BLUESPEAR GN (Com.X)
“A guardian watches over Tokyo. Nobody knows where he came from. Some say he was created by the Yurei, ghosts of the sea, sent to remind mortals that it is they, not men, that control mankind’s fate. Loved by many, vilified by few – he exacts swift justice on those who stand against him. Whatever he is, wherever he came from, one thing is certain – BlueSpear is here to stay!” Written by Andi Ewington, art by Cosmo White. Click here to read a review!

LAST OF THE GREATS vol. 1 TPB (Image)
For a ridiculously cheap price, you can read one of the best indie books to come out of 2011! By Joshua Hale Fialkov (Tumor, Echoes, I Vampire) and Brent Peeples comes a twisted tale of superheroes and revenge. When a group of superpowered beings come to Earth, and help save it, what is humanity’s response? Kill them all, of course! Now only one has survived, Last of the Greats, and humanity needs his help once again. Check out some reviews of this killer series!

DOMINIQUE LAVEAU: VOODOO CHILD #1 (Vertigo)
A brand new Vertigo series by Selwyn Sefu Hinds and Denys Cowan. In a sentence: New Orleans is considered the most haunted and magical place in the world, and the main character of the book, Dominique Laveau, will one day become the Voodoo Queen of this mystical planet.

SMOKE & MIRRORS #1 (IDW)
Ever see a magic trick performed through a comic book? Co-written by an actual sleight of hand magician, Jon Armstrong (he’s really good too, I saw him live at Magic Castle last month!), this book is filled with all the magic you’ll ever need. “Mike Costa (COBRA) teams with sleight-of-hand artist Jon Armstrong and acclaimed artist Ryan Browne in a story where a stage magician is thrust into a world where magic-not technology-rules, and is forced to use trickery and illusions to survive!”

REBEL BLOOD #1 (Image)
By Riley Rossmo, the artist of Green Wake & Proof, REBEL BLOOD is set in a post-apocalyptic world where everything – even animals – are turning into horrifying zombies! Everyone must do whatever it takes to survive. With the trippiest and scariest art you’ll see in comics, this is a must read for any zombie comics fans.

INFESTATION 2: TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #2 (IDW)
Lovecraftian horror has “infested” the IDW Universe (from Transformers to G.I. Joe), and while Infestation 2 may be hit or miss depending on what you’re into, this first issue of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles tie-in far exceeded expectations. It sounded cool to begin with- the TMNT going up against Lovecraftian horrors. Seems hard to screw up, and happily, Tristan Jones, Mark Torres, and Jay Fotos have done their jobs well. For a complete review of #1, click here!

RAGEMOOR #1 (Dark Horse)
By Richard Corben and John Strnad- “Ragemoor! A living castle, nurtured on pagan blood, harborer to deadly monsters! A fortress possessed of its own will and ability to change itself, with the power to add and destroy rooms and to grow without the help of any human hand. Its owner is mad with jealously, its servants aren’t human, and its secret’s horrific!” If you dig the Mignola-verse, you’ll probably dig RAGEMOOR!

ICHIRO GN (Houghton Mifflin Company)
“Ichiro lives in New York City with his Japanese mother. His father, an American soldier, was killed in Iraq. Now, Ichi’s mom has decided they should move back to Japan to live with Ichi’s grandfather. Grandfather becomes Ichi’s tour guide, taking him to temples as well as the Hiroshima Peace Park, where Ichi starts to question the nature of war. After a supernatural encounter with the gods and creatures of Japanese mythology, Ichi must face his fears if he is to get back home. In doing so, he learns about the nature of man, of gods, and of war.”

HOAX HUNTERS #0 (Image)
“‘GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER’ Cryptids. Aliens. Monsters. All the world’s bizarre secrets–what if they were real? Their existence would be debunked by a reality TV show! HOAX HUNTERS is that show, publicly disproving all variety of lore. But their real goal is the opposite: as the world’s dark corners surface, the HOAX HUNTERS cover them up. When a mysterious astronaut made of crows appears in Russia, the HOAX HUNTERS are on the case.” Written by Michael Moreci, art by J.M. Ringuet.

YOUNG MISS HOLMES TPB vol. 1 CASES 1-2 (Seven Seas Entertainment)
Christie Holmes is a prodigy. At 10-years old, she’s as familiar with the sciences and classics as any older student at Cambridge or Oxford. And her faculty for logic is as formidable as her uncle’s, the eminent consulting detective Sherlock Holmes himself! So, what’s a brilliant young girl to do when her parents are away in India, leaving her behind in the care of maids and servants? Solve mysteries, of course! Along with her giant hound Nelson, Christie’s implacable curiosity leads her from one adventure to another, often joining forces with Uncle Sherlock and Doctor Watson on their famed investigations. Written/Drawn by Yu Aida.

Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

SAGA #1 (Image)
“Star Wars-style action collides with Game of Thrones-esque drama in this original sci-fi/fantasy epic for mature readers, as new parents Marko and Alana risk everything to raise their child amidst a never-ending galactic war. The adventure begins in a spectacular DOUBLE-SIZED FIRST ISSUE, with forty-four pages of story with no ads for the regular price of just $2.99! Y: THE LAST MAN writer BRIAN K. VAUGHAN returns to comics with red-hot artist FIONA STAPLES for this all-new ongoing series!”

LAST MORTAL HC (Top Cow/Minotaur Press)
“Alec King is a born loser and a career failure. When he and his criminal partner get in over their heads with an attempted assassination of a mayoral candidate, Alec hits rock bottom and takes his own life. Only to discover he cannot die. Collecting the hard-hitting noir tale of revenge from Minotaur Press, this hard cover not only offers the complete series, but a wealth of behind-the-scenes bonus material including a complete cover gallery, character designs, and a look at the development of Last Mortal.”

SAUCER COUNTRY #1 (Vertigo)
“Arcadia Alvarado, the leading Democratic candidate for President of the United States, says she was ‘abducted by aliens.’ As the Mexican-American Governor of New Mexico, she’s dealing with immigration, budget cuts and an alcoholic ex. She’s about to toss her hat into the ring as a candidate for President in the most volatile political climate ever. But then a lonely road and a nightmarish encounter have left her with terrible, half-glimpsed memories. And now she has to become President. To expose the truth – and maybe, to save the world. Arcadia’s quest is at the heart of this new monthly series from writer Paul Cornell (DEMON KNIGHTS, ACTION COMICS, Doctor Who) and artist Ryan Kelly (NEW YORK FIVE, NORTHLANDERS). With the help of her quirky staff, Arcadia will pursue the truth of her abduction into danger, mystery and awe. SAUCER COUNTRY is a dark thriller that blends UFO lore and alien abduction with political intrigue, all set in the hauntingly beautiful Southwest.”

PRIMORDIA HC (Archaia)
“Two human infants are abandoned in an ancient forest and adopted by the strange creatures called Woodfolk. Driniel (Moon) is the night-wanderer, dancing with the spirits of the deep groves, summoning demons for his pleasure. Alleyar (Sun) is the flame of valor, rising in the ranks of the Woodfolk hunters and taming a fierce beast with his sorcery. More than human, less than gods, these misfit brothers will change the worlds of Gods and Mortals forever as they uncover the secrets of their own past and parentage.”

THE STUFF OF LEGEND vol. 3 TPB: JESTER’S TALE (Th3rd World Studios)
“Continuing the saga of the best-selling graphic novel! Following the shocking revelations of The Jungle, Jester embarks on a solo quest that will take him to the farthest corners of the Dark. High seas adventure awaits in The Stuff of Legends: A Jester’s Tale!” Click here for reviews of The Stuff of Legend, plus creator interviews!

QUEEN CRAB HC (Image)
“In the tradition of David Lynch and Stephen King comes the story of a young woman dealing with the insanity of the world around her. Meet Ginger, a twenty-something office girl that lives her life one boring day at a time until on her wedding night, her new husband tries to kill her…and it goes horribly wrong. This is a story of revenge, lust, violence and insanity brought to you by JIMMY PALMIOTTI (Jonah Hex, Painkiller Jane) and featuring the art of ARTIZ EIGUREN, as well as a cover by award winning illustrator SAS CHRISTIAN.”

WOMANTHOLOGY: HEROIC HC (IDW)
“Womanthology is a large-scale anthology showcasing the works of women in comics. It is created entirely by over 140 women of all experience levels, from young girls who love to create comics all the way up to top industry professionals. All of the short stories will center around our theme for this volume; Heroic. There will also be features, such as Professional How-Tos, a Kids/Teens section showcasing their works and giving tips, as well as a section dedicated to some Iconic female comic creators of the past, such as Nell Brinkley, and much more. Profits of this book will go towards the Charities of GlobalGiving.org.”

SECRET HISTORY OF DB COOPER #1 (Oni Press)
“The most infamous airline hijacker of all time, D.B. Cooper remains on the FBI’s most-wanted list almost 40 years after the crime. For the first time, the secret history of the man and the hijacking will be revealed. During the height of the Cold War, a fringe group within the C.I.A. wages a crusade on the deadliest battlefield of all: the mind. Aided by powerful psychotropic compounds, Cooper assists in a campaign of psychic assassination against the Soviets. But as he mentally and physically deteriorates, the line between two worlds blurs, and he goes rogue on his governmental overlords. MATURE THEMES”

FATHOM: KIANI vol. 2 #0 (Aspen)
“Vince Hernandez – writer / Oliver Nome – art / John Starr – colors The Blue’s fiercest warrior returns as FATHOM: KIANI vol 2 begins! In Volume One, she discovered her true identity. Later, she was labeled a dissident by her own people. Finally, she was killed by Aspen Matthews… Now, Kiani is back-and she’s pissed! This all-new Fathom saga kicks off with the return of one of the Aspen Universe’s favorite heroines, Kiani, as she returns to the awe-inspiring underwater world of the Blue seeking vengeance for her past! The neutral truce between the Humans and the Blue has taken an emotional toll on the inhabitants under the surface-and their future as a unified body remains uncertain. Now, all bets are off as Kiani’s true power and capabilities-as well as shocking secrets from the past– are revealed in this pulse-pounding zero issue! Brought to you by Vince Hernandez, Oliver Nome and John Starr, this debut zero issue features a brand-new 12-page story that sets the stage for next month’s upcoming premiere of FATHOM: KIANI vol 2 #1. Accompanied by an additional sketchbook section and never before seen designs and art, make sure to dive right in and pick up, FATHOM: KIANI!!”

CROSSED: BADLANDS #1 (Avatar)
“The year of the Crossed begins this March 14th on ‘C-Day’, the date the infection spreads and this new ongoing series launches! Since its inception, Garth Ennis’ Crossed has captured the imagination of horror fans. The vicious and merciless world of the Crossed has pushed hardcore horror storytelling to the brink and now with the release of Crossed: Badlands, it goes beyond. Join us as the original Crossed creative team returns! Garth Ennis launches the all-new ongoing BI-WEEKLY series with the fellow horror luminary, artist Jacen Burrows. What is to follow is nothing short of ground breaking survival horror at its best and most frightening. Even better, a new issue will be coming out every 2 weeks! Picture the cruelest affronts to decency. Conjure your darkest nightmares… and then realize it could all be so much worse. When civilization crumbles in one terrifying moment; when people are gleefully breaking into unthinkable acts of violence all around you; when everyone you love has died screaming in agony: What do you do? There is no help. There is no hope. There is no escape. There is only the Crossed.”

Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

Darkness #100 (Top Cow)
This issue concludes Phil Hester’s epic run on the title character, and is the perfect jump-on point for this long-standing Top Cow title! “As Darkness bearer, Jackie Estacado comes face-to-face with the source of his power and misery – the Darkness itself!”

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Micro Series- Donatello #1 (IDW)
These TMNT one-shots spotlighting each Turtle have been excellent so far, and they provide great check-in points for the new TMNT continuity. This time the dude who “does machines” gets the spotlight as Donatello goes incognito to get the digs on the latest tech… only it’s a science fair led by the insidious Baxter Stockman who’s out to discover the latest Turtle killing machines! Click here for a review of IDW’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1.

Samurai’s Blood vol. 1 TPB (Image)
This one’s for you wandering Ronin out there! “In feudal Japan, an era when lineage defined you, three teenagers must make their way through the world hiding their identities in order to find their destinies. As their village burns behind them, they are headed for a city they’d heard about only in stories. The three young samurai must now struggle to stay alive and take vengeance on the evil usurper who has destroyed the rest of their clan and the only world they’d ever known. Will they rise on the tides of vengeance, or they will they fall on the swords of fate?” Check out reviews of all the issues!

Orc Stain #7 (Image)
‘THE ROAD TO REKANDA TOR,’ Part One Hoping to evade the bulk of the Orc Tzar’s invading mob, One-Eye and his companions decide to make a break for the ancient mountainside stronghold of Rekanda Tor. Only a vicious army of the enigmatic Beard’s poison throwing Shakatuu stand in their way.

Empowered Deluxe Edition vol. 1 HC (Dark Horse)
By Adam Warren- if you’re looking for the funniest and smartest super heroine in comics – this is it! This book will deconstruct any notions you have about the Damsel in Distress. Emp is sometimes awkward and self-conscious, but when it’s time to save the day, she’s strong and more powerful than anything else on the planet. This awesome HC collects the first 3 trades of the series, along with tons of extras.

Scalped #56 (Vertigo)
“The searing final arc starts here in ‘Trail’s End’ part one. Beginning months after last issue’s shocking finale, we pick up with the citizens of the Prairie Rose Rez, some of whom have found a peace they never could have imagined, while others are in more trouble than ever – with at least one person plotting his next move from behind bars.” There’s a reason why this title clocked in at #3 of our Top 11 Indie Comics of 2011 list!

Vescell #6 (Image)
“Story ENRIQUE CARRION art / cover JOHN UPCHURCH ‘WINGS OF THE RIGHTEOUS’ True Love soars once again, as Machi emerges from her rite of passage. And the return of every body’s favorite badass Cyborg… Batan.” Click here for reviews of this series!

Spaceman #4 (Vertigo)
On the run and running out of time, Orson’s life can’t get any worse – until a bounty hunter gets on his tail. Trouble is, this ain’t no ordinary detective. He’s a spaceman, too. Don’t miss the series that H.G. Wells calls ‘the comic I wish I was alive to read!’

Infestation 2 Team Up one-shot (IDW)
“Chris Ryall (w) o Alan Robinson (a) o Eric Powell, Bill Morrison (c) A special Leap Year 5th-week release! Bat Boy meets up at a bar with Groom Lake’s Archibald to drunkenly discuss event comics like Infes2ation! Eric Powell and Bill Morrison provide covers! The Weekly World News creative team of Ryall & Robinson reunite here! What more do we have to say, people?! Celebrate February 29 in pointy-eared style”

Unwritten #34.5 (Vertigo)
“On the battlefields of the First World War, old myths die and new ones are born: The Crucified Soldier. The Comrade in White. The Corpse Factory. The Poison Rain. As the balance between reality and fiction tilts crazily in the crucible of war, a young Wilson Taylor has an experience that will change his life forever.”

Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

Prophet #22 (Image)
By Brandon Graham & Simon Roy, the latest issue of this killer sci-fi series is out today! You can’t say you’re a modern sci-fi fan until you’vre read Prophet. Just look at that cover! #21 is the new jumping on point, and most stores should still have some second prints from last week (first print is pretty tough to come by), and if you’re into meta science fiction like Dune or Alejandro Jodorowski’s Metabarons, do not skip this series! Oh, also don’t be disuaded by the numbering- this series is picking up where it left off in the 90s, but I didn’t read the book back then and I’m totally fine just picking it up now.

No Place Like Home #1 (Image)
“Story by Angelo Tirotto,  art / cover by Richard Jordan. ‘HOME AGAIN’ Dee’s life is in turmoil when her parents are killed in a freak tornado. Returning to Kansas for the funeral after five years in LA, Dee discovers Emeraldsville is the same unexciting place it was when she left – until the bizarre unexplained murders begin. With an unknown killer closing in, the events of one night in 1959 begin to unravel as a portal to a world of horror opens, a portal paved with yellow bricks…”

Goliath HC (Drawn and Quarterly)
I read this last night because it sounded intriguing- This book by Tom Gauld is the story of the Old Testament fable, “David and Goliath,” but this time from Goliath’s point of view. It’s simple in design and very well done. I highly recommend it. The solicit puts it best: “Goliath of Gath isn’t much of a fighter. Given half a choice, he would pick admin work over patrolling in a heartbeat, to say nothing of his distaste for engaging in combat. Nonetheless, at the behest of the king he finds himself issuing a twice-daily challenge to the Israelites. Day after day he reluctantly repeats his speech, and the isolation of this duty gives him the chance to banter with his shield-bearer and reflect on the beauty of his surroundings. This is the story of David and Goliath as seen from Goliath’s side of the Valley of Elah. Goliath’s battle is simultaneously tragic and bleakly funny, as bureaucracy pervades even this most mythic of figures.”

Amazing Mysteries: Bill Everett Archives vol. 1 HC (Fantagraphics)
Also picked this up yesterday. Haven’t read it yet, but I’m a sucker for this cool looking old stuff and to get some previously un-reprinted oldies from the Golden Age of comics? Total score! “Amazing Mysteries: The Bill Everett Archives is a stunning companion to 2010′s critically acclaimed Fire and Water. This volume collects over 200 pages of never-before-reprinted, beautifully restored, full-color stories from one of comic books’ greatest visionaries and most accomplished artists. The resulting package enhances Everett’s place in history as one of the first and best comic-book creators of all time.”

Explorer: The Mystery Boxes TPB (Amulet Books)
This one’s for the kiddos folks! “Explorer is an exciting anthology of short graphic works by established artists and innovative newcomers in the comics and animation fields, who have each created a unique story on a central theme: a mysterious box and the marvels – or mayhem – inside. Collected and edited by the New York Times bestselling comics creator, Kazu Kibuishi, these well-written, beautifully-illustrated stories reflect a range of styles from the humorous to the fantastic.”

Fallen Angel is probably one of those titles you’ve never heard of, even though it’s written by one of the best guys to put words to paper in the industry, Peter David (X-Factor, Incredible Hulk). It stars Liandra, an angel cast out of Heaven by God, as she patrols the city of Bete Noir, which is a purgatory type of place inhabited by an array of Biblical characters, gangsters, politicians, swindlers, and pretty much every other unsavory type you can think of. Liandra kicks ass first and asks questions later, and when she’s not busting skulls she can be found in the local pub slamming beers with the best of them. She’s not your typical protagonist in that she swears, manipulates, and acts promiscuous if the occasion calls for it, yet she still sticks to her own moral code which is overall, a good one. What really makes this series though, is the stunningly beautiful artwork by J.K. Woodward. Woodward has painted every single panel of this series since IDW picked it up from DC way back in 2005. Honestly, I’m shocked Woodward hasn’t broken into the Big 2 yet, since his style is unique and pleasing to the eye, but I assume it’s only a matter of time. Check out an interview with Woodward as he talks about Fallen Angel: Return of the Son.

10. Super Dinosaur (Image)

This one made the list because in my opinion it has rejuvenated kids comics- especially for boys. Man, I wish this series existed when I was a kiddo. It stars a 10 year old genius boy and his best friend, a battle suit wearing T-Rex named Super Dinosaur (SD for short)! Using their gizmos and weapons, the duo takes on the bad guys, which includes a mad scientist and his cadre of dino warriors. It’s fun stuff, and if you have a little boy in the family who needs to read more, this is an easy one to give him and get him hooked early. The best part? It’s written by The Walking Dead creator, Robert Kirkman. Who knew that guy was so versatile? Plus, Jason Howard’s artwork is loaded with the action needed to retain any kid’s attention.

9. Severed (Image)

Back in 2010 Scott Snyder redefined the vampire genre with American Vampire, and in 2011 he redefined horror comics along with co-writer Scott Tuft, in Severed. Why? Because it focuses more on story telling and pacing to make your skin crawl as opposed to B movie violence and gore. This book has one issue to go before completion (7 in all), and it has been one of the creepiest slow burns I’ve ever read in the sequential form. I say “slow burn” because there’s a lot of character and very little action, but because of this the tension and evil just lingers throughout the entire series. From the turn of the century setting, to the beautiful art by Attila Futaki, Severed works because it doesn’t try too hard to creep you out. It’s almost too organic, and the main villain will make your skin crawl.

8. Miss Don’t Touch Me vol. 1 & 2 TPB (NBM)

Ok, so I’m quasi-cheating here since both of these Miss Don’t Touch Me volumes are technically reprints, however, they have both been unavailable for years until this past February. If the title alone doesn’t grab your attention, that cover art certainly will, and once you’ve begun reading this series, you’ll finish both books in one sitting. Like Severed, Ms. Don’t Touch Me is rich in character, taking place in Paris during the 1930s, starring a young girl whose sister is murdered but the cops don’t seem to care. Why? Because she was a prostitute and seemingly one of many in a slew of murders conducted by a serial killer. So what does the young girl do? She joins the most astute brothel in Paris under the moniker “Miss Don’t Touch Me,” where she serves as the place’s dominatrix in order to sniff out her sister’s killer. It’s excellent, and one I would highly recommend to anyone who favors a witty and clever female protagonist. Written by Hubert, art by Kerascoet.

7. Terry Moore’s Echo (Abstract Studios)

Beginning in 2008, Terry Moore’s latest creator owned series, Echo, came to an end last year. Spanning 30 issues in all its black and white glory, Moore pulled off an engaging super hero/sci-fi story that I would strongly suggest any man purchase for his lady if he wants to get her into comics. And to the ladies reading this- if you’re looking for a female character with guts, look no further. Moore is known as the guy who gets women reading comics, and Echo is a great example as to why. The art is simple, yet detailed, expressive, and flat out beautiful- especially his faces. Julie, the book’s main character, is a victim of circumstance and is extremely endearing, and the supporting cast is charming as they show their integrity throughout the story. Pick up the complete collection. It’s worth it.

6. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (IDW)

My Turtles bias may be shining through here a little, but in terms of revivals/reboots/relaunches of 2011 (and there were a lot of them), I strongly believe that the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ongoing takes the pizza. While it’s a fresh take on the TMNT and their origin (which allows for a great entry point for new readers), the fact that TMNT co-creator, Kevin Eastman, is involved gives it legitimacy to the older Turtles fans, and the story delivers. There’s true passion in this series, and it’s evident from the 5 issues and 2 one-shots published last year that the Turtles have staying power in today’s market, which is amazing considering this franchise has had an up and down relationship with comic readers since its inception in 1984. Now though, comic fans (not just TMNT fans) are giving this book a try and the results have been pretty damn positive. This series is plotted by Kevin Eastman, written by Tom Waltz and features artwork by Dan Duncan. Read my full review of #1 here.

5. Tale of Sand HC (Archaia)

If there was a “coolest graphic novel” award for 2011, Tale of Sand would be the recipient. The fact that Archaia Entertainment was able to discover a previously unpublished Jim Henson screen play and interpret it in comic book form as the major medium for it to hit the public eye, is truly remarkable. There are no muppets or puppets in this one- it’s straight up a journey of one man and the choices he makes. Check out my podcast interview with Tale of Sand artist, Ramon Perez, from June 2011 on site at the Jim Henson studio Lot in Hollywood!

4. Sweet Tooth (Vertigo)

Jeff Lemire. This guy completely won me over in 2011. His work on DC’s Animal Man and Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E. introduced me to comics I never thought I’d care about (seriously, both are phenomenal and would be on this list if it weren’t solely indie books), but it’s Sweet Tooth that has been his home run title since it first debuted in 2009. The reason why it made the Top Indie Comics of 2011 List though, is because of the storyline that began in #26, featuring guest artist, Matt Kindt. For the first time in a long, long time, this story arc (which concluded with #28) evoked an emotional response from me that turned into physical tears. I won’t spoil why, but man, it’s a gripping story, and those three issues can be read independently of the rest of the series. Although, it does shed some light on what has been happening since issue #1, and the way Lemire is tying everything together is beginning to make uncomfortable sense…

3. Scalped (Vertigo)

Holy fuck all this series will blow you away. Wonder why the name Jason Aaron has been popping up all over Marvel for comics like Wolverine, X-Men, and The Incredible Hulk? It’s probably because of Aaron’s phenomenal work on this book since issue #1. 2011 saw the second to last story arc of this series come to a close, and shone some ugly light on the supporting cast, while putting our main character, Dash Bad Horse, through some seriously fucked up shit. That’s the thing about this book that makes it unlike any other- you love to fucking hate everybody. There’s no good guy. Everyone has some sort of terrible character flaw that makes them unforgivable, yet as a reader you can’t help but stare as you watch each character self destruct. It’s so fucking good, and series artist R.M. Guerra needs to win a fucking medal for the work he’s put into this series. Any male comic reader can’t consider themselves a real man until they’ve read Scalped.

2. Echoes HC (Top Cow/Minotaur Press)

If we were giving out a most fucked up writer award, Joshua Hale Fialkov would win it for his work on this book and his new ongoing through Image which debuted last year, Last of the Greats. Echoes is an excellent gateway comic for new readers, and it’s usually one of the first books I show my new customers. Experienced readers can get into it even more, as it presents a story they’ve never seen before. It’s messed up, seriously messed up, and the entire time you’re reading there’s an air of uneasiness that won’t go away. It stars a schizophrenic man whose father tells him, upon his death bed, an address. When the son goes to this address, what he finds there horrifies him to the core and leads him to question everything he thought he knew about his late father. Did I mention he’s also schizophrenic? It’s intense and dark, evil and pitiable. Plus, Rahsan Ekedal’s artwork adds an element of storytelling that no other artist would be able to pull off and make this book work so damn well. His black and white style accurately portrays character expression and emotion, which is just as crucial to telling this story as Fialkov’s words. If you’re looking for a self contained comic to make you question good as you know it, read Echoes.

1. Our Love Is Real (Self Published/Image)

Well, this is the Top 11 Indie Comics of 2011 list, and it wouldn’t be complete without having a truly indie published comic on it. Our Love Is Real is that book, and it takes the cake and smashes it all over your face and man-bits… then licks it off. Everywhere. Originally self-published by writer/creator Sam Humphries for 4 printings, and then later picked up by Image, Our Love Is Real proves that you can get it done solo with indie comics (just like TMNT in the 80s!) and make a splash in today’s Big 2 over-saturated market. Of course, Humphries had to work his ass off to make that happen, but he did and it was a glowing success. Seriously- first prints of this comic are still selling at $100 on ebay. That’s insane for a modern day title! The story is worth it too, taking place in a future world where sex with animals has become the norm, so people have branched out to unite themselves with… other things. It’s hilarious, but also shockingly relevant to today’s social struggles in the United States. What’s more, is that Humphries did it again this past December, self publishing another new series called Sacrifice, and not surprisingly, it’s just as successful as Our Love Is Real online and in stores. I highly recommend both. When you’re reading these comics you begin to seriously wonder about the books you’re buying lately and think, “Why not indie?”

Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

Lady Mechanika #3
Aspen Comics’ indisputable hit continues this week after a few month hiatus. Written, drawn, and created by Steampunk Daddy, Joe Benitez, Lady Mechanika is a solid score for fans of the genre, or for dudes looking to get their ladies into comics. “Lady Mechanika’s quest to retrieve the ‘Mechanical Girl’ along with her mysterious maker takes her up to the clouds, where she must infiltrate a masquerade ball aboard Lord Blackpool’s airship high in the sky. While the nefarious Blackpool showcases a new advanced weapon added to his impressive armament catalog to a captive audience, Mechanika discovers something quite unexpected, that may hold a clue to her own creation!” Click here for a review of this issue.

The Stuff of Legend: The Jester’s Tale #3
The Stuff of Legend is the book that put Th3rd World Studios on the map, and rightfully so. It’s an excellent series with an original story concept; a little boy is abducted by the Boogie Man and pulled into the realm of The Dark. His toys then come to life and mount a rescue party to bring the boy back into our realm. It’s an all-ages title, but one that is easily enjoyed by older readers as well. It’s one of my top indie titles of all time. Written by Mike Raicht & Brian Smith, art by Charles Paul Wilson III. Click here for an archive of reviews and interviews. Also out this week is Mike Raicht’s, The Pack #2, a werewolf story with college kids!

Baltimore: The Plague Ships vol. 1 TPB
Fans of Mike Mignola, horror, vampires and military history need to read this book! It’s fucking awesome. Set in the wake of WWI and starring an ex-soldier, Lord Baltimore, who traverses Europe in search of vampires… to kill! Written by Mike Mignola with art by Christopher Golden. Published by Dark Horse. Click here for a review of the first issue, which debuted in August 2010.

Strange Girl Omnibus HC
So how many people in the room are reading Uncanny X-Force? Wow, that’s a lot of you! Well guess what? Before Rick Remender hit it big time with that series, he did this post apocalyptic title featuring a girl and her friend demon. Now, for the first time, the entire series is collected in one sexy hardcover! “Ten years after the Rapture, a beautiful occultist and her pet demon embark on a road trip to the last open gateway to heaven, in hopes of befriending God and escaping hell on earth.” The book features various artists, one of whom I’m sure most of you will recognize- Jerome Opena! Published by Image.

Memorial #1
By Chris Roberson, the writer of iZombie, MEMORIAL is a solid read for fantasy fans. “Memorial is the story of Em, a young woman who arrives at a hospital in Portland, Oregon with no memory of her past. A year later, she has rebuilt her life, only to find her existence thrown into turmoil after she inherits a magical shop. The kind that appears in an alley one instance and disappears the next. Em is drawn into a supernatural conflict between beings that not only represent, but are, fundamental elements of the universe itself.” Art by Rich Ellis, published by IDW.

The Lil’ Depressed Boy vol. 00 TPB
“For the first time in print: Before disastrous road trips. Before style-points. Before Jazmin. Join LDB as he takes his first steps on his search for love. Told in shades of blue with artwork by Sam Keith, Jim Mahfood, Jim Valentino and many more. Including never before seen artwork and an exclusive all-new story drawn by Sina Grace.” Check out an in-depth look at vol. 1! Published by Image.

The Activity #1
By Nate Edmonson, writer of Grifter and the best spy book of the year, Who is Jake Ellis?, THE ACTIVITY features the super secret intelligence group, Gray Fox, the best of the best in Military special ops. They use the most start of the art technology in order to save the world from global warfare; Yes, these guys are bad ass. Published by Image, art by Mitch Gerads. Click here to read a review of this issue.

Ratfist TPB
“Earthworm Jim creator Doug Tennapel is publishing his webcomic RATFIST, a vigilante-in-tights that satirizes comics, politics, philosophy, and even Tennapel himself! Featuring a forward written by MST3K/RiffTraxx’s Michael J. Nelson, and pinups by Ryan Ottley, Scott Kurtz, Christopher Hastings and Ethan Niccole!” Published by Image. Be sure to swing by Ratfist.com, too!

Immortal: Demon in the Blood #1
This book has a pretty rad concept, tying in tattoos with samurai. “Wrongly branded a traitor by his fellow samurai, Amane is attacked and left for dead. When he is found by a mysterious tattoo artist, his life is saved–and changed forever! Connected to an immortal oni through a mystical tattoo, he creates a new life for himself as Enma, an apprentice tattooist. But Enma’s new life comes at a price he has yet to realize . . .” Based on a novel from Japan, published by Dark Horse.

Richelle Mead’s Dark Swan: Storm Born vol. 1 HC
“Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she’s been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures. When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld’s most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past…” Written by Richelle Mead & Grant Alter, art by Dave Hamann, and published by Sea Lion Books. Click here for a review of this HC.

You Are A Cat: Pick A Plot SC
Ok, this probably doesn’t really belong here, but fuck it- it’s a choose your own adventure story from the P.O.V. of a cat. I like all those things, and I’m probably going to pick this up, just for shits and giggles. “Focusing on a dysfunctional family, but told through the eyes of their cat. A third of the book is lavishly illustrated from the feline first-person floor perspective. The different choices you make affect people and events!” Apparently, this is only the first of many. Oh, boy… Published by Conundrum Press.

Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

Looking for a great indie read this week? We’ve got you covered every Monday with Indie Watch! In this column you’ll find quick hit previews of select indie titles due out each week. Stuff that’s worth a buy- or at least a look- when you visit your local comic book store for your weekly fix. From graphic novels to single issues, we’ve got our eye on indie!

Everlast HC
Archaia Entertainment dominates indie releases this week, pumping out a plethora of HC’s, many of them spotlighted here in this column. Everlast is a pre-apocalyptic tale, following Derek Everlast, a man whose destiny in life is guiding others to a place of rebirth for mankind called ‘Haven’. Following an instinct called the Nudge, bestowed upon him by a higher power, Derek is guided to the next chosen human destined to survive, a little girl named Melissa, who he must deliver safely to Haven before the End of Days. Created and written by actor Chad Michael Murray of One Tree Hill fame. This book is written by Chad Michael Murray, and features various artists, one of them being a personal favorite of mine, J.K. Woodward of Fallen Angel fame.

A Tale of Sand HC
This book should be purchased by any fans of Jim Henson. It’s one of his long lost screen plays, recently discovered and adapted into comic book form. What’s unique about this particular piece is that it’s an almost psychedelic journey, but without any puppets or muppets. The story “follows scruffy everyman, Mac, who wakes up in an unfamiliar town, and is chased across the desert of the American Southwest by all manners of man and beast of unimaginable proportions.” Click here to listen to a podcast interview with A Tale of Sand artist, Ramon Perez, and to see some preview pages from the book. Published by Archaia Entertainment.

Nightly News Anniversary Edition HC
If you don’t know who Jonathan Hickman is by now, than you aren’t reading awesome comics. Hickman’s debut on the comics scene was this book, Nightly News, back in 2006. Since then he has gone on to make a name for himself not only in indie comics (Pax Romana), but also with Marvel with his steampunk-esque book depicting the origins of the Marvel Universe,  S.H.I.E.L.D. and his epic run on Fantastic Four and FF. Now fans can own Nightly News in a sleek over-sized HC edition, which not only contains the entire story but a bunch of extras, too. This story is one for conspiracy theorists and anti-media hounds. Overly sensitive people should stay far, far away. Written and drawn by Jonathan Hickman, published by Image.

Jim Henson’s The Storyteller HC
An anthology book published by Archaia, and featuring various artists and writers, is another must read for all Henson enthusiasts. “The much-loved, live-action/puppet combination TV show is now a graphic novel series! Archaia and The Jim Henson Company are proud to present ALL-NEW tales of fantastic wonder and extraordinary myth, as told from the tongue of The Storyteller and his loyal canine companion! Witness worded wonderment from a cavalcade of crafty creators, including Roger Langridge, Marjorie Liu, Ron Marz, Jeff Parker, Francesco Francavilla, J.L. Meyer, Janet Lee and many more! Plus: A never-before-seen story adapted from a screenplay by The Storyteller’s original author, Academy Award Winner Anthony Minghella!” Click here to read a review.

Fables vol. 16: Super Team TPB
The latest collected installment of Bill Willingham’s most excellent fantasy series is finally released this week! In my humble opinion, this was the best arc since (SPOILER ALERT!) the fables outed The Adversary from The Homelands. This chapter picks up where #100 left off as Mr. Dark makes his last attempt to annihilate the Fables. Knowing an attack is imminent, Pinocchio uses his comic book knowledge to assemble a team of Fabled superheroes! Art by Mark Buckingham, published by Vertigo, although this book does include a one-shot story dawn by indie favorite, Terry Moore!

Clive Barker Omnibus
“Master story-teller Clive Barker is no stranger to graphic novel adaptations to his work, and this massive omnibus collects three of his IDW projects! This volume starts off with The Thief of Always, illustrated by Gabriel Hernandez, moves on to the epic twelve-part The Great and Secret Show, and ends with Seduth, both illustrated by Eisner-nominated artist Gabriel Rodriguez. With no shortage of sprawling high-concept, spine-chilling thrills, and inspired art, the Clive Barker Omnibus is a great launching point into his dark universe.” Published by IDW.

Killing Pickman HC
Yet another cool looking release from Archaia this week, this time of the horror/crime fiction variety! “Homicide Detective William Zhu has just made the arrest of his career. With the apprehension of Richard Pickman he has solved over 100 missing child cases, some of which date back over 30 years. Frustrated with his role of clean-up man to the detritus of the world, Zhu makes what may be a fatal mistake: He decides to kill Pickman. Fatal, for Richard Pickman is no ordinary psychopath – a demon has granted Pickman near immortality. Killing Pickman is going to be a lot tougher than Zhu could have imagined.” Written by Jason Becker, art by Jon Rea. Click here to read a review.

Red Wing TPB
So you’re already picking up Jonathan Hickman’s Nightly News Deluxe HC, so why not also check out his latest indie series, Red Wing, in TPB form? Red Wing is what Hickman does best- straight up science fiction. It stars futuristic dog fighter pilots who use time travel in order to elude and get the drop on their opponents! Of course, there’s more to it than that, but I don’t want to give anything away here. Art by Nick Pitarra, published by Image.

Chuck Jones: The Dream That Never Was HC
“Celebrating the 2012 centennial of Chuck Jones’s birth, IDW’s Library of American Comics unveils Chuck Jones: The Dream That Never Was. The Academy Award-winning director of ‘Duck Amuck,’ ‘What’s Opera, Doc,’ ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’ and other timeless classics, created dozens of cartoon characters throughout his decades-long career: Pepé Le Pew, Marvin the Martian, Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote… and Crawford, an accident prone, nine-year-old boy whose daily routine includes surviving his own boyhood. Chuck Jones: The Dream That Never Was follows the twenty-seven year journey it took Jones to bring ‘Crawford’ to the public, from conception to storyboard to newspaper strip. This incredible volume is loaded with never before seen sketches, drawings, storyboards and production notes, and the six-month run of the Crawford newspaper comic strip from 1978.”

Super Dinosaur Coloring Book
If any of you know of a young male comic book fan, this coloring book is the perfect stocking stuffer! It’s based off of the Image Comics series by Robert Kirkman, featuring dinosaurs and robots beating up bad guys! Awesome!!!

Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

Rasl #12
Jeff Smith’s current creator owned series of a dimension hopping scientist continues this week, as the series gears up to its conclusion. If you’ve read Smith’s most popular series, Bone, don’t assume that Rasl is a good one to give to the kids. It’s not. There’s violence, heavy drinking, and plenty of sexual encounters. It’s also one of the most compelling indie books out there. Too bad it only comes out a handful of times a year from Cartoon Books.

KAPOW: Guinness World Record Special one-shot
I think the official solicit info sells this one best: “In April 2011, Mark Millar, Frank Quitely, Dave Gibbons, John Romita Jr, Leinil Yu, Paul Cornell, Andy Diggle, Jock, Duncan Fegrado, Sean Phillips and over fifty other comic-book creators joined forces with Kapow to break not one but TWO Guinness World Records – the fastest comic-book ever produced and the biggest number of creators working on a single comic. The Kapow Special stars Superior and was written, penciled, inked and lettered in less than 12 hours! All proceeds from the sales of this comic will go to Yorkhill Sick Children’s Hospital in Scotland and the print-run for this book will be limited to just 10,000 copies.” Also, Kick-Ass #5 is out this week. Published by Marvel’s Icon imprint.

Princeless #1
Have a little lady in the house and want her to get into comics? This new all-ages series may be the book for you! It stars Adrienne, a little princess who is tired of waiting to be rescued. With Sparky her guardian dragon, Adrienne begins a quest to save herself! Written by Jeremy Whitley, art by M. Goodwin. Published by Action Lab Entertainment.

Terry Moore’s How to Draw #2: Expressions

While technically not a comic book, this “How to Draw” series published by Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise, Echo, Rachel Rising) should be picked up by all indie comic enthusiasts. Moore is one of the best indie creators out there, publishing all his work through his own company, Abstract Studios. Plus, if there’s just a few artists who should be publishing how to draw books, especially when beautiful women are involved, Terry Moore should be one of those artists. Just a heads up that the second printing of Rachel Rising #1, his latest series, is also out this week.

Heavy Metal Magazine vol. 35 #8
Speaking of commendable artwork… I absolutely love this magazine. You won’t find a better dosage of mind boggling WTF!? than in-between the pages of Heavy Metal! Containing short stories by comic creators old and new from all over the world, Heavy Metal is a mag to be read by people who use drugs. Note: Picture is not of the actual cover.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ultimate Collection HC vol. 1
Classic, grass roots indie strikes again! Finally, after years of being out of print, the first 7 issues of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, plus the Raphael one-shot, can be read in all their mutant glory. Previously difficult to acquire without shelling out some coin, the first ever TMNT stories by creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird can now exist in your comic book collection in a sturdy over-sized hardcover. This is the first thing I’m reading this week. If your shop still has some copies, be sure to check out the new ongoing from IDW.

Milk and Cheese: Dairy Products Gone Bad HC
Another true indie gem, this time published by Dark Horse. Here’s the solicit: “A carton of hate. A wedge of spite. A comic book of idiotic genius. This deluxe hardcover collects every single stupid Milk and Cheese comic ever made from 1989 to 2010, along with a sh*t-ton of supplemental awesomeness.” Get inside the creator’s head in an interview with Evan Dorkin. This guy loves his Milk and Cheese. 

Parker the Martini Edition HC
Serious confession here: I have never read either Richard Stark’s Parker: The Hunter nor Parker: The Outfit. However, I couldn’t be more pumped to pop my cherry with this hot, steamy slipcase edition from IDW Publishing. Not only does it collect those two books in oversized format, but it also includes 65 pages of new material, including an all-new story, from creator Darwyn Cooke! This is one of those instances where you hold your Marvel or DC stack in your hand and ask yourself, “Seriously. Why [the fuck] not indie?”

Super Dinosaur vol. 1 TPB
Let me be absolutely clear: If you have a son at home who’s 14 or under, buy him this book! It stars a 10 year old boy genius and his best buddy, a T-Rex called Super Dinosaur, who use their cool home-designed battle suits to fight the bad guys! It’s such a fun comic, and I wish it existed when I was a kid. It’s written by The Walking Dead creator, Robert Kirkman, and features energetic art by Jason Howard. Keep an eye out for the coloring book, and don’t be surprised if other merchandise starts to pop up along the way! Published by Image, collects issues #1-#5 & the Origin Special one-shot.

The Adventures of Herge HC
Written by Jose-Louis Bocquet & Jean-Luc Fromental, art by Stanislas Barthelemy. The Adventures of Herge is for one who cultivates a more cultured sequential pallete, seeped in history. “A biographical comic about the world-renowned comics artist Georges Prosper Remi, better known by his pen name, Hergé. Meticulously researched, with references to many of the Tintin albums and complete with a bibliography and mini-bios for each of the main ‘characters,’ the biography is appropriately drawn in Hergé’s iconic clear line style as an homage to the Tintin adventures that have commanded the attention of readers across the world and of many generations.” Published by Drawn and Quarterly.

Follow on Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack

Mud Man #1
 By Paul Grist, creator of the greatest British superhero, Jack Staff,
this book features a brand new teenage superhero
who is able to turn into and manipulate…MUD!
It sounds weird and quirky, but that can only be a good
thing when it comes to Paul Grist. Published by Image.

 Hawken #1
Written and drawn by Tim Truman, of Conan fame! Truman co-writes
this weird west story with his son, Ben. “Scout, hunter, raider, killer-for-hire:
Kitchell Hawken has been many things-most of them bad. Scalped, tortured,
and left for dead by the mysterious order called the Ring, Hawken returns,
seeking vengeance… but surrounded by the ghosts of every person he’s ever killed!”
Published by IDW.

68 Hardship one-shot
The series that combined zombies with the Vietnam War, now comes home stateside. In 1968, an American soldier returns home after serving in the war. Problem is, “Charlie”
and his army of undead may have come back with him… Written by Mark Kidwell, art by Jeff Zornow & Jay Fotos. Published by Image.

Pilot Season: Seraph #1
Top Cow’s stream of new Pilot Season one-shots continues this week with Seraph! Once all the Pilot Season 2011 #1 issues are released, you the fan can go to the
Top Cow website and vote for your favorite. The winner is awarded with a mini-series published by Top Cow! Here’s the lowdown on Seraph: “The angelic warrior now known
only as Seraph was once a sinner. After living a life of selfishness and sin, personal tragedy drove him to kill himself. Plucked on his way to Hell by Heaven, the man was made Heaven’s soldier in an endless battle. Charged with fighting an ancient war, but bound by God’s law, can Seraph triumph over opponents not restricted in the same way and regain his faith in the process?” Written by Lance Briggs & Phil Hester, art by Jose Luis. Published by Image.

Xenoholics #2
  The zany story of alien abducts who like getting…erm, “probed,” continues this week. If you missed #1, pick that up too, and for a
podcast interview with series writer, Joshua Williamson, click here! Published by Image.

Who Is Jake Ellis? TPB
 This would be my recommendation of the week. It’s a crime fiction story
with a twist that will keep you guessing until the final reveal. The dynamic
artwork is a selling point in and of itself. Smooth, cunning, and hip, Who Is Jake Ellis? is the one indie book you can’t miss out on this week. Written by Nathan Edmondson,
art by Tonci Zonjic. Published by Image. This softcover collection contains the first five issues.

Captain Swing HC/TPB
 Finally completed, this book contains the entire run of Warren Ellis’
high-adventure steampunk tale in hardcover or softcover format.
You’ve heard the hype surrounding Aspen’s Lady Mechanika, well Captain Swing deserves to be put on the same level, but tardiness between issues killed its momentum.
It’s pirates, romance, science and great artwork by Raulo Caceres, all set in London during the 1830s.
Published by Avatar.

Gladstone’s School for World Conquerors vol. 1 TPB 
A top secret academy where children of the world’s most notorious super
villains learn the tricks of the trade! This graphic novel collects the
first six issues of the series by Mark Andrew Smith & Armand Villavert.
Published by Image.

Follow on Twitter: @yourfriendandy // @ComicAttack