The Fortress Of Solitude: September 2012

Sunday, September 30, 2012

Comic Of The Week: 09302012

The comic of this week (so far) has got to be Ultimate Comics' The Ultimates. If only for the reason that Captain America gets elected as the President of the United States of America. The funny thing is... in this storyline, the states are not so united. So Cap's first act as the POTUS is to unite the country by hitting all the trouble spots and war zones that are dividing the country and cutting through any red tape to get the job done quickly and efficiently. It's a little cheesy, but it's still a great story. Probably the cheesiest line in the whole issue is Cap's response to the question of if he'll move into the White House: "America is my White House."

Pick up Ultimate Comics' The Ultimates #16 at your local comic shop or on www.comixology.com.

My apologies for the abbreviated nature of today's posts. Last week was incredibly tiring, and I barely got any time in to read any comics or even listen to any music. Life (mainly work) happens. Enjoy your week, folks!

LAW: 09302012

Lycurtis' Artist of the Week is the duet between Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson: "Say Say Say." This song always cheers me up without fail. The video is entertaining, although, it is a bit weird seeing Latoya Jackson as a suggested love interest in the video for her brother Michael. Really? There were no other actresses available? Anyway, this song and video epitomize the 80s for me, and it still stands the test of time today. Enjoy.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Comic Book Pulls: 09262012

And it's New Comic Book Wednesday again! I am super excited today to get these titles. I am especially looking forward to Talon #0 (a new ongoing spinning out of The Court Of Owls storyline from Batman) and Ultimate Comics The Ultimates #16 (Captain America is voted in as the POTUS). Enjoy your Humpday!

Title	Publisher
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #694	Marvel
AQUAMAN #0	DC
BATMAN THE DARK KNIGHT #0	DC
BEFORE WATCHMEN OZYMANDIAS #3 (MR)	DC
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND BLACK WIDOW #637	Marvel
CAPTAIN MARVEL #4	Marvel
FLASH #0	DC
GAMBIT #3	Marvel
I VAMPIRE #0	DC
INCREDIBLE HULK #14	Marvel
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #525	Marvel
JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #0	DC
PUNISHER #16	Marvel
SAVAGE HAWKMAN #0	DC
SECRET AVENGERS #31	Marvel
SUPERMAN #0	DC
TALON #0	DC
ULTIMATE COMICS ULTIMATES #16 UWS	Marvel
WINTER SOLDIER #11	Marvel
WOLVERINE #313	Marvel
WOLVERINE AND X-MEN #17	Marvel
X-MEN LEGACY #274	Marvel
X-TREME X-MEN #4	Marvel

Sunday, September 23, 2012

LAW: 09232012

This week's LAW has me feeling a bit nostalgic. I remember hearing this song on the lite rock station when I was a kid. It was the only station my father would let us listen to unsupervised as children. I had this song on a mix tape that I played constantly in my Walkman. I'd rewind and play this song over and over again on family trips / vacations. This song and Robbie Dupree's Steal Away.

Man, I wish I kept my old mix tapes. Some of those songs, such as this one, are hard to find on iTunes or Amazon MP3. I was able to find a copy of the song somewhere online finally. But, it was really difficult to get a copy with good, crisp quality. This song is one of my treasures from my childhood. The beat is so hypnotic and has kind of an island flavor to it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

This is Alibis by Sergio Mendes with Joe Pizzulo on vocals.

Comic Of The Week: 09232012

The pick this week is what fans of the Justice League have been waiting for. Justice League #0: a full issue devoted to the origin of the hero formerly known as Captain Marvel. SHAZAM!

DC Comics has decided to give the moniker of Shazam to Billy Batson. Remember, Shazam was the name of the wizard that gave Batson his magical powers. And Shazam was also the word he spoke when he wanted to change into the hero.

Shazam's origin story has been running as a back up story written by Geoff Johns and drawn by Gary Frank in the Justice League issues. It has been a very slow read so far, mainly because all you get are maybe 4 pages each month dedicated to the story. But this issue finally let us see the first appearance of Shazam. We also get a realistic story of what would happen of a poor, bullied teenage orphan was bestowed the powers of a god. Some of the scenes are hilarious. And the facial expressions of the transformed Batson realizing the extent of his powers is classic.

Best line of the whole issue... After realizing just what they've found and its potential, Freddie Freeman says to Shazam, "You know what this means, right? WE'RE GONNA BE RICH!" Awesome. Very realistic portrayal and excellently updated for these times.

Great issue. Pick up Justice League #0 at your local comic shop or digitally on www.Comixology.com.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Comic Book Pulls: 09192012

And here are the comics on my pull list for today. Relatively small list compared to last week and next week. That's fine. I still have to get through all of last week's issues, as well as the digital issues I purchased from ComiXology. Wallowing in my vice!

I'm looking forward to Before Watchmen: Nite Owl, Venom, and the final issue of the miniseries Spider-Men.

Title	Publisher
AVENGERS #30 AVX	Marvel
BATWOMAN #0	DC
BEFORE WATCHMEN NITE OWL #3 (MR)	DC
DAREDEVIL #18	Marvel
DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #0 (NOTE PRICE)	DC
JUSTICE LEAGUE #0	DC
MIGHTY THOR #20 BURNS	Marvel
NIGHTWING #0	DC
SPIDER-MEN #5	Marvel
ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #15 DWF	Marvel
ULTIMATE COMICS ULTIMATES #15 DWF	Marvel
VENOM #25	Marvel
WONDER WOMAN #0	DC

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Comic Of The Week: 09162012

This is probably an unpopular choice, but the comic of the week is Avengers Vs. X-Men #11. I've read on a lot of sites where the ratings for this comic were pretty low. Mainly because of how long and drawn out the series is. I kind of agree, as I am not a fan of huge blockbuster, summer crossover events. However, the issue itself is a good one. It reminds you how Cyclops got to this place. It reminds you of the relationships he has with his fellow X-Men and their leader. And it reminds you that he did not start out as a villain. His intent was always good. As a matter of fact, he didn't even start this fight. He tries to shape the world for the better and SUCCEEDS, and all he experiences, from his perspective, are betrayals by the people he has sworn to protect. You can see how it might push one over the edge.

Anyway, the story moves on (finally). And issue 12 will end this event, with several new titles and reboots spinning out of the aftermath. Hey, Marvel, didn't you blast DC for doing that same thing last year, hmmm? No hate, just sayin'...

LAW: 09162012

I'd always heard of and about John Coltrane. You always hear about these people talking about how he was an influence to them artistically. And you could for sure find some of his music on a movie soundtrack somewhere. Probably the only thing I'd heard from him in passing was My Favorite Things. But I never really listened to this style of jazz before this week. My speed was always the Boney James and Dave Koz variety. And there is nothing wrong with that. It's the type of jazz to which I was accustomed.

However, Coltrane is more than the instrument or the part he plays in the musical piece. Coltrane IS the music. Some of the work feels so fluid and uninhibited. It's like he just went into the studio and free-styled. Stream of consciousness jazz. He makes it seem so effortless and without structure. The music just evolves in the moment. Beautiful.

This week's artist is John Coltrane with Blue Train. Enjoy.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Older

I am awake at 5:30 in the morning on a Saturday. I can only think that it wasn't that long ago that this was the time I would normally be getting in. Just a sign of getting older, I suppose. While I'm at it, I may as well mention other signs that I've noticed.

I remember maybe five or six years ago that I only really needed four hours of sleep. I would stay up late playing online games like Slingo or Literati or Yahoo! Pool. Good times. Great chats with some friends. Even some late night phone calls with old friends just shooting the breeze. Some nights, I would get to bed at 3 am and get ready for work at 7. No longer. It's a miracle if I can stay awake past 11 anymore.

I also remember being able to come home from work, shower, redress, and head out to party with friends well on into the wee morning hours. I can still do that... Just on two conditions: 1. It's not on a "school night" and 2. I get home from work early enough to get a nap.

I used to be able to eat whatever I wanted without repercussions. Those days are over. I have to plan for splurging on good foods that are bad for me. It has to be on a weekend. The office is not a good place for Montezuma to take out his vengeance. And there's no sense in wasting sick / vacay days if you don't have to.

I keep my head shaved out of convenience. No muss, no fuss. Recently, I've let my hair grow out. I am now accepting the fact that this lightness in my hair is not the dog's hair caught in mine. It's not dandruff. And it's not lightweight filler from the putty manufacturing facility where I work. It's gray.

Here's the thing. I do not feel old. These effects suck, but my spirit refuses to accept any aging. I am still a kid at heart. I realize that taking better care of my body is necessary. And oddly enough, once that happens, the late nights partying and drinking and getting in late will be counterproductive to a healthy lifestyle. I guess it's time to grow up and stay young.

I am off to start the day. Be well and swell.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Comic Book Pulls: 09122012

And here are the comic book pulls for this week. It looks to be a mighty haul. I am adding DC Comics' Team 7 to my pull list today. The human countermeasure to the metahuman / alien situation on Earth. Amanda Waller, Slade Wilson (Deathstroke), and Grifter on the same team? Yes. Please. Thank you.

Monday, September 10, 2012

Healey

Jeff Healey was the man. That is all.

X

EXCLUSIVE: "X" Makes His Dark Horse Return With Swierczynski - Comic Book Resources
My Monday has definitely been made. I remember collecting this comic in the mid 90s. I loved this character. The design was awesome, and the storyline and concept were epic. December cannot come quick enough. YES!!!

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Comic Of The Week: 09092012

DC Comics released Phantom Stranger #0 this week as part of their New 52 zero issue initiative. These number zero issues are supposed to explain the events that led up to the status quo in the DC Universe as well as introduce new titles into the mix. Phantom Stranger is one of these new titles.
I picked this up on a whim, and I even had it added to my pull list for the future. Am I ever glad I did!
The best part of the issue is the not so subtle hint of the character's origins. Well done. The tie into a Biblical origin is an awesome one. As well, the introduction of a much beloved character gives this issue a little "spirit" and hope for maybe a future series? Given the emphasis on magic these days in DC, I am hoping this is the case.
Phantom Stranger #0 is the comic of the week. Pick it up at your local comic shop or on www.Comixology.com.

LAW: 09092012

This week's artist is Depeche Mode with a live version of their song Home. I first heard this song three years ago this week at their concert here in Atlanta. A group of friends invited me along that night and it was probably the best night I have ever had out as well as the best gathering of friends I've ever been a part of. This song is so beautiful when done live. It almost makes you misty-eyed hearing Gore's performance along with the audience. I am posting a live performance so you can see and feel what I witnessed during the end of this song. Great show.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Wonder

ICv2 - 'Wonder Woman' in Development as TV Series Again
My only suggestion: Lynda Carter as Diana's mother Hippolyta. You're welcome.
Until this becomes the real deal, I am happily settling with Arrow on the CW this fall.

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Tired

So why is it that the short weeks always feel so long? Golly.

This has been one heck of a week. I will be so glad to see tomorrow come. And I will be even gladder when the workday ends, and I am able to start the weekend. All I can think about is the rest I am hoping to get this weekend. I don't have anything planned aside from hanging out with "Lois" and "Krypto". I don't have any yardwork to do. No errands to run. Just a quiet weekend. I'm hoping it will be more relaxing than last weekend.

You would've thought I'd get a nap scheduled in during the three-day weekend. But, 'twas not to be. Heck, I didn't even get all of my comics read. I still have comics from last week to read. Now, that's not a complaint. I love the fact that I have more comics than I know what to do with. I just wish I had more time to catch up with the storylines before they get spoiled for me via social media.

Ok. Enough of my whining. Let's move on to some positive notes:

My new cubicle neighbor is a good friend of mine I've known for close to 14 years. Sometimes, you worry that too much closeness can ruin a relationship. Well, so far, so splendid. As of this writing, I'm enjoying the company. It also rocks that she can't hear my music. So there's no need to adjust the volume.
I tried making buffalo chicken dip the other day. It didn't turn out as tasty as I thought it would. However, I think I have found just the tweak to make it a winner. So I'm looking forward to making it again, and I'm also looking for some hungry guinea pigs. I also made the sausage-cream cheese dip. Always a winner.
I ran across the following interview today from Michael Shannon (General Zod) regarding the upcoming Man Of Steel movie. Social media will be my Achilles' heel if I'm trying to avoid spoilers. But I cannot help myself. Worry not. There are no spoilers in the video below. It just makes me happy that this movie is actually on its way to seeing the light of day.

Get More: Movie Trailers, Movies Blog

And that's it for now. I am thinking I will read a few comics and fall asleep doing so. Here's to an insomnia-free evening and a quick, trouble-free Friday.

Baz

Geoff Johns On the New Arab Green Lantern - Speakeasy - WSJ
A great article regarding the introduction of Arab-American Simon Baz as the new Green Lantern. Geoff Johns has done an amazing job setting up this character and the scenarios that could come out of this change. Could be comic of the week.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Mason

I am already on disc 4 of Perry Mason: Season 4. I have been watching an episode or two a night since I purchased the DVDs. This show was one of the all time best courtroom dramas ever. My father introduced me to this show as a kid. Summer vacation was spent at home eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches while watching the greatest legal eagle put the smackdown on Hamilton Burger and Lt. Tragg. My father was unemployed at the time. So we watched the show together when he wasn't out looking for work. One of my best memories.

It never ceased to amaze me how he could get folks to admit to murder with such flimsy evidence sometimes. Law And Order's Jack McCoy has nothing on Mr. Mason.

Again?

Ok. So I really needed a place where I could be a little more creative with my blogs. As much as I've used LiveJournal in the past, Blogger has never let me down when it comes to creativity and customization. So I'm back again... again. I will still be checking my friends pages over on LiveJournal. But this is my new home for now.

If you've followed my blogs before, you'll know pretty much what to expect: comic book reviews, LAW posts (Lycurtis' Artist of the Week), work stuff, and whatever else pops into my head. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride... er, read.

I still have some "moving in" to do. I'm trying to figure out a motif to go with this page. At any rate, stay tuned. Catch you later!

Title	Publisher
AVENGERS VS X-MEN #11 AVX	Marvel
AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #12	Marvel
BATGIRL #0	DC
BATMAN #0	DC
BATMAN AND ROBIN #0	DC
BEFORE WATCHMEN COMEDIAN #3 (MR)	DC
CAPTAIN AMERICA #17	Marvel
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND BLACK WIDOW #636	Marvel
DEATHSTROKE #0	DC
FANTASTIC FOUR #610	Marvel
HE MAN AND THE MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE #2	DC
INCREDIBLE HULK #13	Marvel