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: LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN # 5

LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN # 5
Written by David Wohl & Brad Foxhoven
Art by Cory Smith & John Starr
Aspen Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:

                It is the final issue of the first miniseries. And it goes out with a bang. We got Brayden and Pogo dealing with some drones sent out by Koji. Meanwhile, Morgan and her grandfather end up trying to help police. Once Pogo uses his skills to figure out where Koji and his parents are, he tells Morgan. Their grandfather then has the police travel behind him to Koji’s base where the final battle ensues.

                As Brayden and Pogo end up facing Koji, the rest of their family tries to escape . ..


ART:

                Cory Smith gives a strong showing this issue. With some movement, technology and embracing backgrounds, Smith really gives your eyes something to look at. The action was well displayed. The people’s bodies were distinctive.  Smith’s art is very smooth with clean lines and sharp inks that give the art depth.

                Starr’s colors really help gives Smith’s art depth and mood lights each panel.  Smith and Starr work well together to give you an exciting, action packed comic. What I love from Smith and Starr is that this book takes place during the evening and they color and shade to give that illusion.

                The art was rendered well and very enjoyable.


WRITING:

                Wohl and Foxhoven give us a climatic ending that is somewhat pleasing but does have an issue.  While the book had a great, action packed ending that was exciting, it had one main issue: the Ending was too fast.  There was a lot that went on in this issue that would have benefited if it had another issue left to stretch it out, then the story would have been perfect.  Yet, the opening few pages were paced well but the second half of the book moved way too fast for the ending.  The break neak pace at the end ties everything up too quickly. It takes away from the story. 

                Legend of the Shadow Clan # 5 has great dialogue, showed off wonderful  characterization and has good action. Wohl is a master with characterization & narration and displays it this issue.  This is pretty good writing but a misstep there at the end.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

                The book ends well but not great. The quick ending holds it from being perfect. Still, great art and good story ends out this first miniseries.

RATING:

                I give Legend of the Shadow Clan # 5 a 7 out of 10.

Preview: LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN # 5

LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN #5
David Wohl ­ Story / Cory Smith ­ Art / Jon Starr - Colors

The mystery of the LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN is finally unveiled!

Ancient truths of the Shadow Clan are shockingly revealed in the
pulse-pounding, epic finale! The Himura family must band together for the
first time ever in their attempt to restore the honor of their lineage, and
more importantly--in order to survive the bloody vengeance of the Ghost
Clan!

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

LEGEND OF THE SHADOWCLAN #5 is in stores July 3rd, 2013!

Preview: Legend of the Shadow Clan # 4

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 8th, 2013!

StraightForward Reviews: Legend of the Shadow Clan issue 4

Welcome to what I, xaos aka Jeremias de Leon, will now be calling StraightForward Reviews for all my comic reviews. This time I'll be looking at Legend of The Shadow Clan issue 4.

review by Jeremias de Leon

Story

This issue sees the young members of the Himura family finding out they used to be ninjas. This would be cool if the way they found out if the young Morgan Himura wasn't being attacked by armed people. The rest of the issue sees her and her other family members try to deal with this information and try not to get killed. Just as you would expect if this happened in real life (because this happens all the time right?) they are more confused and questioning than accepting. All this of course leads to interesting fight and chase scenes.

Art

If nothing else about this comic catches your fancy the art will. This comic is all about action sequences and they are all done spectacularly. The characters movements look great and impacts from hits look believable. The character designs are nice to look at as well.

Verdict

At the end of the day this was a fun comic. If you decided to just jump in from this issue you might want to hold off on that and buy the previous 3 issues first. I usually don't mention buying previous issues in my reviews but for this series I believe that you should buy those issues to really enjoy this comic not to say that it isn't enjoyable on it's own. I give this an issue an 8.5 out of 10

Legend of the Shadow Clan # 2 Review

LEGEND OF THE SHADOW CLAN # 2
Written by Brad Foxhoven & David Wohl
Art by Cory Smith & John Starr
Aspen Comics


FLIPPLING THROUGH:

            We open to Koji Tokurei giving a verbal lashing to his ninja, then go over surveillance footage of what happened to the Ninja that Richard Himura killed. Yes. Mild mannered Richard Himura kicked a ninja’s ass all by himself.
           
            Meanwhile, after being interrogated about Darren’s murder, Richard gets to go free … thanks to his father. His father says they need to talk but Richard was not in the mood. Richard returns to his family, who welcome him home but then the kids go to school.
           

            At school, Brayden is in detention but leaves to follow a pair of twins he thinks are hot … getting into some trouble. Meanwhile, young Pogo feels like something is up and figures out that something happened to Darren. It ends back with Koji deciding his next move.


ART:

            Cory Smith has very sharp, detailed work. The backgrounds are beautiful. His men and women are very distinct. You can easily tell each character from the other. There is something of a rhythm in this book’s art. It flows well, panel to panel. Being dynamic when it needs to be to tell a story but not crazy for the sake of being crazy.

            Smith’s sharp art is brought to life strongly with the help of John Starr’s colors. With the pencils and inks being so sharp, Starr’s colors really step up Smith’s art. The cinematic feel of the pages at times really fit with the store. This art team is impressive in this second issue.


WRITING:

            In the first issue, there was a LOT of exposition. Yet, this issue, we get a great balance. While there was no major action during the issue, the plot advanced well. The pacing of the book really helped ease through the scene changes. And we got a rich amount of character development.

            Wohl and Foxhoven really do a great job giving the characters voices this issue. From Eva, to Richard, to Koji to Brayden. Each voice is distinct with a personality. Again, the pacing this issue was excellent as it is ground work for what is next but still very interesting and helped fleshed out the characters more. A better job this issue from Wohl and Foxhoven.



OVERALL IMPRESSIION:

            Legend of the Shadow Clan # 2 takes out the wordy exposition, replacing it with great dialogue that feels very authentic. The characters look and feel very real. The plot and characters are appealing. Great art and a solid story that is moving along, much like an action movie. Legend of the Shadow Clan # 2 is a great mid point for the story, making everything move along with no really dragging or feeling as if it is moving too fast. Great job but the creative team here.


RATING:

            Legend of the Shadow Clan # 2 does a great job doing a little world building, character development and overall moving of the plot with stunning art. Pick it up!

            I give Legend of the Shadow Clan # 2 an 8.5 out of 10.

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

Preview: Legend of the Shadow Clan # 2