Friday, June 06, 2008

BOOM! STUDIOS ANNOUNCES NEW H.P. LOVECRAFT-INSPIRED SERIES, NECRONOMICON


William Messner-Loebs Makes A Triumphant Return To Comics!


New Series Expands Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos


June 5th, 2008 - - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios is proud to announce NECRONOMICON, a new four-issue mini-series based around H.P. Lovecraft's "Necronomicon," the religious text featured in dozens of Lovecraft's short stories and novellas. Hitting store shelves in August, BOOM!'s NECRONOMICON is written by long-time fan-favorite William Messner-Loebs, with gruesome interior art by Andrew Ritchie and scream-inducing covers by J.K. Woodward.


"Lovecraft believed - and he was right - that the scariest things are those least understood. Thus he kept everything as vague as he could - the mythos, the monsters, even the horrid and grisly fates of his heroes," said NECRONOMICON writer William Messner-Loebs. "Well, my job, given me by the esteemed BOOM!, is to describe, explicate, explain and anatomize said book and lay its mysteries bare, all whilst causing as much havoc as I can."


NECRONOMICON follows the story of Henry Said, an Arabic college student in 1920s Arkham, Mass. who is hired by cultists to find the forbidden tome and obtain the dark powers of old. In the course of his adventures, Henry travels the world as he traces the footsteps of the Necronomicon's writer, Abdul Alhazard, and makes a... dark discovery.


Lovecraft's works have frightened and inspired generations of fantasy and horror readers, and NECRONOMICON will bring the same horrific adventures fans know and love in the way that only BOOM! can deliver.


"The terror of Lovecraft's creations comes from their implications - the idea that man is insignificant and small," said BOOM! Studios Editorr-in-Chief Mark Waid. "These elder gods exist outside our perceptions, and nothing we do matters because we are just a footnote in their texts. I'm excited about NECRONOMICON because William Messner-Loebs understands that tension in Lovecraft's works, and J.K. Woodward's covers and Andrew Richie's art bring that to life."


With the publication of NECRONOMICON, BOOM! Studios continues to redefine Lovecraft's vision with today's top talent, following up on the successes of their fan-favorite ongoing series FALL OF CTHULHU and their best-selling anthology, CTHULHU TALES.

NECRONOMICON #1 features a cover by J.K. Woodward, Diamond item order code: JUN083748.


About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (http://www.boom-studios.com) is a unique new publishing house specializing in high-profile projects across a wide variety of different genres from some of the industry's biggest talents. In its inaugural year, Wizard Magazine named BOOM! "Best New Publisher." Founded by the creator of the TV show EUREKA, Andrew Cosby, and his partner Ross Richie, BOOM! Studios continues to be on the leading edge of comic and graphic novel publishing.

Thursday, June 05, 2008

VIZ MEDIA BRINGS UNIQUE AND EXCITING PROPERTIES
FOR ALL AGES AND INTERESTS TO 2008 LICENSING INTERNATIONAL EXPO

San Francisco, CA, June 5, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, brings some of the hottest anime properties to the Licensing International Expo, taking place June 10 through June 12 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. VIZ Media will be located in Booth # 4505.

The Licensing International Expo is the largest and most important annual event for the more than $180 billion licensing industry. It features more than 500 leading licensors and agents, representing more than 6,000 properties and brands, with upwards of 25,000 attendees expected including key decision-making retailers, manufacturers, and marketing professionals across all consumer and product categories.

VIZ Media is a key licensor delivering manga and animated content to a fast growing international audience. The company offers a diverse selection of unique animated properties designed for diverse interests and viewers of all ages including children, teens and young adults and adults.

The properties VIZ Media will be highlighting at 2008 Licensing International Expo:

NARUTO
NARUTO has become the hottest animated series across North America and is one of VIZ Media’s most successful manga and animated properties in terms of sales. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, the series depicts the adventures of a young boy named Uzumaki Naruto who trains to become a ninja. But the boy is cursed with the spirit of a nine-tailed fox demon and is forced to live a bullied life discriminated against by his fellow villagers. But Naruto is resilient and undaunted in his quest to become a master ninja and his determination often inspires those around him. Through amazing adventures, the young ninja learns the importance of friendship, teamwork, loyalty, hard work, creativity, ingenuity, and right vs. wrong. Dedicated website at www. naruto.viz.com. Rated T for Teens.

BLEACH
BLEACH is an animated, epic action series aimed at teens. Ichigo Kurosaki is an ordinary 15-year-old boy who happens to be able to see ghosts. His fate takes an extraordinary turn when he meets Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper who shows up at Ichigo's house on the trail of a Hollow, a malevolent lost soul. Drawn to Ichigo's high level of spiritual energy, the Hollow attacks Ichigo and his family, and Rukia steps in to help but is injured and unable to fight. As a last resort, Rukia decides to transfer part of her Soul Reaper powers to Ichigo. Ichigo, now a full-fledged Soul Reaper, and Rukia, minus her powers, join together to face the challenges that lie ahead. Dedicated website at www.bleach.viz.com. Rated T for Teens.

DEATH NOTE
DEATH NOTE is currently one of the hottest animated titles in Japan. The series depicts the adventures of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects but who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Dedicated website at www.deathnote.viz.com. Rated T+ for Older Teens.

BLUE DRAGON
Based on the popular Microsoft Xbox 360 video game developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi (the creator of Final Fantasy) and featuring character designs by Akira Toriyama (the creator of Dragon Ball), the BLUE DRAGON animation is a classic adventure story of magical Shadow powers, flying air fortresses, and unbounded heroism! Brought together by fate, Seven Soldiers of Light must awaken the Shadow within themselves in time to overcome a despotic power and bring peace to their land. Their ensuing journey through a rich fantasy world is also an internal journey to awaken the great power within each of them. Journey with them into the world of BLUE DRAGON! Dedicated website at www.bluedragon.viz.com. Rated A for all ages.

KILARI
Kilari is a happy-go-lucky 14 year-old schoolgirl. Unlike her friends, she is more interested in food and shows no interest in good-looking boys. One day, however, she accidentally bumps into Seiji, a pop idol, and develops a crush on him at first sight. Realizing how difficult it would be for her to become friends with him, Kilari makes an extraordinary decision, to become a star herself to be close to him! Thus begins her pop star adventure! Rated A for all ages.

Other featured properties include:
BUSO RENKIN, DETECTIVE CONAN, DEKO BOKO FRIENDS, HONEY AND CLOVER, HUNTER X HUNTER, INUYASHA, NANA and more.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the UK and Ireland, and South Africa and is a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels,videos, DVDs and audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

About VIZ Media Europe, S.A.R.L. (VME)
Headquartered in Paris, France, VIZ Media Europe (VME) is a subsidiary of San Francisco-based VIZ Media, LLC. VME specializes in managing the development, marketing and distribution throughout Europe of Japanese animated entertainment and graphic novels (manga). It handles some of the most popular Japanese manga and animation properties from initial production, through television placement and distribution to merchandise licensing and promotions for consumers of all ages. Current VME animated properties include BLEACH, DEATH NOTE, BLUE DRAGON, HONEY & CLOVER, M.A.R, ZOIDS GENESIS and KILARI. Contact VIZ Media Europe at 9, avenue de l'Opéra, 75001 Paris, France Phone +33 1 72 71 53 53; Fax: +33 1 42 96 97 36; and web site at www.vizeurope.com.
WILLOW CREEK POSTPONED
As reported last month, Josh Medors, artist and co-creator of Zenescope Entertainment's new werewolf series WILLOW CREEK had to undergo spinal surgery in December of '07 after doctors discovered a tumor on his spine. Following Medors' successful rehab he was able to continue work on the series, however within the last 6 weeks Josh was required to undergo further treatment which has set back his recovery. In lieu of Josh's current treatment Zenescope has postponed the next issues of WILLOW CREEK indefinitely. "Right now Josh's treatment and recovery absolutely comes first and foremost. When Josh is ready to get back to work, he will, but until that point he needs to focus on what's important and that's getting 100% better." said Zenescope VP Ralph Tedesco. He has so many supporters through all of this and not only has the industry been supportive but all of the fans have been phenomenal in showing their adoration and I know Josh can't express enough how much that means to him."
Last month several comic creators, publishers and fans joined forces to hold the Josh Medors' benefit auction at the Emerald City Comic Con. The benefit helped raise over $10,000 to go toward Josh's treatment.
"THE AMORY WARS" RETURNS!
New mini-series completes "The Second Stage Turbine Blade" Saga





Claudio Sanchez, the creative force and lead singer of prog-rock supergroup Coheed and Cambria , returns to the universe of Heaven's Fence for "The Amory Wars: The Second Stage Turbine Blade, Vol. 2." Issue #1 of the new comic book mini-series debuts in stores today.

THE AMORY WARS follows the science fiction/horror saga of the close-knit Kilgannon family, who are placed in the center of a cataclysmic terrorist plot led by the evil Supreme Tri-Mage, Wilhelm Ryan.

The comics, conceptually and lyrically linked to Coheed and Cambria's debut album, "The Second Stage Turbine Blade," bridge the entertainment space between music and comic books.

"THE AMORY WARS is a visual expression of the conflicts and relationships we explore in our songs," Sanchez said. "You don't need the comics or the story to understand the music, and vice versa, but together they compliment the overall vision of Coheed and Cambria."

Volume 2 completes the (Second Stage) story which began in Sanchez's first mini-series. It received rave reviews from both comic book and music fans, and was a best-seller in 2007. The new series is off to an even better start, "the numbers [of THE AMORY WARS vol. 2] are almost double where they were with vol. 1," said Image Comics' Joe Keatinge. "Image is thrilled with the improved success, and look forward to seeing Claudio's vision unfold to its completion." Currently, each comic sells over 25,000 copies, and the interest only grows over time.

Sanchez added that the new mini-series is full of surprises and material that fans will be love, because so much of the lyrics come to life in this volume, and "the new books also have a darker, more detailed look, closer to what i have always envisioned."

Acclaimed Argentine artist, Gabriel Guzman, adds a gritty visual edge to Sanchez's scripts. Covers are created and composed by Eisner Award nominee Tony Moore ("The Walking Dead," "Fear Agent"). Sanchez publishes the 5-issue mini-series through his Evil Ink imprint. THE AMORY WARS continues to be distributed by Image Comics.

www.myspace.com/evilinkcomics

www.theamorywars.com

Wednesday, June 04, 2008

If you think zombies are doomed to moan and groan, think again. In the new graphic novel from Virgin Comics, "Dave Stewart's Zombie Broadway", the Big Apple suffers from a zombie infestation that leaves the mayor with only one hope short of nuking the city: putting the zombies on Broadway. Turns out zombies are not so different from you and me, and when the music's playing they sing and dance with the best of them.

Now Virgin Comics and the Eurythmics star want to find out if you can, too. To celebrate the launch of the comic, we are running a Karaoke Competition on Youtube (http://www.youtube.com/user/ZombieKaraoke) which features a brand new song written by Dave Stewart and Mike Bradford.

The rules and prizes are listed on the site, but to give you an overview: to enter, contestants watch the Zombie Broadway karaoke video and then record themselves singing along. They then upload their files as video replies to the karaoke video. Dave Stewart will personally select the winners: the grand prize winner receives a N81-3 Nokia cell (retail value of over $500), a $50 gift certificate to Midtown Comics, a copy of "Zombie Broadway" signed by Dave Stewart, and a collection of Virgin comic books. Four runner-ups receive the autographed copy of "Zombie Broadway" and the collection of Virgin comic books.

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Friends-

Issue eleven of CWR is now online, and as always, we have some nifty goodies for your reading pleasure!

Javier Grillo-Marxuach interviewed! The Emmy-winning writer/creator of THE MIDDLEMAN sits down with Marc Mason to discuss life in television, the birth of MIDDLEMAN as a comic, and its ultimate migration to the small screen!
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/javigm.html

Rick Remender interviewed! The indie titan chats with Brandon Jerwa about his career arc, his thoughts on work for hire, and what he thinks his best work has been.
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/jerwa9.html

Reviews of AMOR Y COHETES, HERCULES, HOW TO MAKE WEBCOMICS, TALES OF THE STARLIGHT DRIVE-IN and more!
http://reviews.comicswaitingroom.com

Matt Maxwell visits BEA and delivers a nifty travelogue on the experience:
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/fullbleed23.html

Elliott Serrano takes on the hype vs. the results on SECRET INVASION and FINAL CRISIS and defends the new INDIANA JONES flick from the haters: http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/ccw14.html

Marc Mason is getting rid of his comics. What…?:
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/mason11.html

Avril Brown talks about comic book weddings and offers up thoughts on her sister’s recent nuptials:
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/avril11.html

Jessica Blackshear shows off some reader mail and decides the STAR WARS vs. STAR TREK debate once and for all:
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/jess10.html

Vince Moore shifts format to a single topic column and begins by telling us “Why Superman Does Not Suck And Never Will”:
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com/vince20.html

All wrapped in a terrific Elliott Serrano designed cover:
http://www.comicswaitingroom.com

Remember: If you read something at CWR that you like, pass it on to friends and blogs. Enjoy the reading!

Marc Mason
Editor-in-Chief
Comics Waiting Room
VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES UNPRECEDENTED IN-PERSON APPEARANCES FOR JUNE 11 NEW YORK CITY
MOVIE EVENT
BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY


Character Designer Masashi Kudo And Producer Ken Hagino To Give Unique Insights On New Feature Film Based On Hit Animated Supernatural Action Series

San Francisco, CA, June 2, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced a special event for its New York City movie event BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY on Wednesday, June 11 at the Regal Union Square Stadium 14 Theatre at 7:00pm. Theatre information follows at the end of this press release.

VIZ Media will welcome rare in-person appearances by BLEACH Character Designer Masashi Kudo and Producer Ken Hagino, who will offer insights to the audience prior to the start of the film. A costumed version of the character KON from the movie will also be on-hand to welcome guests and pose for pictures. The first 100 attendees on June 11, at the Regal Union Square Stadium 14 location, will also receive a special BLEACH armband courtesy of Great Eastern Entertainment, Inc., a leading licensed manufacturer of animation and entertainment merchandise.

Adapted from the wildly popular animated series and best-selling manga series (both distributed and published in North America by VIZ Media) by acclaimed Japanese artist Tite Kubo, BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY will make its North American debut in a special two-night theatre experience in 300 cities nationwide on June 11 and 12. The screening will also include an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the talent behind the characters as well as interviews with the Japanese Director, Noriyuki Abe, Producer Ken Hagino and Character Designer, Masashi Kudo. VIZ Media has partnered with NCM FATHOM, the entertainment division of National CineMedia, to present this epic action anime hit nationwide. For a complete list of theatre locations and prices, please visit the www.FathomEvents.com website (theatres are subject to change).

BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY begins as unidentified beings known as “Blanks” start popping up. They are soon followed by a Soul Reaper named Senna who makes them disappear. Puzzled by these unknown beings and the even more mysterious girl, Ichigo and Rukia set out to learn more, but uncover an evil plot when a menacing clan tries to kidnap Senna. Banished from the Soul Society long ago, the clan’s leader has sent sending the World of the Living and the Soul Society on a collision course, and Senna seems to be the key to his diabolical plot for revenge. Can Ichigo and his fellow Soul Reapers save the two worlds from annihilation?

“Anticipation is steadily building for this special movie event of BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY and we are very excited to welcome character designer Masashi Kudo and producer Ken Hagino for rare in-person appearances at the June 11 New York City screening,” says Liza Coppola, Sr. Vice President “This will be a unique opportunity to see one of the hottest animated supernatural action thrillers on the big screen and glean some insights straight from the creative forces behind the film.”

BLEACH is a tremendously successful multimedia property internationally. The manga series (rated 'T' for teens) has been licensed to more than a dozen countries, and has sold over 50 million copies in Japan alone. In North America the manga has been a sales hit and the popular animated series is viewed weekly by millions in the United States and Canada. This success has further spawned an array of related video games, apparel, action figures, trading cards and other merchandise. BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY is rated T for Teens.

BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY will screen at the following theatre in New York City June 11 and 12
Regal Union Square Stadium 14
850 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
(212) 253-6266

Fans are encouraged to show up in their in their best BLEACH gear in support of this exciting movie. For more information on BLEACH and BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY please visit the official BLEACH website at bleach.viz.com or www.viz.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs and audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.
DDP RELEASES AUGUST SOLICITATIONS WITH EXPANDED CATALOG

Premiers to include 'Bionic Commando' series, 'Rest' from Milo Ventimiglia, and vinyl 'Incredible Change-Bots' toys



Chicago, IL. (June 3, 2008) – Devil's Due has released its full list of solicitations for August 2008, including an expanded catalogue that introduces new series, graphic novels, and toys from Capcom, Heroes star Milo Ventimiglia, alternative comics sensation Jeffrey Brown, and the hit television show Monster Garage.



August will see the premier of Devil's Due's first release in a new line of Capcom video game-based properties, Bionic Commando, which will be written by Hollywood screenwriter Justin Marks (Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li, Hack/Slash). The new series will tie in to the universe of the upcoming game, reintroducing the classic hero.



Also headlining August from DDP will be the 99-cent preview issue of Milo Ventimiglia's new series Rest. Scripted by writer Mark Powers (G.I. Joe: America's Elite, Drafted), Rest is a brand new conspiracy action/thriller about a drug that replaces sleep.



Part of DDP's growing library of titles will be new original graphic novels shipping in August, including the action horror OGN Chopper Zombie from the makers of the reality television show Monster Garage. Additionally, DDP will partner with Vin Di Bona Productions to publish Serpo, an OGN about the U.S. government's dealings with extraterrestrials.



As the Devil's Due Pop line of vinyl toys, journals, and usable artwork continues to grow, DDP will present "Balls," the first in a line of vinyl toys based on Jeffrey Brown's Incredible Change-Bots. The transformable robot comes with an exclusive mini-comic by Brown.



To check out DDP's complete list of solicitations for August, check out the info and cover art at:



http://devilsdue.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=183&Itemid=51



About Devil's Due Publishing:
Proliferators of comics culture, DDP is one of the largest and most established comic book publishers in North America, carrying a diverse line-up of original, creator-owned and licensed properties. With offices in Los Angeles and Chicago DDP has many projects in development for film and television with major studios including 20th Century Fox, ABC Family, and Rogue Pictures. DDP's titles include Drafted, Lost Squad, Sheena, Dungeons & Dragons, DemonWars, Voltron, Rest, Serpo and the cult-favorite Hack/Slash. The company recently launched a line of cutting edge designer toys and life accessories under the imprint DDPOP, found in specialty stores this summer.
AAM Markosia launches Web Comic division


AAM Markosia, publisher of King Kong, Starship Troopers, and the upcoming N-Guard, announces its new Web Comic division. Two debut properties, 'Baby Boomers' by writer Richard McCauliffe and artist Chad Cicconi, and 'Digging For Apples' by Donna Stewart, are available to view for free.


"I am extremely excited by these two new properties," says publisher Harry Markos. "They are in complete contrast to anything we've ever done before. 'Baby Boomers' is hilarious, I can only describe it as 'two babies beating the crap out of each other when their parents aren't looking!' 'Digging For Apples' is our first foray into Manga -- something I have been keen to explore for a while now. Donna Stewart has come up with an amazing story drawn in that style, but in full and lush color."

Both titles will be published once their run on the site has concluded. In addition, the company will be featuring Starship Troopers segments. More titles will be added on a continued basis, with the goal being to have a new web comic appear everyday.


Please visit www.markosia.com for more details.
Check Out Joshua Kemble's New Website
After a long while, I've decided to simplify my website so that it can now have much more frequent updates!
My new website, featuring previews of all of my latest comic books, as well as more current artwork is now live at:
www.joshuakemble.com



So, please check it out!


Other News:


-In the next week, I'll be going full time freelance, so if you're at all interested in hiring me to do illustration, contact me at:
joshkemble@gmail.com!



-Threadless is now selling 3 more of my designs, at these links (act quickly though, since they're selling out fast):


http://www.threadless.com/product/1179/Blonde_on_Blonde



http://www.threadless.com/product/1235/Attack_of_Literacy



http://www.threadless.com/product/1107/The_League_of_Cliche_Evil_Super_Villains



And, if you have the time within the next few days, please check out my latest submission to threadless, and vote/comment on it:
http://www.threadless.com/submission/164232/Still_Waiting_For_Godot/showmore,designs



Thanks again! I plan on sending out more frequent updates with news as it happens! If you'd prefer to not be on this mailing list, please respond with "remove" in the subject line! Thanks!

--
Joshua Kemble Illustrations
www.sidewithus.com/joshkemble

Monday, June 02, 2008

June 8: Comics Get Da Blues!
BLUESMAN Book Launch & Live Blues Jam!
Benefiting the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund!




What: BLUESMAN Graphic Novel Launch Party, featuring a special performance by legendary blues singer Bill Sims Jr (Lackawanna Blues, PBS's American Love Story) & blues diva Pat Cisarano (Sundance Channel's Flying Confessions) with Bluesman author Rob Vollmar!

When: Sunday, June 8, 7 PM - 11 PM

Where: Village Pourhouse, 64 3rd Avenue @ 11th St, New York, NY

How Much:
General Admission: $10 suggested donation at the door.

Hosts:
NBM Publishing & JahFurry

On June 8, comix and blues come together for a night of sizzling tunes and sparkling stories at the CBLDF Benefit Book Launch Party for Rob Vollmar & NBM Publishing’s graphic novel Bluesman! Bluesman author Vollmar will be joined by by legendary blues singer Bill Sims Jr (Lackawanna Blues, PBS's American Love Story) & blues diva Pat Cisarano (Sundance Channel's Flying Confessions) for an evening of live music and comic goodness!

Addressing themes of racial oppression and injustice, BLUESMAN tells the story of blues musician Lem Taylor’s harrowing journey across Arkansas of the late twenties, hunted for a crime he didn’t commit.

"An explosive and emotional climax. Bluesman mixes the mythic and dramatic with the nitty-gritty reality of the hard parts of life, just like a good blues song does." -Publishers Weekly.

"Consider Bluesman a worthy shelf mate for such other historical graphic novels as James Vance and Dan Burr's Kings in Disguise and Kim Deitch's Boulevard of Broken Dreams." -Booklist

To help celebrate the marriage of comics and the blues, the CBLDF recruited legendary blues musician Bill Sims Jr. who throughout the evening, will be singin' and slingin' some authentic and rockin' blues. Bill starred in PBS's 10 week American Love Story (a documentary about Bill and his family), was 1/2 of the Obie-award winning original two-man stage version of HBO's Lackawanna Blues. Joining Bill is Pat Cisarano, who Tony Bennett once described at a Grammy's party as his "favorite white blues singer," and who is currently features in the Sundance Channel documentary Flying Confessions of a Free Woman. Rob Vollmar, the author of Bluesman will be opening up the evening with a special set, and will be on hand throughout the night to sign copies of the graphic novel!

About the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund

The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund was founded in 1986 as a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of First Amendment rights for members of the comics community. They have defended dozens of Free Expression cases in courts across the United States, and led important education initiatives promoting comics literacy and free expression. For additional information, donations, and other inquiries call 800-99-CBLDF or visit http://www.cbldf.org or http://www.myspace.com/cbldf .

For More About Bluesman, visit
NBM Publishing – http://nbmpub.com
Bluesman online- http://www.bluesmanproject.com
Bluesman on MySpace- http://www.myspace.com/bluesmanproject
Hey gang,
A quick reminder this week about the "Making Comics" event at the Will and Ariel Durant Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library this Saturday.
The Durant Branch is located a mere hop skip and a jump from Meltdown Comics and Golden Apple Comics in Hollywood, at 7140 W. Sunset Blvd.

The program is geared for 'teens on up' and will be a light and fun 'How to' for making comics, breaking into the industry, and things of that nature. It's going to be a Q & A, so having someone there to Q for my A would be greatly appreciated.

And, best of all, from 2 to 4 at Meltdown Comics, there's an event featuring Mark Evanier and his Kirby King of Comics book. So, go there, see him speak, sign, and entertain, and then you can literally walk to the Library for the panel.

The flyer with all the information is both attached, and available for viewing here: http://www.thefialkov.com/?p=1101

See you this weekend!

As always, please feel free to repost, forward, fold into erotic origami, or tell this to your friends, readers, and family.

j.
Summer is on its way. And there are great art events and happenings for lovers of art and culture. Check it out.

+++ "In the Land of Retinal Delights: the Juxtapoz Factor" : Exhibit Opens June 22 :
Over 150 artists will be featured at the Laguna Arts Museum this June in celebration of the lowbrow, pop-surrealistic art movements and the "Juxtapoz factor." Mark Murphy has been chosen to design all of the marketing materials and the exhibition catalogue published by the Laguna Arts Museum and Ginko Press. An amazing line up of artists will be featured, including: Mark Ryden, Takashi Murakami, Joel Peter Witkin, Robert Williams and many more. Stay tuned or visit http://murphydesign1.blogspot.com/ for more information.

+++ ComicCon 2008 in San Diego : 07/24 - 07/28 : Booth No. 4833
Jeff Soto and Murphy Art Books will be exhibiting new books, zines and artist collectibles at this year's San Diego Comic-Con and convention. New books will be available and Jeff Soto will be on hand to sign his new book, released at the event, "Storm Clouds," featuring 148 pages. Also, there will be a art exhibition held in San Diego entitled, "SuperHero," featuring Jeff Soto, Luke Chueh, Lola, Joel Nakamura, Anthony Lister, Christopher Ryniak, Marco Wagner and many more. Stay tuned.

+++ Jeff Soto : "Storm Clouds" : July Release
"Storm Clouds" by Jeff Soto is completed and currently on press. Jeff's new book will be released at this year's San Diego Comic-Con Convention July 24 through July 28. Jeff's new hard-bound edition features Jeff's paintings from his shows: "Supernova," "Cold Ice Age," "Storm Clouds" and everything else in between. Look out for Jeff at the Riverside Art Museum (RAM) this December,
a new collection of paintings on exhibit.

+++ Ray Caesar Update : August Release :
August 2008 is the shipping date for the premier Ray Caesar art collection. Thanks to all of you for your patient understanding. The new Ray Caesar book will feature 168 full color pages, limited edition shelf cards, high-quality printing and priority shipping to your door. Ray Caesar's new fine art exhibition will be on display at Jonathan LeVine Gallery in New York, Saturday June 28 through
July 26. If you are interested in collecting Ray's work please email info@jonathanlevinegallery.com

+++ Kathie Olivas and Brandt Peters : "Ghosts and Martyrs" : July Release :
Kathie Olivas and Brandt Peters has teamed up to create an all in one doubled up book. Kathie Olivas features a impressive painting collection of her "Misery Children" characters, concept sketches, sculpts and customs. Flip the book over and find Brandt Peters and his whimsical collection of drawings, character developments, toys, sculpts and paintings. Both sides of the
book combine to deliver 230 full color pages of self-published works and a massive collection of collaborative works shared between this husband and wife duo. The book will be on hand at
Comic-Con in San Diego this July.

+++ Society of Illustrators Los Angeles : "No. 45 Exhibition" : July Release :
Over 220 pages of award winning illustration and the talents of Bob Dob, Greg "Craola" Simkins, Esther Pearl Watson, Bob Dob, Nate Williams and hundreds of other inspired artists will be featured. The cover will feature the artistry of James Jean and featured content will include exposes about the late Phil Hays and Southern California art connoisseur Billy Shire. This collection is solid and will be offered at Comic-Con.

+++ Murphy Blog
New art and cultural events are actively posted at http://murphydesign1.blogspot.com/. Feel free to check out the latest and greatest featuring Jeff Soto, Ray Caesar, Kathie Olivas, Brandt Peters, Anthony Lister and all upcoming exhibitions and events. Check often, as we will be hitting the streets and posting often.
John Bolton and Tomm Coker get Radical for July





May 30th, 2008, LOS ANGELES – For issue #3 of Hercules and Caliber solicited for July 2008 in Diamond’s May Previews, Radical wanted to assign one special artist to each of the covers. After searching for the perfect fit, Radical Publishing is proud to announce that award winning British artist John Bolton is providing a cover for Hercules: The Thracian Wars #3 and director/writer/artist Tomm Coker is providing one for Caliber: First Canon of Justice #3.



“Getting John Bolton and Tomm Coker respectively for Hercules and Caliber couldn’t have been a better choice.” stated Barry Levine, Radical Publishing’s President and Publisher. “John knows a thing about a character such as Hercules, having done Robert E. Howard’s Kull the Barbarian for Marvel years ago, as well as his Marada, the She-Wolf he co-created with Chris Claremont. I really love how he brings across the glory of battle in this one scene. Tomm’s cover for Caliber is just beautiful. With Arthur on the run in the Telacoma winter countryside for issue #3, this cover brings an iconic look to Lance that fits Sam Sarkar’s story.”



Tomm Coker adds, “Creating the Caliber cover was a real challenge -- trying to envision a character as classic and recognizable as Lancelot in a completely different time and world -- I can't wait to see where the rest of the story leads."



Hercules: The Thracian Wars #3 (DCD# MAY084083) is featured in May 2008 Diamond Previews catalogue and will ship in July of this year. Hercules: The Thracian Wars #3 will ship with two covers, one by John Bolton for cover A and one by Svetlin Velinov of Imaginary Friends Studios for cover B. Cover A will ship in 3:1 ratio to cover B.



Caliber: First Canon of Justice #3 (DCD# MAY084082) is featured in May 2008 Diamond Previews catalogue and will ship in July of this year. Caliber: First Canon of Justice #3 will ship with two covers, one by Tomm Coker for cover A and one by Stanley “Artgerm” Lau of Imaginary Friends Studios for cover B. Cover A will ship in 3:1 ratio to cover B.



About Radical Publishing



Radical Publishing is founded by BARRY LEVINE (Producer for Rogue Pictures’ BLOOD ON THE TRACKS, Executive Producer for the in development Warner Brothers’ REX MUNDI movie, written by JIM UHLS, starring JOHNNY DEPP and Universal Pictures’ R.I.P.D), his protĂ©gĂ© JESSE BERGER, and longtime writer/publisher DAVID ELLIOTT (Atomeka Press and Tundra Publishing).



Radical Publishing is bringing the best in writing, storytelling and fully-painted cover and interior artwork to the global comic book market by prominent international talents such as YOSHITAKA AMANO, JOHN BOLTON, LUIS ROYO, JIM STERANKO, STEVE NILES, IAN EDGINTON, STEVE MOORE, SAM SARKAR, STJEPAN SEJIC, DAVE WILKINS, STEVE PUGH, JAMES HEFFRON, TOMM COKER, CLAYTON CRAIN, BILL SIENKIEWICZ, WETA WORKSHOP, IMAGINARY FRIENDS STUDIOS, and many more.



www.radicalcomics.com