelli Paroline. Their discussions of these two recent comic books are complementary, and at times provide illustrations of contrast. The Saviors gets going with an Invasion of the Body Snatchers and horror kind of feel — weird creatures of some sort apparently infiltrate a small Southwestern community and pose as respected locals — MidasFleshis told from the perspective of a pothead, and ends with a cliffhanger…literally! The Midas Flesh, which will be an 8-issue miniseries, juxtaposes two different stories, one a sci-fi quest taking place in an apocalyptic (?) future and the other alluding to Greek mythology set in some distant past. What makes this title especially notable is that it’s the first for the publisher’s BOOM! Box imprint, and the guys still aren’t sure how BOOM! will be defining that imprint. Both of these new #1s leave the guys, to greater or lesser degrees, anticipating future issues and looking forward to how their stories unfold. Wed, 15 Jan 2014 16:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “It’s like Invasion of the Body Snatchers…but with more weed.” This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three recent works. They begin with Darwyn Cooke’s Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground, from IDW Publishing. This is the fourth of Cooke’s comics adaptation of the Parker crime/heist novels from acclaimed writer Donald Westlake (AKA, Richard Stark). The Two Guys compare Slayground to the three other works Cooke has previously released: The Hunter (2009), The Outfit (2010), and The Score (2012). They note that while they like this graphic novel, and find Cooke’s artwork (as always) truly outstanding, they nonetheless feel that the book is a little slim, especially when compared to the earlier works. At the same time, the book also includes a reprint of the 11-page story “The 7eventh,” originally appearing in Richard Stark’s Parker: The Martini Edition (2011). What with IDW’s recent announcement that they’re going to be publishing Westlake’s original Parker novels, illustrated by Darwyn Cooke, and the promise of another Cooke adaptation of one of those novels, this is an exciting time to be reading the Parker narratives. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss two new #1 issues: James Robinson and J. Bone’s The Saviors (Image Comics) and The Midas Flesh (BOOM! Studios), written by Ryan North with art by Braden Lamb and Shelli Paroline. Their discussions of these two recent comic books are complementary, and at times provide illustrations of contrast. The Saviors gets going with an Invasion of the Body Snatchers and horror kind of feel — weird creatures of some sort apparently infiltrate a small Southwestern community and pose as respected locals — MidasFleshis told from the perspective of a pothead, and ends with a cliffhanger…literally! The Midas Flesh, which will be an 8-issue miniseries, juxtaposes two different stories, one a sci-fi quest taking place in an apocalyptic (?) future and the other alluding to Greek mythology set in some distant past. What makes this title especially notable is that it’s the first for the publisher’s BOOM! Box imprint, and the guys still aren’t sure how BOOM! will be defining that imprint. Both of these new #1s leave the guys, to greater or lesser degrees, anticipating future issues and looking forward to how their stories unfold. This week on The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek review three recent works. They begin with Darwyn Cooke’s Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground, from IDW Publishing. This is the fourth of Cooke’s comics adaptation of the Parker crime/heist novels from acclaimed writer Donald Westlake (AKA, Richard Stark). The Two Guys compare Slayground to the three other works Cooke has previously released: The Hunter (2009), The Outfit (2010), and The Score (2012). They note that while they like this graphic novel, and find Cooke’s artwork (as always) truly outstanding, they nonetheless feel that the book is a little slim, especially when compared to the earlier works. At the same time, the book also includes a reprint of the 11-page story “The 7eventh,” originally appearing in Richard Stark’s Parker: The Martini Edition (2011). What with IDW’s recent announcement that they’re going to be publishing Westlake’s original Parker novels, illustrated by Darwyn Cooke, and the promise of another Cooke adaptation of one of those novels, this is an exciting time to be reading the Parker narratives. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss two new #1 issues: James Robinson and J. Bone’s The Saviors (Image Comics) and The Midas Flesh (BOOM! Studios), written by Ryan North with art by Braden Lamb and Shelli Paroline. Their discussions of these two recent comic books are complementary, and at times provide illustrations of contrast. The Saviors gets going with an Invasion of the Body Snatchers and horror kind of feel — weird creatures of some sort apparently infiltrate a small Southwestern community and pose as respected locals — MidasFleshis told from the perspective of a pothead, and ends with a cliffhanger…literally! The Midas Flesh, which will be an 8-issue miniseries, juxtaposes two different stories, one a sci-fi quest taking place in an apocalyptic (?) future and the other alluding to Greek mythology set in some distant past. What makes this title especially notable is that it’s the first for the publisher’s BOOM! Box imprint, and the guys still aren’t sure how BOOM! will be defining that imprint. Both of these new #1s leave the guys, to greater or lesser degrees, anticipating future issues and looking forward to how their stories unfold.

]]> 5179 no Interviews - Fred Van Lente http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews7-VanLente.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Andy and Derek speak with writer Fred Van Lente. They begin by asking him about his work on the recent Dark Horse title, Brain Boy — a revamp of the short-lived 1960s character — and how he translated the title for a contemporary audience. Van Lente also shares a bit of insight into his upcoming reboot of Magnus: Robot Fighter, part of Dynamite Entertainment’s new Gold Key line, as well as his plans for the new Action Presidents series. The Two Guys also talk with Fred about his run on Archer and Armstrong and the early humorous titles he created with Ryan Dunlavey, the comics that really put him on the map: Action Philosophers and The Comic Book History of Comics. They spend a lot of time focusing on Fred’s special sense of humor, his meticulous research, and his melding of abstract thoughts and tangible — and very entertaining — storytelling. All in all, Derek and Andy had a good time talking with the acclaimed author…and their conversation ended right when Fred needed to take his shepherd’s pie out of the oven. The Two Guys are  nothing if not timely! Mon, 13 Jan 2014 15:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Crotch Shots, and More! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Andy and Derek speak with writer Fred Van Lente. They begin by asking him about his work on the recent Dark Horse title, Brain Boy — a revamp of the short-lived 1960s character — and how he translated the title for a contemporary audience. Van Lente also shares a bit of insight into his upcoming reboot of Magnus: Robot Fighter, part of Dynamite Entertainment’s new Gold Key line, as well as his plans for the new Action Presidents series. The Two Guys also talk with Fred about his run on Archer and Armstrong and the early humorous titles he created with Ryan Dunlavey, the comics that really put him on the map: Action Philosophers and The Comic Book History of Comics. They spend a lot of time focusing on Fred’s special sense of humor, his meticulous research, and his melding of abstract thoughts and tangible — and very entertaining — storytelling. All in all, Derek and Andy had a good time talking with the acclaimed author…and their conversation ended right when Fred needed to take his shepherd’s pie out of the oven. The Two Guys are  nothing if not timely! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Andy and Derek speak with writer Fred Van Lente. They begin by asking him about his work on the recent Dark Horse title, Brain Boy — a revamp of the short-lived 1960s character — and how he translated the title for a contemporary audience. Van Lente also shares a bit of insight into his upcoming reboot of Magnus: Robot Fighter, part of Dynamite Entertainment’s new Gold Key line, as well as his plans for the new Action Presidents series. The Two Guys also talk with Fred about his run on Archer and Armstrong and the early humorous titles he created with Ryan Dunlavey, the comics that really put him on the map: Action Philosophers and The Comic Book History of Comics. They spend a lot of time focusing on Fred’s special sense of humor, his meticulous research, and his melding of abstract thoughts and tangible — and very entertaining — storytelling. All in all, Derek and Andy had a good time talking with the acclaimed author…and their conversation ended right when Fred needed to take his shepherd’s pie out of the oven. The Two Guys are  nothing if not timely!

]]> 3851 no Episode 69 - The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-69.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back for their first Previews episode of the new year. It being January, the guys begin by highlighting some of the titles that will a part of Free Comic Book Day in May. There are some great ones coming out from BOOM! Studios, Fantagraphics, Dark Horse Comics, and Drawn and Quarterly. Then they get to the nitty gritty of the episode, discussing upcoming titles such as Veil #1, Beasts of Burden: Hunters and Gatherers, and Murder Mysteries (Dark Horse); American Vampire: Second Cycle #1 and Jonah Hex: Shadows West (DC/Vertigo); Alice in Comicland and Mean Streets: A Crime Anthology (IDW Publishing); Stray Bullets #41, Stray Bullets: Killers #1, and Sovereign #1 (Image Comics); The Big Feminist But: Comics about Women (Alternative Comics); The Returning #1 and Beautiful Scars (BOOM! Studios/Archaia); Mangus: Robot Fighter #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); White Cube (Drawn and Quarterly); Henry Speaks for Himself,  Buddy Buys a Dump, and Young Romance 2: The Early Simon and Kirby Romance Comics  (Fantagraphics); All Star (NBM); The Auteur #1 (Oni Press); Aama Volume 1: The Smell of Warm Dust and The Park (SelfMadeHero); and Nemo: The Roses of Berlin (Top Shelf Productions). Also, Derek goes off on the “gimmick” of restarting series with #1s — especially at Marvel, and dismissing Brian Michael Bendis’s rationalization — Andy reiterates his need to cut back on his growing stack of comics, and The Guys once again lapse into “package” commentary. Wed, 08 Jan 2014 17:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal More Package Appreciation The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back for their first Previews episode of the new year. It being January, the guys begin by highlighting some of the titles that will a part of Free Comic Book Day in May. There are some great ones coming out from BOOM! Studios, Fantagraphics, Dark Horse Comics, and Drawn and Quarterly. Then they get to the nitty gritty of the episode, discussing upcoming titles such as Veil #1, Beasts of Burden: Hunters and Gatherers, and Murder Mysteries (Dark Horse); American Vampire: Second Cycle #1 and Jonah Hex: Shadows West (DC/Vertigo); Alice in Comicland and Mean Streets: A Crime Anthology (IDW Publishing); Stray Bullets #41, Stray Bullets: Killers #1, and Sovereign #1 (Image Comics); The Big Feminist But: Comics about Women (Alternative Comics); The Returning #1 and Beautiful Scars (BOOM! Studios/Archaia); Mangus: Robot Fighter #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); White Cube (Drawn and Quarterly); Henry Speaks for Himself,  Buddy Buys a Dump, and Young Romance 2: The Early Simon and Kirby Romance Comics  (Fantagraphics); All Star (NBM); The Auteur #1 (Oni Press); Aama Volume 1: The Smell of Warm Dust and The Park (SelfMadeHero); and Nemo: The Roses of Berlin (Top Shelf Productions). Also, Derek goes off on the “gimmick” of restarting series with #1s — especially at Marvel, and dismissing Brian Michael Bendis’s rationalization — Andy reiterates his need to cut back on his growing stack of comics, and The Guys once again lapse into “package” commentary. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back for their first Previews episode of the new year. It being January, the guys begin by highlighting some of the titles that will a part of Free Comic Book Day in May. There are some great ones coming out from BOOM! Studios, Fantagraphics, Dark Horse Comics, and Drawn and Quarterly. Then they get to the nitty gritty of the episode, discussing upcoming titles such as Veil #1, Beasts of Burden: Hunters and Gatherers, and Murder Mysteries (Dark Horse); American Vampire: Second Cycle #1 and Jonah Hex: Shadows West (DC/Vertigo); Alice in Comicland and Mean Streets: A Crime Anthology (IDW Publishing); Stray Bullets #41, Stray Bullets: Killers #1, and Sovereign #1 (Image Comics); The Big Feminist But: Comics about Women (Alternative Comics); The Returning #1 and Beautiful Scars (BOOM! Studios/Archaia); Mangus: Robot Fighter #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); White Cube (Drawn and Quarterly); Henry Speaks for Himself,  Buddy Buys a Dump, and Young Romance 2: The Early Simon and Kirby Romance Comics  (Fantagraphics); All Star (NBM); The Auteur #1 (Oni Press); Aama Volume 1: The Smell of Warm Dust and The Park (SelfMadeHero); and Nemo: The Roses of Berlin (Top Shelf Productions). Also, Derek goes off on the “gimmick” of restarting series with #1s — especially at Marvel, and dismissing Brian Michael Bendis’s rationalization — Andy reiterates his need to cut back on his growing stack of comics, and The Guys once again lapse into “package” commentary.

]]> 5469 no Interviews - Brian Joines http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews6-Joines.mp3 On The Comics Alternative‘s first interview of 2014, Gene and Derek are joined by Brian Joines, the writer of the recent comic book series I.M.A.G.I.N.E. Agents (BOOM! Studios) and Krampus (Image Comics). They talk with Brian about how great 2013 was for him, the genesis of his new titles, his apparent fascination with the darker side of childhood, why devil-like holiday figures make good copy, his collaborations with Bachan and Dean Kotz, the hazards of self-publishing, and the sickeningly sweet and sinister connections between Steven Spielberg and sugar plum fairies. Brian points out, as well, that he’s not a defiler of childhood memories, and that kids should stay in school, not do drugs, and follow their creative imaginations. Mon, 06 Jan 2014 16:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sticking It to Steven Spielberg…Yeah! On The Comics Alternative‘s first interview of 2014, Gene and Derek are joined by Brian Joines, the writer of the recent comic book series I.M.A.G.I.N.E. Agents (BOOM! Studios) and Krampus (Image Comics). They talk with Brian about how great 2013 was for him, the genesis of his new titles, his apparent fascination with the darker side of childhood, why devil-like holiday figures make good copy, his collaborations with Bachan and Dean Kotz, the hazards of self-publishing, and the sickeningly sweet and sinister connections between Steven Spielberg and sugar plum fairies. Brian points out, as well, that he’s not a defiler of childhood memories, and that kids should stay in school, not do drugs, and follow their creative imaginations. On The Comics Alternative‘s first interview of 2014, Gene and Derek are joined by Brian Joines, the writer of the recent comic book series I.M.A.G.I.N.E. Agents (BOOM! Studios) and Krampus (Image Comics). They talk with Brian about how great 2013 was for him, the genesis of his new titles, his apparent fascination with the darker side of childhood, why devil-like holiday figures make good copy, his collaborations with Bachan and Dean Kotz, the hazards of self-publishing, and the sickeningly sweet and sinister connections between Steven Spielberg and sugar plum fairies. Brian points out, as well, that he’s not a defiler of childhood memories, and that kids should stay in school, not do drugs, and follow their creative imaginations.

]]> 3944 no Episode 68 - A Review of Six Digital Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-68.mp3 Happy New Year, and welcome to another episode of The Comics Alternative! To start off 2014, Andy and Derek discuss six relatively recent digital comics: Tim Gibson’s Moth City, Chris Sheridan’s Motorcycle Samurai (Top Shelf), Joshua Hale Fialkov and Joe Infurnari’s The Bunker, Fred Van Lente and Ryan Dunlavey’s Action Presidents, Brian Winkeler and Robert Wilson IV’s Knuckleheads (Monkeybrain Comics), and Jeremy Holt and Chris Peterson’s Pulp.  They begin by focusing on the two titles that utilize the digital format the fullest, Moth City and Motorcycle Samurai, and how the authors use the technology to enhance their storytelling. Derek and Andy discuss the unique nature of these works and how much would be lost if these titles were offered in print form. From there they move on to The Bunker, Knuckleheads, and Action Presidents, appreciating how the creators use digital technology yet noting that these titles could easily be adapted into physical format without losing much of anything (and as we will see soon, when The Bunker is released by Oni Press). Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs look at the one-shot, Pulp, admiring not only its complex narrative structure, but also the fact that Holt and Peterson chose to market their comic as a “pay what you will” title, much like Brian K. Vaughn and Marcos Martin have done with The Private Eye. Along the way, the guys discuss the general state of digital comics, issues of cost and distribution, the pros and cons of the technological layout, the marketing potential of the format, and how what we now call “digital comics” or “webcomics” is a hybrid form that is challenging our understanding, and our definitions, of “comics.” Much thanks to the creators who contacted Andy and Derek about their digital works, as well as to the many listeners — and you know who you are — who recommended certain titles and lobbied for the Two Guys to finally do an episode devoted to digital comics. Wed, 01 Jan 2014 18:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Assholity…is that a word?” Happy New Year, and welcome to another episode of The Comics Alternative! To start off 2014, Andy and Derek discuss six relatively recent digital comics: Tim Gibson’s Moth City, Chris Sheridan’s Motorcycle Samurai (Top Shelf), Joshua Hale Fialkov and Joe Infurnari’s The Bunker, Fred Van Lente and Ryan Dunlavey’s Action Presidents, Brian Winkeler and Robert Wilson IV’s Knuckleheads (Monkeybrain Comics), and Jeremy Holt and Chris Peterson’s Pulp.  They begin by focusing on the two titles that utilize the digital format the fullest, Moth City and Motorcycle Samurai, and how the authors use the technology to enhance their storytelling. Derek and Andy discuss the unique nature of these works and how much would be lost if these titles were offered in print form. From there they move on to The Bunker, Knuckleheads, and Action Presidents, appreciating how the creators use digital technology yet noting that these titles could easily be adapted into physical format without losing much of anything (and as we will see soon, when The Bunker is released by Oni Press). Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs look at the one-shot, Pulp, admiring not only its complex narrative structure, but also the fact that Holt and Peterson chose to market their comic as a “pay what you will” title, much like Brian K. Vaughn and Marcos Martin have done with The Private Eye. Along the way, the guys discuss the general state of digital comics, issues of cost and distribution, the pros and cons of the technological layout, the marketing potential of the format, and how what we now call “digital comics” or “webcomics” is a hybrid form that is challenging our understanding, and our definitions, of “comics.” Much thanks to the creators who contacted Andy and Derek about their digital works, as well as to the many listeners — and you know who you are — who recommended certain titles and lobbied for the Two Guys to finally do an episode devoted to digital comics. Happy New Year, and welcome to another episode of The Comics Alternative! To start off 2014, Andy and Derek discuss six relatively recent digital comics: Tim Gibson’s Moth City, Chris Sheridan’s Motorcycle Samurai (Top Shelf), Joshua Hale Fialkov and Joe Infurnari’s The Bunker, Fred Van Lente and Ryan Dunlavey’s Action Presidents, Brian Winkeler and Robert Wilson IV’s Knuckleheads (Monkeybrain Comics), and Jeremy Holt and Chris Peterson’s Pulp.  They begin by focusing on the two titles that utilize the digital format the fullest, Moth City and Motorcycle Samurai, and how the authors use the technology to enhance their storytelling. Derek and Andy discuss the unique nature of these works and how much would be lost if these titles were offered in print form. From there they move on to The Bunker, Knuckleheads, and Action Presidents, appreciating how the creators use digital technology yet noting that these titles could easily be adapted into physical format without losing much of anything (and as we will see soon, when The Bunker is released by Oni Press). Finally, the Two Guys with PhDs look at the one-shot, Pulp, admiring not only its complex narrative structure, but also the fact that Holt and Peterson chose to market their comic as a “pay what you will” title, much like Brian K. Vaughn and Marcos Martin have done with The Private Eye. Along the way, the guys discuss the general state of digital comics, issues of cost and distribution, the pros and cons of the technological layout, the marketing potential of the format, and how what we now call “digital comics” or “webcomics” is a hybrid form that is challenging our understanding, and our definitions, of “comics.” Much thanks to the creators who contacted Andy and Derek about their digital works, as well as to the many listeners — and you know who you are — who recommended certain titles and lobbied for the Two Guys to finally do an episode devoted to digital comics.

]]> 5802 no Episode 67 - Our Favorite Comics of 2013 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-67.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) like to end the year by highlighting their favorite titles of the past twelve months. These could be ongoing series, limited runs or miniseries, one-shots, trades, original graphic novels, webcomics, or archival collections. So for this week’s episode, Derek and Andy each choose their favorite ten comics from 2013 and then share that list with one another. They don’t necessarily rank them in any order — although Andy does reveal the #1 title on his list — and neither knows of the other’s ten favorites before they record the podcast. As such, the Guys not only have a great time discussing the year’s best comics, but also in discovering what each other feels is truly his favorite. There are a few overlaps between Andy and Derek’s choices, but even more significantly, there are some big surprises in each one’s list! Wed, 25 Dec 2013 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Our Favorites…’Nuf Said! The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) like to end the year by highlighting their favorite titles of the past twelve months. These could be ongoing series, limited runs or miniseries, one-shots, trades, original graphic novels, webcomics, or archival collections. So for this week’s episode, Derek and Andy each choose their favorite ten comics from 2013 and then share that list with one another. They don’t necessarily rank them in any order — although Andy does reveal the #1 title on his list — and neither knows of the other’s ten favorites before they record the podcast. As such, the Guys not only have a great time discussing the year’s best comics, but also in discovering what each other feels is truly his favorite. There are a few overlaps between Andy and Derek’s choices, but even more significantly, there are some big surprises in each one’s list! The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) like to end the year by highlighting their favorite titles of the past twelve months. These could be ongoing series, limited runs or miniseries, one-shots, trades, original graphic novels, webcomics, or archival collections. So for this week’s episode, Derek and Andy each choose their favorite ten comics from 2013 and then share that list with one another. They don’t necessarily rank them in any order — although Andy does reveal the #1 title on his list — and neither knows of the other’s ten favorites before they record the podcast. As such, the Guys not only have a great time discussing the year’s best comics, but also in discovering what each other feels is truly his favorite. There are a few overlaps between Andy and Derek’s choices, but even more significantly, there are some big surprises in each one’s list!

]]> 7696 no Episode 66.1 - A Discussion of the Year in Review at Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-66-1.mp3 For this month’s on-location show, Derek heads back to Collected Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with Shea Hennum and other shop employees about the past year in comics. The conversation begins with a look at some of the highlights from 2013, the best titles to come out of the year, movies and television programs based on comics, and some of the most memorable publishing events — or just events, in general — in comics. Shea and Derek also discuss some of the trends they saw developing over the past twelve months, including the impressive output of such major creators as Paul Pope and Gilbert Hernandez. Without turning too negative, they also mention some of the disappointments or lackluster moments from 2013, but then they counterbalance that with their hopes for new things that will be coming out in 2014. This is the perfect show to set the stage for Andy and Derek’s much-anticipated end-of-the-year episode, where they will share what they consider to be the best titles in 2013. Fri, 20 Dec 2013 15:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Looking Back at 2013 For this month’s on-location show, Derek heads back to Collected Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with Shea Hennum and other shop employees about the past year in comics. The conversation begins with a look at some of the highlights from 2013, the best titles to come out of the year, movies and television programs based on comics, and some of the most memorable publishing events — or just events, in general — in comics. Shea and Derek also discuss some of the trends they saw developing over the past twelve months, including the impressive output of such major creators as Paul Pope and Gilbert Hernandez. Without turning too negative, they also mention some of the disappointments or lackluster moments from 2013, but then they counterbalance that with their hopes for new things that will be coming out in 2014. This is the perfect show to set the stage for Andy and Derek’s much-anticipated end-of-the-year episode, where they will share what they consider to be the best titles in 2013. For this month’s on-location show, Derek heads back to Collected Comics in Plano, TX, to talk with Shea Hennum and other shop employees about the past year in comics. The conversation begins with a look at some of the highlights from 2013, the best titles to come out of the year, movies and television programs based on comics, and some of the most memorable publishing events — or just events, in general — in comics. Shea and Derek also discuss some of the trends they saw developing over the past twelve months, including the impressive output of such major creators as Paul Pope and Gilbert Hernandez. Without turning too negative, they also mention some of the disappointments or lackluster moments from 2013, but then they counterbalance that with their hopes for new things that will be coming out in 2014. This is the perfect show to set the stage for Andy and Derek’s much-anticipated end-of-the-year episode, where they will share what they consider to be the best titles in 2013.

]]> 6038 no Episode 66 - A Review of The Best American Comics 2013 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-66.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take their annual look at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s The Best American Comics collection (including material published between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2012), this year edited by Jeff Smith. They begin by noting that this volume is significant for several reasons, not the least of which is the fact that this is the last to be overseen by series editors Jessica Abel and Matt Madden. Andy and Derek marvel at the work the two have been doing since they began with the 2008 volume, and they wish Abel and Madden well in their future endeavors…and they look forward to seeing what the new series editor, Bill Kartalopoulos, will bring to the table. The guys highlight what they consider to be their favorite contributions to the 2013 volume, specifically commenting on the sheer number of entries that originally appeared in Dark Horse Presents. They also discuss the need for a book such as this to introduce readers to new material, the pros and cons of excerpting from longer works — Derek noted the potential pitfalls of the practice, although Andy was more accepting — how the 2013 volume differs from  previous years’ collections, the kind of trends they see in this year’s volume, the fact that Evan Dorkin has two different kinds of contributions in the book, the growing representation of webcomics in these yearly volumes, and the dominance of comics anthologies in Smith’s collection as well as the relatively little attention this year given to serialized titles. (Were there just not that many “good” serialized comics between September 2011 and August 2012?) The Two Guys also get into a larger discussion of the very idea of publishing a “best of” anthology of this type. The “best” according to whom? Might there be certain biases involved? What’s the role of editorial predilection? Who is included as part of the “best,” who is excluded, and why? They don’t attempt to second guess this year’s volume editor, Jeff Smith, but they do think it’s important to keep these questions in mind. Well…Derek does. He had a problem with the “Best” part of the title and would feel more comfortable with a different name. Andy thought that Derek was being too critical in addressing the series name. Derek said that maybe Andy should change his name, as well. But once again, the Two Guys with PhDs hearty recommendation the annual Best American Comics collection, marvel at the gargantuan task undertaken by the editor, and thoroughly enjoy the many contributions collected between the covers! Wed, 18 Dec 2013 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Best. Best! or Best? This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take their annual look at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s The Best American Comics collection (including material published between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2012), this year edited by Jeff Smith. They begin by noting that this volume is significant for several reasons, not the least of which is the fact that this is the last to be overseen by series editors Jessica Abel and Matt Madden. Andy and Derek marvel at the work the two have been doing since they began with the 2008 volume, and they wish Abel and Madden well in their future endeavors…and they look forward to seeing what the new series editor, Bill Kartalopoulos, will bring to the table. The guys highlight what they consider to be their favorite contributions to the 2013 volume, specifically commenting on the sheer number of entries that originally appeared in Dark Horse Presents. They also discuss the need for a book such as this to introduce readers to new material, the pros and cons of excerpting from longer works — Derek noted the potential pitfalls of the practice, although Andy was more accepting — how the 2013 volume differs from  previous years’ collections, the kind of trends they see in this year’s volume, the fact that Evan Dorkin has two different kinds of contributions in the book, the growing representation of webcomics in these yearly volumes, and the dominance of comics anthologies in Smith’s collection as well as the relatively little attention this year given to serialized titles. (Were there just not that many “good” serialized comics between September 2011 and August 2012?) The Two Guys also get into a larger discussion of the very idea of publishing a “best of” anthology of this type. The “best” according to whom? Might there be certain biases involved? What’s the role of editorial predilection? Who is included as part of the “best,” who is excluded, and why? They don’t attempt to second guess this year’s volume editor, Jeff Smith, but they do think it’s important to keep these questions in mind. Well…Derek does. He had a problem with the “Best” part of the title and would feel more comfortable with a different name. Andy thought that Derek was being too critical in addressing the series name. Derek said that maybe Andy should change his name, as well. But once again, the Two Guys with PhDs hearty recommendation the annual Best American Comics collection, marvel at the gargantuan task undertaken by the editor, and thoroughly enjoy the many contributions collected between the covers! This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics take their annual look at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s The Best American Comics collection (including material published between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2012), this year edited by Jeff Smith. They begin by noting that this volume is significant for several reasons, not the least of which is the fact that this is the last to be overseen by series editors Jessica Abel and Matt Madden. Andy and Derek marvel at the work the two have been doing since they began with the 2008 volume, and they wish Abel and Madden well in their future endeavors…and they look forward to seeing what the new series editor, Bill Kartalopoulos, will bring to the table. The guys highlight what they consider to be their favorite contributions to the 2013 volume, specifically commenting on the sheer number of entries that originally appeared in Dark Horse Presents. They also discuss the need for a book such as this to introduce readers to new material, the pros and cons of excerpting from longer works — Derek noted the potential pitfalls of the practice, although Andy was more accepting — how the 2013 volume differs from  previous years’ collections, the kind of trends they see in this year’s volume, the fact that Evan Dorkin has two different kinds of contributions in the book, the growing representation of webcomics in these yearly volumes, and the dominance of comics anthologies in Smith’s collection as well as the relatively little attention this year given to serialized titles. (Were there just not that many “good” serialized comics between September 2011 and August 2012?) The Two Guys also get into a larger discussion of the very idea of publishing a “best of” anthology of this type. The “best” according to whom? Might there be certain biases involved? What’s the role of editorial predilection? Who is included as part of the “best,” who is excluded, and why? They don’t attempt to second guess this year’s volume editor, Jeff Smith, but they do think it’s important to keep these questions in mind. Well…Derek does. He had a problem with the “Best” part of the title and would feel more comfortable with a different name. Andy thought that Derek was being too critical in addressing the series name. Derek said that maybe Andy should change his name, as well. But once again, the Two Guys with PhDs hearty recommendation the annual Best American Comics collection, marvel at the gargantuan task undertaken by the editor, and thoroughly enjoy the many contributions collected between the covers!

]]> 4872 no Episode 65 - A Review of Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 6, Maria M.: Book One, and Pretty Deadly #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-65.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics review three new titles, and boy, are they geared up! They begin by looking at the Hernandez brothers’ latest issue of Love and Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics). Focusing first on Jaime’s contributions, they comment on how his narratives have evolved after the “Love Bunglers” storyline from issues number 3 and 4 of New Stories. They’re particularly interested in Jaime’s deeper exploration of the family of Vivian Solis, AKA Frogmouth, especially as it relates to Tonta and the reappearance of Angel Rivera (last seen in the “Ti-Girls Adventures”). Next, Andy and Derek delve into Gilbert’s contribution to the latest New Stories, spending a good deal of time doing close readings of the multiple narrative levels at work: the current story of Dora “Killer” Rivera’s visit to Palomar, the flashbacks to her deceased aunt and great-grandmother, and the films surrounding her great-grandmother, Maria. Here, the Two Guys bring up Gilbert’s new graphic novel, Maria M.: Book One (Fantagraphics), and how it plays off of so well the new Love and Rockets. They look at Maria M. not only as another installment of Fritz’s b-movie books — along with Chance in Hell, The Troublemakers, and Love from the Shadows — but also, and perhaps more significantly, as a point of convergence among the various generations of Luba’s family. While Andy feels that Maria M. is a kind of retelling of Poison River (one of the most significant storylines in the first volume of Love and Rockets), Derek sees it as more of a prequel or lead-up to that narrative. Finally, the guys look at the first issue of Kelly Sue DeConnick and Emma Ríos’s Pretty Deadly (Image Comics). They discuss the density of comic, while at the same time commenting on the decompressed nature of the series’ premise. There is a lot packed into this episode, plenty of close and detailed readings, and you’re going to have to listen to this show multiple times in order to savor every drop of the Two Guys’ insights…for what they’re worth. Wed, 11 Dec 2013 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “There’s more than one severed penis in this comic.” This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics review three new titles, and boy, are they geared up! They begin by looking at the Hernandez brothers’ latest issue of Love and Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics). Focusing first on Jaime’s contributions, they comment on how his narratives have evolved after the “Love Bunglers” storyline from issues number 3 and 4 of New Stories. They’re particularly interested in Jaime’s deeper exploration of the family of Vivian Solis, AKA Frogmouth, especially as it relates to Tonta and the reappearance of Angel Rivera (last seen in the “Ti-Girls Adventures”). Next, Andy and Derek delve into Gilbert’s contribution to the latest New Stories, spending a good deal of time doing close readings of the multiple narrative levels at work: the current story of Dora “Killer” Rivera’s visit to Palomar, the flashbacks to her deceased aunt and great-grandmother, and the films surrounding her great-grandmother, Maria. Here, the Two Guys bring up Gilbert’s new graphic novel, Maria M.: Book One (Fantagraphics), and how it plays off of so well the new Love and Rockets. They look at Maria M. not only as another installment of Fritz’s b-movie books — along with Chance in Hell, The Troublemakers, and Love from the Shadows — but also, and perhaps more significantly, as a point of convergence among the various generations of Luba’s family. While Andy feels that Maria M. is a kind of retelling of Poison River (one of the most significant storylines in the first volume of Love and Rockets), Derek sees it as more of a prequel or lead-up to that narrative. Finally, the guys look at the first issue of Kelly Sue DeConnick and Emma Ríos’s Pretty Deadly (Image Comics). They discuss the density of comic, while at the same time commenting on the decompressed nature of the series’ premise. There is a lot packed into this episode, plenty of close and detailed readings, and you’re going to have to listen to this show multiple times in order to savor every drop of the Two Guys’ insights…for what they’re worth. This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics review three new titles, and boy, are they geared up! They begin by looking at the Hernandez brothers’ latest issue of Love and Rockets: New Stories (Fantagraphics). Focusing first on Jaime’s contributions, they comment on how his narratives have evolved after the “Love Bunglers” storyline from issues number 3 and 4 of New Stories. They’re particularly interested in Jaime’s deeper exploration of the family of Vivian Solis, AKA Frogmouth, especially as it relates to Tonta and the reappearance of Angel Rivera (last seen in the “Ti-Girls Adventures”). Next, Andy and Derek delve into Gilbert’s contribution to the latest New Stories, spending a good deal of time doing close readings of the multiple narrative levels at work: the current story of Dora “Killer” Rivera’s visit to Palomar, the flashbacks to her deceased aunt and great-grandmother, and the films surrounding her great-grandmother, Maria. Here, the Two Guys bring up Gilbert’s new graphic novel, Maria M.: Book One (Fantagraphics), and how it plays off of so well the new Love and Rockets. They look at Maria M. not only as another installment of Fritz’s b-movie books — along with Chance in Hell, The Troublemakers, and Love from the Shadows — but also, and perhaps more significantly, as a point of convergence among the various generations of Luba’s family. While Andy feels that Maria M. is a kind of retelling of Poison River (one of the most significant storylines in the first volume of Love and Rockets), Derek sees it as more of a prequel or lead-up to that narrative. Finally, the guys look at the first issue of Kelly Sue DeConnick and Emma Ríos’s Pretty Deadly (Image Comics). They discuss the density of comic, while at the same time commenting on the decompressed nature of the series’ premise. There is a lot packed into this episode, plenty of close and detailed readings, and you’re going to have to listen to this show multiple times in order to savor every drop of the Two Guys’ insights…for what they’re worth.

]]> 5471 no Interviews - Zak Sally http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews5-Sally.mp3 On this interview episode, Andy, Gene, and Derek talk with Zak Sally, the creator behind Like a Dog,  Recidivist, and Sammy the Mouse…a narrative that Derek calls “the Waiting for Godot of comics.” His second installment in the planned four-book Sammy the Mouse series just recently came out from Uncivilized Books, and the guys discuss with Zak the genesis of that project and his strategies for plotting the story. Zak also talks about his beginnings with zines in the 1990s;  music and his time with the band, Low; his efforts with La Mano, his own publishing arm (pun intended); his work on the upcoming fourth issue of Recidivist; the artistic limitations of Tumblr; and his experiences in Duluth and Minneapolis. Along the way, the conversation (de)evolves into a discussion of Battle of the Network Stars, Telly Savalas commercials for Duluth, and how the name “Dylan” is actually pronounced in Hibbing, Minnesota. Tue, 10 Dec 2013 01:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Three-fingered talking animals…they don’t own that shit.” On this interview episode, Andy, Gene, and Derek talk with Zak Sally, the creator behind Like a Dog,  Recidivist, and Sammy the Mouse…a narrative that Derek calls “the Waiting for Godot of comics.” His second installment in the planned four-book Sammy the Mouse series just recently came out from Uncivilized Books, and the guys discuss with Zak the genesis of that project and his strategies for plotting the story. Zak also talks about his beginnings with zines in the 1990s;  music and his time with the band, Low; his efforts with La Mano, his own publishing arm (pun intended); his work on the upcoming fourth issue of Recidivist; the artistic limitations of Tumblr; and his experiences in Duluth and Minneapolis. Along the way, the conversation (de)evolves into a discussion of Battle of the Network Stars, Telly Savalas commercials for Duluth, and how the name “Dylan” is actually pronounced in Hibbing, Minnesota. On this interview episode, Andy, Gene, and Derek talk with Zak Sally, the creator behind Like a Dog,  Recidivist, and Sammy the Mouse…a narrative that Derek calls “the Waiting for Godot of comics.” His second installment in the planned four-book Sammy the Mouse series just recently came out from Uncivilized Books, and the guys discuss with Zak the genesis of that project and his strategies for plotting the story. Zak also talks about his beginnings with zines in the 1990s;  music and his time with the band, Low; his efforts with La Mano, his own publishing arm (pun intended); his work on the upcoming fourth issue of Recidivist; the artistic limitations of Tumblr; and his experiences in Duluth and Minneapolis. Along the way, the conversation (de)evolves into a discussion of Battle of the Network Stars, Telly Savalas commercials for Duluth, and how the name “Dylan” is actually pronounced in Hibbing, Minnesota.

]]> 4685 yes Episode 64 - The December Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-64.mp3 It’s time again for the Two Guys with PhDs to go through the monthly Previews catalog. This time around there are a number of noteworthy solicits to mention, including Fatima: The Blood Spinners, The White Suits #1, and Someplace Strange (from Dark Horse); The Royals #1 and Daytripper: Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); Red Panda: The Mask of the Red Panda (IDW Publishing); The Fuse #1, The Revenger #1, and The Mercenary Sea #1 (Image Comics); Sanctuary (Slave Labor Graphics); A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court (Bloomsbury); Turok: Dinosaur Hunter #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); Walt before Skeezix: 1919-1920 and the new printing of The Fixer (Drawn and Quarterly); Zero Hour and Other Stories, Insect Bath #1, and Cannon (Fantagraphics); The Bunker #1 (Oni Press); The Simon and Kirby Library: Horror (Titan Books); Tippy and the Night Parade (Toon Books); The Bojeffries Saga and Alone Forever (Top Shelf); and American Comic Book Chronicles: 1965-1969 (TwoMorrows Publishing). Also in this episode: Andy discusses the merits of buying local for his family dinner, and Derek shares a rabbit-induced trauma from his childhood.  Oh…and there’s some good general comics talk. Wed, 04 Dec 2013 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Rabbits, Pets, or Meat” or “Packaging Goes a Long Way” It’s time again for the Two Guys with PhDs to go through the monthly Previews catalog. This time around there are a number of noteworthy solicits to mention, including Fatima: The Blood Spinners, The White Suits #1, and Someplace Strange (from Dark Horse); The Royals #1 and Daytripper: Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); Red Panda: The Mask of the Red Panda (IDW Publishing); The Fuse #1, The Revenger #1, and The Mercenary Sea #1 (Image Comics); Sanctuary (Slave Labor Graphics); A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court (Bloomsbury); Turok: Dinosaur Hunter #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); Walt before Skeezix: 1919-1920 and the new printing of The Fixer (Drawn and Quarterly); Zero Hour and Other Stories, Insect Bath #1, and Cannon (Fantagraphics); The Bunker #1 (Oni Press); The Simon and Kirby Library: Horror (Titan Books); Tippy and the Night Parade (Toon Books); The Bojeffries Saga and Alone Forever (Top Shelf); and American Comic Book Chronicles: 1965-1969 (TwoMorrows Publishing). Also in this episode: Andy discusses the merits of buying local for his family dinner, and Derek shares a rabbit-induced trauma from his childhood.  Oh…and there’s some good general comics talk. It’s time again for the Two Guys with PhDs to go through the monthly Previews catalog. This time around there are a number of noteworthy solicits to mention, including Fatima: The Blood Spinners, The White Suits #1, and Someplace Strange (from Dark Horse); The Royals #1 and Daytripper: Deluxe Edition (DC/Vertigo); Red Panda: The Mask of the Red Panda (IDW Publishing); The Fuse #1, The Revenger #1, and The Mercenary Sea #1 (Image Comics); Sanctuary (Slave Labor Graphics); A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court (Bloomsbury); Turok: Dinosaur Hunter #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); Walt before Skeezix: 1919-1920 and the new printing of The Fixer (Drawn and Quarterly); Zero Hour and Other Stories, Insect Bath #1, and Cannon (Fantagraphics); The Bunker #1 (Oni Press); The Simon and Kirby Library: Horror (Titan Books); Tippy and the Night Parade (Toon Books); The Bojeffries Saga and Alone Forever (Top Shelf); and American Comic Book Chronicles: 1965-1969 (TwoMorrows Publishing). Also in this episode: Andy discusses the merits of buying local for his family dinner, and Derek shares a rabbit-induced trauma from his childhood.  Oh…and there’s some good general comics talk.

]]> 6288 no Episode 63.1 - The Comics and Social Media Panel at the Wizard World Austin Comic Con http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-63-1.mp3 On this special “point one” show, we present a recording of the Comics and Social Media Panel held at the Wizard World Austin Comic Con on November 22nd. Derek Royal and Shea Hennum were two of the discussants on that panel, along with John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast and Russell Latham of The Longbox of Doom podcast. The title of the panel was “Comics and Social Media: The How-To, the How-Much and the Why,” and during the session the four presenters took questions from the audience and shared their various experiences. Among the topics discussed were how to set up blogs and podcasts; the kinds of ways to use social media; how to reach an intended audience via Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr; strategies for contacting publishers and creators; what to expect in terms of set-up and maintenance costs; what kind of software and hardware is needed for your intended purposes; and why anyone would want to make all this effort just to share their opinions and insights on comics. There was a lot of information crammed into that 45-minute panel, and we hope that our recording of the session will be of use to our listeners, as well. Fri, 29 Nov 2013 22:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal How To from Who Do On this special “point one” show, we present a recording of the Comics and Social Media Panel held at the Wizard World Austin Comic Con on November 22nd. Derek Royal and Shea Hennum were two of the discussants on that panel, along with John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast and Russell Latham of The Longbox of Doom podcast. The title of the panel was “Comics and Social Media: The How-To, the How-Much and the Why,” and during the session the four presenters took questions from the audience and shared their various experiences. Among the topics discussed were how to set up blogs and podcasts; the kinds of ways to use social media; how to reach an intended audience via Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr; strategies for contacting publishers and creators; what to expect in terms of set-up and maintenance costs; what kind of software and hardware is needed for your intended purposes; and why anyone would want to make all this effort just to share their opinions and insights on comics. There was a lot of information crammed into that 45-minute panel, and we hope that our recording of the session will be of use to our listeners, as well. On this special “point one” show, we present a recording of the Comics and Social Media Panel held at the Wizard World Austin Comic Con on November 22nd. Derek Royal and Shea Hennum were two of the discussants on that panel, along with John Mayo of The Comic Book Page podcast and Russell Latham of The Longbox of Doom podcast. The title of the panel was “Comics and Social Media: The How-To, the How-Much and the Why,” and during the session the four presenters took questions from the audience and shared their various experiences. Among the topics discussed were how to set up blogs and podcasts; the kinds of ways to use social media; how to reach an intended audience via Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr; strategies for contacting publishers and creators; what to expect in terms of set-up and maintenance costs; what kind of software and hardware is needed for your intended purposes; and why anyone would want to make all this effort just to share their opinions and insights on comics. There was a lot of information crammed into that 45-minute panel, and we hope that our recording of the session will be of use to our listeners, as well.

]]> 3450 no Episode 63 - Our Special Thanksgiving Show http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-63.mp3 This being the week of Thanksgiving, Andy and Derek thought that they would use this week’s show to share what they are thankful for regarding comics. And one of the first things that they are thankful for is the company of Gene Kannenberg, Jr., who joins the guys to give his own comics-inspired thanks. Together, the Three Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics reveal their thankfulness for a variety of things, including some of the comics events they have attended this year, the creators they have had the good fortunate to meet and/or interview, the publishers who consistently put out the best material, the innovators who continue to push the boundaries of the medium, the writing styles that never fail to disappoint, and the series that offer some of the most significant archival works and with the best reproduction quality available. There are no turkeys here…only the most appetizing menu you can imagine. And Happy Hanukkah as well! Wed, 27 Nov 2013 16:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Wilt heden nu treden“ This being the week of Thanksgiving, Andy and Derek thought that they would use this week’s show to share what they are thankful for regarding comics. And one of the first things that they are thankful for is the company of Gene Kannenberg, Jr., who joins the guys to give his own comics-inspired thanks. Together, the Three Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics reveal their thankfulness for a variety of things, including some of the comics events they have attended this year, the creators they have had the good fortunate to meet and/or interview, the publishers who consistently put out the best material, the innovators who continue to push the boundaries of the medium, the writing styles that never fail to disappoint, and the series that offer some of the most significant archival works and with the best reproduction quality available. There are no turkeys here…only the most appetizing menu you can imagine. And Happy Hanukkah as well! This being the week of Thanksgiving, Andy and Derek thought that they would use this week’s show to share what they are thankful for regarding comics. And one of the first things that they are thankful for is the company of Gene Kannenberg, Jr., who joins the guys to give his own comics-inspired thanks. Together, the Three Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics reveal their thankfulness for a variety of things, including some of the comics events they have attended this year, the creators they have had the good fortunate to meet and/or interview, the publishers who consistently put out the best material, the innovators who continue to push the boundaries of the medium, the writing styles that never fail to disappoint, and the series that offer some of the most significant archival works and with the best reproduction quality available. There are no turkeys here…only the most appetizing menu you can imagine. And Happy Hanukkah as well!

]]> 3840 no Interviews - Vivek Tiwary http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews4-Tiwary.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Derek and Gene talk with Vivek Tiwary about his recently published The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story (Dark Horse Books). In their conversation, Vivek discusses the genesis of his book, his personal and professional interests in Brian Epstein, the challenges of being a first-time graphic novel writer, and his dogged efforts to accurately represent the life The Beatles’ manager. Gene and Derek also ask Vivek about working with artists Andrew C. Robinson and Kyle Baker, as well as information on plans to turn The Fifth Beatle into a movie. There’s a lot of information packed into this show, all part of an effort to bring renewed — and sorely needed — attention to the man who made The Beatles into a cultural phenomenon. Tue, 26 Nov 2013 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal All You Need Is Love On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Derek and Gene talk with Vivek Tiwary about his recently published The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story (Dark Horse Books). In their conversation, Vivek discusses the genesis of his book, his personal and professional interests in Brian Epstein, the challenges of being a first-time graphic novel writer, and his dogged efforts to accurately represent the life The Beatles’ manager. Gene and Derek also ask Vivek about working with artists Andrew C. Robinson and Kyle Baker, as well as information on plans to turn The Fifth Beatle into a movie. There’s a lot of information packed into this show, all part of an effort to bring renewed — and sorely needed — attention to the man who made The Beatles into a cultural phenomenon. On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews Derek and Gene talk with Vivek Tiwary about his recently published The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story (Dark Horse Books). In their conversation, Vivek discusses the genesis of his book, his personal and professional interests in Brian Epstein, the challenges of being a first-time graphic novel writer, and his dogged efforts to accurately represent the life The Beatles’ manager. Gene and Derek also ask Vivek about working with artists Andrew C. Robinson and Kyle Baker, as well as information on plans to turn The Fifth Beatle into a movie. There’s a lot of information packed into this show, all part of an effort to bring renewed — and sorely needed — attention to the man who made The Beatles into a cultural phenomenon.

]]> 4872 no Episode 62.1 - Talking Comics at Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-62-1.mp3 The Comics Alternative is back for its monthly on-location show at Collected Comics in Plano. Joining Derek on this episode is Collected employee and good friend of the show, Shea Hennum. This month there is no particular theme or specific topic of discussion, so the guys engage in general comics talk. Shea and Derek discuss the things that they’re reading, the titles that have been released over the past couple of weeks, and what to look forward to in the months to come. Shea is particularly excited about recent releases, and he waxes over the many titles that now make up his “to read” list. As always, it’s a fun time talking at Collected Comics in Plano, so come listen to the episode and experience the joy. Fri, 22 Nov 2013 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Things and Stuff The Comics Alternative is back for its monthly on-location show at Collected Comics in Plano. Joining Derek on this episode is Collected employee and good friend of the show, Shea Hennum. This month there is no particular theme or specific topic of discussion, so the guys engage in general comics talk. Shea and Derek discuss the things that they’re reading, the titles that have been released over the past couple of weeks, and what to look forward to in the months to come. Shea is particularly excited about recent releases, and he waxes over the many titles that now make up his “to read” list. As always, it’s a fun time talking at Collected Comics in Plano, so come listen to the episode and experience the joy. The Comics Alternative is back for its monthly on-location show at Collected Comics in Plano. Joining Derek on this episode is Collected employee and good friend of the show, Shea Hennum. This month there is no particular theme or specific topic of discussion, so the guys engage in general comics talk. Shea and Derek discuss the things that they’re reading, the titles that have been released over the past couple of weeks, and what to look forward to in the months to come. Shea is particularly excited about recent releases, and he waxes over the many titles that now make up his “to read” list. As always, it’s a fun time talking at Collected Comics in Plano, so come listen to the episode and experience the joy.

]]> 4462 no Episode 62 - A Roundtable Discussion on Licensed Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-62.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) are back with another roundtable discussion, and this time the topic is licensed comics. Joining them again are their podcasting pals, John Mayo from The Comic Book Page and Chris Marshall from Collected Comics Library. Springing from Chris’s suggestion that they talk about licensed properties — and fostered by Andy’s uncanny fascination with ROM and The Micronauts — the four comics dudes cover a wide swath of pop culture history regarding the trans-media nature of certain properties. There’s a lot to talk about with this topic, and the guys try to get as much in as they can. Along the way they discuss comic-book manifestations of Star Trek, Star Wars, G. I. Joe, My Little Pony, Doctor Who, MacGyver, The Bionic Man, Doc Savage, The Spirit, The Monkees, various Disney properties, and personality-based comics such those published on The Beatles, Bob Hope, and Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis (one of Derek’s favorites). The four guys all highlight their favorite licensed titles, and they even propose a few new possibilities as a sort of wish list. Wed, 20 Nov 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fully Licensed for Your Listening Pleasure The Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) are back with another roundtable discussion, and this time the topic is licensed comics. Joining them again are their podcasting pals, John Mayo from The Comic Book Page and Chris Marshall from Collected Comics Library. Springing from Chris’s suggestion that they talk about licensed properties — and fostered by Andy’s uncanny fascination with ROM and The Micronauts — the four comics dudes cover a wide swath of pop culture history regarding the trans-media nature of certain properties. There’s a lot to talk about with this topic, and the guys try to get as much in as they can. Along the way they discuss comic-book manifestations of Star Trek, Star Wars, G. I. Joe, My Little Pony, Doctor Who, MacGyver, The Bionic Man, Doc Savage, The Spirit, The Monkees, various Disney properties, and personality-based comics such those published on The Beatles, Bob Hope, and Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis (one of Derek’s favorites). The four guys all highlight their favorite licensed titles, and they even propose a few new possibilities as a sort of wish list. The Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) are back with another roundtable discussion, and this time the topic is licensed comics. Joining them again are their podcasting pals, John Mayo from The Comic Book Page and Chris Marshall from Collected Comics Library. Springing from Chris’s suggestion that they talk about licensed properties — and fostered by Andy’s uncanny fascination with ROM and The Micronauts — the four comics dudes cover a wide swath of pop culture history regarding the trans-media nature of certain properties. There’s a lot to talk about with this topic, and the guys try to get as much in as they can. Along the way they discuss comic-book manifestations of Star Trek, Star Wars, G. I. Joe, My Little Pony, Doctor Who, MacGyver, The Bionic Man, Doc Savage, The Spirit, The Monkees, various Disney properties, and personality-based comics such those published on The Beatles, Bob Hope, and Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis (one of Derek’s favorites). The four guys all highlight their favorite licensed titles, and they even propose a few new possibilities as a sort of wish list.

]]> 6647 no Interviews - Craig Yoe http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews3-Yoe.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Gene and Derek talk with editor, archivist, comics historian, and pop cultural Renaissance Man, Craig Yoe. The interview gets off to a wild start with a discussion of  Secret Identity: The Fetish Art of Superman’s Co-Creator Joe Shuster, a book that Craig says helped to put him on the publishing map. From there they highlight several of Yoe’s more recent releases, including his Haunted Horror series, Jack Cole’s Deadly Horror, Strange World of Your Dreams, The Art of Archie: The Covers, and the Ditko Monsters books. The Two Guys also ask Craig about his time with Disney, Nickelodeon, and especially his close association with Jim Henson and his experiences working on the Muppets. One of the most moving parts of the interview, in fact, is when Craig discusses his last meeting with Henson, the day of the legend’s untimely death. But the overall tone of the conversation is upbeat. It’s a free-flowing conversation filled with humor, horror, and erotic references. And it’s one of the most enjoyable interviews the guys have ever conducted! Mon, 18 Nov 2013 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Humor, Horror, and Horniness On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Gene and Derek talk with editor, archivist, comics historian, and pop cultural Renaissance Man, Craig Yoe. The interview gets off to a wild start with a discussion of  Secret Identity: The Fetish Art of Superman’s Co-Creator Joe Shuster, a book that Craig says helped to put him on the publishing map. From there they highlight several of Yoe’s more recent releases, including his Haunted Horror series, Jack Cole’s Deadly Horror, Strange World of Your Dreams, The Art of Archie: The Covers, and the Ditko Monsters books. The Two Guys also ask Craig about his time with Disney, Nickelodeon, and especially his close association with Jim Henson and his experiences working on the Muppets. One of the most moving parts of the interview, in fact, is when Craig discusses his last meeting with Henson, the day of the legend’s untimely death. But the overall tone of the conversation is upbeat. It’s a free-flowing conversation filled with humor, horror, and erotic references. And it’s one of the most enjoyable interviews the guys have ever conducted! On this episode of The Comics Alternative Interviews, Gene and Derek talk with editor, archivist, comics historian, and pop cultural Renaissance Man, Craig Yoe. The interview gets off to a wild start with a discussion of  Secret Identity: The Fetish Art of Superman’s Co-Creator Joe Shuster, a book that Craig says helped to put him on the publishing map. From there they highlight several of Yoe’s more recent releases, including his Haunted Horror series, Jack Cole’s Deadly Horror, Strange World of Your Dreams, The Art of Archie: The Covers, and the Ditko Monsters books. The Two Guys also ask Craig about his time with Disney, Nickelodeon, and especially his close association with Jim Henson and his experiences working on the Muppets. One of the most moving parts of the interview, in fact, is when Craig discusses his last meeting with Henson, the day of the legend’s untimely death. But the overall tone of the conversation is upbeat. It’s a free-flowing conversation filled with humor, horror, and erotic references. And it’s one of the most enjoyable interviews the guys have ever conducted!

]]> 6301 no Episode 61 - Publisher Spotlight on Vertigo http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-61.mp3 This week Andy and Derek return with another special Publisher Spotlight episode, this one devoted to Vertigo. Although the Two Guys with PhDs demonstrate superhuman abilities when tackling a variety of titles, it’s obvious that they cannot cover all of Vertigo’s history and output. Instead, they have decided to focus on the most recent wave of comics coming out from the imprint. This includes the many titles that have been released since the summer and in the wake of Karen Berger’s departure. Derek and Andy discuss the significance of these latest releases, what they suggest about the possible direction of the imprint, and how these comics fit within the larger history of Vertigo. The recent series that the Two Guys discuss include The Wake, 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, FBP: Federal Bureau of Physics, the new Astro City series, Trillium, Tom Strong and the Planet of Peril, Sandman: Overture, Hinterkind, Coffin Hill, and the new anthology The Witching Hour. They also focus on the narrative trajectories of some of Vertigo’s more established series, including the current run of The Unwritten, Fables, and Fairest. Here, they look at The Unwritten/Fables crossover and recent original graphic novels and collections such as The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Ship That Sank Twice, Fables: Werewolves of the Heartland, and the upcoming Fairest in All the Land. As this episode aptly shows, Vertigo is still one of the most exciting places to find cutting-edge comics! Wed, 13 Nov 2013 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A “Sorta Vertigo-y” Show This week Andy and Derek return with another special Publisher Spotlight episode, this one devoted to Vertigo. Although the Two Guys with PhDs demonstrate superhuman abilities when tackling a variety of titles, it’s obvious that they cannot cover all of Vertigo’s history and output. Instead, they have decided to focus on the most recent wave of comics coming out from the imprint. This includes the many titles that have been released since the summer and in the wake of Karen Berger’s departure. Derek and Andy discuss the significance of these latest releases, what they suggest about the possible direction of the imprint, and how these comics fit within the larger history of Vertigo. The recent series that the Two Guys discuss include The Wake, 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, FBP: Federal Bureau of Physics, the new Astro City series, Trillium, Tom Strong and the Planet of Peril, Sandman: Overture, Hinterkind, Coffin Hill, and the new anthology The Witching Hour. They also focus on the narrative trajectories of some of Vertigo’s more established series, including the current run of The Unwritten, Fables, and Fairest. Here, they look at The Unwritten/Fables crossover and recent original graphic novels and collections such as The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Ship That Sank Twice, Fables: Werewolves of the Heartland, and the upcoming Fairest in All the Land. As this episode aptly shows, Vertigo is still one of the most exciting places to find cutting-edge comics! This week Andy and Derek return with another special Publisher Spotlight episode, this one devoted to Vertigo. Although the Two Guys with PhDs demonstrate superhuman abilities when tackling a variety of titles, it’s obvious that they cannot cover all of Vertigo’s history and output. Instead, they have decided to focus on the most recent wave of comics coming out from the imprint. This includes the many titles that have been released since the summer and in the wake of Karen Berger’s departure. Derek and Andy discuss the significance of these latest releases, what they suggest about the possible direction of the imprint, and how these comics fit within the larger history of Vertigo. The recent series that the Two Guys discuss include The Wake, 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, FBP: Federal Bureau of Physics, the new Astro City series, Trillium, Tom Strong and the Planet of Peril, Sandman: Overture, Hinterkind, Coffin Hill, and the new anthology The Witching Hour. They also focus on the narrative trajectories of some of Vertigo’s more established series, including the current run of The Unwritten, Fables, and Fairest. Here, they look at The Unwritten/Fables crossover and recent original graphic novels and collections such as The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Ship That Sank Twice, Fables: Werewolves of the Heartland, and the upcoming Fairest in All the Land. As this episode aptly shows, Vertigo is still one of the most exciting places to find cutting-edge comics!

]]> 6949 no Interviews - Jeremy Whitley http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews2-Whitley.mp3 On this Comics Alternative interview show, Gene and Derek talk with Jeremy Whitley, the writer of the Eisner Award-nominated Princeless series and the outgoing Director of Marketing at Action Lab Comics. Jeremy talks with the Two Guys about the genesis of Princeless, his upcoming work on My Little Pony for IDW, the place of all-age comics, and the representation of women — especially in its impact on girls and younger women — in comics today. He also shares his experiences in marketing for Action Lab over the years, as well as his hopes for his new role as the publisher’s Education Outreach Director. All in all, Gene and Derek have a great time talking with Jeremy about his work as a creator and his efforts behind the scenes at Action Lab. Tue, 12 Nov 2013 19:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Sticking It to the Man On this Comics Alternative interview show, Gene and Derek talk with Jeremy Whitley, the writer of the Eisner Award-nominated Princeless series and the outgoing Director of Marketing at Action Lab Comics. Jeremy talks with the Two Guys about the genesis of Princeless, his upcoming work on My Little Pony for IDW, the place of all-age comics, and the representation of women — especially in its impact on girls and younger women — in comics today. He also shares his experiences in marketing for Action Lab over the years, as well as his hopes for his new role as the publisher’s Education Outreach Director. All in all, Gene and Derek have a great time talking with Jeremy about his work as a creator and his efforts behind the scenes at Action Lab. On this Comics Alternative interview show, Gene and Derek talk with Jeremy Whitley, the writer of the Eisner Award-nominated Princeless series and the outgoing Director of Marketing at Action Lab Comics. Jeremy talks with the Two Guys about the genesis of Princeless, his upcoming work on My Little Pony for IDW, the place of all-age comics, and the representation of women — especially in its impact on girls and younger women — in comics today. He also shares his experiences in marketing for Action Lab over the years, as well as his hopes for his new role as the publisher’s Education Outreach Director. All in all, Gene and Derek have a great time talking with Jeremy about his work as a creator and his efforts behind the scenes at Action Lab.

]]> 5543 no Episode 60 - The November Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-60.mp3 It’s the first of the month, so it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. Plus, Andy’s back on the podcast, so there’s a lot for him and Derek to catch up on. After Andy re-acclimates to the world of podcastdom, the guys plunge into the November solicits. They discuss upcoming titles such as Bad Blood #1, Serenity: Firefly Class 03-K64 – Leaves on the Wind #1, and Gasoline Alley, Vol. 1: The Complete Sundays 1920-1922 (Dark Horse); Showcase Presents: Men of War and The Unwritten, Vol. 2: Apocalypse #1 (DC/Vertigo); Basil Wolverton’s Weird Worlds: Artist’s Edition and Rio: The Complete Collection (IDW Publishing); Deadly Class #1 and Minimum Wage #1 (Image); the rerelease of the original Miracleman (Marvel); recent Archie comics; Revelations #1, Curse #1, and Hacktivist #1 (BOOM! Studios/Archaia); The Original Johnson Omnibus (Comicmix); The Twilight Zone #1 and Legenderry #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); Ant Colony (Drawn and Quarterly); Prison Pit, Book 5 and Nothing Eve (Fantagraphics); curious manga adaptations – Ulysses into comics? — from One Peace Books; Snow Piercer, Vol. 1: The Escape (Titan Comics); and USNA: United States of North America (USNA Publishing). Along the way, Derek and Andy see how many of their listening constituencies they can alienate…although Andy already has a head start, given recent reviews dissing him as closed-minded on The Comic Alternative‘s iTunes page. To that reviewer we say, “Bite us!” Wed, 06 Nov 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Welcome Back Andy It’s the first of the month, so it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. Plus, Andy’s back on the podcast, so there’s a lot for him and Derek to catch up on. After Andy re-acclimates to the world of podcastdom, the guys plunge into the November solicits. They discuss upcoming titles such as Bad Blood #1, Serenity: Firefly Class 03-K64 – Leaves on the Wind #1, and Gasoline Alley, Vol. 1: The Complete Sundays 1920-1922 (Dark Horse); Showcase Presents: Men of War and The Unwritten, Vol. 2: Apocalypse #1 (DC/Vertigo); Basil Wolverton’s Weird Worlds: Artist’s Edition and Rio: The Complete Collection (IDW Publishing); Deadly Class #1 and Minimum Wage #1 (Image); the rerelease of the original Miracleman (Marvel); recent Archie comics; Revelations #1, Curse #1, and Hacktivist #1 (BOOM! Studios/Archaia); The Original Johnson Omnibus (Comicmix); The Twilight Zone #1 and Legenderry #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); Ant Colony (Drawn and Quarterly); Prison Pit, Book 5 and Nothing Eve (Fantagraphics); curious manga adaptations – Ulysses into comics? — from One Peace Books; Snow Piercer, Vol. 1: The Escape (Titan Comics); and USNA: United States of North America (USNA Publishing). Along the way, Derek and Andy see how many of their listening constituencies they can alienate…although Andy already has a head start, given recent reviews dissing him as closed-minded on The Comic Alternative‘s iTunes page. To that reviewer we say, “Bite us!” It’s the first of the month, so it’s time for the Two Guys with PhDs to look through the latest Previews catalog. Plus, Andy’s back on the podcast, so there’s a lot for him and Derek to catch up on. After Andy re-acclimates to the world of podcastdom, the guys plunge into the November solicits. They discuss upcoming titles such as Bad Blood #1, Serenity: Firefly Class 03-K64 – Leaves on the Wind #1, and Gasoline Alley, Vol. 1: The Complete Sundays 1920-1922 (Dark Horse); Showcase Presents: Men of War and The Unwritten, Vol. 2: Apocalypse #1 (DC/Vertigo); Basil Wolverton’s Weird Worlds: Artist’s Edition and Rio: The Complete Collection (IDW Publishing); Deadly Class #1 and Minimum Wage #1 (Image); the rerelease of the original Miracleman (Marvel); recent Archie comics; Revelations #1, Curse #1, and Hacktivist #1 (BOOM! Studios/Archaia); The Original Johnson Omnibus (Comicmix); The Twilight Zone #1 and Legenderry #1 (Dynamite Entertainment); Ant Colony (Drawn and Quarterly); Prison Pit, Book 5 and Nothing Eve (Fantagraphics); curious manga adaptations – Ulysses into comics? — from One Peace Books; Snow Piercer, Vol. 1: The Escape (Titan Comics); and USNA: United States of North America (USNA Publishing). Along the way, Derek and Andy see how many of their listening constituencies they can alienate…although Andy already has a head start, given recent reviews dissing him as closed-minded on The Comic Alternative‘s iTunes page. To that reviewer we say, “Bite us!”

]]> 6286 no Interviews - Kim Deitch http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComAlt_Interviews1-Deitch.mp3 For the first in this new feature, the Two Guys with PhDs are proud to have as a guest comics legend Kim Deitch. His new book, The Amazing, Enlightening and Absolutely True Adventures of Katherine Whaley, was just published by Fantagraphics, and Tof and Derek begin their conversation by asking him about the genesis of the project. Kim reveals the history of Katherine Whaley, its links to “The Sunshine Girl” (in Deitch’s Pictorama) and The Search for Smilin’ Ed (both by Fantagraphics), and his fascination with early twentieth-century film and popular music. Along the way, they discuss some of Kim’s characters that recur in Katherine Whaley, some that do not (most notably, Waldo), the evolution of Kim’s art style, his fascination with storytelling, his strategies for keeping the creative juices flowing, and the inside scoop on Kim’s next book project. All in all, it’s a wonderful way to begin the new Comics Alternative Interviews feature! Mon, 04 Nov 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Amazing, Enlightening and Absolutely True Art of Kim Deitch For the first in this new feature, the Two Guys with PhDs are proud to have as a guest comics legend Kim Deitch. His new book, The Amazing, Enlightening and Absolutely True Adventures of Katherine Whaley, was just published by Fantagraphics, and Tof and Derek begin their conversation by asking him about the genesis of the project. Kim reveals the history of Katherine Whaley, its links to “The Sunshine Girl” (in Deitch’s Pictorama) and The Search for Smilin’ Ed (both by Fantagraphics), and his fascination with early twentieth-century film and popular music. Along the way, they discuss some of Kim’s characters that recur in Katherine Whaley, some that do not (most notably, Waldo), the evolution of Kim’s art style, his fascination with storytelling, his strategies for keeping the creative juices flowing, and the inside scoop on Kim’s next book project. All in all, it’s a wonderful way to begin the new Comics Alternative Interviews feature! For the first in this new feature, the Two Guys with PhDs are proud to have as a guest comics legend Kim Deitch. His new book, The Amazing, Enlightening and Absolutely True Adventures of Katherine Whaley, was just published by Fantagraphics, and Tof and Derek begin their conversation by asking him about the genesis of the project. Kim reveals the history of Katherine Whaley, its links to “The Sunshine Girl” (in Deitch’s Pictorama) and The Search for Smilin’ Ed (both by Fantagraphics), and his fascination with early twentieth-century film and popular music. Along the way, they discuss some of Kim’s characters that recur in Katherine Whaley, some that do not (most notably, Waldo), the evolution of Kim’s art style, his fascination with storytelling, his strategies for keeping the creative juices flowing, and the inside scoop on Kim’s next book project. All in all, it’s a wonderful way to begin the new Comics Alternative Interviews feature!

]]> 4194 no Episode 59.1 - Halloween Special 2013 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-59-1.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics return with their 2013 Halloween Special! In this episode, Gene and Derek discuss a variety of this year’s Halloween special issues, very recent horror titles, and series annuals themed to the season. (We know, we know…Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics, Vol. 23 came out in 2012, but we weren’t able to discuss this book last year, so we wanted to be sure we did so this time around.) They cover a lot of ground, highlighting as many new Halloween titles as they can, recommending most with a severed thumbs up. The titles they discuss include: Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics, Vol. 23, by various artists (Eureka Productions); Afterlife with Archie, by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla (Archie Comics); Adventure Time 2013 Spooktacular, by various artists (Kaboom!); Herobear and the Kid 2013 Annual, by Mike Kunkel (Kaboom!); Hellraiser 2013 Annual, by Clive Barker, Brandon Siefert, Ben Meares, Jesús Hervás, and Janusz Ordon (Boom! Studios); Grimm Fairy Tales 2013 Halloween Special, various artists (Zenescope Entertainment); Vampirella Halloween Special 2013, by Shannon Eric Denton and Dietrich Smith (Dynamite); The Mocking Dead #1-2, by Fred Van Lente and Max Dunbar (Dynamite); The Walking Dead: 10th Anniversary Edition, by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Dave Stewart (Image); The Walking Dead #115, by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Ablard (Image); Zombie Tramp, Vol. 2 #1, by Dan Mendoza (Action Lab); Vamplets, Vol. 1, by Gayle Middleton, Dave Dwonch, Amanda Coronado, and Bill Blankenship (Action Lab); Zombillenium, by Arthur De Pins (NBM); Boo! Halloween Stories, by various artists (MonkeyBrain). So put on your favorite homemade costume, slap on a little ghoulish greasepaint, grab your pumpkin head bucket, walk like a zombie, and enjoy the sweet, nougaty treats (no tricks here) of The Comics Alternative 2013 Halloween Special! Thu, 31 Oct 2013 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Trick or Treating Has Never Been So Graphic The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics return with their 2013 Halloween Special! In this episode, Gene and Derek discuss a variety of this year’s Halloween special issues, very recent horror titles, and series annuals themed to the season. (We know, we know…Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics, Vol. 23 came out in 2012, but we weren’t able to discuss this book last year, so we wanted to be sure we did so this time around.) They cover a lot of ground, highlighting as many new Halloween titles as they can, recommending most with a severed thumbs up. The titles they discuss include: Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics, Vol. 23, by various artists (Eureka Productions); Afterlife with Archie, by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla (Archie Comics); Adventure Time 2013 Spooktacular, by various artists (Kaboom!); Herobear and the Kid 2013 Annual, by Mike Kunkel (Kaboom!); Hellraiser 2013 Annual, by Clive Barker, Brandon Siefert, Ben Meares, Jesús Hervás, and Janusz Ordon (Boom! Studios); Grimm Fairy Tales 2013 Halloween Special, various artists (Zenescope Entertainment); Vampirella Halloween Special 2013, by Shannon Eric Denton and Dietrich Smith (Dynamite); The Mocking Dead #1-2, by Fred Van Lente and Max Dunbar (Dynamite); The Walking Dead: 10th Anniversary Edition, by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Dave Stewart (Image); The Walking Dead #115, by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Ablard (Image); Zombie Tramp, Vol. 2 #1, by Dan Mendoza (Action Lab); Vamplets, Vol. 1, by Gayle Middleton, Dave Dwonch, Amanda Coronado, and Bill Blankenship (Action Lab); Zombillenium, by Arthur De Pins (NBM); Boo! Halloween Stories, by various artists (MonkeyBrain). So put on your favorite homemade costume, slap on a little ghoulish greasepaint, grab your pumpkin head bucket, walk like a zombie, and enjoy the sweet, nougaty treats (no tricks here) of The Comics Alternative 2013 Halloween Special! The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics return with their 2013 Halloween Special! In this episode, Gene and Derek discuss a variety of this year’s Halloween special issues, very recent horror titles, and series annuals themed to the season. (We know, we know…Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics, Vol. 23 came out in 2012, but we weren’t able to discuss this book last year, so we wanted to be sure we did so this time around.) They cover a lot of ground, highlighting as many new Halloween titles as they can, recommending most with a severed thumbs up. The titles they discuss include: Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics, Vol. 23, by various artists (Eureka Productions); Afterlife with Archie, by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla (Archie Comics); Adventure Time 2013 Spooktacular, by various artists (Kaboom!); Herobear and the Kid 2013 Annual, by Mike Kunkel (Kaboom!); Hellraiser 2013 Annual, by Clive Barker, Brandon Siefert, Ben Meares, Jesús Hervás, and Janusz Ordon (Boom! Studios); Grimm Fairy Tales 2013 Halloween Special, various artists (Zenescope Entertainment); Vampirella Halloween Special 2013, by Shannon Eric Denton and Dietrich Smith (Dynamite); The Mocking Dead #1-2, by Fred Van Lente and Max Dunbar (Dynamite); The Walking Dead: 10th Anniversary Edition, by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Dave Stewart (Image); The Walking Dead #115, by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Ablard (Image); Zombie Tramp, Vol. 2 #1, by Dan Mendoza (Action Lab); Vamplets, Vol. 1, by Gayle Middleton, Dave Dwonch, Amanda Coronado, and Bill Blankenship (Action Lab); Zombillenium, by Arthur De Pins (NBM); Boo! Halloween Stories, by various artists (MonkeyBrain). So put on your favorite homemade costume, slap on a little ghoulish greasepaint, grab your pumpkin head bucket, walk like a zombie, and enjoy the sweet, nougaty treats (no tricks here) of The Comics Alternative 2013 Halloween Special!

]]> 5678 no Episode 59 - A Review of Palookaville #21 and The Fox #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-59.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs review Seth’s Palookaville #21 (Drawn and Quarterly) and The Fox #1, by Dean Haspiel and Mark Waid (Red Circle Comics). They begin by providing a primer on Palookaville and the 16-year run (so far) of the serialized Clyde Fans. They spend a good amount of time talking about the latest installment of Clyde Fans, part four, and then move on to the two overtly autobiographical sections of this issue of Palookaville: “Rubber Stamp Diary” and “Nothing Lasts, Part One.” Both Gene and Derek are fascinated with the very concept of the former, using specially designed rubber stamps to keep an illustrated diary. And they are bowled over by “Nothing Lasts,” a section from one of Seth’s sketchbooks and a better story than most people’s finished comics. Next they turn their critical eyes to Haspiel and Waid’s The Fox, a new superhero title for Archie Comic’s Red Circle imprint. (Yes, we know that The Comics Alternative doesn’t focus on superhero comics, but this first issue is a notable and justifiable exception, especially since Dean Haspiel is a friend of Gene’s.) They comment on the history of The Fox, beginning back in the 1940s, and then discuss how Haspiel and Waid revive the character for current times. What the Two Guys discover inadvertently are the thematic similarities between The Fox – Haspiel’s critique of social and digital media — and Seth’s emphasis on the past and older printed materials. All in all, it is a fun review show for Derek and Gene, and they both wholeheartedly recommend Palookaville #21 and The Fox #1 to everyone. Wed, 30 Oct 2013 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Not the Comics to Read to Ukelele Music in the Background” This week the Two Guys with PhDs review Seth’s Palookaville #21 (Drawn and Quarterly) and The Fox #1, by Dean Haspiel and Mark Waid (Red Circle Comics). They begin by providing a primer on Palookaville and the 16-year run (so far) of the serialized Clyde Fans. They spend a good amount of time talking about the latest installment of Clyde Fans, part four, and then move on to the two overtly autobiographical sections of this issue of Palookaville: “Rubber Stamp Diary” and “Nothing Lasts, Part One.” Both Gene and Derek are fascinated with the very concept of the former, using specially designed rubber stamps to keep an illustrated diary. And they are bowled over by “Nothing Lasts,” a section from one of Seth’s sketchbooks and a better story than most people’s finished comics. Next they turn their critical eyes to Haspiel and Waid’s The Fox, a new superhero title for Archie Comic’s Red Circle imprint. (Yes, we know that The Comics Alternative doesn’t focus on superhero comics, but this first issue is a notable and justifiable exception, especially since Dean Haspiel is a friend of Gene’s.) They comment on the history of The Fox, beginning back in the 1940s, and then discuss how Haspiel and Waid revive the character for current times. What the Two Guys discover inadvertently are the thematic similarities between The Fox – Haspiel’s critique of social and digital media — and Seth’s emphasis on the past and older printed materials. All in all, it is a fun review show for Derek and Gene, and they both wholeheartedly recommend Palookaville #21 and The Fox #1 to everyone. This week the Two Guys with PhDs review Seth’s Palookaville #21 (Drawn and Quarterly) and The Fox #1, by Dean Haspiel and Mark Waid (Red Circle Comics). They begin by providing a primer on Palookaville and the 16-year run (so far) of the serialized Clyde Fans. They spend a good amount of time talking about the latest installment of Clyde Fans, part four, and then move on to the two overtly autobiographical sections of this issue of Palookaville: “Rubber Stamp Diary” and “Nothing Lasts, Part One.” Both Gene and Derek are fascinated with the very concept of the former, using specially designed rubber stamps to keep an illustrated diary. And they are bowled over by “Nothing Lasts,” a section from one of Seth’s sketchbooks and a better story than most people’s finished comics. Next they turn their critical eyes to Haspiel and Waid’s The Fox, a new superhero title for Archie Comic’s Red Circle imprint. (Yes, we know that The Comics Alternative doesn’t focus on superhero comics, but this first issue is a notable and justifiable exception, especially since Dean Haspiel is a friend of Gene’s.) They comment on the history of The Fox, beginning back in the 1940s, and then discuss how Haspiel and Waid revive the character for current times. What the Two Guys discover inadvertently are the thematic similarities between The Fox – Haspiel’s critique of social and digital media — and Seth’s emphasis on the past and older printed materials. All in all, it is a fun review show for Derek and Gene, and they both wholeheartedly recommend Palookaville #21 and The Fox #1 to everyone.

]]> 5771 no Episode 58.1 - Celebrating Halloween ComicFest at Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-58-1.mp3 To celebrate this year’s Halloween ComicFest, the Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) paid another visit to Collected Comics in Plano, your one-stop-shop for everything thrilling and chilling! Gene and Derek were joined by Collected’s co-owner Brent Irwin, comics artist and friend of the show, Andy Hirsch, and Andy’s “Bob’s Burgers” companion, Natalie Khan. It was truly a ghoulish experience, made more so by the mayhem surrounding everyone during the podcast recording. Amongst crowds of customers, face-painted patrons, kids with loud toys, and Yu-Gi-Oh card players breaking tables, the Two Guys and their guests talked about the free Halloween ComicFest comics, recent horror-related titles, Andy’s work on Adventure Time and Regular Show comics, the experience of watching Saturday morning cartoons in the ’70s and ’80s, comics and library community outreach efforts, contentious definitions of the “graphic novel,” Dell and Gold Key TV show-based comics, Gene’s challenge to keep up with new weekly comics, and Derek’s disturbing revelation that his favorite Halloween costume experience was when he was dressed as a baby, complete with diaper, pacifier, and nippled bottle. Despite the latter obstacle, everyone had a fun time, and they managed to end the episode before the Yu-Gi-Oh hoard descended upon them. Experience the fun on this latest supplemental show! Mon, 28 Oct 2013 15:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fear and Rabid Yu-Gi-Oh Players To celebrate this year’s Halloween ComicFest, the Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) paid another visit to Collected Comics in Plano, your one-stop-shop for everything thrilling and chilling! Gene and Derek were joined by Collected’s co-owner Brent Irwin, comics artist and friend of the show, Andy Hirsch, and Andy’s “Bob’s Burgers” companion, Natalie Khan. It was truly a ghoulish experience, made more so by the mayhem surrounding everyone during the podcast recording. Amongst crowds of customers, face-painted patrons, kids with loud toys, and Yu-Gi-Oh card players breaking tables, the Two Guys and their guests talked about the free Halloween ComicFest comics, recent horror-related titles, Andy’s work on Adventure Time and Regular Show comics, the experience of watching Saturday morning cartoons in the ’70s and ’80s, comics and library community outreach efforts, contentious definitions of the “graphic novel,” Dell and Gold Key TV show-based comics, Gene’s challenge to keep up with new weekly comics, and Derek’s disturbing revelation that his favorite Halloween costume experience was when he was dressed as a baby, complete with diaper, pacifier, and nippled bottle. Despite the latter obstacle, everyone had a fun time, and they managed to end the episode before the Yu-Gi-Oh hoard descended upon them. Experience the fun on this latest supplemental show! To celebrate this year’s Halloween ComicFest, the Two Guys with PhDs (talking about comics) paid another visit to Collected Comics in Plano, your one-stop-shop for everything thrilling and chilling! Gene and Derek were joined by Collected’s co-owner Brent Irwin, comics artist and friend of the show, Andy Hirsch, and Andy’s “Bob’s Burgers” companion, Natalie Khan. It was truly a ghoulish experience, made more so by the mayhem surrounding everyone during the podcast recording. Amongst crowds of customers, face-painted patrons, kids with loud toys, and Yu-Gi-Oh card players breaking tables, the Two Guys and their guests talked about the free Halloween ComicFest comics, recent horror-related titles, Andy’s work on Adventure Time and Regular Show comics, the experience of watching Saturday morning cartoons in the ’70s and ’80s, comics and library community outreach efforts, contentious definitions of the “graphic novel,” Dell and Gold Key TV show-based comics, Gene’s challenge to keep up with new weekly comics, and Derek’s disturbing revelation that his favorite Halloween costume experience was when he was dressed as a baby, complete with diaper, pacifier, and nippled bottle. Despite the latter obstacle, everyone had a fun time, and they managed to end the episode before the Yu-Gi-Oh hoard descended upon them. Experience the fun on this latest supplemental show!

]]> 5103 no Episode 58 - A Review of Rebetiko, Pachyderme, and The Outliers #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-58.mp3 This week Gene and Derek review two new books (both translations from the French) and the first issue of a new series. They begin with David Prudhomme’s Rebetiko (SelfMadeHero), a narrative centered around a day in the lives of five rebetes, musicians who were a part of the Greek folk music subculture in the 1920s and 1930s. The characters are outcasts, living on the fringe because of their love of rebetiko — often called “Greek blues” — and treated as immoral influences. Prudhomme uses the music and the lifestyle as a structuring device for his narrative. The Two Guys then turn to Pachyderme (SelfMadeHero), Frederik Peeter’s surreal, dreamlike story of a woman who is searching — searching for her husband, whom she believes to have been in an accident; searching for her young female piano student, who elicits in her some sort of hidden passion; and searching for her own sense of self as a fully realized woman. The result is a free-flowing, associative story that seems to turn back on itself and resists closure. If you appreciate Charles Burns’s dislocated narratives, you’ll really enjoy Pachyderme. Finally, Derek and Gene discuss the first issue of Erik T. Johnson’s series, The Outliers (Panelvision Productions/Alternative Comics). Beginning almost two years ago as a Kickstarter campaign, this is Johnson’s adventure story of a speech-impaired boy who is able to see creatures living on the periphery of human consciousness, or outliers, that others cannot perceive. The guys are impressed by all three of the titles they discuss and heartily recommend that listeners run out to get these comics. This week is truly an alternative comics feast! Wed, 23 Oct 2013 15:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Alternative to the Max This week Gene and Derek review two new books (both translations from the French) and the first issue of a new series. They begin with David Prudhomme’s Rebetiko (SelfMadeHero), a narrative centered around a day in the lives of five rebetes, musicians who were a part of the Greek folk music subculture in the 1920s and 1930s. The characters are outcasts, living on the fringe because of their love of rebetiko — often called “Greek blues” — and treated as immoral influences. Prudhomme uses the music and the lifestyle as a structuring device for his narrative. The Two Guys then turn to Pachyderme (SelfMadeHero), Frederik Peeter’s surreal, dreamlike story of a woman who is searching — searching for her husband, whom she believes to have been in an accident; searching for her young female piano student, who elicits in her some sort of hidden passion; and searching for her own sense of self as a fully realized woman. The result is a free-flowing, associative story that seems to turn back on itself and resists closure. If you appreciate Charles Burns’s dislocated narratives, you’ll really enjoy Pachyderme. Finally, Derek and Gene discuss the first issue of Erik T. Johnson’s series, The Outliers (Panelvision Productions/Alternative Comics). Beginning almost two years ago as a Kickstarter campaign, this is Johnson’s adventure story of a speech-impaired boy who is able to see creatures living on the periphery of human consciousness, or outliers, that others cannot perceive. The guys are impressed by all three of the titles they discuss and heartily recommend that listeners run out to get these comics. This week is truly an alternative comics feast! This week Gene and Derek review two new books (both translations from the French) and the first issue of a new series. They begin with David Prudhomme’s Rebetiko (SelfMadeHero), a narrative centered around a day in the lives of five rebetes, musicians who were a part of the Greek folk music subculture in the 1920s and 1930s. The characters are outcasts, living on the fringe because of their love of rebetiko — often called “Greek blues” — and treated as immoral influences. Prudhomme uses the music and the lifestyle as a structuring device for his narrative. The Two Guys then turn to Pachyderme (SelfMadeHero), Frederik Peeter’s surreal, dreamlike story of a woman who is searching — searching for her husband, whom she believes to have been in an accident; searching for her young female piano student, who elicits in her some sort of hidden passion; and searching for her own sense of self as a fully realized woman. The result is a free-flowing, associative story that seems to turn back on itself and resists closure. If you appreciate Charles Burns’s dislocated narratives, you’ll really enjoy Pachyderme. Finally, Derek and Gene discuss the first issue of Erik T. Johnson’s series, The Outliers (Panelvision Productions/Alternative Comics). Beginning almost two years ago as a Kickstarter campaign, this is Johnson’s adventure story of a speech-impaired boy who is able to see creatures living on the periphery of human consciousness, or outliers, that others cannot perceive. The guys are impressed by all three of the titles they discuss and heartily recommend that listeners run out to get these comics. This week is truly an alternative comics feast!

]]> 5863 no Episode 57.1 - Discussing Horror Comics at Collected Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-57-1.mp3 It’s time once again for our monthly on-location show at Collected Comics in Plano, TX. This month the discussion theme is horror comics, a perfect topic for the Halloween season. On this show, Derek is joined once again by Shea Hennum as well as the shop’s assistant manager, Freddy Rick, the resident expert on all things horror. (Another store employee, Sabrina, even makes a brief vocal appearance on the podcast, sharing her uncanny love of vikings and cheese.) Among the many horror titles they discuss are The Walking Dead, Hellboy, Rachel Rising, EC’s New Trend line from the 1950s (including Tales From the Crypt, The Haunt of Fear and The Vault of Horror), Revival, Weird War Tales, Richard Corben’s Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, Swamp Thing, Hack/Slash, Locke and Key, almost anything by Steve Niles, and the pre-Code comics that Craig Yoe collects in his many volumes. So get your freaky fright on for this ghoulish installment of The Comics Alternative podcast! Fri, 18 Oct 2013 20:40:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Scary Stuff! It’s time once again for our monthly on-location show at Collected Comics in Plano, TX. This month the discussion theme is horror comics, a perfect topic for the Halloween season. On this show, Derek is joined once again by Shea Hennum as well as the shop’s assistant manager, Freddy Rick, the resident expert on all things horror. (Another store employee, Sabrina, even makes a brief vocal appearance on the podcast, sharing her uncanny love of vikings and cheese.) Among the many horror titles they discuss are The Walking Dead, Hellboy, Rachel Rising, EC’s New Trend line from the 1950s (including Tales From the Crypt, The Haunt of Fear and The Vault of Horror), Revival, Weird War Tales, Richard Corben’s Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, Swamp Thing, Hack/Slash, Locke and Key, almost anything by Steve Niles, and the pre-Code comics that Craig Yoe collects in his many volumes. So get your freaky fright on for this ghoulish installment of The Comics Alternative podcast! It’s time once again for our monthly on-location show at Collected Comics in Plano, TX. This month the discussion theme is horror comics, a perfect topic for the Halloween season. On this show, Derek is joined once again by Shea Hennum as well as the shop’s assistant manager, Freddy Rick, the resident expert on all things horror. (Another store employee, Sabrina, even makes a brief vocal appearance on the podcast, sharing her uncanny love of vikings and cheese.) Among the many horror titles they discuss are The Walking Dead, Hellboy, Rachel Rising, EC’s New Trend line from the 1950s (including Tales From the Crypt, The Haunt of Fear and The Vault of Horror), Revival, Weird War Tales, Richard Corben’s Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, Swamp Thing, Hack/Slash, Locke and Key, almost anything by Steve Niles, and the pre-Code comics that Craig Yoe collects in his many volumes. So get your freaky fright on for this ghoulish installment of The Comics Alternative podcast!

]]> 5462 no Episode 57 - A Review of Battling Boy, Shaolin Cowboy #1, and Rocket Girl #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-57.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Gene review Paul Pope’s Battling Boy (First Second), Geof Darrow’s Shaolin Cowboy #1 (Dark Horse), and Brandon Montclare and Amy Reeder’s Rocket Girl #1 (Image). The Two Guys with PhDs begin with Battling Boy, placing it within the larger context of Paul Pope’s body of work — seeing similar themes, stylistic flair, characterization, and tone found in comics such as 100%, Heavy Liquid, and THB – and also reading it in light of other First Second publications. Both are fascinated by what Pope is doing in this all-age (?) superhero (?) sci-fi narrative, and they are eagerly anticipating the next installment of the story, The Rise of Aurora West. Gene brings keen insights not only to the metaficational aspects of Battling Boy, but also Pope’s use of lettering and font choices. The Two Guys are not in the same kind of agreement with Shaolin Cowboy. Derek feels that it’s one of the most visually intriguing, and funniest, comic books of the year, while Gene wants more story. (And Derek recommends that Gene read the first Shaolin Cowboy series from Burlyman Entertainment…although even he has his problems with the way that first series unfolded.) But they do agree on Montclare and Reeder’s Rocket Girl, feeling that the series starts off with a blast — sorry for the pun — and promises interesting things in the issues to come, especially in terms of time travel twists. Wed, 16 Oct 2013 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Cowboy Up, Grasshopper This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Gene review Paul Pope’s Battling Boy (First Second), Geof Darrow’s Shaolin Cowboy #1 (Dark Horse), and Brandon Montclare and Amy Reeder’s Rocket Girl #1 (Image). The Two Guys with PhDs begin with Battling Boy, placing it within the larger context of Paul Pope’s body of work — seeing similar themes, stylistic flair, characterization, and tone found in comics such as 100%, Heavy Liquid, and THB – and also reading it in light of other First Second publications. Both are fascinated by what Pope is doing in this all-age (?) superhero (?) sci-fi narrative, and they are eagerly anticipating the next installment of the story, The Rise of Aurora West. Gene brings keen insights not only to the metaficational aspects of Battling Boy, but also Pope’s use of lettering and font choices. The Two Guys are not in the same kind of agreement with Shaolin Cowboy. Derek feels that it’s one of the most visually intriguing, and funniest, comic books of the year, while Gene wants more story. (And Derek recommends that Gene read the first Shaolin Cowboy series from Burlyman Entertainment…although even he has his problems with the way that first series unfolded.) But they do agree on Montclare and Reeder’s Rocket Girl, feeling that the series starts off with a blast — sorry for the pun — and promises interesting things in the issues to come, especially in terms of time travel twists. This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek and Gene review Paul Pope’s Battling Boy (First Second), Geof Darrow’s Shaolin Cowboy #1 (Dark Horse), and Brandon Montclare and Amy Reeder’s Rocket Girl #1 (Image). The Two Guys with PhDs begin with Battling Boy, placing it within the larger context of Paul Pope’s body of work — seeing similar themes, stylistic flair, characterization, and tone found in comics such as 100%, Heavy Liquid, and THB – and also reading it in light of other First Second publications. Both are fascinated by what Pope is doing in this all-age (?) superhero (?) sci-fi narrative, and they are eagerly anticipating the next installment of the story, The Rise of Aurora West. Gene brings keen insights not only to the metaficational aspects of Battling Boy, but also Pope’s use of lettering and font choices. The Two Guys are not in the same kind of agreement with Shaolin Cowboy. Derek feels that it’s one of the most visually intriguing, and funniest, comic books of the year, while Gene wants more story. (And Derek recommends that Gene read the first Shaolin Cowboy series from Burlyman Entertainment…although even he has his problems with the way that first series unfolded.) But they do agree on Montclare and Reeder’s Rocket Girl, feeling that the series starts off with a blast — sorry for the pun — and promises interesting things in the issues to come, especially in terms of time travel twists.

]]> 5754 no Episode 56 - The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-56.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Gene Kannenberg, Jr. joins Derek to talk about the many great finds in the October Previews. They begin by looking at some of the offerings coming up soon for Halloween ComicFest 2013, then they get into the nitty gritty of this month’s catalog.  Among the many titles they highlight are 47 Ronin and Breath of Bones (Dark Horse), Dead Boy Detectives #1 and The Invisibles Deluxe Edition, Book One (DC/Vertigo), Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground and The Illegitimates #1 (IDW), The Saviors #1 and The Complete Multiple Warheads, Vol. 1 (Image), Where Bold Stars Go to Die (Slave Labor Graphics), The Wonderful World of Lisa Simpson #1 (Bongo Comics), The Midas Flesh #1 (BOOM! Studios), Susceptible and Trove Jansson’s Moomin books (Drawn and Quarterly), The Blighted Eye and Sucker Bait and Other Stories (Fantagraphics), The Fifth Essence Part Two: Planet Difool (Humanoids), The Best of Wonder Wart-Hog (Knockabout Comics), Diesel Sweeties: Bacon Is a Vegetable, Coffee Is a Vitamin (Oni Press), The First Kingdom Vol. 3: Vengeance (Titan Comics), and World War 3 Illustrated #45 (Top Shelf).  This episode is jam-packed with sweet, nougaty comics goodness, and Derek and Gene discuss more good titles than humans should be allowed to read. Wed, 09 Oct 2013 14:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal But Wait…There’s More! This week on The Comics Alternative, Gene Kannenberg, Jr. joins Derek to talk about the many great finds in the October Previews. They begin by looking at some of the offerings coming up soon for Halloween ComicFest 2013, then they get into the nitty gritty of this month’s catalog.  Among the many titles they highlight are 47 Ronin and Breath of Bones (Dark Horse), Dead Boy Detectives #1 and The Invisibles Deluxe Edition, Book One (DC/Vertigo), Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground and The Illegitimates #1 (IDW), The Saviors #1 and The Complete Multiple Warheads, Vol. 1 (Image), Where Bold Stars Go to Die (Slave Labor Graphics), The Wonderful World of Lisa Simpson #1 (Bongo Comics), The Midas Flesh #1 (BOOM! Studios), Susceptible and Trove Jansson’s Moomin books (Drawn and Quarterly), The Blighted Eye and Sucker Bait and Other Stories (Fantagraphics), The Fifth Essence Part Two: Planet Difool (Humanoids), The Best of Wonder Wart-Hog (Knockabout Comics), Diesel Sweeties: Bacon Is a Vegetable, Coffee Is a Vitamin (Oni Press), The First Kingdom Vol. 3: Vengeance (Titan Comics), and World War 3 Illustrated #45 (Top Shelf).  This episode is jam-packed with sweet, nougaty comics goodness, and Derek and Gene discuss more good titles than humans should be allowed to read. This week on The Comics Alternative, Gene Kannenberg, Jr. joins Derek to talk about the many great finds in the October Previews. They begin by looking at some of the offerings coming up soon for Halloween ComicFest 2013, then they get into the nitty gritty of this month’s catalog.  Among the many titles they highlight are 47 Ronin and Breath of Bones (Dark Horse), Dead Boy Detectives #1 and The Invisibles Deluxe Edition, Book One (DC/Vertigo), Richard Stark’s Parker: Slayground and The Illegitimates #1 (IDW), The Saviors #1 and The Complete Multiple Warheads, Vol. 1 (Image), Where Bold Stars Go to Die (Slave Labor Graphics), The Wonderful World of Lisa Simpson #1 (Bongo Comics), The Midas Flesh #1 (BOOM! Studios), Susceptible and Trove Jansson’s Moomin books (Drawn and Quarterly), The Blighted Eye and Sucker Bait and Other Stories (Fantagraphics), The Fifth Essence Part Two: Planet Difool (Humanoids), The Best of Wonder Wart-Hog (Knockabout Comics), Diesel Sweeties: Bacon Is a Vegetable, Coffee Is a Vitamin (Oni Press), The First Kingdom Vol. 3: Vengeance (Titan Comics), and World War 3 Illustrated #45 (Top Shelf).  This episode is jam-packed with sweet, nougaty comics goodness, and Derek and Gene discuss more good titles than humans should be allowed to read.

]]> 7259 no Episode 55.1 - Talking with Creators at the October Dallas Comic Con: Fan Days http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-55-1.mp3 Another Dallas Comic Con was held this past weekend, October 4-6, at the Irving Convention Center. Derek was there looking through comics, taking in the sights, and talking with a variety of creators and publishers. He recorded his conversations, and you’ll find the fruits of his labor in this new episode. This con was filled wtih celebrities, cosplayers, and comics sellers, but Derek headed straight for the people who are actually the heart and soul of the event: the writers, artists, and publishers of comics. While on the floor Derek was able to get brief interviews with Joe Eisma, Cary Nord, Robert Wilson IV, Josh Howard, Andy Hirsch, Richard Dominguez, Michael Golden, Steve Niles, and comics legend Neal Adams. He also took the time to engage with folks at several independent publishers such as Terror Comics (where you can find Life Is Brutal and Thought Nog), Overground Comics (home of Absent Captain and Graduate), Space Gun Studios (publishers of The Old Ones and Dash Bradley), Comic Book Divas (with Miss Misery’s A Haunting Desire and Penny Dreadful’s Cauldron of Terror), and the local distributors of Vamplets. There’s lots of fun talk and interesting insights, so listen along as Derek meanders the convention floor. Mon, 07 Oct 2013 23:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Fun Times at the Dallas Comic Con Another Dallas Comic Con was held this past weekend, October 4-6, at the Irving Convention Center. Derek was there looking through comics, taking in the sights, and talking with a variety of creators and publishers. He recorded his conversations, and you’ll find the fruits of his labor in this new episode. This con was filled wtih celebrities, cosplayers, and comics sellers, but Derek headed straight for the people who are actually the heart and soul of the event: the writers, artists, and publishers of comics. While on the floor Derek was able to get brief interviews with Joe Eisma, Cary Nord, Robert Wilson IV, Josh Howard, Andy Hirsch, Richard Dominguez, Michael Golden, Steve Niles, and comics legend Neal Adams. He also took the time to engage with folks at several independent publishers such as Terror Comics (where you can find Life Is Brutal and Thought Nog), Overground Comics (home of Absent Captain and Graduate), Space Gun Studios (publishers of The Old Ones and Dash Bradley), Comic Book Divas (with Miss Misery’s A Haunting Desire and Penny Dreadful’s Cauldron of Terror), and the local distributors of Vamplets. There’s lots of fun talk and interesting insights, so listen along as Derek meanders the convention floor. Another Dallas Comic Con was held this past weekend, October 4-6, at the Irving Convention Center. Derek was there looking through comics, taking in the sights, and talking with a variety of creators and publishers. He recorded his conversations, and you’ll find the fruits of his labor in this new episode. This con was filled wtih celebrities, cosplayers, and comics sellers, but Derek headed straight for the people who are actually the heart and soul of the event: the writers, artists, and publishers of comics. While on the floor Derek was able to get brief interviews with Joe Eisma, Cary Nord, Robert Wilson IV, Josh Howard, Andy Hirsch, Richard Dominguez, Michael Golden, Steve Niles, and comics legend Neal Adams. He also took the time to engage with folks at several independent publishers such as Terror Comics (where you can find Life Is Brutal and Thought Nog), Overground Comics (home of Absent Captain and Graduate), Space Gun Studios (publishers of The Old Ones and Dash Bradley), Comic Book Divas (with Miss Misery’s A Haunting Desire and Penny Dreadful’s Cauldron of Terror), and the local distributors of Vamplets. There’s lots of fun talk and interesting insights, so listen along as Derek meanders the convention floor.

]]> 5675 no Episode 55 - A Review of David B.’s Black Paths and Incidents in the Night, Book 1, and Jonathan Hickman and Mike Costa’s God Is Dead #1 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-55.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, Tof once again joins Derek to talk about comics, and this time they’re reviewing new books by David B. – Black Paths (SelfMadeHero) and Incidents in the Night, Book 1 (Uncivilized Books) — and issue #1 of God Is Dead by Jonathan Hickman, Mike Costa, and Di Amorim (Avatar). The Two Guys with PhDs begin by discussing David B.’s surreal and idiosyncratic style, and how that style manifests itself in his two most recent books. First they look at Black Paths and how David B. uses history,  the Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio and the ill-fated Free State of Fiume, as a scaffolding for his story. Tof and Derek also highlight the various narrative connections between that book and Incidents in the Night, pointing out the creator’s penchant for interlinking his narratives though iconic markers. They talk in-depth about David B.’s surrealistic style, his “flat” or two-dimensional art, and the dream-like world where most of his stories take place. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first installment of Jonathan Hickman and Mike Costa’s new six-issue miniseries, God Is Dead. Although Tof is a little uncertain about Di Amorim’s art (e.g., the depiction of women), Derek is fascinated by the way that Hickman and Costa set up their storyworld, giving us several events that promise to converge in the coming issues. There’s a lot to listen to…so start listening already! Wed, 02 Oct 2013 23:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal We're the Ones Who Knock This week on The Comics Alternative, Tof once again joins Derek to talk about comics, and this time they’re reviewing new books by David B. – Black Paths (SelfMadeHero) and Incidents in the Night, Book 1 (Uncivilized Books) — and issue #1 of God Is Dead by Jonathan Hickman, Mike Costa, and Di Amorim (Avatar). The Two Guys with PhDs begin by discussing David B.’s surreal and idiosyncratic style, and how that style manifests itself in his two most recent books. First they look at Black Paths and how David B. uses history,  the Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio and the ill-fated Free State of Fiume, as a scaffolding for his story. Tof and Derek also highlight the various narrative connections between that book and Incidents in the Night, pointing out the creator’s penchant for interlinking his narratives though iconic markers. They talk in-depth about David B.’s surrealistic style, his “flat” or two-dimensional art, and the dream-like world where most of his stories take place. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first installment of Jonathan Hickman and Mike Costa’s new six-issue miniseries, God Is Dead. Although Tof is a little uncertain about Di Amorim’s art (e.g., the depiction of women), Derek is fascinated by the way that Hickman and Costa set up their storyworld, giving us several events that promise to converge in the coming issues. There’s a lot to listen to…so start listening already! This week on The Comics Alternative, Tof once again joins Derek to talk about comics, and this time they’re reviewing new books by David B. – Black Paths (SelfMadeHero) and Incidents in the Night, Book 1 (Uncivilized Books) — and issue #1 of God Is Dead by Jonathan Hickman, Mike Costa, and Di Amorim (Avatar). The Two Guys with PhDs begin by discussing David B.’s surreal and idiosyncratic style, and how that style manifests itself in his two most recent books. First they look at Black Paths and how David B. uses history,  the Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio and the ill-fated Free State of Fiume, as a scaffolding for his story. Tof and Derek also highlight the various narrative connections between that book and Incidents in the Night, pointing out the creator’s penchant for interlinking his narratives though iconic markers. They talk in-depth about David B.’s surrealistic style, his “flat” or two-dimensional art, and the dream-like world where most of his stories take place. Next, the Two Guys turn to the first installment of Jonathan Hickman and Mike Costa’s new six-issue miniseries, God Is Dead. Although Tof is a little uncertain about Di Amorim’s art (e.g., the depiction of women), Derek is fascinated by the way that Hickman and Costa set up their storyworld, giving us several events that promise to converge in the coming issues. There’s a lot to listen to…so start listening already!

]]> 7157 no Episode 54 - A Creator Spotlight on Dash Shaw http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-54.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs feature another “Creator Spotlight” episode, this one focused on the works of Dash Shaw. Tof Eklund joins Derek in discussing and defining a truly unique presence in comics, an artist whose work has been evolving over the past decade. They begin by looking at Shaw’s most recent works, the comic book 3 Stories and the brand new graphic novel, New School (both from Fantagraphics). Tof and Derek note the distinctive visual style of these books — with their heavy linework and their prominent reliance on color, patterns, and background images — and how they differ greatly from most of Shaw’s previous comics. Next they turn their attention to some of Shaw’s earlier works published by Fantagraphics, such as BodyWorld (Tof’s favorite Dash Shaw book), Bottomless Belly Button (Derek’s favorite), The Unclothed Man in the 35th Century AD (which includes previously published short comics, including the pieces included the quarterly anthology, Mome), as well as his lesser known works, such as The Mother’s Mouth (Alternative Comics) and the recent minicomic, New Jobs (Uncivilized Books). If you are unfamiliar with the comics of Dash Shaw, then this is your opportunity to jump right on in and discover a creator whose work stands out from the pack. Thu, 26 Sep 2013 02:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “You’ve Got Art in My Comics!”….”Well, You’ve Got Comics in My Art!” This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs feature another “Creator Spotlight” episode, this one focused on the works of Dash Shaw. Tof Eklund joins Derek in discussing and defining a truly unique presence in comics, an artist whose work has been evolving over the past decade. They begin by looking at Shaw’s most recent works, the comic book 3 Stories and the brand new graphic novel, New School (both from Fantagraphics). Tof and Derek note the distinctive visual style of these books — with their heavy linework and their prominent reliance on color, patterns, and background images — and how they differ greatly from most of Shaw’s previous comics. Next they turn their attention to some of Shaw’s earlier works published by Fantagraphics, such as BodyWorld (Tof’s favorite Dash Shaw book), Bottomless Belly Button (Derek’s favorite), The Unclothed Man in the 35th Century AD (which includes previously published short comics, including the pieces included the quarterly anthology, Mome), as well as his lesser known works, such as The Mother’s Mouth (Alternative Comics) and the recent minicomic, New Jobs (Uncivilized Books). If you are unfamiliar with the comics of Dash Shaw, then this is your opportunity to jump right on in and discover a creator whose work stands out from the pack. This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs feature another “Creator Spotlight” episode, this one focused on the works of Dash Shaw. Tof Eklund joins Derek in discussing and defining a truly unique presence in comics, an artist whose work has been evolving over the past decade. They begin by looking at Shaw’s most recent works, the comic book 3 Stories and the brand new graphic novel, New School (both from Fantagraphics). Tof and Derek note the distinctive visual style of these books — with their heavy linework and their prominent reliance on color, patterns, and background images — and how they differ greatly from most of Shaw’s previous comics. Next they turn their attention to some of Shaw’s earlier works published by Fantagraphics, such as BodyWorld (Tof’s favorite Dash Shaw book), Bottomless Belly Button (Derek’s favorite), The Unclothed Man in the 35th Century AD (which includes previously published short comics, including the pieces included the quarterly anthology, Mome), as well as his lesser known works, such as The Mother’s Mouth (Alternative Comics) and the recent minicomic, New Jobs (Uncivilized Books). If you are unfamiliar with the comics of Dash Shaw, then this is your opportunity to jump right on in and discover a creator whose work stands out from the pack.

]]> 7072 no Episode 53.1 - Talking Science Fiction Comics at Collected Comics, Part 2 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-53-1.mp3 It’s time again for the Two Guys with PhDs to head back to Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, for their monthly on-location show. However, this month it is not Lone Star Comics they are visiting, but Collected Comics. That’s right, Collected bought out the Plano store, so although the Two Guys are at the same physical location, they are now doing their show from a different store. This time around, Derek is joined by one of the co-owners of Collected, Brent Erwin, along with Rick Cromack (the store’s manager), and Comics Alternative mainstay, Shea Hennum (Andy couldn’t be on this episode). This is the second of the two science fiction shows that they had planned: one to open the summer (the June on-location show) and another to wrap it up. On this episode, everyone begins by discussing some of their favorite sci-fi comics, along with some of the favorites that the listeners contributed. They also find time to talk about the various science fiction blockbuster films of the summer, various sci-fi televisions programs, and toys based on sci-fi comics. Everyone goes through an array of diverse science fiction titles, and Brent and Rick especially bring in some of classics from the 1960s and 1970s. So come get your science on with this month’s on-location show at Collected! Fri, 20 Sep 2013 22:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Imagine Greater It’s time again for the Two Guys with PhDs to head back to Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, for their monthly on-location show. However, this month it is not Lone Star Comics they are visiting, but Collected Comics. That’s right, Collected bought out the Plano store, so although the Two Guys are at the same physical location, they are now doing their show from a different store. This time around, Derek is joined by one of the co-owners of Collected, Brent Erwin, along with Rick Cromack (the store’s manager), and Comics Alternative mainstay, Shea Hennum (Andy couldn’t be on this episode). This is the second of the two science fiction shows that they had planned: one to open the summer (the June on-location show) and another to wrap it up. On this episode, everyone begins by discussing some of their favorite sci-fi comics, along with some of the favorites that the listeners contributed. They also find time to talk about the various science fiction blockbuster films of the summer, various sci-fi televisions programs, and toys based on sci-fi comics. Everyone goes through an array of diverse science fiction titles, and Brent and Rick especially bring in some of classics from the 1960s and 1970s. So come get your science on with this month’s on-location show at Collected! It’s time again for the Two Guys with PhDs to head back to Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, for their monthly on-location show. However, this month it is not Lone Star Comics they are visiting, but Collected Comics. That’s right, Collected bought out the Plano store, so although the Two Guys are at the same physical location, they are now doing their show from a different store. This time around, Derek is joined by one of the co-owners of Collected, Brent Erwin, along with Rick Cromack (the store’s manager), and Comics Alternative mainstay, Shea Hennum (Andy couldn’t be on this episode). This is the second of the two science fiction shows that they had planned: one to open the summer (the June on-location show) and another to wrap it up. On this episode, everyone begins by discussing some of their favorite sci-fi comics, along with some of the favorites that the listeners contributed. They also find time to talk about the various science fiction blockbuster films of the summer, various sci-fi televisions programs, and toys based on sci-fi comics. Everyone goes through an array of diverse science fiction titles, and Brent and Rick especially bring in some of classics from the 1960s and 1970s. So come get your science on with this month’s on-location show at Collected!

]]> 6131 no Episode 53 - A Review of Gene Luen Yang’s Boxers and Saints, and Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve #13 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-53.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek is joined by Lan Dong, and the two of them discuss Gene Luen Yang’s new two-volume set, Boxers and Saints (First Second), as well as Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve #13 (Drawn and Quarterly). The Two (Guys?) with PhDs begin by briefly discussing the book that Yang is most known for, American Born Chinese, and then they segue into the new works and how Boxers and Saints differ in terms of theme, scope, and narrative approach.  They point out the historical nature of the books and the ways in which Yang fictionalizes the Boxer Uprising. Along the way they discuss the work’s two-text structure, the differences between the books’ themes and perspectives, the gendered and religious differences between the two volumes, and Yang’s aesthetic approach to both. Then Lan and Derek move on to the latest issue of Adrian Tomine’s foundational series, Optic Nerve. They do so by way of issue #12, which came out two years ago, drawing parallels between that issue and the latest one. They discuss issue #13′s one-page autobiographical piece, the offbeat story “Owls” — in the process, drawing some links to both Shortcomings and Summer Blonde — and the beautiful and evocative short, “Translated, from the Japanese.” All in all, Lan and Derek cover a lot of ground, and they wholeheartedly recommend these new releases. Wed, 18 Sep 2013 22:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Yang and Tomine are in the house! This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek is joined by Lan Dong, and the two of them discuss Gene Luen Yang’s new two-volume set, Boxers and Saints (First Second), as well as Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve #13 (Drawn and Quarterly). The Two (Guys?) with PhDs begin by briefly discussing the book that Yang is most known for, American Born Chinese, and then they segue into the new works and how Boxers and Saints differ in terms of theme, scope, and narrative approach.  They point out the historical nature of the books and the ways in which Yang fictionalizes the Boxer Uprising. Along the way they discuss the work’s two-text structure, the differences between the books’ themes and perspectives, the gendered and religious differences between the two volumes, and Yang’s aesthetic approach to both. Then Lan and Derek move on to the latest issue of Adrian Tomine’s foundational series, Optic Nerve. They do so by way of issue #12, which came out two years ago, drawing parallels between that issue and the latest one. They discuss issue #13′s one-page autobiographical piece, the offbeat story “Owls” — in the process, drawing some links to both Shortcomings and Summer Blonde — and the beautiful and evocative short, “Translated, from the Japanese.” All in all, Lan and Derek cover a lot of ground, and they wholeheartedly recommend these new releases. This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Derek is joined by Lan Dong, and the two of them discuss Gene Luen Yang’s new two-volume set, Boxers and Saints (First Second), as well as Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve #13 (Drawn and Quarterly). The Two (Guys?) with PhDs begin by briefly discussing the book that Yang is most known for, American Born Chinese, and then they segue into the new works and how Boxers and Saints differ in terms of theme, scope, and narrative approach.  They point out the historical nature of the books and the ways in which Yang fictionalizes the Boxer Uprising. Along the way they discuss the work’s two-text structure, the differences between the books’ themes and perspectives, the gendered and religious differences between the two volumes, and Yang’s aesthetic approach to both. Then Lan and Derek move on to the latest issue of Adrian Tomine’s foundational series, Optic Nerve. They do so by way of issue #12, which came out two years ago, drawing parallels between that issue and the latest one. They discuss issue #13′s one-page autobiographical piece, the offbeat story “Owls” — in the process, drawing some links to both Shortcomings and Summer Blonde — and the beautiful and evocative short, “Translated, from the Japanese.” All in all, Lan and Derek cover a lot of ground, and they wholeheartedly recommend these new releases.

]]> 6195 no Episode 52 - The September Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-52.mp3 It’s that time again to flip through the pages of the Previews catalog, and this week Derek is joined by Bob Bretall of ComicSpectrum to discuss the offerings in the September Previews (Andy couldn’t make it for this episode). Among the many titles they highlight are Clown Fatale, S.H.O.O.T. First, EC Archives: The Vault of Horrors Vol. 3 (Dark Horse), The Planetary Omnibus, Creature Commandos, The Sandman: Overture Special Edition, DMZ Deluxe Edition Book One, FBP: Federal Beureau of Physics (DC/Vertigo), The Maxx: Maxximized, Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time, Triple Helix (IDW), Black Science, Umbral, Alex + Ada, Strangeways, Five Ghosts (Image), Princeless Encore Edition, Pirate Eye: Iron Bars, Wretched Tales (Action Lab), Lunita (Amigo Comics), The Joyners in 3D (Arachaia), Afterlife with Archie (Archie Comics), Soulfire (Aspen Comics), Absolution: Rubicon (Avatar Press), Shahrazad (Big Dog Ink), Beautiful Darkness (Drawn and Quarterly), Maria M. Book One, Pretty in Ink: North American Women Cartoonists 1896-2013 (Fantagraphics), Tune: Still Life (First Second), Jewish in America Vol. 1-2 (NBM), and Renée (Top Shelf). There’s a lot of comics talk packed into this episode. Bob and Derek cover a lot of ground, and you’re sure to hear about something that will interest you…and something you may not have known about before. Check out the podcast! Check out the comics! Wed, 11 Sep 2013 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “We need more colons.” It’s that time again to flip through the pages of the Previews catalog, and this week Derek is joined by Bob Bretall of ComicSpectrum to discuss the offerings in the September Previews (Andy couldn’t make it for this episode). Among the many titles they highlight are Clown Fatale, S.H.O.O.T. First, EC Archives: The Vault of Horrors Vol. 3 (Dark Horse), The Planetary Omnibus, Creature Commandos, The Sandman: Overture Special Edition, DMZ Deluxe Edition Book One, FBP: Federal Beureau of Physics (DC/Vertigo), The Maxx: Maxximized, Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time, Triple Helix (IDW), Black Science, Umbral, Alex + Ada, Strangeways, Five Ghosts (Image), Princeless Encore Edition, Pirate Eye: Iron Bars, Wretched Tales (Action Lab), Lunita (Amigo Comics), The Joyners in 3D (Arachaia), Afterlife with Archie (Archie Comics), Soulfire (Aspen Comics), Absolution: Rubicon (Avatar Press), Shahrazad (Big Dog Ink), Beautiful Darkness (Drawn and Quarterly), Maria M. Book One, Pretty in Ink: North American Women Cartoonists 1896-2013 (Fantagraphics), Tune: Still Life (First Second), Jewish in America Vol. 1-2 (NBM), and Renée (Top Shelf). There’s a lot of comics talk packed into this episode. Bob and Derek cover a lot of ground, and you’re sure to hear about something that will interest you…and something you may not have known about before. Check out the podcast! Check out the comics! It’s that time again to flip through the pages of the Previews catalog, and this week Derek is joined by Bob Bretall of ComicSpectrum to discuss the offerings in the September Previews (Andy couldn’t make it for this episode). Among the many titles they highlight are Clown Fatale, S.H.O.O.T. First, EC Archives: The Vault of Horrors Vol. 3 (Dark Horse), The Planetary Omnibus, Creature Commandos, The Sandman: Overture Special Edition, DMZ Deluxe Edition Book One, FBP: Federal Beureau of Physics (DC/Vertigo), The Maxx: Maxximized, Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time, Triple Helix (IDW), Black Science, Umbral, Alex + Ada, Strangeways, Five Ghosts (Image), Princeless Encore Edition, Pirate Eye: Iron Bars, Wretched Tales (Action Lab), Lunita (Amigo Comics), The Joyners in 3D (Arachaia), Afterlife with Archie (Archie Comics), Soulfire (Aspen Comics), Absolution: Rubicon (Avatar Press), Shahrazad (Big Dog Ink), Beautiful Darkness (Drawn and Quarterly), Maria M. Book One, Pretty in Ink: North American Women Cartoonists 1896-2013 (Fantagraphics), Tune: Still Life (First Second), Jewish in America Vol. 1-2 (NBM), and Renée (Top Shelf). There’s a lot of comics talk packed into this episode. Bob and Derek cover a lot of ground, and you’re sure to hear about something that will interest you…and something you may not have known about before. Check out the podcast! Check out the comics!

]]> 6012 no Episode 51 - Discussing Rocketeer Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-51.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs discuss Rocketeer comics. In fact, it’s an all-Rocketeer episode, from the Dave Stevens material to the most recent manifestation with The Spirit. So come put on your jodhpurs, strap on your jet pack, and get ready to take off as Andy and Derek try their best to cover the full range of Rocketeer titles – a formidable task, indeed – beginning at the beginning with Dave Steven’s groundbreaking Rocketeer stories, the mulit-creator collections Rocketeer Adventures vol. 1 and Rocketeer Adventures vol. 2, Mark Waid and Chris Samnee’s The Rocketeer: Cargo of Doom, Roger Langridge and J. Bone’s The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, and Mark Waid and Paul Smith’s most recent Rocketeer story, The Rocketeer and The Spirit: Pulp Friction (all published by IDW). This episode it chocked full of that nougaty goodness we have come to know as Cliff Secord and his posse. Plus, lots of Betty talk. What’s not to like? Wed, 04 Sep 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Betty! This week on The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs discuss Rocketeer comics. In fact, it’s an all-Rocketeer episode, from the Dave Stevens material to the most recent manifestation with The Spirit. So come put on your jodhpurs, strap on your jet pack, and get ready to take off as Andy and Derek try their best to cover the full range of Rocketeer titles – a formidable task, indeed – beginning at the beginning with Dave Steven’s groundbreaking Rocketeer stories, the mulit-creator collections Rocketeer Adventures vol. 1 and Rocketeer Adventures vol. 2, Mark Waid and Chris Samnee’s The Rocketeer: Cargo of Doom, Roger Langridge and J. Bone’s The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, and Mark Waid and Paul Smith’s most recent Rocketeer story, The Rocketeer and The Spirit: Pulp Friction (all published by IDW). This episode it chocked full of that nougaty goodness we have come to know as Cliff Secord and his posse. Plus, lots of Betty talk. What’s not to like? This week on The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs discuss Rocketeer comics. In fact, it’s an all-Rocketeer episode, from the Dave Stevens material to the most recent manifestation with The Spirit. So come put on your jodhpurs, strap on your jet pack, and get ready to take off as Andy and Derek try their best to cover the full range of Rocketeer titles – a formidable task, indeed – beginning at the beginning with Dave Steven’s groundbreaking Rocketeer stories, the mulit-creator collections Rocketeer Adventures vol. 1 and Rocketeer Adventures vol. 2, Mark Waid and Chris Samnee’s The Rocketeer: Cargo of Doom, Roger Langridge and J. Bone’s The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, and Mark Waid and Paul Smith’s most recent Rocketeer story, The Rocketeer and The Spirit: Pulp Friction (all published by IDW). This episode it chocked full of that nougaty goodness we have come to know as Cliff Secord and his posse. Plus, lots of Betty talk. What’s not to like?

]]> 4917 no Episode 50 - Talking All-Age Comics at Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-50.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, and this month they are talking about all-age comics.  Joining them is Lone Star employee Shea Hennum and special guest Andy Hirsch, artist of such comics as Garfield, Peanuts, Regular Show, The Royal Historian of Oz, and an upcoming issue of Adventure Time.  The conversation is engaging, and the camaraderie is more dynamic than humanly possible. Come listen to the fun as everyone discusses the philosophy of all-age comics, the definitions of “all-age” and “young reader” comics, the joys of Adventure Time, the centrality of Archie and Richie Rich, and the reality of having to bleep Andy K’s language on an episode devoted to all-age comics.  Plus, Andy K says “I’m playing with it right now” during the show.  We’re dearly sorry about this, listeners. Parents: email your complaints to Andy K directly. Tue, 20 Aug 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy Hirsch Is in the House! The Two Guys with PhDs are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, and this month they are talking about all-age comics.  Joining them is Lone Star employee Shea Hennum and special guest Andy Hirsch, artist of such comics as Garfield, Peanuts, Regular Show, The Royal Historian of Oz, and an upcoming issue of Adventure Time.  The conversation is engaging, and the camaraderie is more dynamic than humanly possible. Come listen to the fun as everyone discusses the philosophy of all-age comics, the definitions of “all-age” and “young reader” comics, the joys of Adventure Time, the centrality of Archie and Richie Rich, and the reality of having to bleep Andy K’s language on an episode devoted to all-age comics.  Plus, Andy K says “I’m playing with it right now” during the show.  We’re dearly sorry about this, listeners. Parents: email your complaints to Andy K directly. The Two Guys with PhDs are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, and this month they are talking about all-age comics.  Joining them is Lone Star employee Shea Hennum and special guest Andy Hirsch, artist of such comics as Garfield, Peanuts, Regular Show, The Royal Historian of Oz, and an upcoming issue of Adventure Time.  The conversation is engaging, and the camaraderie is more dynamic than humanly possible. Come listen to the fun as everyone discusses the philosophy of all-age comics, the definitions of “all-age” and “young reader” comics, the joys of Adventure Time, the centrality of Archie and Richie Rich, and the reality of having to bleep Andy K’s language on an episode devoted to all-age comics.  Plus, Andy K says “I’m playing with it right now” during the show.  We’re dearly sorry about this, listeners. Parents: email your complaints to Andy K directly.

]]> 4504 no Episode 49 - The August Previews Catalog and Our One-Year Anniversary! http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-49.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek celebrate their one-year anniversary!  The podcast began one year ago this month — August 1, 2012, was the inaugural episode — and the Two Guys with PhDs mark the event by doing what they do best: bringing you insightful commentary on upcoming titles and comics news. Most of this episode is devoted to the August Previews catalog, but Andy and Derek also discuss the significance of the podcast’s mission, their plans for future shows, the August Comics Alternative giveaway, and the various correspondences they have recently received. Regarding the latter, they respond to an email from Jackie Estrada, an administrator for the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, concerning last week’s roundtable discussion on SDCC and the Eisners. The Two Guys address the administrator’s concerns, apologize for certain oversights, and place last week’s comments within a larger context (including their previous conversations on the 2013 Eisner Award nominees). There is a lot packed into this week’s episode — over two-hours worth! — and the guys hope that you join in their anniversary celebration by lifting a pint, turning on your podcast-listening device, and enjoying the warm nougaty goodness that is The Comics Alternative. Wed, 07 Aug 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal It's Our Birthday! This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek celebrate their one-year anniversary!  The podcast began one year ago this month — August 1, 2012, was the inaugural episode — and the Two Guys with PhDs mark the event by doing what they do best: bringing you insightful commentary on upcoming titles and comics news. Most of this episode is devoted to the August Previews catalog, but Andy and Derek also discuss the significance of the podcast’s mission, their plans for future shows, the August Comics Alternative giveaway, and the various correspondences they have recently received. Regarding the latter, they respond to an email from Jackie Estrada, an administrator for the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, concerning last week’s roundtable discussion on SDCC and the Eisners. The Two Guys address the administrator’s concerns, apologize for certain oversights, and place last week’s comments within a larger context (including their previous conversations on the 2013 Eisner Award nominees). There is a lot packed into this week’s episode — over two-hours worth! — and the guys hope that you join in their anniversary celebration by lifting a pint, turning on your podcast-listening device, and enjoying the warm nougaty goodness that is The Comics Alternative. This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek celebrate their one-year anniversary!  The podcast began one year ago this month — August 1, 2012, was the inaugural episode — and the Two Guys with PhDs mark the event by doing what they do best: bringing you insightful commentary on upcoming titles and comics news. Most of this episode is devoted to the August Previews catalog, but Andy and Derek also discuss the significance of the podcast’s mission, their plans for future shows, the August Comics Alternative giveaway, and the various correspondences they have recently received. Regarding the latter, they respond to an email from Jackie Estrada, an administrator for the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, concerning last week’s roundtable discussion on SDCC and the Eisners. The Two Guys address the administrator’s concerns, apologize for certain oversights, and place last week’s comments within a larger context (including their previous conversations on the 2013 Eisner Award nominees). There is a lot packed into this week’s episode — over two-hours worth! — and the guys hope that you join in their anniversary celebration by lifting a pint, turning on your podcast-listening device, and enjoying the warm nougaty goodness that is The Comics Alternative.

]]> 8640 no Episode 48 - A Roundtable Discussion on SDCC and the Eisner Awards http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-48.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, John Mayo (of the Comic Book Page) and Chris Marshall (Collected Comics Library) return for another roundtable discussion with the Two Guys with PhDs.  This time the topic is the San Diego Comics Con and the Eisner Award ceremony that took place there.  They begin by asking John how his experience was in San Diego — he was the only one of the four to actually attend — and what for him were the highlights of the event. They talk quite a bit about the many happenings at the con, both comic-related and otherwise, and then discuss the coverage of the con in the media. Next, they turn their attention to the 2013 Eisner Award winners, trying to make sense of what the results may reveal (or not reveal) about the current state of comics as well as the attitudes and biases of the selection committee. The four podcasting guys also pick apart the various award categories, noting their histories and how many of them have changed over the years. For example, they point out the weaknesses with the “Best Digital Comic” category (too broad, too ill-defined), suggest ways of reconceptualizing the award for comics-related journalism, and even problematize the idea of the “Best Graphic Album-New.” (Is Building Stories really an “album”? Doesn’t it actually contain a lot of reprinted material?)  It may be a bit of Monday morning quarterbacking, but they don’t care. Chris, John, Andy, and Derek have a great time discussing and sharing ideas, and you can experience the fun by listening to the podcast. Wed, 31 Jul 2013 17:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Another Podcast Crossover Event…Industry Approved! This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, John Mayo (of the Comic Book Page) and Chris Marshall (Collected Comics Library) return for another roundtable discussion with the Two Guys with PhDs.  This time the topic is the San Diego Comics Con and the Eisner Award ceremony that took place there.  They begin by asking John how his experience was in San Diego — he was the only one of the four to actually attend — and what for him were the highlights of the event. They talk quite a bit about the many happenings at the con, both comic-related and otherwise, and then discuss the coverage of the con in the media. Next, they turn their attention to the 2013 Eisner Award winners, trying to make sense of what the results may reveal (or not reveal) about the current state of comics as well as the attitudes and biases of the selection committee. The four podcasting guys also pick apart the various award categories, noting their histories and how many of them have changed over the years. For example, they point out the weaknesses with the “Best Digital Comic” category (too broad, too ill-defined), suggest ways of reconceptualizing the award for comics-related journalism, and even problematize the idea of the “Best Graphic Album-New.” (Is Building Stories really an “album”? Doesn’t it actually contain a lot of reprinted material?)  It may be a bit of Monday morning quarterbacking, but they don’t care. Chris, John, Andy, and Derek have a great time discussing and sharing ideas, and you can experience the fun by listening to the podcast. This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, John Mayo (of the Comic Book Page) and Chris Marshall (Collected Comics Library) return for another roundtable discussion with the Two Guys with PhDs.  This time the topic is the San Diego Comics Con and the Eisner Award ceremony that took place there.  They begin by asking John how his experience was in San Diego — he was the only one of the four to actually attend — and what for him were the highlights of the event. They talk quite a bit about the many happenings at the con, both comic-related and otherwise, and then discuss the coverage of the con in the media. Next, they turn their attention to the 2013 Eisner Award winners, trying to make sense of what the results may reveal (or not reveal) about the current state of comics as well as the attitudes and biases of the selection committee. The four podcasting guys also pick apart the various award categories, noting their histories and how many of them have changed over the years. For example, they point out the weaknesses with the “Best Digital Comic” category (too broad, too ill-defined), suggest ways of reconceptualizing the award for comics-related journalism, and even problematize the idea of the “Best Graphic Album-New.” (Is Building Stories really an “album”? Doesn’t it actually contain a lot of reprinted material?)  It may be a bit of Monday morning quarterbacking, but they don’t care. Chris, John, Andy, and Derek have a great time discussing and sharing ideas, and you can experience the fun by listening to the podcast.

]]> 7644 no Episode 47 - Publisher Spotlight on Valiant Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-47.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are doing something they’ve never done before: devoting an entire episode to a specific publisher. And this first time out they’ve decided to focus on Valiant Comics and all of the various (and relaunched) titles that they began putting out last year. It is a formidable task, but Andy and Derek are up to the challenge! They begin this Publisher Spotlight by discussing one of their favorites of the group, Archer and Armstrong, briefly look at the latest title, Quantum and Woody, and then move on to Harbinger, Bloodshot, and the Harbinger Wars crossover event, the new Valiant’s first. They also weigh in on X-O Manowar and Shadowman, as well as speculate on some of the new titles and events on the horizon, such as Eternal Warrior, Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps, and the new Sect Civil War crossover. Not only do Andy and Derek look in-depth into each individual series, but they also discuss the broader picture, trying to find some of the common features and themes that compose the new Valiant universe. They also debate whether or not the relaunched titles are actually superhero comics, or if perhaps they may be better described as mashups of different (and competing) genres. There’s a lot that goes on in this episode, jam-packed with comics goodness, and the Two Guys with PhDs feel that they’ve thrown down the critical gauntlet for all future discussions of Valiant. Wed, 24 Jul 2013 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Valiant Attempt at Capturing Valiant Comics This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are doing something they’ve never done before: devoting an entire episode to a specific publisher. And this first time out they’ve decided to focus on Valiant Comics and all of the various (and relaunched) titles that they began putting out last year. It is a formidable task, but Andy and Derek are up to the challenge! They begin this Publisher Spotlight by discussing one of their favorites of the group, Archer and Armstrong, briefly look at the latest title, Quantum and Woody, and then move on to Harbinger, Bloodshot, and the Harbinger Wars crossover event, the new Valiant’s first. They also weigh in on X-O Manowar and Shadowman, as well as speculate on some of the new titles and events on the horizon, such as Eternal Warrior, Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps, and the new Sect Civil War crossover. Not only do Andy and Derek look in-depth into each individual series, but they also discuss the broader picture, trying to find some of the common features and themes that compose the new Valiant universe. They also debate whether or not the relaunched titles are actually superhero comics, or if perhaps they may be better described as mashups of different (and competing) genres. There’s a lot that goes on in this episode, jam-packed with comics goodness, and the Two Guys with PhDs feel that they’ve thrown down the critical gauntlet for all future discussions of Valiant. This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are doing something they’ve never done before: devoting an entire episode to a specific publisher. And this first time out they’ve decided to focus on Valiant Comics and all of the various (and relaunched) titles that they began putting out last year. It is a formidable task, but Andy and Derek are up to the challenge! They begin this Publisher Spotlight by discussing one of their favorites of the group, Archer and Armstrong, briefly look at the latest title, Quantum and Woody, and then move on to Harbinger, Bloodshot, and the Harbinger Wars crossover event, the new Valiant’s first. They also weigh in on X-O Manowar and Shadowman, as well as speculate on some of the new titles and events on the horizon, such as Eternal Warrior, Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps, and the new Sect Civil War crossover. Not only do Andy and Derek look in-depth into each individual series, but they also discuss the broader picture, trying to find some of the common features and themes that compose the new Valiant universe. They also debate whether or not the relaunched titles are actually superhero comics, or if perhaps they may be better described as mashups of different (and competing) genres. There’s a lot that goes on in this episode, jam-packed with comics goodness, and the Two Guys with PhDs feel that they’ve thrown down the critical gauntlet for all future discussions of Valiant.

]]> 6567 no Episode 46 - An Interview with Matt Fraction http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-46.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are excited to have as their guest creator extraordinaire, Matt Fraction. They talk with Matt specifically about his new series through Image Comics, Satellite Sam (with Howard Chaykin on art) and Sex Criminals (with Chip Zdarsky), but they also take the opportunity to discuss other works of his, such as the current Hawkeye series, his Casanova comics, and graphic novels such as The Five Fists of Science. Perhaps one of the most enlightening moments of the interview concerns issue #2 of Satellite Sam, where Matt points out that you can indeed letter the sound of “whiskey dick.” But comics aren’t all that the guys discuss. Andy, Derek, and Matt also spend a lot of time talking about, ShitMyHowardSays, underrated works from Stanley Kubrick, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Fredric Wertham, and Matt Helm movies! It’s a veritable smorgasbord of pop cultural fun! However, Andy comes away from the experience a changed man, wondering if his love of everything Dean Martin has all been for naught. “Nothing gold can stay, Ponyboy.” Wed, 17 Jul 2013 19:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Whiskey dick does have a sound effect.” This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are excited to have as their guest creator extraordinaire, Matt Fraction. They talk with Matt specifically about his new series through Image Comics, Satellite Sam (with Howard Chaykin on art) and Sex Criminals (with Chip Zdarsky), but they also take the opportunity to discuss other works of his, such as the current Hawkeye series, his Casanova comics, and graphic novels such as The Five Fists of Science. Perhaps one of the most enlightening moments of the interview concerns issue #2 of Satellite Sam, where Matt points out that you can indeed letter the sound of “whiskey dick.” But comics aren’t all that the guys discuss. Andy, Derek, and Matt also spend a lot of time talking about, ShitMyHowardSays, underrated works from Stanley Kubrick, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Fredric Wertham, and Matt Helm movies! It’s a veritable smorgasbord of pop cultural fun! However, Andy comes away from the experience a changed man, wondering if his love of everything Dean Martin has all been for naught. “Nothing gold can stay, Ponyboy.” This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are excited to have as their guest creator extraordinaire, Matt Fraction. They talk with Matt specifically about his new series through Image Comics, Satellite Sam (with Howard Chaykin on art) and Sex Criminals (with Chip Zdarsky), but they also take the opportunity to discuss other works of his, such as the current Hawkeye series, his Casanova comics, and graphic novels such as The Five Fists of Science. Perhaps one of the most enlightening moments of the interview concerns issue #2 of Satellite Sam, where Matt points out that you can indeed letter the sound of “whiskey dick.” But comics aren’t all that the guys discuss. Andy, Derek, and Matt also spend a lot of time talking about, ShitMyHowardSays, underrated works from Stanley Kubrick, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Fredric Wertham, and Matt Helm movies! It’s a veritable smorgasbord of pop cultural fun! However, Andy comes away from the experience a changed man, wondering if his love of everything Dean Martin has all been for naught. “Nothing gold can stay, Ponyboy.”

]]> 5950 yes Episode 45 - The July Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-45.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back for their monthly look at the Previews catalog. This July they highlight many of the new comics coming out from Dark Horse, DC/Vertigo, IDW, Image, Action Lab Entertainment, Archaia, Archie Comics, Avatar Press, Dynamite Entertainment, Drawn and Quarterly, Fantagraphics, First Second, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, NBM, among many others publishers. Along the way, Andy and Derek also bring in various and sundry topics, such as the guys’ love of The Rockford Files, strategies for collecting Wacky Packages stickers, Andy’s shameful lackluster appreciation of The Beatles, the Captain Action action figure, Hello Kitty is made of kittens!, Hall and Oates, Satan worshipers, and Derek and Andy’s idea for a new reality show, “Put That in Your Underpants”! Lots o’ comics, lots o’ discussion, and lots o’ fun. What more could you ask for in a comics podcast? Wed, 10 Jul 2013 16:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Hall & Oates…They’re all about Satan.” The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back for their monthly look at the Previews catalog. This July they highlight many of the new comics coming out from Dark Horse, DC/Vertigo, IDW, Image, Action Lab Entertainment, Archaia, Archie Comics, Avatar Press, Dynamite Entertainment, Drawn and Quarterly, Fantagraphics, First Second, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, NBM, among many others publishers. Along the way, Andy and Derek also bring in various and sundry topics, such as the guys’ love of The Rockford Files, strategies for collecting Wacky Packages stickers, Andy’s shameful lackluster appreciation of The Beatles, the Captain Action action figure, Hello Kitty is made of kittens!, Hall and Oates, Satan worshipers, and Derek and Andy’s idea for a new reality show, “Put That in Your Underpants”! Lots o’ comics, lots o’ discussion, and lots o’ fun. What more could you ask for in a comics podcast? The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics are back for their monthly look at the Previews catalog. This July they highlight many of the new comics coming out from Dark Horse, DC/Vertigo, IDW, Image, Action Lab Entertainment, Archaia, Archie Comics, Avatar Press, Dynamite Entertainment, Drawn and Quarterly, Fantagraphics, First Second, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, NBM, among many others publishers. Along the way, Andy and Derek also bring in various and sundry topics, such as the guys’ love of The Rockford Files, strategies for collecting Wacky Packages stickers, Andy’s shameful lackluster appreciation of The Beatles, the Captain Action action figure, Hello Kitty is made of kittens!, Hall and Oates, Satan worshipers, and Derek and Andy’s idea for a new reality show, “Put That in Your Underpants”! Lots o’ comics, lots o’ discussion, and lots o’ fun. What more could you ask for in a comics podcast?

]]> 5972 no Episode 44.1 - Discussing Comics about America at Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-44-1.mp3 Andy and Derek are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, and this month they’re talking about American-themed comics with the scheduling manager of the shop and good friend of the show, Shea Hennum. Since this is the month of Independence Day, the Two Guys with PhDs thought it would be a great opportunity to focus on comics about the United States, its history, its culture, and its people. Among the many comics they discuss are Harvey Pekar’s American Splendor, Steve Darnall and Alex Ross’s Uncle Sam, John Ridley and Georges Jeanty’s The American Way, Howard Chaykin’s American Flagg, Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon’s Preacher, Dennis O’Neil and Neal Adams’s Green Lantern/Green Arrow comics of the 1970s, Alan Moore’s Swamp Thing,  the Marvel event Civil War, the various incarnations of Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters, and Paul Pope comics. They also talk about other kinds of comics, such as Adventure Time, Brandon Graham’s Prophet (which Derek does like, thank you very much), Frank Young and David Lasky’s The Carter Family, Garth Ennis’s Fury MAX, and erotic comics, among others. They also give their two cents on the recent announcements on the acquisition of Archaia by Boom! Studios and on Kitchen Sink joining forces with Dark Horse. And as an extra added bonus, you get to hear Shea, Andy, and Derek describe what they plan to do for the July 4th holiday (nothing exciting, really). The Two Guys with PhDs also name the winner of their July contest and announce the theme of next month’s Lone Star Comics discussion and giveaway: all-age comics. So be sure to check back in August for that episode! Fri, 05 Jul 2013 17:00:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Comments of the Free on the Podcast of the Brave Andy and Derek are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, and this month they’re talking about American-themed comics with the scheduling manager of the shop and good friend of the show, Shea Hennum. Since this is the month of Independence Day, the Two Guys with PhDs thought it would be a great opportunity to focus on comics about the United States, its history, its culture, and its people. Among the many comics they discuss are Harvey Pekar’s American Splendor, Steve Darnall and Alex Ross’s Uncle Sam, John Ridley and Georges Jeanty’s The American Way, Howard Chaykin’s American Flagg, Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon’s Preacher, Dennis O’Neil and Neal Adams’s Green Lantern/Green Arrow comics of the 1970s, Alan Moore’s Swamp Thing,  the Marvel event Civil War, the various incarnations of Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters, and Paul Pope comics. They also talk about other kinds of comics, such as Adventure Time, Brandon Graham’s Prophet (which Derek does like, thank you very much), Frank Young and David Lasky’s The Carter Family, Garth Ennis’s Fury MAX, and erotic comics, among others. They also give their two cents on the recent announcements on the acquisition of Archaia by Boom! Studios and on Kitchen Sink joining forces with Dark Horse. And as an extra added bonus, you get to hear Shea, Andy, and Derek describe what they plan to do for the July 4th holiday (nothing exciting, really). The Two Guys with PhDs also name the winner of their July contest and announce the theme of next month’s Lone Star Comics discussion and giveaway: all-age comics. So be sure to check back in August for that episode! Andy and Derek are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, and this month they’re talking about American-themed comics with the scheduling manager of the shop and good friend of the show, Shea Hennum. Since this is the month of Independence Day, the Two Guys with PhDs thought it would be a great opportunity to focus on comics about the United States, its history, its culture, and its people. Among the many comics they discuss are Harvey Pekar’s American Splendor, Steve Darnall and Alex Ross’s Uncle Sam, John Ridley and Georges Jeanty’s The American Way, Howard Chaykin’s American Flagg, Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon’s Preacher, Dennis O’Neil and Neal Adams’s Green Lantern/Green Arrow comics of the 1970s, Alan Moore’s Swamp Thing,  the Marvel event Civil War, the various incarnations of Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters, and Paul Pope comics. They also talk about other kinds of comics, such as Adventure Time, Brandon Graham’s Prophet (which Derek does like, thank you very much), Frank Young and David Lasky’s The Carter Family, Garth Ennis’s Fury MAX, and erotic comics, among others. They also give their two cents on the recent announcements on the acquisition of Archaia by Boom! Studios and on Kitchen Sink joining forces with Dark Horse. And as an extra added bonus, you get to hear Shea, Andy, and Derek describe what they plan to do for the July 4th holiday (nothing exciting, really). The Two Guys with PhDs also name the winner of their July contest and announce the theme of next month’s Lone Star Comics discussion and giveaway: all-age comics. So be sure to check back in August for that episode!

]]> 4683 no Episode 44 - An Interview with Derek McCulloch and Colleen Doran http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-44.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs speak with the creators behind Gone to Amerikay (Vertigo), Derek McCulloch and Colleen Doran. Here you get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this important work, including the genesis of the book, McCulloch’s strategies for crafting his narratives, the curious inspirations for Doran’s art, and the incredible synergy that brought the project to life. Andy and Derek R. also talk with Colleen and Derek M. about some of their other projects, including Colleen’s A Distant Soil and Orbiter (along with Warren Ellis), as well as Derek M.’s graphic novel, Stagger Lee (with Shepherd Hendrix). What better way to start off July, the month of our nation’s independence, than discussing a book that taps deep into the American Experience? Wed, 03 Jul 2013 14:30:00 -0000 full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Immigration Reform, The Pogues, and Capt. Jack Harkness This week on The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs speak with the creators behind Gone to Amerikay (Vertigo), Derek McCulloch and Colleen Doran. Here you get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this important work, including the genesis of the book, McCulloch’s strategies for crafting his narratives, the curious inspirations for Doran’s art, and the incredible synergy that brought the project to life. Andy and Derek R. also talk with Colleen and Derek M. about some of their other projects, including Colleen’s A Distant Soil and Orbiter (along with Warren Ellis), as well as Derek M.’s graphic novel, Stagger Lee (with Shepherd Hendrix). What better way to start off July, the month of our nation’s independence, than discussing a book that taps deep into the American Experience? This week on The Comics Alternative the Two Guys with PhDs speak with the creators behind Gone to Amerikay (Vertigo), Derek McCulloch and Colleen Doran. Here you get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this important work, including the genesis of the book, McCulloch’s strategies for crafting his narratives, the curious inspirations for Doran’s art, and the incredible synergy that brought the project to life. Andy and Derek R. also talk with Colleen and Derek M. about some of their other projects, including Colleen’s A Distant Soil and Orbiter (along with Warren Ellis), as well as Derek M.’s graphic novel, Stagger Lee (with Shepherd Hendrix). What better way to start off July, the month of our nation’s independence, than discussing a book that taps deep into the American Experience?

]]> 5664 no Episode 43 - A Review of #1 Issues of 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, Astro City, Six-Gun Gorilla, and Lazarus http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-43.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs review several #1 issues that have come out in the past couple of weeks. First, they discuss two Vertigo titles, Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso’s 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, and Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson’s Astro City. Andy and Derek spend a bit of time discussing the earlier series that these new comics are based on, but they also point out how both of these #1 issues are good jumping on points and accessible to readers unfamiliar with 100 Bullets and the earlier Astro City works. In addition, they argue that these two titles are just another indication that earlier worries about Vertigo’s fate might have been misplaced. Next they move on to Six-Gun Gorilla (Boom! Studios), written by Simon Spurrier with art by Jeff Stokely. The guys note the unique atmosphere of this title, science fiction in what appears to be a late-nineteen-century-like setting, and of course allude to the original pulp story, serialized in the UK magazine Wizard in 1939, that this comic is based on. Next, Andy and Derek look at another kind of science fiction mashup, Greg Rucka and Michael Lark’s Lazarus (Image Comics). This new ongoing series has a lot of promise, and the guys point out how the creators do an incredible job of setting up their premise in this first issue.  If these are the kind of #1 issues we can expect to see this summer, then hold onto your sunscreen…the fun is just beginning! Wed, 26 Jun 2013 18:00:00 -0000 Reviews of #1 Issues of 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, Astro City, Six-Gun Gorilla, and Lazarus full 43 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Working Our Way to Being #1 in Your Hearts This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs review several #1 issues that have come out in the past couple of weeks. First, they discuss two Vertigo titles, Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso’s 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, and Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson’s Astro City. Andy and Derek spend a bit of time discussing the earlier series that these new comics are based on, but they also point out how both of these #1 issues are good jumping on points and accessible to readers unfamiliar with 100 Bullets and the earlier Astro City works. In addition, they argue that these two titles are just another indication that earlier worries about Vertigo’s fate might have been misplaced. Next they move on to Six-Gun Gorilla (Boom! Studios), written by Simon Spurrier with art by Jeff Stokely. The guys note the unique atmosphere of this title, science fiction in what appears to be a late-nineteen-century-like setting, and of course allude to the original pulp story, serialized in the UK magazine Wizard in 1939, that this comic is based on. Next, Andy and Derek look at another kind of science fiction mashup, Greg Rucka and Michael Lark’s Lazarus (Image Comics). This new ongoing series has a lot of promise, and the guys point out how the creators do an incredible job of setting up their premise in this first issue.  If these are the kind of #1 issues we can expect to see this summer, then hold onto your sunscreen…the fun is just beginning! This week on The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs review several #1 issues that have come out in the past couple of weeks. First, they discuss two Vertigo titles, Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso’s 100 Bullets: Brother Lono, and Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson’s Astro City. Andy and Derek spend a bit of time discussing the earlier series that these new comics are based on, but they also point out how both of these #1 issues are good jumping on points and accessible to readers unfamiliar with 100 Bullets and the earlier Astro City works. In addition, they argue that these two titles are just another indication that earlier worries about Vertigo’s fate might have been misplaced. Next they move on to Six-Gun Gorilla (Boom! Studios), written by Simon Spurrier with art by Jeff Stokely. The guys note the unique atmosphere of this title, science fiction in what appears to be a late-nineteen-century-like setting, and of course allude to the original pulp story, serialized in the UK magazine Wizard in 1939, that this comic is based on. Next, Andy and Derek look at another kind of science fiction mashup, Greg Rucka and Michael Lark’s Lazarus (Image Comics). This new ongoing series has a lot of promise, and the guys point out how the creators do an incredible job of setting up their premise in this first issue.  If these are the kind of #1 issues we can expect to see this summer, then hold onto your sunscreen…the fun is just beginning!

]]> 5427 no Episode 42 - A Review of The Voyeurs, The Mire, and Demeter http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-42.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs review Gabrielle Bell’s latest book, The Voyeurs (Uncivilized Books), as well as two self-published comics from Becky Cloonan, The Mire and Demeter. This is the perfect episode to follow last week’s roundtable on the mainstream-indie comics divide, in that the work of both Bell and Cloonan exemplify many of the points raised in that discussion. First, Andy and Derek do an in-depth reading of The Voyeurs, placing it within the larger context of Bell’s body of work. They emphasize the semi-autobiographic nature of the book, while at the same time pointing out how much of The Voyeurs is more ambitious than her earlier comics, combining many of the best features found in her Lucky series (collected in 2003) and the more fictional Cecil and Jordan in New York (2008). The guys then move on to Becky Cloonan’s recent self-published comics, The Mire (a 2013 Eisner Award nominee) and Demeter. After briefly discussing some of Cloonan’s mainstream work, such as American Virgin (with Steven T. Seagle, 2006-2008) and Demo (with Brian Wood, 2003 and 2010), Andy and Derek move quickly into the independently published comics, highlighting many of the features that set these titles apart from her mainstream work. They specifically focus on the poetic quality of both The Mire and Demeter, seeing these comics as sophisticated and almost elusive narratives that challenge the reader in significant ways. Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:30:00 -0000 Reviews of The Voyeurs, The Mire, and Demeter full 42 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Jerry, stay alive." This week the Two Guys with PhDs review Gabrielle Bell’s latest book, The Voyeurs (Uncivilized Books), as well as two self-published comics from Becky Cloonan, The Mire and Demeter. This is the perfect episode to follow last week’s roundtable on the mainstream-indie comics divide, in that the work of both Bell and Cloonan exemplify many of the points raised in that discussion. First, Andy and Derek do an in-depth reading of The Voyeurs, placing it within the larger context of Bell’s body of work. They emphasize the semi-autobiographic nature of the book, while at the same time pointing out how much of The Voyeurs is more ambitious than her earlier comics, combining many of the best features found in her Lucky series (collected in 2003) and the more fictional Cecil and Jordan in New York (2008). The guys then move on to Becky Cloonan’s recent self-published comics, The Mire (a 2013 Eisner Award nominee) and Demeter. After briefly discussing some of Cloonan’s mainstream work, such as American Virgin (with Steven T. Seagle, 2006-2008) and Demo (with Brian Wood, 2003 and 2010), Andy and Derek move quickly into the independently published comics, highlighting many of the features that set these titles apart from her mainstream work. They specifically focus on the poetic quality of both The Mire and Demeter, seeing these comics as sophisticated and almost elusive narratives that challenge the reader in significant ways. This week the Two Guys with PhDs review Gabrielle Bell’s latest book, The Voyeurs (Uncivilized Books), as well as two self-published comics from Becky Cloonan, The Mire and Demeter. This is the perfect episode to follow last week’s roundtable on the mainstream-indie comics divide, in that the work of both Bell and Cloonan exemplify many of the points raised in that discussion. First, Andy and Derek do an in-depth reading of The Voyeurs, placing it within the larger context of Bell’s body of work. They emphasize the semi-autobiographic nature of the book, while at the same time pointing out how much of The Voyeurs is more ambitious than her earlier comics, combining many of the best features found in her Lucky series (collected in 2003) and the more fictional Cecil and Jordan in New York (2008). The guys then move on to Becky Cloonan’s recent self-published comics, The Mire (a 2013 Eisner Award nominee) and Demeter. After briefly discussing some of Cloonan’s mainstream work, such as American Virgin (with Steven T. Seagle, 2006-2008) and Demo (with Brian Wood, 2003 and 2010), Andy and Derek move quickly into the independently published comics, highlighting many of the features that set these titles apart from her mainstream work. They specifically focus on the poetic quality of both The Mire and Demeter, seeing these comics as sophisticated and almost elusive narratives that challenge the reader in significant ways.

]]> 6015 no Episode 41.1 - Hanging Out at HeroesCon http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-41-1.mp3 Andy and Derek are back for another of their Point One episodes, and this time they’re on the floor of HeroesCon, taking place on June 7-9 in Charlotte, NC. Andy was there for the entire weekend — as is his annual tradition — and Derek was able to get there for Sunday, the last day of the con. So the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were able to join forces and leap into action, schmoozing and cavorting and interviewing a number of creators/publishers in Artist Alley. You’ll hear in this show some of the fruits of their encounters, brief conversations with John Layman, Duffy Boudreau, Peter Bagge, Evan Dorkin, Eric Powell, Andy Hirsch, Jim Ottaviani, and Maris Wicks, among others. Also on this episode Andy shares some of his memorable HeroesCon encounters, and Derek reveals his suspect use of the word “wacky.” A great time was had by all, and we hope you enjoy listening to some of the fun the Two Guys had this past weekend. Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:00:00 -0000 Hanging Out at HeroesCon full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Did You Actually Say ‘Wacky’?” Andy and Derek are back for another of their Point One episodes, and this time they’re on the floor of HeroesCon, taking place on June 7-9 in Charlotte, NC. Andy was there for the entire weekend — as is his annual tradition — and Derek was able to get there for Sunday, the last day of the con. So the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were able to join forces and leap into action, schmoozing and cavorting and interviewing a number of creators/publishers in Artist Alley. You’ll hear in this show some of the fruits of their encounters, brief conversations with John Layman, Duffy Boudreau, Peter Bagge, Evan Dorkin, Eric Powell, Andy Hirsch, Jim Ottaviani, and Maris Wicks, among others. Also on this episode Andy shares some of his memorable HeroesCon encounters, and Derek reveals his suspect use of the word “wacky.” A great time was had by all, and we hope you enjoy listening to some of the fun the Two Guys had this past weekend. Andy and Derek are back for another of their Point One episodes, and this time they’re on the floor of HeroesCon, taking place on June 7-9 in Charlotte, NC. Andy was there for the entire weekend — as is his annual tradition — and Derek was able to get there for Sunday, the last day of the con. So the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were able to join forces and leap into action, schmoozing and cavorting and interviewing a number of creators/publishers in Artist Alley. You’ll hear in this show some of the fruits of their encounters, brief conversations with John Layman, Duffy Boudreau, Peter Bagge, Evan Dorkin, Eric Powell, Andy Hirsch, Jim Ottaviani, and Maris Wicks, among others. Also on this episode Andy shares some of his memorable HeroesCon encounters, and Derek reveals his suspect use of the word “wacky.” A great time was had by all, and we hope you enjoy listening to some of the fun the Two Guys had this past weekend.

]]> 6667 no Episode 41 - A Roundtable Discussion on the Mainstream-Indie Divide http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-41.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek present another roundtable discussion, this one devoted to the mainstream and indie comics divide. They are joined by fellow podcasters John Mayo, from the Comic Book Page podcast, and Chris Marshall, from Collected Comics Library. On this roundtable, the four guys begin by defining their terms and asking some basic questions — such as What are mainstream comics?, What defines an alternative or indie title?, How does one inform the other?, and What are the differences between the readerships of these different kinds of comics? — and from there the discussion goes off into different trajectories, all filled with nuanced responses and unexpected twists. Chris, John, Andy, and Derek cover genre definitions, the expectations underlying mainstream titles, the difficulty pinpointing indie content, the influences of fandom, divergences of readership, title availability, the “literariness” of certain comics, and, of course, the historical inheritance of comics as a disposable medium of “kids stuff.” They cover a lot of ground, and with intelligent, substantive conversation. What’s more, everyone had such a good time that the four guys have decided to do another roundtable discussion in the near future. Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:00:00 -0000 A Roundtable Discussion on the Mainstream-Indie Divide full 41 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Podcast Crossover Event of the Year…or at Least Recently This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek present another roundtable discussion, this one devoted to the mainstream and indie comics divide. They are joined by fellow podcasters John Mayo, from the Comic Book Page podcast, and Chris Marshall, from Collected Comics Library. On this roundtable, the four guys begin by defining their terms and asking some basic questions — such as What are mainstream comics?, What defines an alternative or indie title?, How does one inform the other?, and What are the differences between the readerships of these different kinds of comics? — and from there the discussion goes off into different trajectories, all filled with nuanced responses and unexpected twists. Chris, John, Andy, and Derek cover genre definitions, the expectations underlying mainstream titles, the difficulty pinpointing indie content, the influences of fandom, divergences of readership, title availability, the “literariness” of certain comics, and, of course, the historical inheritance of comics as a disposable medium of “kids stuff.” They cover a lot of ground, and with intelligent, substantive conversation. What’s more, everyone had such a good time that the four guys have decided to do another roundtable discussion in the near future. This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek present another roundtable discussion, this one devoted to the mainstream and indie comics divide. They are joined by fellow podcasters John Mayo, from the Comic Book Page podcast, and Chris Marshall, from Collected Comics Library. On this roundtable, the four guys begin by defining their terms and asking some basic questions — such as What are mainstream comics?, What defines an alternative or indie title?, How does one inform the other?, and What are the differences between the readerships of these different kinds of comics? — and from there the discussion goes off into different trajectories, all filled with nuanced responses and unexpected twists. Chris, John, Andy, and Derek cover genre definitions, the expectations underlying mainstream titles, the difficulty pinpointing indie content, the influences of fandom, divergences of readership, title availability, the “literariness” of certain comics, and, of course, the historical inheritance of comics as a disposable medium of “kids stuff.” They cover a lot of ground, and with intelligent, substantive conversation. What’s more, everyone had such a good time that the four guys have decided to do another roundtable discussion in the near future.

]]> 6725 no Episode 40.1 - Talking Science Fiction at Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-40-1.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, and this time they are talking science fiction with the store manager, Rick Cromack, and his trusty sidekick, Shea Hennum. This is the first of a two-episode look at sci-fi comics with the guys at Lone Star (the second will come at the end of the summer).  In this first show they kick off the summer movie season by discussing some of the recent movie releases — such as Iron Man 3, Star Trek: Into Darkness, and Man of Steel — and how those films are related to the franchises’ comics…or vice versa.  They also bring up a number of non-film-related sci-fi comics (such as Prophet and The Massive), attempt to define “science fiction” and emphasize its elasticity, play around with the boundaries of the genre, and even debate what comics may or may not be considered science fiction. Along the way Rick argues that Superman isn’t really a superhero, Andy’s head subsequently explodes, Shea reveals his need to be housebroken, and Derek finds that with some of his critical opinions he is the odd man out (again). They are joined later in the episode by a dedicated Lone Star Comics customer who poses the timely question, “Who will be the next Doctor Who?” They cover a lot of ground in this episode, and everyone has a good time…especially when Andy and Derek announce the winner of their June giveaway! Thu, 06 Jun 2013 22:00:00 -0000 Talking Science Fiction at Lone Star Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Wish I Could Fly Like Superman The Two Guys with PhDs are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, and this time they are talking science fiction with the store manager, Rick Cromack, and his trusty sidekick, Shea Hennum. This is the first of a two-episode look at sci-fi comics with the guys at Lone Star (the second will come at the end of the summer).  In this first show they kick off the summer movie season by discussing some of the recent movie releases — such as Iron Man 3, Star Trek: Into Darkness, and Man of Steel — and how those films are related to the franchises’ comics…or vice versa.  They also bring up a number of non-film-related sci-fi comics (such as Prophet and The Massive), attempt to define “science fiction” and emphasize its elasticity, play around with the boundaries of the genre, and even debate what comics may or may not be considered science fiction. Along the way Rick argues that Superman isn’t really a superhero, Andy’s head subsequently explodes, Shea reveals his need to be housebroken, and Derek finds that with some of his critical opinions he is the odd man out (again). They are joined later in the episode by a dedicated Lone Star Comics customer who poses the timely question, “Who will be the next Doctor Who?” They cover a lot of ground in this episode, and everyone has a good time…especially when Andy and Derek announce the winner of their June giveaway! The Two Guys with PhDs are back at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, and this time they are talking science fiction with the store manager, Rick Cromack, and his trusty sidekick, Shea Hennum. This is the first of a two-episode look at sci-fi comics with the guys at Lone Star (the second will come at the end of the summer).  In this first show they kick off the summer movie season by discussing some of the recent movie releases — such as Iron Man 3, Star Trek: Into Darkness, and Man of Steel — and how those films are related to the franchises’ comics…or vice versa.  They also bring up a number of non-film-related sci-fi comics (such as Prophet and The Massive), attempt to define “science fiction” and emphasize its elasticity, play around with the boundaries of the genre, and even debate what comics may or may not be considered science fiction. Along the way Rick argues that Superman isn’t really a superhero, Andy’s head subsequently explodes, Shea reveals his need to be housebroken, and Derek finds that with some of his critical opinions he is the odd man out (again). They are joined later in the episode by a dedicated Lone Star Comics customer who poses the timely question, “Who will be the next Doctor Who?” They cover a lot of ground in this episode, and everyone has a good time…especially when Andy and Derek announce the winner of their June giveaway!

]]> 5394 no Episode 40 - The June Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-40.mp3 This week on the podcast Andy and Derek flip through the pages of the June Previews catalog, and there they find a whole slew of great upcoming titles. In fact, this month they find solicits on an exciting lineup of new alternative and indie books, including Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve and Seth’s Palookaville (both from Drawn and Quarterly), the Hernandez brothers’ Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 6 (Fantagraphics), John Lewis and Andrew Aydin’s March, Book 1 (Top Shelf), Zak Sally’s Sammy the Mouse Vol. 2 (Uncivilized Books), Ben Acker and Ben Blacker’s The Thrilling Adventure Hour (Archaia Entertainment), Jack Katz’s The First Kingdom, Vol. 1: The Birth of Tundran (Titan Comics), P. Craig Russell’s Opera Adaptations (NBM), Classics Illustrated Deluxe, Vol. 10: The Murder in the Rue Morgue and Other Tales (Papercutz), as well as Howard Chaykin’s Buck Rogers in the 25th Century and Walt Kelly’s Pogo: The Complete Dell Comics, Vol. 1 (both from Hermes Press). Wed, 05 Jun 2013 13:00:00 -0000 The June Previews Catalog full 40 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal “Constantly in Danger of Scurvy” This week on the podcast Andy and Derek flip through the pages of the June Previews catalog, and there they find a whole slew of great upcoming titles. In fact, this month they find solicits on an exciting lineup of new alternative and indie books, including Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve and Seth’s Palookaville (both from Drawn and Quarterly), the Hernandez brothers’ Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 6 (Fantagraphics), John Lewis and Andrew Aydin’s March, Book 1 (Top Shelf), Zak Sally’s Sammy the Mouse Vol. 2 (Uncivilized Books), Ben Acker and Ben Blacker’s The Thrilling Adventure Hour (Archaia Entertainment), Jack Katz’s The First Kingdom, Vol. 1: The Birth of Tundran (Titan Comics), P. Craig Russell’s Opera Adaptations (NBM), Classics Illustrated Deluxe, Vol. 10: The Murder in the Rue Morgue and Other Tales (Papercutz), as well as Howard Chaykin’s Buck Rogers in the 25th Century and Walt Kelly’s Pogo: The Complete Dell Comics, Vol. 1 (both from Hermes Press). This week on the podcast Andy and Derek flip through the pages of the June Previews catalog, and there they find a whole slew of great upcoming titles. In fact, this month they find solicits on an exciting lineup of new alternative and indie books, including Adrian Tomine’s Optic Nerve and Seth’s Palookaville (both from Drawn and Quarterly), the Hernandez brothers’ Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 6 (Fantagraphics), John Lewis and Andrew Aydin’s March, Book 1 (Top Shelf), Zak Sally’s Sammy the Mouse Vol. 2 (Uncivilized Books), Ben Acker and Ben Blacker’s The Thrilling Adventure Hour (Archaia Entertainment), Jack Katz’s The First Kingdom, Vol. 1: The Birth of Tundran (Titan Comics), P. Craig Russell’s Opera Adaptations (NBM), Classics Illustrated Deluxe, Vol. 10: The Murder in the Rue Morgue and Other Tales (Papercutz), as well as Howard Chaykin’s Buck Rogers in the 25th Century and Walt Kelly’s Pogo: The Complete Dell Comics, Vol. 1 (both from Hermes Press).

]]> 6053 no Episode 39 - An Interview with the Creators of Subatomic Party Girls http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-39.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast Andy and Derek invite the creators of the new digital comic, Subatomic Party Girls (Monkeybrain Comics), into their virtual studio for an interview. Chris Sims, Chad Bowers, and Erica Henderson share with the Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) the origins of their new series; the unusual character lineup; their unique mashup of absurd humor, rock history, and sci-fi madness; and their working relationship, in all of its dysfunctional fun-filled glory. Along the way they discuss their other works, such as Awesome Hospital and their upcoming Oni comic Down! Set! Fight!, and how Subatomic Party Girls is providing them with new challenges. The conversation is jam-packed with trivia, pop cultural allusions, and sundry marginalia, and at times it seeps into crannies that you wouldn’t expect. But Chris, Chad, and Erica always bring it back to their new series and how being interviewed on The Comics Alternative has been the highlight of their careers. We couldn’t agree more. Wed, 29 May 2013 12:00:00 -0000 An Interview with the Creators of Subatomic Party Girls full 39 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Rock and Roll Never Forgets This week on The Comics Alternative podcast Andy and Derek invite the creators of the new digital comic, Subatomic Party Girls (Monkeybrain Comics), into their virtual studio for an interview. Chris Sims, Chad Bowers, and Erica Henderson share with the Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) the origins of their new series; the unusual character lineup; their unique mashup of absurd humor, rock history, and sci-fi madness; and their working relationship, in all of its dysfunctional fun-filled glory. Along the way they discuss their other works, such as Awesome Hospital and their upcoming Oni comic Down! Set! Fight!, and how Subatomic Party Girls is providing them with new challenges. The conversation is jam-packed with trivia, pop cultural allusions, and sundry marginalia, and at times it seeps into crannies that you wouldn’t expect. But Chris, Chad, and Erica always bring it back to their new series and how being interviewed on The Comics Alternative has been the highlight of their careers. We couldn’t agree more. This week on The Comics Alternative podcast Andy and Derek invite the creators of the new digital comic, Subatomic Party Girls (Monkeybrain Comics), into their virtual studio for an interview. Chris Sims, Chad Bowers, and Erica Henderson share with the Two Guys with PhDs (Talking about Comics) the origins of their new series; the unusual character lineup; their unique mashup of absurd humor, rock history, and sci-fi madness; and their working relationship, in all of its dysfunctional fun-filled glory. Along the way they discuss their other works, such as Awesome Hospital and their upcoming Oni comic Down! Set! Fight!, and how Subatomic Party Girls is providing them with new challenges. The conversation is jam-packed with trivia, pop cultural allusions, and sundry marginalia, and at times it seeps into crannies that you wouldn’t expect. But Chris, Chad, and Erica always bring it back to their new series and how being interviewed on The Comics Alternative has been the highlight of their careers. We couldn’t agree more.

]]> 4183 no Episode 38.1 - At the Dallas Comic Con http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-38-1.mp3 This past Saturday, Derek attended the Dallas Comic Con, which was held at the Irving Convention Center, and ran from May 17-19. There, he spoke with a variety of creators and publishers, asking them about their comics and encouraging them to share with The Comics Alternative listeners their various projects, both recent and future. This was a heavily celebrity-ladened con — William Shatner and Brent Spiner were there, Nathan Fillion was supposed to be there (but didn’t make it), and Derek’s daughter, Zoe, was completely mesmerized by Adam Baldwin, who actually signed her homemade Jayne hat — and that part was fun. But Derek focused mostly on getting to the comics folk themselves. In his peregrinations around the convention floor, he was able to speak with Robert Wilson IV (artist of Knuckleheads), Jackie Cannon and Erik Reeves (writer and artist of Hoodratz in Space), creator Terry Moore (of Strangers in Paradise and Rachel Rising fame), Hunter S. Zombie (writer of Stillborn), Scott Chitwood (publisher of Red 5 Comics), Danny Allain and Paul Soileau (creator and publisher of Dead Reckoning), Dave Johnson (illustrator and cover artist for 100 Bullets), Amanda Conner (covers for My Little Pony and artist and co-writer of Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre), Kerry Gammill (publisher and editor-in-chief of Monsterverse Entertainment), and Steve Erwin (illustrator of the upcoming graphic novel version of Robert A. Heinlein’s Citizen of the Galaxy). It was a lot of fun all around — the artists, the celebrities, the cosplay, the weirdness — and in this Point One episode, Derek shares with you his talk with several fascinating individuals. Listen and enjoy, won’t you? Thu, 23 May 2013 15:35:00 -0000 At the Dallas Comic Con full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Talk from the Floor! This past Saturday, Derek attended the Dallas Comic Con, which was held at the Irving Convention Center, and ran from May 17-19. There, he spoke with a variety of creators and publishers, asking them about their comics and encouraging them to share with The Comics Alternative listeners their various projects, both recent and future. This was a heavily celebrity-ladened con — William Shatner and Brent Spiner were there, Nathan Fillion was supposed to be there (but didn’t make it), and Derek’s daughter, Zoe, was completely mesmerized by Adam Baldwin, who actually signed her homemade Jayne hat — and that part was fun. But Derek focused mostly on getting to the comics folk themselves. In his peregrinations around the convention floor, he was able to speak with Robert Wilson IV (artist of Knuckleheads), Jackie Cannon and Erik Reeves (writer and artist of Hoodratz in Space), creator Terry Moore (of Strangers in Paradise and Rachel Rising fame), Hunter S. Zombie (writer of Stillborn), Scott Chitwood (publisher of Red 5 Comics), Danny Allain and Paul Soileau (creator and publisher of Dead Reckoning), Dave Johnson (illustrator and cover artist for 100 Bullets), Amanda Conner (covers for My Little Pony and artist and co-writer of Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre), Kerry Gammill (publisher and editor-in-chief of Monsterverse Entertainment), and Steve Erwin (illustrator of the upcoming graphic novel version of Robert A. Heinlein’s Citizen of the Galaxy). It was a lot of fun all around — the artists, the celebrities, the cosplay, the weirdness — and in this Point One episode, Derek shares with you his talk with several fascinating individuals. Listen and enjoy, won’t you? This past Saturday, Derek attended the Dallas Comic Con, which was held at the Irving Convention Center, and ran from May 17-19. There, he spoke with a variety of creators and publishers, asking them about their comics and encouraging them to share with The Comics Alternative listeners their various projects, both recent and future. This was a heavily celebrity-ladened con — William Shatner and Brent Spiner were there, Nathan Fillion was supposed to be there (but didn’t make it), and Derek’s daughter, Zoe, was completely mesmerized by Adam Baldwin, who actually signed her homemade Jayne hat — and that part was fun. But Derek focused mostly on getting to the comics folk themselves. In his peregrinations around the convention floor, he was able to speak with Robert Wilson IV (artist of Knuckleheads), Jackie Cannon and Erik Reeves (writer and artist of Hoodratz in Space), creator Terry Moore (of Strangers in Paradise and Rachel Rising fame), Hunter S. Zombie (writer of Stillborn), Scott Chitwood (publisher of Red 5 Comics), Danny Allain and Paul Soileau (creator and publisher of Dead Reckoning), Dave Johnson (illustrator and cover artist for 100 Bullets), Amanda Conner (covers for My Little Pony and artist and co-writer of Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre), Kerry Gammill (publisher and editor-in-chief of Monsterverse Entertainment), and Steve Erwin (illustrator of the upcoming graphic novel version of Robert A. Heinlein’s Citizen of the Galaxy). It was a lot of fun all around — the artists, the celebrities, the cosplay, the weirdness — and in this Point One episode, Derek shares with you his talk with several fascinating individuals. Listen and enjoy, won’t you?

]]> 3837 no Episode 38 - A Review of On the Ropes and Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-38.mp3 This week Andy and Derek review two recent graphic novels, James Vance and Dan E. Burr’s On the Ropes and Matt Kindt’s Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes. As the Two Guys with PhDs make abundantly clear, both of these are incredible original works that are sure to end up on the guys’ year-end top ten lists. First, Andy and Derek discuss On the Ropes, a follow up to Vance and Burr’s original 1988-1989 miniseries, Kings in Disguise (Kitchen Sink Press, and latter published as a graphic novel in 1990). They discuss this earlier work, so as to set a context for the new book, and then go on to explore the ways in which On the Rope builds upon — and in some ways, even surpasses — the narrative reach of Kings in Disguise. If, as many critics have pointed out, Kings in Disguise is one of the seminal American graphic novels, then the latest collaboration between Vance and Burr is indeed a notable occasion. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes, one of the most ambitious works they’ve recently encountered. They discuss in detail the ways in which this book bears the “Matt Kindt stamp,” especially in its use of fragmented storytelling, the themes of crime and intrigue, the intertextual uses Kindt makes of comics history, and the text’s metafictional play, where the work itself becomes a blueprint for the way we read comics. As Derek and Andy both point out, Kindt is definitely on an upward trajectory, with each work getting more ambitious and impressive than the previous. The two guys wrap up with a brief summary of other things they are reading, such as 1980s Marvel comics and recent first and second issues from Image, including Sex, Lost Vegas, and Ten Grand. The jury is still out on some of those new titles. Wed, 22 May 2013 17:25:00 -0000 Reviews of On the Ropes and Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes full 38 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Story Pieces This week Andy and Derek review two recent graphic novels, James Vance and Dan E. Burr’s On the Ropes and Matt Kindt’s Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes. As the Two Guys with PhDs make abundantly clear, both of these are incredible original works that are sure to end up on the guys’ year-end top ten lists. First, Andy and Derek discuss On the Ropes, a follow up to Vance and Burr’s original 1988-1989 miniseries, Kings in Disguise (Kitchen Sink Press, and latter published as a graphic novel in 1990). They discuss this earlier work, so as to set a context for the new book, and then go on to explore the ways in which On the Rope builds upon — and in some ways, even surpasses — the narrative reach of Kings in Disguise. If, as many critics have pointed out, Kings in Disguise is one of the seminal American graphic novels, then the latest collaboration between Vance and Burr is indeed a notable occasion. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes, one of the most ambitious works they’ve recently encountered. They discuss in detail the ways in which this book bears the “Matt Kindt stamp,” especially in its use of fragmented storytelling, the themes of crime and intrigue, the intertextual uses Kindt makes of comics history, and the text’s metafictional play, where the work itself becomes a blueprint for the way we read comics. As Derek and Andy both point out, Kindt is definitely on an upward trajectory, with each work getting more ambitious and impressive than the previous. The two guys wrap up with a brief summary of other things they are reading, such as 1980s Marvel comics and recent first and second issues from Image, including Sex, Lost Vegas, and Ten Grand. The jury is still out on some of those new titles. This week Andy and Derek review two recent graphic novels, James Vance and Dan E. Burr’s On the Ropes and Matt Kindt’s Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes. As the Two Guys with PhDs make abundantly clear, both of these are incredible original works that are sure to end up on the guys’ year-end top ten lists. First, Andy and Derek discuss On the Ropes, a follow up to Vance and Burr’s original 1988-1989 miniseries, Kings in Disguise (Kitchen Sink Press, and latter published as a graphic novel in 1990). They discuss this earlier work, so as to set a context for the new book, and then go on to explore the ways in which On the Rope builds upon — and in some ways, even surpasses — the narrative reach of Kings in Disguise. If, as many critics have pointed out, Kings in Disguise is one of the seminal American graphic novels, then the latest collaboration between Vance and Burr is indeed a notable occasion. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes, one of the most ambitious works they’ve recently encountered. They discuss in detail the ways in which this book bears the “Matt Kindt stamp,” especially in its use of fragmented storytelling, the themes of crime and intrigue, the intertextual uses Kindt makes of comics history, and the text’s metafictional play, where the work itself becomes a blueprint for the way we read comics. As Derek and Andy both point out, Kindt is definitely on an upward trajectory, with each work getting more ambitious and impressive than the previous. The two guys wrap up with a brief summary of other things they are reading, such as 1980s Marvel comics and recent first and second issues from Image, including Sex, Lost Vegas, and Ten Grand. The jury is still out on some of those new titles.

]]> 5234 no Episode 37 - An Interview with Rick Geary http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-37.mp3 In this week’s episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek interview acclaimed artist Rick Geary. His new book, A Treasury of Victorian Murder Compendium, Vol. 1, was recently released by NBM Publishing. In it, you’ll find some of Rick’s Victorian murder classics, such as The Crimes of Dr. E.W. Prithard, The Fatal Bullet, The Beast of Chicago, and of course Jack the Ripper. The Two Guys with PhDs talk with Rick about his line of murder story comics — Victorian era as well as 20th-century — his meticulous research when preparing for each project, his strategies for storytelling and how he frames his narratives, and his fascination with crimes and unsolved mysteries. They also ask Rick about his many adaptations, translating into comics form such classics as Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations, O. Henry’s “The Marionettes,” Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Copper Beeches,” and Mark Twain’s The Mysterious Stranger. Rick also talks about some of his work in other genres, including all-age comics such as Gumby and graphic biographies on the lives of Leon Trotsky and J. Edgar Hoover. All in all, Andy and Derek have a great time talking with Rick and are reminded, yet again, of why they keep gravitating back to his art again and again. Wed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 -0000 An Interview with Rick Geary full 37 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Murder He Wrote In this week’s episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek interview acclaimed artist Rick Geary. His new book, A Treasury of Victorian Murder Compendium, Vol. 1, was recently released by NBM Publishing. In it, you’ll find some of Rick’s Victorian murder classics, such as The Crimes of Dr. E.W. Prithard, The Fatal Bullet, The Beast of Chicago, and of course Jack the Ripper. The Two Guys with PhDs talk with Rick about his line of murder story comics — Victorian era as well as 20th-century — his meticulous research when preparing for each project, his strategies for storytelling and how he frames his narratives, and his fascination with crimes and unsolved mysteries. They also ask Rick about his many adaptations, translating into comics form such classics as Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations, O. Henry’s “The Marionettes,” Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Copper Beeches,” and Mark Twain’s The Mysterious Stranger. Rick also talks about some of his work in other genres, including all-age comics such as Gumby and graphic biographies on the lives of Leon Trotsky and J. Edgar Hoover. All in all, Andy and Derek have a great time talking with Rick and are reminded, yet again, of why they keep gravitating back to his art again and again. In this week’s episode of The Comics Alternative, Andy and Derek interview acclaimed artist Rick Geary. His new book, A Treasury of Victorian Murder Compendium, Vol. 1, was recently released by NBM Publishing. In it, you’ll find some of Rick’s Victorian murder classics, such as The Crimes of Dr. E.W. Prithard, The Fatal Bullet, The Beast of Chicago, and of course Jack the Ripper. The Two Guys with PhDs talk with Rick about his line of murder story comics — Victorian era as well as 20th-century — his meticulous research when preparing for each project, his strategies for storytelling and how he frames his narratives, and his fascination with crimes and unsolved mysteries. They also ask Rick about his many adaptations, translating into comics form such classics as Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations, O. Henry’s “The Marionettes,” Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Copper Beeches,” and Mark Twain’s The Mysterious Stranger. Rick also talks about some of his work in other genres, including all-age comics such as Gumby and graphic biographies on the lives of Leon Trotsky and J. Edgar Hoover. All in all, Andy and Derek have a great time talking with Rick and are reminded, yet again, of why they keep gravitating back to his art again and again.

]]> 4797 no Episode 36.1 - FCBD Panel Discussion at Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-36-1.mp3 This past Saturday, Free Comic Book Day, Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, sponsored a panel discussion on the current state of American comics. He invited a variety of individuals from different backgrounds and with different perspectives, but all participating in the field of comics in some form or another. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were invited to take part in this event. Unfortunately, Andy couldn’t make it, but Derek was able to be there and provide his two or three cents. Joining Derek on the panel were Scott Fane, one of the writers from the blog Comical Musings; Chris Danger from live pop culture broadcast SCNS:Live; Brent Erwin, the Chief Operating Officer and one of the founders of Ape Entertainment; and Hunter S. Zombie, the writer of the indy title, Stillborn: The First Zombie.  Introducing the panel was Shea Hennum, the scheduling manager of Lone Star Comics in Plano and a friend of the show.  Shea got the ball rolling by asking the question, “Are we currently in a ‘golden age’ of comics?” What followed was a series of responses to that questions, insights and observations that led down several interesting paths. Much thanks to Rick Cromack, the manager of Lone Star Comics in Plano, for organizing this event. And a big thanks as well to Jason Dilworth, who helped us with the recording and who captured the panel discussion on video. Thu, 09 May 2013 13:30:00 -0000 FCBD Panel Discussion at Lone Star Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Are We Currently In a “Golden Age” of Comics? This past Saturday, Free Comic Book Day, Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, sponsored a panel discussion on the current state of American comics. He invited a variety of individuals from different backgrounds and with different perspectives, but all participating in the field of comics in some form or another. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were invited to take part in this event. Unfortunately, Andy couldn’t make it, but Derek was able to be there and provide his two or three cents. Joining Derek on the panel were Scott Fane, one of the writers from the blog Comical Musings; Chris Danger from live pop culture broadcast SCNS:Live; Brent Erwin, the Chief Operating Officer and one of the founders of Ape Entertainment; and Hunter S. Zombie, the writer of the indy title, Stillborn: The First Zombie.  Introducing the panel was Shea Hennum, the scheduling manager of Lone Star Comics in Plano and a friend of the show.  Shea got the ball rolling by asking the question, “Are we currently in a ‘golden age’ of comics?” What followed was a series of responses to that questions, insights and observations that led down several interesting paths. Much thanks to Rick Cromack, the manager of Lone Star Comics in Plano, for organizing this event. And a big thanks as well to Jason Dilworth, who helped us with the recording and who captured the panel discussion on video. This past Saturday, Free Comic Book Day, Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX, sponsored a panel discussion on the current state of American comics. He invited a variety of individuals from different backgrounds and with different perspectives, but all participating in the field of comics in some form or another. The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were invited to take part in this event. Unfortunately, Andy couldn’t make it, but Derek was able to be there and provide his two or three cents. Joining Derek on the panel were Scott Fane, one of the writers from the blog Comical Musings; Chris Danger from live pop culture broadcast SCNS:Live; Brent Erwin, the Chief Operating Officer and one of the founders of Ape Entertainment; and Hunter S. Zombie, the writer of the indy title, Stillborn: The First Zombie.  Introducing the panel was Shea Hennum, the scheduling manager of Lone Star Comics in Plano and a friend of the show.  Shea got the ball rolling by asking the question, “Are we currently in a ‘golden age’ of comics?” What followed was a series of responses to that questions, insights and observations that led down several interesting paths. Much thanks to Rick Cromack, the manager of Lone Star Comics in Plano, for organizing this event. And a big thanks as well to Jason Dilworth, who helped us with the recording and who captured the panel discussion on video.

]]> 4092 no Episode 36 - The May Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-36.mp3 Despite its nefarious subtitle, this week’s episode of The Comics Alternative is all-age friendly! In it you’ll hear Andy and Derek discuss the shapely offerings in the May Previews catalog. They highlight the various sexy solicits from Dark Horse (Smoke/Ashes, The Best of Milligan and McCarthy, Sin Titulo, and Gamma), curvaceous tomes from DC/Vertigo (Batman ’66, Collider, Tom Strong and the Planet of Peril, and The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Ship That Sank Twice), come-hither titles from IDW (The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, Rocketeer/The Spirit: Pulp Friction!, Doctor Who, Series III, Vol. 2: The Eye of Ashaya), drool-inducing images from Image Comics (Satellite Sam, Ghoster, Sheltered, Kafka, and Masks and Mobsters), alluring visuals from Abrams (Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, Vol. 3: The Donner Dinner Party), exotic bodies of work from Action Lab Entertainment (Molly Danger and Skyward), bodacious books from Boom! Studios (Day Men, Adventure Time: Summer Special, and Adventure Time: Candy Capers), provocative forms from Conundrum Press (Paul Joins the Scouts), voluptuous offerings from Fantagraphics (Child of Tomorrow! and Other Stories, VIP: The Mad World of Virgil Partch, and The Daniel Clowes Reader), seductive stuff from First Second (The Death of Haggard West, Genius, and Templar), inviting packages from Improper Books (Porcelain: A Gothic Fairy Tale), arousing entertainment from Oni Press (Stumptown, Vol 2, and The Strangers), and titillating titles from Top Shelf (Monster on the Hill and God Is Disappointed in You). The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics then go off on a tangent involving racy manga, erotic art, and Internet porn. And they’re not proud of that fact. How did they reach this low point? You’ll have to listen to the podcast and learn that answer for yourself! Wed, 08 May 2013 13:30:00 -0000 The May Previews Catalog full 36 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Hey Kids! Porn! Despite its nefarious subtitle, this week’s episode of The Comics Alternative is all-age friendly! In it you’ll hear Andy and Derek discuss the shapely offerings in the May Previews catalog. They highlight the various sexy solicits from Dark Horse (Smoke/Ashes, The Best of Milligan and McCarthy, Sin Titulo, and Gamma), curvaceous tomes from DC/Vertigo (Batman ’66, Collider, Tom Strong and the Planet of Peril, and The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Ship That Sank Twice), come-hither titles from IDW (The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, Rocketeer/The Spirit: Pulp Friction!, Doctor Who, Series III, Vol. 2: The Eye of Ashaya), drool-inducing images from Image Comics (Satellite Sam, Ghoster, Sheltered, Kafka, and Masks and Mobsters), alluring visuals from Abrams (Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, Vol. 3: The Donner Dinner Party), exotic bodies of work from Action Lab Entertainment (Molly Danger and Skyward), bodacious books from Boom! Studios (Day Men, Adventure Time: Summer Special, and Adventure Time: Candy Capers), provocative forms from Conundrum Press (Paul Joins the Scouts), voluptuous offerings from Fantagraphics (Child of Tomorrow! and Other Stories, VIP: The Mad World of Virgil Partch, and The Daniel Clowes Reader), seductive stuff from First Second (The Death of Haggard West, Genius, and Templar), inviting packages from Improper Books (Porcelain: A Gothic Fairy Tale), arousing entertainment from Oni Press (Stumptown, Vol 2, and The Strangers), and titillating titles from Top Shelf (Monster on the Hill and God Is Disappointed in You). The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics then go off on a tangent involving racy manga, erotic art, and Internet porn. And they’re not proud of that fact. How did they reach this low point? You’ll have to listen to the podcast and learn that answer for yourself! Despite its nefarious subtitle, this week’s episode of The Comics Alternative is all-age friendly! In it you’ll hear Andy and Derek discuss the shapely offerings in the May Previews catalog. They highlight the various sexy solicits from Dark Horse (Smoke/Ashes, The Best of Milligan and McCarthy, Sin Titulo, and Gamma), curvaceous tomes from DC/Vertigo (Batman ’66, Collider, Tom Strong and the Planet of Peril, and The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Ship That Sank Twice), come-hither titles from IDW (The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, Rocketeer/The Spirit: Pulp Friction!, Doctor Who, Series III, Vol. 2: The Eye of Ashaya), drool-inducing images from Image Comics (Satellite Sam, Ghoster, Sheltered, Kafka, and Masks and Mobsters), alluring visuals from Abrams (Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, Vol. 3: The Donner Dinner Party), exotic bodies of work from Action Lab Entertainment (Molly Danger and Skyward), bodacious books from Boom! Studios (Day Men, Adventure Time: Summer Special, and Adventure Time: Candy Capers), provocative forms from Conundrum Press (Paul Joins the Scouts), voluptuous offerings from Fantagraphics (Child of Tomorrow! and Other Stories, VIP: The Mad World of Virgil Partch, and The Daniel Clowes Reader), seductive stuff from First Second (The Death of Haggard West, Genius, and Templar), inviting packages from Improper Books (Porcelain: A Gothic Fairy Tale), arousing entertainment from Oni Press (Stumptown, Vol 2, and The Strangers), and titillating titles from Top Shelf (Monster on the Hill and God Is Disappointed in You). The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics then go off on a tangent involving racy manga, erotic art, and Internet porn. And they’re not proud of that fact. How did they reach this low point? You’ll have to listen to the podcast and learn that answer for yourself!

]]> 5867 no Episode 35.1 - FCBD at Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-35-1.mp3 Free Comic Book Day was Saturday, May 4th, and the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX.  They spoke with staff and customers about what FCBD titles people were getting, which ones were going quickly, what was in some of their FCBD issues, and how publishers were making the best of this annual event.  Along the way they talked with a variety of folks, including aspiring comics writer Nick Bridwell, Jess from Rainbow Runners, Chris Danger from SCNS:Live (also on-location at Lone Star Comics), and of course their ol’ friend and the scheduling manager of the Plano Lone Star Comics, Shea Hennum.  (A young comics fan in a cool Superman outfit almost came by to talk with Andy and Derek, but he was spooked out at the last minute by Chris from SCNS:Live.)  The shop was packed with customers, and as a result, the Plano location of Lone Star Comics surpassed its previous single-day sales record!  On top of that, the city’s mayor, Phil Dyer, worked with the shop to declare May 4, 2013 official “Free Comic Book Day” in the city of Plano.  Later in the day, there was a panel discussion held at the store, including contributions from bloggers, podcasters, local artists, and publishers.  All of that and some damned good comics.  What  more could one ask for on FCBD? Listen to this special “Point One” episode and experience the fun! Sun, 05 May 2013 19:30:00 -0000 FCBD at Lone Star Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Free Comic Book Day! Free Comic Book Day was Saturday, May 4th, and the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX.  They spoke with staff and customers about what FCBD titles people were getting, which ones were going quickly, what was in some of their FCBD issues, and how publishers were making the best of this annual event.  Along the way they talked with a variety of folks, including aspiring comics writer Nick Bridwell, Jess from Rainbow Runners, Chris Danger from SCNS:Live (also on-location at Lone Star Comics), and of course their ol’ friend and the scheduling manager of the Plano Lone Star Comics, Shea Hennum.  (A young comics fan in a cool Superman outfit almost came by to talk with Andy and Derek, but he was spooked out at the last minute by Chris from SCNS:Live.)  The shop was packed with customers, and as a result, the Plano location of Lone Star Comics surpassed its previous single-day sales record!  On top of that, the city’s mayor, Phil Dyer, worked with the shop to declare May 4, 2013 official “Free Comic Book Day” in the city of Plano.  Later in the day, there was a panel discussion held at the store, including contributions from bloggers, podcasters, local artists, and publishers.  All of that and some damned good comics.  What  more could one ask for on FCBD? Listen to this special “Point One” episode and experience the fun! Free Comic Book Day was Saturday, May 4th, and the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics were at Lone Star Comics in Plano, TX.  They spoke with staff and customers about what FCBD titles people were getting, which ones were going quickly, what was in some of their FCBD issues, and how publishers were making the best of this annual event.  Along the way they talked with a variety of folks, including aspiring comics writer Nick Bridwell, Jess from Rainbow Runners, Chris Danger from SCNS:Live (also on-location at Lone Star Comics), and of course their ol’ friend and the scheduling manager of the Plano Lone Star Comics, Shea Hennum.  (A young comics fan in a cool Superman outfit almost came by to talk with Andy and Derek, but he was spooked out at the last minute by Chris from SCNS:Live.)  The shop was packed with customers, and as a result, the Plano location of Lone Star Comics surpassed its previous single-day sales record!  On top of that, the city’s mayor, Phil Dyer, worked with the shop to declare May 4, 2013 official “Free Comic Book Day” in the city of Plano.  Later in the day, there was a panel discussion held at the store, including contributions from bloggers, podcasters, local artists, and publishers.  All of that and some damned good comics.  What  more could one ask for on FCBD? Listen to this special “Point One” episode and experience the fun!

]]> 6570 no Episode 35 - Review of New #1s and a Discussion of the Eisner Award Nominees http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-35.mp3 This week Andy and Derek review three new #1 comics: the Vertigo anthology Time Warp, Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin’s The Private Eye (Panel Syndicate), and Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta’s East of West (Image Comics). They have their hands full with Time Warp, given the variety of quality creators and engaging narratives contained in this plus-sized issue, but they still find the time to look at two recent examples at genre bending. Vaughn and Martin’s The Private Eye is a futuristic detective/noir tale established on the premise that technology and social media have gone wrong. The Two Guys with PhDs note that this narrative has much in common with Y: The Last Man, another series based on a faulty cultural contingency. East of West, on the other hand, is a genre free-for-all, mashing up elements of sci-fi,westerns, alternative history, and apocalyptic narratives, and topped with a generous dollop of violent gore. It’s not a title for those with a queasy constitution. Andy and Derek then turn their attention to the recently announced nominees for the 2013 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards. They point out this year’s dearth of nominations for superhero-related titles and the sheer dominance of independent creators and smaller publishers on the list. In other words, the 2013 Eisner nominees are just up The Comics Alternative‘s alley, leading the Two Guys with PhDs to wonder if this year’s awards committee has been listening to and heeding the suggestions emanating from their weekly podcasts. Even if they haven’t, it’s clear that Andy and Derek have their fingers on some kind of pulse, and that The Comics Alternative is particularly poised to discuss the significance of this year’s Eisner’s nominations. There’s a lot of good, creamy comics stuff packed into this oversized episode — over two hours long! — and it’s sure to sit nicely on your shelf next to your collection of 1970s DC “giant” comics! Wed, 01 May 2013 22:00:00 -0000 Reviews of New #1s and a Discussion of the Eisner Award Nominees full 35 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy and Derek’s 100-Page Super Spectacular! This week Andy and Derek review three new #1 comics: the Vertigo anthology Time Warp, Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin’s The Private Eye (Panel Syndicate), and Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta’s East of West (Image Comics). They have their hands full with Time Warp, given the variety of quality creators and engaging narratives contained in this plus-sized issue, but they still find the time to look at two recent examples at genre bending. Vaughn and Martin’s The Private Eye is a futuristic detective/noir tale established on the premise that technology and social media have gone wrong. The Two Guys with PhDs note that this narrative has much in common with Y: The Last Man, another series based on a faulty cultural contingency. East of West, on the other hand, is a genre free-for-all, mashing up elements of sci-fi,westerns, alternative history, and apocalyptic narratives, and topped with a generous dollop of violent gore. It’s not a title for those with a queasy constitution. Andy and Derek then turn their attention to the recently announced nominees for the 2013 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards. They point out this year’s dearth of nominations for superhero-related titles and the sheer dominance of independent creators and smaller publishers on the list. In other words, the 2013 Eisner nominees are just up The Comics Alternative‘s alley, leading the Two Guys with PhDs to wonder if this year’s awards committee has been listening to and heeding the suggestions emanating from their weekly podcasts. Even if they haven’t, it’s clear that Andy and Derek have their fingers on some kind of pulse, and that The Comics Alternative is particularly poised to discuss the significance of this year’s Eisner’s nominations. There’s a lot of good, creamy comics stuff packed into this oversized episode — over two hours long! — and it’s sure to sit nicely on your shelf next to your collection of 1970s DC “giant” comics! This week Andy and Derek review three new #1 comics: the Vertigo anthology Time Warp, Brian K. Vaughan and Marcos Martin’s The Private Eye (Panel Syndicate), and Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta’s East of West (Image Comics). They have their hands full with Time Warp, given the variety of quality creators and engaging narratives contained in this plus-sized issue, but they still find the time to look at two recent examples at genre bending. Vaughn and Martin’s The Private Eye is a futuristic detective/noir tale established on the premise that technology and social media have gone wrong. The Two Guys with PhDs note that this narrative has much in common with Y: The Last Man, another series based on a faulty cultural contingency. East of West, on the other hand, is a genre free-for-all, mashing up elements of sci-fi,westerns, alternative history, and apocalyptic narratives, and topped with a generous dollop of violent gore. It’s not a title for those with a queasy constitution. Andy and Derek then turn their attention to the recently announced nominees for the 2013 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards. They point out this year’s dearth of nominations for superhero-related titles and the sheer dominance of independent creators and smaller publishers on the list. In other words, the 2013 Eisner nominees are just up The Comics Alternative‘s alley, leading the Two Guys with PhDs to wonder if this year’s awards committee has been listening to and heeding the suggestions emanating from their weekly podcasts. Even if they haven’t, it’s clear that Andy and Derek have their fingers on some kind of pulse, and that The Comics Alternative is particularly poised to discuss the significance of this year’s Eisner’s nominations. There’s a lot of good, creamy comics stuff packed into this oversized episode — over two hours long! — and it’s sure to sit nicely on your shelf next to your collection of 1970s DC “giant” comics!

]]> 7978 no Episode 34 - An Interview with Jamal Igle http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-34.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek interview Jamal Igle about his new project, Molly Danger. This is just in time for next week’s Free Comic Book Day, when Action Lab will include a preview of the first story arc in one of their FCBD issues. In their conversation, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Jamal about the genesis of Molly Danger, the need for more all-ages hero comics, the importance of strong and positive female role models in the medium, and the runaway success of the book’s Kickstarter campaign, which helped to make Molly Danger a reality. Jamal also talks with the guys about the format he’s chosen for the title, releasing Molly Danger in a multi-volume hardbound album format in the Franco-Belgian tradition, and he speculates on his future plans for the enigmatic Molly. Be sure to listen to this fascinating conversation and get the scoop on this new comic. This is one of those FBCD releases you’ll want to grab first as you make your way to your comics shop on May 4th! Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:00:00 -0000 An Interview with Jamal Igle full 34 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Molly Danger Has Arrived! This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek interview Jamal Igle about his new project, Molly Danger. This is just in time for next week’s Free Comic Book Day, when Action Lab will include a preview of the first story arc in one of their FCBD issues. In their conversation, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Jamal about the genesis of Molly Danger, the need for more all-ages hero comics, the importance of strong and positive female role models in the medium, and the runaway success of the book’s Kickstarter campaign, which helped to make Molly Danger a reality. Jamal also talks with the guys about the format he’s chosen for the title, releasing Molly Danger in a multi-volume hardbound album format in the Franco-Belgian tradition, and he speculates on his future plans for the enigmatic Molly. Be sure to listen to this fascinating conversation and get the scoop on this new comic. This is one of those FBCD releases you’ll want to grab first as you make your way to your comics shop on May 4th! This week on The Comics Alternative Andy and Derek interview Jamal Igle about his new project, Molly Danger. This is just in time for next week’s Free Comic Book Day, when Action Lab will include a preview of the first story arc in one of their FCBD issues. In their conversation, the Two Guys with PhDs talk with Jamal about the genesis of Molly Danger, the need for more all-ages hero comics, the importance of strong and positive female role models in the medium, and the runaway success of the book’s Kickstarter campaign, which helped to make Molly Danger a reality. Jamal also talks with the guys about the format he’s chosen for the title, releasing Molly Danger in a multi-volume hardbound album format in the Franco-Belgian tradition, and he speculates on his future plans for the enigmatic Molly. Be sure to listen to this fascinating conversation and get the scoop on this new comic. This is one of those FBCD releases you’ll want to grab first as you make your way to your comics shop on May 4th!

]]> 3709 no Episode 33 - Review of Comics about Cartoonists and Haunted Horror http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-33.mp3 This week on the podcast, Andy and Derek review two recent projects from the archival powerhouse that is Craig Yoe, Comics about Cartoonists: Stories about the World’s Oddest Profession, and the recent comic-book series Haunted Horror (both published through IDW Publishing). The first is a collection of strips and stories from around the turn of the century until the 1950s, drawn by a who’s who in the comics pantheon, and all taking on comics creators themselves as the subject matter. It’s a great work where you get to see artists poking fun at themselves, ridiculing their publishers and editors, and generally just having a good time with the comics industry as a whole. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to the first three issues of Haunted Horror.  This is another archival project from Yoe Studios!, but one that takes the form of an ongoing bimonthly series.  In each issue, Yoe presents several classic horror comics from the days before the Comics Code Authority, which means there’re plenty of monsters, undead creatures, gruesome murders, gross-out metamorphoses, and women in compromised and revealing poses (i.e., “headlight” drawings). In the midsts of all of this Yoe talk, Andy and Derek also find the time to discuss recent news from Podcastland, read mail from fans of the show, and wax nostalgic over post conference experiences. What you are about to listen to is yet another effort in the Two Guys with PhDs’ ongoing mission to educate, entertain, and amaze! That, as well as to use the podcast as an excuse to read more comics and talk about them. Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Comics about Cartoonists and Haunted Horror full 33 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Yoe Show This week on the podcast, Andy and Derek review two recent projects from the archival powerhouse that is Craig Yoe, Comics about Cartoonists: Stories about the World’s Oddest Profession, and the recent comic-book series Haunted Horror (both published through IDW Publishing). The first is a collection of strips and stories from around the turn of the century until the 1950s, drawn by a who’s who in the comics pantheon, and all taking on comics creators themselves as the subject matter. It’s a great work where you get to see artists poking fun at themselves, ridiculing their publishers and editors, and generally just having a good time with the comics industry as a whole. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to the first three issues of Haunted Horror.  This is another archival project from Yoe Studios!, but one that takes the form of an ongoing bimonthly series.  In each issue, Yoe presents several classic horror comics from the days before the Comics Code Authority, which means there’re plenty of monsters, undead creatures, gruesome murders, gross-out metamorphoses, and women in compromised and revealing poses (i.e., “headlight” drawings). In the midsts of all of this Yoe talk, Andy and Derek also find the time to discuss recent news from Podcastland, read mail from fans of the show, and wax nostalgic over post conference experiences. What you are about to listen to is yet another effort in the Two Guys with PhDs’ ongoing mission to educate, entertain, and amaze! That, as well as to use the podcast as an excuse to read more comics and talk about them. This week on the podcast, Andy and Derek review two recent projects from the archival powerhouse that is Craig Yoe, Comics about Cartoonists: Stories about the World’s Oddest Profession, and the recent comic-book series Haunted Horror (both published through IDW Publishing). The first is a collection of strips and stories from around the turn of the century until the 1950s, drawn by a who’s who in the comics pantheon, and all taking on comics creators themselves as the subject matter. It’s a great work where you get to see artists poking fun at themselves, ridiculing their publishers and editors, and generally just having a good time with the comics industry as a whole. Next, the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to the first three issues of Haunted Horror.  This is another archival project from Yoe Studios!, but one that takes the form of an ongoing bimonthly series.  In each issue, Yoe presents several classic horror comics from the days before the Comics Code Authority, which means there’re plenty of monsters, undead creatures, gruesome murders, gross-out metamorphoses, and women in compromised and revealing poses (i.e., “headlight” drawings). In the midsts of all of this Yoe talk, Andy and Derek also find the time to discuss recent news from Podcastland, read mail from fans of the show, and wax nostalgic over post conference experiences. What you are about to listen to is yet another effort in the Two Guys with PhDs’ ongoing mission to educate, entertain, and amaze! That, as well as to use the podcast as an excuse to read more comics and talk about them.

]]> 6030 no Episode 32 - Review of The Massive Vol. 1 and Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-32.mp3 This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Andy and Derek review the first collected trade of Brian Wood, Kristian Donaldson, and Gary Brown’s The Massive (Dark Horse Comics) as well as issue #1 of Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, by Frank J. Barbiere and Chris Mooneyham (Image Comics). The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) bring their critical acumen to the functions of narrative time in The Massive, the significance of its character makeup, and the book’s thematic place within Brian Wood’s oeuvre. Plus, they think The Massive is really cool! Then the two guys turn their attention to Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, discussing the title’s “literary ghosts” (and curious as to how ghosts can be literary) and wondering if, in the next couple of issues of the comic, Barbiere will succumb to the traditional trappings of colonialist narrative. Stay tuned, dear listeners! Andy and Derek also talk about Kickstarter and ponder over the possibility of poor academics, needing money to do sustained research, getting in on the act. Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:00:00 -0000 Reviews of The Massive Vol. 1 and Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray full 32 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Show That Makes Up Its Own Adjectives This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Andy and Derek review the first collected trade of Brian Wood, Kristian Donaldson, and Gary Brown’s The Massive (Dark Horse Comics) as well as issue #1 of Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, by Frank J. Barbiere and Chris Mooneyham (Image Comics). The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) bring their critical acumen to the functions of narrative time in The Massive, the significance of its character makeup, and the book’s thematic place within Brian Wood’s oeuvre. Plus, they think The Massive is really cool! Then the two guys turn their attention to Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, discussing the title’s “literary ghosts” (and curious as to how ghosts can be literary) and wondering if, in the next couple of issues of the comic, Barbiere will succumb to the traditional trappings of colonialist narrative. Stay tuned, dear listeners! Andy and Derek also talk about Kickstarter and ponder over the possibility of poor academics, needing money to do sustained research, getting in on the act. This week on The Comics Alternative podcast, Andy and Derek review the first collected trade of Brian Wood, Kristian Donaldson, and Gary Brown’s The Massive (Dark Horse Comics) as well as issue #1 of Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, by Frank J. Barbiere and Chris Mooneyham (Image Comics). The Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) bring their critical acumen to the functions of narrative time in The Massive, the significance of its character makeup, and the book’s thematic place within Brian Wood’s oeuvre. Plus, they think The Massive is really cool! Then the two guys turn their attention to Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, discussing the title’s “literary ghosts” (and curious as to how ghosts can be literary) and wondering if, in the next couple of issues of the comic, Barbiere will succumb to the traditional trappings of colonialist narrative. Stay tuned, dear listeners! Andy and Derek also talk about Kickstarter and ponder over the possibility of poor academics, needing money to do sustained research, getting in on the act.

]]> 5639 no Episode 31 - The April Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-31.mp3 This week Andy and Derek flip through the April Previews catalog, highlighting the various comic books, collections, and original graphic novels solicited this month.  They point out a variety of upcoming titles such as Dark Horse’s The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys and Battlepug, DC/Vertigo’s 100 Bullets: Brother Lono and The Sandman Omnibus Volume 1,  IDW’s Edison Rex, Image Comic’s Lazarus and Infinite Vacation, Archaia’s Rubicon, Boom! Studio’s Six-Gun Gorilla, Dynamite’s Uncanny, and new collections on the works of Steve Ditko (two of them!), Jack Cole, and Al Feldstein. As what usually happens, their discussions of the comics takes them down curious and sundry avenues, some on-topic, some tangential, and some way the hell off course.  But keen insights and fun pop culture talk is guaranteed for all! Wed, 03 Apr 2013 22:00:00 -0000 The April Previews Catalog full 31 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Gorillas with Guns This week Andy and Derek flip through the April Previews catalog, highlighting the various comic books, collections, and original graphic novels solicited this month.  They point out a variety of upcoming titles such as Dark Horse’s The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys and Battlepug, DC/Vertigo’s 100 Bullets: Brother Lono and The Sandman Omnibus Volume 1,  IDW’s Edison Rex, Image Comic’s Lazarus and Infinite Vacation, Archaia’s Rubicon, Boom! Studio’s Six-Gun Gorilla, Dynamite’s Uncanny, and new collections on the works of Steve Ditko (two of them!), Jack Cole, and Al Feldstein. As what usually happens, their discussions of the comics takes them down curious and sundry avenues, some on-topic, some tangential, and some way the hell off course.  But keen insights and fun pop culture talk is guaranteed for all! This week Andy and Derek flip through the April Previews catalog, highlighting the various comic books, collections, and original graphic novels solicited this month.  They point out a variety of upcoming titles such as Dark Horse’s The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys and Battlepug, DC/Vertigo’s 100 Bullets: Brother Lono and The Sandman Omnibus Volume 1,  IDW’s Edison Rex, Image Comic’s Lazarus and Infinite Vacation, Archaia’s Rubicon, Boom! Studio’s Six-Gun Gorilla, Dynamite’s Uncanny, and new collections on the works of Steve Ditko (two of them!), Jack Cole, and Al Feldstein. As what usually happens, their discussions of the comics takes them down curious and sundry avenues, some on-topic, some tangential, and some way the hell off course.  But keen insights and fun pop culture talk is guaranteed for all!

]]> 6047 no Episode 30.1 - Another Visit to Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-30-1.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics make another visit to Lone Star Comics in Plano, Texas. There they talk with the location’s scheduling manager, Shea Hennum, about general comics news.  The conversation is free-flowing and engaging, with topics including the recent “banning” of Persepolis for seventh graders in Chicago, Superman‘s Orson Scott Card problem, indy creators and all-age comics, mature titles on Lone Star Comics’ shelves, the impact of The Walking Dead television show and other comics-based TV series, the current impressive wave of Image Comics, and Brian K. Vaughn and Marcos Martin’s new digital experiment, The Private Eye. Shea also reveals to Andy and Derek how The Comics Alternative saved his life while riding the subways in New York. What better endorsement can a podcast get? Be sure not to miss this new “point one” show on location at Lone Star Comics, something that will now be a monthly feature. Mark your calendars! Fri, 29 Mar 2013 18:45:00 -0000 Another Visit to Lone Star Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Another Point One Episode The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics make another visit to Lone Star Comics in Plano, Texas. There they talk with the location’s scheduling manager, Shea Hennum, about general comics news.  The conversation is free-flowing and engaging, with topics including the recent “banning” of Persepolis for seventh graders in Chicago, Superman‘s Orson Scott Card problem, indy creators and all-age comics, mature titles on Lone Star Comics’ shelves, the impact of The Walking Dead television show and other comics-based TV series, the current impressive wave of Image Comics, and Brian K. Vaughn and Marcos Martin’s new digital experiment, The Private Eye. Shea also reveals to Andy and Derek how The Comics Alternative saved his life while riding the subways in New York. What better endorsement can a podcast get? Be sure not to miss this new “point one” show on location at Lone Star Comics, something that will now be a monthly feature. Mark your calendars! The Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics make another visit to Lone Star Comics in Plano, Texas. There they talk with the location’s scheduling manager, Shea Hennum, about general comics news.  The conversation is free-flowing and engaging, with topics including the recent “banning” of Persepolis for seventh graders in Chicago, Superman‘s Orson Scott Card problem, indy creators and all-age comics, mature titles on Lone Star Comics’ shelves, the impact of The Walking Dead television show and other comics-based TV series, the current impressive wave of Image Comics, and Brian K. Vaughn and Marcos Martin’s new digital experiment, The Private Eye. Shea also reveals to Andy and Derek how The Comics Alternative saved his life while riding the subways in New York. What better endorsement can a podcast get? Be sure not to miss this new “point one” show on location at Lone Star Comics, something that will now be a monthly feature. Mark your calendars!

]]> 4551 no Episode 30 - Review of Hellraisers, Helheim, and Constantine http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-30.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics return with another one of their regular review shows, this one focusing on the new graphic biography from SelfMadeHero, Hellraisers, written by Robert Sellers and illustrated by JAKe, and Helheim #1 from the creative team of Cullen Bunn and Joëlle Jones, and published by Oni Press. Hollywood alcoholic celebrities and supernatural vikings…two tastes that go great together! They also follow up on their recent foray into John Constantine by critiquing Jeff Lemire and Ray Fawkes’s Constantine #1, and overall, both guys are cautiously optimistic about Constantine’s new home in the DC Universe. Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 -0000 Reviews of Hellraisers, Helheim, and Constantine full 30 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "We've got a whole lotta Hell today." This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics return with another one of their regular review shows, this one focusing on the new graphic biography from SelfMadeHero, Hellraisers, written by Robert Sellers and illustrated by JAKe, and Helheim #1 from the creative team of Cullen Bunn and Joëlle Jones, and published by Oni Press. Hollywood alcoholic celebrities and supernatural vikings…two tastes that go great together! They also follow up on their recent foray into John Constantine by critiquing Jeff Lemire and Ray Fawkes’s Constantine #1, and overall, both guys are cautiously optimistic about Constantine’s new home in the DC Universe. This week the Two Guys with PhDs Talking about Comics return with another one of their regular review shows, this one focusing on the new graphic biography from SelfMadeHero, Hellraisers, written by Robert Sellers and illustrated by JAKe, and Helheim #1 from the creative team of Cullen Bunn and Joëlle Jones, and published by Oni Press. Hollywood alcoholic celebrities and supernatural vikings…two tastes that go great together! They also follow up on their recent foray into John Constantine by critiquing Jeff Lemire and Ray Fawkes’s Constantine #1, and overall, both guys are cautiously optimistic about Constantine’s new home in the DC Universe.

]]> 6129 no Episode 29 - Recent Crime, Detective, and Noir Comics, Part II http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-29.mp3 his week the Two Guys with PhDs return with the second of their two-episode look at recent crime, detective, and noir comics. In this installment, they begin with a discussion of more conventional detective/crime comics and then turn their gaze to noir with a psychological twist, where the protagonist's mental condition creates confusion and uncertainty. Regarding the former, Derek and Andy look specifically at From the Files of...Mike Hammer: The Complete Dailies and Sundays, Greg Rucka and Matthew Southworth’s Stumptown, Roger Gibson and Vince Danks's Harker: The Book of Solomon, Andy Diggle and Jock’s first issue of Snapshot, and Jay Faerber and Koray Kuranel's Point of Impact.  Next, they segue to several recent examples of psychological noir, including Jay Faerber and Simone Guglielmini's Near Death, Grant Morrison and Darick Robertson's mini-series Happy!, Nathan Edmondson and Tonci Zonjic's Who Is Jake Ellis? and the first two issues of Where Is Jake Ellis?, and Joshua Hale Fialkov and Noel Tuazon's graphic novel Tumor. Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:00:00 -0000 Recent Crime, Detective, and Noir Comics, Part II full 29 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Watching the Detectives his week the Two Guys with PhDs return with the second of their two-episode look at recent crime, detective, and noir comics. In this installment, they begin with a discussion of more conventional detective/crime comics and then turn their gaze to noir with a psychological twist, where the protagonist's mental condition creates confusion and uncertainty. Regarding the former, Derek and Andy look specifically at From the Files of...Mike Hammer: The Complete Dailies and Sundays, Greg Rucka and Matthew Southworth’s Stumptown, Roger Gibson and Vince Danks's Harker: The Book of Solomon, Andy Diggle and Jock’s first issue of Snapshot, and Jay Faerber and Koray Kuranel's Point of Impact.  Next, they segue to several recent examples of psychological noir, including Jay Faerber and Simone Guglielmini's Near Death, Grant Morrison and Darick Robertson's mini-series Happy!, Nathan Edmondson and Tonci Zonjic's Who Is Jake Ellis? and the first two issues of Where Is Jake Ellis?, and Joshua Hale Fialkov and Noel Tuazon's graphic novel Tumor. his week the Two Guys with PhDs return with the second of their two-episode look at recent crime, detective, and noir comics. In this installment, they begin with a discussion of more conventional detective/crime comics and then turn their gaze to noir with a psychological twist, where the protagonist's mental condition creates confusion and uncertainty. Regarding the former, Derek and Andy look specifically at From the Files of...Mike Hammer: The Complete Dailies and Sundays, Greg Rucka and Matthew Southworth’s Stumptown, Roger Gibson and Vince Danks's Harker: The Book of Solomon, Andy Diggle and Jock’s first issue of Snapshot, and Jay Faerber and Koray Kuranel's Point of Impact.  Next, they segue to several recent examples of psychological noir, including Jay Faerber and Simone Guglielmini's Near Death, Grant Morrison and Darick Robertson's mini-series Happy!, Nathan Edmondson and Tonci Zonjic's Who Is Jake Ellis? and the first two issues of Where Is Jake Ellis?, and Joshua Hale Fialkov and Noel Tuazon's graphic novel Tumor.

]]> 5903 no Episode 28 - An Interview with Ben Katchor http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-28.mp3 This week, Derek and Andy talk with Ben Katchor, an award-winning cartoonist who has also worked in musical theater and is currently an associate professor of illustration at Parsons the New School of Design.  His new book, Hand-Drying in America and Other Stories, came out last week from Pantheon Books. It's a phenomenal work collecting strips that were originally published in the architectural and design magazine, Metropolis, between 1998 to 2012. In their conversation with Ben, the Two Guys with PhDs ask the artist about the design and packaging of  Hand-Drying in America, how his new book differs from his earlier collections, what he sees as the current state of comics publishing, the difference between his work in Metropolis and his ongoing serialized strips, and how his picture stories underscore the layout and strictures of urban life. Wed, 13 Mar 2013 15:00:00 -0000 An Interview with Ben Katchor full 28 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Where the user hits the maker, there's a lot of drama to explore." This week, Derek and Andy talk with Ben Katchor, an award-winning cartoonist who has also worked in musical theater and is currently an associate professor of illustration at Parsons the New School of Design.  His new book, Hand-Drying in America and Other Stories, came out last week from Pantheon Books. It's a phenomenal work collecting strips that were originally published in the architectural and design magazine, Metropolis, between 1998 to 2012. In their conversation with Ben, the Two Guys with PhDs ask the artist about the design and packaging of  Hand-Drying in America, how his new book differs from his earlier collections, what he sees as the current state of comics publishing, the difference between his work in Metropolis and his ongoing serialized strips, and how his picture stories underscore the layout and strictures of urban life. This week, Derek and Andy talk with Ben Katchor, an award-winning cartoonist who has also worked in musical theater and is currently an associate professor of illustration at Parsons the New School of Design.  His new book, Hand-Drying in America and Other Stories, came out last week from Pantheon Books. It's a phenomenal work collecting strips that were originally published in the architectural and design magazine, Metropolis, between 1998 to 2012. In their conversation with Ben, the Two Guys with PhDs ask the artist about the design and packaging of  Hand-Drying in America, how his new book differs from his earlier collections, what he sees as the current state of comics publishing, the difference between his work in Metropolis and his ongoing serialized strips, and how his picture stories underscore the layout and strictures of urban life.

]]> 4668 no Episode 27 - The March Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-27.mp3 This week the Two Guys with (easy) PhDs take their monthly stroll through the pages of the new Previews catalog.  They mention how jam-packed the March Previews is, filled with more promising comics than humans should be allowed. Among the many titles catching the guys’ (easy) PhD-trained minds are the new Mister X mini-series, Richard Corben’s adaptation of The Fall of the House of Usher, the 10th anniversary edition of Fagin the Jew, The Green Team, The Movement, The Wake, Promethea: The Immateria Edition from DC/Vertigo, Ten Grand, The Dream Merchant, Jim Rigg’s Supermag, Chris Northrop and Jeff Stokely’s The Reason for Dragons, Brenda Starr: The Complete Pre-Code Comic Books, Vol. 1, Gilbert Hernandez’s Marble Season, Matt Kindt’s Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes, Jim Woodring’s Fran, The Metabarons: The Ultimate Collection, Mike Carey’s Suicide Risk, and two exciting titles from a brand new publisher, Black Mask Studios. Two Guys with (easy) PhDs also observe some weirdness in their iTunes reviews. Thu, 07 Mar 2013 03:00:00 -0000 The March Previews Catalog full 27 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal iTunes Reviews and You This week the Two Guys with (easy) PhDs take their monthly stroll through the pages of the new Previews catalog.  They mention how jam-packed the March Previews is, filled with more promising comics than humans should be allowed. Among the many titles catching the guys’ (easy) PhD-trained minds are the new Mister X mini-series, Richard Corben’s adaptation of The Fall of the House of Usher, the 10th anniversary edition of Fagin the Jew, The Green Team, The Movement, The Wake, Promethea: The Immateria Edition from DC/Vertigo, Ten Grand, The Dream Merchant, Jim Rigg’s Supermag, Chris Northrop and Jeff Stokely’s The Reason for Dragons, Brenda Starr: The Complete Pre-Code Comic Books, Vol. 1, Gilbert Hernandez’s Marble Season, Matt Kindt’s Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes, Jim Woodring’s Fran, The Metabarons: The Ultimate Collection, Mike Carey’s Suicide Risk, and two exciting titles from a brand new publisher, Black Mask Studios. Two Guys with (easy) PhDs also observe some weirdness in their iTunes reviews. This week the Two Guys with (easy) PhDs take their monthly stroll through the pages of the new Previews catalog.  They mention how jam-packed the March Previews is, filled with more promising comics than humans should be allowed. Among the many titles catching the guys’ (easy) PhD-trained minds are the new Mister X mini-series, Richard Corben’s adaptation of The Fall of the House of Usher, the 10th anniversary edition of Fagin the Jew, The Green Team, The Movement, The Wake, Promethea: The Immateria Edition from DC/Vertigo, Ten Grand, The Dream Merchant, Jim Rigg’s Supermag, Chris Northrop and Jeff Stokely’s The Reason for Dragons, Brenda Starr: The Complete Pre-Code Comic Books, Vol. 1, Gilbert Hernandez’s Marble Season, Matt Kindt’s Red Handed: The Fine Art of Strange Crimes, Jim Woodring’s Fran, The Metabarons: The Ultimate Collection, Mike Carey’s Suicide Risk, and two exciting titles from a brand new publisher, Black Mask Studios. Two Guys with (easy) PhDs also observe some weirdness in their iTunes reviews.

]]> 5882 yes Episode 26 - Goodbye Hellblazer, Hello Constantine! http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-26.mp3 This week the Two Guys with PhDs eulogize the recently ended Hellblazer series and the publication of its 300th issue.  This is a sad occasion, since both Andy and Derek love Hellblazer, but at the same time both are generally pleased with how the series ended.  In this episode the two guys spend a lot of time discussing the impact and the legacy of John Constantine, his place in both the Vertigo line and the DC Universe, the strengths and shortcomings of the newer, younger Constatine in Justice League Dark, and they also speculate on the new title, Constantine, and what that might be. In addition, Andy succinctly encapsulates Brian Azzarello's run on Hellblazer with canine acuity. Fri, 01 Mar 2013 16:45:00 -0000 Goodbye Hellblazer, Hello Constantine! full 26 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Constantine Gets Blown by a Dog" This week the Two Guys with PhDs eulogize the recently ended Hellblazer series and the publication of its 300th issue.  This is a sad occasion, since both Andy and Derek love Hellblazer, but at the same time both are generally pleased with how the series ended.  In this episode the two guys spend a lot of time discussing the impact and the legacy of John Constantine, his place in both the Vertigo line and the DC Universe, the strengths and shortcomings of the newer, younger Constatine in Justice League Dark, and they also speculate on the new title, Constantine, and what that might be. In addition, Andy succinctly encapsulates Brian Azzarello's run on Hellblazer with canine acuity. This week the Two Guys with PhDs eulogize the recently ended Hellblazer series and the publication of its 300th issue.  This is a sad occasion, since both Andy and Derek love Hellblazer, but at the same time both are generally pleased with how the series ended.  In this episode the two guys spend a lot of time discussing the impact and the legacy of John Constantine, his place in both the Vertigo line and the DC Universe, the strengths and shortcomings of the newer, younger Constatine in Justice League Dark, and they also speculate on the new title, Constantine, and what that might be. In addition, Andy succinctly encapsulates Brian Azzarello's run on Hellblazer with canine acuity.

]]> 5729 yes Episode 26.1 - Talking Hellblazer at Lone Star Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-26-1.mp3 This is the first of what will become a monthly supplement to our regular episodes of The Comics Alternative: an on-location recording at Lone Star Comics in Plano, Texas.  On this inaugural outing, Derek discusses the final issue of Hellblazer with Lone Star Comics associate and all-around John Constantine expert, Shea Hennum. Over the course of their discussion, Shea and Derek — unfortunately, Andy is unable to join the talk — look back at the history of the title, its significance in the Vertigo line of comics, and how the character of Constantine has evolved through the hands of a variety of writers and artists.  They also plunge into other topics such as the New 52, manga, the Franco-Belgian tradition, and customers of Lone Star Comics who are too paranoid to share their opinions on the podcast.  Finally, they are joined by the location’s manager, Rick Cromack, and from there the discussion becomes a strange, fun, rapid-fire, free-for-all. Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:00:00 -0000 Talking Hellblazer at Lone Star Comics full Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Our First Point One Episode This is the first of what will become a monthly supplement to our regular episodes of The Comics Alternative: an on-location recording at Lone Star Comics in Plano, Texas.  On this inaugural outing, Derek discusses the final issue of Hellblazer with Lone Star Comics associate and all-around John Constantine expert, Shea Hennum. Over the course of their discussion, Shea and Derek — unfortunately, Andy is unable to join the talk — look back at the history of the title, its significance in the Vertigo line of comics, and how the character of Constantine has evolved through the hands of a variety of writers and artists.  They also plunge into other topics such as the New 52, manga, the Franco-Belgian tradition, and customers of Lone Star Comics who are too paranoid to share their opinions on the podcast.  Finally, they are joined by the location’s manager, Rick Cromack, and from there the discussion becomes a strange, fun, rapid-fire, free-for-all. This is the first of what will become a monthly supplement to our regular episodes of The Comics Alternative: an on-location recording at Lone Star Comics in Plano, Texas.  On this inaugural outing, Derek discusses the final issue of Hellblazer with Lone Star Comics associate and all-around John Constantine expert, Shea Hennum. Over the course of their discussion, Shea and Derek — unfortunately, Andy is unable to join the talk — look back at the history of the title, its significance in the Vertigo line of comics, and how the character of Constantine has evolved through the hands of a variety of writers and artists.  They also plunge into other topics such as the New 52, manga, the Franco-Belgian tradition, and customers of Lone Star Comics who are too paranoid to share their opinions on the podcast.  Finally, they are joined by the location’s manager, Rick Cromack, and from there the discussion becomes a strange, fun, rapid-fire, free-for-all.

]]> 5796 no Episode 25 - Recent Crime, Detective, and Noir Comics, Part I http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-25.mp3 This week Andy and Derek begin what will be a two-episode look at recent crime, detective, and noir comics. In this first installment, they discuss two general kinds of of these comics: heist/caper and unconventional noir.  With the former, the Two Guys with PhDs look specifically at Robert Kirkman, Nick Spencer, James Asmus, and Shawn Martinbrough’s Thief of Thieves; Gary Phillip and Marc Laming’s The Rinse; and Howard Chaykin’s Marked Man.  Next, they turn their focus to several unconventional comics that blend genres and narrative styles in interesting ways.  These titles include Chaykin’s Black Kiss II, Ed Brubacker and Sean Phillips’s Fatale, Victor Quinaz and Brent Schoonover’s Mr. Murder Is Dead, and Joe Grahn and Carl Yonder’s Pirate Eye. Wed, 20 Feb 2013 08:30:00 -0000 Recent Crime, Detective, and Noir Comics, Part I full 25 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "A lot fewer severed penises" This week Andy and Derek begin what will be a two-episode look at recent crime, detective, and noir comics. In this first installment, they discuss two general kinds of of these comics: heist/caper and unconventional noir.  With the former, the Two Guys with PhDs look specifically at Robert Kirkman, Nick Spencer, James Asmus, and Shawn Martinbrough’s Thief of Thieves; Gary Phillip and Marc Laming’s The Rinse; and Howard Chaykin’s Marked Man.  Next, they turn their focus to several unconventional comics that blend genres and narrative styles in interesting ways.  These titles include Chaykin’s Black Kiss II, Ed Brubacker and Sean Phillips’s Fatale, Victor Quinaz and Brent Schoonover’s Mr. Murder Is Dead, and Joe Grahn and Carl Yonder’s Pirate Eye. This week Andy and Derek begin what will be a two-episode look at recent crime, detective, and noir comics. In this first installment, they discuss two general kinds of of these comics: heist/caper and unconventional noir.  With the former, the Two Guys with PhDs look specifically at Robert Kirkman, Nick Spencer, James Asmus, and Shawn Martinbrough’s Thief of Thieves; Gary Phillip and Marc Laming’s The Rinse; and Howard Chaykin’s Marked Man.  Next, they turn their focus to several unconventional comics that blend genres and narrative styles in interesting ways.  These titles include Chaykin’s Black Kiss II, Ed Brubacker and Sean Phillips’s Fatale, Victor Quinaz and Brent Schoonover’s Mr. Murder Is Dead, and Joe Grahn and Carl Yonder’s Pirate Eye.

]]> 6378 no Episode 24 - A Review of So Buttons http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-24.mp3 This week Andy and Derek review issues 4 and 5 of the mini-comic So Buttons, the creation of writer Jonathan Baylis and a whole slew of artists.  In their discussion the Two Guys with PhDs draw connections between Baylis’s work and that of other autobiographical comics writers, such as Harvey Pekar and Jeffrey Brown, and highlight some of the strategies that make So Buttons work.  All of this eventually leads to comments on NPR, war films, and dead birds. Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:30:00 -0000 Review of So Buttons full 24 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Dead Birds and NPR This week Andy and Derek review issues 4 and 5 of the mini-comic So Buttons, the creation of writer Jonathan Baylis and a whole slew of artists.  In their discussion the Two Guys with PhDs draw connections between Baylis’s work and that of other autobiographical comics writers, such as Harvey Pekar and Jeffrey Brown, and highlight some of the strategies that make So Buttons work.  All of this eventually leads to comments on NPR, war films, and dead birds. This week Andy and Derek review issues 4 and 5 of the mini-comic So Buttons, the creation of writer Jonathan Baylis and a whole slew of artists.  In their discussion the Two Guys with PhDs draw connections between Baylis’s work and that of other autobiographical comics writers, such as Harvey Pekar and Jeffrey Brown, and highlight some of the strategies that make So Buttons work.  All of this eventually leads to comments on NPR, war films, and dead birds.

]]> 1859 no Episode 23 - The February Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-23.mp3 Once again Andy and Derek delve into the pages of the latest Previews catalog, and there they find many wondrous things!  This month they note upcoming new series such as X, Jupiter Legacy, Miniature Jesus, Polarity, as well as a number of original graphic novels and collected editions, including Bloodhound from Dark Horse, the Solo Deluxe Edition and Jack Kirby’s In the Days of the Mob from DC Comics, The Secret Service from Marvel, Strange Attractors from Archaia, The Property from Drawn and Quarterly, and Crater XV and Heck from Top Shelf.  They also bring up flaming poop and sticks on fire. Wed, 06 Feb 2013 09:30:00 -0000 The February Previews Catalog full 23 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal "Flaming Poop and Sticks on Fire" Once again Andy and Derek delve into the pages of the latest Previews catalog, and there they find many wondrous things!  This month they note upcoming new series such as X, Jupiter Legacy, Miniature Jesus, Polarity, as well as a number of original graphic novels and collected editions, including Bloodhound from Dark Horse, the Solo Deluxe Edition and Jack Kirby’s In the Days of the Mob from DC Comics, The Secret Service from Marvel, Strange Attractors from Archaia, The Property from Drawn and Quarterly, and Crater XV and Heck from Top Shelf.  They also bring up flaming poop and sticks on fire. Once again Andy and Derek delve into the pages of the latest Previews catalog, and there they find many wondrous things!  This month they note upcoming new series such as X, Jupiter Legacy, Miniature Jesus, Polarity, as well as a number of original graphic novels and collected editions, including Bloodhound from Dark Horse, the Solo Deluxe Edition and Jack Kirby’s In the Days of the Mob from DC Comics, The Secret Service from Marvel, Strange Attractors from Archaia, The Property from Drawn and Quarterly, and Crater XV and Heck from Top Shelf.  They also bring up flaming poop and sticks on fire.

]]> 6056 yes Episode 22 - Creator Spotlight on Grant Morrison http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-22.mp3 On this episode Andy and Derek turn their critical sites on the work of Grant Morrison. Joining them in the discussion is Marc Singer, the author of Grant Morrison: Combining the Worlds of Contemporary Comics.  Although much of the talk revolves around Morrison's non-superhero work - e.g., The Invisibles, The Filth, Seaguy, Flex Mentallo, We3, Sebastian O, The Mystery Play, and Happy! - Derek, Andy, and Marc bring into their discussion titles such as Arkham Asylum, Batman Gothic, Final Crisis, JLA, New X-Men, and Morrison's recent run on Action Comics.  So whether you are a diehard superhero fan, or your tastes run more to alternative or non-mainstream comics, you'll definitely find this an episode worth listening to. Wed, 30 Jan 2013 14:00:00 -0000 Creator Spotlight on Grant Morrison full 22 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Discuss the Comics of Grant Morrison On this episode Andy and Derek turn their critical sites on the work of Grant Morrison. Joining them in the discussion is Marc Singer, the author of Grant Morrison: Combining the Worlds of Contemporary Comics.  Although much of the talk revolves around Morrison's non-superhero work - e.g., The Invisibles, The Filth, Seaguy, Flex Mentallo, We3, Sebastian O, The Mystery Play, and Happy! - Derek, Andy, and Marc bring into their discussion titles such as Arkham Asylum, Batman Gothic, Final Crisis, JLA, New X-Men, and Morrison's recent run on Action Comics.  So whether you are a diehard superhero fan, or your tastes run more to alternative or non-mainstream comics, you'll definitely find this an episode worth listening to. On this episode Andy and Derek turn their critical sites on the work of Grant Morrison. Joining them in the discussion is Marc Singer, the author of Grant Morrison: Combining the Worlds of Contemporary Comics.  Although much of the talk revolves around Morrison's non-superhero work - e.g., The Invisibles, The Filth, Seaguy, Flex Mentallo, We3, Sebastian O, The Mystery Play, and Happy! - Derek, Andy, and Marc bring into their discussion titles such as Arkham Asylum, Batman Gothic, Final Crisis, JLA, New X-Men, and Morrison's recent run on Action Comics.  So whether you are a diehard superhero fan, or your tastes run more to alternative or non-mainstream comics, you'll definitely find this an episode worth listening to.

]]> 6189 no Episode 21 - A Review of Building Stories and Love & Rockets: New Stories 5 http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-21.mp3 This week Andy and Derek take on the herculean (or sisyphean, take your pick of Greek reference) task of discussing Chris Ware’s Building Stories.  And they do so, surprising, without pulling any important muscles!  There is a lot to talk about concerning Building Stories, and the Two Guys with PhDs are only able to scratch the surface in this episode.  But in their review, they nonetheless touch on a variety of important points and questions to consider.  In fact, one of the conclusions reached is that Ware’s project — would you really call this a “book”? — raises more questions that it actually answers.  And that’s a good thing. They also review the Hernandez brother’s latest issue of Love & Rockets: New Stories, although they don’t spend near as much time discussing this as they do Chris Ware’s book.  But don’t let the length of the review fool you.  Jaime and Gilbert’s recent installment of their New Stories is one of the strongest they’ve created so far. Wed, 23 Jan 2013 14:40:00 -0000 Reviews of Building Stories and Love & Rockets: New Stories 5 full 21 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Look at Recent Books from Chris Ware and the Hernandez Brothers This week Andy and Derek take on the herculean (or sisyphean, take your pick of Greek reference) task of discussing Chris Ware’s Building Stories.  And they do so, surprising, without pulling any important muscles!  There is a lot to talk about concerning Building Stories, and the Two Guys with PhDs are only able to scratch the surface in this episode.  But in their review, they nonetheless touch on a variety of important points and questions to consider.  In fact, one of the conclusions reached is that Ware’s project — would you really call this a “book”? — raises more questions that it actually answers.  And that’s a good thing. They also review the Hernandez brother’s latest issue of Love & Rockets: New Stories, although they don’t spend near as much time discussing this as they do Chris Ware’s book.  But don’t let the length of the review fool you.  Jaime and Gilbert’s recent installment of their New Stories is one of the strongest they’ve created so far. This week Andy and Derek take on the herculean (or sisyphean, take your pick of Greek reference) task of discussing Chris Ware’s Building Stories.  And they do so, surprising, without pulling any important muscles!  There is a lot to talk about concerning Building Stories, and the Two Guys with PhDs are only able to scratch the surface in this episode.  But in their review, they nonetheless touch on a variety of important points and questions to consider.  In fact, one of the conclusions reached is that Ware’s project — would you really call this a “book”? — raises more questions that it actually answers.  And that’s a good thing. They also review the Hernandez brother’s latest issue of Love & Rockets: New Stories, although they don’t spend near as much time discussing this as they do Chris Ware’s book.  But don’t let the length of the review fool you.  Jaime and Gilbert’s recent installment of their New Stories is one of the strongest they’ve created so far.

]]> 5432 no Episode 20 - A Roundtable Discussion on Teaching Comics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-20.mp3 With the spring semester beginning for most schools around the country, it’s only appropriate that The Two Guys with Ph.Ds Who Talk about Comics use this time to focus on comics pedagogy.  On this week’s episode, Andy and Derek hold a roundtable discussion with Lan Dong and James Bucky Carter, two scholars who know a lot about teaching comics.   Among other issues, the roundtable participants converse over what kind of works they teach, the challenges of teaching superhero narratives, the pros and cons of anthologies, censorship and graphic content, the links (as well as the disconnects) between comics scholarship and the use of comics in the classroom, pop culture (movies, television, games, etc.) and its impact on how we read and teach comics, and the need for a useful comics studies textbook. Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:40:00 -0000 A Roundtable Discussion on Teaching Comics full 20 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Hold a Roundtable Discussion with Lan Dong and Bucky Carter With the spring semester beginning for most schools around the country, it’s only appropriate that The Two Guys with Ph.Ds Who Talk about Comics use this time to focus on comics pedagogy.  On this week’s episode, Andy and Derek hold a roundtable discussion with Lan Dong and James Bucky Carter, two scholars who know a lot about teaching comics.   Among other issues, the roundtable participants converse over what kind of works they teach, the challenges of teaching superhero narratives, the pros and cons of anthologies, censorship and graphic content, the links (as well as the disconnects) between comics scholarship and the use of comics in the classroom, pop culture (movies, television, games, etc.) and its impact on how we read and teach comics, and the need for a useful comics studies textbook. With the spring semester beginning for most schools around the country, it’s only appropriate that The Two Guys with Ph.Ds Who Talk about Comics use this time to focus on comics pedagogy.  On this week’s episode, Andy and Derek hold a roundtable discussion with Lan Dong and James Bucky Carter, two scholars who know a lot about teaching comics.   Among other issues, the roundtable participants converse over what kind of works they teach, the challenges of teaching superhero narratives, the pros and cons of anthologies, censorship and graphic content, the links (as well as the disconnects) between comics scholarship and the use of comics in the classroom, pop culture (movies, television, games, etc.) and its impact on how we read and teach comics, and the need for a useful comics studies textbook.

]]> 7020 no Episode 19 - The January Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-19.mp3 This week Andy and Derek sift through the January issue of Previews and highlight new titles that will soon be coming out from a wide variety of publishers. Some of the comics discussed include this year’s Free Comic Book Day offerings; Dark Horse’s B.P.R.D.: Vampire and Mister X: Hard Candy; the new Constantine and Time Warp from DC/Vertigo; IDW’s Doctor Who Classics; several new Image Comics offerings, including East of West, Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, and Lost Vegas; All Crime from Art of Fiction; Oni Press’ Helheim; new comics adaptations, including Eureka Production’s Native American Classics, as well as H.P. Lovecraft’s The Case of Charles Dexter Ward and The Complete Don Quixote from SelfMadeHero; the upcoming “secret” history of Marvel Comics from Blake Bell and Michael J. Vassallo; and brand new works from such notable creators as Bill Griffith, Kim Deitch, Bob Fingerman, and the team of James Vance and Dan Burr. Wed, 09 Jan 2013 13:10:00 -0000 The January Previews Catalog full 19 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the January Previews Catalog This week Andy and Derek sift through the January issue of Previews and highlight new titles that will soon be coming out from a wide variety of publishers. Some of the comics discussed include this year’s Free Comic Book Day offerings; Dark Horse’s B.P.R.D.: Vampire and Mister X: Hard Candy; the new Constantine and Time Warp from DC/Vertigo; IDW’s Doctor Who Classics; several new Image Comics offerings, including East of West, Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, and Lost Vegas; All Crime from Art of Fiction; Oni Press’ Helheim; new comics adaptations, including Eureka Production’s Native American Classics, as well as H.P. Lovecraft’s The Case of Charles Dexter Ward and The Complete Don Quixote from SelfMadeHero; the upcoming “secret” history of Marvel Comics from Blake Bell and Michael J. Vassallo; and brand new works from such notable creators as Bill Griffith, Kim Deitch, Bob Fingerman, and the team of James Vance and Dan Burr. This week Andy and Derek sift through the January issue of Previews and highlight new titles that will soon be coming out from a wide variety of publishers. Some of the comics discussed include this year’s Free Comic Book Day offerings; Dark Horse’s B.P.R.D.: Vampire and Mister X: Hard Candy; the new Constantine and Time Warp from DC/Vertigo; IDW’s Doctor Who Classics; several new Image Comics offerings, including East of West, Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray, and Lost Vegas; All Crime from Art of Fiction; Oni Press’ Helheim; new comics adaptations, including Eureka Production’s Native American Classics, as well as H.P. Lovecraft’s The Case of Charles Dexter Ward and The Complete Don Quixote from SelfMadeHero; the upcoming “secret” history of Marvel Comics from Blake Bell and Michael J. Vassallo; and brand new works from such notable creators as Bill Griffith, Kim Deitch, Bob Fingerman, and the team of James Vance and Dan Burr.

]]> 7403 no Episode 18 - An Interview with Ming Doyle http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-18.mp3 This week, Derek and Andy talk to Ming Doyle, the extraordinary artist behind the new Image mini-series, Mara.  In this, the first Comics Alternative episode of 2013, Ming speaks with the Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) about her work with Brian Wood, the joys of creating online comics, her nascent attempts at scripting stories, the evolution of her experience with high-tech writing tools, and what she got for Christmas.  All in all, a great way to start the new year! Wed, 02 Jan 2013 15:33:00 -0000 An Interview with Ming Doyle full 18 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Talk with Ming Doyle, the Artist behind Mara This week, Derek and Andy talk to Ming Doyle, the extraordinary artist behind the new Image mini-series, Mara.  In this, the first Comics Alternative episode of 2013, Ming speaks with the Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) about her work with Brian Wood, the joys of creating online comics, her nascent attempts at scripting stories, the evolution of her experience with high-tech writing tools, and what she got for Christmas.  All in all, a great way to start the new year! This week, Derek and Andy talk to Ming Doyle, the extraordinary artist behind the new Image mini-series, Mara.  In this, the first Comics Alternative episode of 2013, Ming speaks with the Two Guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) about her work with Brian Wood, the joys of creating online comics, her nascent attempts at scripting stories, the evolution of her experience with high-tech writing tools, and what she got for Christmas.  All in all, a great way to start the new year!

]]> 5305 no Episode 17 - Andy and Derek’s 2012 Year in Review http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-17.mp3 This week Andy and Derek conclude their two-part holiday and end-of-the-year series, this time sharing what they consider to be some of their favorite comics of the year. Each has narrowed down his list to 10 comics series, trades, collections, and graphic novels, and in many ways it was difficult to limit the number to just 10.  As a result, the Two Guys are including in the show notes some of the Honorable Mentioned titles that could have also made it onto their best-of lists.  Also in this week’s podcast episode, Andy and Derek briefly discuss some of the comic-book series that ended in 2012, and that they’re sorry to see go, as well as some of their notable disappointments for the year. Wed, 26 Dec 2012 16:35:00 -0000 Andy and Derek’s 2012 Year in Review full 17 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Look Back at Some of Their Favorite Comics of 2012 This week Andy and Derek conclude their two-part holiday and end-of-the-year series, this time sharing what they consider to be some of their favorite comics of the year. Each has narrowed down his list to 10 comics series, trades, collections, and graphic novels, and in many ways it was difficult to limit the number to just 10.  As a result, the Two Guys are including in the show notes some of the Honorable Mentioned titles that could have also made it onto their best-of lists.  Also in this week’s podcast episode, Andy and Derek briefly discuss some of the comic-book series that ended in 2012, and that they’re sorry to see go, as well as some of their notable disappointments for the year. This week Andy and Derek conclude their two-part holiday and end-of-the-year series, this time sharing what they consider to be some of their favorite comics of the year. Each has narrowed down his list to 10 comics series, trades, collections, and graphic novels, and in many ways it was difficult to limit the number to just 10.  As a result, the Two Guys are including in the show notes some of the Honorable Mentioned titles that could have also made it onto their best-of lists.  Also in this week’s podcast episode, Andy and Derek briefly discuss some of the comic-book series that ended in 2012, and that they’re sorry to see go, as well as some of their notable disappointments for the year.

]]> 6990 no Episode 16 - Review of Best American Comics 2012 and Christmas Classics http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-16.mp3 This week Andy and Derek present the first of two special year-end, holiday season, best of episodes of The Comics Alternative.  In this week’s show, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss two comics anthologies, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s The Best American Comics 2012, edited by Françoise Mouly, and Eureka Production’s 19th volume in their Graphic Classics series, Christmas Classics. They begin with Mouly’s collection and, while appreciating the comics included in this year's volume, speculate on the selection process and wonder about the kind of democratic inclusion that a series with “Best American Comics” in its title necessitates. The Two Guys then turn their attention to the holidays and discuss the various selections found in Christmas Classics. They point out that much like this year’s Graphic Classics holiday volume, Halloween Classics, the Christmas one delivers clever and well-crafted versions of classic literature that are sure to please both comics fans and literary aficionados. Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:30:00 -0000 Reviews of Best American Comics 2012 and Christmas Classics full 16 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Review Two Anthologies, Françoise Mouly's Best American Comics 2012 and Tom Pomplun's Christmas Classics This week Andy and Derek present the first of two special year-end, holiday season, best of episodes of The Comics Alternative.  In this week’s show, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss two comics anthologies, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s The Best American Comics 2012, edited by Françoise Mouly, and Eureka Production’s 19th volume in their Graphic Classics series, Christmas Classics. They begin with Mouly’s collection and, while appreciating the comics included in this year's volume, speculate on the selection process and wonder about the kind of democratic inclusion that a series with “Best American Comics” in its title necessitates. The Two Guys then turn their attention to the holidays and discuss the various selections found in Christmas Classics. They point out that much like this year’s Graphic Classics holiday volume, Halloween Classics, the Christmas one delivers clever and well-crafted versions of classic literature that are sure to please both comics fans and literary aficionados. This week Andy and Derek present the first of two special year-end, holiday season, best of episodes of The Comics Alternative.  In this week’s show, the Two Guys with PhDs discuss two comics anthologies, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s The Best American Comics 2012, edited by Françoise Mouly, and Eureka Production’s 19th volume in their Graphic Classics series, Christmas Classics. They begin with Mouly’s collection and, while appreciating the comics included in this year's volume, speculate on the selection process and wonder about the kind of democratic inclusion that a series with “Best American Comics” in its title necessitates. The Two Guys then turn their attention to the holidays and discuss the various selections found in Christmas Classics. They point out that much like this year’s Graphic Classics holiday volume, Halloween Classics, the Christmas one delivers clever and well-crafted versions of classic literature that are sure to please both comics fans and literary aficionados.

]]> 6400 no Episode 15 - The December Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-15.mp3 The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the December Previews CatalogIn this week’s episode, The Two Guys with PhDs rummage through the December issue of Previews, and fun and mayhem ensue! Derek and Andy highlight upcoming comics from Dark Horse, DC, IDW, Image, Marvel, Archaia, Bongo, Fantagraphics, :01 First Second, Pantheon Books, and others. Some of the comics and graphic novels discussed include Dark Horse Presents, The Answer!, Before Watchman: Dollar Bill, Mind MGMT, Marshall Law: Deluxe Edition, Snapshot, Son of Merlin, Road to Oz, World War 3 Illustrated, The Sixth Gun: Sons of the Gun, The Daniel Clowes Reader, Ben Katchor’s Hand-Drying in America, and many others. Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:00:00 -0000 The December Previews Catalog full 15 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the December Previews Catalog The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the December Previews CatalogIn this week’s episode, The Two Guys with PhDs rummage through the December issue of Previews, and fun and mayhem ensue! Derek and Andy highlight upcoming comics from Dark Horse, DC, IDW, Image, Marvel, Archaia, Bongo, Fantagraphics, :01 First Second, Pantheon Books, and others. Some of the comics and graphic novels discussed include Dark Horse Presents, The Answer!, Before Watchman: Dollar Bill, Mind MGMT, Marshall Law: Deluxe Edition, Snapshot, Son of Merlin, Road to Oz, World War 3 Illustrated, The Sixth Gun: Sons of the Gun, The Daniel Clowes Reader, Ben Katchor’s Hand-Drying in America, and many others. The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the December Previews CatalogIn this week’s episode, The Two Guys with PhDs rummage through the December issue of Previews, and fun and mayhem ensue! Derek and Andy highlight upcoming comics from Dark Horse, DC, IDW, Image, Marvel, Archaia, Bongo, Fantagraphics, :01 First Second, Pantheon Books, and others. Some of the comics and graphic novels discussed include Dark Horse Presents, The Answer!, Before Watchman: Dollar Bill, Mind MGMT, Marshall Law: Deluxe Edition, Snapshot, Son of Merlin, Road to Oz, World War 3 Illustrated, The Sixth Gun: Sons of the Gun, The Daniel Clowes Reader, Ben Katchor’s Hand-Drying in America, and many others.

]]> 6221 no Episode 14 - A Review of The Lovecraft Anthology and Recent Image #1s http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-14.mp3 In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs who talk about comics turn their attention to the two Lovecraft Anthology volumes, discussing not only the merits of the various adapted Lovecraft stories, but the very act of comics adaptation.  Along with this, Andy and Derek emphasize the medium itself and how comics artists use the image to carry the tone and whatever message there may be.  Then the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to several recent #1 issues from Image Comics, including Bedlam, Clone, Comeback, Nowhere Men, Great Pacific, and Blackacre.  It becomes a comics smorgasbord, as Andy and Derek discuss the pros and cons, the strengths and weaknesses, the sacredness and profanity, the best of times and the worst of times, the yin and yang, of Image’s recent new offerings. Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:50:00 -0000 Reviews of The Lovecraft Anthology and Recent Image #1s full 14 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Review the Two-Volume Lovecraft Anthology and Recent #1 Issues from Image Comics In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs who talk about comics turn their attention to the two Lovecraft Anthology volumes, discussing not only the merits of the various adapted Lovecraft stories, but the very act of comics adaptation.  Along with this, Andy and Derek emphasize the medium itself and how comics artists use the image to carry the tone and whatever message there may be.  Then the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to several recent #1 issues from Image Comics, including Bedlam, Clone, Comeback, Nowhere Men, Great Pacific, and Blackacre.  It becomes a comics smorgasbord, as Andy and Derek discuss the pros and cons, the strengths and weaknesses, the sacredness and profanity, the best of times and the worst of times, the yin and yang, of Image’s recent new offerings. In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs who talk about comics turn their attention to the two Lovecraft Anthology volumes, discussing not only the merits of the various adapted Lovecraft stories, but the very act of comics adaptation.  Along with this, Andy and Derek emphasize the medium itself and how comics artists use the image to carry the tone and whatever message there may be.  Then the Two Guys with PhDs turn their attention to several recent #1 issues from Image Comics, including Bedlam, Clone, Comeback, Nowhere Men, Great Pacific, and Blackacre.  It becomes a comics smorgasbord, as Andy and Derek discuss the pros and cons, the strengths and weaknesses, the sacredness and profanity, the best of times and the worst of times, the yin and yang, of Image’s recent new offerings.

]]> 7271 no Episode 13 - An Interview with Tim Seeley http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-13.mp3 In this episode, Derek and Andy talk to Tim Seeley about his new hit Image series with artist Mike Norton, Revival, and the new Dark Horse vampire miniseries, Ex Sanguine, with co-writer Josh Emmons. They also talk about horror, the comics business, rural Wisconsin, life in a small town, fish fries, and a host of other topics. In addition, Andy tells the story of a baller experience he and Tim had in Myrtle Beach, SC, which involved a burlesque dancer in a cat costume, a whip, and the destruction of a priceless work of art! Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:10:00 -0000 An Interview with Tim Seeley full 13 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Talk with Tim Seeley In this episode, Derek and Andy talk to Tim Seeley about his new hit Image series with artist Mike Norton, Revival, and the new Dark Horse vampire miniseries, Ex Sanguine, with co-writer Josh Emmons. They also talk about horror, the comics business, rural Wisconsin, life in a small town, fish fries, and a host of other topics. In addition, Andy tells the story of a baller experience he and Tim had in Myrtle Beach, SC, which involved a burlesque dancer in a cat costume, a whip, and the destruction of a priceless work of art! In this episode, Derek and Andy talk to Tim Seeley about his new hit Image series with artist Mike Norton, Revival, and the new Dark Horse vampire miniseries, Ex Sanguine, with co-writer Josh Emmons. They also talk about horror, the comics business, rural Wisconsin, life in a small town, fish fries, and a host of other topics. In addition, Andy tells the story of a baller experience he and Tim had in Myrtle Beach, SC, which involved a burlesque dancer in a cat costume, a whip, and the destruction of a priceless work of art!

]]> 5256 yes Episode 12 - The October Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-12.mp3 In this episode, Derek and Andy go through the October issue of Previews so you don't have to! They talk about upcoming books from Boom!, Dark Horse, DC, IDW, Image, Fantagraphics, Oni, Red 5, and others. Books discussed include Planet of the Apes, Hellboy in Hell, House of Fun, Rotten Apple, Django Unchained, Global Frequency, House of Secrets, Sweet Tooth, Change, Revival, Fatale, Think Tank, Love and Rockets, Atomic Robo, and many others. Thu, 11 Oct 2012 04:25:00 -0000 The October Previews Catalog full 12 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the October Previews Catalog In this episode, Derek and Andy go through the October issue of Previews so you don't have to! They talk about upcoming books from Boom!, Dark Horse, DC, IDW, Image, Fantagraphics, Oni, Red 5, and others. Books discussed include Planet of the Apes, Hellboy in Hell, House of Fun, Rotten Apple, Django Unchained, Global Frequency, House of Secrets, Sweet Tooth, Change, Revival, Fatale, Think Tank, Love and Rockets, Atomic Robo, and many others. In this episode, Derek and Andy go through the October issue of Previews so you don't have to! They talk about upcoming books from Boom!, Dark Horse, DC, IDW, Image, Fantagraphics, Oni, Red 5, and others. Books discussed include Planet of the Apes, Hellboy in Hell, House of Fun, Rotten Apple, Django Unchained, Global Frequency, House of Secrets, Sweet Tooth, Change, Revival, Fatale, Think Tank, Love and Rockets, Atomic Robo, and many others.

]]> 5813 no Episode 11 - A Review of Witch Doctor and Atomic Robo http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-11.mp3 In this episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs review Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner's Witch Doctor, Volume 1: Under the Knife and the ongoing series Atomic Robo, by Brian Clevinger and Scott Wegener.  Andy and Derek bring their refined critical skills and jocular insights to these two texts, once again demonstrating how hip and intelligent comics can be.  They also talk about other stuff. Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:20:00 -0000 Reviews of Witch Doctor and Atomic Robo full 11 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Review the series Witch Doctor and Atomic Robo In this episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs review Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner's Witch Doctor, Volume 1: Under the Knife and the ongoing series Atomic Robo, by Brian Clevinger and Scott Wegener.  Andy and Derek bring their refined critical skills and jocular insights to these two texts, once again demonstrating how hip and intelligent comics can be.  They also talk about other stuff. In this episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs review Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner's Witch Doctor, Volume 1: Under the Knife and the ongoing series Atomic Robo, by Brian Clevinger and Scott Wegener.  Andy and Derek bring their refined critical skills and jocular insights to these two texts, once again demonstrating how hip and intelligent comics can be.  They also talk about other stuff.

]]> 6758 no Episode 10 - An Interview with Philip Gelatt and Tyler Crook http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-10.mp3 In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs talk to Philip Gelatt and Tyler Crook, the creators behind the Oni graphic novel Petrograd. We also talk to Tyler about his work on The Sixth Gun and B.P.R.D.   Along the way, Philip drops some stunning historical facts, Tyler is congratulated on winning the Russ Manning Most Promising Newcomer Award at this year's Eisner Awards, and everyone also talks a lot about movies, with a particularly controversial defense of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me.  In addition, the Coen Brothers are mentioned, in all of their psychotic and violent glory. Thu, 27 Sep 2012 01:15:00 -0000 An Interview with Philip Gelatt and Tyler Crook full 10 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Talk with the Creators of Petrograd In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs talk to Philip Gelatt and Tyler Crook, the creators behind the Oni graphic novel Petrograd. We also talk to Tyler about his work on The Sixth Gun and B.P.R.D.   Along the way, Philip drops some stunning historical facts, Tyler is congratulated on winning the Russ Manning Most Promising Newcomer Award at this year's Eisner Awards, and everyone also talks a lot about movies, with a particularly controversial defense of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me.  In addition, the Coen Brothers are mentioned, in all of their psychotic and violent glory. In this episode, the Two Guys with PhDs talk to Philip Gelatt and Tyler Crook, the creators behind the Oni graphic novel Petrograd. We also talk to Tyler about his work on The Sixth Gun and B.P.R.D.   Along the way, Philip drops some stunning historical facts, Tyler is congratulated on winning the Russ Manning Most Promising Newcomer Award at this year's Eisner Awards, and everyone also talks a lot about movies, with a particularly controversial defense of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me.  In addition, the Coen Brothers are mentioned, in all of their psychotic and violent glory.

]]> 6573 no Episode 9 - A Roundtable Discussion on Comics Studies and Fandom http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-09.mp3 On this episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs who talk about comics are talking with two other PhDs who like to talk about comics in their first-ever roundtable discussion for the podcast.  Tof Elkund and Matthew Pustz join Andy and Derek to discuss the curious intersection of comics scholarship and comics fandom.  The four guys begin by referencing Matthew's 1999 book on this very topic, Comic Book Culture: Fanboys and True Believers, and from there venture out onto other fruitful avenues of discussion.  What follows is a lively back-and-forth on such issues as the relationship between fans and scholars, the tensions that (at times) result from the intersection of these two groups, the traditionally marginal status of comics in academia, the place of fan-based activities (such as conventions, podcasts, and blogs) in scholarly studies, the differences in purpose and audience assumptions within both communities, and how academics could greatly benefit from fan-generated endeavors. Thu, 20 Sep 2012 01:10:00 -0000 A Roundtable Discussion on Comics Studies and Fandom full 9 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Hold a Roundtable Discussion with Tof Eklund and Matthew Pustz On this episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs who talk about comics are talking with two other PhDs who like to talk about comics in their first-ever roundtable discussion for the podcast.  Tof Elkund and Matthew Pustz join Andy and Derek to discuss the curious intersection of comics scholarship and comics fandom.  The four guys begin by referencing Matthew's 1999 book on this very topic, Comic Book Culture: Fanboys and True Believers, and from there venture out onto other fruitful avenues of discussion.  What follows is a lively back-and-forth on such issues as the relationship between fans and scholars, the tensions that (at times) result from the intersection of these two groups, the traditionally marginal status of comics in academia, the place of fan-based activities (such as conventions, podcasts, and blogs) in scholarly studies, the differences in purpose and audience assumptions within both communities, and how academics could greatly benefit from fan-generated endeavors. On this episode of The Comics Alternative, the Two Guys with PhDs who talk about comics are talking with two other PhDs who like to talk about comics in their first-ever roundtable discussion for the podcast.  Tof Elkund and Matthew Pustz join Andy and Derek to discuss the curious intersection of comics scholarship and comics fandom.  The four guys begin by referencing Matthew's 1999 book on this very topic, Comic Book Culture: Fanboys and True Believers, and from there venture out onto other fruitful avenues of discussion.  What follows is a lively back-and-forth on such issues as the relationship between fans and scholars, the tensions that (at times) result from the intersection of these two groups, the traditionally marginal status of comics in academia, the place of fan-based activities (such as conventions, podcasts, and blogs) in scholarly studies, the differences in purpose and audience assumptions within both communities, and how academics could greatly benefit from fan-generated endeavors.

]]> 6037 no Episode 8 - The September Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-08.mp3 This week Andy and Derek take a close look at the solicits in the September Previews catalog.  There are a lot of great comics coming over the horizon, and the Two Guys with PhDs highlight those titles that strike their fancies.  In the midst of their discussion, they bring up Bronies, engage in George Takei imitations, berate the editors at Previews, and ponder the ramifications of the word "wad." Wed, 12 Sep 2012 11:30:00 -0000 The September Previews Catalog full 8 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Look at the September Previews Catalog This week Andy and Derek take a close look at the solicits in the September Previews catalog.  There are a lot of great comics coming over the horizon, and the Two Guys with PhDs highlight those titles that strike their fancies.  In the midst of their discussion, they bring up Bronies, engage in George Takei imitations, berate the editors at Previews, and ponder the ramifications of the word "wad." This week Andy and Derek take a close look at the solicits in the September Previews catalog.  There are a lot of great comics coming over the horizon, and the Two Guys with PhDs highlight those titles that strike their fancies.  In the midst of their discussion, they bring up Bronies, engage in George Takei imitations, berate the editors at Previews, and ponder the ramifications of the word "wad."

]]> 5509 no Episode 7 - Review of My Friend Dahmer and Mind MGMT http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-07.mp3 This week Andy and Derek thrill and amaze by doing close readings of Derk Backder's graphic memoir, My Friend Dahmer, and Matt Kindt's new ongoing series, Mind MGMT. Enmeshed in the wonderful world of great art, fine storytelling, and cool spy stuff, the two guys with PhDs are in their element. Oh, they also unapologetically become shills for the podcast by pointing out their new PayPal Donate button and asking listeners to help spread the word about their show. They're like that at times. Wed, 05 Sep 2012 11:05:00 -0000 Reviews of My Friend Dahmer and Mind MGMT full 7 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal The Two Guys with PhDs Discuss My Friend Dahmer and Mind MGMT This week Andy and Derek thrill and amaze by doing close readings of Derk Backder's graphic memoir, My Friend Dahmer, and Matt Kindt's new ongoing series, Mind MGMT. Enmeshed in the wonderful world of great art, fine storytelling, and cool spy stuff, the two guys with PhDs are in their element. Oh, they also unapologetically become shills for the podcast by pointing out their new PayPal Donate button and asking listeners to help spread the word about their show. They're like that at times. This week Andy and Derek thrill and amaze by doing close readings of Derk Backder's graphic memoir, My Friend Dahmer, and Matt Kindt's new ongoing series, Mind MGMT. Enmeshed in the wonderful world of great art, fine storytelling, and cool spy stuff, the two guys with PhDs are in their element. Oh, they also unapologetically become shills for the podcast by pointing out their new PayPal Donate button and asking listeners to help spread the word about their show. They're like that at times.

]]> 6368 no Episode 6 - Artist Spotlight on Jeff Lemire http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-06.mp3 On this episode, the two guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) offer their very first "Artist Spotlight" episode.  They discuss the (mainly non-mainstream) work of Jeff Lemire, from his earliest comics--such as Lost Dogs--to the much lauded Essex County Trilogy, to his work on Vertigo, to his most recent graphic novel, The Underwater Welder.  Along the way, Andy and Derek find the opportunity to bring up the topics of narrative iconography, the story-cycle genre, and Andy's fascination with Dean Martin. Wed, 29 Aug 2012 19:50:00 -0000 Artist Spotlight on Jeff Lemire full 6 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy and Derek Take a Close Look at the Comics of Jeff Lemire On this episode, the two guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) offer their very first "Artist Spotlight" episode.  They discuss the (mainly non-mainstream) work of Jeff Lemire, from his earliest comics--such as Lost Dogs--to the much lauded Essex County Trilogy, to his work on Vertigo, to his most recent graphic novel, The Underwater Welder.  Along the way, Andy and Derek find the opportunity to bring up the topics of narrative iconography, the story-cycle genre, and Andy's fascination with Dean Martin. On this episode, the two guys with PhDs (who talk about comics) offer their very first "Artist Spotlight" episode.  They discuss the (mainly non-mainstream) work of Jeff Lemire, from his earliest comics--such as Lost Dogs--to the much lauded Essex County Trilogy, to his work on Vertigo, to his most recent graphic novel, The Underwater Welder.  Along the way, Andy and Derek find the opportunity to bring up the topics of narrative iconography, the story-cycle genre, and Andy's fascination with Dean Martin.

]]> 4622 no Episode 5 - A Review of God and Science and Tales Designed to Thrizzle http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-05.mp3 On this review episode, Derek and Andy first talk about Jaime Hernandez's God and Science: Return of the Ti-Girls, the new collection/expansion of Jaime's recent superhero story that originally ran in Love and Rockets: New Stories Vol. 1 and 2. Then, the two guys switch to Michael Kupperman's Tales Designed to Thrizzle series, where they get to talk about things like Quincy, snakes, bacon, pubic hair, and other scholarly topics. Wed, 22 Aug 2012 11:20:00 -0000 Reviews of God and Science and Tales Designed to Thrizzle full 5 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy and Derek Look at Recent Work by Jaime Hernandez and Michael Kupperman On this review episode, Derek and Andy first talk about Jaime Hernandez's God and Science: Return of the Ti-Girls, the new collection/expansion of Jaime's recent superhero story that originally ran in Love and Rockets: New Stories Vol. 1 and 2. Then, the two guys switch to Michael Kupperman's Tales Designed to Thrizzle series, where they get to talk about things like Quincy, snakes, bacon, pubic hair, and other scholarly topics. On this review episode, Derek and Andy first talk about Jaime Hernandez's God and Science: Return of the Ti-Girls, the new collection/expansion of Jaime's recent superhero story that originally ran in Love and Rockets: New Stories Vol. 1 and 2. Then, the two guys switch to Michael Kupperman's Tales Designed to Thrizzle series, where they get to talk about things like Quincy, snakes, bacon, pubic hair, and other scholarly topics.

]]> 5394 no Episode 4 - An Interview with Jonathan Hickman http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-04.mp3 In this episode, Derek and Andy sit down with Jonathan Hickman for their first interview show. They talk about Jonathan's current Image comics (Manhattan Projects and Secret), past comics (Nightly News, Pax Romana, Red Mass for Mars, Red Wing), and future projects (Feel Better Now). Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:25:00 -0000 An Interview with Jonathan Hickman full 4 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Andy and Derek Talk with Jonathan Hickman In this episode, Derek and Andy sit down with Jonathan Hickman for their first interview show. They talk about Jonathan's current Image comics (Manhattan Projects and Secret), past comics (Nightly News, Pax Romana, Red Mass for Mars, Red Wing), and future projects (Feel Better Now). In this episode, Derek and Andy sit down with Jonathan Hickman for their first interview show. They talk about Jonathan's current Image comics (Manhattan Projects and Secret), past comics (Nightly News, Pax Romana, Red Mass for Mars, Red Wing), and future projects (Feel Better Now).

]]> 4550 yes Episode 3 - The August Previews Catalog http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-03.mp3 In this episode we begin our monthly look at the Previews catalog. In our Previews episodes, we highlight those non-superhero comic-book series and books that stand out to us, ones we would recommend to other readers. Wed, 08 Aug 2012 13:15:00 -0000 The August Previews Catalog full 3 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal A Look at the August Previews Catalog In this episode we begin our monthly look at the Previews catalog. In our Previews episodes, we highlight those non-superhero comic-book series and books that stand out to us, ones we would recommend to other readers. In this episode we begin our monthly look at the Previews catalog. In our Previews episodes, we highlight those non-superhero comic-book series and books that stand out to us, ones we would recommend to other readers.

]]> 4998 no Episode 2 - Review of The Score and Saga http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-02.mp3 Our first review episode where we discuss Darwyn Cooke's The Score and Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples's series Saga. Fri, 03 Aug 2012 11:10:00 -0000 Reviews of The Score and Saga full 2 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal Review episode on The Score and Saga Our first review episode where we discuss Darwyn Cooke's The Score and Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples's series Saga. Our first review episode where we discuss Darwyn Cooke's The Score and Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples's series Saga.

]]> 5856 no Episode 1 - An Alternative Comics Manifesto http://comicsalternative.com/Episodes/ComicsAlternative-01.mp3 First episode of The Comics Alternative where Andy and Derek introduce themselves, discuss the focus of the podcast, and lay out its broader mission. Wed, 01 Aug 2012 13:10:00 -0000 An Alternative Comics Manifesto full 1 Stergios Botzakis & Derek Royal An Alternative Comics Manifesto First episode of The Comics Alternative where Andy and Derek introduce themselves, discuss the focus of the podcast, and lay out its broader mission. First episode of The Comics Alternative where Andy and Derek introduce themselves, discuss the focus of the podcast, and lay out its broader mission.

]]> 3137 no