Comics News: JIRNI Returns This May From Aspen Comics

Jirni Volume 2 Set for May From Aspen Comics

Press Release

04-11-14

On May 21st, Aspen Comics and writer J.T. Krul (Green Arrow, Soulfire), along with artist Paolo Pantalena (Jirni Volume 1) and Brett Smith (Suicide Squad, Jirni Volume 1), return to the fantasy adventure series Jirni for the eagerly awaited second chapter. Volume two follows Ara’s continued quest to find her kidnapped mother before she is enslaved forever to the treacherous sorcerer Torinthal.

"We were all thrilled with the success and reception that Jirni received last year, and I am super stoked to be continuing Ara's adventures in Volume Two,” says writer J.T. Krul. “She's such a strong and determined character, and the quest to find her mother is really just beginning. The first volume was merely a launching point for Ara, as she began what is going to be one hell of a long journey. In many ways, the classical fantasy elements of this book mirror Conan, in that it's focused on a singular, independent character venturing into uncharted territory, discovering new worlds and civilizations. We've got a lot planned for Ara in this new volume from crazy creatures and incredible dangers, to pirates and wizards, and perhaps even a love interest."

Jirni #1 will feature two direct edition covers by Pantalena, and will be released at your local comic shop on May 21^st, 2014. Jirni Volume 2 will also feature upcoming covers by Mirka Andolfo (Damsels in Excess), Jordan Gunderson (Executive Assistant: Assassins) and more to be announced by the publisher.

Diamond Codes:

Cover A Direct Edition: MAR48860

Cover B Direct Edition: MAR48861

Cover C Retailer Incentive Edition: MAR48862

Cover D Retailer Incentive Edition: MAR48863

For more information please check www.aspencomics.com and the following official Aspen social media sites:

Facebook.com/aspencomics

Facebook.com/jirnicomic

Twitter.com/aspencomics

Instagram: aspencomics

Aspen MLT, Inc. is an entertainment publishing company founded in January 2003 by superstar comic artist Michael Turner. Priding itself on producing entertainment properties of the highest quality visual and storytelling elements Along with their own successful properties such as Fathom, Soulfire, Executive Assistant: Iris, Charismagic, Broken Pieces and more. Aspen also collaborates with the comic industry's most successful companies and endeavors including Marvel Comics and DC Entertainment. Aspen has collaborated with Marvel for various hit projects, including cover work for the best-selling events Civil War, World War Hulk, and Ultimatum. Aspen collaborated with DC Comics to provide covers for such best-selling titles as Superman/Batman: The Return of Supergirl, The Justice League of America, and Eisner-nominated covers for the critically acclaimed, best-selling Identity Crisis series. In 2006, Aspen joined forces with television giant NBC to create the online comic adaptations for the hit television series Heroes. In 2012, Aspen teamed up with Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Entertainment to produce the horror-adventure series Dead Man’s Run, as well as collaborating with director McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision to produce the horror comic Haunted City. Aspen also produced the one-of-a-kind Anarchy digital graphic novel for the popular body spray company, Axe. Currently, Aspen recently celebrated their tenth anniversary in the industry with their successful and best-selling “10 for 10” initiative.

NYCC News: Aspen Goes Hard for 2014 Announcements

Here is a breakdown of all of the Aspen Comics NYCC Announcements:

New Aspen Series Debuting in 2014:

“Lola” from creator Siya Oum (Charismagic, Executive Assistant: Iris) will be released in Spring 2014 and features a story fully written and illustrated by Oum. Featuring a post-apocalyptic landscape and one woman’s desire to discover the truth about her missing parents while she traverses the landscape known as the “Wasteland” in search of them.

“Damsels in Excess” from creator Vince Hernandez (Charismagic, Trish Out of Water) and Mirka Andolfo (Charismagic, Trish Out of Water) is a fairy tale action-adventure series that centers on a young princess, Bethany, who must survive the deadly threat of her fellow princesses of the Five Realms before they destroy her kingdom—and end her life.

Returning Aspen Series in 2014:

J.T. Krul’s fantasy adventure series “Jirni” returns for a second volume with the original first volume’s art team of Paolo Pantalena and Brett Smith following the breakout success of its initial offering. Aspen will also be releasing a spinoff mini-series written by Krul, “Jirni: Fall of the D’jinn” set for release the same month as the launch of Jirni: Volume 2.

David Wohl and Brad Foxhoven’s “Legend of the Shadow Clan” returns for a second volume as well, following the hit first story arc. The art team of Cory Smith and John Starr will be returning as the series art team for the next volume.

Aspen Novels New Release – “7 to Die”:

Aspen Novels is set to publish “7 To Die” by author Tag Roberts in 2014. Aspen will be adding another novel to their burgeoning line of books this year with the release of “7 To Die” with more to follow soon. “7 TO DIE” tells the story of Lex MacArthur, a bright, but struggling San Francisco college student who inexplicably receives an enigmatic clay pendant with an etched eight-pointed star in the mail. The pendant, which unlocks a bevy of dormant superhuman genes, also ignites Lex’s mission to discover who she is and where she came from. With several new enemies aggressively pursuing her to extort and capitalize on her newfound abilities, Lex is forced to fight for her life and save those she loves from certain death.

Aspen Offering Digital Omnibus Editions on Comixology:

Aspen has teamed up with Comixology to offer large-scale omnibus editions of their popular flagship series Fathom, Soulfire and Executive Assistant: Iris. The Fathom Omnibus Edition Volumes 1 and 2 are available for purchase now, with the Executive Assistant: Iris and Executive Assistant: Assassins Omnibus Editions available on October 16^th. November will see the release of the Soulfire Omnibus Edition Volumes 1 and 2.

Aspen to Produce New Guided View Content For Comixology:

Aspen will be offering all new titles featuring the Guided View feature on Comixology with more news and release dates to be revealed soon.

1st Impressions: JIRNI # 5

JIRNI #5

Written by JT Krul

Art by Paolo Pantalena, Brett Smith & Wes Hartman

Aspen Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:

                Ara decides to deal with Nindar after his “secret way” in the palace turns out to be not so secret. As Ara goes towards the goal of finding her mother, we get Torinthal betraying his Lord. The final show down reveals some more of the origins of the D’jinn as well as a heartbreaking decision from Ara as she fights to rescue her mother.

ART:

                Visually, Pantalena really does a great job with his pencils this issue. The detail to the people and backgrounds are exquisite. Ara looked as deadly as she was beautiful. The action flowed extremely well and, from panel to panel, the issue read and looked more like an anime than a comic. Pantalena’s rich pencils with sharp detail really jumps out at you and never looked better. The colors from Smith and Hartman just flesh out the book even more. The entire book glowed with beauty and a richness in look. And the expressions on the characters faces were well detailed.  A stellar job by this art team.

WRITING:
                Krul continues to write an entertaining joyride as he scribes this final issue of volume 1. Ara has come a long way and Krul develops her, her mother and even Torinthal this issue. Krul dives into the origins of d’jinns in this universe more; giving not only more depth to the characters but speaks on being bound by something or someone. Krul also uses Ara to speak on how people do not understand how big the world is until they go beyond it.
                The dialogue in this issue was very natural. The plot progression was great. Krul leaves you with just enough to want more. My only real gripe is that the issue reads fine but feels just a tad too fast at the end. Otherwise, it is a solid issue with great story and characters with a fitting finale.

OVERALL IMPRESSION:

                While the issue kinda hit a bit a snag with its pacing, it is overall a solid issue. There was resolutions that seemed natural, revelations that definitely fit into the world of Jirni and enough dangling plots to carry over to a second series while allowing this one to stand alone.

RATING:
                I give Jirni # 5 an 8.5 …. Out of 10.

Preview: JIRNI # 5

JIRNI #5
JT Krul ­ Story / Paolo Pantalena ­ Art / Brett Smith - Colors
Take an incredible JIRNI with Aspen's newest hit series!

In a great city at the edge of the world, Ara finally finds her mother, Luna. But finding her and saving her are two very different things - especially with an army of royal guards, a destructive d'jinn, and a wicked sorcerer in her way. It's all been leading up to this as Ara confronts the truth about herself - her past, her present, and even her future; provided
she survives to see it!

After years of preparation, creator JT Krul is ready to take you on a JIRNI unlike any other! Accompanied by the incredible talents of artist Paolo Pantalena and colorist Brett Smith, this is one JIRNI you won't want to miss!

JIRNI #5 is in stores October 9th, 2013!

1st Impression: JIRNI #4 Review

JIRNI # 4
Written by JT Krul
Art by Paolo Pantalena & Brett Smith
Aspen Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:
Ara wakes up after being blasted away by the Djinn, Anjaha … in the arms of a rock creature of unknown origin. She, at first, thinks the rock creature a foe but does not attack her. But when his family attacks Ara, he helps her fend off the rest of the family.

Meanwhile, News of Ara’s “death” reaches Torinthal and Luna. Luna … engraged by the news, for the first time in her capture, goes to her Djinn form and attacks Anjaha … who takes it while Torinthal smiles … cause he has gotten what he wanted.

Ara arrives in the city of Veris at last. As she goes in, she meets a thief named Nindar and that only leads to more troubles.

ART:
I will say that with every issue, Pantalena gets better and better. His detailed pencils really shine in a unique style. There is an edginess that I have not really seen much in sequential art. The panel work definitely pops off the page as Pantalena isn’t afraid of using different perspective shots when making panels, which really works. As usual, great amount of detail with vivid backgrounds.

Kudos to Smith for coloring this beautiful work as well as working on its shading to add depth and texture to Pantalena’s work. The rock people look really textured and Smith pulls of the right color and shading to make them look so. The women look beautiful, except for Rock man’s mommy, while men look strong or a thinner and more cunning. Pantalena and Smith make sure that they giving you a lot to see in the book. A wonderful job by this group.

WRITING:
Krul continues to build upon this new world, giving us mysterious creatures of various shapes and sizes. Alongside that, Krul firmly reminds you that this is Ara’s book. This is the story of Ara and her quest to save her mother and never loses focuses on that as Ara must deal with the rock people and later, her troubles within the city of Veris. Ara’s characterization was handled well, making sure that Ara did not fall into a damsel in distress. Also, Krul does well portraying a mother’s rage when Luna hears the news of her daughter’s death; which was also crafty as Torinthal manipulated the situation into getting what he wanted. Krul handles this well.
Yet, I do find one problem with the issue. The Jump from the rock people to Ara in Veris felt rushed. It messed with the overall pacing. While, all the scenes in the book were indeed enjoyable to read and very well written, this jump at the end felt a bit rushed compared to the rest of the book.

And while I do understand why Krul did it, it just messes with the books flow. Otherwise, great story, great characterization and a good cliffhanger.

OVERALL IMPRESSION:

Krul continues to build this new world of Jirni and it continues to get more and more interesting. We got cat people and now rock people. The art is amazing. And the story is great … save that jump between Ara with the rock people to Ara in Veris. Still, the story continues to entertain and be intriguing and the ending will make you say “Uh oh.”


RATING:

Great art, Great story only hurt by that pacing shift. Solid book by this creative team. I give Jirni # 4 a 8 … out of 10. Buy it on Wednesday.

PREVIEW: JIRNI # 4

JIRNI #4
JT Krul ­ Story / Paolo Pantalena ­ Art / Brett Smith - Colors

Take an incredible JIRNI with Aspen¹s newest hit series!

In the wake of her vicious battle with Anjaha, Ara struggles to grasp her
mysterious connection to the violent d'jinn. But, the time has come for Ara
to face the truth about herself as she finally tracks down her mother along
with Torinthal, the sorcerer who captured her! Yet, that is only if she can
survive the massive Rock Giants of Migara!

After years of preparation, creator JT Krul is ready to take you on a JIRNI
unlike any other! Accompanied by the incredible talents of artist Paolo
Pantalena and colorist Brett Smith, this is one JIRNI you won¹t want to
miss!

JIRNI #4 is in stores July 31st, 2013!

1st Impressions: JIRNI # 3 Review

JIRNI # 3
Written by JT Krul
Art by Paolo Pantalena, Brett Smith, Beth Sotelo & Wes Hartman
Aspen Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:

                We continue our journey with Ara and Nylese as their journey has them find more of Nylese’s people. Meanwhile, we get some back story on Queen Luna … including her origin as well as big clues behind the origin of Ara herself. This, of course, is while she is being strung along with Torinthal, who sent a powerful & deadly djinn after Ara.

                After her people welcome her to the kingdom, Nylese votes to celebrate while Ara wants to leave. Of course, it is too late as the deadly djinn arrives, attacking Ara and Nylese’s people.

ART:

                Paolo Pantalena’s art really shines throughout the entire issue. There is a certain majesty to each issue of this series that he brings that I have not quite seen in other work of his.  Pantalena gives these really powerful, full pencils that just jump out of the page. Besides Ara, none of the other women look exaggerated.  Considering Ara’s body, her porportions being a little exaggerated work for her. The backgrounds are wonderfully lush, vivid and varied between the forest of Nylese’s people to the cities within the book to the mountains. Pantalena really lets his pencil fly with sharp work that catches your eye and does let go.

                Colors by Smith, Sotelo & Hartman really intensify Pantalena’s work. Quieter moments have the lighter touch in terms of colors while the action is given a bit more intensity. You can see it during Ara’s battle with the Djinn that the shading and colors are just slightly more vibrant but in a good way … matching the tone and the action.

                The art team does a superb job with the art this issue.

WRITING:

                JT Krul really steps us the game and plot this issue. We got some details on Luna’s origins as well as clues as to Ara’s. We got some great character development from both Nylese and Ara between their scenes together. Torinthal continues to be that villain that you love to hate cause he’s a bastard through and through. With Luna, he feels he has great power. And that is one of the worst things about Torinthal, even though we barely see him this issue. Krul gives us enough to know that he is a bastard.

                Ara continues to show multiple facets of herself as she is protective of Nylese, caring for her mother and compassionate in battle … when the situation calls it.  The fact that Ara displayed the power to read the Djinn’s feelings was profoundly interesting; opening over how Djinn’s feel when they are taken by a master. That was added on top of the layer of what Luna had stated as she recalled her own origins. 

                This leads to more and more fascinating possibilities for the story to take and what Torinthal is really doing. Krul opens those doors and keeps you held with good story. I admit, I was confused at the start of these series but this issue helps explain a lot and lays the seeds for what is to come nicely with a great cliffhanger.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

                 A story that reveals more about the background of the main players and the main character. A good amount of story with little action but it feels balanced. Nylese’s people welcoming her so easily was a welcomed changed from the normal … “we can’t trust you cause you are from such and such” . The art was dynamic, full of energy, sharp and gripping. A great issue. 

RATING:

                This is a great comic. Even if you hadn’t read the first 2 issues, you won’t be lost. I give Jirni # 3 a 9 … out of 10. 

Preview: JIRNI # 3

JIRNI #3
JT Krul ­ Story / Paolo Pantalena ­ Art / Brett Smith - Colors
Take an incredible JIRNI with Aspen's newest hit series!

Discover a whole new world of adventure! As her companion Nylese reaches the
end of her journey while finally discovering the fabled city of her people,
Ara's road ahead remains ever perilous. Throughout facing many dangers and
threats in her challenging quest, how can she possibly survive Torinthal's
powerful and deadly d'jinn, when it comes seeking her end?

After years of preparation, creator JT Krul is ready to take you on a JIRNI
unlike any other! Accompanied by the incredible talents of artist Paolo
Pantalena and colorist Brett Smith, this is one JIRNI you won¹t want to
miss!

JIRNI #3 is in stores June 26th, 2013!

Comic News: Aspen Comics Announces Exclusives For Phoenix Comic Con 2013

Aspen Comics Announces Phoenix Comic Con 2013 Exclusives

Press Release

05-20-13

Aspen Comics has revealed their much-anticipated Phoenix Comic Con 2013 exclusives as well as their list of creators that will be available at the Aspen Comics Booth #’s 873 and 972 all weekend long.

Aspen creators Frank Mastromauro (Shrugged, Overtaken), Peter Steigerwald (The Zoo Hunters, Lady Mechanika), Vince Hernandez (Charismagic, Executive Assistant: Assassins), Mike DeBalfo (Soulfire) J.T. Krul ( Jirni, Soulfire), Brett Smith (Jirni, Homecoming) Nei Ruffino (Soulfire) and Alex Konat (Fathom) will be appearing at the Aspen Booth throughout the weekend for signings, sketches and more.

The popular Aspen Splash swimsuit pinup book by Aspen returns this year with an oversized special edition featuring both new and classic pieces by Aspen’s top talents and more. The Aspen Booth #873 and 972 will be offering an exclusive Aspen Splash 2013 Phoenix Comics Con edition with a cover by Aspen founder Michael Turner along with superstar colorist Peter Steigerwald, limited to 250 copies.

The best-selling “10 for 10” initiative celebrating ten years of Aspen Comics continues with two all new “10 for 10” exclusives for the convention. Aspen’s critically-acclaimed series Charismagic returned in May and will feature a special Charismagic #2 Phoenix Comic Con 2013 cover by artist Paolo Pantalena and Steigerwald limited to 200 copies, two weeks prior to its release exclusive only for PCC attendees. Aspen will also be offering an exclusive for their new top-selling fantasy series with a Jirni #2 Phoenix Comic Con cover by series artist Pantalena and Steigerwald, limited to 200 copies.

In addition to exclusive comics, Aspen will be releasing an all-new series of their industry-leading art prints including the Aspen Tour Print 2013 Phoenix Comic Con Edition by Michael Turner and Peter Steigerwald limited to 100 editions. Also, Aspen will be offering new Aspen Splash, Charismagic, Jirni and Shrugged prints by Michael Turner, Eric “Ebas” Basaldua and Paolo Pantalena.

For more information please check www.phoenixcomicon.com and aspencomics.com

#Aspen10

Facebook.com/aspencomics

Twitter.com/aspencomics

Instagram: aspencomics

Aspen MLT, Inc. is an entertainment publishing company founded in January 2003 by superstar comic artist Michael Turner. Priding itself on producing entertainment properties of the highest quality visual and storytelling elements Along with their own successful properties such as Fathom, Soulfire, Executive Assistant: Iris,  Charismagic, Broken Pieces and more. Aspen also collaborates with the comic industry's most successful companies and endeavors including Marvel Comics and DC Entertainment. Aspen has collaborated with Marvel for various hit projects, including cover work for the best-selling events Civil War, World War Hulk, and Ultimatum. Aspen collaborated with DC Comics to provide covers for such best-selling titles as Superman/Batman: The Return of Supergirl, The Justice League of America, and Eisner-nominated covers for the critically acclaimed, best-selling Identity Crisis series. In 2006, Aspen joined forces with television giant NBC to create the online comic adaptations for the hit television series Heroes. In 2012, Aspen teamed up with Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Entertainment to produce the horror-adventure series Dead Man’s Run, as well as collaborating with director McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision to produce the horror comic Haunted City. Aspen also produced the one-of-a-kind Anarchy digital graphic novel for the popular body spray company, Axe. Currently, Aspen is celebrating their tenth anniversary in the industry with their “10 for 10” initiative and more original properties forthcoming later in the year.

Straight Forward Reviews: Jirni #2

Hey guys welcome to another edition of Straight Forward Reviews! This time we're looking at issue 2 of Aspen Comics' Jirni. A series that's been getting some hype behind it and has been selling well with it's debut. How does issue 2 hold up?

Review by Jeremias de Leon

Story

This issue begins with Ara traveling with the companion she made in the first issue. As for how that happened, go read that first issue. Ara is determined to look for anything that can help her find her mother and in this issue we see some parallels to her own story with the person she agrees to help. Though of course not exactly the same, as you would see when you get to the end of the issue.

One word comes to mind when it comes to Ara and what I feel from her in this comic. That word is determination. There's some more detailed flashbacks on what happened to her and how she got to be how she is. It really makes her resolve and her anger and sorrow palpable.

There's also a lot of mystery going on. Though you may be able to see where some things are going it's still intriguing plus, just because things look like they're going one way it's very possible it could do a 180. The writing in this really is a lot better than you might think.

Art

The art is truly gorgeous. The effects of Ara's power and the other magically powered beings magic are done really well. The action scenes are fluid and brutal. It's almost like a ballet of destruction in a way whenever Ara fights. The characters themselves are designed beautifully. They all have grace to them and the coloring work, with a lot of purples and blues mixed in with earth tones gives the comic a feel that there is magic at work because it's so different looking from the rest of the world. Even after reading the comic you might want to go back and just look at the art again because it's so pretty.



Verdict

I was honestly much more impressed by this work than I thought I would be. The writing isn't bad and the art is well, in plain english, just so darn pretty I can't see why I would stop anyone from picking this up. I give Jirni #2 a deserved 9 out of 10.

Preview: Jirni # 2

JIRNI #2
JT Krul ­ Story / Paolo Pantalena ­ Art / Brett Smith - Colors

Take an incredible JIRNI with Aspen¹s newest hit series!

Discover a whole new world of adventure! As Ara's fortuitous quest
continues, her path is shrouded in mystery. Upon arriving in a remote
village struggling to survive through desperate times, she discovers someone
who might offer answers to the questions that torment her. But as Ara has
learned time and again, nothing shall come easy in this unrelenting world.
Will she have the strength and courage to venture into the pit of darkness
itself to find the truth - not only about her missing mother but about
herself as well?

After years of preparation, creator JT Krul is ready to take you on a JIRNI
unlike any other! Accompanied by the incredible talents of artist Paolo
Pantalena and colorist Brett Smith, this is one JIRNI you won¹t want to
miss!

JIRNI #2 is in stores May 22nd, 2013!

Comic News: Aspen's Jirni Sales Top Selling Non Premier Book

ASPEN’S THIRD “10 FOR 10” RELEASE JIRNI #1 SELLS OVER 35K COPIES

Press Release             

05-08-13

Aspen is pleased to announce that the third release in their ambitious “10 for 10” initiative, Jirni #1, has ordered in excess of over 35,000 copies and is the top-selling non premier book for the month of April, 2013. This is the third release in a row from Aspen Comics to secure the top spot for the Diamond small press rankings following the debuts of Legend of the Shadow Clan #1 and Shrugged #1. Due to the high demand for the issue, the Aspen Reserved Edition covers for the issue are currently sold out at the Diamond level. As a result, the publisher has pledged to offer their own personal quantities of the sold out Reserved Edition covers to help fulfill retailers’ orders. Creator J.T. Krul discusses the successful release of his new series:

"I am thrilled by the tremendous response to the premiere issue of Jirni. Much of the credit goes to Paolo Pantalena and Brett Smith for their incredible job of bringing Jirni's fantastic world to life. I know readers and retailers have hundreds of choices when to it comes to choosing comic books, and I am grateful they have given our book a chance. It only motivates us more. Issue #2 can't get here soon enough. It's only gets better."

Aspen is pricing each debut #1 “10 for 10” issue for the affordable price of only $1 and is also offering other incentives for each release such as original hand-drawn sketch covers, CGC editions, and special retailer incentive covers by popular artists J. Scott Campbell and Eric “Ebas” Basaldua, as well as a Jirni #2 cover by Philip Tan.

Fans and new Aspen readers who add each of the “10 for 10” titles to their comic shop’s local subscription service will be eligible to receive the special Aspen Reserved Edition variant covers. Those fans who collect all ten Aspen Reserved Edition #1 covers will receive a free full-size Aspen “Perfect 10’s” Jam Poster featuring all ten “10 for 10” covers on one image colored by superstar colorist Peter Steigerwald. The Jirni #1 Aspen Reserved Edition cover features artwork by Paolo Pantalena and Steigerwald.

Aspen encourages everyone to check out the release of Jirni #1 for only $1 as well as the second issue on May 22^nd, 2013..

For more information please check the following:

www.aspencomics

www.aspenstore.com

Facebook.com/aspencomics

Facebook.com/jirni

Twitter.com/aspncomics

Instagram: aspencomics

#Aspen10

Aspen MLT, Inc. is an entertainment publishing company founded in January 2003 by superstar comic artist Michael Turner. Priding itself on producing entertainment properties of the highest quality visual and storytelling elements Along with their own successful properties such as Fathom, Soulfire, Executive Assistant: Iris,  Charismagic, Broken Pieces and more. Aspen also collaborates with the comic industry's most successful companies and endeavors including Marvel Comics and DC Entertainment. Aspen has collaborated with Marvel for various hit projects, including cover work for the best-selling events Civil War, World War Hulk, and Ultimatum. Aspen collaborated with DC Comics to provide covers for such best-selling titles as Superman/Batman: The Return of Supergirl, The Justice League of America, and Eisner-nominated covers for the critically acclaimed, best-selling Identity Crisis series. In 2006, Aspen joined forces with television giant NBC to create the online comic adaptations for the hit television series Heroes. In 2012, Aspen teamed up with Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Entertainment to produce the horror-adventure series Dead Man’s Run, as well as collaborating with director McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision to produce the horror comic Haunted City. Aspen also produced the one-of-a-kind Anarchy digital graphic novel for the popular body spray company, Axe. Currently, Aspen is celebrating their tenth anniversary in the industry with their “10 for 10” initiative and more original properties forthcoming later in the year.

Jirni # 1 Review

JIRNI # 1
Written by JT Krul
Art by Paolo Pantalena & Brett Smith
Aspen Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

            A young … evish woman and her father are being attacked and we get our first introduction to our main character, Jirni. She seems very crass at first, killing all of the Hrugites, seemingly related to Orcs from the look of them. She then saves the woman. The woman though runs to her father who dies in her arms but not before our heroine tells her that it is usually time to say think for after she killed all the Hrugites.

            We find that our main character is named Ara.  Ara tells a story of the last time she saw her mother, which we find out is who she is looking for. Meanwhile, we meet our antagonist in large fashion as he has a D’jinn kill a group of thieves that were attacking him, his driver and … low and behold … SPOILER, NOT TELLING.

            The book ends with Ara on her own journey but with lots of questions.


ART:

            Paolo Pantalena has a very distinct style of his own. And it is rendered extremely well here. Pantalena performs some strong, expressive panel work as we meet our heroine … killing things after a shot of the Hrugites eating that one evish man alive! Yes. That is within the first few pages. The characters look distinct enough. Smith’s colors explode on each page, really making Pantalena’s work stand out.

            There is a strong sense of  mystical worlds being blended to this as we got the Orc inspired Hrugites, the very Arabian inspired heroine and the evish looking people, making a diverse mix that really sets this world apart from others. Pantalena & Smith really bring out this new, interesting world. The somewhat thick inks works for Pantalena’s art where most others, it would fail. While some of the inks seem to bleed a little, that is my only real gripe. A great first showing by Pantalena & Smith.


WRITING:

            JT Krul introduces you to a new world in a fast and exciting pace. There are mysteries to our main heroine and we, as readers, get to learn those secrets with her. Krul gets really sets Ara up as a complicated hero. There is a lot of depth for Ara in this first issue because of  her attitude in the beginning of the issue, to the treatment of her rescuee after the battle with the Hrugites.

            The mysteries behind the D’jinn and main villain made their first appearance impressive, memorable and sets up one of the main plots. The issue was paced well. And while the ending was decent, it felt that the issue stopped more than ended but still Krul really brings his A game this issue.

OVERALL IMPRESSION:

            Interesting characters, wonderous world, intriguing plot and storyline build a compelling start of Jirni. There doesn’t seem like much in this beginning but she does grow strong. Pantalena and Smith give you a varied, mystical work of Krul’s design with a heroine who is multi-faceted. A strong, new series for Aspen.


RATING:

            Jirni # 1 gets a 8.5 out of 10. Great start. Buy it now.

Aspen MAY 2013 Solicitations

CHARISMAGIC #1

Vince Hernandez – Story / Vincenzo Cucca – Art / Emilio Lopez - Colors

CHARISMAGIC returns as Aspen’s newest ‘10 for 10’ debut!

Magician Hank Medley thought he had everything figured out. After saving the world from an ancient, ruinous evil, with the help of a Druid named Sudana and his magical talking cat Sparkles, Hank discovers the true nature of dark magic has arrived in his own realm—our world! Now, the trio must attempt to put an end to catastrophic events that will threaten to tear Earth apart under the weight of such a menace. Featuring a returning cast of Charismagic’s favorite characters along with several new and astonishing faces and creatures of magic, this new volume of CHARISMAGIC is a perfect jumping-on point for all!

Joined by the sensational artwork of Vincenzo Cucca, CHARISMAGIC creator Vince Hernandez and colorist Emilio Lopez are ready to take you on an amazing ride in this newest volume of the acclaimed hit series. Be prepared because everything you thought you knew about magic is about to vanish!

CHARISMAGIC #1 is in stores May 1^st, 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                 $1.00                          

JIRNI #2

JT Krul – Story / Paolo Pantalena – Art / Brett Smith - Colors

Take an incredible JIRNI with Aspen’s newest hit series!

Discover a whole new world of adventure! As Ara's fortuitous quest continues, her path is shrouded in mystery. Upon arriving in a remote village struggling to survive through desperate times, she discovers someone who might offer answers to the questions that torment her. But as Ara has learned time and again, nothing shall come easy in this unrelenting world. Will she have the strength and courage to venture into the pit of darkness itself to find the truth - not only about her missing mother but about herself as well?

After years of preparation, creator JT Krul is ready to take you on a JIRNI unlike any other! Accompanied by the incredible talents of artist Paolo Pantalena and colorist Brett Smith, this is one JIRNI you won’t want to miss!

JIRNI #2 is in stores May 22^nd, 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99              

SHRUGGED #3

Frank Mastromauro – Story / Jonathan Marks – Art / Beth Sotelo - Colors

The long awaited return of SHRUGGED continues!

You think you’re prepared, but you’re not. You’ve been decisive in your actions up to this point, but now things have been turned upside down. You feel you’ve conformed your mindset and are ready to accept what you’re about to experience, but you haven’t. That’s because SHRUGGED is back and ready to blow your mind!

Perspecta has a new dark ruler as Lord Slive revels in his takeover and now plans his attack on planet Earth. Barely surviving with his life, Magnuss, the ousted true leader of Perspecta, reaches out for help, but who will come to his aid? Meanwhile, Theo’s girl troubles are heating up as he’s torn between the three women in his life. Those may be the least of his worries though because something bad has happened to Ange and Dev, and Theo may not survive their new transformations!

Created by Michael Turner and Frank Mastromauro, with illustrations by newcomer Jonathan Marks and colors by Beth Sotelo, make sure to listen to the voices inside your head and pick up the newest issue of SHRUGGED today!

SHRUGGED #3 is in stores May 15^th, 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99              

LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN #4

David Wohl – Story / Cory Smith – Art / Jon Starr - Colors

What is the mystery of the LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN?

Now that Morgan Himura and her family have learned that they're descendants of a long line of ninja warriors called the Shadow Clan, one would think that their lives would vastly improve. Especially since the Himura siblings seem to be gaining a better understanding of their unique abilities and talents--especially Morgan, who has always excelled at anything she's put her mind to. But, there's a reason why the Shadow Clan had been in hiding for centuries--and now that the Himuras are out in the open, their ancient enemy, the Ghost Clan, has wasted no time in tracking them down. Ready or not, today is the day the Ghost Clan takes the fight to the Shadow Clan!

Writer David Wohl is joined by the artistic talents of Cory Smith and colorist John Starr, as they bring to you the thrilling new adventures of the LEGEND OF THE SHADOWCLAN!

LEGEND OF THE SHADOWCLAN #4 is in stores May 8^th, 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99                          

ASPEN SPLASH 2013 SWIMSUIT SPECTACULAR – ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Michael Turner / Peter Steigerwald / Joe Benitez / Alex Konat / Beth Sotelo / Micah Gunnell / Siya Oum / John Starr / Marcus To / Francis Manapul / Talent Caldwell / Ale Garza / Khary Randolph / Mike DeBalfo / and many more! – Art

 

The fan favorite ASPEN SPLASH issue makes waves again this summer!

Join Aspen as we celebrate ten amazing years of publication by offering this special ASPEN SPLASH 2013 SWIMSUIT SPECTACULAR Anniversary Edition issue featuring a gigantic roster of Aspen’s finest artists from past to present! Including many of the most breathtaking and classic pin-ups over our first ten year span—including founder Michael Turner’s most iconic pieces, as well as a host of new gorgeous pin-ups showcasing tons of fan favorite Aspen characters. Jam-packed from cover to cover with nothing but breathtaking art, this exclusive Anniversary Edition is one swimsuit spectacular that simply cannot be missed!

ASPEN SPLASH 2013 SWIMSUIT SPECTACULAR – ANNIVERSARY EDITION

is in stores May 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                $3.99              

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: ASSASSINS #11

Vince Hernandez – Writer / Giuseppe Cafaro – Art / Teo Gonzalez  - Colors

Executive Assistant Lotus takes center stage!

Explore the creation of a master assassin and the tragic past of Executive Assistant Lotus in “Bloodline”, the origin of one of the EA Universe’s most popular—and deadly--heroines. As a child raised in India, Rani (Lotus) was continually teased amongst her peers for her vulnerability and proclivity towards technology and science. However, following a horrific turn of events that shatters her existence at its core, Rani must choose to grow up fast, and to rely on her survival instincts and technical expertise in order to survive—or die!

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: ASSASSINS #11 is in stores May 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                $3.99              

SOULFIRE (vol 4) #7

J.T. Krul – Story / Mike DeBalfo ; Giuseppe Cafaro – Art / Nei Ruffino  - Colors

Michael Turner’s epic fantasy adventure approaches its climatic finale!

Once before, Malikai was lost to the world of the living, trapped in a hellish abyss of chaos and misery. Thanks to Grace and his friends, he was saved and given another chance at life. So what on Earth could bring him to return to that desolate realm? The time has come for Malikai to journey beyond the edge of all existence and come face-to-face with one of the driving forces behind all creation - Behold! The great god of Chaos!

SOULFIRE (vol 4) #7 is in stores May 2013!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99              

CHARISMAGIC VOL 1: THE VANISHING TPB

Vince Hernandez – Story / Khary Randolph – Art / Emilio Lopez - Colors

 

Everything we thought we knew about magic will...Vanish.

Hank Medley is a Las Vegas magician at the top of his game. For Hank, everything comes easy: women, fame, and overwhelming fortune. However, 'Hank the Magnificent' soon realizes that in Sin City, your luck can change at the drop of a hat--or wand--in his case. Powerful forces of magic once banished from our reality have returned, and Hank is about to step out of his stage show “Charismagic”, and into a world where the wonders of magic have not only come back, but are even flourishing! However, with some of these newly arrived beings intent on vengeance for deeds done to them in the past, will Hank be able to survive this new landscape of reality-and magic?

Collecting together the sold out zero issue and issues 1-6, along with a complete cover gallery and an extensive sketchbook section, magical creatures of myth and legend, wizards and sorcerers of immense power, and so much more come to life in this thrilling first volume of the critically-acclaimed series, CHARISMAGIC!

CHARISMAGIC VOL 1: THE VANISHING TPB is in stores May 2013!

FC                               184 pages                               $18.99