Burough of Churches #2
Ellipsium Entertainment
Writer: Adam Cheal
Art: Amrit Birdi
Colours: Michael Summers
Letters: Mindy Lopkin
Reviewer: Rob Wrecks
Summary: During a late night police call out, Charlie is attacked by a rogue vampire and infected with the "feeder" gene. This sparks a series of events that quickly spiral out of control and leave Charlie's future and survival in jeopardy.
Review: Well now, and I thought Buffy Summers pretty much owned the top spot for most interesting female supernatural fighting lead to have an interesting name. But the very lovely lead woman within Burough of Churches certainly takes up a contender's spot for Buffy Summers' spot. Another nice little bit is that Chuckles, (the lead lady in question) even looks like Sara Pezzini's long lost twin sister to some degree! Matter of fact you don't see too many women in comics who are cops so this is also a nice touch too. And Chuckles definitely isn't afraid to chow down on a donut like there's no tomorrow. Something I oddly found to be both hot and funny at the same time. And there's one thing that has become abundantly clear to me in these first two issues that I've read. Its that Chuckles' distant ancestor who's name is Doyle is an idiot for touching a necklace he already knew was all kinds of bad mojo! But he was able to at least use it to his advantage and become a man of God who slays evil. But I have to admit though, the organization and the linked destiny through a certain line of people reminds me a bit of Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
Only I'm torn between which of the two origins for how the lines got started is the way more unpleasant of the two. Could be split down the middle, but that's something that can always be discussed at a later time! As for a lot of the dialogue in this story however, Adam Cheal certainly doesn't hold back on the language. Which is refreshing cause it means he's not treating this like its a kids only kind of thing. Amrit's art certainly helps to show this isn't just for kids either. Especially when we're getting a pretty darn good view of Chuckles in the first issue. Kinda makes a man want to howl actually.
Now my thing is, if Chuckles' family has been part of this long history of demon slaying folks like Doyle from the old days. Then how is she not even aware of it? Could it have been something she just wasn't told in time or what? These answers aren't very clear just yet, but I'm sure we'll be getting them pretty soon! Little pieces of future events have already been seen as is. Some of it good, some of it bad. In my view, its especially good where her jerky husband is concerned. But that's just me. I can't exactly say that I'm entirely hooked on this comic as its been mostly back story explaining things from Chuckles' point of view. But I'm willing to keep on reading for that moment to hit me. So if you're looking for something that's not willing to hold back, and features a promising story with a bodaciously strong cop lady. Borough of Churches will be something to check out!
Ellipsium Entertainment
Writer: Adam Cheal
Art: Amrit Birdi
Colours: Michael Summers
Letters: Mindy Lopkin
Reviewer: Rob Wrecks
Summary: During a late night police call out, Charlie is attacked by a rogue vampire and infected with the "feeder" gene. This sparks a series of events that quickly spiral out of control and leave Charlie's future and survival in jeopardy.
Review: Well now, and I thought Buffy Summers pretty much owned the top spot for most interesting female supernatural fighting lead to have an interesting name. But the very lovely lead woman within Burough of Churches certainly takes up a contender's spot for Buffy Summers' spot. Another nice little bit is that Chuckles, (the lead lady in question) even looks like Sara Pezzini's long lost twin sister to some degree! Matter of fact you don't see too many women in comics who are cops so this is also a nice touch too. And Chuckles definitely isn't afraid to chow down on a donut like there's no tomorrow. Something I oddly found to be both hot and funny at the same time. And there's one thing that has become abundantly clear to me in these first two issues that I've read. Its that Chuckles' distant ancestor who's name is Doyle is an idiot for touching a necklace he already knew was all kinds of bad mojo! But he was able to at least use it to his advantage and become a man of God who slays evil. But I have to admit though, the organization and the linked destiny through a certain line of people reminds me a bit of Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
Only I'm torn between which of the two origins for how the lines got started is the way more unpleasant of the two. Could be split down the middle, but that's something that can always be discussed at a later time! As for a lot of the dialogue in this story however, Adam Cheal certainly doesn't hold back on the language. Which is refreshing cause it means he's not treating this like its a kids only kind of thing. Amrit's art certainly helps to show this isn't just for kids either. Especially when we're getting a pretty darn good view of Chuckles in the first issue. Kinda makes a man want to howl actually.
Now my thing is, if Chuckles' family has been part of this long history of demon slaying folks like Doyle from the old days. Then how is she not even aware of it? Could it have been something she just wasn't told in time or what? These answers aren't very clear just yet, but I'm sure we'll be getting them pretty soon! Little pieces of future events have already been seen as is. Some of it good, some of it bad. In my view, its especially good where her jerky husband is concerned. But that's just me. I can't exactly say that I'm entirely hooked on this comic as its been mostly back story explaining things from Chuckles' point of view. But I'm willing to keep on reading for that moment to hit me. So if you're looking for something that's not willing to hold back, and features a promising story with a bodaciously strong cop lady. Borough of Churches will be something to check out!
Chess-Masters #1
Insane Comics 2015
Written by: Bradley Golden & Gary McClendon
Illustrated & Lettered by: Marcelo Salaza
Coloured by: Geraldo Filho
Reviewer: Steven Leitman
Summary: In the 25th century, society has finally emerged as a civilized population. No more wars, illness, hunger, or racial hatred. However, the evil PAWN-MASTER has seen this as an opportunity to control the weak and has been using his eight royal pawns to wreak havoc throughout the city. Conversely, the government has put together an extraordinary team of individuals known as THE CHESS-MASTERS to battle against this corruption and oppressiveness.
Review: In the 25th Century, society has finally emerged as a civilized population--Mecca New York. No more wars, illness, hunger, or racial hatred. The world has become a near utopian society, excluding the handful of villains running about trying to take over the world. Conversely, the Government has put together an extraordinary team of individuals known as The Chess-Masters to battle against this corruption and oppressiveness. The Evil Pawn_master and his eight royal pawns have been wreaking havoc throughout the entire city. The Chess-Masters quickly move into defensive mode. The battle was extensive and severe. Through all of this, the Pawn-Master generated a time rip and propelled The Chess-Master back to the 21st Century where he could make use of a few of his close associates.
This was a pleasant surprise for me. I love having the opportunity to read these self-published books because you never know what you are going to find. What we have here is fantastic I love that these folks have a passion for what they do that they actually have a great deal of talent on display here in both the writing and the artwork. Marcelo and Geraldo really brought some incredibly detailed, expressive and powerful interiors making this all the better to read. By the way page 22 and the birds there? Yeah that’s freaking amazing stuff.
I’m gonna stress this again as I go into the story, I am an art snob as I like it sharp, detailed and impactful and when we start things off here you get it all and it makes the story stronger. So the team has arrived in the past and before they even have a chance to acclimate themselves, gather their wits and figure out their next move they come into contact with the military. Someone told them where and when they would appear and that they were dangerous to America and needed to be taken down. That much is obvious and to have this kind of thrown right into the deep end writing from the start was a really excellent way to begin.
I do have one small problem with this team and that is that they come from a time period where racial harmony is the norm and the group is as diverse as I think it should be if you are going to stress that fact. Just an observation on my part but I would’ve expected more diverse ethnicity in what we’re seeing.
That in this time period the military also has those humans with powers in it and is using them to confront this “new threat” and we see it all unfold like we do is nicely done. Though it is a great way to introduce us to these folks and what they can do. A nice display on the team dynamic and their powers.
We do meet the Pawn-Master and learn his role in all this before the issue ends and he’s pretty awesome looking, though that white stripe down the hair is a little cliche and was used in the LSH by the second Invisible Kid so that’s kind of distracting for me. His costume however is great and what he’s doing yeah it sets this up nicely that while he may be powerful, he’s still worried about the Chess-Masters.
Find this is my recommendation and see for yourself what it’s about, give it a try with an open mind and discover a new set of creators with a unique voice that’s as relevant as anything else on stands today.
Editor's Note: Chess-Masters #1 is available in both print and digital, to grab yourself a copy in either version, head here!
Insane Comics 2015
Written by: Bradley Golden & Gary McClendon
Illustrated & Lettered by: Marcelo Salaza
Coloured by: Geraldo Filho
Reviewer: Steven Leitman
Summary: In the 25th century, society has finally emerged as a civilized population. No more wars, illness, hunger, or racial hatred. However, the evil PAWN-MASTER has seen this as an opportunity to control the weak and has been using his eight royal pawns to wreak havoc throughout the city. Conversely, the government has put together an extraordinary team of individuals known as THE CHESS-MASTERS to battle against this corruption and oppressiveness.
Review: In the 25th Century, society has finally emerged as a civilized population--Mecca New York. No more wars, illness, hunger, or racial hatred. The world has become a near utopian society, excluding the handful of villains running about trying to take over the world. Conversely, the Government has put together an extraordinary team of individuals known as The Chess-Masters to battle against this corruption and oppressiveness. The Evil Pawn_master and his eight royal pawns have been wreaking havoc throughout the entire city. The Chess-Masters quickly move into defensive mode. The battle was extensive and severe. Through all of this, the Pawn-Master generated a time rip and propelled The Chess-Master back to the 21st Century where he could make use of a few of his close associates.
This was a pleasant surprise for me. I love having the opportunity to read these self-published books because you never know what you are going to find. What we have here is fantastic I love that these folks have a passion for what they do that they actually have a great deal of talent on display here in both the writing and the artwork. Marcelo and Geraldo really brought some incredibly detailed, expressive and powerful interiors making this all the better to read. By the way page 22 and the birds there? Yeah that’s freaking amazing stuff.
I’m gonna stress this again as I go into the story, I am an art snob as I like it sharp, detailed and impactful and when we start things off here you get it all and it makes the story stronger. So the team has arrived in the past and before they even have a chance to acclimate themselves, gather their wits and figure out their next move they come into contact with the military. Someone told them where and when they would appear and that they were dangerous to America and needed to be taken down. That much is obvious and to have this kind of thrown right into the deep end writing from the start was a really excellent way to begin.
I do have one small problem with this team and that is that they come from a time period where racial harmony is the norm and the group is as diverse as I think it should be if you are going to stress that fact. Just an observation on my part but I would’ve expected more diverse ethnicity in what we’re seeing.
That in this time period the military also has those humans with powers in it and is using them to confront this “new threat” and we see it all unfold like we do is nicely done. Though it is a great way to introduce us to these folks and what they can do. A nice display on the team dynamic and their powers.
We do meet the Pawn-Master and learn his role in all this before the issue ends and he’s pretty awesome looking, though that white stripe down the hair is a little cliche and was used in the LSH by the second Invisible Kid so that’s kind of distracting for me. His costume however is great and what he’s doing yeah it sets this up nicely that while he may be powerful, he’s still worried about the Chess-Masters.
Find this is my recommendation and see for yourself what it’s about, give it a try with an open mind and discover a new set of creators with a unique voice that’s as relevant as anything else on stands today.
Editor's Note: Chess-Masters #1 is available in both print and digital, to grab yourself a copy in either version, head here!
Zombie Tramp Vol. 3 #13
Action Lab: Danger Zone
Writers: Dan Mendoza
Pencilers: Dan Mendoza
Reviewer: Derrick T. Crow
Summary: She used to be Hollywood's hottest high priced call girl, until the bite of an undead john changed her into something deadly different! Now Janey Belle – the street walking dead with supernatural abilities and a copy of the infamous Necronomicon – roams the highways searching for answers as the... ZOMBIE TRAMP!
[SPOILERS!!]
Review: This issue Mendoza takes over both writing and artistry duties, something he hasn't done in since the original vol. 2 mini-series “The Taint Train of Terror.” Touted as the anniversary issue, after the events of last time I could've sworn the anniversary “reunion” was headed in another direction, but was completely wrong.
This issue sees another kind of reunion, not only has Mendoza returned to the book for a one issue special, but he decides to focus the story on a revenge tale for Janey, going all the way back to the most traumatic experience of her life, this offers up a brutal and honest resolution to a story that I didn't know till now actually needed it.
Not once did I think “I wonder if Janey will ever come across those who raped her and her best friend in high school,” until it finally happened this issue and immediately my brain clicked: “Oh yeah! This is actually perfect for a reunion issue!” Now, in this issue, Janey only ends up dealing with her best friend's rapist, her own rapist is still out there, something that may or may not ever come to pass with retribution. And that's okay, it may turn out to be overkill (heh) if Janey were to ever see resolution for her personal rapist's actions.
That all being said, I was little sad to see the Voodoo Queen not return this issue. Their reunion will have to wait a bit longer I suppose. However, the final panels do see an interesting idea brought up that will most undoubtedly be answered once she does run into the Voodoo Queen again. I am just really looking forward to them meeting again and seeing where it leads.
Mendoza's solo issue was packed full of emotion and just consequences for the actions of the past. Chuck, the jock who raped her friend Trish, and Sissy the cheerleader that tormented them have grown past their younger days and accepted Jesus into their hearts. Unfortunately for them, they ended up doing the one thing that most young people do from small towns when they grow up: They hide their actions behind God. And defend themselves by saying God has forgiven them, so of course the person they hurt will forgive them as well.
Life doesn't work like that, and while it was rough seeing these terrible things happen to them, I also felt no remorse either. The only person I felt bad for was their oldest son, who I feel didn't deserve what happened to him, and could be something that comes back to haunt Janey in the far future – if she has one that is. Like Janey herself says: “All that matters is consequences.” Which is something that has been coming up a lot lately in this book.
While I really enjoyed Mendoza's style in the olden days of his original mini-series, I think he's even better now. I mean what more can I say that I haven't before? I like his cartoony-curvy, and it looks even better in full color. There's a polished rawness to it that just appealing and he really set a bar that has continued to remain high with every artist that has joined the series since.
I do hope we get Mendoza doing art duties on more issues in the future, but I can understand letting others play around in his world as well. Another really good issue from Team Tramp!
Final Score: 4 High School Reunions out of 5
Action Lab: Danger Zone
Writers: Dan Mendoza
Pencilers: Dan Mendoza
Reviewer: Derrick T. Crow
Summary: She used to be Hollywood's hottest high priced call girl, until the bite of an undead john changed her into something deadly different! Now Janey Belle – the street walking dead with supernatural abilities and a copy of the infamous Necronomicon – roams the highways searching for answers as the... ZOMBIE TRAMP!
[SPOILERS!!]
Review: This issue Mendoza takes over both writing and artistry duties, something he hasn't done in since the original vol. 2 mini-series “The Taint Train of Terror.” Touted as the anniversary issue, after the events of last time I could've sworn the anniversary “reunion” was headed in another direction, but was completely wrong.
This issue sees another kind of reunion, not only has Mendoza returned to the book for a one issue special, but he decides to focus the story on a revenge tale for Janey, going all the way back to the most traumatic experience of her life, this offers up a brutal and honest resolution to a story that I didn't know till now actually needed it.
Not once did I think “I wonder if Janey will ever come across those who raped her and her best friend in high school,” until it finally happened this issue and immediately my brain clicked: “Oh yeah! This is actually perfect for a reunion issue!” Now, in this issue, Janey only ends up dealing with her best friend's rapist, her own rapist is still out there, something that may or may not ever come to pass with retribution. And that's okay, it may turn out to be overkill (heh) if Janey were to ever see resolution for her personal rapist's actions.
That all being said, I was little sad to see the Voodoo Queen not return this issue. Their reunion will have to wait a bit longer I suppose. However, the final panels do see an interesting idea brought up that will most undoubtedly be answered once she does run into the Voodoo Queen again. I am just really looking forward to them meeting again and seeing where it leads.
Mendoza's solo issue was packed full of emotion and just consequences for the actions of the past. Chuck, the jock who raped her friend Trish, and Sissy the cheerleader that tormented them have grown past their younger days and accepted Jesus into their hearts. Unfortunately for them, they ended up doing the one thing that most young people do from small towns when they grow up: They hide their actions behind God. And defend themselves by saying God has forgiven them, so of course the person they hurt will forgive them as well.
Life doesn't work like that, and while it was rough seeing these terrible things happen to them, I also felt no remorse either. The only person I felt bad for was their oldest son, who I feel didn't deserve what happened to him, and could be something that comes back to haunt Janey in the far future – if she has one that is. Like Janey herself says: “All that matters is consequences.” Which is something that has been coming up a lot lately in this book.
While I really enjoyed Mendoza's style in the olden days of his original mini-series, I think he's even better now. I mean what more can I say that I haven't before? I like his cartoony-curvy, and it looks even better in full color. There's a polished rawness to it that just appealing and he really set a bar that has continued to remain high with every artist that has joined the series since.
I do hope we get Mendoza doing art duties on more issues in the future, but I can understand letting others play around in his world as well. Another really good issue from Team Tramp!
Final Score: 4 High School Reunions out of 5
First World #3
C&W Creations LLC 2015
Created, Written & Illustrated by: Chris Campana
Coloured by: Ron Wybraniec
Lettered by: Brandon Bullock
Reviewer: Steven Leitman
Review: I’m a sucker for a good old fashioned other realm tale where dragons are real and characters don’t have to be human. The world Chris has created here started off a little rough around the edges but as he’s been able to tell more of it’s story it’s gotten so much better. It’s great to see someone able to write a story then bring it life himself through the artwork making it so much personal for the reader you can see the confidence in his work grow by leaps and bounds here.
I like the way this issue starts off. We get this not so much flashback as much as it is a memory of a young man’s life. How the actions of the past have shaped who he’s become and it’s highlighted by some extremely nice and dynamic artwork. Page five alone demonstrates what kind of bright future he has with what he can put on the page. Oh and the transition here from one character to another and the connection they share is done in a way we don’t normally see and the risk in something new pays off handsomely.
Rhis and his story continues here and the situation he finds himself in. From going to being in a cell to being on the run in a whirlwind of emotion that’s left him bewildered. Serna isn’t forthcoming with many answers but then she really doesn’t have them to give either and the talk they have and way they interact not only demonstrates that nicely but adds a little bit of mystery as if she doesn’t really know then why is following orders so blindly.
The appearance of Candall and his words of promise to help do little in soothing the immediate concern. Though it does make me want to learn what he knows and come back and see what his role and eventually Rhis’ really is. So before too much can be revealed they are interrupted by a Hunter who knows of Rhis and somehow it feels like he isn’t there to harm him but may possibly end up as a valued member of this group should any of them survive what Rhis is about to do. It’s nicely done and a little cliffhanger for this segment.
The rest of the issue shows us the other players in this story as we get to see how different each of them are and where they come from, how they think and a glimmer of why they are going to be important to the story and what they will bring with them. These little segments serve a greater purpose and that’s that they introduce you briefly to who’s who but it also makes you want to learn how all these characters will eventually come together.
This is a well crafted story that leaves more questions with each reveal so that while you get a chance to see and know these characters the bigger picture still hasn’t shown up nor how all these people have a connection to each other whether they know it or not. Each issue gets a little better than the one before and it’s so nice to see this kind of improvement and to find someone in Chris to support as his vision keeps coming to life and enjoying the heck out of it along the way.
With some truly great interior artwork and very well crafted storytelling this is something you should check out so go to firstworldcomic.com and get lost in a new fantasy world.
C&W Creations LLC 2015
Created, Written & Illustrated by: Chris Campana
Coloured by: Ron Wybraniec
Lettered by: Brandon Bullock
Reviewer: Steven Leitman
Review: I’m a sucker for a good old fashioned other realm tale where dragons are real and characters don’t have to be human. The world Chris has created here started off a little rough around the edges but as he’s been able to tell more of it’s story it’s gotten so much better. It’s great to see someone able to write a story then bring it life himself through the artwork making it so much personal for the reader you can see the confidence in his work grow by leaps and bounds here.
I like the way this issue starts off. We get this not so much flashback as much as it is a memory of a young man’s life. How the actions of the past have shaped who he’s become and it’s highlighted by some extremely nice and dynamic artwork. Page five alone demonstrates what kind of bright future he has with what he can put on the page. Oh and the transition here from one character to another and the connection they share is done in a way we don’t normally see and the risk in something new pays off handsomely.
Rhis and his story continues here and the situation he finds himself in. From going to being in a cell to being on the run in a whirlwind of emotion that’s left him bewildered. Serna isn’t forthcoming with many answers but then she really doesn’t have them to give either and the talk they have and way they interact not only demonstrates that nicely but adds a little bit of mystery as if she doesn’t really know then why is following orders so blindly.
The appearance of Candall and his words of promise to help do little in soothing the immediate concern. Though it does make me want to learn what he knows and come back and see what his role and eventually Rhis’ really is. So before too much can be revealed they are interrupted by a Hunter who knows of Rhis and somehow it feels like he isn’t there to harm him but may possibly end up as a valued member of this group should any of them survive what Rhis is about to do. It’s nicely done and a little cliffhanger for this segment.
The rest of the issue shows us the other players in this story as we get to see how different each of them are and where they come from, how they think and a glimmer of why they are going to be important to the story and what they will bring with them. These little segments serve a greater purpose and that’s that they introduce you briefly to who’s who but it also makes you want to learn how all these characters will eventually come together.
This is a well crafted story that leaves more questions with each reveal so that while you get a chance to see and know these characters the bigger picture still hasn’t shown up nor how all these people have a connection to each other whether they know it or not. Each issue gets a little better than the one before and it’s so nice to see this kind of improvement and to find someone in Chris to support as his vision keeps coming to life and enjoying the heck out of it along the way.
With some truly great interior artwork and very well crafted storytelling this is something you should check out so go to firstworldcomic.com and get lost in a new fantasy world.