tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48318576226718231752024-03-18T20:22:48.544-07:00THE SIGNALYour Source For All Our Geek Obsessions — Comics, Movies, Games, Music & More!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-80127149894501264392012-09-04T15:26:00.007-07:002012-09-04T15:26:53.527-07:00WE HAVE MOVED!<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">We have moved The Signal </span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">to a new home. </span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Check us out at</i> <a href="http://www.thesignalonline.net/">www.thesignalonline.net</a></span></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-75260548847920410452012-08-30T19:13:00.005-07:002012-08-30T19:13:45.889-07:00MUSIC: Shows for Aug. 31-Sept. 4<br />
<ul><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhVlMVu7avXsS-mwhZL3uMxbJ6etDiY5XTtSH71JDZOkX3m5avanOo0-koCnVggqC4USgjt821_Z2njoUavKXpBk7FoyUEnlnkREoAYp48ejzup3gQ3TsItliGykXs8EKBhTwzyTEVSU/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhVlMVu7avXsS-mwhZL3uMxbJ6etDiY5XTtSH71JDZOkX3m5avanOo0-koCnVggqC4USgjt821_Z2njoUavKXpBk7FoyUEnlnkREoAYp48ejzup3gQ3TsItliGykXs8EKBhTwzyTEVSU/s320/Picture+1.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kill Devil Hill (from <a href="http://killdevilhillmusic.com/">killdevilhillmusic.com</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>By Dionysis</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />Check out the wide variety of
excellent live music events in Virginia, North Carolina and
Tennessee this weekend, plus Heavy Metal "All-Star" band
Kill Devil Hill performs at Ziggy's in Winston-Salem next Tuesday
with local groups!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />Upcoming shows for Aug. 31-Sept.
4 include:</div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><b>Friday, Aug. 31</b><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• Heavy Metal Show at Coffin House
Studios featuring Doom Syndicate, Cult of Dionysis, Annabell Leigh
and more — Roanoke,
Va.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/1201310523341595/">www.facebook.com/events/1201310523341595/</a><br /><br />• Catawba
Farm Fest featuring Badunkafunk and more — Catawba,
Va.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/320593251334803/">www.facebook.com/events/320593251334803/</a><br /><br />• Rainbow
Forest Baptist Church Event featuring The Altar and more —
Troutville, Va.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/115529621925141/">www.facebook.com/events/115529621925141/</a><br /><br />•
A Light Divided's 5th Anniversary Show featuring A Light Divided
and more — Greensboro,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/398520080197324/">www.facebook.com/events/398520080197324/</a><br /><br />•
Birthday Bash featuring Crimson Countess and more — Greensboro,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/424525380922069/">www.facebook.com/events/424525380922069/</a><br /><br />• 3QD
Video Release Party featuring 3 Quarters Dead and more —
Winston-Salem,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/164055233731657/">www.facebook.com/events/164055233731657/</a><br /><br /><b>Saturday,
Sept. 1</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• MetalSucks presents Kataklysm with Fleshgod,
Apocalypse, Vital Remains, Spine Extraction and more — Charlotte,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/321504894611002/">www.facebook.com/events/321504894611002/</a><br /><br />• Metal
Mayhem at Easy Street featuring Mindjakked, White Knuckle Black Out
and more — Thomasville,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/342939982461759/">www.facebook.com/events/342939982461759/</a><br /><br />• Platnum
Huzzy & Iron Dragon at Club Big Boyz — Elkin,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/396116420435692/">www.facebook.com/events/396116420435692/</a><br /><br />• Metal
Music @ Schmucks featuring The Saga of Charon and more — Johnson City,
Tenn.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/342863785801592/" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/events/342863785801592/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /><b>Tuesday,
Sept 4</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• Kill Devil Hill (ex-members of Pantera, Dio, Black
Sabbath, Wasp) at Ziggy's, with Thru World Aggression, White
Knuckle Black Out and more — Winston-Salem,
N.C.<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/326720667416722/">www.facebook.com/events/326720667416722/</a></div>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-2765246803069199122012-08-29T13:52:00.001-07:002012-08-29T13:55:48.723-07:00COMICS: Recommended Reading: 8/29/12<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDpDdn-NgN86CrlwykrxLFAkLe-f0GVjQphrtpLldZ-UAv2q3gUjnoZMGZT-eK1HbSYtxyY1NU95mQfzmuwuHjYU3Zuy8IF76P2KOlZnkHpVKldiwvK_BE5btoRZOmcWqBTvNKVxRFcU/s1600/bprd21588.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDpDdn-NgN86CrlwykrxLFAkLe-f0GVjQphrtpLldZ-UAv2q3gUjnoZMGZT-eK1HbSYtxyY1NU95mQfzmuwuHjYU3Zuy8IF76P2KOlZnkHpVKldiwvK_BE5btoRZOmcWqBTvNKVxRFcU/s320/bprd21588.jpeg" width="208" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth — </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Return of the Master #1</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(Mike Mignola variant cover)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>By Darrell Burris</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>D&J Hobby Center</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This week's <b>B.P.R.D. Hell
On Earth — The Return Of The Master #1</b> continues the long-running
“it's the end of the world as we know it” story.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The world continues to
reel in the aftershocks of the war of frogs and the returning of the
ancients. The BPRD fights on all fronts joined by the world's armed
forces.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In this issue a rogue
scientist from Russia (it's always the Russians, ain't it?) builds a
doomsday cult in the mountains in an attempt to add to the
devastation causing havoc across the Earth.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Mass Effect: Homeworlds #4</b>
features our favorite blue girl from the game, Liara T'Soni, and
gives her back story. A must for any fan of the incredible game.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Detective Comics Annual
#1</b>. BATMAN vs. THE BLACK MASK.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Well, that pretty much
says it all right there.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We finally get the
throwdown many of us have been waiting for, as well as the first in
the series of new annuals for the DC NEW 52.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In <b>Green Lantern Annual
#1</b>, its the fate of the original Black Lantern and the effects of
this book will span the Corps and change it all again.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Justice League #12</b>
features a superhero team-up of a different sort, with a hookup
between Superman and Wonder Woman. It also follows the JLA in the
continuing story of the origins of the NEW 52's Shazam. This book
continues to deliver some of the best JLA stories in years and is a
constant great seller at the shop.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Lone Ranger: Snake Of Iron
#2</b> continues one of the best Western comics to come along in years.
For fans of great Western tales, not to mention the original dynamic
duo of the Lone Ranger and Tonto, this is the story of the Lone
Ranger outnumber and outgunned by deadly outlaws as he tries to reach
his friend Tonto, who is stranded on a snow bound train with his own
deadly foes to face.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
For those of you fearing
corny characters and storytelling ,let me tell you that you will not
find that here. You can't get more dire or serious a western tale
than these books can deliver. This is the famous duo set in the REAL
world of the Old West — violent, desperate and gritty.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Godzilla #4</b> brings us the
Titanosaurus! In the aftermath of the destruction of the old Earth,
the remnants of humanity continue the fight and the survival of a new
and terrifying world dominated by the most powerful of monsters. Can
the hand-picked team of specialists continue to battle and capture
these behemoths?
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A desperate plan leads to
a dangerous and fateful decision, as well as an answer that humanity
may not be prepared to learn. Why have they come back?
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Two beloved franchises
merge in <b>Star Trek: The Next Generation/Doctor Who Assimilation #2.</b>
The Cyber Men and the Borg continue their onslaught across time and
space. Can The Doctor convince Captain Picard to allow him to help,
or will the alliance bring more damage than the foes they face?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It's an excellent read and
a true geek freak out for Whovians and Trekkies.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In <b>Skullkickers #17</b>, the
boats a-sink'n, the monsters are a-comin' and all around the lads are
great-looking pirate women under the control of a deviant mental
tenticle monster from another dimension.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Sure, this sounds bad —
but it can always get worse. Come and get the funniest and most
original book on the rack. Skullkickers is an amazing read and a joy
to anyone who picks up a copy. I promise you'll laugh and most likely
piss yourself.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you're a fan of
adventure, dungeons, dragons, buxom lasses and pixies bent on world
domination, then Skullkickers is for you.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Uncanny X-Force</b> continues
to be possibly the best X title in the Marvel Universe. It promises
to surprise and never disappoints its readers.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In issue #30, after the
temporal mishap leads the team to a future that even they could have
never imagined, they now return to finish what they started. But are
they condemned to the fate of this future and at what price can the
future of mutants be willing to pay?
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Go out and enjoy a comic
this week — hopefully from my shop!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Till next week!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-50812615159364109362012-08-24T10:16:00.002-07:002012-08-24T10:16:58.574-07:00GAMES: PureSteam RPG playtest coming soon<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4WRA3rVcgF_xJp_2K933HoF6EB048uGSvfClaZrLHrwjLrCJRocjUv_FC2VCvJUjRo8aJGxKSdeGA-VcjWzNNe5eV5sKrwL31ep1MS07IMqOOC_m3xm-yWL1__STABsPtbNiOztPBAo/s1600/PureSteam+Con+Goodwin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4WRA3rVcgF_xJp_2K933HoF6EB048uGSvfClaZrLHrwjLrCJRocjUv_FC2VCvJUjRo8aJGxKSdeGA-VcjWzNNe5eV5sKrwL31ep1MS07IMqOOC_m3xm-yWL1__STABsPtbNiOztPBAo/s320/PureSteam+Con+Goodwin.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PureSteam character Con Goodwin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>By Brian Funk</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Fires stoked. Water boiling. Cogs
clanging. Our first round of external playtest is on,” says game
creator Adam Crockett at <a href="http://puresteamrpg.com/">PureSteamRPG.com</a>. “Strap in, this
gyrocopter's primed and about to ascend!”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>PureSteam</b> is a Pathfinder-compatible
RPG in a steampunk setting, focused a great deal on the Blue Ridge
area of the 1800s.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“When steam tech is prevalent, coal
is king. Play a moonshinin' halfling alchemist in the Blue Ridge, a
dwarven mechanical prodigy able to jury rig vehicles on the fly, and
many more!” says the game's Facebook page.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>PureSteam</b> was recently funded through
donors to <b>Kickstarter</b> and backers who contributed more than $150 are
getting the playtest now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWuzsfC5htbPb6t4E6qOu6pTQKjdKS9YyGsaEWI5eHYo5dYrrt0h-IuMkCocJlafcnBgPHjwUbRXAaRnqkMBZwviAOSouaVqyBn26ZDjIl7MFXtefHQ31Ym7yA7F9RdVF4QCQrpBfdLE/s1600/puresteam+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="60" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWuzsfC5htbPb6t4E6qOu6pTQKjdKS9YyGsaEWI5eHYo5dYrrt0h-IuMkCocJlafcnBgPHjwUbRXAaRnqkMBZwviAOSouaVqyBn26ZDjIl7MFXtefHQ31Ym7yA7F9RdVF4QCQrpBfdLE/s200/puresteam+logo.jpg" width="200" /></a>“Everyone else: give us a couple
weeks to incorporate their feedback and we'll have the polished
playtest doc up on <a href="http://paizo.com/">paizo.com</a> as a free download for anyone and
everyone,” Crockett says.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The playtest will include:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a>• Original base classes and
archetypes to run through the ringer.<br />• Original subrace source
material to set your character apart.<br />• A multi-level adventure
module set in the game's world of Ullera<br />• Stats for
one-of-a-kind steampunk vehicles.<br />The game module is complete with
maps for the continent, nation, town and battles.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“We trust you'll enjoy our first
adventure path: <b>Trouble in Grassy Spur</b>. We ran some playtesting at
<b>GenCon</b> and the feedback was great,” Crockett said.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The playtest's adventure takes place in
a sleepy coal town caught in the midst of an anarchist plot to
disrupt travel/commerce in Ullera. Players will have a chance to
battle beasts, clockwork devices, gunmen and a few undisclosed foes
while on foot, in houses of worship, driving steam vehicles and in
(and on) a train. Grassy Spur is a great stand-alone adventure, but
can be used to set off a wider campaign.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
J. Boone Dryden is laboring on the
first full <b>PureSteam</b> novel, due out by the end of the year.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Altered History is working on custom
<b>PureSteam</b> patches which will be available online later this year.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“We are in talks with Apparition
Abolishers to have custom <b>PureSteam</b> props produced for cosplayers,
LARPers and collectors,” Crockett said.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• <i>To keep up with PureSteam's progress,
follow the developers on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, or visit
<a href="http://puresteamrpg.com/">PureSteamRPG.com</a>. There are forums on the site for feedback and
questions.</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-74794351424212910142012-08-23T14:39:00.001-07:002012-08-23T14:39:08.789-07:00MUSIC: It's Alive! Our music section is back.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0XUb41YJH3ugc1-cMpN4Yc-7q8vz-N8TMgldmIIG53SL16bUWIXeDlmj-7-uzekj64jNRA-dh8cgV4ARszyvsyU5Hsou4ra0S7yiKzp4RwBh1NN7nemi-2uo1tyxVYGiWsFDAMnuQX8/s1600/Dionysis+Metalcult+mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0XUb41YJH3ugc1-cMpN4Yc-7q8vz-N8TMgldmIIG53SL16bUWIXeDlmj-7-uzekj64jNRA-dh8cgV4ARszyvsyU5Hsou4ra0S7yiKzp4RwBh1NN7nemi-2uo1tyxVYGiWsFDAMnuQX8/s200/Dionysis+Metalcult+mug.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>CONTACT DIONYSIS:<br />Pimp your band's shows on his<br />Facebook page and send invites<br />to get live performances <br />featured on The Signal!<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/metalcult">www.facebook.com/metalcult</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Our music section is being
shocked back to life this week, with new music guru </span><b style="font-size: large;">Dionysis
Metalcult </b><span style="font-size: medium;">manning the electrodes!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">We'll continue our
weekly show listings and band profiles, and will soon add live coverage
of shows.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Dionysis (aka Dennis
Warren) is an underground recording artist and entertainer with
Galax, Va.-based heavy metal band <b>Cult of Dionysis</b>. He founded the
band in 2006 and is the drummer/vocalist.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">He is also writer/artist
for the band's underground comic book series, <b>Metalcult Comix</b> —
putting him at the perfect nexus of THE SIGNAL's mix of content.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Dionysis was the drummer
for Galax, Va.-based band Play War from 1991-1994, and the vocalist
for Independence, Va.-based Cryptameria from 1998-2001.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">"I love underground
music because that's where the true music scene lives and breathes,”
Dionysis says. “Commercial music in the 21st Century is so
mechanical, processed and manufactured that it feels fake."</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: medium;">He looks to the
underground for innovation and inspiration. “It is not from major
record labels or popular radio stations that you will hear the best
music. It is on the small stages in the dingy dives and hole in the
wall clubs that you will experience some of the most incredible music
in the world.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">There's passion in the
underground music scene, he says. His job at The Signal will be to
show readers “the path to discovering some amazing sights and
sounds.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Also graciously
volunteering to help out with music coverage is <b>Joey Davis</b> of Galax,
as passionate an underground music fan and promoter as you'll ever
meet. He and wife <b>Jess Zuniga Davis</b> will be attending some local
shows and we'll feature some of Jess' awesome photography, as well.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">And, thanks to <b>Scotty
McMeans</b> for helping get The Signal's music coverage started. Scotty
had to leave the post because of a brutal work schedule at his paying gig, but we
appreciate the contributions.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-83105613264273934952012-08-23T14:20:00.000-07:002012-08-23T14:20:07.085-07:00MUSIC: Shows for Aug. 24-25<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Busy weekend for the local music scene!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Friday, Aug. 24</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">• Cancer Benefit for Jim Benson —
featuring Dirty South Revolutionaries and more. Charlotte, N.C. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/252484551532990/" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/events/252484551532990/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">•
Rock 'Till You Drop — local/regional showcase featuring Hellblock
13 and more. Greensboro, N.C. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/463807136982811/" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/events/463807136982811/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Saturday,
Aug. 25</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">• Ziggy's 1 Year Anniversary Party — original
underground music of various genres including Southern rock, metal,
pop, country, funk and more. Winston-Salem, N.C. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/243344659119431/" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/events/243344659119431/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">•
Nothing But Metal — featuring White Nuckle Blackout and more.
Thomasville, N.C. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/382974835102687/" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/events/382974835102687/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">•
Metal Malevolence — featuring Doom Syndicate, The Ziggurat and
more. Blacksburg, Va. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/443662792334928/" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/events/443662792334928/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">•
Alleghany Uprising Cancer Awareness Concert — featuring Monstrok
and more. Sparta, N.C. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/AlleghanyUprising" style="font-size: large;">www.facebook.com/AlleghanyUprising</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-18616289696294085812012-08-22T10:16:00.002-07:002012-08-22T10:16:53.293-07:00COMICS: Recommended Reading 8/22/12<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTljfvxS9SGFpbkE7-lSwUMTIJc6xp8VpfZwcV9kJ_Bqpb6b9bxxznXadq7aLLVzizDoLRlDnQRZY8W0hSaDSbsLuq80PT4r5lk0f8BIuBKrtaX13q5IJqJTLk333N2r1oguEL3uFNFIo/s1600/Star-Wars_Darth-Vader-and-the-Ghost-Prison_4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTljfvxS9SGFpbkE7-lSwUMTIJc6xp8VpfZwcV9kJ_Bqpb6b9bxxznXadq7aLLVzizDoLRlDnQRZY8W0hSaDSbsLuq80PT4r5lk0f8BIuBKrtaX13q5IJqJTLk333N2r1oguEL3uFNFIo/s200/Star-Wars_Darth-Vader-and-the-Ghost-Prison_4.jpeg" width="130" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>By Darrell Burris</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>D&J Hobby Center, Galax</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Taking a look at books on
the shelves Aug. 22, 2012:</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Adventure Time #7 </b>is as
funny and nutty and as brilliant as the show. You can't put this book
down. Sure, you'll get some funny looks at the rack but you're
reading Adventure Time, but who cares? </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Dragon Age: Those Who
Speak #1</b> — if this book is as good as the trade paperback we
carried, then this will make me a happy shop owner. The Dragon Age
series based on the BioWare video games is worth the attention of any
fan of the fantasy genre and especially the game. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Star Wars: Darth Vader and
the Ghost Prison #4</b> — This is the best Star Wars comic I've read
and I've read a LOT of Star Wars comics. This continues the dark
story of a dying Emperor Palpatine, who is the target of an
assassination attempt from within the ranks of the Empire's own
forces. Darth Vader takes his Emperor to a hidden “ghost prison”
in deepest space. It's a dark secret of the Jedi from the Clone Wars,
something not even the most stalwart fans of the Jedi would believe
possible.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">If you are a fan of Star
Wars this book is a must read. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Batman Incorporated #3</b>
continues the surprising story of Batman and his son Damien (Robin)
and their investigation of just who is out to kill the son of the
Dark Knight. This is a true stand-out among the DC titles, especially
the multitude of Batman books. </span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Dr. Manhattan #1</b> begins
the final miniseries of the “Before Watchmen” prequels. I'm
really looking forward to this story. With the amazing success of the
series, I can only imagine that Dr. Manhattan will continue that
trend. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Danger Girl And The Army
Of Darkness #6</b> is a really fun book and a joy to read. Ash is in a
dream come true that turned nightmare. The Necronomicon has been
unleashed again, but this time he has the daring beauties of the
Danger Girls group to back him up. When Ash is not distracted by the
beauties, he's being bashed by the deadites. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Sometimes it sounds better
to have just stayed at S-MART.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Cobra #16</b> is the latest in
IDW's G.I. Joe series. It's a book that largely deals with the global
terrorist organization and takes you inside the workings of Cobra,
the back-stabbing politics and unbound villainy of the terrorists you
love.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Star Trek #12 from IDW
also beams in this week. If you're a Trekkie (or Trekker), get this
book. It takes on the “Truth of Tribbles” and the truth may be
far more than you ever thought possible. These books pick up where
the new film left off, retelling the original series of adventures of
Kirk, Spock and McCoy with an original “What If?” spin to them. I
have thoroughly enjoyed these books and I'm not a Trekkie.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Punisher #14</b> follows Frank
Castle on his road to revenge for more than the deaths of his family.
This book is a great read and modernization of the tale. This book
also leads to the upcoming Punisher: War Zone, in which Frank takes
on the heroes of the Marvel Universe.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>The Ultimates #14</b> — I
know this book isn't as popular with a lot of Marvel fans, and to be
honest that's a shame. These books have been great, especially the
idea of the Avengers and S.H.I.E.L.D. and all the assorted heroes of
villains of the Marvel Universe in a realistic world. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Things have fallen apart
in the aftermath of Reed Richards' madness and the horrors of the
City and its people. As America falls apart and the flames of civil
war begin to burn, a hero returns from self-exile to fight for
America and her people. Captain America returns to kick some ass and
take back the country from those seeking to destroy it.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">So go out and enjoy some
books this week. Stop by the shop and peruse the racks!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Here's a list of all books
shipping this week: <a href="http://www.comiclist.com/index.php">www.comiclist.com/index.php</a></i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-89533269427025055232012-08-20T16:21:00.001-07:002012-08-20T16:21:24.562-07:00GALLERY: Custom CreaturesToday, I've posted a gallery of some custom figure creations, this time taking on the classic monsters — Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster and The Wolfman.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1774754988"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWLupygoJZhixc-N_zVM1a52RWE3uDbB3w5CQN1hmqaXJOdmJoVQyOcwZbGeyL_tEBS5cZqwZbUalUTAKfgBz-hiuOLUdjd1w3WFMeU256yPtZitFNoiaUAF0cu4ib7Z-Kwb-TKJyDzoI/s320/wolf09.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.276688719102378.55814.270577639713486&type=1" target="_blank">Werewolf? There wolf!</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've kept away from the "classic" interpretations, and gone in another direction. See what you think!<br />
<br />
CLICK <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.276688719102378.55814.270577639713486&type=1" target="_blank">HERE</a></b> FOR THE GALLERYAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-37957211055207551912012-08-19T13:32:00.001-07:002012-08-19T13:32:18.566-07:00COMEDY: Mo Alexander, Evil Mastermind<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>THE SIGNAL is honored to announce a new
regular contributor — the one and only Mo Alexander! Mo has
graciously agreed to write a monthly column for THE SIGNAL. Read more
about this “evil mastermind” and his plot to melt your mind with
his madness. Then he'll put your brain back together — better,
smarter and weirder.</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9Gxo0tCT4-ERaOipjgl0eZeYR5M3X_uGH849Hn12gfsyDLMv02pzCzs_T2H20NlIDVgx1SuiNkMzNzFMKz0vAD5BBamWastC2UG0ZDM4GEJiub0ZL2aRfegkgNW5IiCtVP_nUbSOG_I/s1600/Mo+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9Gxo0tCT4-ERaOipjgl0eZeYR5M3X_uGH849Hn12gfsyDLMv02pzCzs_T2H20NlIDVgx1SuiNkMzNzFMKz0vAD5BBamWastC2UG0ZDM4GEJiub0ZL2aRfegkgNW5IiCtVP_nUbSOG_I/s320/Mo+Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a>”I’m trying to save the world, one comedy show at a time," says Memphis, Tenn.-based comedian <b>Mo
Alexander, </b>who<b> </b>describes himself as “Part evil mastermind; part
werekoala of hilarity.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The mastermind part is spot-on, but
I've never actually witnessed his transformation into a
eucalyptus-munching werebeast. (That's only after about a dozen shots
of Patron, I hear. Give him Jose Cuervo and prepare for the koala to
maul your face.)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo has been in comedy for almost two
decades and has headlined all over the country in top clubs and
theaters.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Locals know and love him from his
legendary standup gigs at the late-and-lamented Parrot Bay nightclub
in Galax, Galax Comedy Club and The Galax Smokehouse.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo says his style is twisted,
insightful and aims to “offend those people and ideals that have
offended him; ideals such as ignorance, narrow-mindedness and, for
that matter, the easily offended.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Offensive” is subjective, of
course, and part of his goal is to get people talking and thinking
about things that society says they shouldn't. The result may leave
your mouth hanging open like a trout, but your mind will be open,
too.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a>The only predictability from his shows
is that laughter and thought will ensue.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo has made it his mission in life to
“Slap The Stupid,” a mantra he has also turned into a marketing
plan with T-shirts and other merchandise.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
His comedy is a fun, contradictory
social study. That's the “mastermind” part of the equation.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo says he's “lovably evil” than
diabolical, and a “techno-geek with social skills.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
He's into “geeky fun stuff,” but
“not Magic Cards of D&D,” he says.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In other words, if he ever builds that
death ray on his island lair, it will probably kill you with laughter
or leave a gaping hole in your face where you're inhibitions and
ability to be offended used to be.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo grew up in Memphis, on a steady diet of comedy classics like W.C. Fields, The Marx Bros., Bob Hope
films, George Carlin and old <i>Saturday Night Live </i>skits. Watching A&E’s <i>Evening at the Improv</i>, he realized, “I’m
better than these folks, I can do this!”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Soon after, he went to a
local open mic in Memphis and began doing standup.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A few months into his newly found "hobby," Mo saw the late Bill Hicks perform, which changed his life. Mo said he threw away his notebook of jokes and started all over again, writing material that actually meant something to himself and other people.</div>
He won the "Funniest Person in Memphis" contest before he even started headlining.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo came to national attention in 1999, when he opened for
Keenan Ivory Wayans's comedy tour. He was in the running with
actress/comedian Wanda Sykes for the opening slot on the tour, and
Keenan chose Mo.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Touring with Wayans was a door for allowing him to be a contributing writer to Wayans’ hit Scary Movie.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
He also had his own theater show, “The
Mo Funny Show” in Las Vegas, with his partner in crime and comedy
Matt Davis.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In 2010, Mo participated in the San
Francisco comedy competition where he missed making the semi-finals
by a .006 percent.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
He has released four CDs of
original material — <i>The Mo Files</i> (2000), <i>Evolution</i> (2004), <i>Nappy
Headed Hoes and Other FCC Infractions</i> (2008) and his latest, 2012's
<i>Just in Case the Mayans are Right.</i> He also has released one
compilation, 2010's <i>Teabaggin</i>. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQum2DB35tGdh6v_zsb0asZEJ-61wtRii7zAnynB8FLu31TGiqIBjTeNHtp0wBk0ZOC_PTllnQPi95kpo6NMznpjyx5XPGmKcrKNYYVpNWweED3Z1l8e285Dr1P1eoQaKuucT1ARGVA-o/s1600/Mo+Mayans+CD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQum2DB35tGdh6v_zsb0asZEJ-61wtRii7zAnynB8FLu31TGiqIBjTeNHtp0wBk0ZOC_PTllnQPi95kpo6NMznpjyx5XPGmKcrKNYYVpNWweED3Z1l8e285Dr1P1eoQaKuucT1ARGVA-o/s200/Mo+Mayans+CD.jpg" width="200" /></a><i><b>BUY Mo's comedy CDs at CDBABy.com right here — <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/moalexander4">www.cdbaby.com/cd/moalexander4</a></b></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mo has appeared on <i>Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher</i>, Comedy Central’s <i>Laugh Riot,</i> the BET staple <i>Comic View</i> and has even made an appearance in Poison’s Bret Michael’s film, <i>Letters from Death Row</i>.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
He is a weekly guest of <em>ESPN Radio’s Out of Bounds with Spanky Brown</em> and <em>The Spanky Brown Show</em>, which can be heard on BlogTalkRadio.com. Mo can also be seen in drag in the movie <em>Ray Stevens’ Get Serious</em>, but he’d rather not talk about that.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In February 2012, he was featured on
the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom radio program, where he has
been invited to return soon to earn the moniker of a Bob & Tom
regular.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Seeing Mo's live standup is where you
get the best sense of the man. If you go to a show, buy him a shot —
or 10 — of higher-end tequila (no Cuervo!) and watch a true
entertainer push the limits of what you thought was possible in
comedy, without ending up at your local police department.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You still might get locked up if you
follow Mo's nightly advice to “get nekkid and go to Walmart.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
That's totally up to you.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>We hope to launch Mo's new column this
month at THE SIGNAL. In the meantime, you can visit his website,
<a href="http://www.slapthestupid.com/">www.slapthestupid.com</a>; keep up with his ongoing efforts at world
domination on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/comedianmoalexander">www.facebook.com/comedianmoalexander</a> or
follow him on Twitter for a regular dose of insanity,
<a href="http://www.twitter.com/moalexander">www.twitter.com/moalexander</a>.</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-11574959920413817502012-08-16T11:04:00.001-07:002012-08-16T11:06:01.003-07:00CONS: The Virginia Vintage Comics & Collectibles Show <br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3t6sGtryKzIkqKjJGR2-ZSHyJ7QfvfBTjjq_H3OJD5sG-za3FdXGOApo-lCyqdzfnQrA9xyJe9L2m99znVdKxqQb08WZHejbh3ebbOPU0CSftoB5IJiGMUUeYI3lVXqqbuVcu8WgOzg/s1600/virginia+vintage+show.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3t6sGtryKzIkqKjJGR2-ZSHyJ7QfvfBTjjq_H3OJD5sG-za3FdXGOApo-lCyqdzfnQrA9xyJe9L2m99znVdKxqQb08WZHejbh3ebbOPU0CSftoB5IJiGMUUeYI3lVXqqbuVcu8WgOzg/s200/virginia+vintage+show.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;">The Virginia Vintage
Comics and Collectibles Show returns to the Salem Civic Center for
the 15</span><sup><span style="font-size: medium;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: medium;"> year on
Saturday, Aug. 18. The show is billed as “the only Vintage Comic
Show in the Eastern United States.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Show promoter Roger Mannon
of Floyd said, “there are lots of comic book shows, and old comics
can be found at toy, hobby and card shows. But we are the only show
dedicated to old comics.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Because the show is
unique, dealers and collectors from as far as Florida, New York and
the Midwest attend, a total of 14 states to date. One man who has
made the 1,100 mile trip from Minneapolis several times calls
Virginia Vintage “the best one-day, small-city show in the United
States.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: medium;">Comic books were a staple
of life in the mid-20</span><sup><span style="font-size: medium;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: medium;">
Century and have enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years. One
reason is the proliferation of movies based on comic books.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Standard superheroes like
Superman and Batman have generated popular movies for decades, but in
recent years the roster has grown to include Spider-Man, X-Men, Iron
Man, Thor, Green Lantern and others. This year’s Avengers movie has
already become one of the biggest box office hits of all time.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">Another reason for renewed
interest in comics is that some of them have become extraordinarily
valuable. Comic books that originally sold for 10 cents 60 or 70
years ago can be worth $100,000 or more today.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">In this area, a box of old
comics found in Martinsville brought $3.5 million at auction in
February of this year. Another old collection from central Virginia
will have its public debut at this year’s show.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">This collection is not
as valuable as the Martinsville collection,” Mannon said. “But it
is significant because it is an original owner collection from the
early 1940s, and most of the issues have war-themed covers, even the
Disney and humor issues.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Mannon notes that “not
all old comics are of equal value. You can find hundreds of old
comics at the Vintage Show in the $2 to $5 range.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">The most valuable are
the key issues,” he said. “When significant, rare issues are in
high grade condition, then you’re looking at big money.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
•</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>The Salem Civic Center is
located at 1001 Roanoke Blvd. Show hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Admission is $2, or free for ages 12 and under. Parking is free, and
gas card/door prizes are awarded hourly. For additional information,
call (540) 789-7056, (540) 745-2127, or visit
<a href="http://virginiavintagecomics.com/">virginiavintagecomics.com</a>.</i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-23368303686393584072012-08-14T21:20:00.002-07:002012-08-16T11:04:53.439-07:00COMICS: Recommended Reading for Aug. 15, 2012<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">By Darrell Burris</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/DJHobbyCenter" target="_blank">D&J Hobby Center,Galax</a></i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPscUypze64YDyUDNzAoW1L9weJy79uVuHgKuGe4890S3xWTJrso27IK3SJj-JjLDcfKxSiF3EZ7sF-2IFobYBqwG_5vur0FymDwwD1ECqEFpn-_MGC-6dVpnLuxo_qg3IsP-tOY9Kxss/s1600/Walking-Dead-101-Cover.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPscUypze64YDyUDNzAoW1L9weJy79uVuHgKuGe4890S3xWTJrso27IK3SJj-JjLDcfKxSiF3EZ7sF-2IFobYBqwG_5vur0FymDwwD1ECqEFpn-_MGC-6dVpnLuxo_qg3IsP-tOY9Kxss/s200/Walking-Dead-101-Cover.jpeg" width="130" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Rorschach #1</b> is one of the
most-anticipated books of the “Before Watchmen” series. I am
hopeful that this book will continue the trend of success that this
DC series has had. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Green Lantern #12</b>
continues the success of the DC reboot, but ironically, this book
hasn't really changed at all in the “New 52” universe and is
still running pretty much as it was before the reboot. The mysteries
continue to grow as to just what the Guardians are up to and to what
depths they will go to ensure complete control and peace in the
galaxy at any cost. The Lanterns now turn on their creators and do
all they can to stop them before their plans come to fruition. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Justice League #10</b> is
another in the long line of quality DC titles and I do hope it
continues. This book continues to please all that read it with the
adventures of their favorite DC heroes all in one book. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Outside the mainstream
superhero books, there's <b>Crossed: Badlands #11</b> ― a book for
strictly mature readers, and even in that regard there are only so
many of them that I really believe that can handle this book. It
takes the idea of the zombie to a whole new and disturbing level.
They're not undead but “Crossed” ― victims of a horrifically
disturbing disease with mysterious origins that lays claim to most of
the world's population, turning them into completely depraved maniacs
preying on the survivors, seeking to spread their horrors to them in
the most disturbing ways imaginable. There is a line and this book
“crossed” it long ago.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />For D&D fans
comes <b>Pathfinder #1</b>, a true fantasy tale of the heroes of the popular
RPG. This book holds promise and I am hoping it will translate to
sales.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Crow #2</b> comes in this
week, following the very interesting and original retelling of the
original Crow story. This is supported by some amazing art and
gripping storytelling. IDW continues its climb to the top with this
title, added to its growing list of successful titles. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>68 Scars #2</b> continues the
story of a captured helicopter pilot and his captors in North
Vietnam. Added to the mix is the strange Witch Man of the woods who
has the ability to fly. This origin story of Joe Hill's “The Cape”
is not only an unusual tale, but also a gripping war story to boot.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Walking Dead #101</b> ― this
book sells itself, and with the shocking conclusion of issue #100, I
can only imagine where this will go.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Avengers Vs. X-Men</b> is a
book with its ups and downs, depending on who you ask, but
nonetheless it makes for an interesting read. Some of these have been
gripping while others a little confusing. Issue #10 is out this week.
One thing I do know is that it flies off the shelf and, while I have
enjoyed the book, I look forward to the anticipated aftermath of this
title ― Marvel NOW.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Daredevil #17 — </b>This book
is becoming one of the hidden gems of Marvel. Some great stories have
been coming from this book and I would recommend it to anyone wanting
a change from the flash and pop of other Marvel fair to something a
little more street-level.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Deadpool Kills The Marvel
Universe #3</b> ― the title tells it all, and boy does this book get to
the point. With Deadpool killing off the First Family of Marvel and
now setting his sights on the rest of the Marvel herodom, can anyone
stop him? This is a great title and a really good read. Deadpool is a
great character and a true original in the Marvel Universe.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">While Marvel and DC are
rebooting books, Valiant is rebooting its entire company, continuing
with <b>Bloodshot #2 & Harbinger #3</b> this week. What can I say? BUY
THESE BOOKS! Valiant has been batting a thousand with their titles.
These are some of the finest books I have ever read. From X-O Manowar
and Archer & Armstrong to the upcoming Ninjack and Shadowman and
beyond, the Valiant Universe has returned to kick some much-needed
ass in comics and remind us why we loved comics in the first place.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Here's a link for the entire list of comics this week — <a href="http://www.comiclist.com/index.php">www.comiclist.com/index.php</a></i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-81273240011029412962012-08-13T20:52:00.001-07:002012-08-13T21:02:31.441-07:00CON REPORT: Charlotte ComiCon 2012<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nFGIZWEQ72P-18DBP2ubCSZR01ctZYcqahn2fewgKn7a-wwZ5hhwSjNg_NW2tEhH8l1TkR24ODGR8EZ4ukJkq7B2aiY0FBZWx3mQszzmjQN92M6oxtlKNrKYL0QlTRXVnbjP3VSFxQM/s1600/107_1648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nFGIZWEQ72P-18DBP2ubCSZR01ctZYcqahn2fewgKn7a-wwZ5hhwSjNg_NW2tEhH8l1TkR24ODGR8EZ4ukJkq7B2aiY0FBZWx3mQszzmjQN92M6oxtlKNrKYL0QlTRXVnbjP3VSFxQM/s200/107_1648.JPG" width="133" /></a><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
One of the great things about comic
conventions is rooting through the dusty 50-cent boxes for hidden
treasures.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We were on the scene for the first time
at <b><a href="http://www.charlottecomicon.info/" target="_blank">Charlotte ComiCon</a></b> last month, and found some gems.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The con was in the small Crown Plaza
hotel ballroom downtown, and very well attended. In fact, the event
could really use a bigger venue. And air conditioning.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It's definitely for the vintage comic
collector with money to spend. Not my thing, personally — I'm a
reader, not a collector. If you're looking for older books, though,
this is your place.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I did find a 36-issue run of New
Mutants (1982) in the 50-cent box. Score! That and Teen Titans were
two of my favorite books growing up.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Not an abundance of other collectibles
— and few, if any, trade paperbacks — but the cosplay was going
strong.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Among the usual superheroes and
stormtroopers from the 501st Legion were the truly innovative
costumes, like The Doctor and Amy Pond, joined by a woman in a TARDIS
costume. The big blue box looked uncomfortable, but of course the
TARDIS is bigger on the inside.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Check out the slideshow below for more
pics, and see more about their upcoming events
at <a href="http://www.charlottecomicon.info/">www.charlottecomicon.info</a> and their Facebook page, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CharlotteComicon">www.facebook.com/CharlotteComicon</a>.</div>
</div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;">— </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Brian</i></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwZdQsrLAFAnS0DuO6OuHBV0ShGpBbVivtWmiUdfuIjoLm9Uyh3CT9xkjf1oI1t3A3Mcw3Euolw3gSUhxCNqA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-38781022104231207302012-08-12T14:04:00.001-07:002012-08-16T11:05:17.044-07:00BAND OF THE WEEK: Doom Syndicate<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqQPQllfuMDSVzxgkC14rRcXjAyOIu0urh5PTxt5GxlG_3lDEp0pZhZLUzl-CbwTEXswzrv6P-F-eeZqI1f6bWCRtqYK7KXsoBW_mYy27gn755NYbyqayH7CVQE91lGvxUWR8ifT_S7Q/s1600/Doom+Syndicate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqQPQllfuMDSVzxgkC14rRcXjAyOIu0urh5PTxt5GxlG_3lDEp0pZhZLUzl-CbwTEXswzrv6P-F-eeZqI1f6bWCRtqYK7KXsoBW_mYy27gn755NYbyqayH7CVQE91lGvxUWR8ifT_S7Q/s320/Doom+Syndicate.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;">Doom Syndicate, from
Roanoke, Va., are massive. Death metal at it's finest.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">They have played with a
long list of national acts and started a multi-state tour last week.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">Their new album, "Midsummer's Fall," comes out Aug. 28 from Born of Chaos Records.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">The post-Apocalyptic metal
band from the Blue Ridge Mountains has been cultivating their flavor
of metal since the late 1990s, meeting many friends along the way and
quietly helping forge a new sound of East Coast flavor.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: medium;">Doom
Syndicate started by opening for the mighty Corrosion of Conformity
as their first major gig. They've played across the U.S, including
the 2003 Milwaukee Metal Fest and the first-ever Las Vegas Metal
Fest, as well as co-headlining the 2004 Metal-Nation.com. Snake Fest
in North Carolina and headlining the SWVA Metal Fest in 2003 and
2004.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">This led to a headlining
tour in autumn of 2004 with Fireborn as support act.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Since then, they've shared
the stage with dozens of local and national bands, playing everywhere
they can, including the historic Victory Stadium and the Roanoke
Civic Center.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Doom Syndicate also got
national attention and CD release through a RCR records from Chicago,
and are prepping a second release.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">It's not unusual to catch
one of their heavy tunes on a couple of local radio stations late at
night.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The members of Doom
Syndicate are an assortment of hardcore metallers. Scott, with a
extensive metal background, plays lead guitars. Chip, a long-time
metal head, has a powerful skill and love for the bass. JR, whose
vocal style influenced by punk hardcore from his youth, combined with
his love of pure death metal make him a perfect fit. Dan, whose black
metal hardcore extreme drumming, fit the sound the band has been
striving to reach for years.<br />“Now, the time has come to unleash
what has been hidden deep in these mountains for years,” says the
band's bio. “After slowly building their following through over
2,000 live shows, the Internet, releasing four self-produced albums,
and a national and International release, Doom Syndicate has finally
taken the steps needed to make sure their mark on metal be shown to
the rest of the world.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><b style="font-size: large;">LOCAL DATES ON NATIONAL
TOUR:</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">• Aug. 21: Roanoke,
Va., at Coffin House Studios in conjunction with Extreme Electric
Entertainment, with Above the Altar, Fury of the Ancients, and more.
8 p.m., all ages.<br /><br />• Aug. 31: Roanoke, Va., Coffin
House Studios. Also featuring Ritual of Odds, Scavengers Daughter and
more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. $6 cover charge. All ages.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Learn more about Doom
Syndicate on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/DooM-Syndicate/113880328642303" target="_blank">HERE</a> or their website <a href="http://www.doomsyndicate.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-47498064736876850172012-08-10T15:46:00.004-07:002012-08-10T15:46:31.259-07:00Character Profile: THE ROOK<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>This is the first in a series of
features on original characters I'm designing for a graphic novel
idea I'm working on. Rather than design them on paper, I design in
3D, with X-Acto knives, wire cutters, Sculpey, paint, screwdrivers
and lots of plastic bits.</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyMklNKUsJjy8IudkVFIgIC1Oq3F0iligipA2t1FSS6xQTwawpoA5je6hxLaD758s_zlNQ49XlWKJLEZZo3OLB5w2OnODiwuQLaZtRw3lggbq1YuLruZJIu9Eb1jZ96sRN66Q8e6xUNE/s1600/107_1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyMklNKUsJjy8IudkVFIgIC1Oq3F0iligipA2t1FSS6xQTwawpoA5je6hxLaD758s_zlNQ49XlWKJLEZZo3OLB5w2OnODiwuQLaZtRw3lggbq1YuLruZJIu9Eb1jZ96sRN66Q8e6xUNE/s320/107_1555.JPG" width="192" /></a>We'll start off with <b>The Rook</b>, a
character I've long been developing and one whose name and look has
evolved dramatically over time. I've had this guy in mind for 20
years.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Rook</b> was always a crow/raven-themed
character, but he went from being an armored Batman type to a more
medieval knight to a supernatural creature before finally becoming an
amalgam of all three influences.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I'm using a NECA “Ninja Gaiden”
body for a base, with a Toy Biz “Darkness” head, Mattell
“Hawkgirl” wings and assorted parts.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The wings aren't meant to be organic,
but instead a kind of Da Vinci-style glider/flight pack.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
He still needs to be assembled and
painted, and some original parts sculpted. Final color scheme will be
black with highlights of copper, dark grey and blue.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
For a guy that's been in my head this
long, <b>The Rook's</b> backstory remains mostly a mystery to me. Maybe that's why
I find him so compelling.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
His role in the story is a mentor to
some of the main characters and something of a tragic figure. He's
older than he looks, and about the last hero left in a world that has
lost most of its protectors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz_LPNh66YOkUz9sFODF01lKzk6l0dFZ8ogqSD3TrwCoTWn8J02zrVcfVTwFdfMyPjPLrKJWYOqtRbVPEKedw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Once soaring into battle on those
wings, <b>The Rook </b>now roosts in dark, abandoned lofts of vacant buildings,
hiding out from his enemies. I wanted his look to reflect that
“fallen angel” status.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-15234877745907629642012-08-08T18:42:00.002-07:002012-08-08T18:59:50.927-07:00MUSIC: This Weekend's Shows<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Bluegrass not your thing? </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Or just want some thrash or some beats to mix things up a little?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Plenty of shows this weekend:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>FRIDAY, AUG. 10</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ziggy's, Winston-Salem, N.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Jerry Garcia B-day Bash, with Cosmic
Charlie</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/466182116728118/">facebook.com/events/466182116728118/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Easy Street Private Club Thomasville,
N.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Metal Against Cancer Benefit Show,
featuring Skylines Always Fall, HellBlock 13, White Knuckle Black
Out, Lifemare and MindJakked</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/483740241639082/">facebook.com/events/483740241639082/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The New Brookland Tavern and
Restaurant, West Columbia, S.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
New Brookland Throwdown, presented by
Splatter Magazine and Wickedlife Promotions. Featuring Dirty South
Revolutionaries, Dixie Deathwise, nothinG and Robot Plant.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/215120211944305/">facebook.com/events/215120211944305/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Galax</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Basement show with upcoming local band
Blight</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Details on the link:
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/303342616431411/">facebook.com/events/303342616431411/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Chop Shop, Charlotte, N.C.
</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Rockin The Chop Shop, featuring
Taatermask, Viasava, Descendants Of Chaos, ManaMana</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/348179871927465/">facebook.com/events/348179871927465/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>SATURDAY, AUG. 11</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ziggy's, Winston-Salem, N.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Fuhnetik Union/My Brother Skylar</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/253191098133590/">facebook.com/events/253191098133590/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Clubhouse Greensboro, Greensboro,
N.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Exposed Festival, featuring The Devil's
Roundhouse, 3 Quarters Dead, Deadset, Resist, Perfect Illusion and
many more.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/events/334440586631215/">facebook.com/events/334440586631215/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>10-0-one, Winston-Salem, N.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A Light Divided, Thru World Aggression,
Skinkage and InterTwyned</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Tailgators, Winston-Salem, N.C.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Alexis Machine, with special guests
Something Wicked</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-12059042211653696972012-08-08T09:02:00.002-07:002012-08-08T09:11:13.005-07:00Music and comics mix for Mumford & Sons and Mountain Empire<br />
<div class="fbInfoIcon fbDescriptionIcon">
<i class="img sp_8nbl6w sx_d694ac" title="Description"></i></div>
<span itemprop="description"></span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_50228c303cdb72169188256">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU7874d-KOugpMc8YtlIsFLzhj0vi4lpcXU4fU_XnOFp4WX1m0M7vBAUpFbg7JOkdbh_V-3HXd33__S-kWkYHVVwgwdgbWycPSzLW5OO_3iWdVk-OQw86ny6NjIXW2rzIZ4vUUp0XXRE/s1600/562652_362789003783713_1924200530_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU7874d-KOugpMc8YtlIsFLzhj0vi4lpcXU4fU_XnOFp4WX1m0M7vBAUpFbg7JOkdbh_V-3HXd33__S-kWkYHVVwgwdgbWycPSzLW5OO_3iWdVk-OQw86ny6NjIXW2rzIZ4vUUp0XXRE/s320/562652_362789003783713_1924200530_n.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Dionysis and Brett Marcus Cook of
Metalcult Comix with master illustrator and comic book legend Charles
Vess of Abingdon, at Mountain Empire Comics.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span itemprop="description">BRISTOL — Internationally
renowned London-based band Mumford & Sons will be performing along
with several other groups on State Street in downtown Bristol, Tenn., on Aug. 11. The event is expected to draw thousands, and in
between the music, fun, and excitement be sure to stop in at Mountain
Empire Comics! </span><br />
<span itemprop="description"><br /></span>
<br />
<span itemprop="description"><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/306794489418736/" target="_blank"> Mountain Empire Comics</a></b> Mastermind Robert Pilk
has invited a number of artists and independent comic book creators to
appear at his store! So in addition to the incredible selection of comic
books, games, magazines, and graphic novels always on sale, you'll have a chance to meet some super cool independent artisans!</span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<span itemprop="description"><br /></span>
<span itemprop="description">Special guests include:</span><br />
<span itemprop="description">Kaysha Siemens, artist extraordinaire:<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1310143387"> </a></span><a href="http://www.kayshasiemens.com/">http://www.kayshasiemens.com/</a></div>
</div>
<br />
Betty-Badger Ogletree of Ogletree Art Studios:<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/rainbowbrightbetty">http://www.facebook.com/rainbowbrightbetty</a><br />
<br />
Dionysis Metalcult the creator of Metalcult Comix:<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/MetalcultComix">http://www.facebook.com/MetalcultComix</a><br />
<br />
PLUS MORE!<br />
<br />
Also be sure to drop in at Bridgeforth Design Studio right beside
Mountain Empire Comics and check out all the amazing artwork created by
Brian & Marie: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BridgeforthDesignStudio">http://www.facebook.com/BridgeforthDesignStudio</a><br />
<br />
Mountain Empire Comics is located 31 Sixth St. in Downtown Bristol, Tenn.<br />
For more information, call (423) 274-0450 or visit <a href="http://www.mumfordandsons.com/">http://www.mumfordandsons.com/</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/306794489418736/">https://www.facebook.com/events/306794489418736/</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-13640365160505209672012-08-07T20:24:00.001-07:002012-08-07T20:29:29.423-07:00COMICS: This week's recommended reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFp_M20sLE5cd3UBuZS1eAKOGNdh3Tsw4N46dG9O8GRXvUCVG7ki7Qkm6pZ8rBKxw1XY9B1SCNtI3EACjfoM2oM5ePapVmpOYTjO9DmL62gIjm_mV9MXA2i7aBzw5FXCAGrwC7-Sqm8I/s1600/batmanjun120177.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFp_M20sLE5cd3UBuZS1eAKOGNdh3Tsw4N46dG9O8GRXvUCVG7ki7Qkm6pZ8rBKxw1XY9B1SCNtI3EACjfoM2oM5ePapVmpOYTjO9DmL62gIjm_mV9MXA2i7aBzw5FXCAGrwC7-Sqm8I/s200/batmanjun120177.jpeg" width="130" /></a></div>
It's Wednesday, so it's time to hit
your local comic shop and see what's new this week.<br />
This week, I
asked Darrell Burris, proprietor of D&J Hobby in Galax, for his
recommendations:<br />
<br />
"You can't go wrong with <b>Batman</b>,"
Burris says. "I think <b>Thun'da</b> will be (hopefully) a hit. <b>The
Massive</b> has been an interesting read. What gets me is how plausible
this story can be in the real world. "<b>Before Watchmen:
Ozymandias #2</b> is my favorite of this entire series. I love the art
and the story is a remarkable piece of writing.<br />
"I'm looking forward to <b>Godzilla:
Half Century War #1</b>. I've really enjoyed the other books in this
series and am always a sucker for the God of
Beasts.<br />
"<b>Transformers</b> will continue to be one of IDW's
gems. These are great books and for fans of the Autobots and
Decepticons it's a must. Plus, I'm a big fan of how they've
moved away from Earth and focused on the universe of these heroes and
villains.<br />
"<b>Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe</b> will be a
hit, since we sold out of #1 in near record time."<br />
<br />
There you
have it. Get out there and get reading. See what's coming out at
COMICLIST (<a href="http://www.comiclist.com/index.php">www.comiclist.com/index.php</a>) and then check out D&J
HOBBY CENTER (<a href="http://www.facebook.com/DJHobbyCenter">www.facebook.com/DJHobbyCenter</a>.)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-17802474637068226602012-08-07T13:32:00.000-07:002012-08-07T13:33:02.714-07:00Watch the WyvaCon short film<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjubP7MjAswgBqTB8few1nDszzZX77Hzb-DlrTXerT6IqLOhOs2swcX7bTRckUgz68-5fxqcZqtVO5gSaUh59_NwubShQzLfVrtS9bRl7I0uEHyKFKSA6gcfz4VsKvghiT8ehfvwI4dV8/s320/Picture+2.png" title="" width="320" /></div>
</div>
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br /></span>
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Our good friend Dionysis (he of the bewildering 'stache in the photo) brings this to our attention:</span><br />
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br /></span>
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">The WyvaCon Documentary is now online and watchable.</span><br />
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">More than that — it's enjoyable!</span><br />
<br />
Says Dionysis: "This short film chronicles the amazing event that was the first WyvaCon, a science fiction and fantasy convention which took place on
July 28, 2012 in Wytheville, Va.<br />
"Special thanks to filmmaker Donald
Bales, organizers Chris DeHart, Melanie Hanshew, head of security Brian Goolsby, my pals Paul Phipps, Travis Viars, Katie Viars and everybody else who participated, attended and supported the event to make it a HUGE success."<br />
<br />
It truly was a great day. Relive it (or experience it for the first time) right here: <a href="http://vimeo.com/47063318">http://vimeo.com/47063318</a><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-41003338294254206752012-08-07T13:01:00.005-07:002012-08-07T13:01:55.602-07:00WyvaCon 2013 is a go!If you attended WyvaCon, Wytheville's first-ever sci-fi convention last month — or wish you had — you'll be glad to know that WyvaCon 2013 is already booked for July 27, 2013.<br />
<br />
See you there!<br />
<br />
Here's a <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/385624494836863/" target="_blank">link</a></b>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-703377787755520312012-08-06T10:43:00.000-07:002012-08-06T10:43:05.520-07:00Ghosts of Galax walking tour returns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy13VMgpnH7Mp9fAWmtrXe413YEuDzoG-iddt6qUjhOUTD2D2g5W_eE48j1vrFQAerhOGIxM32L-z7xMVH3e35KrM60VjSMjVnvx4UWbXjxCT_cJzpMSgS3doHPd-f9vM364DJtWD5gTM/s1600/Picture+8.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy13VMgpnH7Mp9fAWmtrXe413YEuDzoG-iddt6qUjhOUTD2D2g5W_eE48j1vrFQAerhOGIxM32L-z7xMVH3e35KrM60VjSMjVnvx4UWbXjxCT_cJzpMSgS3doHPd-f9vM364DJtWD5gTM/s320/Picture+8.png" width="264" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>By Brian Funk, Copyright 2012, The Gazette (www.galaxgazette.com): </i><br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">A Galax native has
explored his hometown's darkest corners to reveal tales of terror and
the unknown.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Brandon Ayers hopes these
legends, extracted from locals and presented by professional
storytellers and guides, will educate and enthrall during the Ghosts
of Galax Haunted Historic Walking Tour.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ayers, who grew up in
Galax, says he got the idea after taking similar ghost tours in
Abingdon and in Beaufort, N.C. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">Why not here? People
are always looking for something to do, and this is an hour of live
entertainment that includes ghost stories and the history of our
city.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ayers began compiling
stories, and figured he'd accumulate a handful to fill out a brief
tour. At last count, he had about 40 stories — 15 of which are
included in the hour-long ghost walk. “I've lived here all my life,
and I'd never heard most of these stories,” Ayers said.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ayers launched the ghost
tour last year, and is bringing it back each night this week to
coincide with the Galax Old Fiddlers' Convention. He will also offer
the tours on weekends in October.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">He said there are six new
stops and new stories added to this year's tour.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ayers started at the
public library, reading a half-dozen history books about Galax, then
began talking to anyone who'd listen. Just about everyone he told
about the project had a story to tell, some passed down through their
families from before the city's founding in 1906.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">In the process of
collecting these spooky tales, he discovered a fascinating history of
downtown Galax and those who used to live here. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0GIfTZHoaGDhW6WKvgY4GhpiPHBbEQXgdz_NqELJ_8WwsOO4xPxuAenuAIS2-S9c9QOUu0KjQGqrfQRETR9NlOvUaNY4dXSJcuRRjiB9CSrPLUZsuGKEbO5iRFHBWK4SJ4uRC8KrG_E/s1600/Picture+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0GIfTZHoaGDhW6WKvgY4GhpiPHBbEQXgdz_NqELJ_8WwsOO4xPxuAenuAIS2-S9c9QOUu0KjQGqrfQRETR9NlOvUaNY4dXSJcuRRjiB9CSrPLUZsuGKEbO5iRFHBWK4SJ4uRC8KrG_E/s400/Picture+7.png" width="232" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;">The hauntings are the
hook, but the true spirit of the tour is a history lesson peppered
with weird happenings and funny stories, like the Sunday morning when
a cache of dynamite exploded right in the middle of a
fire-and-brimstone sermon, leading the congregation to believe the
end had finally come.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Each candlelit tour will
be led by a guide who has been schooled in the history and hauntings
of Galax. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ayers is using one tale in
particular to tie this inaugural tour together — the story of a
spectral nurse who doesn't so much haunt as help those in danger.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">The story of Nurse
Alice begins back in 1904, when the Hotel Waugh stood on the site on
North Main Street where Macado's is now and what used to be the Galax
Post Office,” Ayers says.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">While she was staying
at the hotel, it caught fire. Alice got out, but according to legend,
she ran back in to check on others — right as the building
collapsed around her.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But, Alice's story didn't
end there. Like a guardian angel, she turns up again when another
fire breaks out years later.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">The Central Hotel
caught fire some time in the early 1900s,” Ayers said. “The
guests kept asking what happened to the nurse, who they said knocked
on their doors and told them the building was on fire.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ayers said 11 of the
guests all described the same incident — a woman in white came to
get them, told them she was a nurse, and led them to safety.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">There was no one that
matched that description staying at the hotel, but she exactly
matched the description of Alice — a white dress with a Victorian
collar, her hair in a bun and holding a handkerchief.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Legend has it that, one
foggy night at the city's old bus stop, a woman getting off the bus
stepped around the front to smoke a cigarette, tripped over some
luggage and fell into the street, where she was hit by a car.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Tour guide Jason Vaught
said that, years later, a driver reported “hitting” a woman at
that spot on a foggy night. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span style="font-size: medium;">He felt the impact, but
the woman just disappeared and he felt a cold wind blow through the
cab of his truck and could smell stale cigarette smoke.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">During trial runs, some
people have already had ghostly experiences. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Looking at old photos of
Galax, Ayers was struck by how busy downtown was in the early 20th
Century. “I want to see it thrive, I want Galax to become
everything it can be. There's so much potential here, and we need to
embrace our history.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">He stresses that the tour
is about life, not death — the goal is to bring vitality back to
downtown.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span lang="en-US">In
those fading photos, the streets are filled with people, shoulder to
shoulder. “My wish is that we could be just as bustling and
thriving as Galax was in its heyday.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlLg7vkA2lhkeAaryyEyVj-xadzl7dxAV2t6CVEbk7pKgkFvYh9dcqm3ciwlU66LM6IjYNKdn_xz_qjWyAztvSbGhSrRHpwnY1KoM4rYmTTxWSA373SNacxo7JeNwQnELA1Ibyr_6kDCQ/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlLg7vkA2lhkeAaryyEyVj-xadzl7dxAV2t6CVEbk7pKgkFvYh9dcqm3ciwlU66LM6IjYNKdn_xz_qjWyAztvSbGhSrRHpwnY1KoM4rYmTTxWSA373SNacxo7JeNwQnELA1Ibyr_6kDCQ/s200/Picture+4.png" width="159" /></a><span style="font-size: medium;"><span lang="en-US"><b>Ghosts
of Galax Haunted Historic Walking Tour</b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>The tour is six-tenths of
a mile long, and begins each night at the Galax Farmers' Market on
North Main Street.</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Hours:</b> Nightly, Aug. 6-11,
with tours departing at 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">(Starting in October,
tours are on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, at the same
times.)</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Prices:</b> $12 for adults; $8
for students with ID, senior citizens and active military; and free
for children age 5 and younger. This week, the ghost tour is offering
a $1 discount for those with paid admission to the fiddlers'
convention.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Reservations:</b> recommended,
but not necessary.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span lang="en-US"><b>Contact:</b>
(276) 235-5264</span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-959570675525039412012-08-02T14:09:00.001-07:002012-08-02T14:09:23.924-07:00BAND OF THE WEEK: Vanisher<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>By Scotty McMeans</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-ZwckhlHGueSS8q7Ljhgq8G8o3SNuKuGCo4xZZaoCqHZMARpc-AMlrPjOyR8R1VPNqFeufzfTP9SeP4A_aRruTmV2GdOPAUH6Jl2wmqUDHfpblRxVukWpdmcUdAh_J9zFnOo5TeL8XY/s1600/Vanisher+album+cover+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-ZwckhlHGueSS8q7Ljhgq8G8o3SNuKuGCo4xZZaoCqHZMARpc-AMlrPjOyR8R1VPNqFeufzfTP9SeP4A_aRruTmV2GdOPAUH6Jl2wmqUDHfpblRxVukWpdmcUdAh_J9zFnOo5TeL8XY/s200/Vanisher+album+cover+small.jpg" width="200" /></a>I have to go with the most buzz-worthy
of the week, Vanisher. Their first full-length CD, “Unbound,”
debuted July 31 and immediately went to bandcamp.com's third
most-downloaded in the world.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
From the band's profile:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Vanisher is a band that started by
accident.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Two years ago when guitarist Kyle Odell
was wrapping up a year's worth of constant touring with his band
Bloodjinn, he decided to start writing again. Not sure of the
direction that the sound was going, he started working with current
Bloodjinn vocalist Joel Collins on what would become the band Zero
System. Collins reeled in the singing and bass talent of then Glass
Casket fill-in guitar player Justin Reich and the music started to
take shape.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After months of pre-production, Collins
decided to part from Zero System to dive deeper into his record label
and promotions company. Leaving this spot open, Reich contacted Glass
Casket vocalist Adam Cody to fill the void of front man and a new
direction was formed for the band.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The music was more aggressive, but more
sharp and precise than the original radio metal groove Zero System
was initially carving for itself. With this change and with their
then drummer Trey Harding moving on to start a family, the moniker
Zero System had run it's course.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
With the addition of Andrew Gore on
drums, his songwriting skills and multi-talented music abilities
really moved the founding members to start fresh.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Vanisher was a name change of purpose.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
In an interview, vocalist/bassist
Justin Reich states: "We really couldn't be happier with the
current state of this band...for a while there things were looking
kind of bleak and we really felt like everything we were doing was
just, well fake. Nothing made sense.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Everything with Vanisher from the
newer songs that we are writing to the older Zero System songs we are
revamping seems to finally click. We are doing this because it is
what we love to do, not what someone else wants us to do. Now with
Tribunal working with us, we really feel like this is our niche and
can't wait to see what grows from it"</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
These guys are as professional as it
gets. Reich also runs a video production company called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=356860674370598&set=a.356860664370599.81454.154756467914354&type=1" target="_blank">Antimatter Studios</a> and produced and directed the band's videos.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Odell produced, recorded and engineered
their CD through his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=306680312720561&set=a.306680302720562.76480.151459204909340&type=1" target="_blank">production company</a>, Attack Time Recordings.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Visit their website here: <a href="http://www.thisisvanisher.com/home/">http://www.thisisvanisher.com/home/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
HERE'S THE VIDEO FOR VANISHER'S
“REACTION”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/mU0_5VgNFsk/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mU0_5VgNFsk&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mU0_5VgNFsk&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-13371621669134752222012-08-02T14:00:00.000-07:002012-08-02T14:00:01.239-07:00LOCAL MUSIC: Weekend Shows<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwDgFqeAcucnenjcMYiYfmOQQm3ILNpQGbfh3lZRTDFod8I95q3MfuS5tEOvd5N0KxvOQeQWdpPzX4ux6WZKrZkOh9EB_z2AUVDeKMAmWoHOGl2lE8s4wYb4qBMVgnbv_PhypjUr9k7E/s1600/536155_128321240635858_312303481_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwDgFqeAcucnenjcMYiYfmOQQm3ILNpQGbfh3lZRTDFod8I95q3MfuS5tEOvd5N0KxvOQeQWdpPzX4ux6WZKrZkOh9EB_z2AUVDeKMAmWoHOGl2lE8s4wYb4qBMVgnbv_PhypjUr9k7E/s320/536155_128321240635858_312303481_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scotty McMeans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Scotty McMeans has signed on to write
about local bands and local shows for the music segment of The
Signal. Scotty is a musician and a passionate promoter of our local
music scene here in Galax and the surrounding region.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Scotty has been playing guitar for 25
years, including stints in blacklist and Cult of Dionysis.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“I have had the opportunity and
pleasure to meet and play with some very incredible people, musicians
and bands,” he said. “I enjoy a variety of music from acoustic to
extreme metal.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you want to promote local bands and
shows, you can find Scotty on Facebook at
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/omegashredax">https://www.facebook.com/omegashredax</a>.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Please feel free to post anything
about your band or shows on my site. I support local music and do my
best to help spread the word about bands I like.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
To start off, here's a list of shows
coming up for Aug. 3-4</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>FRIDAY, AUG. 3</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• Summer Slaughter Tour</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTMdmqUk2HAQuj80U6gzKWTw-mFgDH8G24R0hEVchEG-N6x3TkqhI6FFBXCS2bjhedm254uHAEKNQpGi9hJlk61t9-51Mo0ivmb8WqU2kqjoAfZ6Y9T_OCr1BFrr-ZLVo7Ds7W2F7uM8/s1600/Steppin+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_847006018">https://www.facebook.com/events/140419052749894/</a><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
• Steppin' Out Blacksburg<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_847006020">https://www.facebook.com/events/374120205976729/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_847006022">https://www.facebook.com/events/382263795168769/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• The Contortionist/Jeff Loomis</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_847006024">https://www.facebook.com/events/401091003271133/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>SATURDAY, AUG. 4</b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• Static X with Prong</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_847006026">https://www.facebook.com/events/307809839315475/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
• Scott Leftwich and the Atarians
(acoustic)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_847006028">https://www.facebook.com/events/314500561965600/</a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-14672433174395990102012-08-01T15:09:00.000-07:002012-08-01T15:09:01.861-07:00Custom Figures: Steampunk<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2xgiLks-XjO64aJahg-vT4zSMwiLWOHQtIehJtaqN46fKO-Q33N4DIMGsPhRMehLvKh8BuPsuBsoLjD18g0awY5asQ5RPikURcmMm7nKBR8VPbhdczzHm53r5vCAalm-nIc8K3rZkYg/s1600/ProjectSteampunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2xgiLks-XjO64aJahg-vT4zSMwiLWOHQtIehJtaqN46fKO-Q33N4DIMGsPhRMehLvKh8BuPsuBsoLjD18g0awY5asQ5RPikURcmMm7nKBR8VPbhdczzHm53r5vCAalm-nIc8K3rZkYg/s320/ProjectSteampunk.jpg" width="220" /></a>When I was a kid, I never considered any of my toys "broken."<br />
If they were missing a leg or a head, I considered it an opportunity to make that toy unique by "fixing" it.<br />
I'd tape, glue or wire another appendage on there, giving G.I. Joe a robot arm from a Star Wars figure, or just attaching a bunch of parts together for a Frankenstein figure of my own creation.<br />
Over the years, since I never stopped collecting toys and action figures, I began turning this skill into more of an art form. Since then, I've found thousands of others who build, sculpt and adapt existing figures into characters who don't have their own toys, better versions or existing figures or what I do, which is create new characters from parts.<br />
It takes months, sometimes years, to find the right parts, or figure out what to make from a box of assorted loose parts.<br />
<br />
My most recent series is a Steampunk-inspired set of four figures. Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that basically involves a Victorian-era setting, but with technology — steam, clockwork, coal, electricity — that's a bit more advanced than we had in the 1800s, though still mostly plausible. Think H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine" or Jules Verne's "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea."<br />
I decided that Steampunk, with its amalgamation of different parts, is perfectly suited to the do-it-yourself spirit of custom figure building.<br />
<br />
So, I settled on four archetypes of Steampunk fiction — the Mechanic, the Adventurer, the Scientist and the Automaton — and built examples of each.<br />
I'm really happy with the way they turned out. I showed them last year at D&J Hobby's annual model show in Galax, and won first place in my division. My only regret is that I didn't take any photos of the building and painting process.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM97uWCmvIBiDMG1Th-d7Fc1v01eTuEmYNAt8zTH-_7zJVOtkaamCyx7VaF459KqCSwSdgA63pntE1qL73_tSFxKbTFHjNKmwU4xRyYbd5-fWwLo4lAWbMjh-nNUtS5aXUhX_0ede2og/s1600/100_6882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM97uWCmvIBiDMG1Th-d7Fc1v01eTuEmYNAt8zTH-_7zJVOtkaamCyx7VaF459KqCSwSdgA63pntE1qL73_tSFxKbTFHjNKmwU4xRyYbd5-fWwLo4lAWbMjh-nNUtS5aXUhX_0ede2og/s200/100_6882.JPG" width="150" /></a><b>The Lady Adventurer</b><br />
<i>The lovely and devious master thief Victoria Dare will steal your heart — and your valuables!</i><br />
Victoria was made from a base figure of an "X-Men: The Last Stand" Phoenix body, a head from a "Danger Girl" figure, a Penguin tophat and more bits and pieces than I can count.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgww4WGgD367Y5ALWnQKtvtj1B3QNdP3W5v6AnhPdkpgkN_6XjkFnnA3zP00nYbG50gRgl1_RbJajsrU6J1n7QeGh5AJ94FsMOX8Na-JQP8JX-YM_Sd55W0UbR6UvYN2JhENUerPoHYbAk/s1600/100_6888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgww4WGgD367Y5ALWnQKtvtj1B3QNdP3W5v6AnhPdkpgkN_6XjkFnnA3zP00nYbG50gRgl1_RbJajsrU6J1n7QeGh5AJ94FsMOX8Na-JQP8JX-YM_Sd55W0UbR6UvYN2JhENUerPoHYbAk/s200/100_6888.JPG" width="200" /></a><b>The Time Traveler</b><br />
<i>The unparalleled genius of Professor Julian Welles has thrust him into the distant past and far future!</i><br />
The base body is a Joker figure from "The Dark Knight" movie line, with a Wesley head from a "Buffy" figure (with added sideburns!) and an assortment of toy parts, watch parts, gears and junk to make the control panel for his time machine.<br />
I'm actually planning to expand this to include a larger time machine platform.<br />
I took the Professor's name from the two great writers, Jules Verne (Julian) and H.G. Wells.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4MjNzJyL0wdDaC9mvs6xVRPnaEJpI_lbPsWPq9-yk-wGoxj-loZZyGKzn3AgKuOmX5MCWZaM0nkMPnO-u50pA3mLwGcK66PfJ5BOFJuJbT9kLWeoN7-VYxDnnfPR4rBjFhkIM-aQQUU/s1600/100_6905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4MjNzJyL0wdDaC9mvs6xVRPnaEJpI_lbPsWPq9-yk-wGoxj-loZZyGKzn3AgKuOmX5MCWZaM0nkMPnO-u50pA3mLwGcK66PfJ5BOFJuJbT9kLWeoN7-VYxDnnfPR4rBjFhkIM-aQQUU/s200/100_6905.JPG" width="150" /></a><b>The Fixer</b><br />
<i>Kate McKenna, the tom-boyish mistress of mechanics, has the tools to build anything she sets her mind to!</i><br />
Kate here is my second-favorite of the bunch, after Victoria. Her last name was meant to evoke the word "mechanic," because that's what she is — a woman with the ability to build anything she can conceive.<br />
She's built from an X-Men "Lady Deathstrike" base body, the head of a DC Direct "Power Girl," a coat from a "Pirates of the Caribbean" figure and so much more. Her lightning gun is custom-made, as well.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6QFtcxsgw6baCKfboXgeda31Gc-3SIdoNe-XX7GLJpQGZ04yJpraoI_QlD60NuyqN0cliC3KhkWXJV22BgJPHxTdnXb3j3JTSLoOVTy_5v5p1lsSOZvfcMBN83mXoZmQ8LF-kcDkwWY/s1600/100_6896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6QFtcxsgw6baCKfboXgeda31Gc-3SIdoNe-XX7GLJpQGZ04yJpraoI_QlD60NuyqN0cliC3KhkWXJV22BgJPHxTdnXb3j3JTSLoOVTy_5v5p1lsSOZvfcMBN83mXoZmQ8LF-kcDkwWY/s200/100_6896.JPG" width="150" /></a><b>The Mechano-Man</b><br />
<i>Behold! This armored automaton is modern science's answer to safer warfare and exploration!</i><br />
I envisioned this guy as something that would be shown off at the World's Fair, a mass-produced robot for heavy work.<br />
He's made from an X-Men "Avalanche" figure, with a modified Iron Man head, a custom-made sonic drill gun and a variety of assorted junk.<br />
<br />
I'll be posting some more pics of custom projects. I have a line of classic monsters (Frankenstein and Werewolf so far, Dracula in the works) that I'll show soon, as well as some random characters of my own creation. I'm also expanding the Steampunk series into new territory (The Old West) and I'll try to post in-process pics along the way.<br />
Enjoy, and anyone with questions about building or painting custom figures, you can contact me at bfunksignal@gmail.com<br />
<br />
<i>CLICK BELOW FOR SLIDESHOW:</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwsoQGD-iCWhtYHG5Q51mkblKPeR-RTFfUwZVDAxHglCf9B-BgfwurJBMozAnUn0bRaAjQQN6r_E2640dLe_Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-31311536481478461382012-07-31T11:59:00.003-07:002012-07-31T11:59:51.811-07:00Sexy Beasts<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWC99lAcYc38-xli6tNJFoo2FVqbqGYlcrMxgJUe7dBZXLgCwtQOgPfCuUSXkLCnvbPzq5_Ochlarkb6BFyhxNni54qylI_M-MVxTm8sWUezjMVBMBTkZ1bdLODuqh00qkGo2ixXfzz8/s1600/599735_503968539618356_283975355_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWC99lAcYc38-xli6tNJFoo2FVqbqGYlcrMxgJUe7dBZXLgCwtQOgPfCuUSXkLCnvbPzq5_Ochlarkb6BFyhxNni54qylI_M-MVxTm8sWUezjMVBMBTkZ1bdLODuqh00qkGo2ixXfzz8/s200/599735_503968539618356_283975355_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>I just found the Facebook page for New Jersey-based Creative Beast Studio, maker of some incredible dinosaur, dragon and fantasy statues, model kits, T-shirts and figures.<br />
<br />
Check out their amazing work here:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Creative-Beast-Studio/113487525333128">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Creative-Beast-Studio/113487525333128</a><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831857622671823175.post-81274378636890505482012-07-31T10:09:00.000-07:002012-08-02T18:13:59.269-07:00This Week's Comics: Aug. 1, 2012<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpE4gr5sdMazSt_EMgPdWwie-M9n8VxlZvEbi-x7pRUMH-PQ3sfWWv-MMDNDCWR_2883CUEuNX2rtnI670RtG8qp9yT5AbE1hfWx9RHZTMjgwW17ou4PYGTst6ivu6051zG1NK_YD2KQ/s1600/niteowl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpE4gr5sdMazSt_EMgPdWwie-M9n8VxlZvEbi-x7pRUMH-PQ3sfWWv-MMDNDCWR_2883CUEuNX2rtnI670RtG8qp9yT5AbE1hfWx9RHZTMjgwW17ou4PYGTst6ivu6051zG1NK_YD2KQ/s320/niteowl2.jpg" width="208" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Hurm...."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here's a list of comics shipping this Wednesday, from a great online resource called <b><a href="http://www.comiclist.com/index.php" target="_blank">ComicList</a></b>.<br />
<br />
They keep an ongoing and accurate listing of what's coming each week, the next week and well into the future, as well as shipping changes and cancellations.<br />
<br />
In what I'm not even going to pretend isn't a shameless plug, check out the ComicList and then go see our good friends at <b>D&J Hobby</b> in Galax. If Darrell doesn't carry it — ASK FOR IT!<br />
<br />
This week's books include DC's phenomenal horror/superhero sagas <b>Swamp Thing</b> and <b>Animal Man</b>, as the stories in both books begin to merge into one epic. These books have been two of the biggest surprises of DC's "New 52" initiative, and are worth checking out.<br />
<br />
Also from DC this week is the second issue of <b>Before Watchmen: Nite Owl</b>. The overall quality of this series of prequel books has been superior, especially Comedian and Ozymandias, which is no surprise given the caliber of creators involved. I'm enjoying them all the more for the thoughts of Alan Moore pulling out his beard in righteous indignity over DC <i>daring</i> to write new stories about characters <i>they</i> own.<br />
I mean, the audacity! Don't they know he's a genius? Just ask him.<br />
<br />
Marvels <b>Avengers vs. X-Men</b> event rolls on with issue #9, in which the mutants find themselves corrupted by the all-consuming power of The Phoenix, even as they try to remake the world into a better place.<br />
(They should have asked Spider-Man about that whole "great power/great responsibility" thing. No one ever listens to Peter...)<br />
<br />
Also shipping is the first issue of Marvel's promising new <b>Hawkeye</b> solo series, sure to get some attention for its gritty feel and the character's wider exposure from The Avengers movie.<br />
<br />
But in what's sure to be the must-buy book of the week, Boom! Studios is releasing <b>Garfield #4</b> today. I hear there's a shocking revelation in this one...<br />
<br />
!!SPOILER ALERT!!<br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<b><i>Garfield also hates Tuesdays</i>.</b><br />
<br />
<i>Brian</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10064298996052013885noreply@blogger.com2