Jake Palermo Comic Reviews

Aerobicide Rad One-Shot makes 80s pop culture look so cheesy, readers will love the pure stupidity of it all.

America Chavez #1 opens the series with a period of interest where Chavez's superhero life becomes secondary to the undiscovered parts of her.

Ant #12 marks the return of a character for a new storyline without too much past burdens.

Ant-Man #5 wraps a series about intergenerational bonding by taking the time to listen to others.

Aria Heavenly Creatures marks the return of a cult classic by pruning off a weak link in order to bring back the magic.

Armorclads #1 engages readers by creating an empathetic link with enslaved people as the threats to them mount up.

Batman Annual #5 highlights the paradoxes of Batman and the ability to live in the same as him. When rules seem to change on a whim, Stokoe's artwork brings both catharsis and genuine hope.

Batman/Superman #16 shows off the World's Finest in a manner that tributes their golden age. From the Fleischer cartoons to the Adam West Batman, there's no one way to enjoy this debut.

Batman Detective #1 starts off a series that will make readers love or hate Batman as much as Bruce Wayne does.

Bermuda #2 shows off the vast colorful world with ridable iguanas, pirates, fish people, and blink and you'll miss moments that will make the setting twice as memorable.

In this series' penultimate issue, the only mature character gets a backstory for the reader to imagine his falling out with his old party. Because with the finale coming, something needs to happen for readers to remember him.

Blackhand Ironhead tells a familiar capepunk story revolving around how entitlement goes to people's heads. Especially when despite all the good they do, trying to hide the bad all but makes them a supervillain.

Bleed Them Dry #1 is the beginning of an intriguing story about a cyberpunk world that sucks the reader in with impressive visuals, coloring that tells the themes, and a setting that gets readers hooked on what might happen next.

Bleed Them Dry #2 changes the series' direction in ways that are both character based and have the reader invest in the worldbuilding.

Bleed Them Dry #1 is the beginning of an intriguing story about a cyberpunk world that sucks the reader in with impressive visuals, coloring that tells the themes, and a setting that gets readers hooked on what might happen next.

Bloodshot #0 delivers a genuinely melancholic series that defines what's missing in most of Tim Seeley's run.

If Bloodshot #6 is what people are expecting the Bloodshot movie's second act to be, I hope the filmmakers can prove expectations wrong.

The new arc beginning in Bloodshot #7 ditches wordy pin-ups for more streamlined artwork. The story meanwhile shows both of its highs with an antagonist and lows with Bloodshot's brooding.

Bloodshot #9 ends the Burned Arc with a disappointingly plot-holed mess.

Bloodshot #11 is an over-the-top action film that is relevant, with a great visual layout by Pedro Andreo.

The Queen returns in a bold way as she satirizes not only Donald Trump but also representatives of cultural kayfabe.

Bomb Queen: Trump Card #2 requires a little tolerance to first impressions to understand the subtext surrounding the Queen's actions. When that's done, there's surprisingly decent satire.

Bomb Queen Trump Card #3 is an issue that requires a bit of tolerance to fully grasp the situation. Which involves an intrigue plot that displays the title character's ability to stay on top of things.

Bomb Queen Trump Card ends much like it begins... giving no scores to people who follow or criticize it. The fourth issue just closes out to do what it wants.

BRZRKR #1 starts off a huge surprise with how it's a satirical take on Keanu Reeves' recent career.

Legends aren't notable for being exaggerations of stories that existed, Canto II #3 displays that it's the actions people take to make their decisions memorable.

Children of the Grave #2 builds tensions even higher by showing how cults hold power over people.

King-Size Conan is a celebration of Marvel's first issue with the Cimmerian. With notable creators showcasing the different sides of him and how they make up Conan, it's a must for diehard and newcomers alike.

Avengers: Curse of the Man-Thing utilizes the horror elements of its titular monster to create a unique experience similar to a crossover event without the baggage.

Amazing Spider-Man: Curse of the Man-Thing #1 gives a dynamic to protagonist Ted Sallis to work with in order to complete his character arc.

X-Men: Curse of the Man-Thing #1 completes the development of Ted Sallis in a satisfying manner.

Dead Dog's Bite combines the surreal state being in the Twilight Zone with the self-conscious state of adolescence for a memorable time.

Defenders #1 makes a great first impression in terms of showing off its POV character, Doctor Strange, and how dire the full series plot will be with its pacing.

From the grand sense of scale from Rodriguez's art to Ewing's characterizations of the growing cast, it feels like a proper followup to the legacy of Jack Kirby.

Defenders #3 immerses readers through its narrator Harpy going with the flow and showing how comic books are like magic spells.

Defenders #4 breaks the mold by interacting with the primordial essence of comic books to invigorate readers with a sense of inspiration.

Delicacy provides passionate detail into how a person's work as art can lead into delusional judgments.

Demon Days X-Men is an artistic Marvel, it just needs to focus more on the nature of coexistence than trying to do too much.

So while the set-up to this story is very similar to what's come before in books like Marvel's Sentry, it has potential. At the very least, the artists working on this are good enough for the reader to pick up the series. Because with the energy and emotion going through some of the panels, it's hard not to look away. The readers who stick around might be in for a good surprise.

Doctor Tomorrow #2 is shaping up to be a good story. Along with a tale of heroics is a mystery that the reader can catch onto without backpedaling. Not only that, but how it can come to pass when the characters interact.

A rushed if justified plot development that reveals a subtle context on the plot. Just enough to reveal the context of every person who goes by Doctor Tomorrow.

After a number of issues rushing the series, Doctor Tomorrow #4 gives the main character some much needed down time to develop. The hero's journey comes full circle for a return ready for a grand finale.

A fitting if predictable end to a series that emphasizes self-reflection to become a better hero.

The Eternals see the world and time differently than we do in Eternals #2, and that's what makes them so grand in scale. For these gods, the present and future are one and the same.

Fantastic Four Road Trip is the kind of one-shot that allows readers to take a break from all of the bustle of the main stories. It's a chance for artists to get creative while remaining loosely connected to other comics and staying true to Marvel's First Family.

Fantastic Four Antithesis #4 completes an evocative and nostalgic mini-series showing the Fantastic Four at its best.

Fear Case #1 brings readers further down the rabbit hole of Matt Kindt and the Jenkins by weaponizing an idea of pulp fiction and how it threatens this story's main characters. Because the effort to make these buddy cop (agents?) feel like people is phenomenal.

Fear Case #2 demonstrates the narrative strength of a MacGuffin by making it a piece of Lovecraftian horror.

Fear Case #3 brings the miniseries to its climax where the characters and the conflict that threatened them collides.

Fear Case #4 ends the series the way everybody expects it would, by having the reader experience the dread associated with conspiracies.

Finger Guns isn't just a series about power fantasies. It's an expression of how comics can project feelings onto the reader.

Fire Power is more than just another martial arts series, it's reminding readers that martial arts aren't just para-mystical flashy moves.

Frank at Home on the Farm #2 is a display of how horror thrillers show their strengths in sympathy and empathy. Fill them with wholesomeness first only to give them whiplash at the though of losing it all.

The House of El depicts a future where the legacy of Superman reaches its pinnacle. The cosmic scale across the DC universe shows the power and influence the names of Superman hold. It's probably one of the few titles that genuinely tribute the Man of Steel beyond his humanity.

Future tells the story of hopelessness and how memories of better times give people the strength to live through it.

Generations Forged shows off the parts of DC's history that gets forgotten in ways to put them into the spotlight. With the many creatives at the helm, it's how they all manage to build off one another that makes a memorable story.

Saltares gives a fittingly hellish aesthetic to Ghost Rider Return of Vengeance #1. Just the new design of Vengeance displays the overall menace. The spiky armor with no chains or leather presents him as a direct product of Hell. There are no ties back to the main Ghost Riders, only a fury that goes in every possible direction.

The optimistic potential of a superhero passion project is a process of going through growing pains. Depending on how things turn out, the UK could have their own superhero niche.

With a new reader friendly protagonist, a setting that befits his internal conflict, and some sublime artwork, The Harbinger #1 makes a grand first impression.

The Harbinger #2 gets bigger with an intriguing plot and the artwork showing off the difference between great power and the strength to stand against it.

The Harbinger #3 is where this series shines as a beacon for various points of storytelling potential. With a character readers are rooting for and a challenge on the horizon, this series is ready to go into high gear.

The Harbinger #4 offers a compelling look into the minds of the hero and villain, and how their dynamic will push the series forward.

The Harbinger #5 gives a compelling challenge to its title character in presenting and dealing with his character flaws.

It's nice to see Faith's dynamic with Peter in Harbinger #6 even if it goes a little slow.

Heroes At Home showcases Marvel heroes in distinctive and in character ways that also make fun of them.

I don't know how many musicians can collaborate with such skilled creatives for work that can give people so many sensations. But Don Diablo and his crew have done just that. So get ready for a series that will make your 80s nostalgia sense explode, because there's a whole lot more coming. What do you all think? Leave your thoughts in the comments.

Hexagon #2 is the end of act 1 by setting up the plot. As the creative crew readies for the next level, the reader will have everything they need to see this act through. Even if people don't understand the references, they can at the least see how entertaining playing them out is. Because as fun as the last issue was, it's time for the real show to begin.

Hot Brass: Pharaoh's Gold is pure camp, nothing but the creators and characters having a good time. Because who wouldn't have fun with cowboys and mummies?

Immortal Hulk #34 gives the classic Hulk villain, the Leader some much needed development for his climatic return to series.

Within this issue is a chance to see a part of the Marvel Universe between heroics and magic. With plenty of martial arts action to go around, a plot of intrigue is boiling to the surface.

Iron Fist Heart of the Dragon #2 manifests the Wuxia elements of Marvel in all of their glory.

Iron Fist Heart of the Dragon #3 goes all in on the absurdities of the Marvel Universe. With all of the doom and gloom, the world turns as much as it always has.

Ever wonder what Ultraman would be like from the perspective of a substance abuser? Jenny Zero #1 can give you an idea.

King In Black: Ghost Rider completes the Ed Brisson Ghost Rider saga after several delays; and it feels pretty good despite some of the bad undertones.

King in Black: Planet of the Symbiotes #1 is best for readers familiar with related material. Both segments are major developments, but it requires background information to appreciate fully. Since the Ravencroft story seems to be leading into the main Venom run, readers will probably be confused by Plague's appearance. Some fans might even require knowledge of the original Planet of the Symbiotes to see how this series stands out. Otherwise, this issue is just okay.

King In Black #2 is a piece that gives C and D-Listers of Marvel with barely any ties to the main plot a chance to really shine for more developments.

In the dire situation of King In Black features a good story about an ensemble of supervillains trying to keep control in what may serve as a climax to the event.

Lightning Marval #1 brings out hijinks for everybody to enjoy the funny side of superheroes.

With still having room to grow Like Father, Like Daughter #5 goes for an intriguing plot where some twists and developments could change everything.

Non-Stop Spider-Man #1 is a creative exercise in the energy and characterization of the Wall-Crawler.

Lost Soldiers #3 combines high octane action and post-war melancholy with orchestral imagery that would be perfect if played with the appropriate music in the background.

Lost Soldiers #4 shows how far the protagonist has come and how much distance has been made between him and the reader. Because by this point, the reader knows this design has nothing to gain but deadly silence.

Lost Soldiers #5 ends the miniseries on the somber note of the tragedy of post-war trauma.

MODOK Head Games #1 gives character to one of Marvel's more unusual villains by forcing him to confront an inner turmoil.

Man-Bat #2 makes itself stand on its own feet with a narrative that goes into what arc Kirk Langstrom has to go through.

Man-Bat #3 goes right into the heart of the series protagonists' conflict and how it affects him psychologically.

Man-Bat #4 demonstrates the power the central villain has over the Langstroms and how he brings out the worst in everyone.

Man-Bat #5 ends a compelling narrative on a bittersweet note when it comes to the uncertainties of where it will take Kirk Langstrom.

Marvel Voices Indigenous Voices #1 is a chance to get to see characters view their cultural backgrounds. Thanks in no small part to the numerous indigenous creatives involved in the creative process

Mawth Valliis genuinely looks like it came from Mars, complete with language, machines designs, and a conflict that seems to defy sense.

Midnight Sky #7 does its central conflict right by showcasing the emotions expressed by characters and the stakes that they face. Enough to inspire empathy amongst readers.

In all circumstances, Nicnevin and the Bloody Queen is best for people familiar with folk horror. The characters can be pretty forgettable, especially when they make adolescence feel cheap. None of them feel like they need care unless the plot demands it. Which is a shame because the artwork evokes feelings of both beauty and terror.

Ninjak #1 makes the reader feel the tension the plot brings so that Ninjak can be the hero they need.

Ninjak #2 plays to comics strengths in both pacing and showcasing information the capabilities and powers of its main characters.

While a little slower thanks to some exposition on the supporting character's part, Javier Pulido instills NINJAK #3 some emotionally overwhelming exposition about the series villains Daylight.

Despite a sudden change in art, Ninjak #4 leaves us wanting more as the first arc wraps up.

Nottingham #1 could be the beginning of an interesting take on the story of Robin Hood, if the reader can take on grimdark fantasies.

Nottingham #6 offers an intriguing new direction for the casts as layers of alliances are tested.

Nottingham #7 mounts an ever engrossing tension as the wait for a backstabbing is on the horizon.

Olympia #5 is the grand finale to a series in dedication to what and who Curt Pires loves.

Onion Skin captures the essence of being a wayward adult with compelling characters and an innovative way to introduce a non-linear story.

Orphan and the Five Beasts #1 tributes kung fu classics with all of the absurd energy associated with it.

Orphan and the Five Beasts #2 demonstrates the difficulty of finding fulfillment after completing a necessary task. Once the battle is over, what can be done to prevent mistakes aren't repeated?

With Lightspeed serving as the reader's guide through this issue, the Power Pack show that even when things get rough, their prior experience pulls them through.

A spin-off shows that Boom Studios! Power Rangers isn't quite finished with the legacy of its iconic villain; and it's as menacing as ever.

Project 45 #1 serves as a bit of a rough introduction to a new series and publisher but one that goes out of its way to show its inspirations.

Rai #3 requires a little background knowledge to fully appreciate but it can serve as a jumping on point with that Fallen World background knowledge.

The stakes of are boiling in this issue of Dan Abnett's futuristic epic.

Every piece of Dan Abnett's epic future story counts. Readers just need to enjoy as much as they possibly can.

Rai #6 begins a new arc involving a side quest that adds atmosphere to a potential new development for the title character.

Rai #7 is a display of doing good despite an ever-looming threat. Helping others during bad times might not be too beneficial, but it does pay in the long run, especially when the next issue is about to go into threats on two fronts. One that's important to Rai's quest, and the other being Spylocke and Bloodshot doing their part.

Rai #8 brings readers into an intense situation that can lure them in to keep them on their toes. But it's also a time of taking a major step forward.

RAI #10 concludes with a conflict ready to brew over into an even greater world " one that the cyborg ronin might be willing to accept.

Reptil #4 closes out this mini-series on a compelling depiction of empowerment via Mexican Pride. The way the art communicates with both the characters and the reader make this series something to remember.

Roku #4 is the finale to a series that tries too hard to recreate past success and becomes a great big mess.

A basic start to what hopefully can be a good series.

Savage #1 puts a new spin on the fish-out-of-water scenario by going into how inauthentic internet influencer life can be. All of this really brings out the desire to be wild and free.

Savage #2 puts the reader into the head of a deadly if very self-conscious teenager. If we were him we'd want out of the insanity Kevin finds himself in too.

Savage #3 presents the awkward teen phases in absurd yet fun ways.

Savage #4 ends the series in the most absurd way possible, making two self-aware awkward teens fumble their way through slapstick actions.

Savage Dragon's new jumping on point introduces a new character who embodies both returning and new fans in a classic romp.

Scout's Honor #3 approaches its climax with Kit displaying her aptitude and fortitude against the hard truths of what inspired her.

Scout's Honor #4 brings every threat and value from previous issues to the surface. With it comes a powerful depiction of having personal values tested.

Scout's Honor #5 completes the arc of its compelling protagonist by bringing back a sense of hope for other characters to follow in a new status quo.

Shadow Service #1 is where a Noir setting gives way to a spy story. But it's unknown who to root for at this time as nothing seems to be in control.

Shadowman #1 starts off nice and easy by showing off the title character's wants and his job before the plot actually starts.

Shadowman #2 has the reader enticed by Shadowman's role in the grand scheme of the series. Because they can't help but feel worried that he's being pulled around.

Shadowman #3 gives a little exposition on a part of Valiant's more unique magic system; by showing off the strengths, weaknesses, and how it ties into the overall plot.

Shadowman #4 gets an intense look at what the title character faces through some spreads. It encourages looking back on previous issues so that readers can steel themselves for this issue's content.

Shadowman #5 reopens the series on an overwhelming note with grotesque spirits and human connections about to go to war.

Shadowman #6 goes into how serious a threat the Deadside actually is, an unstoppable force already winning a war.

Shadowman #7 enthralls readers with a sense of dread before it cleverly replaces it with a hopeful comeback.

Shang-Chi #1 starts the series off by playing the legend surrounding him. It looks and sounds great on paper but to Shang-Chi himself, it's a burden he takes in stride.

Sleeping Beauties #1 has the perfect outline for a best selling comic. But that doesn't mean it's of high creative quality.

While the story of Something is Killing the Children #8 requires background knowledge, it is worth a growing story about moral boundaries.

The intensity and dread is on full display in Something Is Killing The Children #9, so check it out for some character moments that accompany the terror.

A new arc with a new artist begins a potentially good story of Spawn, provided you wait for the big moments in the next issue.

Speed Republic #1 begins a pretty enticing noirish tale where a chance to escape the dourness looks more like an addiction.

Spider-Ham is a decent jumping in point for a good laugh, all while making sure the parodies can give way to tributes.

Strange Academy #3 lives up to its name by showing the uniqueness of some of its characters.

Suicide Jockeys #1 presents a situation that many people would want to indulge in: not just to pilot an impressive mecha, but to find a part of time where things went wrong and fix it.

Superman Red and Blue #1 gives new and old readers a chance to look into the many layers of Superman's humanity. No matter the era

After Realm #2 tells the origin of the main character in a colorfully expressive backstory. One that might make a reader consider reading more about Norse comics from Oeming and Walt Simonson.

The Department of Truth #1 is the beginning of probably one of the most acclaimed series of the year. One that the reader will be compelled to look through again and again because one read through will never be enough.

The Last Session captures the appeals of TTRPGs through its characterizations, the organically developing plot, and the complications of creative self-expression.

Marked #6 begins a new chapter delving into the character arcs of people who influence the present.

The Pull releases at a crucial time; between all of the flashy action, the fantastic cyberpunk world, an overarching cosmic horror, are characters genuinely trying to help everyone as much as they can. However how can everyone help one another when all they do is factionalize?

Recount #2 channels today's political outrage in a way that feels extremely close to home.

This series earns the right to how it quick flies off the shelves. There's a dual narrative about the title character's power and the motivations behind them. It's all presented in a way that makes it all so compelling.

The Unthinkables #1 does its name right by taking inspiration to tribute who and what it loves about superheroes.

The Visitor #2 remakes a character from old in a new but ultimately slow paced way.

Some great art by MJ Kim won't save The Visitor #3 commits from a sudden romantic subplot.

The Visitor #4 is the issue where the plot finally starts to pick up after a lot of backpedaling. While it's nice to see the plot move forward, it's also a reminder that the series took a very long time to get to this point. So if you want to finish this series to see where it's going, all the better. But if you're a first-timer to this series, it might be best to pick and choose where you go.

The Visitor #5 will make or break the series by finally giving the reader some answers on character motivations.

The Visitor #6 ends the series on a rather hollow note. If anything, it leaves reader with questions that may not get answered.

Thor and Loki: Double Trouble #1 brings out a fun little venture about Asgard's favorite sibling rivalry.

U.S.Agent #2 adds an intense family drama to a situation with more intrigue.

U.S. Agent #3 dives right into the central conflict after some great build up

A classic issue featuring two stories which introduce characters who change and become more complex as the moods shift.

Usagi Yojimbo Color Classics #7 closes out the first issues of the initial series in a colorful cinematic fashion.

Water Woman has the potential for great storytelling through dynamic CGI liquid.

We Only Find Them When They're Dead #1 begins a story about finding meaning after the passing of something important. Because you never know what those connections can inspire.

Widowmakers #1 gives readers a look into the motivations, beliefs, and abilities of some co-stars of Black Widow.

WOLVENHEART #8 through its impressive story structure and layouts gets readers invested in a fresh start to a continuing saga. All without isolating returning readers.

Wolverine Black, White, & Blood #2 pushes Logan away from his more grim side to display his strong sense of loyalty by famous creatives.

World Class has all the suspense and excitement of a sports biopic with its pacing, angles, and visual flair.

X of Swords Destruction closes out this event by completing Apocalypse's character arc. An arc that shows a more humble lover ready to support his colleagues. Even if he does steal the show from the rest of the cast and distract the reader with plot holes.

X of Swords Stasis gives everybody a chance to catch up on what's at stake to fully appreciate the conflicts that go into the overall story.

X-Men #13 is a part of a larger whole that gives readers a character defining experience for Apocalypse. No longer just a symbolic survival of the fittest character, but one about fulfilling the expectations of himself and the people he loves the most.

X-O Manowar #3 dives straight into the difficulties of compromises in a well written one issue story that makes clever usage of foreshadowing in plot outline.

X-O Manowar #4 takes the time to empathize and communicate with its readers to the point where the reader feels like they play an important part of the story. They genuinely feel the excitement, anticipation, and frustrations that come off the pages. The plot points and moods never feel like hand holding, just different points-of-view that the reader jumps into. Every character and artist brings out their best to reach out to the general audience, creating an experience where everyone is a piece of a bigger picture.

X-O Manowar #5 kicks off a new story-arc after a long break. The action and suspense on display continues to be a sight to behold.

X-O Manowar #6 unleashes a most gripping plot twist. This new direction is so well developed and foreshadowed, the reader feels like they're in on the plot.

X-O Manowar #7 brings this series to a big climax. After much anticipation surrounding a character fans grew to enjoy, the payoff of his arc is more than satisfying.

As the climax of X-O Manowar arrives, this issue gives some much needed emotionally compelling context to drive them towards next issue's thrilling conclusion.

X-O Manowar #9 ends this run by bringing together everything readers loved about the run, the characters and dynamics.