<DT> <B>A</B> Vol 1 Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>William Brown felt the need to retire his President Bill
character after the real President Bill got elected. Fortunately
he's now doing Citizen Bill, all done in his unique scratchboard
style.<P>
Only six strips in this one as William is working on his new
project. It mostly documents the trouble in Takoma Park. <P>
Nice stuff. It looks like they're based very closely on *Citizen*
William Brown's real life.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $10.00 for 6 issues to
William Brown, P.O. Box 5216, Takoma Park, MD 20913-0216
(12 Pages/HL/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>A</B> Vol 1 Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>William Brown retired his President Bill character but
fortunately he's now doing Citizen Bill, all done in his unique
scratchboard style.<P>
In addition to the strips, William Brown included a rant about
Haiti in which he explained how he came to support this military
invasion. <P>
Nice stuff. It looks like they're based very closely on *Citizen*
William Brown's real life.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $10.00 for 6 issues to
William Brown, P.O. Box 5216, Takoma Park, MD 20913-0216
(12 Pages/HL/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>A-Girl Etc.</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 March, 1994</DT>
For those of you who can never get enough of Elizabeth Watasin's
A-Girl, this issue features pin-ups, stories, and A-Girl fun by
the many friends and fans she has acquired since starting A-Girl.
Some of the contributors are Perry Lake, Gary Usher, John M.
Burt, and Aleksander Zograf. Very entertaining reading and
something to tide you over until the next issue of A-Girl.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Elizabeth Watasin, 120 S. San Fernando Drive, #231 Burbank, CA 91502
(0 Pages/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>A-Girl Misc!</B> Issue 1 </DT>
These are some comix which didn't fit in the regular Adventures
of A-Girl (available for $2). Included are an origin of A-Girl
story; A-Girl learns to think before she talks; A-Girl causes
trouble at a comic convention by asking why male superheroes
aren't drawn well-endowed and getting an artist to draw her a
naked Vampy Lady, although he doesn't seem to know how women
really look; A-Girl takes a look at Liliane's pussy; a
conversation with a naked woman.<P>
$1 Each to
Elizabeth Watasin, 120 So San Fernando Blvd #231, Burbank, CA 91502
(16 Pages/HL/LR)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>AIDSrap-AIDSscrap</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 August, 1994</DT>
In this mini, Yul Tulbert tackles AIDS. Not always an easy topic
of discussion, but as usual Yul manages to present a very good
mini that gives the facts and his point of view. As per Yul, he
manages to have a bit of humor while at the same time educating
the uneducated on condoms, sex, and HIV.<P>
30 cents Each to
Yul Tolbert, PO Box 02222, Detroit, MI 48202-9998
(8 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Abhorrent</B> Issue 1 Summer, 1994</DT>
Chris Erwin has written many small press comics over the past six
years and in this project he has teamed up with the relatively
new William E. Patten. Together they produce an extraordinary
and experimental one-shot. This comix is basically a short story
by Erwin with Patten supplying the illos, with the results being
both entertaining and shocking. Nicely paced with a beginning
that at first seems relatively normal, but from there it just
slowly descends into something akin to horror. Patten does a
great job of meshing the story and characters into his
illustrations.<P>
A prime example of just how creative and engaging small press
comix can be.<P>
$1.00 Each to
Chris Erwin, 493 Main Street #4, Beacon, NY 12508-3354
(16 Pages/HL/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Acme Novelty Library</B> Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>The first time I say Acme Library was the last issue
featuring Quimby the Mouse. That issue was a large production
with a style that mimicked the magazine designs of the 30's and
40's. This one is in a smaller format and has a design that gets
so close to what I've seen in vintage magazines that went through
it with a fine tooth comb to see if any of it was borrowed. No
it's all original. They are truly masters of typographic design.
<P>
The body of the book is almost completely devoted of words,
featuring their energetic little character that almost looks like
a potato with thin arms and legs. It's twisted stuff that's
really expanding the art of cartooning. <P>
$3.95 Each to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(40 Pages/J/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Action Girl Comics</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>And yet another new publication from Sarah Dyer's Action Girl
Enterprises. She's now editing this comic for Slave Labor (in
addition to everything else). <P>
Great contributions from Leanne Franson, Megan Kelso, Jessicda
Abel, Ms. Phink, and of course Sarah. <P>
She made a point of keeping it a clean all-ages book but that
doesn't restrict the quality and enjoyment of this work.<P>
$3 Each to
Sarah Dyer, Action Girl, P.O. Box 060380, Staten Island, NY 10306
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Adventure Strip Digest</B> Issue 5 September, 1994</DT>
Private investigator Rob Hanes is back again, courtesy of Randy
Reynaldo. "The Assassin" is another top-notch story and
introduces a new character to the Rob Hanes' universe with the
debut of Tiffany Lance, a beautiful journalist who gets caught in
some big time trouble. Clearly influenced by Milton Caniff,
Reynaldo's art has its own unique style that sets him quite a bit
ahead of most small press zines. Chances are high you will fall
for this guy's stuff in a big way. Lots of adventure and
non-stop action from start to finish.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Randy Reynaldo, WCG Comics, 3765 Motor Avenue, Suite 1121 Los Angeles, CA
90034
(32 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Adventures of A-Girl</B> Vol 1 Issue 3 May, 1994</DT>
Elizabeth is back again with A-Girl, who is still in Japan. This
autobiographical issue has A-Girl search for comic books made
just for girls. Nice background info on manga and even a homage
or two to famous Japanese artists. This book is always a riot to
read.<P>
1.00 Each to
Elizabeth Watasin, 120 S. San Fernando #231, Burbank, CA 91502
(20 Pages/HL/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Adventures of Olivia</B> Issue 4 Fall, 1994</DT>
Before I go any further, I have to state that this is for adults
only and an age statement is required. I say this up front, for
all the kids out there. Now for you adults, this is a decent
comix, if you are into teh type of publications put out by Brad
Foster. Now I don't usually like these types of zines, but I did
enjoy this one. What made this one even more enjoyable is the
back-story. Olivia was created by Robert Outlaw and started
working with Brad on this back around 1987 and created a lot of
notes, layouts, and sketches for the series. Unfortunately,
Robert died in August of 1992 due to complications of his long
fight with diabetes, but Brad continued the adventures of Olivia.
Doing Olivia is one way Brad keeps the memory of Robert Outlaw
alive, which isn't a bad thing after all. Art for this issue is
by Jack Cleveland, with Brad providing inks. The art is
beautiful, big, and detailed. The whole package ends up being a
great bargain. If you are into this kind of comix, this one you
should definitely try out.<P>
$6.00 Each to
Jabberwocky Graphix, PO Box 165246, Irving, TX 75016
(36 Pages/B/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Amoeba Adventures</B> Issue 15 September, 1994</DT>
Boy is Eric Hampton in trouble now! You see, all year Eric has
been fighting a hard race as the best digest comic producer
around, in my book. I thought Eric had done an incredible job
with the last issue of Kari and the Pirate. Last year, Nik's
Amoeba Adventures won an Editor's Choice Award from Small Press
Report as best digest, but this year it has been in stiff
competition with Eric. Leave it to Nik to put out another great
issue of AA, which serves to open up a whole new can of worms and
a nefarious villain from the past returns yet again. Superhero
action with lots of fun thrown in. Nik has probably developed
some of the best characters in all of small press and as an added
bonus, you are going to be treated to the art of Max Ink. Pick
up this issue and you will see why it is such an award winning
book.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Nik Dirga, Protoplasm Press, PO Box 2230, University, MS 38677-2230
(32 Pages/D/RON)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Angora Digest</B> Issue 1 Summer '94</DT>
<DD>Chicago must have some kind of an organized comic scene cuz
they keep on producing these cool comic collections. This new one
simply prints large full-sized pages from various artists. Lots
of unique and very bold stuff, certainly not your typical
comics.<P>
Carrol Jackson contributed a bizarre tale of forced enslavement
(or was it voluntary). We also get two pages from the unique
Chris Ware featuring his very human-like mouse character.<P>
$3.50 cash Each to
Julie Burleigh, 4241 N. Motzart, Chicago, IL 60618
(20 Pages/T/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Angst Comics</B> </DT>
<DD>This is a collection of six minis from Fawn representing much
of her word from '92 and '93. I've printed a bunch of her stuff
in *Factsheet Five* and all of it is top notch. My two favorates
are here, "So You Want to Be a Bohemian" and "Love and Lust in a
Small Town." <P>
I'm not sure of the address and you may want to include a little
extra for postage.<P>
75 cents ??? Each to
Fawn Gehweiler, 3871 Piedmont Box 321, Oakland, CA 94611
(0 Pages/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Anhedonia</B> </DT>
<DD>This is a collection of the first four issues of Matuszak's
comic zine *Anhedonia.*<P>
Steve's a pretty funny cartoonist, with strips on topics like the
fear of buying condoms when they're behind the counter and you
have to deal with some store clerk; "M.O. B.O." --robbers with a
deodorant fetish; and "Inspector Reefer's One-Minute Mystery." I
like the way he goes back and forth between totally fictional
stuff and personal material.<P>
$3.95 Each to
Steve Matuszak, 2507 Nicollet Ave #19, Minneapolis, MN 55404
(48 Pages/D/MLW)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Article Nineteen</B> Issue 9 </DT>
<DD>A fun comic that mixes autobiographical material with lots of
strangeness. <P>
There's a romantic piece about not being able to fall asleep and
a really cool piece about fictional monsters.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $ 9.00 for 5 issues to
Robin Bougie, Mind's Eye Comics, 928 Main St, Saskatoon, SK S7H 0K5 Canada
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Attack Cartoons</B> July '94</DT>
<DD>Another Batch of cartoons from John. Mostly political, some
bizare, and a few just plain silly. <P>
A new series for John, "Hollyweird" featuring comments about the
weirdness that is Hollywood, California.<P>
If you liked what you've seen so far then send off for the
rest.<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $24.00 for 12 issues to
John Bergstrom, Attack Cartoons, P.O. Box 1065, Hollywood, CA 90028
(11 Pages/S/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Baby Sue</B> Vol 4 Issue 4 Spring '1997</DT>
<DD>*Baby Sue* is one of the most tasteless zines out there. What
a joy it was to find that it's now published in a full-sized
format. <P>
30 full-sized page, that's enough to satisfy almost any craving.
This stuff is really out there, with the piece "Black Ladies at
Burger McThang" coming close to offending even *my*
sensibilities. I'm really digging the essays this time like the
"Parents Guide to Satanic Cult Ritual Abuse" which explains how
easy it is to abuse your children in the privicy of your own
home. Other highlight include the article on how using personal
ads to find you next serial murder victim, how 12 people would
spend their last hour on earth, and the wonderfully
autobiographical comics on his trip to Savannah and the fun with
a plastic toy gun. <P>
This one is highly recommended.<P>
$3 Each , Subs: $12.00 for 4 issues to
S. Fievet, P.O. Box 1111, Decatur, GA 30031-1111
(30 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Bella's Rhapsody</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>More like chapters in a graphic novel then a comic book. Each
page features several sketches on a page, some with text some
without. It all seems so victorian and elegant. The art is a bit
odd and stark for my tastes but I can see how this would be very
appealing. <P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 4.00 for 4 issues to
Rufus Wainwright, GS Lanning, St. Sauner Des Mont's, PQ 3OR 1R0 Canada
(12 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Betty Page</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>A big new, very campy comic staring everyone's favorate
striper, Ms. Betty Page. In this surreal hodgepodge fimilar
characters from pop culture invade the book to provoke and annoy
Betty. <P>
In this issue Betty totally punks out. She jams with the Ramones,
sings with Johnny Rotten, gets surreal with Dali, and is joined
by many other vamps.<P>
$4 Each to
Dirk Vermin, Fetish Press, P.O. Box 27801, Las Vegas, NV 89102
(24 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Beyond Help</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>From the outside this book seem rather unassiming but once
you open it up you're instantly drawn in. Mr. P. Morrissette
started out studing "real" art in school but was inspired to turn
to comix. Thankfully so, cuz he's got a real tallent for
illustration, inking, and structures. <P>
Two comic pieces and one bit of fiction. The first story is an
almost wordless comic the illustrates a surreal citizens revolt
through the power of the word "penis." The second piece about a
dying man, I am less excited about but his short story, about a
failing writer who works in a fast food joint, is really
compelling.<P>
$1 Each to
P. Morrissette, P.O. Box 1856, Seattle, WA 98111-1856
(22 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Big Brain Comics</B> Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>An interesting comic with an amusing and bold illustration
style.<P>
I Like the true story of trying to get Nobel Prize winning poet
Derik Walcott to write a blurb for Howard's comic.<P>
$2.50 Each , Subs: $12.00 for 6 issues to
Howard Salmon, P.O. Box 43451, Tucson, AZ 85733
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Big Mouth</B>: By Pat Moriarity Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>Unlike most other cartoonist, Pat Moriarity is a real artist.
Well, maybe not a *real* artist but he does have a real art
degree and works as an artist. Well, maybe not as an *artist* but
he works for Fantagraphics as an art director. Well, whatever he
does he does it well, illustrating other people's insane stories
in his hilarious book, *Big Mouth*. <P>
This is his first issue published by Fantagraphics, with the
first three produced by Starhead. You just gotta get 'em all,
especially the first one containing the secret origins of Pat
Moriarity (as told by Harvey Pekar). This latest one has a true
story (as least we heard it was true) about David Koresh as told
by Koresh's brother-in-law; Henry Rollins proposed a tale about
the joys of murder; Pat's interpertation of what will become of
Mike Diana; and the real story about legendary grunge poet Jesse
Bernstein.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(28 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Blunderbuss</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Stephanie has created a slew of unique comic one-shots but
this is her "regular" zine filled with all sorts of neat
stuff.<P>
I liked the page of cool new slang terms, the illustrations of
people in the punk scene, the short appreciation of punk rock
girls, and all her personal news and commetary.<P>
$1 + 2 stamps Each to
Stephanie Kulick, 857 Fell St, San Francisco, CA 94117
(17 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Board of Superheroes</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 July, 1994</DT>
Matt Feazell is back with his first new publication in quite
awhile and was it ever worth the wait. Features Cynicalman and a
cast of characters like Psycho Woman, Captain Videotape, and
Lizard Girl. Nicely done and very funny stuff, but then again
this is the norm when you are dealing with Matt. Matt is the
pioneer of stick pencil drawing and long ago established himself
the master of the mini format. Always funny and the best of the
best.<P>
Everyone should have Feazell in their collection, because it
doesn't get any better than Matt.<P>
50 cents Each to
Matt Feazell, 3867 Bristow, Detroit, MI 48212
(8 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Bob de Gerbil</B>: by Garth Hansen </DT>
<DD>Totally absurd sketches of different scenarios invoving Bob
de Gerbil. He don't look too much like a gerbil thought. He looks
more like some perverse creature found in a Bob K. cartoon.
Weird, wacky, and wonderful.<P>
$1.50 Each to
xib Publications, PO Box 262112, San Diego, CA 92126
(20 Pages/M/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Bocefus Presents</B> Issue 1 Summer, 1994</DT>
Leading off the issue is a group of six individuals who make up
the superhero group called The Front. Nice characterization and
a bit of humor here. I found it to be very enjoyable. The art
and story are both done by Jerzy Drozd, and Jerzy's art looks
very good. I was impressed by what I saw and would like to see
more of it in the future. As if this wasn't enough, there are
other features added to make the whole package even more
enjoyable. Ryan Dillman covers small press and does a good job
of it. Interviews with David Mack and Aaron Warner come off very
good.<P>
$2.90 Each to
Bocefus, PO Box 221, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858
(44 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Boobytit</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>This stuff is great. Kevin draws semi-autobiographical comics
in a style that's incredibly gross and intcredibly fun. <P>
His stories are filled with scenes of masturbation, drinking, and
internal angst. The first story is about the difficulties having
a good time at a club show. The second one is about avoiding
responsibilities on your day off. <P>
I like how he draws himself coarse and dripping ooze while his
girlfriend gets a smooth shine.<P>
$1.50 Each to
Kevin Scalzo, 4919 Madison Ave, Lincoln, NE 68504
(24 Pages/HL/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Boom Boom</B>: Zen and the Art of David Lasky Issue 2
September '94</DT>
<DD>Please don't accuse David Lasky of selling out just cuz he's
got a fancy book with a color cover from a genuine comic
publishing company. This is pure David --highly structured
stories that are a perfect example of graphic literature.<P>
He gets back to his original passion for James Joyce here and
presents a very unusual biography. David's illustrations are
quite powerful and more dense then his lighter, more personal
work. The centerfold is a sort of guide map to Joyce's *Ulysses*,
featuring the symbolism and location to each event. While I found
it fascinating, it was a bit too internal to the book. <P>
$3.25 Each to
AEON, 5014-D Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
(32 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Box Office Poison</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>I just saw the movie *Clerks* and I really loved it. I guess
I just have a passion for stories about life on the other side of
the counter. I've read a bunch of comics about the experiece
working in a comic shop (no surprise there) but this is the first
one I've seen about working in a book store. <P>
Alex has a great style. He's able to capture the personality of
the customer with a simple caracture sketch. Adding to that
stories mixing fact and fiction and you've got a really fun book.
Recommended to all disgusted book store employees.<P>
$1.50 Each to
Alex Robinson, 271 6th Ave Apt 2, Brooklyn, NY 11215
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Boy Trouble</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>It's great to see this new book from Robert especially after
finding out that he was no longer doing *Strange Looking Exile*.
This new series is very much like *SLE* except that it completely
devoted to "gay boyz" and he's publishing it all on his own.<P>
Contributors include Nick Leonard, Michael Fahy, Jeffery Kennedy,
Christian Schroeder, and Sina, but my favorate stuff is always
Robert's.<P>
$2 cash Each to
Robert Kirby, P.O. Box 300061, Minneapolis, MN 55403
(24 Pages/HL/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Boys, Bras and Other Girl Talk</B> Issue 1 Fall, 1994</DT>
Paul Quinn is back again with a colleciton of stories starring
Samantha Saphire of Crew of the Wanderlust fame. Hot on the
heels of the last Crew of the Wanderlust, this issue features
non-heroic action, but lots of great characterization. A very
fine zine, which proves that the very talented Paul Quinn still
has a few tricks up his sleeve. Paul's art is stunning and is
known for his big-busted women. This issue we learn why they are
big-busted, which actually is a side point to the main story.
This is really great stuff and possibly the best work Paul has
done up to this time.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Paul Quinn, 459 5th Concession Rd E, Waterdown Ontario, L0R 2H2 Canada
(20 Pages/HL/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Buck Shot</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 Spring, 1994</DT>
Rick Bradford collects the rather funny cartoons of Buck Dawson,
who has appeared in various publications across the country.
Hilarious one-panel gag cartoons that are sure to make you laugh.
Watch Back as he gives vital answers to such age old questions as
"What if the same company that made Rice Crispies made cat
litter?" and "What would happen if someone sneezed with their
eyes open?"<P>
This is cool and hilarious reading folks.<P>
50 cents Each to
Rick Bradford, PO Box 161095, Fort Worth, TX 76161-1095
(8 Pages/M/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Buzzard</B> Issue 12 </DT>
<DD>The flagship anthology from Cat-Head Comics feturing the
likes of J.R. Williams, Doug Allen, R.L. Crabb, Lloyd Dangle, Jim
Blanchard, and of course the maestro, Steve Lafler. <P>
This one seems highly political. Not quite as political as *World
War III Illustrated*, but full of sophisticated comics that
address a variety of important timely topics. I really ejoyed
Steve's piece where he exposes the hypocracies of the war on
crime (or drugs or whatever the fuck "we're" fighting these
days). I love all the great J.R. and Dangle pages and the rare
treat of three pages from Alexandar Zograf, creator of *Life
Under Sanctions*. <P>
$3.75 Each to
Steve Lafler, Cat-Head Comics, P.O. Box 576, Hudson, MA 01749
(36 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Cassiopeia the Witch</B> </DT>
This comic about a lesbian witch is drawn by a man, but it's
still pretty good. Cassiopeia meets and sleeps with a woman who
turns out to be married to a fundamentalist preacher, whom she
wants to leave. Cassiopeia's coven works their magic against the
preacher. In the other story in this issue, Cassiopeia has a
close encounter with Sasquatch.<P>
$1.25 Each to
Perry Lake, 6167-B Alamo Wy, Paradise, CA 95969-4202
(20 Pages/D/LR)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Changing Comics</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>Eugene is constantly changing the name of his comics.
Previous titles include *Anonymous Comick* and *Hieronymous
Vomits*. The art is minimal and chaotic but the stories are
really engaging.<P>
I like the bit about what museum security guards are really
thinking about.<P>
$1 Each to
Eugene White, 1514 Holly Hill Dr., Champaign, IL 61821
(12 Pages/HL/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Comic Effect</B> Issue 7 Autumn, 1994</DT>
Coming out every quarter, Jim Kingman has produced an incredible
zine that puts the fun back into comics and takes one back to a
better time in comics, when comics were more enjoyable. This
zine contains reviews of older material, with the emphasis on the
fun one can get from reading comics. Not all of the reviews are
of older stuff, but the bulk of the reviews are. The diversity
goes all the way back to the Golden Age and covers all genres
equally. Another nice thing about this book is the reviews are
so generous. Jim encourages a reviewer to write in their own
style without the fear of getting cut due to space. The cover,
done by Wayne Cash, features Marvel's Watcher playing teacher to
a host of superhero characters. A classic cover with characters
doing things you'd expect them to do in school (and not expect,
in some cases) listening to a boring lecture. This zine is a
labor of love and deserves any support it can get.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Jim Kingman, Paloma St Publications, PO Box 2188, Pasadena, CA 91102-2188
(52 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Comics on Parade</B> Issue 1 August, 1994</DT>
So what's it like returning to small press after being away for a
year? Hopefully, as in Brian Dettmann, you come back rejuvenated
with a new outlook on things. This comix is composed of short
strips which are done to provoke the reader into taking an active
role in Brian's stories. These aren't strips one can mindlessly
read and just forget, but dare you to sit up and actually think
for yourself about the things Brian cares about. Brian is tired
of the old way of doing things and sets out to create a different
kind of comix, one which he enjoys, not caring what anyone else
thinks. Brian's stuff was top-notch before, and has come back
even better. Do us all a favor and don't leave again, okay
Brian?<P>
$2.00 Each to
Brian Dettmann, Blue Fish Studios, 293A Ridge Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801
(22 Pages/D/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Cranium Frenzy</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 Spring, 1994</DT>
This is a Morty the Dog story in which he ends up being president
of the United States, mostly through luck and an odd set of
circumstances. I am a big fan of Steve's work. He is witty and
outlandish, while his art has a manic feel to it.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Steve Willis, PO Box 390, McCleary, WA 98557-0390
(20 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Crew of the Wanderlust</B> Vol 1 Issue 7 July, 1994</DT>
This is an ongoing saga about a superhero family consisting of
Jessica, the Phantom Knight, their daughter Samantha, and some
supporting players thrown in for good measure. If you have never
read an issue, then this is the perfect time for jumping on. A
major cast member ends up dead by the end of the story after
battling a villian called Decade. Paul does an excellent job of
making the battle and resulting death different. This is not
your ordinary slugfest, but rather a subdued back story to the
main action.<P>
Well done book and highly recommended.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Paul Quinn, 459 Fifth Concession Rd E, Waterdown, ON LOR 2H2 Canada
(20 Pages/HL/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Crossbred & Underfed</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>The new compilation from the Puppy Toss crew focuses on the
dark and gothic, completely organized by Ben Catmull.<P>
Three pieces in this nicely-printed second issue. Sean George
wrote about hitch hikers getting picked up...by UFOs; Ben Catmull
put togther a wierd fantasy piece; and K. Capelli did a nice
short two-pager about nighttime childhood fears.<P>
$1 Each to
Puppy Toss, P.O. Box 9849, Berkeley, CA 94709
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Cute Girl</B> Issue 1 June, 1994</DT>
This is a rare collaboration of Matt Feazell with his girlfriend
Karen Majewski that looks at the world of polka music and Karen's
childhood memories. The first story is about Cutegirl going to
visit her grandmother. The actual writing was done in an unusual
way, with Matt taking her out to the local coffee house with all
her grad homework, sitting down with a cup of cappuccino and Matt
drawing the first few panels. Matt would then ask her what
happened next, draw it, and then repeat the process. The result
is a very warm story about Cutegirl's love for polka music. The
second story "Pamiathi Polki" (Polish for "polka girl") is even
better than the first. Done in the Feazell style this comix
stands out, because it is not the usual humorous stuff we are all
used to Matt doing. This is even better.<P>
50 cents Each to
Matt Feazell, Not Available Comics, 3867 Bristow, Detroit, MI 48212
(8 Pages/M/RON)
no ads. email cynic...@aol.com <P>
<DT> <B>Dangle</B>: By Lloyd Dangle Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>Bike-riding cartoonist Lloyd Dangle of "Troubletown" fame
milks his personal life for laughs in this endearing comic
series.<P>
Issue three finds him in the doghouse with his girlfriend because
of an ... indiscretion with her best friend. It's a dark and
moody piece, during the course of which his girlfriend births his
sister thorough the top of her head while playing "Fur Elise" on
the piano (don't ask).He and his grilfriend also play host to a
couple who have been brain-damaged by the arrival of their new
baby. Best of all is Dangle's defense of The Pen --as cynical as
he may come across, he obviously loves creating comics.<P>
$2.95 Each , Subs: $ 8.95 for 4 issues to
Drawn & Quarterly, 5550 Jeanne Mance St., #16, Montreal, QU H2V 4K6 CANADA
(28 Pages/C/MLW)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Deep Flooding</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>The newist book by Peter features a strange Devil-like
character that seems to reflect the dark side of Peter's
anger.<P>
I like how the character bursts out of Peter's (?) stomach and
jumps into the TV set to kill Ronald Reagan.<P>
$2.50 Each , Subs: $ 8.00 for 4 issues to
Pete Coyle, P.O. Box 1464, Southeastern, PA 19399-1464
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Deep Flooding</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>This collection of stories from Peter convey a range of
emotions from insanely angry to quiet joy. I really like his
style, ballacing solid blacks with brigh whites and a fullness to
the shading.<P>
He told a story about a decorative candle that was left to die
under a cake of dust instead of buring brightly like is should.
Then there's the stories of Toy Cop and Cute Baby. <P>
You may have seen Peter's work in books from Fantagraphics or
Adhesive Media.<P>
$3 Each , Subs: $ 8.00 for 4 issues to
Pete Coyle, 135 Levering St, hiladelphia, PA 19127
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Deep Girl</B> Issue 4 July '94</DT>
<DD>Ariel is getting a lot of attention recently and for good
reason. She combines wonderfully honest stories with an ejoyable
artistic style. Her drawing is strong, expressive, scary, and
goofy, all at once. Her stories are about her own experiences and
they don't shy away from dealing with the ugly bits (in fact they
kinda focus on them). <P>
I'm not a woman but I've been with them enough to know that Ariel
really hit home for many with her personal story of comparing her
body to others. The grotesque nature of her illustrations were
the perfect compliment to this tale about body image. There's
also a lighter piece about womens' relationships with other
women.<P>
It's real, personal, smart, and very funny. <P>
$2 Each to
Ariel Bordeax, 573 Scott St. Apt. L, San Francisco, CA 94117
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Detroit Murder City Comix</B> Issue 4 June '94</DT>
<DD>I've read a few different comics about Detroit and none of
them ever paint a rosy picture. It's usually allong the lines of
"Detroit is a fuckin' hell hole, don't go there." Kent's comic,
published by Slave Labor, is a hilarious look at America's least
popular city.<P>
There's an incredibly story about how a very weird pedestrian
trafic accident gets even weirder when the driver comes back for
revenge. We also get the second part of "Hot Java & Cold
Junk."<P>
$2.95 Each to
Kent Myers, Detroit Murder City Comix, 1684 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA
94117
(28 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Displacements</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 June, 1994</DT>
Something is causing the multiverse to break down and everything
must be put back together before the whole thing falls apart.
From various Earths come four individuals who are thrust together
as heroes, who must find a way to fix everything. Written by
Steve Keeter and drawn by Scott McClung, who mix spuperhero with
sci-fi to produce a decent introduction to this series. Good job
of fleshing out the characters and opening things up to a whole
lot of possiblities.<P>
$1.00 Each to
Scott McClung, 537 S. University #6, Norman, OK 73069
(24 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Diva</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>A great collection of women cartoonists that avoids the
trappings of accademic feminism and just has a lot of fun.<P>
Contributors include Donna Barr, Diana Sasse, Eileen Elizabeth,
Mary Fitzgerald Smith, and Roberta Gregory. The main feature is
Diana Sasse's "Kraut comic" and the introduction by Donna Barr
that explains their fascination with German military characters.
I also like the stuff from Roberta Gregory. She mostly
contributed some obscure reprints but I've never seen these
stories before and thery're really quite good.<P>
$4.95 Each to
Starhead Comix, P.O. Box 30044, Seattle, WA 98103
(64 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Dixie</B>: by Lisa Brosig Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>I don't care for the typical sex comix but this new one is so
full of silly humor that it's quite fun. The art is highly
stylized and a bit raw but it convey's the sexual playfulness of
the story. <P>
Stories about everything she Dickse Do Mae likes to put in her
mouth, be it dicks, hot dogs, or booze. <P>
In some ways this is straight male fantasy stuff but in other
ways it shows sex-positive female empowerment. <P>
$4 Each to
Shane Bugbee, Michael Hunt Publications, PO Box 226, Bensenville, IL 60106
(32 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Don't Shoot It's Only Comics</B> Issue 10 May '94</DT>
<DD>This is a huge (and well-edited) collection of comics from a
wide variety of contributors. Nicely packaged with a good flow
and consistancy. <P>
Highlights include Paul Schroeder's "Minimalist British Humor,"
Andy Hartzell's "Doomsday Hijinx," Bobby Madness' "Tom Teenager,"
and Gavin McInnes's insightful humor. Lookin' foward to the next
one, the all non-fiction issue.<P>
Jef has a good eye for picking stuff and I can really see him
taking it places. <P>
$5 Each to
Jef Taylor, 140A Harvard Ave. #308, Allston, MA 02134
(76 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Dork</B>: by Evan Dorkin Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>This is a really nice collection of reprints and outtakes by
Even (*Milk & Cheese*) Dorkin. <P>
Only one Fisher-Price Theatre story but there's plenty of other
stuff including reprints of the comic concert reviews he created
with Kyle Baker, the "baby in the microwave" urban myth, a long
Murder Family story, and some Milk & Cheese strips.<P>
Definetely some of his more out-there work.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Slave Labor Graphics, 979 S. Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Double Cross!</B> Issue 5 July '94</DT>
<DD>Tony's spent the last eight years behind the counter at a
deli. That explains a lot. His art is a bit flat but full of rich
detail. I don't know if these real-life stories are
autobiographical, but they're full of oddball characters that
really bring them to life. <P>
We now get the second part of Johnny and his brother Tony
delivering bread for Kate who they both want to ask out. Tony
gets a date with her and things work out pretty good.<P>
Fun stuff.<P>
$1.50 Each to
Tony Consiglio, 60-13 68th Rd., Ridgewood, NY 11385
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Drastic Lives</B> Issue 1 August '94</DT>
<DD>Short but very intense comix in that hyper-art style. Lots of
drama, big splashy pages, full of angst and creativity.<P>
Timothy created a short piece with lots of gray textures about
six paulbearers. Janet Real's story is longer but every couple of
pages seems like a new chapter. Dark and wet with lots of black
ink.<P>
$4 cash Each , Subs: $20.00 for 6 issues to
Timothy Buie, Black Lobster Studios, 3721 Baugh Street, Raleigh, NC 27604
(30 Pages/S/RSF)
takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Drawn and Quarterly</B>: A Picture Story Book Vol 2 Issue 1
</DT>
<DD>*Drawn and Quarterly* is another one of those comics that
I've been reading since back before I was doing *F5.* It was
through these pages that I got my first taste of Joe Matt, Julie
Ducet, and Michael Dougan. <P>
They put the publication on haitus for a few years but it's now
back with us in this first issue of the second volume. It's
production is somewhat different, lots of color on slick paper
with thick fancy covers. The price is a bit higher though --that
might disuade the casual comic buyer. My favorate piece is Carrol
Ann Tyler's 13-page story of her youger sister who died at age
two, before Carol Ann was even born. Also appearing is Jacques
Tardi, Maurice Vellekoop, Marcellus Hall, and Phillie
Petit-Roulet.<P>
$5.95 Each , Subs: $17.95 for 4 issues to
Drawn and Quarterly Publications, 5550 Jeanne Mance St., #16, Montreal, PQ
H2V 4K6 Canada
(45 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Duplex Planet Illustrated</B>: by David Geenberger Issue 9
July '94</DT>
<DD>Now the strange storys told by the residents of various
nursing homes are transformed through the magic of David
Geenberger's tape recorder into hilarious comics illustrated by a
mutitude of talented artists.<P>
Wayno interpereted two of Ken Eglin's record reviews that
originally ran in *OP* back in the nascent zine days; Dame Darcy
illustrated people's thoughts about clouds; Pat Moriarity brought
out the humor in a tragic tale of death; and Oscar *(Wu Wei)*
Stern contributed two pages.<P>
$3.50 Each , Subs: $10.00 for 4 issues to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Dusk</B> Issue 1 March '94</DT>
<DD>Three people worked on this --writer Rob Hauschild, artist
Felix Lopez, and editor Todd Brugmans. <P>
It's a wild west story, filled with lots of violence. Certainly
grotesque at times. There's a big fight at the saloon that leads
to a chase down the street. <P>
$3 Each , Subs: $ 9.00 for 3 issues to
Deadwood Press, P.O. Box 319, Roselle, NJ 07203
(24 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/takes ads. email rhaus...@turbo.keanedu
<P>
<DT> <B>Elliot the Gigantalope</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Dr. Anderson has created a really funny collection of
semi-true stories all staring Eliot that's a cross between a
human and a bull. Most of the stories involve working as a
mortuary assistant, retrieving dead bodies and such. I'm sure
somebody actually had that job --the comic's creator perhaps?
<P>
Nevertheless, it provides very humorous scenarios, all while
matched by simple but humorous illustrations. Some of these
stories are bizarre while others are absolutely twisted. <P>
You can also send them $5 for their North American Man *Beer*
Love Association patch.<P>
$2 Each to
P.O. Box 987, Campbell, CA 95009
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>End of the Line</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Jefferson Powers has created a sophisticated collection of
homegrown comics. He's specifically avoiding the fantasy and
superhero genres and instead collected work that is dark, stark,
and very unique.<P>
Stories about urban violence, the tranquility of darkness, the
problem of talking bricks, and a piece of short fiction from
Stephan Donohue.<P>
$1.50 Each , Subs: $ 6.00 for 4 issues to
Jeffeson Powers, Razor's Edge Graphics, 410 East Colfax, Denver, CO 80203
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Exquisite Corpse/Bruisey</B> Issue 1 June '94</DT>
Illustration exquisite corpses are made by folding a piece of
paper into four sections having four different cartoonists create
a different section of the illustraion without seeing the work of
the other three. The end result is usually some weird
alien-looking creature. This collection dates back to work done
in 1992 with some semi-famous contributors. Among those listed
includes Jim Woodring, Bill Griffith, Paul Mavridies, and lots of
local heros. I have a hard time identifing who worked on what
section but I'm really impressed by the overall quality of this
selection. *Bruisey*, available separately is a short comic story
of a woman who unfortunately bruses easily and is involved with
an abusive man. Powerful stuff.<P>
$1 + 2 stamps Each to
Stephanie Kulick, 857 Fell St, San Francisco, CA 94117
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Fever Dream</B> </DT>
<DD>At first glanse I was put off by this work because of its raw
amature style. After looking at it closer I was drawn into its
mood and character.<P>
Yvonne and several other contribute comix of varying styles.
Siobhann wrote a story of some Canadian slackers; Lorien
contributed a fine tale of romantic encounter; and Chaney McEll
produces a dreamy wordless comic.<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 8.00 for 4 issues to
Yvonne McLoughlin, 488 Dovercourt Rd, 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON M6H 2W4
Canada
(30 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Flaubert's Introduction to Art</B> </DT>
Betty Bishop's computer-generated comic has a Brecht-quoting
sheep and a peacock with all the answers about aesthetics
introducing a frog Flaubert into the world of art.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Betty Bishop, Malthus Press, 2317 B. Carleton, Berkeley, CA 94704
(44 Pages/M/MLW)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Frankie's Man</B>: by Gabrielle Gamboa </DT>
<DD>A tiny litte minicomic illustrating Johnny Cash's version of
"Frankie and Johnnie." Each page features words from the song
with the opposing page illustrating that idea. Very elegant with
some enjoyable illustrations bringing out the emotion in the
song.<P>
35 cents Each to
Puppy Toss, P.O. Box 9849, Berkeley, CA 94709
(40 Pages/M/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>From Hell to Breakfast</B>: A Collection of Work from Blair
Wilson Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>We've seen Blair Wilson's highly-stylized work poping up in
zines throught the early '90s. This is a selection of better
works that have appeared throughout that time. <P>
Swirling mutating bodies with big tounges and large eyes as only
Blair can create them.<P>
$1 Each to
Blair Wilson, P.O. Box 45654, Seattle, WA 98145-0654
(12 Pages/M/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Fukt</B> Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>Totally punk minicomics. How can you tell they'er punk? No
it's not because there's a bad word in the title (sorta) but the
way the artist interprets the world in his own twisted way.<P>
In this ongoing story we find kid that's so obsessed with a girl
that he makes a zine about her. <P>
I like how the xeroxing still shows the sprirals from the
notebook that the pages were drawn in.<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 2.50 for 3 issues to
Ian James, Post Box 4257, Station 'E' Ottawa, ON K1S 5B3 Canada
(20 Pages/M/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Full Cup</B> Issue 8 </DT>
<DD>Comix about everyone's favorate subject --no, not sex,
coffee. <P>
This is a collection of stories about Fred and his absolute
obsession with that brown caffinated beverage. Such a strong
obsession that it might be considered unhealthy except that Fred
is a cartoon character and these short comics are quite ejoyable.
I know you know what it's like to be jonsing for a legal
addiction like extra-strong coffee so why don't you send Neil a
coupla bux so he can buy some more coffee and keep cranking out
more comix.<P>
Have another full cuppa joe while you're at it. Offset printed
too.<P>
$2 Each to
Neil Schmidt, 1505 N. Franklin Place #110, Milwaukee, WI 53202
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Funkapotamus</B> Issue 7 </DT>
<DD>Jerome's comics are kinda simple but fun fun in a punky sorta
way. Simple lines, heavy inks, but with a good structure.<P>
Silly stories about aliens, true life stories about boredom, the
fustrations of growing up in Missourri, and his great comic about
"My 1st and worst punk-rock show (1986)" that I've seen in
another zine.<P>
Jerome just moved to Denver but he says his parents will foward
his mail for him.<P>
$1 ??? Each to
Jerome Gaynor, 4966 Deepwood Ct, St Louis, MO 63128
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Futuro Tierra</B> Vol 1 Issue 20 Spring, 1994</DT>
Once again we have another chapter of one of small press' best
science fiction comics. After being separated by a storm last
issue, Steve and company go their various ways thinking the other
party is dead. I have been following this series for two years
and watch as each issue surpasses the last. The use of computer
lettering vastly improves the qulaity and reability of the
zine.<P>
Tony as an artist and writer is among the best in small press.<P>
50 cents Each , Subs: $ 3.00 to
Tony Lorenz, 8608 Friendship Ct., Tampa, FL 33634
(12 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Gem</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 Spring, 1994</DT>
A sci-fi story with a manga feel to it. The plot involves the
king and queen of a faroff planet who are overthrown by the bad
guys. The queen, Gem, manages to escape and winds up stranded on
earth with the evil dudes in hot pursuit. Even comes with Gem's
own "language" in which you decipher in order to learn what she
is saying. Great idea, with a few bugs in it. Still, this is a
fun title which I hope to follow for many issues to come.<P>
50 cents Each to
Steve Shipley, 1824 Glen Valley, Toledo, OH 43614
(0 Pages/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Gina & Jake</B> </DT>
<DD>A comic thats sorta about doin' a autobiographical comic.
It's drawn in this unique style with everything created using
hollow lines, even the lettering. It gives the entire story a
ghost-like appearance but the relationship story brings it all
into perspective. <P>
Some other stuff too, with added splashes of color, making for a
fine package.<P>
$2 ??? Each to
Wayne Brenner, Cafe Armageddon, P.O. Box 33279, Austin, TX 78704
(28 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Gina and Jake</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 Summer, 1994</DT>
Liam Brooks, co-founder of the Small Press League, is back
publishing after an extending leave. Contributors include
Brooks, Rick Howe, and William Dockery, who together produce a
rather interesting set of stories for this anthology. This issue
also comes with a full-color mini-comic, which makes this
publication an especially good buy.<P>
$2.00 Each to
William Dockery, PO Box 3663, Phenix City, AL 36868
(32 Pages/N/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Girlhero</B> Issue 3 </DT>
The cover of this comic features a diorama of a drawing of a
woman that's been riveted to a wooden cross and photographed so
it has shadows and looks 3-d. I thought the highlight of the
issue was a really cool story about two temp workers, one from
the past, one from the present, who switch time periods. The
woman who's travelled to the future can't figure out the copier,
while the woman who's travelled to the past can't take shorthand.
Both of them have lecherous bosses. This issue also includes
another episode of the story of Bottlecap and her riveter friends
who are organizing against the Boehaeuser corporation. The
battered wife of the corporation's president is hiding Animata,
after a bomb blast that blew up the rebels' hideout. <P>
$3 Each to
Megan Kelso, High Drive Publication, 4505 University Way #536, Seattle, WA
98105
(28 Pages/S/LR)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Girltrap</B> Issue 5 </DT>
<DD>Betty's got a really unique style. Using few words and
unusual panel layouts. <P>
Stories about shopping for magazines, going to parties, and
hanging out at home. She says that women tend to understand her
work better then men, so maybe that's true.<P>
I liked it but it was a bit short. <P>
$1 Each to
Betty Godsmear, 1164 Brace #3, San Jose, CA 95125
(0 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Goatee Comics</B> Issue 1 July '94</DT>
<DD>On to a new series for Tyim, continuing the stories started
in *Experiencing Techincal Difficulties* and several other series
he's been working on for a few years. When you look at his stuff
you do notice all the time and energy he devoted to each page.
The work is very detailed with weird surreal stories.<P>
Amusing stuff about people stuck in TV sets, cops stoping
speeders, and demons in churches.<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 6.00 to
Tyim Courts, 5545 Montgomery Rd Apt 1, Cincinnati, OH 45212
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Good Clean Fun</B>: The Elvis of Comic Strips Issue 8 Summer
'94</DT>
<DD>Gene is still compiling his strips with others to put out his
zine. His own style is like a hipster's version of early Bloom
County.<P>
We get the results of the readers' poll, unfortunatly only seven
people responded. Four pages of strips featuring more joking
around the cafe table.<P>
$1 Each to
Gene Mahoney, P.O. Box 843, Redwood City, CA 94064
(10 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Gumbo</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>This book is entirely devoted to Mark's, who does some very
interesting stugg with Jenny Zervakis.<P>
He start off with some very harsh words about the zine community.
I don't agree with his opinion but don't completely disagree
either. Then we get a cool comic about workin' in some divey
resturant (with more words than images), weird people to stay
away from, and a piece about paranoia.<P>
$1 Each to
Mark Cunningham, 909 Lancaster St., Durham, NC 27701
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Hands Off</B> </DT>
<DD>A comic produced to benefit Washington Citizens for Farness,
to help fight anti-gay initiatives proposed by right-wing groups.
The book aims to raise people's consciousness about homophobia
and discrimination. <P>
Most of the pieces were created specificly for this project so
they distinctly address gay and lesbian issues ad well as
presenting some info about the Washington anti-gay initiatives.
They're all here Roberta Gregory, Shannon Wheeler, Michael
Dougan, Tom Tomorrow, JR Williams, and Peter Bagge. It comes
complete with an excellent cover from Peter Kuper.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Ward Sutton, Hands Off, 501 N. 36th St Suite 350, Seattle, WA 98103
(40 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Helter Skelter</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>This unusual book from New Zealand mixes crudly-drawn comix
with unusual collages. <P>
The first one had more comic-type stuff with the second one
devoted more to politically-orientiented collages. Interesting
stuff, it sorta reminds me of work comming out of San
Francisco.<P>
It's quite appealing, in a gritty sort of way. They also sell
zines and comix at their shop in New Zealand.<P>
$2/$3 Each to
Generation X, P.O. Box 13-585, Christchurch, New Zealand
(32 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Hemp for Victory</B>: by Art Penn Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>In this desperate age people are struggling to convince the
government of the many industrial uses for hemp. Maybe we should
just get them to watch their own propoganda films. *Hemp for
Victory* is an incredible WWII govenment film extolling the many
uses for hemp complete with instructions for cultivation. <P>
Art Penn adapted the film to this wonderful comic book that
captures the intensity of the wartime era documentary and details
its cultivation tips. While any serious grower may look elsewhere
for advice this comic is a hilarious look at how hypocritical our
government is, prohibiting the cultivation of a crop they
themselves consider to be vital. There's also an informative
postscript to the book but it avoids discussion who was behind
the hemp prohibition movement. Namley Dupont. Once they
recognized how hemp could drasticly cut into thier chemical
industry profits, they mobilized the forces to put an end to
domestic hemp cultivation.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Starhead Comix, P.O. Box 30044, Seattle, WA 98103
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Hey Luv!</B> </DT>
In this comic book, Hey Luv takes on street harassers with the
help of her steel-toed Doc loafers. Plus the Babe with no name,
who walks into bars like Clint Eastwood and cooly shoots men's
heads off. If you like Hothead Paisan or Bitchy Bitch, you'll
like this.<P>
2/75p Each to
c/o D. Cugley, 255b Banbury Rd, Oxford, OX2 7HN UK
(28 Pages/D/LR)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Ho!</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>There's some strange stuff in this issue of Ho!, a rampant
comix zine: a bizarre minicomic stapled inside; Hieronymous Bosch
meets Gumby; sugar junkies in love; two pages of bogus 900-number
ads which are gross but really funny ("Hot Horny Earwax! Take The
Q-Tip Dip"); plus a few written pieces.<P>
$2.50 Each to
No(Know) Information Netwerk, PO Box 291516, Hollywood, CA 90029
(24 Pages/HL/MIR)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Hoi-Polloi Station</B> Fall, 1994</DT>
This creative collection contains an intriguing lead story,
"Kerry's Starship" by Stephen J. Warneck, that is definitely not
your run-of-the-mill sci-fi tale. It was very enjoyable and
detailed, yet left enough unsaid as to stimulate the reader's
imagination. Not too many stories do that nowadays. Steve
Willis' "State of Beings--Illinois" is classic Willis. Although
lengthy, I really enjoyed Chad Woody's "The Summer Queen." I'll
be waiting patiently to see the next issue.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Hoi-Polloi Station, Rt. 1 Box 172-B1, Willard, MO 65781
(32 Pages/D/TAF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Holy Knight</B> Vol 1 Issue 2 Summer, 1994</DT>
The story involves a magical knight from medieval times who
manages to get himself into modern times and gets mixed up in the
occult and supernatural. Brought to you by Bob Dixon and Scott
Shriver, with an impressive gold metallic cover. Scott Shriver
is known for Psycho Duck, but this is Scott like you have never
seen him before. He totally blew me away with his art.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Bob Dixon, Pocket Change Comics, 9680 Lake Seminole Drive E., Seminole, FL
34643
(24 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Horse</B>: by Dylan Williams Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>This series is devoted exclusively to Dylan's work. He
creates dark illustrations with a unique visual perspective.<P>
The third one is devoted to the ongoing dreamy story of these
bandage guys who go around creating lots of violence and meyhem.
A unique creation in the minicomic format. <P>
$2 + 1 stamp Each to
Puppy Toss, P.O. Box 9849, Berkeley, CA 94709
(64 Pages/M/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Hothead Paisan</B>: Homicidal Lesbian Terrorist Issue 15
</DT>
<DD>Over the last several issues Hothead's been getting further
and further "out there" in the ozone with interesting results!
It's the continuing saga of Hothead Paisan, psychotic lesbian
terrorist, and her cat, Chicken. <P>
This is almost an experimental work with Hothead getting inside
herself and exploring her black hole. Don't worry there's a great
tense fight scene at the end.<P>
Recommended for everyone! Be sure to request their catalog of
really cool stuff!<P>
$4 Each , Subs: $14.00 for 4 issues to
Giant Ass Publishing, P.O. Box 214, New Haven, CT 06502
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>How to Get Away With</B>: Killing Your Parents </DT>
<DD>Most people struggle through self-published comics with the
hopes of getting a real job with a real comic book publishing
company. Well, Steve did it the other way around. He was a big
name in mainstream comics but dumped that rat race to take things
at a slower pace. Now he just publishes a few of his own books on
the side.<P>
He's completed six books so far --each with a different title
but featuring many of the same characters. This one has got such
a great title but the stories inside have very little to do with
it. The art is of course great, with a style that sorta reminds
me of illustrations from the '60s. Simple line drawing, filled in
with lots of ink, but full of wacky humor. <P>
$2 Each , Subs: $ 9.00 for 6 issues to
Steve Skeates, P.O. Box 121, Alfred Station, NY 14803
(14 Pages/S/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Hysteria Action Forum</B> Issue 5 </DT>
<DD>This one's got it all --comics by Gabby, jams with Dylan,
and some review and other writing too.<P>
Gabby starts off with some choice excerpts from Johny Cash's
autobio about how he used to scam speed from doctors. I love the
little insert comic-within-the-comic with a story of loving a
crazy man who's in jail, a twenty-three-year-old with a sexual
identiy crisis, and riot grrrl romance.<P>
$1 Each to
Gabby Gamboa, Puppy Toss, P.O. Box 9849, Berkeley, CA 94709
(28 Pages/HL/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>I</B> Issue 7 </DT>
<DD>I just love Canaidian autobiograhical comics. I don't know
why, maybe it's the Canadian psyche? Something about a
straightfoward way of communicating that translates well to
comics. Ian writes about life in Vancouver and all his
travels.<P>
We get another installment of Bad Sex Funnies but the real
highlight is the story of trying to get across the boarder to get
to the San Jose comic convention and getting stopped for carrying
"valuable" xeroxed minicomics.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $10.00 for 6 issues to
Ian Boothby, #203-125 W. 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC VSY 1R7 Canada
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Incidental Scrawlings</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>Jeff's been doing a lot of traveling. Along the way he's been
illustrating the things he did and the people he met. It's all
collected in this enjoyable little mini about camping and
traveling through Florida.<P>
$1 ??? Each to
Jeff Zenick, Wheatcake Productions, P.O. Box 877, Tallahassee, FL 32302
(26 Pages/M/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Incidental Scrawlings</B> Issue 5 </DT>
<DD>Jeff's been doing a lot of traveling. Along the way he's been
illustrating the things he did and the people he met. This is
very much like an illustrated personal travel zine except that I
would never consider Jeff a punk --he's more like a beatnik or
vagabond.<P>
He's been living in the country for a while and has a longing for
a taste of modern life. It's simple to accomadate --head to the
edge of town, dumpster-dive a day-old pizza, pick up the mail,
and head off to a fast food joint.<P>
$1 Each to
Jeff Zenick, Wheatcake Productions, P.O. Box 877, Tallahassee, FL 32302
(22 Pages/M/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Inspired By Madonna</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 Spring, 1994</DT>
An artistic tribute to Madonna, whom Allan is extremely fond of,
to put it mildly. This zine also serves as a portfolio of his
work from the past several years. Each drawing only serves to
remind one of how much potential Allan has. There are also
quotes concerning Madonna, which goes hand-in-hand with the
art.<P>
Even if you are not a fan of Madonna, this collection will make
you a fan of Allan's art.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Allan Angel, PO Box 32231, San Jose, CA 95152
(34 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Instant Piano</B> Issue 1 August, 1994</DT>
What do you get when you combine the work of Mark Badger, Robbie
Busch, Evan Dorkin, Stephen Destefano, and Kyle Baker? Just one
of the coolest comix you can get. Don't let the publisher fool
you, this is not your typical slick commercialized comix, but
something a little closer to home. I guess it is every small
presser's dream comix, if they didn't have to worry about the
little things, like money. The most surprising thing is that
this issue is huge with tons of stories and styles, that makes
the whole thing read very well. <P>
$3.95 Each to
Dark Horse Comics, 10956 SE Main Street, Milwaukie, OR 97222
(48 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>James Kochalka Superstar</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>I find James' style quite appealing, with the heavy inks,
high contrast, simple shading, and minimal clutter. The dialog
tends to be mostly internal, giving the stories a very personal
touch.<P>
He takes a shart turn for this one. It features Magic Boy and
other strange creatures ingaged in unusual sexual scenerios.<P>
I liked the letters section featuring correspondence from many
cartoonists.<P>
$2 Each to
James Kochalka, P.O. Box 8321, Burlington, VT 05402-8321
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>James Kochalka Superstar</B> Issue 5 Fall, 1994</DT>
Jim is someone new to me, but this collection of stories is
rather pleasant. I really like his art-style which is simple,
but this is meant as a compliment. He uses a lot of zip-a-tone
which makes a nice balance with the rest of the art. I found one
particular story, "Kashitta," about a school bully who picks on a
younger Jim to be my favorite. I think it has to do with how one
feels about bullies and what sweet revenge would be like.
Overall, I found this zine acceptable and entertaining,
especially the art. It is a style not often seen in comix these
days.<P>
$2.00 Each to
James Kochalka, PO Box 8321, Burlington, VT 05402-8321
(20 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Jennifer Daydreamer</B> Issue 5 </DT>
Comics set in kind of a faerie, Alice in Wonderland place where
Cupid's arrows litter the ground and the enchanting Joe Clean
lives in a wishing well. Josie is pulled into this world through
a small hole in the ground but her heart is so sensitive that she
dies at the slightest affection. Very Oz-like only more
serious.<P>
$1? Each to
Jennifer Daydreamer, P.O. Box 85265, Seattle, WA 98145-1265
(16 Pages/D/CWB)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Jenny Butler/Lee Butler</B> </DT>
<DD>Two different stories both involving Tara Butler and Margaret
Brady, both created by Peter Rigg and Paul Schroeder, but each
one involving a different point in their lives. The *Lee Butler*
book tells us about when the girls were in Catholic school and
the abuses they endured. The *Jenny Butler* book takes place when
they're older --Jenny is married and Tara is a lesbian.<P>
The art is light but refined. Sorta traditional, like the true
craft of characture, but very effective in telling a story.<P>
$3 Each to
Paul Schroeder, 11A Lyme St (Basement), Camden London, NW1 0EH U.K.
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Jim</B>: By Jim Woodring Vol 2 Issue 3 July '94</DT>
<DD>Peering into the mind of Jim Woodring is a weird and
wonderful affair. He uses a dreamworld surrealist styles but the
success of this book is it's ability to capture your own
imagination. <P>
This one starts off with another pseudo-semi-autobiographical
piece about what happens after a weird romatic party game gets
even weirder. Another story shows that it takes true cleverness
to stay ahead in the forest, not just copying what other people
do.<P>
$2.95 + $1 Each , Subs: $12.00 for 4 issues to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(22 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Joy and Spider</B> Issue 6 </DT>
<DD>Really raw and sorta cute, featuring Joy (a star) and Spider
(just that) in various cartoonish situations. It's actually sorta
hip and sophisticated but it's hard to get through the very
primative illustrations and hard-to-read lettering.<P>
They do *Gulp* one better by writing *two word* zine reviews.<P>
2 stamps Each to
Art Biggs, 3152 S. Lincoln, Englewood, CO 80110
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Justin Hampton's Twitch</B> Issue 1 March, 1994</DT>
Justin's work has appeared in many publications over the past few
years, but before this comix I had never heard of him. Geez, I
wonder where he has been hiding all of my reviewing days? I
laughed outloud over the first story, "Hareraiser" about a women
who tries to correct the "bad" thing her dog does, only to make
the situation worse. I also enjoyed his "'Fraidy Cat," because I
am a cat lover and found this a true-to-life cat situation. The
cat kinda reminds me of my own cat. Nice work all the way
through.<P>
$2.75 Each to
Aeon, 5014-D Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
(36 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Kablooie</B> Issue 1 Summer '94</DT>
<DD>One look at these comix and you might think they're gross and
distgusting. I guess that's because they *are* gross and
disgusting. Comix about white trash, ugly people, strip bars, and
sex that are gross, disgusting and very funny. <P>
Mostly one-pagers but there's also the four-page story of Officer
Billy at the titty bar and the two-pager about Dominick's "booty
juice." It also comes with a free Kablooie pin-up poster.<P>
You may have seen 'em around already, he's been printed in
*Hypno, The Stranger,* and *Fiz*. <P>
$1 cash Each to
Vincent , Earwax Comix, P.O. Box 412961, Kansas City, MO 64141-2961
(16 Pages/HL/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Kari and the Pirate</B> Vol 1 Issue 7 August, 1994</DT>
What an issue! Eric packs more into each issue than some pro
writers do in months. This issue features a recap of the series,
which is guaranteed to hook you up to the hippest science-fiction
series being put out in small press. Kari is very ill and may
die, which leaves Sinbad and Company to find a cure. The ending
is a bonafide shocker!<P>
$1.00 Each , Subs: $ 6.00 for 6 issues to
Eric Hampton, 2733 Girard Avenue S., B-2 Minneapolis, MN 55408
(20 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Kill City</B>: Comics and Stories Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>It's been a while since the last *Barefoot and Pregnant* so
Dave put together this collection of stuff from past years.<P>
Some of it is quite fun. I think I even like it better then
*P&P.* I particularly like the comix about "Bob." <P>
$1 cash Each to
Dave Mitchell, Kill City Graphics, P.O. Box 5094, Winter Park, FL 32793-5094
(12 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Killer Ape</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>An impressive new book that deals with racial tention and
youth culture. I liked the timing of the book, it reminds me of a
well-edited movie. Also reminscent of *Love and Rockets* with its
focus on intricate story lines invoving rock bands and fans.<P>
It starts on the day of the Rodney King trial jury deliberations.
Tension in the air all across the country and especially in the
Boston/Roxburry area were this story takes place.<P>
An imressive first effort from this Xeric grant winner.<P>
$2.75 Each to
Greg Moutafis, Village Graphics, 41 Harvard St. #3, Brookline, MA 02146
(32 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>King-Cat</B>: Comics and Stories Issue 45 July '94</DT>
<DD>In September of '93 a bunch of John's friends came to visit
him in Denver for a long weekend of partying and fun. In
celebration, John illustrated several stories of the fun times
and asked three of his friend to contribute stories as well. <P>
The results are wonderful, showing how diferent artist portray
the same individuals and how different people percieve the same
events. The styles of John, Jerome, Joe, and Jason are so peronal
they really make you feel part of the events. <P>
I like John's style, short and sweet with a tinge of nostalgia.
An excellent example of road trip comics.<P>
$1.50 Each , Subs: $ 5.00 for 5 issues to
John Porcellino, Spit and a Half, P.O. Box 18510, Denver, CO 80218
(32 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>King-Cat</B>: Comics and Stories Issue 46 September '94</DT>
<DD>Simply drawn but one of the most enjoyble minicomics being
produced.<P>
In the intro he talked about things he did this summer but the
book is filled with things he dreampt and thought about. There's
his "Neil Young dream," the weird noisy night, and other
stories.<P>
I like John's style, short and sweet with a tinge of nostalgia.
An excellent example of road trip comics.<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 5.00 for 5 issues to
John Porcellino, Spit and a Half, P.O. Box 18510, Denver, CO 80218
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Kodo</B> Issue 1 December, 1994</DT>
<DD>An amazing, wordless story of dark, shoegazer despair. Mr.
Montano writes that's he'll review and trade with other comix in
the same genre, but I can't imagine there being too many of
those.<P>
Unwanted memories fill an otherwise sparse room. But there is no
sanctuary outside, just more brutality. No one can understand
kindness, as it's too alien. In the end, we're all our own
Prometheus, with dark memories tearing out our livers.<P>
$1.00 + SASE Each , Subs: $12.00 for 12 issues to
Dan Montano, Po Box 3411, Anaheim, CA 92803-3411
(12 Pages/D/JP)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Life Makes My Head Hurt</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>This one looks a lot like a self-published version of his
Slave Labor book *No Hope*. <P>
More depressing stories about life and work. Let me rephrase
that: More depressing and thoroughly-enjoyable stories about life
and work. <P>
50 cents Each to
Jeff Levine, 1574 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94117
(16 Pages/M/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Little Carrie Cross/Walter Ego</B> Issue 1 June '94</DT>
<DD>Andrew Hartzell creates comics which features narrative
stories without all those messy words that get in the way. He has
a lovely exaggerated style (he does charicatures of people for
cash), which bring out the humor in the art.<P>
Little Carrie was adopted by some born-agains but has a pecular
take on her parent's religion. Walter Ego is this pathetic little
squirt that gets beaten up by eveyone, even his new tough-boy
clothes. He said this is #1 but we'll wait and see if this is an
ongoing series or just another one-shot if his.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $ 6.00 for 3 issues to
Andrew Hartzell, 7083 Kenwood St, Las Vegas, NV 89117
(24 Pages/S/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Mabel Wants a Cookie</B> Issue 1 October '94</DT>
<DD>A unique collaboration between writer Curt Elsasser and Jon
Gernon. <P>
Each pages features a strange illustration accompanied by a
descriptive text. The themes are quite dark, focusing on sex,
death, or both. <P>
$2 Each to
Jon C. Gernon, Plante Monster Studio, 11-8 Valley View, Johnson Rd.
Watervliet, NY 12189
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Manic Panic</B> Issue 5 </DT>
<DD>A new series of self-published comix with lots of humor, wit,
and style. We get engaging funny stories with some naughty bits
thrown in. The artwork is realistic without being too
detailed.<P>
More stories about sex but with some genuine relationship issues
thrown in. I like all the thought balloons that show what people
are thinking while they say somthing else. Kate and Joyce are
definetly showing signs of development here. I'm looking foward
to see how they progress.<P>
Really fun stuff.<P>
$2 cash Each , Subs: $12.00 for 12 issues to
Kate Van Zyl, Plump not Pregnant Comix, 816 NW 1st Pl. Apt A, Gainesville, FL
32602
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Marked For Life</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>Highly stylized art with snippits of phrases scattered
throughout the pages. Each page is just filled with detail,
interlocking word boxes, splashes of ink, and some real creative
ideas. It's hard to follow the story here but you really don't
care because of all the excitement on the pages. <P>
$2.50 Each to
Greg Higgins, Chapped Press, 1418 Griffith, Las Vegas, NV 89104
(28 Pages/S/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Matrix</B> Vol 1 Issue 8 June, 1994</DT>
Heroine Debbie Andrews, aka Matrix, is still in a spot of
trouble. Her daughter, kidnapped by her ex-husband, has yet to
turn up and this issue has Debbie's parents coming to town to
help her out. Also lurking about is the mysterious Johnny Ace,
with an agenda which will ultimately involve Matrix.<P>
If you haven't been reading this one, now would be a good time to
pick it up.<P>
50 cents Each to
Sherman Burnett, Firebird Press, 210 Wayne Street, Monticello, KY 42633
(16 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Misery & Vomit</B> Issue 6 </DT>
<DD>Chantale's work is quite wonderful --sort of a cross between
Linda Barry and Julie Ducet. This one is so dark it looks like it
was done as block cuts but I'm sure it's pen and ink. <P>
Sadly, this is the last issue of *M&V*. She's been real busy with
many different projects and is getting kinda sick of
self-publishing. She goes out with a bang as this 36-page issue
is just just packed with stuff. Favorate pieces include spending
Sunday in bed, gaining wisdom from the mirror, and the beauty of
life in the city.<P>
$3 + IRC Each to
Chantale Elena Doyle, P.O. Box 42033, Montreal, PQ H2W 2T3 Canada
(36 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Mish Mash</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>This is another collection of comics by Seth (oh no, not
another one) Feinberg. The stories are good (not great) but
there's something very appealing about the art --it sorta
reminds me of Michael Dougan maybe.<P>
I liked the piece about depression and some more nifty comix
about music. <P>
$2 ??? Each to
Seth Feinberg, Skidmark Press, P.O. Box 293, Brookline, MA 12146
(32 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Monkey Spuzz</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>A sort of expansion of Chad's *Realm of Satan* comic. We get
more comics about Satan and some reviews.<P>
It presents "the shocking true story of a turd possessed by the
Devil." <P>
Lots of sex, violence, and bad smells.<P>
$1 Each to
Chad A. Scheres, P.O. Box 461027, Los Angeles, CA 90046
(20 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Mooncat's Happy Book/Snuz</B> </DT>
A double, flip over book with comic reviews in the middle. I like
the Mooncat side better but much of the stuff seems to be several
years old. Lots of different things created in many different
styles. The stories are joyful and fun, capturing the inocence of
childhood experiences. Most useful are the two pages of reviews,
expecially considering that Paul is now reviewing for the British
comic review zine *Zum*.<P>
$3 Each to
Paul Schroeder, 11A Lyme St (Basement), Camden London, NW1 0EH U.K.
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>More Skin</B> </DT>
<DD>Another large collection of comix by Danna Han. <P>
This one has lots of recent work --it seems like she's been
really productive recently. More personal then the last
collection with stories about what's going on in her mind.<P>
Very primative but there are some good moments. <P>
$2.50 Each to
Donna Han, 2850 21st St, San Francisco, CA 94110
(41 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>My Thoughts on Kurt Corbain</B>: 1967-1994 Vol 1 Issue 1
Spring, 1994</DT>
This is probably the best small press comic of the year as John
MacLeod writes and illustrates his attempt at coming to terms
with rocker Kurt Corbain. Suicide is never an answer and John
doesn't make excuses for Kurt. What he tries to do is get behind
the man. The art and story combine to present a stunning piece
of art. This is John at his best. This is Kurt at his best.
This zine illustrates just how good small press can be. <P>
$1.00 Each to
John MacLeod , PO Box 671, Guelph, ON N1H 6L3 Canada
(16 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Myra's World</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 August, 1994</DT>
"Like father, like son," the old saying goes as we have David
Shipley, son of Steve Shipley, venturing off into his first small
press book. Myra is a superhero and most of the action deals
with her assorted friends building up the characters and spinning
plots that are sure to be played out in future issues. As a
first issue this one comes across remarkably well, with a decent
story and good art. Can't wait to see where David will be a year
from now.<P>
$1.25 Each to
David Shipley, AKA Comics, 1824 Glen Valley Drive, Toledo, OH 43614
(16 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Naked Eye</B> Issue 8 </DT>
<DD>I really like Steve's style, clean lines, loud characters,
with autobiographical stuff too. <P>
We get some longer stories in this issue as Steve prepares to go
national with his new publisher, Antarctic Press. My favorate
piece is his illustration of Brian Johnson's story of finding
some guy drinking his one unine on the train.<P>
Lots of eyeballs thrown in for good measure.<P>
$2 Each to
Steve King, 1333 W. Estes #16, Chicago, IL 60626
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Nat Hate Comics</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>I'm not sure of the names of these comix. Considering the
stories here, I'm not sure Nat really cares. Poorly drawn
autobiographical comix, but so excruciatingly painfully whinny
they're actually quite engaging.<P>
Stories about friends, family, and all the uncertinties in life.
<P>
stamps Each to
Nat Hate, P.O. Box 1865, Olympia, WA 98502
(16 Pages/HL/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Naughty Bits</B>: By Roberta Gregory Issue 13 </DT>
<DD>All of us pissed off women have a sister in Bitchy Bitch,
Roberta Gregory's main character in *Naughty Bits.* Gregory
treats women's rage with both respect and a healthy sense of
humor. <P>
This issue finds Bitchy getting back to work after her vacation,
trying to avoid an office party, buying a new answering machine
(so she can screen calls), and dealing with her co-worker's
reaction to the new gal, a lesbian. Incredibly, Bitchy does find
some serenity over the weekend, reading a good book and cleaning
her house. <P>
Like many others, Roberta Gregory started out publishing her own
stuff. Know what? She's still doing it. You can even get a
catalog directly from her at P.O. Box 27438, Seattle, WA 98125.
<P>
$2.50 Each , Subs: $ 7.00 for 3 issues to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(24 Pages/C/MLW)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Naughty Bits</B>: By Roberta Gregory Issue 14 </DT>
<DD>All of us pissed off women have a sister in Bitchy Bitch,
Roberta Gregory's main character in *Naughty Bits.* Gregory
treats women's rage with both respect and a healthy sense of
humor. <P>
In #14, Bitchy Bitch discovers lesbains are people too when a new
co-worker turns out to be gay, much to the consternation of the
office religious nut. Bitchy's feelings are admirably complex on
the matter, including a sense of sisterhood and also of fear that
by hanging around with the new girl, people will think she's
"funny" too.<P>
Like many others, Roberta Gregory started out publishing her own
stuff. Know what? She's still doing it. You can even get a
catalog directly from her at P.O. Box 27438, Seattle, WA 98125.
<P>
$2.50 Each , Subs: $ 7.00 for 3 issues to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(24 Pages/C/MLW)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Nervous Tales</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Slickly produced comic book for the anxious generation. With
lots of '50s styling.<P>
"I, Marty Weintraub" follows the life of a working schlub with a
kinky heart and a murderous hand. The second episdode of "Love
International" finds those '60s groovers trying to set the
Rolling Stones free from their puritanical captors. "Hack" is a
sharp satire of superhero comics and their creators.<P>
$2.95 Each to
Caspar Williams, 15 Montpelier Rd., Brighton, SU BN1 2KQ U.K.
(28 Pages/S/MLW)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>New Pompeii</B>: The Manga-'Zine for Gaijin & Girljin alike!
Issue 3 Winter 94/95</DT>
<DD>Michael, a self-described "white, male & speak English!" kind
of guy found that the world, or at least Canada, wasn't going to
get handed to him on a platter. So he ups and moves to Japan to
be a JET (Junior English Teacher, I guess) or "Rainbow Dude
Sport." The good news for us zine readers is that he has managed
an incredible simulation of honest-to-God Manga. *Everything* is
as it should be, long-haired (always covering that one eye) rebel
male protagonist, nervous round-eyed Japanese guys, beautiful
horny women, cryptic dialogue, bad jokes, sex, a nightmarish
diversions.<P>
Rainbow Sport Dude gives great snide answers to the same
questions every Japanese guy seems to ask the local gaijin. "So,
why are you here?" "For the ikebana." Plus Draemon vs.
Garfield, and the nightmare toilet experience.<P>
If it were all Nihongo, and the staples were on the *right* side,
you'd think this was a "real" manga. Amazing!<P>
$2.00 Each , Subs: $12.00 for 6 issues to
Michael Hind, 4-18-23, Wakakusa-Cho Utsunomiya-Shi, T320 Japan
(28 Pages/A5/JP)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>No Fixed Abode</B>: The Squalids Issue 1 July '94</DT>
<DD>In a vallant attempt to alienate his readers Shane started
this new series about a twentysomething couple that practically
define "looser." <P>
Stories about panhandling, taking drugs, turning tricks, memories
of blackouts, and removing the ODed after a part. Funny in a
gross sort of way.<P>
$2 Each to
Shane Simmons, 733 43rd Ave., Lachine, PQ H8T 2J5 CANADA
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Not Available Comics</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 September, '94</DT>
<DD>Matt is the pioneer of stick pencil drawing and long ago
established himself the master of the mini format. <P>
This one, titled "CuteGirl" starts off with a story of CuteGirl
working in her garden. She decides to rename a slug to something
cuter like "yard slipper" but her cat ate her anyway. Then she
goes to visit her mother and make pierogi and dance to polka
music. Matt had some help from Karen Majewski for this one.<P>
Always funny and the best of the best. Everyone should have
Feazell in their collection, because it doesn't get any better
than Matt.<P>
50 cents Each to
Matt Feazell, 3867 Bristow, Detroit, MI 48212
(8 Pages/M/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Oatmeal</B> Issue 8 Fall, 1994</DT>
One never knows what the imaginative Tim Ereneta is going to
throw into each new issue, but whatever he decides, you can bet
it is going to be entertaining. Tim never does the ordinary and
writes and draws whatever comes to mind. I think this is why Tim
seems so fresh all the time, because he is doing this for himself
first. I really enjoyed "My Story So Far . . . " which details
what happens when Tim brings home three dozen roommates, because
things are too quiet around his place. These are not your
typical roommates and this is where the fun begins. "True Night"
showcases Tim's artistic abailities and shows great detailed
drawing that is always improving. Lastly, I need to mention the
very touching "I Still Think of You, Jim Henson" by Chris Aubrey,
which is destined to become a small press classic. Tim is always
experimental and trying to top the next thing with something even
better and on this point he succeeds again and again.<P>
50 cents Each to
Tim Ereneta, 40 Moss Avenue Apt #204, Oakland, CA 94210
(16 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Oh, Comics!</B>: The Official Comic of the Mid-Ohio Con Issue
7 October, 1994</DT>
This one comes once a year during the Mid-Ohio Con and it is not
often enough for this fan. Bob Corby does an incredible job of
coordinating over twenty of small press' finest talent. Most of
the contributors are from Ohio but not all of them. Larry Blake,
Tyim Courts, J. Kevin Carrier, Eric Hess, and Matt Feazell are
just some of the stars appearing in this issue. As an added
bonus, Bob lists all of the current small press work by all of
those involved, so it is easy to enjoy more comix from the
delicious samplings you are treated to here. Also included is a
comprehensive listing of small press reviewzines.<P>
For the price, content and quality, you would be hard pressed to
find a better bargain.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Bob Corby, Corby Visual Productions, 2490 Royalwood Drive, Dublin, OH 43017
(68 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Oh...</B>: Immola and the Luna Legion </DT>
This comic book features Joan Hilty's lesbian superhero Immola
and her pals. Immola returns to her old college for a reunion and
hangs out with her old college counselor. (Her college even had a
support group for superheros.) She manages to catch up with
unfinished business from her collage days, and foil the villians
(I don't want to give away too much) at the same time.<P>
$4.50 Each to
Oh..., Box 41030, 5134 Cordova Bay Ro, Victoria, B. V8Y 2KO Canada
(40 Pages/C/LR)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>One Nation Underground</B>: by Adam Air </DT>
<DD>Adam sure has a wild illustration style. I'd be tempted to
call it "grungey" expect that Mat Groening has probably put that
in the forbiden words list by now. His comics are filled with
sqatters and punks but rended so stylized that it almost becomes
satirical.<P>
The highlight is certainly the "Sesame Squat" story where the
Children's Television Workshop gets bought out by "N.B.S." who
then go and fire Oscar the Grouch. After a while Oscar joins up
with a bunch of squaters and then goes on a vengeful rampage.
Soon to be reprinted in *Iron Feather Journal.*<P>
$5 Each to
Steven Prothero, P.O. Box 1905, Boulder, CO 80306
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Palookaville</B>: by Seth Issue 5 May '94</DT>
<DD>No, I'm not reviewing this because we share the same name.
I'm reviewing this becasue "Seth" has a wonderful artistic style
and an incredible abilty to convey mood and feelings in a story.
He's able to control curves and use just the right amount of
zip-a-tone to give his stories a wonderful dreamy look. <P>
This is second part of the "Kalo" story in which Seth becomes
becomes fixated on the cartoons of Kalo who made several
appearances in the *New Yorker* and is now pretty much lost to
obsurity. Thanks to a perceptive girl, we find out that his real
name is Jack Kalloway and was born in Ontario. The search
continues.<P>
, Subs: $ 8.95 for 4 issues to
Drawn and Quarterly Publications, 5550 Jeanne Mance Street, No. 16 Montreal,
PQ H2V 4K6 Canada
(28 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Paper Tales</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>I think I've seen Bruce's work before. Maybe it was in *City
Limits Gazette*, or maybe for Kitchen Sink. Anyway, he's got a
fun style that uses a minimal amout of lines to produce a full
comical effect. <P>
There's a comic story about the Beatles, a Morty the Dog story,
and Steve *(CLG)* Willis reviewing Beatles songs by other
artists.<P>
$3 Each to
Bruce Chrislip, CLG Comics, 8057 13th NW, Seattle, WA 98117
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Paranoid Bachelor Guy</B> </DT>
<DD>I can't figure out if this is really funny or just stupid and
hateful. Lots of poorly-drawn comix and un-PC language. <P>
If you like racist, sexist, stupid, (and possibly
tounge-in-cheek) humor then check this one out.<P>
free Each to
P.O. Box 109, Gardena, CA 90248
(22 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Pasadena After Hours</B> Issue 2 November '94</DT>
<DD>This special sex and love issue continues the expressive
style and charm of the first release but with a slightly sad
tone to it. There are still funny pieces such as "Loverboy"
(about all the funny things you say in bed -"My Dad taught me
that one" , "Can I smoke now?") and "Two Yolks" (about the rare
chance of cumming twice in a row) but most have this dreamy, sad
feeling of wondering about old loves or the sorrow of two people
who once were happy but are no longer getting along. My favorite
is "I Hope I Don't End Up Like Him" which is closer to an
illustrated poem than a story. It's a beautiful and sad comment
on enjoying love and life while it lasts and then letting go. <P>
$1 Each to
David Young, 4200 Pasadena Place NE #2, Seattle, WA 98105-6064
(16 Pages/HL/CWB)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Peacemakers</B> Vol 1 Issue 6 Spring, 1994</DT>
The Peacemakers are an intergalactic police force who solve the
galaxy's problems through non-violent means. Features
"Peace-Killers" by Jim Pack and Mark Poe in which the Peacemakers
meet their evil dopplegangers from an alternate universe. The
second story, "A Common Criminal," done by Steve Keeter and
Scott McClung is a real treat because we are treated to a cameo
appearance of the Oracle Agents.<P>
As usual Shipley puts out a high quality superhero/sci-fi title
that doesn't disappoint.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Steve Shipley, 1824 Glen Valley Drive, Toledo, OH 43614
(20 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Peacemakers</B> Issue 7 September, 1994</DT>
Big changes are in store for this series, which will be
celebrating ten years in 1995. Lots of new characters and
serious development are the key things as Steve Shipley takes his
peacekeepers into new territory. The Peacekeepers themselves are
like an intergalactic police force who believe in solving the
universe's problems through non-violent means. This issue
Shipley's stars of the series, the beautiful Angel and the noble
Stefan, are put to the ultimate test and fail. The ending ofthis
one is a shocker and promises to give this series new life. Now
is the time to pick up this science-fiction series.<P>
$2.00 Each to
AKA Comics, 1840 Garden Ridge Apt. 3, Toledo, OH 43614
(20 Pages/D/RON)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Pechanko</B> Issue 18 August '94</DT>
<DD>The world's first trilingual zine? I'm not sure but it's the
first one I've ever seen. English, Japanese, and Spanish. It's an
ejoyable zine about multicultural experiences.<P>
Iver certainly has an interesting life. Besides speaking three
languages, born in America, currently living in Japan, and
drawing comics --He just returned from trip to Cuba. This issue
is devoted to documenting the experiences of the trip. <P>
Particularly recommended if you're into languages or travel.<P>
$2 cash Each to
Iver Torikian, Oiden 2-chome 10-2-103, Tarumi-ku Kobe, 655 Japan
(11 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Penni Dreadful</B> Issue 1 Summer</DT>
<DD>Andrew's responsible for *Rat Sass*, *On The Bus*, and
others. This new series, intended to be quarterly, is an ongoing
series of single-page comics about a bitchy former rock star
who's trying to get going as a radio DJ. <P>
Sometimes over dramatic but that just adds to the humor.<P>
Funny stuff about the struggles about life in Las Vegas.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $ 5.00 for 4 issues to
F. Andrew Taylor, 3200 Arville St #114, Las Vegas, NV 89102
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Pervert</B> Issue 6 </DT>
<DD>Sex comix but not your typical sex comix. Stories of real sex
or tragic sex but certainly no pirates or big boobs.<P>
This is the jam issue, featuring story/art comic jams with Dave
Cooper, Cantalye Doyle, David Greenberger and others. It's a
really fine book with some of the more interesting art in the
underground (and some very sick stories).<P>
Fun for the whole family --well maybe not the *whole* family.<P>
$3 cash Each to
Gavin McInnes, Box 42023, Montreal, PQ H2W 2T3 Canada
(24 Pages/HL/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Peter Kuper's Wild life</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>I finally got ahold of Peter's *New York New York* and it's
incredible seeing the growth and transformation his work has gone
through since the late 80s. I love the early early stuff but it's
lacking the cohesiveness and storytelling of his recent work that
grabs you by the cerebellum and pulls you into these personal but
twisted tales of angst. <P>
Looking at his early work you see experiments in shading,
zip-a-tone, collages, and personal vision but *Wild Life* is more
then just an example of a mature sophisticated work --he's got a
recognizable style that has the power to convey a full range of
emotions without loss of continuity. I lust loved this long piece
that tells the tale of his early experiments with drugs that
mirror my own experiences and probably does the same for many
other who read it. I feel like I experienced many of the
situations described here --which is what great storytelling is
all about.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Phlegm</B> Vol 1 Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>A strange collection of comix -- some surreal, some just
weird.<P>
Lots of cool stuff by Brian Basham, Joel Orff, and Jeff Zenick.
Jeff did a wonderful piece about the joys of seeing live music
and Joel created a very dark piece about getting ripped off that
really recreates the mood of the experience.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $10.00 for 6 issues to
C. L. Baldock, Stinkbug Studios/Press Publications, H&HS TAVSC, Bldg 443, MCAS
El Toro Santa Ana, CA 92709
(32 Pages/D/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Pizazz Comics Unlimited</B> Vol 1 Issue 36 August,
1994</DT>
First issue under new chairman Victor Gates who keeps the ball
rolling with another well-done issue. Pizazz members produce
high quality zines done in good taste. Members include such well
known small pressers as Eric Hampton, Larry Blake, and Rick
Bradford. If you are tired of the violence, gore, and suggestive
comix being put out, then you should definitely check out this
group's stuff.<P>
$1.35 Each to
Pizazz Comics, 552 Lancelot Drive, N. Salt Lake City, UT 84054-2230
(24 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Planet of Geeks</B>: by R.L. Crabb Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>R.L. Crabb has a wonderful style. He uses just the right
amount of precision and exaggeration to keep his stories lively.
<P>
Starting off Crabb's new series about the world of geeks is a
great single-pager of a hot babe explaining why she just
luuuuvvss geeky men. Then we get a really funny piece about a
Hollywood mogel that finds his next movie idea in a the life of a
geeky homeless guy. And finally R.L. reveals the truth about the
legenday roladex.<P>
$2.75 Each to
Starhead Comix, P.O. Box 30044, Seattle, WA 98103
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Politically Correct</B> Issue 1 Summer, 1994</DT>
Another zine from the zine factory of Allan Angel, who happens to
be one of the hottest artists in small press these days. Funny
cartoons, artwork, and autobiographical snippets combine to make
this a winner. Slick and nicely done.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Allan Angel, PO Box 32231, San Jose, CA 95152-2231
(20 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Posthumous Warnings</B> Issue 14 February '94</DT>
<DD>Dense compilation of strips from K. Thor Jensen that goes
well beyond the two minute scribble. "Tunnel of Love" is a nice
long story of 6th grade anxiety over "going with someone." Thor
has to decide if Bridget is sincere or just teasing him with her
proposition to go steady. "The Morning Song" is an almost
wordless piece about taking a walk to give some friends some
privacy. A lot of the panels look like charcoal and marker were
combined, giving the art a very stark feel. "The Complex Planet
Illustrated" is a perfect parody of David Greenberger's popular
comic. The question is "Where do you see yourself in ten years?"
and everyone answers some version of the word "dead."<P>
$2 Each to
Kristopher Jensen, 5911 47th Avenue SW, Seattle, WA 98136
(30 Pages/D/CWB)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Precision Auto</B> Issue 1 </DT>
Comic compilation with a broad variety of styles. There are short
political pieces, stick figure stories, scratchy-as-hell dream
sequences, and everything else too. The opener "Hey Jim!" by S.
Faulkner, got me laughing right off the bat. Jim Woodring is
exerpted from an interview and discusses what apparitions are. I
can't tell if it's the text, art, or just Jim that makes this
piece so funny. "Half a Person" by A. Brubaker and C. Steadman
was another standout. A 14 year old girl loses her virginity and
the guy wears the shirt the next day to show off the blood
stains. The end panel leaves you wondering what ever happened to
that shirt. This compilation shows a lot of promise and I really
hope to see it continue.<P>
$1 Each to
Scott Faulkner, 323 Broadway Ave. E, Box #711 Seattle, WA 98102
(16 Pages/D/CWB)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Probosco</B> Issue 2 Summer '94</DT>
<DD>An immesely silly book. Mark Newgarden experimented with
drawing very large noses but nothing like this. Jim's character
is essentially a tall thin tube with a nose that goes out
to...infinity, I guess. <P>
The first half of #1 is just a collection of silly cartoons but
the second half is a surreal story about his eyes wandering off
and falling in love. #2 1/2 seems a bit more strangely
experimental.<P>
$1 Each to
Jim Richardson, P.O. Box 1041, Berkeley, CA 94701
(22 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Probosco</B> Issue 3 Winter '95</DT>
<DD>An immesely silly book. Mark Newgarden experimented with
drawing very large noses but nothing like this. Jim's character
is essentially a tall thin tube with a nose that goes out
to...infinity, I guess. <P>
I like the intro where he scientifically analyzes what a Probosco
is and how it works. Following that are many single-page strips
that elaborate in every way imaginable on the Probosco theme. <P>
$1 + 2 stamps Each to
Jim Richardson, P.O. Box 1041, Berkeley, CA 94701
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Psycho Kev</B> Issue 3 September, 1994</DT>
Something wierd is going on in Kevin Strait's subconscious and it
is not good. Some say it's doomsday, but no one in Kevin's mind
can be sure. On top of this is the mysterious man in black and
the being known as Erebus. This is the story behind the
relatively new mini-series from newcomer Lee Kitzis, with fan
favorite J. Kevin Carrier guest penciling this issue. This cool
comix offers loads of possiblilities in future issues. Very
enjoyable zine that whets ones appetite for even more. Lee
definitely shows some real talent and it will be real interesting
to see where it goes.<P>
50 cents Each to
Lee Kitzis, 1027 N. Hayes, Oak Park, IL 60302
(8 Pages/M/RON)
back issues/no ads. email gridr...@aol.com <P>
<DT> <B>Pumk</B> Issue 1 Summer, 1994</DT>
It is really cool to see new, young blood enter small press.
This micro-comic is from Ry Fyau, who is only fifteen. He takes
his drawing seriously and has been doing so for as long as he can
remember. Ry also likes to read zines, sample different kinds of
music, and is really into skateboarding. Most of this issue is
pin-up work, but Ry shows a lot of potential and is obviously
talented. He plugs a few zines and even gets around to talking
about skateboarding. Ry likes to trade other zines, and this
zine is worth a trade.<P>
to
Ry Fyau, Po Box 1114, Frazier Park, CA 93225
(36 Pages/M/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Quke Pack o' Five</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>*Pack o' Five* is a collection of five 16-page minis created
by Caesar and available from Trippin Cat. Each book is a fine
example of the mini format. Single pages sketches that are so
wacky they're funny.<P>
It's like the weirdness of being lost in space right here on
earth.<P>
$2 + 2 stamps Each to
Caesar Meadows, Trippin Cat, 828 Royal St. #246, New Orleans, LA 70116-3115
(78 Pages/M/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>R2D2 is an Indie Rocker</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>A very silly book about R2D2 and his pals forming an punk
band.<P>
This issue is even better than the first one. It's a complete
story, sorta combining themes from Star Wars, Scooby Doo, and the
recent changes at *MRR*. Everything thing is going great for R2
and his pals until punks start disapearing from the scene. They
head over to lookout records for advice from Larry Livermore but
someone throws a Doc Martin through the window and it hits him in
the head, causing amnesia. Then it's off to the MRR Church of
Punk Rock to find out what's really happening.<P>
The art is incredibly primimative but who cares. It's so damn
satirical and silly that's it actually quite funny. <P>
$1.50 Each to
Jef Czekaj, 515 West Buffalo St, Ithaca, NY 14850-4013
(22 Pages/D/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Rap Sheet</B> Issue 50 October, 1994</DT>
In honor of it's 50th issue, the Small Press Syndicate has
teamed-up with the United Fanzine Organization to present this
all comics extravaganza. Over two dozen small press stars
contributed to this special including Nik Dirga, J. Kevin
Carrier, Bob Elinskas, Robert L. Sumner, and Randy Reynaldo.
This is a good way to preview small pressers whom you may never
have had the chance to sample before. Included are addresses and
the latest publications of both the SPS and the UFO. For the
price you can't get a better opportunity to sample so much for so
little.<P>
$2.50 Each to
J. Kevin Carrier, 8913 Eldora Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45236
(80 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Real Girl/Girl Talk</B> Issue 7 </DT>
<DD>This is a split book with the first issue of *Girl Talk*
matched up with *Real Girl*. Both books compile comics about
gender politics and related topics so they make a good match.<P>
*Girl Talk* features work by editors Isabella Bannerman, Ann
Decker, and some others. *Real Girl* has a variety of
contributors including a great piece by Pete Freidrich, a comic
about the sex industry by Lisi Dehaas, and stories by David
Gilden and Jayne Lazzeri.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(32 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Real Stuff</B>: by Dennis Eichorn Issue 19 </DT>
<DD>Through the comic pages of *Real Stuff*, Dennis's life is
exposed for all to see. Well, not completely exposed, his hires
some of the best illustrators around to interperate the
adventures for us to see. <P>
This one features yet another chapter if Denny's stuggles to rid
himself of Wildman Fischer brought to life by J.R. Williams;
Ariel Bordeaux illustrated the time Denny wandered into a party
given by Rip-Off Press; and Jim *(Cultural Jet Lag)* Siergey
presented a somewhat fictional account of what might have
happened at some point in Denny's life.<P>
Pick any book in the series, you'll instantly become hooked.<P>
$3.50 Each to
Fantagraphics, 7563 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
(24 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Ripe Peelings</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>An amusing comic about a kid who's *very* addicted to
caffineted soda pop. Derek has a very humorous way of
illustrating the story using exaggerated choas. There's a few
moments that remind me of *Ren and Stimpy* but not enough to call
foul. <P>
50 cents +2stamp Each to
Derek Myers, P.O. Box 8313, Medford, OR 97504
(25 Pages/D/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Rotgut Funnies</B> Vol 1 Issue 8 August, 1994</DT>
It is no secret that I am a big fan of Larry Blake's work, who
has been doing small press for what seems like forever. His art
is awesome. One of the best, if not the best, small press
artists around. Each panel of each page is meticulously done
with great care. This book clearly shows Larry has a keen sense
of humor that is sure to get you laughing. As always with
Larry's books, this one features a gorgeous hand-colored cover by
Larry.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Larry Blake, 69306 ST Route 124, Reedsville, OH 43772
(24 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Rubber Balls & Liquor</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>A short comic zine about love and sex.<P>
The first part is a comic story about what really happens in a
singles bar and the send half is a funny rant exploring why we
don't see more male genitalia on TV and in the movies.<P>
$1 Each to
Apolinar Luz, P.O. Box 48133, Niles, IL 60714-0133
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Satan Slasher</B> Summer, 1994</DT>
The team of Bob Dixon and Scott Shriver are back again with a
brand new title. The story is a bit vague and I would imagine
just the opening shot of something much bigger. Shades of Spawn
here, but this guy seems more towards a villain than an actual
good guy. In my book the good guys never kill just for the fun
of it. Shriver's art is another matter entirely. This is one
guy who shows a lot of talent and potential. This is some of his
best work to date.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Pocket Change Comics, 9680 Lake Seminole Drive E., Seminole, FL 34643
(20 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>School Bus</B>: For Wee Folks Issue 5 </DT>
<DD>Primative, autobigraphical, self-indulgent comics that are
really fun. I've seen stuff like this before but Jason's really
stand out from the bunch. <P>
On the heels of his tragic apartment fire he bounces back with
another great issue. In case you haven't heard about it, you can
just pick up this issue for all the gory deatails rendered in his
patented raw style. There's other great coimcs like the weird
customers that come into the record store he works at, his
appreciation of *Eightball*, his honest feelings about local
cartoonist James Kochalka, dealing with Kinkos, and a defense of
his "dreaded badly-drawn and self-indulgent" style.<P>
He's able to take the duldrums of slacker life and transform them
into enjoyable tragi-comic stories. <P>
$2.50 Each , Subs: $10.00 for 6 issues to
Jason Skool Bus, 15 River Street, Winooski, VT 05404
(36 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Sequels</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>I'm usually not too impressed by first comics. Unlike zine
publishing, it ususally takes *years* for someone to develop the
necessary tallents for creating an enjoyable comic. I think this
is Sean's first stab at comics but he's already gotten his feet
we publishing his *Raimi-zine*<P>
He presented the best and worst reasons for doing an
autobiographical comic, discussed the death of Kurt Cobain, and
had fun with a chainsaw in economics class.<P>
$1.50 Each , Subs: $ 8.00 for 6 issues to
Sean MacLaggan, Burning Corpse Comics, 3617 Chaben Place, Apt. 209,
Saskatoon, SK 57H 4E9 Canada
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Sextime Laffs</B> Issue 3 June '94</DT>
<DD>A new comic collection from Dave Matthews, creator of *Crunky
Slugs* and *Tianamen Sluts.*<P>
Dave illustrate the story of a normal guy who's sexually obsessed
with cotton/polyester blend sheet --I mean *really* obsessed.<P>
$1 Each to
Dave Matthews, P.O. Box 23483, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(8 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Shadowtown</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>Comic book about an African American Nation. But all is not
utopia, there's a repressive gang of thugs called The Black Fist,
a peacenik minister, and an underground revolutionary group. <P>
The art is kinda flat but the story is quite complex, offering a
lot if you put the time into it.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Madheart Productions, #401-365 Ginger Drive, New Westminster, BC V3L 5L5
Canada
(32 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Shards</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Comics that are just silly enough to be funny. Squiggles the
sperm lives in Testicle City and practices everyday for the big
race. When it finally occurs, Squiggles and all the other sperm
realize that there can be no winners as they die against a latex
barrier. In the following humorous story, Smokey the Bear gets
blamed for causing a big blaze and is sentenced to burning at the
stake by angry campers. I'm sure this would go over big with the
environmentalists. <P>
$1 Each to
David Mello, 224 Bellevue Ave E #5, Seattle, WA 98102
(18 Pages/D/CWB)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Shit Outta Luck</B>: Tales of High School Duds Issue 1
Spring '94</DT>
<DD>This is really twisted stuff. What's most twisted about it is
that it all seems so realistic, like shit that I went through in
high school. Twenty-eight pages of the strangest "memories" of
life in high school. It's from the same folks that published
*Grunt* so you know it's gonna be good (or maybe just Vile, rude,
grotesque, and obscene).<P>
My favorate parts are the single page "Fond memories of stupid
stunts by asshole friends." Don't worry there's lots of longer
stories garanteed to make you ill and wanna forget you'r
"glorious high school days." <P>
They also have some cool stickers (50 cents) showing what famous
comic characters would look like if you were tripping.<P>
$2 Each to
Jay Young, Grunt Graphics, P.O. Box 5782, Springfield, MO 65801
(28 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Silly Daddy</B>: by Joe Chiappetta </DT>
<DD>I don't think I've seen Joe's work before and I must say I'm
impressed. It's not for the illustration style --it's very raw
and confusingly unballanced --but it's the storytelling that I'm
so impressed with. Joe has a great way of transforming his
personal experiences into compelling stories.<P>
Wonderful stories about Joe, his wife Suzy, and his daughter
Maria. He tells us about his internal struggles against being an
abusive father, how he externally violent like his father, the
occational family difficulties, and they total joys of
parenthood. I like how he jumps around, mixing two simultanious
story lines. Lots of references to other cartoonists and indie
comics people. Lots of fun and 98 pages means there's pleanty of
it. <P>
$7.95 Each to
Joe Chiappetta, 2209 Northgate, North Riverside, IL 60546
(98 Pages/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Sketchbook</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 June, 1994</DT>
This slick anthology book contains a sampling of five different
stories ranging from superhero adventures to the supernatural.
Some like "The Risen" really came off good, but others did not
fare as well. I didn't get a big kick out of "Assassin X." All
of the stories are nicely drawn and feature good writing. None
of the features are really short, but are generous with content.
This zine does whet the appetite for more.<P>
$2.95 Each to
Freelance Studios, 139 Old South River Road, Jackson, GA 30233
(52 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Slacker Comcs</B>: by Doug Slack Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>What a great name for a comic book, especally if you name is
Doug Slack. Doug's got a really great style, very lively and
fluid.<P>
My favorate stories are the one's featuring his main character,
Randy, who is a pissed-off slacker guy who can't get no
satisfaction. There's also the story of Mother Justice, the nun
who's purpose in life is to stop all sexual pleasure<P>
$3.50 Each to
Slave Labor Graphics, 983 S. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128
(32 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Slight Headache</B> Issue 17 June '94</DT>
<DD>A series of minicomics (very mini). So mini, they're almost
cute. I normally would ignore somthing this small and primative
but Scott is truly the master of the micro-mini format. Each page
is a quick sketch and a surreal phrase attached to it. <P>
"Popular frat hairstyles." "Let's make America great again." "I
am not a rauschist!" <P>
Very silly stuff but totally worth the price of admission.<P>
$0.25 + SASE Each to
Scott Dolan, P.O. Box 1935, Iowa City, IA 52240-1935
(40 Pages/M/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Snappy Tract</B> </DT>
<DD>A strange collection of detoured comic strips. Very
reminiscent of the Disfunctional Family Circus strips that float
around but unfortunately they're not as funny. <P>
He borrows images from Brenda Starr, Spider Man, Nancy, and even
the Family Circus --and thankfully *NO Jack Chick.*<P>
3 stamps Each to
Dan Treadway, 1500 Castle Ct #4A, Houston, TX 77006
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Sperm Guns</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>I don't know much about Christian rock and what I do know I
learned from a Jack Chick comic. In the tradition of Chick's
*Angels?* comes Perry's new book that seems like a twisted
variation of that very twisted book. It's wacky and weird and
full of bright-eyed children and religiously-confused teenagers.
In this first issue we find out the secret orgins of the
Christian rock band the Sperm Guns and how they were organized by
Norman's Christian Gunmart.<P>
$2 ??? Each to
Perry Vasquez, 4033 Dove St #10, San Diego, CA 92103
(24 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Staros Report</B> Issue 2 January, 1995</DT>
If you like comics of all kinds then plug into the fanzine
dedicated to the most intelligent and innovative comics in the
industry. This slick, easy-to-read zine knows no boundries in
its scope. Listed is the most important comics in the industry
and though you may not agree with the order, you cannot disagree
with his overall choices. Making this particular selection even
better, is the genrous smattering of art throughout. You will
also find the definitive Neil Gaiman and Alan Moore biography.
There is also a directory of well-known publishers and
distributors. This zine is a first class job all the way and is
something that Chris takes great care in assembling. This is one
fanzine that a comic collector should have in their collection,
if only as an invaluble reference tool.<P>
$2.50 Each to
Chris Staros, The Staros Report, PO Box 1282, Marietta, GA 30061-1282
(76 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Steven's Comics</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>Rich and lighthearted comic stories from childhood.<P>
"The Wonder Woman Doll Saga" is about a boy's anguishing decision
over buying a WW Doll when he knows his brothers will tease him.
"Holding her in my hands was amazing! She was strong but also
beautiful!" Once he buys the amazon and takes her home, the
name-calling becomes unbearable and he flings the doll across the
room in anger, breaking poor Wonder Woman's leg. "Former Child
Cartoon Stars at Their Monthly Support Meeting" is a one panel
gripe session that has Charlie Brown complaining about child
support, Casper branded with the sign of the Devil, and Gumby a
nervous wreck. <P>
Crisp and inviting art that perfectly matches the stories.<P>
$1 Each to
David Kelly, 1711 E. Olive Way, Suite 416, Seattle, WA 98102
(12 Pages/D/CWB)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Stick Family</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>This zine proves that one doesn't have to draw well to make a
funny comic. Actually this proves that one could be even be
completly artisticly talentless (though most artists tend to
think their work is brilliant no matter how primative it is).<P>
Very silly violence-filled stories. It sorta reminds me of Krazy
Kat with so many objects getting thrown at people's heads. Even
Rush Limbaugh makes an appearance. How can you tell it's him?
"Bla bla bla liberals, bla bla bla feminazis, bla bla bla
Hillary." <P>
2 stamps Each , Subs: $ 2.00 for 4 issues to
Tom , 606 Westford St, Lowel, MA 01851
(12 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Stinz: Old Man Out</B> Issue 1 Oct. 1994</DT>
Folksy fantasy comic by Donna Barr. Stinz the centaur decides to
compete in the "Old Man" harvest game but ends up losing to the
poor centaur girl Annerl. The second story is a meeting between
Stinz and a "two-legger" in which they discuss family relations
among the centaurs. Bits of the dialogue are in German,
fortunately with translations.<P>
$2.75 Each to
MU Press, 5014-D Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
(24 Pages/C/CWB)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Strange Growths</B> Issue 9 </DT>
<DD>Wonderful true-life comics reminicent of Lynda Barry both in
content and style. Stories about childhood, growing up, and
living on your own. <P>
After reading Jenny and Mark's work for a while I'm terribly
saddened to read how some stupid cop pulls them over for DWI,
siteing Mark for having only .1 which is only .02 over the limit.
On the lighter side she took some time off just to hang out.
Several other stories in here make for a wonderful comic. <P>
$1 Each to
Jenny Zervakis, 909 Lancaster St., Durham, NC 27701
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Strange Growths</B> Issue 10 </DT>
<DD>Wonderful true-life comics reminicent of Lynda Barry both in
content and style. Stories about childhood, growing up, and
living on your own. <P>
There's an enjoyable little story about getting philosophical
advice from bus driver. I also like the short pieces about the
strange happenings at the beach and feeling free about
dancing.<P>
$1 Each to
Jenny Zervakis, 909 Lancaster St., Durham, NC 27701
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Superfly</B>: by Mike Diana Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>The long-awaited new collection from convicted obscene
artist, Mike Diana. If you're interested in his work but never
saw it this might be a good place to start. It's a bit less
violent (only a bit) than some of his other work. What's nice is
seeing someone else publishing his work with a nice color cover
and professional printing.<P>
There's stories about the dark side of getting anything you wish
for, tripping out on LSD, and a bizarre piece about abuse in a
tourist trap. This first issue also features an anectdote about
Mike and an interview as well.<P>
$4 Each to
Shane Bugbee, Michael Hunt Publications, P.O. Box 226, Bensenville, IL 60106
(32 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Tales from Sleaze Castle</B> Issue 3 March '94</DT>
<DD>A fairly involved story about a group of women. There's a lot
going on in these 28 pages but it's a bit too much for me to take
in. The artwork is precise enough to tell the story but
experimental enough to give it a lot of life. They play music,
have accidents, get into arguments with street preachers, and
generally have a hoot of a good time. I can see how this would
appeal to fans of *Love and Rockets.*<P>
$4 Each , Subs: $ 7.00 for 2 issues to
Gratuitous Bunny Comix, 33 Windsor Drive, Cleadon, Sunderland Tyne & Wear,
SR6 7SY England
(28 Pages/C/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Catbox Room</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Lisa Maslowe is not what I call a technically precise comic
artist. I don't care cuz her stories more then make up for it.
Actually her drawing style works perfect with the stories she
writes. All about the insanity of livin' in the Haight and
workin' at a record shop. <P>
Finally, in the second issue we find out why she calls it "The
Catbox Room." As you might imagine, there's some wonderful
stories about cats. That's not all we also get some all-too-true
stories about childhood and a great long piece about the many
facests of credit cards.<P>
Loads of fun for everyone.<P>
$2 Each to
Lisa Maslowe, P.O. Box 170143, San Francisco, CA 94117
(40 Pages/HL/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Critic</B> Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>There used to be a great local comic freebie called *Harpoon*
featuring Kobayashi's The Critic. *Harpoon* is gone but The
Critic lives on in his quarterly comic zine.<P>
By now you've probably hear of the animated TV show The Critic.
By now it's bit the dust. Well, Kobayashi doesn't take it lying
down. He lashes out againt the producers of the show and the
cartoon character as well creating an enjoyable enraged dialoge.
Guest cartoonist is the wonderful Jamie Crespo with his Tales
from the Edge of Hell.<P>
If you're into the art scene, get it. If you despise the art
scene, definetely get it.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $ 7.00 for 4 issues to
Hugo Kobayashi, 1391 8th Ave. #3, San Francisco, CA 94122
(14 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Critic</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>Hugo Kobayashi creates a comic featuring one of the most
opinionated critics around. Thankfully Hugo (and his Critic) are
quite funny attacking everything from the art establishment to TV
shows.<P>
More political then usual with the Critic attacking polical art
and reactionary protesting with guest appearances by Nancy
Husari.<P>
If you're into the art scene, get it. If you despise the art
scene, definetely get it.<P>
$2 Each , Subs: $ 7.00 for 4 issues to
Hugo Kobayashi, 1391 8th Ave. #3, San Francisco, CA 94122
(15 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Hanging Tree</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>Besides doing *Destroy all Comics* and *Life Makes My Head
Hurt* and *No Hope*, Jeff started up this new collection
featuring works by him and several other local cartoonists. <P>
Jeff illustrated how difficult it's been for him to find a hat
that can hide his receding hair line with style; Dylan Williams
created a five-page biography of Hank Williams; and Chuck Sperry
documented the long tradition of end-of-the-world prophesies.<P>
$1 Each to
Jeff Levine, 1574 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94117
(20 Pages/S/RSF)
submissions OK/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Hood</B> Issue 1 October, 1994</DT>
Journey back to merry old England during the autumn of 1192,
during the time of King Richard. This is the period that
Jennifer Cooper and Tim Fischer set their new comix in and it is
a nice change of pace in a world filled of superhero and weird
Vertigo stuff. The art is well-suited for this period piece and
the action scenes are handled quite effectively, but the
backgrounds could use more background. However, don't think of
this as a drawback to a really well-done issue, because I am sure
this is one comix that is going to improve with time. These two
should be proud of their accomplishment, because not all first
issues turn out as well.<P>
$1.95 Each to
Ben & Miles Comics, PO Box 292561, Columbus, OH 43229
(28 Pages/S/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The K Chronicles</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>Keith has a strangely skewed view on life and is able to
portray that in his illustrations. But if that wasn't enough, he
jams massive amounts of hilarious text into his single-page
stories making each one a gem.<P>
Favorate stips in this fourth edition include analysis of
America's view on the World Cup, what earth quakes are all about,
and his personal history of hip hop.<P>
$1.50 + 2 stamps Each to
Keith Knight, P.O. Box 591794, San Francisco, CA 94159
(12 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Last Good Guy</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 August, 1994</DT>
In the year 2069, the earth is about to be destroyed by a meteor
within one year. Only the wealthy are able to afford the price
of going to one of the new Martian colonies. A Civil War breaks
out and one man tries to make right out of wrong. He is the last
good guy. Decent artwork, which shows quite a bit of promise.
The premise holds many possibilities, and it will be interesting
to see where he goes with this in the future.<P>
$1 Each to
John Kline, 4908 Mercier, Kansas City, MO 64112
(12 Pages/D/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Last Good Guy</B> Issue 4 January, 1995</DT>
In the year 2162, astronomers have said that the earth will be
destroyed by an enormous comet, with the only alternative being a
mass exodus to Mars. The only problem is that only the rich and
powerful can afford the trip, which plunges the planet into civil
war. From the chaos emerges a new hero, some say the last hero:
Abel. Thus is the premise behind this relatively new series,
from the hot and upcoming John Kline. It has been pretty
incredible to see how nuch John has improved in both story and
art over the past few issues and it is going to be real
interesting to see where he is in a year. This concept has
definite potential and you will certainly be hearing more of it
in the future.<P>
50 cents Each to
John Kline, Kline Comix, 264B Wolpers Hall, Columbia, MO 65201
(28 Pages/D/RON)
back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Night I Almost Met Shonen Knife</B> </DT>
Haven't heard from John in a while. Last thing I heard about was
the dishman comic from a few years ago. This one is all about his
obsession with Shonen Knife. It's a joyful story about what fans
they are of his work and how he almost got to meet them at a
concert in Toronto. Perfect for all you Shonen Knife fans out
there. <P>
The art is quite fun, with a vibrant style and a good structure.
<P>
to
John MacLeod, PO BOX 671, GUELPH, ON N1H 6L3 CANADA
(16 Pages/M/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Road Not Taken</B> </DT>
Good thing Jen Garrett and Gregg Davis don't live in Seattle. If
they did they'd probably be murdered for producing this comic
that boarders on grunge rock blasphemy. Instead of going after
the fallen king they take on Pearl Jam. It seems like a lot of
this book is based on actual research but wait till you get to
the part about Ringo's support group for individuals forced into
the shadows of annonimity. The real joy of the book is the
wonderful textural art full of humorous details. If you love
Pearl Jam or hate 'em check out this comic.<P>
$3 Each to
Jen Garrett, 208 Inn Circle, Fountain Inn, SC 29644
(16 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Saga of Happy Ned</B> Issue 1 Spring, 1994</DT>
Ned is your average good-natured, born-again Christian kind of
guy. Well, sort of. Ned carries Uzis, has a pet rabbit named
Spot, and likes to act like Rambo on occasion. This story was
originally published as a series of eight page mini-comics by
Colin Upton, but have since been collected into this marvelous
collection. Ned is clean-cut, kind, well-dressed, and too good
natured. You know, the kid who you always gave swirlies to in
grade school. Yet, underneath this cool exterior lies a far more
sinister persona. Or better, depending on how you look at it.
Ned likes to help old ladies cross the street and help others to
be born-again themselves, but the results are not what you would
expect. All of this combines into an enjoyable story with good
art that really makes this one above par.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Jabberwocky Graphix, PO Box 165246, Irving, TX 75016
(48 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Totally Unacceptable Alphabet</B> Vol 1 Issue 1 Summer,
1994</DT>
"A is for Arsenic, it cures the sick." No, this is not the
Addams Family alphabet primer for children, but it sure seems
like it. Put together by Daniel and Donna Barr, this mini goes
through the whole alphabet in this wicked sort of way. It will
leave you with an almost evil smile on your face, because it is
so devilishly good. High quality book all the way.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Brad Foster, Jabberwocky Graphix, PO Box 165246, Irving, TX 75016
(28 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>The Workingman's Disgruntle</B>: Comic Book Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>Like his other book *Dance to the Scalpel*, this is one sick
and twisted comic.<P>
Lot of people going on rampages and killing people.<P>
$2 Each to
James Calabrese, 90 Circuit Rd, Winthrop, MA 02152
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
submissions OK/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Things</B> </DT>
<DD>Brian compiles there surreal comics into these short books
that he gives away in Arizona. They sorta remind me of Blair
Wilson. <P>
He'll throw in a bunch of one-shots into the package.<P>
$2 + stamps Each , Subs: $10.00 for 10 issues to
Brian Marsland, 201 S. Roosevelt #108, Tempe, AZ 85281
(4 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Tiki Hell</B> </DT>
<DD>The latest book from Don featuring his famous Shmuck-o-Rat. I
like his varied style, with lots of white space, clean simple
characters, lots of drama, and interesting panels.<P>
An impressive new book from Mr. Fields. I just loved the page of
"failed apartment themes" in which he illustrates the extremes
that building contruction will go to make it seem exotic. How
about "Cassa De Barrito" or "Hawaiian Hootenanny." In attition to
the tiki hell bits we also get some funny Shmuck-o-Rat stories
and some zine reviews. Even better is his catalog which includes
the short section on "The evolution of a mini-comic." "Relatives,
'Don't get it.' Friends, 'Don't want it.' Distributors, 'Don't
need it.'" And the big response in *Factsheet Five*, "What the
HELL is this crap? How dare he send me this sack of dog puke?! No
trades/no life/no hope/submissions screw it. Price: your son."<P>
Send him your address to get on his catalog list.<P>
$1 cash Each to
Don Fields, The Printed Woid, P.O. Box 2471, Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Tiki Hell</B> Issue 1 September, 1994</DT>
Don Fields is back again and has brought back the ever fun
Shmuck-o Rat again for another outing. That's not all either!
Lots of fun gags and Fields' art style is so unique that you can
never have enough. Very humorous.<P>
$1.00 Each to
Don Fields, Po Box 2471, Redondo Beach, CA 90278
(24 Pages/D/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Time's Up</B>: By Patrick Lee Issue 1 </DT>
Patrick does personal comics that remind me a little of Joe Matt
--in fact he even draws himself (long hair, round glasses) to
look like Joe. But Patrick is a lot less neurotic. The personal
stories, about having a car towed when he was at a strip club,
about putting poison in a sandwich to punish a food thief, about
his likes and dislikes, are pretty charming, drawn in a simple,
readable way.<P>
$1.50 Each to
Patrick J. Lee, Airik Lee Productions, 10720 S. Lakewood Blvd. #335, Downey,
CA 90241-3555
(28 Pages/S/MLW)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Tread</B> Vol 1 Issue 2 April '94</DT>
<DD>Greg has a unique artistic style --actually several unique
artistic styles. He illustrates his comic stories with a style
that's primative and somewhat flat but also shading and detail
bringing out an intense feeling of anxiety. <P>
He also creates work in a second style that's very gray and
sketchy and very moody. The stories involve the pressure of
living and the fear of medical trauma. <P>
Interesting stuff.<P>
$2 Each to
Greg Vondruska, 316-B Stadium Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32304
(24 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Tread</B> Vol 1 Issue 5 April '94</DT>
<DD>Greg has a unique artistic style --actually several artistic
styles. He illustrates with a style that's primative but uses
shading to bring out an intense feeling of anxiety. <P>
This one, subtitled "Worker Bee," is an almost wordless story
about a weird underground society of bees.<P>
Interesting stuff.<P>
$3 or $4 Each to
Greg Vondruska, 316-B Stadium Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32304
(28 Pages/S/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>True Trivial Trauma</B> </DT>
<DD>I hope Jef's one-shot comic story finally exorcised him of a
trauma left over from second grade; the adult Jef on the back
cover looks just as distressed as the young Jef on the front
cover. Yes, an admittedly "trivial" occurrence, but one that's
apparently stuck with him into adulthood, so how trivial is it
really? A surprisingly short and simple true life story.<P>
$2.00 Each to
Jef Taylor, 140A Harvard Ave Box 308, Allston, MA 02134
(16 Pages/D/MIR)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Tuna Melt</B> Issue 9 </DT>
<DD>The occational comix compendium *Tuna Melt/Casserole* was
started back in 1988 by Tom Hart and Sam Henderson. Now published
by Sam and Marc Arsenault as a Wow Cool project that includes a
large number of cartoonist and styles.<P>
Tons of stuff in here in a wide range of styles --not
necessarily hilarious but certainly intriguing on an artistic
level. Most of the works fit on a single page so fliping through
this 80-page book is almost overwhelming with its dense chaos.<P>
$6 Each to
Marc Arsenault, Wow Cool, 48 Shattuck Sq. #149, Berkeley, CA 94704
(80 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Turd</B> Issue 4 </DT>
<DD>A new compilation series from the Trippen Cat crew. Those
folks certainly have a wide variety of styles.<P>
#3 had more stories about Popeye the Homophobe, meeting Mike
Diana's uncle, and lots of wierd charactures. #4 made me laugh
out loud with the *hillarious* comic about the range of emotions
felt as one sees their work reviewed in *Factsheet Five*. Well,
maybe *you* won't find it as funny as I did but I sure enjoyed
it. Other fave stuff in #4 includes the sketches from the jazz
fest, the piece about poetry night, and Ceasar Meadows's single
pages bits.<P>
Overall, very trippy.<P>
$1 + 2 stamps Each , Subs: $ 5.00 for 6 issues to
Burgin , Trippin Cat, 828 Royal St. #246, New Orleans, LA 70116-3115
(24 Pages/HL/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Twisted Sisters</B> Issue 2 </DT>
<DD>Diane Noomin is now editing a comic series devoted to women
cartoonists. Nice production and quite respectful to the
cartoonists as each cartoonists is given the space to really
stretch out.<P>
Carol Lay illustrated the difficulties in being God for a day;
There's a wonderful eight-page wordless love story from Krystine
Kryttre; Carol Swain wrote a pice that captured the heat of the
summer; and Penny Moran Van Horn explained what happens if you
pick the wrong guy up at a bar.<P>
$6.95 Each to
Kitchen Sink Press, 320 Riverside Drive, Northhampton, MA 01060
(40 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Underbelly</B> </DT>
<DD>Susan starts off her new book with a comic introduction to
her life. <P>
Most of it is devoted to the story of a dolphin that's also a
dectective but I liked the story about her relationship to body
fat.<P>
, Subs: $10.00 for 6 issues to
Susan Ferguson, #203-125 W. 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC V57 1R7 Canada
(20 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Underground Surrealist</B> Issue 1 </DT>
<DD>This new comix zine is produced by the same people that do
*Squawk*. It mostly features Mick's comics that chonicle the
adventures of Chicken Little, the beatnick chicken.<P>
There's also some submissions from other cartoonists, and a
report on London's rave scene.<P>
$3 Each to
Mick Cusimano, P.o. Box 2565, Cambridge, MA 02238
(33 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Useless Comics</B>: Not quite as useful as regular comics
Issue 9 </DT>
<DD>This book storta reminds me of *Love and Rockets* and *Hate.*
I would say he "ripped-off" Hernandez and Bagge but there are
some stylistic touches that seem somewhat fimilar. <P>
Either way, it's still an enjoyable book about gen-X culture,
dance clubs, hangin' out, dating, bowling, dish washing, and
space aliens. <P>
75 cents Each , Subs: $ 4.50 for 6 issues to
Jed Dougherty, 1917 San Pascual, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(0 Pages/D/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Utopia Unlimited</B> Issue 1 August, 1994</DT>
Charlie Wise has a way of drawing his figures that raises an
eyebrow or two. This sci-fi story in which a starship is trying
to obtain mineral rights from some planet, is filled with sex,
sex, and more sex. There I said it. Lots and lots of sex.
There I said it again. Sex isn't the only thing in this comix,
but also tons of humor. Almost as much humor as there is sex.
Almost, but not quite. I love Charlie's art style, in more ways
than one, and the story is very funny. Top job.<P>
$2.95 Each to
Palliard Press, 1309 4th Street S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55414-2029
(36 Pages/C/RON)
No trades/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Violatrix</B> Issue 1 Summer, 1994</DT>
Really a primer for bigger things to come. A bit short and
leaves one wanting more in both story and art. Still, what you
get is still worth it. The art is by Allan Angel, whose work has
always been near pro-level. Lately, he has been amazingly
getting much better at a rather fast clip. Incredibly detailed
artwork that really deserves to be seen in a larger format. The
story is by Christopher Erwin-Paris, who once again provides us
with another entertaining concept in his own unique style.
Violatrix is actually a victim of rape. Two years prior to the
story she was raped, went mute, and was never able to snap out of
it again. She looks rather harmless and defeseless, at least
that is what one of her doctors thought before he got too frisky.
This is one woman you do not wish to tick off, because she has
this other side of her, this Violatrix persona. As Violatrix,
she makes men wish they had never been born. This one is
non-stop superhero action.<P>
$1.00 Each to
Starlight Comics, , ,
(12 Pages/D/RON)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Vladimir Ilyich Ratt</B>: Political Animal </DT>
<DD>Conservative viewpoints are rare in the zine community.
Accordingly, conservative-oriented political caroons are also a
rarity. I've enjoyed and printed many of HL Demond's cartoons but
this is the first I've seen of his political work. Though not as
biting as John Bergstrom's work, these two collections do provide
a unique viewpoint into the world.<P>
$2 Each to
Henry L. Demond, Pandora's Box, P.O. Box 650166, Austin, TX 78765
(0 Pages/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Wandromedia</B>: Comics and Fiction Issue 5 </DT>
<DD>Expressive comics, and the ongoing saga of "Eva Destruction,"
who is now nursing her broken heart with margaritas and tarot in
Mexico.<P>
"Love At the Zoo", "Death At the Zoo" and "The Little Die-Ami"
are comics drawn kinda innocent, big and flowy -nice seeming
stories with a bite that sneaks up on you. Then there's J.
Davidson's "Reality Garbage," an intensely strange comic about -
well, Dad's screwing the kids and Mom is literally biting their
faces off, but that can't really express the minutely detailed
art, or the way that panels relate to each other, then disappear
on page 2. Wild. On a lighter note, this issue begins a series
of laundromat reviews, presumably in Minneapolis, and there are a
couple of other good comics.
<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 5.00 for 3 issues to
2617 3rd Ave. S, #6, Minneapolis, MN 55408
(20 Pages/S/MS)
No trades/submissions OK/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>When My Brother Was God</B> Issue 3 </DT>
<DD>This is a reprint of L.F. Pond's work from last year. You
might be fimilar with earlier editions of *WMBWG* or the other
comic, *Spin Equals Zero*. <P>
The story is really egaging, featuring people and situations that
are all very fimilar. The art is gritty and experimental but not
in a weird distracting way --in a unique fun way.<P>
$3 Each to
V. Hilligan, Hangnail Press, 3907 Piedmont Ave #10, Oakland, CA 94611
(41 Pages/HL/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>When My Brother Was God</B> Issue 4 September '94</DT>
<DD>The stories are really egaging, featuring people and
situations that are all very fimilar. The art is gritty and
experimental but not in a weird distracting way --in a unique
fun way.<P>
The story starts off with a philisophical discussion about the
moral implications of creating fake IDs to buy beer. The bulk of
the book is about a night playing Trivial Pursuit and all the
chatter that game typicaly generates.<P>
$3 Each to
V. Hilligan, Hangnail Press, 3907 Piedmont Ave #10, Oakland, CA 94611
(28 Pages/HL/RSF)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Willard Scott's Rock 'N Roll Report</B> Issue 2 Summer
'94</DT>
<DD>Like the other titles from Grunt Graphics, this is a wild
collection of vile, rude, grotesque, and obscene comix. It's
comix about the darker side of rock 'n roll, bad concerts,
traumatic experiences, and the stupidities of other people's
tastes in music.<P>
There's a great story about a bad experience seeing The Dead; a
tale of seeing The Waldos; the great time had at an Iggy Pop
concert; an overview of rock 'n roll hairdos; and my favorate
piece, the annoying people that pester record store employees.
<P>
All the regulars are here: Jay Young, Roy Clark, Bob X, and S.
Sturges. <P>
$2 ??? Each to
Jay Young, Grunt Graphics, P.O. Box 5782, Springfield, MO 65801
(0 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Windigo</B> </DT>
<DD>John's got a really interesting style. Sorta in the Chester
Brown/Ed Brubaker school but with more cross hatching.<P>
The first story is about a fustrated adolescent girl and the
second piece is about some dudes that hang out at recors shops
and stuff. These two main stories are expected to be long ongoing
dramas so I'm really interested in where John takes things. <P>
Check it out.<P>
$1 Each , Subs: $ 3.00 for 4 issues to
John A. Welsh, 105 Powdermill Rd, Morris Plains, NJ 07950-1419
(16 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Womp/Broken Picture Tube Theatre</B> Issue 1 October
'94</DT>
<DD>Eric works for Fantagraphics in a multitude of ways and also
produces these short minis. It's mostly just a series of comic
idea sketches but the art is strong enough to carry it. <P>
I like his *Broken Picture Tube Theature* stuff better with its
stories of the dark side of TV charaters. The issue of *Womp*
features a *BPTT* of Greg Brady getting high.<P>
75 cents Each to
Eric Reynolds, 6515 19th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98117
(8 Pages/D/RSF)
no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>World War 3 Illustrated</B> Issue 21 </DT>
<DD>I've been a big fan of *WW3* since practically its inception
in 1979. And yet, almost 15 years later, it's still going strong,
making socially-relevant comics that are entertaining,
sophisticated, and informative.<P>
You've heard my side of the Mike Diana saga, now you get a chance
to read Peter Kuper's side. He too flew down to Florida to be an
expert whitness in Mike's defense and illustrated a six-page
story of what happened down there. Additionally, there's also a
four-page interview with Mike about the outcome of the trial. The
rest of the issue explores the current wave of anti-crime
hysteria, with trascrips from Mumia Abu-Jamal's banned NPR radio
broadcasts, Seth Tobocman's piece about life in Tompkin's Square
Park, and Mac McGill's observations about guns in the 'hood.<P>
This is only scratching the surface of this excellent book. It's
a must-have. Available through Mordam.<P>
$4 Each to
World War 3 Illustrated, P.O. Box 20271, Peter Styvesan, New York, NY 10009
(100 Pages/S/RSF)
No trades/takes ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Wu Wei</B> Issue 10 June '94</DT>
<DD>Comics, art, and politics from the Lower East Side in New
York City. Gritty, grimy, and full of honest anger.<P>
The featured story here, No Ghosts, is a wonderful true piece
created with illustrations, layered texts, and photo
reproductions. It's the story of Jack Fear finding the lost
archives of his father, including all his attempts at becoming a
published writer. Don't miss Oscar's piece in *Duplex Planet
Illustrated* #9.<P>
I think the next issue of *Wu Wei* will be the last.<P>
$1.50 Each to
Oscar Stern, P.O. Box 1267, F.D.R. Station New York, NY 10022-1267
(22 Pages/S/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Wu Wei</B> Issue 11 September '94</DT>
<DD>Comics, art, literature, and politics from the Lower East
Side in New York City. <P>
This issue is more literary with lots of poetry and more
"illustrations" then "comix." Lots of different contributors but
I really enjoyed Oscar's rant about the Federal Reserve. Overal a
really ballaced package captureing the true spirit of New
York.<P>
This is the last "zine" issue of *Wu Wei*. The next issue will
look more like a regular comic book and be available
everywhere.<P>
$2 Each to
Oscar Stern, P.O. Box 1267, F.D.R. Station New York, NY 10022-1267
(22 Pages/S/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Ye Magical Knight</B> Vol 1 Issue 4 April, 1994</DT>
Mark Bratton is a relatively new talent in the small press scene,
and someone who I have been following rather voraciously. This
book presents a unique twist of the Arthurian mythos, telling new
stories set in the future. This issue we have the final battle
between the hero Angus and the evil Modred.<P>
Mark's quirky art style is unique and shows much promise for the
future.<P>
50 cents Each to
Mark Bratton, 9911 US Hwy 41 S., Gibonston, FL 33634
(30 Pages/M/RON)
No trades/back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>Ye Magical Knight</B> Issue 5 September, 1994</DT>
Knight Angus McGee, having recently been brought back from the
dead, has just finished battling the evil Modred. Now, what's a
warrior to do now that the bad guys have been defeated? This
issue begins a new storyline and is an excellent starting point
for new readers. Centered in the Arthurian mythos, with Merlin
playing a pivotal role, this issue answers many questions and
opens a realm of new possibilities and adventures for Angus and
company. Mark is still improving with a very nice cover design
for this issue. I think his stuff demands a bigger format
because of his detailed artowrk. He should also consider getting
himself an editor and cleaning up his grammar a bit. Still, I
find his stuff really appealing and it is very obvious how much
he has improved over the course of this series.<P>
$1.00 Each to
Mark Bratton, 9911 US Hwy 41 S, Gibsonton, FL 33534
(16 Pages/RON)
back issues/no ads.<P>
<DT> <B>dirty hands</B> Issue 5 January '94</DT>
<DD>Thoughtful short pieces drawn in a stark frozen style that
made me feel as though Jerry was right here, showing me snapshots
while he told me his tales. <P>
He told us about a strange religious paraphanalia shop, the
cactus along the highway, and when he worked as a janitor.<P>
3 stamps Each to
Jerry Sims, P.O. Box 1604, Huntington Beach, CA 92647-1604
(8 Pages/D/RSF)
back issues/no ads.<P>
</DL>