Before I jump into the column I just want to gush about Interpol. I saw them perform on Sunday and I was slayed. They killed it. I didn’t lose my voice (like I did when I saw The xx) but I still had a blast. I’ve got to say that Daniel Kessler puts on a hell of a show. He’s dynamic, energetic and immaculately dressed.
And now, onto the comics.
I’m trying so hard not to turn this column into “What’s Wrong with Comics…This Week.” It’s kind of hard because there’s so much I want rant about. For instance I want to share my thoughts on the Vertigo Implosion, Brightest Day, Wonder Woman and the current direction that The Atom is taking. But I also don’t want to be the typical “fanboy on the internet” who’s filled with bile and negativity.
At the same time as a loyal comic fan I want to express my feelings, be they negative or positive, because comics are something that I’ve invested years of my life in. I feel like I’ve put enough time in to be able to both critique and question the material and decisions. I mean I think I’ve got that right. I’m the guy who wrote Who’s Who every week for five years; I don’t think my passion can be doubted.
But rather than spending this week being vocal about what’s getting under my skin, I’m devoting this column to what some of the things that I’m loving in comics.
I love different things about different comics and I’m sure it’s the same for most people. Sometimes I’ve the entire book and sometimes it’s just an aspect of the title. Sometimes it’s the journey that I’m taken on and sometimes it’s just the consistent quality. I can’t always explain what strikes my fancy, but for the sake of the column, I’ll try.
There are some comics I just can’t wait to get my hands on. For instance I’m completely enthralled by the journey that Jeff Lemire is taking us on in Sweet Tooth. I’m not really a fan of “post-apocalyptic” stories but this one has me hooked. I’m equally enjoying the falling into Unwritten, which is one of the cleverest concepts that I’ve read in awhile. It manages to be both good fiction and subtle metafiction.
On the other hand there are those books that have specific features that make me anticipate their arrival. The current The Spirit title is an enjoyable read, but it’s the “Black & White” second feature that continually impresses. It seems to attract the best and brightest in terms of talent and furthermore they all seem to bring their A-game.
While Batman Odyssey has just begun, I was impressed with Neal Adams’ creativity in terms of the cover essentially being the first page of the story. And how that cover mirrors the first interior page was equally refreshing.
Then there are those comics that I can barely muster up the words to give them the praise they deserve. Daytripper is beautiful and haunting. It’s thought provoking and visually stunning. It’s funny and tragic. It’s probably the best miniseries this year and it’s criminally underrated. Daytripper is like the comic equivalent of a Sufjan Stevens album or maybe an album by The Roots.
Unknown Solider is in the same category. It’s such a powerful and compelling read that it makes me guilty for enjoying it. It’s historically accurate about the horrific acts committed in specific African countries. It’s a book that I love and that I’m mourning, since it’s end is near.
I also want to rave about Viking. It’s unusual format really showcases the marvelous art. It was only a bi-monthly (if that) title but it continually impressed. I for one can’t wait for it’s return. It was one of those books that, when I found it in my box for the week, my heart would race in anticipation.
Since I’m talking about stuff that I love, I think I should also mention A God Somewhere, which is a recently released graphic novel. I picked it up because I’m a fan of John Acrudi and Peter Snejbjerg’s work. I read it and I was moved. I enjoyed it. I’m glad I picked it up. I just wish more people had tried it out.
So, there you have it. I’m not just a guy who attacks creators, the industry and comic book companies. I’m also a guy loves comics and isn’t afraid to profess that love.
