The Ray #1 (2012)

Writers: Justin Gray & Jimmy Palmiotti

Penciller: Jamal Igle

Inker: Rich Perrotta

Colorist: Guy Major

Letterer: Dave Sharpe

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $2.99

4 Issue Mini Series

To begin with forget everything you know about The Ray and the hero’s lineage as this is a brand new take on the character.  I know I was thinking the same thing, no more cool helmet or badass leather jacket.  If you where expecting the reintroduction of Ray Terrill into the New DCU you’ll be disappointed but I promise that will not last long as Justin, Jimmy, and Jamal have created a great launch and have produced the ideal jumping on point for new and existing readers.  Keen eyes will notice a mention regarding Happy Terrill, so not all has been forgotten.

Here's a couple of reasons why I found this comic book so enjoyable to read:

A Diverse Cast!  The lead Lucien is Korea, his parents are hippies (and Caucasian … interesting), his best friend Darius is African American, and Chanti his understanding girlfriend is Indian.

Comic books should be Fun!  The humor weaved together with the action made this story stand out.  I kept cracking smiles as I was reading and that will keep me coming back each month.

Secret Identity?  There is none (at this point), Lucien’s family and close friends all know what’s happened to him as well as supporting him in his new role as a Hero.

Shocking Ending!  Violent and shocking, what a way to end the first issue.  I did not see that coming and honestly it caught me off guard, in a good way.  I also liked how it incorporated a location from the Batman mythos, it helped cement this story into the DC Universe.

The next time you visit your local comic shop see if they still have a copy on the shelf.  The second issue is expected on or around January 11th.  It was the creative team of Justin & Jimmy working with Jamal that first caught my attention and if you enjoyed what they’ve produced here make yourself a note to look for some of their past work the next time you’re back issue diving.  I always make a point in trying any comic book that I see their names attached to. 

George (@GLGJ)

Looking for new Comic Books to read? 2.0

Yes, we’re late getting the second edition of “Looking for new Comicbooks to read?” posted.  A tiny event called the New York Comic Con sort of threw our scheduling for a loop.  This isn’t how we wanted to start our first reoccurring column here at QBHQ but preparation, attending, and even recovery for NYCC everything else takes a backseat.  There’s still time left in October so if you see something that interests you make sure to let your local Comicbook retailer know.  As always the only sure way to get a copy is by preordering.

Okay let’s get into this!

DCU readers don’t let this first title get lost in your New52 buying. The Ray has a new 4 issue series that’s being solicited alongside the main line’s 4th issues.  Not familiar with the Ray?  Not a problem!  You don’t need to know the history of the character, much like what DC has done with jumpstarting their whole line this is a new fresh take on The Ray.  The creative team bringing this to you is the writing duo of Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray (you’re all still reading Jonah Hex right, if not you really should try it) working along side the always awesome Jamal Igle.  I do miss the helmet just a bit.   

Think IDW is all about licensed properties?  You’d be wrong.  IDW is rolling out a new creator owed series called Memorial by Chris Roberson and Rich Ellis with covers by Michael Wm Kaluta.  I was happy to find a preview of this in the new Star Trek / Legion of Super-Heroes crossover (recommended!) and if you look in our links section at the top right of this page we’ve directed you to an 11 page preview found on the internets.  This looks like it can turn into a big fantasy world building story, I liked what I saw and plan on seeing where it goes.    

I’ve always been a big fan of Dan Brereton’s painted artwork and what he’s doing with The Last Battle from Image Comics is spectacular.  Don’t let the high price tag ($7.99) dissuade you this is going to be 80 pages of ancient Roman history in all out action and violence.  This title has already been published internationally and is finally coming to the States.

 

For my finale suggestion from the December shipping Previews catalogue we have Phazer published by RZG Comics.  I’m going to be upfront with you outside of the copy solicitation and cover art shown I know nothing about this comicbook.  It was Jim Steranko’s cover art that I noticed, Steranko is a legend and any new work from him should get attention.  I also liked the early sixties retro vibe of an origin story.  I’m taking a chance on this one hoping for a fun read.

George (GLGJ)