Enlightened Words

Hail To The KING!, Baby V 2.4

2011-01-17T00:04:00.000-05:00

Artpatient.com says: "Last issue had peanut butter and banana burritos and foreshadowing. This time we get plot twists, more foreshadowing and a chocolate pudgy wudgy. And the story only gets bigger from here. It’s a good time to check out The King."

Newsarama Says: "In the first issue, our hero in gold-rims took on zombies, and in this go-around he’s hired to dispatch some unruly bloodsuckers in a small south-of-the-border town. Fisticuffs and shotgun blasts ensue, and when the smoke clears, it turns out the job is only just beginning. Fantastic artwork and a whole lotta fun. Buy this book!"

Robot 13 Nominated for Publishing Innovation Award!

2011-01-16T16:09:00.003-05:00

Digital Book World has announced their long list for their first annual Publishing Innovation awards, and Robot 13 made the cut for Digital Comics! Check the press release here!

Hail To The KING!, Baby V 2.3

2011-01-15T11:49:00.003-05:00

Wired's Geek Dad Says: " King! is a wild and crazy monster-fest featuring none other than the King himself. Armed with a couple of oversized revolvers, “Rock” and “Roll” brass knuckles and a healthy ego, the pompadoured hero fights zombies in the first issue and vampires in the second. Hall and Bradford are the folks behind Robot 13, and King! is drawn in the same style—angular, lots of black, big splash pages of action."

Major Spoilers Says: "I have to say that I enjoyed the hell out of this book, and wish that I could get my dose of King! on a monthly basis, simply for the entertainment value alone. King! is a perfect synthesis of pop-culture iconography, and serves as a likeable center for the tales we’ve seen so far."

GhettoManga Says: "The Blacklist Studios crew of Thomas Hall and Daniel Bradford do another good job of bringing the exploits of their (so far) nameless hero to the printed page. Hall's writing folds bits of character development into the story to keep it moving along, and Bradford continues to experiment with the combination of horror imagery and action comedy that made the first issue work."

'KING!' lays a rock and roll smackdown on evil!

2011-01-13T11:43:00.001-05:00

I was recently interviewed by USA Today about the hot new series KING! that all the cool kids are reading. As of right now, the article has been on their website HERE for only a little while, but the email, phone & Twitter are blowing up...

Hail To The KING!, Baby V 2.2

2010-12-18T19:11:00.002-05:00

Undead Backbrain Says: "The textual/visual narrative flow is even smoother than in the previous issue and the humour more finely tuned, which makes King! issue 2 loads of fun and a pleasure to read. With the introduction of some of King’s personal history as a wrestler and as the arcing storyline ramps up, there’s no reason for any comic fan not to take the series in a loving stranglehold and clutch it to their metaphorical breast."

Broken Frontier Says: " The floating heart (does something like that even bother having a name?) warns that these vampires, just like the zombies before it, are only the beginning to a great impending darkness. Isn’t that the way it always goes? Perhaps, but Hall and Bradford handle it so well that I wouldn’t have it any other way."

Hail To The KING!, Baby V 2.1

2010-12-16T19:01:00.001-05:00

Spanky Stokes Says: "Gotta love zombies, vampires, and the King! kicking a$$ and taking names!"

Infinite Hollywood Says: "I give it a hearty recommendation for anyone who likes Hellboy, Evil Dead, Bad Asses or anything that's trippy fun."

Jalopy Says: "Bradford's art continues to evolve. Though not illustrating armored skulls pounding mythological monstrosities here, he is instead challenged with a comedic horror set-up, with an increasingly sublime and sinister aim. He is illustrating, simply put, what Bubba Ho-tep could've/should've been. His forms are elongated and sharp, perhaps owing moreso to the Vampire Hunter D anime than to assorted works from Mike Mignola or Guy Davis (both artists who have obviously influenced Bradford's earlier work). It's dark stuff, quite stylish. And the humor of it all never crosses over into falling anvils territory."

KING! Issue 2 to drop December 27th!!!

2010-12-14T18:42:00.000-05:00

IT’S NEVER A “BLUE CHRISTMAS”
WHEN “KING!” IS ON THE CASE!

Rock ‘n Roll Monster Hunter makes the Perfect Stocking Stuffer!

BUTLER, NJ (December, 2010) – ‘Twas the week during Christmas and in comic shops, hardly any new comics had even come out. The shelves were all lined with the prior week’s fare while customers wished some fresh ink would appear. When what to their wondering eyes should appear but a side-burned cool rocker displaying no fear. The King had come back to kick more monster butt and fans were relieved of the same old dull rut!

This holiday season, give that special someone in your life the gift that keeps on giving… a whupping! Yes, “KING!” is back with issue #2 and he’s ready to make burrito meat out of zombies and vampires everywhere.

“When I think of holiday heroes, I can’t help but think of ex-pro wrestlers who look like Elvis keeping the world safe from bloodsucking freaks,” says “KING!” artist/co-creator Daniel Bradford.

“’KING!’ is the perfect character to spread holiday cheer,” adds writer/co-creator Thomas Hall.

To that end, Blacklist Studios is wishing all their fans the happiest of holidays as they release the second action-packed issue of “KING!” during the usually slow week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

“Traditionally the larger distributors don’t ship during the holidays,” explains Hall, “so we decided to make something new and exciting available to comics fans so they don’t have to leave their LCS empty-handed!”

“KING!” #2 picks up where the last issue left off. Having dispatched a horde of demonic zombies from his favorite Blubber Tubber Burger ‘n Burrito joint, KING! now basks in the glory as he spins the tale in all is gory detail. But he hasn’t seen the last of the zombies… and worse, he’s been summoned to a nearby village that just happens to have one hell of a flying pest problem… the kind of pests that like to suck blood!

Like their breakout hit “R-13,” the hero of the duo’s new series is adept at dispatching monsters. But unlike Robot-13, “KING!” knows all too well who he is… and he’s not afraid to have some fun as he bashes the baddies in this decidedly “comic” book.

“The ways that KING! kills monsters are only limited by our imaginations,” says Bradford, “and if you haven’t been paying attention, Tom and I have some pretty messed-up imaginations… but in a good way, of course!”

“Look, this guy looks like Elvis, battles monsters for bucks and is ready to read the riot act to anyone who gets in the way of his mouth and a burrito,” confirms Hall. “Can it get any more ‘comic’-al than this?”

Adding to the fun are pulse-pounding pin-ups from fan-favorites Jeff Slemons (“Hollow Earth,” “Beyond: Rude Awakening”) and AP. Furtado (“Heavy Metal,” “Elf ‘n Troll”).

Fans don’t have to stop with “KING!” comics, however – there’s also a KING! t-shirt available on the Blacklist Studios website. No one will mess with you when staring at the pistol-packin’, pompadour sportin’ monster killer on your chest!

The print edition of KING! #2 can be pre-ordered directly from Blacklist Studios (www.blackliststudios.com). The 32-page, full color comic retails for $3.99 US. Back issues of KING! and R-13 are also available on the Blacklist site. For wholesale purchases, distributors and retailers are encouraged to email Blacklist Studios’ Thomas Hall at tom@blackliststudios.com or contact Tony Shenton at shenton4sales@aol.com for terms and information.

About Blacklist Studios
Blacklist Studios publishes the comics KING! and R-13. Visit their official website at www.blackliststudios.com.

Breaking the Michael Jordan Rule

2010-11-18T15:09:00.003-05:00

What do the "Jordan Rules," Zuda and YOUR chances of "breaking in" to Comics have in common? Read all about it HERE!

Tweets To My 16 Year Old Self

2010-11-11T10:37:00.002-05:00

What would I want to tell my 16 year old self about Indy Comics?

Read all about it HERE!

Just Say No To NaNoWriMo

2010-11-04T04:40:00.003-04:00

Write a novel in a Month? Make a Comic in 24 Hours?

Sounds like a trap to me!

Read all about the controversy HERE.

Giving Up On The High Life

2010-10-21T15:46:00.002-04:00

Want your piece of the High Life? Take a gander at THIS and think again...

The Secret Value of Scott Baio

2010-10-14T16:20:00.000-04:00

Who's House?Charrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrles' House!

Read all about being "in charge" HERE.

NYCC Aftermath!

2010-10-11T17:26:00.002-04:00

New York Comic Con is Ova, and Daniel & I survived to tell the tale! We had a great show thanks to all of YOU who stopped by and shared your love of all things Blacklist with us!

Aparently, one of "YOU" was none other than Whitney Matheson, writer for the amazingly cool PopCandy at USA Today. She named KING! as one of the "5 Awesome Comics I Found at New York Comic Con."

But every one of YOU who stopped by was very encouraging and we were happy to talk to all of you who braved the record crowds to come see us in Artist Alley.

Thank you for making our Con a huge success!

Blacklist Studios Invades New York Comic Con!!!

2010-10-07T14:32:00.002-04:00

Daniel Bradford and I will be at the New York Comic Con, October 8th through October 10th at the Jacob Javits Center in NYC. We will have copies of Robot 13 and KING!, as well as prints, buttons and other fun surprises! Stop by Artist Alley table K-13 and say hello!

Listen To Your Mother...

2010-10-07T04:20:00.002-04:00

Heed a little "Motherly" advice... check THIS out NOW!

FORBIDDEN PLANET NYC TUES. OCT. 12 SIGNING 6-7 PM

2010-10-04T09:29:00.004-04:00

Daniel and I will be signing copies of KING! and Robot 13 at Forbidden Planet in NYC on Tuesday, October 12th from 6-7 PM. If you can't make it to the New York Comic Con or just want to see us again, please stop by- This will be our only East Coast In-Store Signing together for the rest of 2010, so if you snooze, you lose!

Forbidden Planet
840 Broadway
New York, NY 10003
United States
212.473.1576

SUBWAY
4 5 6 L N R Q
to 14th St. Union Square

HOURS
Sunday 10am - 10pm
Monday 10am - 10pm
Tuesday 10am - 10pm
Wednesday 9am - 12am
Thursday 10am - 12am
Friday 10am - 12am
Saturday 10am - 12am

Forbidden Planet is consistantly voted as one of the best Comic Shops in the US- Come by and see why!

No Rest For The Wicked

2010-09-30T16:06:00.000-04:00

Do you need me to tell you there is no rest for the wicked?

Didn't think so... But read THIS anyway...

The Difference Between "May" and "Can"

2010-09-24T11:56:00.001-04:00

Learn what a simple Grade School English lesson can teach you about your Indy Comics aspirations here...

Dreaming Up A Dirt Nap

2010-09-16T16:20:00.002-04:00

Read THIS before it's too late...

ROBOT 13: COLLOSSO!

2010-09-11T04:20:00.002-04:00

Critically-acclaimed mini-series collection slated for October release from Italian publisher BAO

BUTLER, NJ (September, 2010) – One of the most talked-about indie comics of recent years is R-13, aka Robot-13. The story of a skull-headed robot with an irresistible instinct to battle mythological creatures captured the imaginations of comic book fans the world over. The ensuing coverage was widespread, well beyond the expectations of its co-creators, writer Thomas Hall and artist Daniel Bradford of Blacklist Studios.

“It’s really taken on a life of its own,” said Hall. “We have been interviewed by reporters from websites in Germany and Australia, seen our book raved about by Spanish and Portuguese comic reviewers and magazines in Canada and the UK have done pieces on Robot 13.”

Among R-13’s many champions is MTV’s Rick Marshall, an editor of the network’s movie, pop culture and comic book news site, “The Splash Page.” Rick called R-13 the “Best Under-the-Radar Comic Series” to debut in 2009.

This October, readers in Italy will have an opportunity to discover what all the excitement is about with the release of the ROBOT-13 COLOSSO! trade paperback collection from Italian publisher BAO. The collection will mark the first time the “R-13: Colossus” comic book mini-series has been compiled in paperback form.

BAO will debut the collection during Italy’s premier pop culture event, the Lucca Comics & Games 2010 convention, held in the medieval city of Lucca, in the Tuscan hills. ROBOT 13: COLOSSO! will premiere alongside BAO’s other Fall new releases, including a hardcover edition of Jeff Smith and Charles Vess’s “Rose” and Mike Allred’s “Red Rocket 7.”

“A relatively unknown property such as “ROBOT 13” represents BAO’s attempt to bring more attention to a title that is absolutely deserving of sitting on the same shelves as the works of such a parade of illuminati,” says Michele Foschini, Publishing Manager of BAO Publishing. “Thanks to the positive word of mouth on American fan press, BAO was the first foreign publisher to offer Blacklist an international deal, and is proud of the honor.”

The 6,2″ x 9,45″ square-bound paperback includes 96 full color pages and retails for eleven euros. It features a white matte laminated cover with an all-new illustration by Daniel Bradford specially created for this edition. The book will be made available to specialty comics and graphic arts stores throughout Europe and in regular chain and independent bookstores, thanks to BAO’s integrated distribution system, provided by Alastor and De Agostini, two of Italy’s distribution powerhouses.

“We are very pleased to have a company like BAO handle our first ever paperback collection,” says Robot 13 writer Thomas Hall. “Their past work shows how devoted they are to quality representations of American comics for European audiences.”

BAO’s work has not gone unnoticed. Recently the company was chosen by Planeta DeAgostini to be their exclusive supplier of Italian translations for their entire DC Comics line.

Packed with action, intrigue and poignancy, the “Colossus!” storyline is just the beginning of what Hall and Bradford plan to be an ongoing saga for their robot hero.

“We’ve only partially revealed R-13’s origins and the meaning behind his mission,” teases Hall. “There are more stories to tell about this skull-headed robot warrior. It may sound clichéd but it truly is an epic-in-the-making!”

FROM 1ST COMIC NEWS

Superheroes For Hospice Event: Sept. 11 Mounmouth Mall

2010-09-10T11:10:00.002-04:00

I will be at the Monmouth Mall in New Jersey this Saturday, September 11th as part of the "Heroes for Hospice" fundrasing effort. I'll have copies of KING! as well as some Robot 13's and free buttons while they last. In addition, there will be other Comic creators and a massive motherload of super cheap back issues to buy, and everything raised goes to help the St. Barnabas Hospice program.

It's an amazing cause to be a part of- people in need of the St. Barnabas Hospice program need our support... and if you can walk away with awesome Comics in the bargan? Win/Win my friends!

Hope to see you there!

For more info, check out the official announcement HERE.

The Magican's Nephew

2010-09-09T10:55:00.000-04:00

Do you believe in Magic?

Check out today's Indy Comic FAIL here and find out why there IS no "Magic" to making Comics...

The Customer Is Always Right!

2010-09-02T14:06:00.001-04:00

Want to know how following an old Customer Service cliche will drive you to mental and financial ruin? Read all about it HERE!

KING! #1: The Famous Monsters of Filmland Review!

2010-08-30T20:46:00.004-04:00

Growing up, I was a fanatic for Famous Monsters of Filmland.

Back in the day, if you wanted to really KNOW about Monster movies, FM was the magazine that had everything. Famous Monsters not only covered the current Monster and Sci-Fi fare, but you got in-depth looks at obscure films and crazy behind-the-scenes stuff as well... I remember sitting in my basement, reading our stack of FM's and dreaming of a day when some story I created would be talked about in it's pages.

Recently, IDW has re-launched FM and the crazy thing is that in some small part my childhood dream has come true- the FM website has reviewed KING! #1...

Among other things, the reviewer said, "...the simplicity of KING! is what makes the story work, for the King himself is a simple man. He obviously likes to lounge around in his chonies at his home in the desert, and on occasion kill various types of menacing monsters and demons hell bent on destroying mankind. Though his mode of transportation is the bus, the King gets around and you bet I’m going to follow him on the journey wherever it may lead baby. And you should too."

What more do I need to say? Check out the rest of the review here, and don't forget to pick up FM at your local comic shop or wherever magazines are sold...

Hail To The King, Baby! Part 3

2010-08-29T18:07:00.005-04:00

Omnicomic Says: "I can easily see fans of We Kill Monsters or Johnny Bravo really loving this book. I know that Bravo was somewhat based on Elvis and I get the same vibe from King as a character: a little dimwitted but strong enough that he can pretty much power through any situation. "

GhettoManga Says: "maybe the Blacklist cats wear their influences on their sleeves, but they are influenced by awesome comics, so it's all good! Anyways, Bradford's art is consistent and fun. I liked his stuff on Robot13, but it works even better here, where his sense of humor is really put to good use. Like Lobo or Hellboy, Bradford's King is as much a monstrous freak as the undead beasts he ventilates..."

Newsarama says: "I love this book. It's another hit-on-the-screws home run by the same creative team behind the fantastic R-13 that I've gushed about in the past (and I'm jonesing to have collected in a trade paperback). A bounty hunter that looks like Elvis may be the gimmick, but it's the personality that Thomas Hall injects into the character and the story that makes this offbeat book laugh out loud funny in spots and the best thing I've read since, well, okay, since R-13. "

Fight For Your Right To Party

2010-08-26T04:20:00.000-04:00

You believe in NEVER giving up? Do you think Change=Sellout? Ch-Ch-Check out this week's Indy Comic Book FAIL here and you may change your mind...

Do Not Pass Go

2010-08-19T16:20:00.001-04:00

Can't make any progress? The Indy Comics "Man" keeping you down? Learn about what's REALLY blocking you from finishing your Comic Book EPIC here...

Hail To The King, Baby! Part 2

2010-08-12T08:01:00.004-04:00

Broken Frontier says: "I’m surprised to be saying this, but part of me likes KING! more than Robot 13, and I love Robot 13. They have a lot in common—armies of monsters, an oddball hero, weirdo supporting characters—but Robot 13 is somewhat solemn where KING! is simply humorous. I appreciate both books very much, but in this instance, I’m siding with the funny one."

Diamond Scoop says: "King! #1, which features an Elvis-like title character who is a former pro wrestler turned bounty hunter, seems like it could be a superb blend of Hellboy and TNT’s new show Memphis Beat. We hope we’ll be seeing more of it in the very near future."

Hail To The King, Baby! Part 1

2010-08-07T12:12:00.002-04:00

Jalopy Says: "This antihero is an ex-wrestler turned bounty hunter and shooter of...things. He's living on the border when he gets recruited by a flying organ to fend off an interdimensional raid from the grounds of a fast food place. Then the situation turns weird."

Major Spoilers says: "The story gets moving from this point, with monsters, peanut butter and banana burritos and a few surprises along the way, and is a remarkably enjoyable ride."(4 out of 5 stars)

Comic Attack Says: "There are some great team-ups in the world of comic books: Wolfman and Perez, Eastman and Laird, Lee and Kirby, and now Hall-Bradford. Hall and Bradford have teamed up to create a series that is funny, ass-kicking, and explosive!"

Speedball Kills!

2010-08-05T23:14:00.001-04:00

Today's lesson in Comic Book Failure? Don't Be A "Speedball!" Check it out here!

KING! Issue 1 To Drop August 16th!!!

2010-08-03T11:11:00.000-04:00

R-13 CREATORS SERVE UP A HUNKA’ HUNKA’ BURNIN’ FUN WITH MONSTER-KILLER “KING!”

King of Rock ‘n Roll becomes King of Sock ‘em All!

BUTLER, NJ (August 3, 2010) – Writer Thomas Hall and artist Daniel Bradford of Blacklist Studios, creators of one of the most acclaimed independent comics of recent years return this August with the release of “KING!”

Like their breakout hit “R-13,” the hero of the duo’s new series is adept at dispatching monsters. But unlike Robot-13, “KING!” knows all too well who he is… and he’s not afraid to have some fun as he bashes the baddies in this decidedly “comic” book.

“Daniel and I really enjoy the intricacies and depths of the R-13 mythology, and love conveying the universal emotions that story engenders,” says Hall. “But we’re also fans of comedy and monsters and KING! gives us the chance to go over-the-top in ways that reflect the comic books and movies we grew up with.”

“I get to draw bad-asses, brains, big guns and burritos… what could be better?” adds Bradford.

KING! #1 tells the story of a former pro wrestler-turned-bounty hunter who bears more than a striking resemblance to a certain “King of Rock ‘n Roll.” All he wants is a whole day of nuthin’. All he gets is a hunka’ hunka’ talkin’ heart in the mail… and the tale the heart tells is nothing short of epic. Can KING! simultaneously save the local Blubber Tubber Burger joint from an undead infestation and satisfy his hunger for a peanut butter banana burrito with bacon?

Now fans of Blacklist Studios, Robot 13 and Elvis Presley can have their burritos and eat them too when the first issue of KING! #1 is released on August 16, 2010 – just in time for the 33rd anniversary of the real King’s passing!
For fans who want their wardrobe to be as cool as the comic they’re reading, there’s also a KING! t-shirt available on the Blacklist Studios website. No one will mess with you when staring at the pistol-packin’, pompadour sportin’ monster killer on your chest!

The print edition of KING! #1 can be pre-ordered directly from Blacklist Studios (www.blackliststudios.com). The 32-page, full color comic retails for $3.99 US. For wholesale purchases, distributors and retailers are encouraged to email Blacklist Studios’ Thomas Hall at tom@blackliststudios.com or contact Tony Shenton at shenton4sales@aol.com for terms and information.

About Blacklist Studios
Blacklist Studios publishes the comics KING! and R-13. Visit their official website at www.blackliststudios.com.

Robot 13 Breaks 100,000 download mark on mobiles!

2010-08-02T22:58:00.002-04:00

In a world where mainstream comic book titles routinely top the digital download charts, one challenger has risen like David against Goliath to stake its claim: Robot 13 by Thomas Hall and Daniel Bradford has just become one of the first independently produced comics to push past the 100,000 download mark!

A true-blue indie label comic garnering 100,000+ readers is an unparalleled triumph for both independents and digital comics alike. There are few such comics that make it onto Diamonds’ Top 300 for any given month, and none that rise above the 10,000 order mark. Robot 13, on the Android market alone, is now outperforming brand name comic strip apps and even the majority of comic viewers (with the exception of Robot Comics‘ own Droid Comic Viewer, of course)!

“Robot 13 is a truly Independent Comics success story,” Blacklist Studios’ Co-Owner and Robot 13 Co-Creator Thomas Hall said. “Everything was done without Diamond’s distribution or outside funding, and was the product of two guys making Comics they wanted to see as fans.”

“Sure, we knew the book was pretty good,” Blacklist Studios’ Co-Owner and Robot 13’s Co-Creator Daniel Bradford continued. “But who could know we would get that level of interest? It was more than anyone could have expected.”

Robot 13 already proved itself a fan-favorite with traditional print readers, selling out of its first issue and garnering solid sales for its second and third. With its genre-blending story, grand-scale action, and lush Gothic artwork, Robot Comics knew it would be a hit with mobile readers as well. But we didn’t want to stop there:

“We decided that R13 was the perfect vehicle to debut our latest technology,” Robot Comics’ Deputy Director, Dave Baxter comments. “So on top of the comic’s own creative merits, we wanted the mobile reading experience to be, appropriately, just as exceptional.”

“When we talked to Robot Comics, they started telling us what they had in mind for Robot 13,” Hall said. “We were both blown away, because we didn’t know of anyone who was pushing mobile Comics so far. This was more than just viewing a PDF… it was a totally new hybrid Comics experience.”

Robot 13 was the first comic on either iTunes or Android to combine frame-by-frame animation, a wide-range of transition effects, and vibration into a single package.

“We’ve since gone even further with our Scott Pilgrim app,” Baxter adds. “But Robot 13 was and is a ground-breaking beginning for pushing the boundaries on what a mobile comic can be. And I think readers are responding to that, as well as the incredible quality of Tom and Daniel’s craftsmanship.”

The success of Robot 13’s 100,000+ downloads hint toward yet another positive trend: new readers. By keeping the app stand-alone and not buried within a dedicated reader app, R13 managed a featured slot on both iTunes and the Android Market, and during that time a large portion of readers – as they mention in the comments left behind on the app’s market listing – are not normally comic readers, and their response to R13 is largely positive.

“The key difference,” Baxter says, “Is that Robot Comics is dedicated to building apps around a brand, and not creating a storefront. A person doesn’t buy a particular comic because they know the name of their local comic shop. They buy a comic because they understand the qualities associated with the brand name. This is something that digital initiatives rarely take into consideration.”

“Since the Robot 13 App has exploded,” Hall said, “It has opened the door for new readers who want to check it out in print. Part of the reason all 3 print issues have all but sold out, is that many Mobile Comics fans want to read R13 in traditional print after enjoying the book on their phones.”

Baxter concludes: “Few of the new readers are swearing to become overnight comic fans, but it’s a step in the right direction for fulfilling digital’s promise of a new audience for comics. For many, R13 is their first or only recent comic experience. Time and quality comic apps will take it from here.”

Super Villian Team Up!

2010-07-30T09:44:00.001-04:00

Want to know how to choose a Teammate (Or a future Arch-Nemesis)? Check out this week's Indy Comic Book Fail HERE for all the details...

Robot 13 Rocks The Android Market!

2010-07-23T09:28:00.002-04:00

Robot 13 has been recieved amazingly well by Android mobile users of late- we have reached 50,000 global Android downloads and the comic is STILL going strong!

Issue 3 is now available for the Android- check out the Android market or scan the code below with your Android phone to get in on the sensation that is Robot 13 today!

The Big Pitch

2010-07-22T21:53:00.001-04:00

In Comics and in Baseball, it's ALL about Pitching. Read it here, you prissy fudgewhistle!

Sellers and Dealers

2010-07-15T21:43:00.000-04:00

Want to know how Dealing... Comic Books works? Read about it here.

Cash Rules Everything Around Me Part2

2010-07-08T21:41:00.000-04:00

More Money? More Problems? Get the scoop here...

Cash Rules Everything Around Me Part 1

2010-07-01T21:34:00.003-04:00

Think it's all about the Benjamins? How right you ARE! Check out the score HERE!

Preparing To FAIL!

2010-06-24T12:37:00.002-04:00

Which Comic Column mentions The Eisner Awards, Iron Chef and Legendary Coach John Wooden? Indy Comic Book Fail does! Read it HERE!

What's The Buzz? Tell Me What's A-Happenin'...

2010-06-17T10:03:00.006-04:00

How did the Beatles become more popular than Jesus?

Darn if I know!

What I can tell you is that Indy Comic Book FAIL gives you some solid tips on how to spread the Gospel on your comics.

Check it here!

Don't Believe The Hype!

2010-06-10T16:20:00.003-04:00

Indy Comic Book FAIL brings you a lesson in hustle- how much money CAN you make doing Indy comics? All the scoop is here!

Better Never Than Late!

2010-06-05T21:53:00.003-04:00

This week over at Indy Comic Book FAIL, we talk about why being late gets you the business end of a pimp slap! Check it here!

Phoenix Comic Con Exclusives!

2010-05-22T15:40:00.003-04:00

Blacklist Studios will be hitting the road!

From Thursday, May 27th through Sunday, May 30th, Daniel and I will be manning a booth at the Phoenix Comic Con in Phoenix Arizona! Not only will we have copies of all 3 issues of Robot 13, but we will have tons of limited edition buttons as well as TWO Phoenix Comic Con Exclusives!

First up- here is the limited edition print of Robot 13 that will ONLY be available at the Phoenix Comic Con! It's in gorgous full color, limited to 100, signed... and is highway robbery at only $10 each!

Next up- we can tease you no more! YES, we will be selling a limited edition of 100 pieces KING! shirt- it's full color on a beautiful, 100% cotton Charcoal grey shirt and will be available in Medium, Large, XL and XXL while sizes & supplies last for only $17!!!!

Here is a closer look at a in-production shot of the shirt!

Want to know more about the Phoenix Comic Con? Check it out HERE!!!!!

One and One and One is Three

2010-05-20T12:09:00.001-04:00

Indy Comic Book FAIL today brings you a lesson in Mathmatics, where we learn why the five finger discount screws more than your employer! Read it HERE.

Robot 13 #2- Android Edition!

2010-05-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

The most talked-about indy comic of 2009 continues its run with a thrilling second issue, packed with even more action and intrigue! Robot 13’s quest to discover who he is continues: seeing only fragments of his past, the robot warrior desperately tries to remember where he came from and why he feels compelled to battle mythological creatures of destruction. With R13 aboard, you can be sure there’s rough sailing ahead… and this time, it’s in the form of a Phoenix! But this ravaging battle provides just a taste of what’s ahead for our intrepid hero, as a diabolical figure watches from the shadows… and isn’t happy that monsters keep dying!

Writer Tom Hall and artist Daniel Bradford continue the saga of their creation that has captured the imagination of comic fans the world over.

Robot 13: Colossus! #2 is available in the Android Market. Scan the QR code below with your Android to receive its url.

Press Your Luck!!!

2010-05-13T22:56:00.003-04:00

Think "Making IT" in Comics is kinda like hitting the Lottery? Find out how RIGHT you are in this week's Indy Comic Book FAIL! Read it HERE and find out why you have to be in it to win it!

Fast Times At Riverdale High

2010-05-06T22:54:00.003-04:00

Go take a gander at today's Indy Comic Book FAIL lesson to learn why YOU should avoid doing "All Ages" books like the plague! Read all about it HERE!

Would You Buy This Shirt?

2010-05-03T23:44:00.003-04:00

Seriously- would you buy this shirt? What size would you order?

Let us know at blackmail@blackliststudios.com !

Keep in mind, your email is NOT an order. We are just looking for feedback, because we are thinking about making this KING! shirt a limited edition thing & want to know what people feel about it before we run them off...

Comic Shop Shout Out: Forbidden Planet!

2010-05-01T21:17:00.002-04:00

Today was Free Comic Book Day, and I was lucky enough to be invited to do a signing at Forbidden Planet in NYC! From very early on in the history of Blacklist Studios, Forbidden Planet has been amazingly supportive, and Robot 13 has always sold like crazy there in large part to the amazing staff they have. Not only are they uniformly great people, but they are all passionate about good comics and they evangelize for the books they read like nobodies business. The store itself is really amazing- it's a place where if they don't have it, you probably don't need it... but they can also turn you on to dozens of things you never knew you needed until you saw it there! Follow them on Twitter @ http://twitter.com/FPNYC or just stop by and say hello!

Free Comic Book Day @ Forbidden Planet!

2010-04-30T00:12:00.001-04:00

Saturday, May 1st is Free Comic Book Day, and I will be helping celebrate at Forbidden Planet in NYC! Come see me from 11:30 AM to 1 PM- I will have copies of Robot 13 for sale and a whole batch of super secret R13 buttons to give away and of course the shop itself will have a monster selection of FCBD books and all their regular goodies as well....

Stop by and say Helloooooooooooooo!!!!

For more information, check their website HERE!

ADDRESS
Forbidden Planet
840 Broadway
New York, NY 10003
United States
212.473.1576

SUBWAY
4 5 6 L N R Q W
to 14th St. Union Square

HOURS
Sunday 10am - 10pm
Monday 10am - 10pm
Tuesday 10am - 10pm
Wednesday 9am - 12am
Thursday 10am - 12am
Friday 10am - 12am
Saturday 10am - 12am

The Medium Isn't The Message

2010-04-29T22:03:00.003-04:00

Join me for another installment of Indy Comic Book FAIL, where we learn the answer to the riddle: "What is the difference between a Comic and an 8 Track Tape?"

Read all about it HERE!

Robot Comics: Take 3!

2010-04-28T21:01:00.003-04:00

For those of you that have been digging the stand-alone versions of Robot 13 for the iPod that Robot Comics has been cooking up, issue 3 is available NOW on iTunes!

Check out the Robot Comics announcement HERE for previews & all the info!

[EDITED FOR CONTENT]

2010-04-22T19:37:00.004-04:00

This week, Indy Comic Book FAIL takes on Editors... and tells you why having one can be a fantastic idea! Read all about it HERE!

Robot 13: A Brand New Way to Read Comics on Android

2010-04-20T04:20:00.000-04:00

Introducing a new way to read comics on Android.
Robot 13 #1 by Thomas Hall and Daniel Bradford is now available on the Android Market, and marks the very first Android comic to use frame-by-frame animation. Robot Comics is proud to bring this new comic reading experience to Android, designed to work on all Android devices: from Motorola Droid and Google Nexus One to HTC Dream and HTC Tattoo, including tablets like Archos 5 IT.

Robot 13 was a natural choice to debut this new kind of Android comic: with its dynamic page layouts, atmospheric story, brisk-pace, and action-packed sequences. Readers will experience a wide range of animation and vibration effects when reading Robot 13, and enjoy the most immersive mobile comics reading experience ever offered on Android.

Robot 13#1 debuted on the market to a unanimous 5-star rating and raves from readers. Issue #1 is free, issue #2 will be released for Android on May 12th and cost $0.99 US.

Robot Comics Releases The Kraken!

2010-04-19T18:43:00.005-04:00

Android Users~ Your time has come!

Issue 1 of Robot 13 is available NOW for all Android devices!

Robot 13 NOW AVAILABLE for Android Phones!

2010-04-16T09:05:00.005-04:00

Android Phone users REJOICE! Robot 13 is NOW Available for the Android! We will have a more detailed press release later, but in the meantime, check out Issue 1 for FREE and Issues 2 &3 will release shortly for just .99 US! Just scan the QR below to recieve the URL for your free comic!

Comic Shop Shout Out- Jim Hanley's Universe!

2010-04-16T06:03:00.000-04:00

I was in NYC today & stopped by the newly renovated Jim Hanley's Universe! Not only does their new layout look amazing & inviting, but they have all 3 issues of Robot 13 to boot! If you are in New York City, stop on by and say hello! Need directions? Check HERE!!!

Springtime For Hitler is > FAIL

2010-04-15T17:35:00.002-04:00

Check out the latest Indy Comic Book FAIL and learn why "Springtime For Hitler" has a better shot at success than your Ultra-Violent Cuss Fest of a comic will! Read it HERE!

The Lord Of The Flies

2010-04-08T11:20:00.003-04:00

It's that time of the week again- Today's installment of Indy Comics FAIL drops more names than a download of Paris Hilton's text message history- check it out HERE.

And The Winner Is...?

2010-04-06T08:52:00.003-04:00

I woke up today and took a peek at the list of Rondo winners for this year. While there were a few interesting choices, most category winners were one of 2 or 3 that I think most would have picked as front runners going in. In the Best Horror Comic category, however, the winner was Batman: Gotham After Midnight.

Wow.

Now to be fair, I never really expected a small book like Robot 13 to win. We appreciate everyone who voted for us and are happy for all the winners in every category. And we really DO mean it when we say that just being nominated and considered at all was a huge honor. I mean- how many comics were published last year with horror themes and DIDN'T get nominated?

On the other hand- BATMAN beat out Hellboy, The Goon, The Astounding Wolf Man, Locke and Key, The Complete Dracula, Victorian Undead for Best HORROR comic?

It seems like a Jethro Tull moment to me.

That's not me being bitter, either. Look at the list & forget about Robot 13 for a moment.

Not alot to say, right?

But that's what is cool about fan voting and it's also what often makes the results of fan voting cause one to scratch their head. People get to vote and they are left to their own devices to come up with a method of choosing their winner. America Werewolf in London won for best DVD- was that because people looked over all the choices an weighed them, or because many people voted and that was the first on the list that caught their eye & that they actually saw? There's no way to know. And either method is acceptable- it's your vote after all.

But I think it's fair to say while I didn't expect to see Robot 13 as the winner, it never once entered my head that Batman would win for Best Horror Comic Book...

Robot 13 Meets Kids Comic Com 2010!

2010-04-04T02:47:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, April 10th, I will be at the Kids Comic Con at the Bronx Community College in New York. For those of you who have kids or ARE still young enough to be kids, it's a fantastic Convention. They have tons of kid friendly guests and a whole program of activities and workshops about making comics for every level of ability. It's really a fun time so check it out!

You can get more info about the Kids Comic Con HERE.

Last Chance To Dance!

2010-04-03T11:59:00.002-04:00

Voting for the Rondo Awards will end TONIGHT! If you haven't voted for Robot 13 for Best Horror Comic Book, please do! And while you are at it~ Check out the rest of the catagories, because if you love Horror at ALL, you will find alot to debate.

And yes, you CAN skip any catagories that you just don't know well enough to cast a vote for...

Vote NOW!

Burning Up For Your Love

2010-03-31T22:33:00.005-04:00

Today's Indy Comics FAIL is a lesson in following your passion and Creating what you Love in comics. Check out the map to crashing and burning HERE.

To Infinity And Beyond

2010-03-31T11:57:00.002-04:00

Via Twitter today, I found a review of the Robot Comics iPhone version of Robot 13 #1.

In it, the reviewer said : "Apps are great and they have one for just about anything, but it's the oddball free stuff that I really enjoy. Take Robot 13 as an example. I likely would have never discovered this comic without my i-Phone. Before I get to the comic itself, I have to give kudos to whomever designed the interface for Robot 13 on the i-Phone. It's a rich reading experience that makes each page feel like a story teller is unfolding it for you. I've read a lot of comics on my i-Phone but this interface was one of the best. Surprisingly better than many of the efforts by the major publishers. "

The idea that Mobile comics can be a fun experience has been touted for some time. many people have even gone so far as to suggest that existing comic readers may migrate to digital versions of their favorite comics completely. Here, however, I see actual evidence of a digital version of a comic creating a new comic reader... or at least, a new reader for R13.

Interesting. I wonder how many times things like this will repeat- giving away a digital copy of issue 1 and enlightening that person to what we comic geeks all know: Comics are alot of Fun.

In this case, the digital version impressed someone enough to make them want to talk about it with other people...

Here's hoping that such things become a trend.

Robot 13 For President!

2010-03-29T23:11:00.003-04:00

Well... Not exactly.

It IS the last week to vote for the Rondo Awards, though! Check out the Rondo site HERE and cast your ballot via email for Robot 13 as Best Horror Comic Book for 2009! Sure, we are the longshot underdogs- we ARE Blacklist Studios after all!

Superheroes For Hospice Comic Book Show: April 24th

2010-03-29T09:44:00.001-04:00

LIVINGSTON, NJ--March 25, 2010 - The Livingston Mall will be “invaded” by spandex-clad heroes, monsters, funny-talking animals, space men and an assortment of other colorful comic book characters on Saturday, April 24 as “Superheroes for Hospice” takes over the shopping center.

The effort, which will benefit the Saint Barnabas Hospice and Palliative Care Center of West Orange, features appearances by a host of notable writers and artists who will be signing autographs. The free event is designed to offer comic book fans a chance to enjoy their hobby in a casual setting. There will be comic books of all genres and from several decades available for sale.

Special guests include Jim Salicrup, former Spider-Man editor and current editor-in-chief of PaperKutz Comics; Archie artists Fernando Ruiz, Jeff Shultz and Glenn Whitmore; Archie editor-writer and co-creator of Mecha Manga Bible Heroes Paul Castiglia; Thomas Hall, writer and co-creator of Robot 13 and Mecha Manga Bible Heroes; John-Marc Grob, artist-creator of the FriendFish animated series and president of JMG Studio; sketch card and Femforce comic artist Manny Mederos; illustrator Bobby Vala, who has designed several action figures for Mattel and Hasbro Toys; Steve Conte, creator of Action Figure Kingdom; and Mike Arnold, creator of Jokester Magazine who will be doing caricatures at the show.

"Projects like 'Superheroes For Hospice' are like a superhero’s alter ego, not flashy, but still an important part of the story," says Spiro Ballas, SBHPCC’s Senior Volunteer Coordinator. "Fundraising enables us to provide care to those without insurance as well as additional support such as extra home health aide time. It's also just a fun event. People can meet comic book artists and writers and pick up something new for their collections, all for a good cause."

The event takes place from 10 am to 8 pm on Saturday, April 24th at the Livingston Mall, located at 112 Eisenhower Parkway in Livingston, New Jersey.
Established in 1981, the Saint Barnabas Hospice and Palliative Care Center (SBHPCC), located at 95 Old Short Hills Road in West Orange, provides comprehensive care for patients with advanced illness, and their families, throughout ten counties in the State of New Jersey.

The Saint SBHPCC supports inpatient units at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, NJ, as well as Van Dyke Hospice at Community Medical Center in Toms River. It also provides home care and services for individuals in long-term care and assisted living facilities.

Ballas founded Superheroes for Hospice in December 2008. After three successful shows within the SBHPCC building, the Livingston Mall event is the first Superheroes for Hospice convention to be held in a larger venue. To date, nearly 100,000 comic books have been donated to the project. Comic books are still being collected for this and future shows.

For more information about Superheroes for Hospice, the upcoming show, or to make a comic book donation, contact Spiro Ballas at sballas@sbhcs.com or 973-322-4866. Details are also available at www.sbhcshospice.com/comics.

Craft Is The Frienemy!

2010-03-25T18:39:00.002-04:00

Check out my latest Indy Comics FAIL installment "Craft Is The Frienemy!" and chime in on the fray before it turns violent...

Comic Shop Shout Out- Hero Comics!

2010-03-24T22:04:00.002-04:00

I got an email today from Todd of Hero Comics in Arizona who wanted to let me know that Robot 13 #3 is available NOW! As you can see from the pictures above, Robot 13 is in some fantastic company. If you are a comics fan in the Phoenix area, hop on over to their 3415 W.Thunderbird location and get yourself some Skull Headed Robot Goodness!

Around The Horn V 3.4

2010-03-24T20:47:00.002-04:00

Comic Book Bin Says: "This third installment of the "Colossus!" story arc has been the most solid and entertaining issue thus far. Thomas Hall throws in a brilliant homage to Frankenstein as the blind hermit Oliver takes the unconscious (due to a crash-landing atop a Phoenix) robot into his home, believing 13 is a downed fighter pilot. Bradford's artwork is exquisite as usual. Strangely angular and asymmetrical profiles, heavily inked shadows, and tons of terrifying beasts: this is some of the most unique and enthralling horror illustrating I've seen in the past decade. There's never a dull moment within the pages of Robot 13. This is a must-read. " Rating: 9.5/10

SP! Nexus Says: "Pick this book up, and get in on the ground floor of something big and special." 5 STARS (OUT OF 5)

Today's image is a pin-up from Robot 13 #3 by the FANTASTIC Kim Loh! See more of her work here.

Robot 13 Meets Heavy Metal!

2010-03-23T14:47:00.002-04:00

Jeff Slemons, cover artist for Robot 13 & all around awesome artist, is featured in this month's Heavy Metal! The 2 cover images that Jeff did for Robot 13 are included in the spread, along with amazing shots like this.

Back To Square One

2010-03-20T09:18:00.006-04:00

Today, I have been working on the script for a Robot 13 one shot project that should see the light of day later this year. While I don't want to give away too much, I will say that in working out the story I have been forced to go back to my earliest notes on Robot 13 and pull out some very specific details. One of the memories of Robot 13 will become explained in this story, but I am sure it will raise even more questions in doing so...

Today's image is a colored version of the very first R13 sketch that Daniel did. We used it as the cover for a promo sketchbook we sold at the last New York Comic Con, which featured early R13 designs & B&W pages from what eventually became issue 1.

If you have one, it's a rare thing indeed...

Harlan Ellison & Robot 13

2010-03-19T15:48:00.003-04:00

Sometimes, I like to give you a blurb out of a review that captures the feel of what a person said. In this case, I don't want to misquote or misinform....

Harlan Ellison, from his website:

"R 13

and at first you'll think the art is more than a bit hommage to Mike Mignola--and it is, because the artist on R13 is a gent named Daniel Bradford, himself a great MignolaHead--and that it is deceptively simple. Yeah, right. The way Astaire could tickle a foot...a little. You'll find yourself going back after inadvertently skim-reading (a very accesible storyline) and realizing you'd missed a dozen tasties per page.

No sense my revealing any part of the story but I think you will come to love me for recommending author Thomas Hall's literary conceit in R13. I was blindsided, enriched, captivated. The writing, in three issues, has only made one (1) scratch-the-noggin "gaffe," that may only be me not being smart enough to understand why Hall did it. Not a major point, a small thing.

There are three issues so far, published by Blacklist Comics, at the usual modern-day price, like a sock in the stomach. (I actually bought most of my early comics in the '30s and '40s for 5 or 10 cents, NICKEL COMICS with Bulletman...and when they were WORLD'S FAIR COMICS, 15 cents. And still have most of them.)

But a good read is nonetheless a good read.

If you would talk this up here'n'there, get the 3 issues for yourself somehow, and enjoy them, it would likely save the ass of Hall, Bradford and Blacklist. As with so many of you naifs, they put it up on the internet, hoping an audience would find its way to them, and the dealers would order&stock the book. Well, naive and innocent, what happened was, of course, inevitable. Anyone who came to R13 dowloaded it, stole it, sent it out to friends and strangers, and so WHO, one asks, will pay the writer? Who will pay the artist? Printers don't work for free. And these guys are getting their artful asses handed to them.

I don't know where to send you online to find R13, but I know you will not let a good deed go undone. They are swell books!

Yr. Pal, Harlan"

Enhancing The Legend

2010-03-19T00:51:00.002-04:00

By now, you may have read our review in Newsarama where they say :

"Still impressive, this book is, and easily one of the top three books on the shelves these days. I'll even go so far as to say that, yes, this is a better book right now than even BPRD. And that's saying something because I love that series. Daniel Bradford continues to do amazing visual storytelling, and the mystery behind the hero that Thomas Hall is brewing is simply addicting. This isn't a book you read once then put down. You read the latest issue, then go back to the beginning of the series and read them all again. All comics should be this good. "

While we love seeing reviews like that, what makes us even happier is feedback like we got from the blog over at The 4th Wall :

"Robot 13 from Blacklist Studios was one of the most successful indie comics we carry at The 4th Wall, with issues #1 & #2 selling out in a mere week!"

We love knowing that Robot 13 means alot to comic fans, and that they are excited to pick it up and that in most places it's running out of the stores...

There are many things in the works for Robot 13, but we keep in mind through all of it how YOU have embraced the book. Everything we do is based on what we hope will give you great experiences with our robotic Hero. Hopefully, we keep hitting that mark.

Need a copy of Robot 13 #3? Check out our list of stores here.

Comic Shop Shout Out- Clifton Comics!

2010-03-18T20:34:00.002-04:00

For those of you in the Cincinnati, Ohio area, I'd like to point out to you one of our favorite comic shops- Clifton Comics! For those of you that have been there, you know Steve loves to bring you the coolest comics out there-and as you can see from this shot of their new comic racks, Robot 13 is in the hoooouse!

Check out their website here for more info...

Know Thyself

2010-03-18T11:19:00.003-04:00

My ongoing column, Indy Comics FAIL, continues today on Backroompodcast.com with a frank discussion about why YOU are not Dave Sim....

For those of you too lazy to check that out, enjoy your Ding Dongs!

4 On The Floor!

2010-03-17T12:20:00.002-04:00

As I mentioned in a previous post, Issue 3 of Robot 13 is in stock.

As of today, however, we are down to our last 4 cases of books! Every issue is moving faster than the one before it, and we couldn't be more pleased! If you are looking for a print copy of Robot 13 issue 3, you can order direct from Blacklist Studios at our online store, Check out our website for the updated list of retailers who carry Robot 13 or ask your local shop to order the book. If your local comics dealer wants to get Robot 13 for your local store, they can either email Tony Shenton at Shenton4sales@aol.com or blackmail@blackliststudios.com and we'll take care of them!

Supplies are moving more quickly than we anticipated, so if you want Issue 3, jump on it today!

Today's image is from HotrodShifterKnobs.com- a sweet website that's payin' me zilch to plug them... if you need a shifter knob, though, check them out!

Zombos Contest Of Horrors!

2010-03-15T12:40:00.002-04:00

One of the coolest Horror related Blogs out there is Zombos Closet Of Horrors! Not only is it up for a Rondo Award just like Robot 13 is (Vote NOW!), but they are running a contest, giving away a complete set of the Robot 13 mini-series along with a set of our new 1" buttons that we produced especially for the release of Issue 3! To find out what you need to do to WIN all 3 issues of Robot 13: Colossus!, just click here! The contest ends March 31st, so enter TODAY!

Going With The Flow

2010-03-11T17:40:00.002-05:00

What a sight! Robot 13 #3 has arrived & is already on it's way to stores all over the country! We have close to 200 pounds of comics to ship out, but we are burning the midnite oil to get everyone their copies as soon as humanly possible...

Robot 13 Issue 3 on Panelfly

2010-03-09T12:15:00.004-05:00

You may have checked out Comic Book Resources today and read the review of Robot 13 Issue 3 where they said, "this issue has the most story of all three, and it's the most satisfying issue to date. If issue #1 was about rip roarin' sea monster action, and issue #2 was about rip roarin' phoenix fights with a bit of unexpected backstory, then issue #3 is about rip roarin' Cyclops fisticuffs with even more explicit information about the creature called Robot 13."

If you did, you may be too excited to wait until your store has their print copies in late this week... If you have an iPhone, however, you can read the issue NOW.

The comic reader from Panelfly.com has all 3 issues of the current Robot 13 mini-series available- it looks great & works on any iPhone or iPod Touch! Just open up your Panelfly App & you can forget that pesky thing called "Patience!"

Download and enjoy some Robot Vs. Cyclops battling today!

Around The Horn V 3.3

2010-03-06T10:40:00.003-05:00

Comic Book Jesus Says: "Every issue has been filled with pages designed with such gusto that they demand to be gazed at. With #3 Bradford pulls out all the stops and fills these 32 pages with many moments like that. He has an uncanny knack of just knowing what looks unashamedly cool on paper, and it’s all done with so few lines and such subtle colouring, that it makes it even more impressive. The hard-edged approach to every shape, use of silhouettes and great tension building arrangement of panels all work splendidly to make this an engaging, and easy to follow tale. I could easily see Hall and Bradford working on a Clash of the Titans comic with the same vigour they show here."

Broken Frontier Says: "I’m happy to say that I cannot get enough of this book, and I recommend that everyone shell out the few dollars it takes to join along with Robot 13 on his journey of adventure and discovery. "

Why Bother?

2010-03-04T16:04:00.002-05:00

Indy Comics FAIL is my new weekly column on Backroompodcast.com. Check out today's lesson in Failure titled "Why Bother?"

Or be lazy and don't.

FYI: Today's image is an etching of what medeval people thought would happen to the Slothful in Hell...

Making Hard Choices Part 1.

2010-03-04T12:48:00.004-05:00

You probably know by now that Robot 13 has been nominated for a Rondo Hatton Award for Best Horror Comic Book. While voting for Robot 13 is easy (and highly recommended), picking the best in some categories is MUCH more difficult.

Take for example The Best Horror Blog- in that category, you have to choose from some of the following:

Frankensteinia: A blog dedicated to Frankenstein in every form & media imaginable! A real must read for any monster fan- it's a truly fun read and I always learn something from it.

The Drunken Severed Head: Come for the title, stay for the wacky sense of humor! Random-ish blogs almost never grab me, but this has personality galore.

The Good, The Bad and The Godzilla: If you know me at all, you'll know enough to say that this blog is a given destination for me. Japanese Sci-Fi in all it's forms with a healthy dose of Giant Monsters!!!

Vampiros and Monstruos: Mexican Horror/Sci-Fi/Weirdness! Run over there now and check this out- amazing stuff!

Zombos' Closet of Horror: A total must read and one of my daily rituals over coffee, Zombo's Closet is literate, informative, opinionated and fun all at once.

Scared Silly: An open love letter to classic Horror Comedies, Scared Silly is passionate about it's subject without being dry or academic. An excellent read highlighting many films you may have never heard about but will seek out after reading about them here!

Now- I won't tell you who I personally voted for, but I will say that this is just a list of my personal high points of the category...

So when you vote for Robot 13 for Best Horror Comic, take your time and check out some of the other categories as well. Voting for the Rondo Hatton Awards is open until April 3rd, so go here for more details!

Remember The Name

2010-03-01T21:23:00.002-05:00

Jesus Marquez.

Remember that name.

J*E*S*U*S* M*A*R*Q*U*E*Z*

I mean- Dude draws some amazing @#$%!

Daniel and I got a pinup from Jesus for the upcoming KING!, and it was just amazing...

When you see it, you'll want to know who he is. Guaranteed.

Check out the art of Jesus Marques here.

Indy Comics FAIL!

2010-02-25T04:38:00.002-05:00

I was aksed by the great people at BackroomPodcast.com to do a weekly column which starts today. It's called Indy Comics FAIL and is all about how to Fail at Independent Comics...

Why talk about failure, you ask?

Check out the opening column and see.

13 Reasons To Vote For Robot 13

2010-02-24T12:44:00.003-05:00

As you may know by now, Robot 13 has been nominated for the 2009 Rondo Hatton Award for Best Horror Comic Book. I hope you vote in every category- it promotes Horror fiction in all it's forms from Movies to TV to DVD releases to Comics...

When you get to Category #21 on your ballot, before you vote please check out the latest review of the Robot 13 series from ComicAttack.net titled "13 reasons to read Robot 13." It's a sweet look at the entire series, and it gives you everything you may need to know about Robot 13!

Issue #3 can also be pre-ordered from our website here!

Schedule Change for Feb. 27th Comic Show!

2010-02-24T07:59:00.008-05:00

There has been a change in the Feb. 27th show in NYC, moving it from The Armory on Lexington to a different location and I will not be able to attend.

If you are in NYC this weekend and still want to pick up copies of Robot 13, head on over to Midtown Comics, Jim Hanley's Universe or Forbidden Planet~ all of whom are in great locations & all currently have stock of issues 1 & 2!!!

Around The Horn V 3.2

2010-02-23T10:04:00.000-05:00

OneMetal.com Says: " Creators Hall and Bradford embark their robot hero on a soul-searching quest, expanding their budding, mythological world and boosting the book's credibility in the process. Robot13 is invigorating—it defies its leisurely pace and simply enthralls."

Diamond Scoop Says: "There's a good reason that MTV’s Rick Marshall called R-13 the “Best Under-the-Radar Comic Series," and that's because it is. You may have to ask your retailer to special order it, but do so."

Robot 13 Nominated for The Rondo Awards!

2010-02-22T09:10:00.006-05:00

The 8th annual Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards Ballot has been released, and Robot 13 has been nominated for Best Horror Comic Book!

The Rondo awards are a yearly program to allow fans of Horror to vote for their favorites in Horror film, books, comics, music and general fandom and can be voted on by YOU the fan! If you go to Rondoaward.com, you can get the ballot information as well as info about the Rondos and lists of past winners. You can vote for as many or as few of the categories as you like- so if there are those that you just don't know anything about, feel free to pass on those and vote for the categories you feel strongly about. All votes must be emailed to taraco@aol.com with your name (so they can adhere to the One Person=One Vote rule) by Midnight of April 3, 2010.

While we would LOVE for you to Vote for Robot 13 for Best Horror Comic Book, I want to also encourage you to check out the site and vote for as many of the categories as you feel knowledgeable about. It's an awesome, grass roots type of thing and a HUGE honor to be nominated for everyone involved.

Rock The Vote Today!

Around The Horn V 3.1

2010-02-14T08:52:00.002-05:00

GhettoManga Says: "I would have been pretty happy with the book i expected to read: A knock-off of Mignola's iconic horror/adventure joint Hellboy spliced with recent "indy comic that could" success story Atomic Robo. What I actually got was an easily digested, well-written, and beautifully illustrated monster parade that is sad, funny, and mysterious all at once. "

Surfing The Bleed Says: "Issue Three of R13 is a big step forward for both the writer and the artist. While the first two issues have certainly been good, issue three sets the bar much higher. When looking back on what will hopefully be two very successful careers, Hall and Bradford may well mark this point as the moment when they went from being struggling self-publishers to bonafide creators."

Plus: Check out our latest interviews with ComicAttack and Charm City Geek!

Freedom Of Choice

2010-02-12T18:38:00.005-05:00

In the recent review of Robot 13: Colossus! Issue 3 on Geek Native, we learn the following:

"My first exposure to Robot 13 was due to the clever way it’s being published. It simply looks great on the iPhone and the Android. I’m fascinated by the changes that are coming to the publishing world and especially the digital aspect of it. I think there is a future in magazines (especially on a subscription) and I think devices like the iPad will be perfect for that. If I ever get an iPad then I can happily imagine myself flicking through some quality material such as Robot 13."

In the back and forth debate about Digital Comics Vs. Print Comics, most imagine an end game where Digital "wins" and the market for Print becomes non-existent and those of us who like to hold paper comics in our hands will be deemed "Obsolete" by The State and will have to give up our Comic BOOKS or choose the method of our liquidation...

For me, it's interesting to consider that it's possible for one to create a desire to read the other- iPhone Comics lovers may read a comic and decide they want the very different experience of reading a more conventional comic, and Print fans may decide they want to bring their favorite comics along with them digitally. We could be heading for an AND situation here.

After all, look at Vinyl Records- while some other music formats have come and gone, Vinyl had kept a niche market which fluctuates based on Style of music. Fans of some types of music want it on Vinyl, while others care for that format less. That may be the future, just as the Prophets Devo foretold: "Freedom of Choice."

That, however, wasn't the "point" of the review. They also really liked the book.

Read all about it here.

Around The Horn V 3.0

2010-02-11T07:20:00.002-05:00

Kevin C Says: "...in the newest issue of R13, Thomas Hall and Daniel Bradford have balanced smart story telling and appetite whetting plot advancement, with gallons of blood pooling amounts of action."

Spanky Stokes Says: " Robot 13's third issue is just as sweet as the first two..."

Optical Sloth Says: "...this was a blast. I loved that loopy, almost Mike Mignola-ish art, and the writing did a nice job of setting up the series and making the metal man a sympathetic figure."

Giant Monsters Attack Says: "I wish that Hollywood would make a movie version of this thing already. "

Today's Image was grabbed from Spanky Stokes using images from Robot 13: Colossus! Issue 3!

Robot 13: The Search For Copies

2010-02-10T10:51:00.002-05:00

By now you have probably seen the press release for Robot 13: Colossus Issue 3. Like many people, You may ask yourself, "Self, How will I get a copy of Robot 13 #3 when it comes out on March 10th?"

Here are your options:

1) If your local comic shop carries Robot 13 already, by all means head on down and pick up a copy! Not sure if there is a shop near you that has the book? Check our retailer list here, which we update as new stores are added.

2) Don't see your stores name on that list, but you want your store to carry Robot 13? Have your store owner contact either Tony Shenton at Shenton4sales@aol.com or me at tom@blackliststudios.com and we will get them all the rates and information.

3)Want to buy from a comic shop that will ship books to you? We deal with Things From Another World, MyComicShop.com and Midtown Comics, all of whom have large Internet comics businesses. In addition, we also are carried by Heavy Ink and Discount Comic Book Service as well. And check the websites of the stores on our list- Many of them also have mail order.

4) Would you like to buy from us directly? Pre-orders via Paypal can be made at our store here.

5) Would you rather have your books digitally? Robot 13: Colossus Issue 3 will be released via Panelfly on the iPhone and iPod Touch and Robot Comics on the iPhone, iPod Touch and Android compatible phones as well. If you go to their websites you can get more information or to get iPhone and iPod touch comics, go to iTunes where you will find our comics in the App Store.

Robot 13 Issue 3 Available For Pre-Order NOW!

2010-02-09T08:20:00.003-05:00

That's Right- Robot 13: Colossus! Issue 3 is NOW Available for Pre-Order!

One of the hottest and most talked about Indy comic mini-series' comes to a thrilling conclusion in Issue 3! Robot 13 is putting the pieces of his past together- Will the murderous Cyclops find him before he finds the truth? Find out in this 32 page full-color issue brought to you by Writer Thomas Hall and Artist Daniel Bradford!

Pre-orders are open for the March 10th release of Robot 13 issue 3.

You can order direct from Blacklist Studios via Paypal at http://www.blackliststudios.com/store.html, have your local shop contact Tony Shenton at shenton4sales@aol.com or e-mail Blacklist at blackmail@blackliststudios.com to place a direct order!

Robert Hood Chimes In On Robot 13

2010-02-07T13:29:00.002-05:00

Robert Hood saw the recent nonsense concerning cover for Robot 13 #3, and talked to me about it all. After our conversation, he asked to check out the issue himself- you can see his comments about it here.

You can see Robert's reviews of issue 1 here and Issue 2 here, as well as a 2 part interview with Daniel and I here and here...

What'D Ya Do?

2010-02-03T08:37:00.006-05:00

As I work on comics, I tend to do alot of research; some things make it into the final product, and some lead to interesting dead ends. In every case, I end up gathering alot of odds and ends that I think may shed some light on things. In working on Robot 13" Colossus! Issue 3, I came across the following (In no special order):

The "Modern" storyline in Robot 13 takes place in 1939 Spain during the Spanish Civil War. In researching the subject I read Homage to Catalonia by George Orwell, as well as books by Hellen Graham, Hugh Thomas, and Alun Kenwood and many others.

The setting of the bulk of Issue 3 was inspired by pictures such as this.

While Polyphemus wasn't the inspiration for our Cyclops, The Theogony of Hesiod was.

On Youtube I found this, this and this- none of which were of much help.

This, however, was just awesome.

In addition, you may find the following useful when your read Robot 13: Colossus Issue 3:

If you watch this movie, you will find something of an "easter egg" in issue 3.

It helps when you read issue 3 if you know that carnicería has 2 meanings.

And yes, Buenaventura Durruti does make an appearance in issue 3...

The Science Of Cyclopia

2010-02-02T15:01:00.005-05:00

Due to the complete and utter nonsense surrounding the cover for Robot 13: Colossus! Issue 3, I wanted to make a few points crystal clear that I alluded to here.

First of all Cyclopia is a real Human condition, and one that almost always has a fatal result in extreme cases. The reason for this is that Humans born with acute Cyclopia not only have a single eye, but they also have a myriad of other birth defects and issues and are thousands of times more susceptible to Cancer and other life threatening illness. Most never live long enough to exhibit those signs of illness, however, because malformations in the lungs, heart, brain and liver usually keep a live-born person with Cyclopia from making it that far.

Now- the point of my mentioning this is only to be clear as to why our Cyclops was designed as he was. The Protrusions on his head and the nodes that cover his body are, in fact, tumors.

He does NOT have "sawed off horns" or any such nonsense on his head.

The design of the character was such that he reflected the one in a billion chance that would occur IF a giant Cyclops were to actually exist. IF such a person were to actually live into adulthood, a "best case" scenario would be that such a person would b full of such growths- be they Cancerous or not.

Again- our cover has nothing in common with Hellboy because Hellboy is essentially the grown-up version of Harvey's "Hot Stuff," while our Cyclops was borne out of hours and hours of research into medical realities.

And again, to be painfully clear- the point of us doing this research and pointing such things out was not to ridicule the birth defect. Being literate individuals, we actually read Books from time to time. Knowledge is power, but only if you use it. Otherwise it's like walking around a gunfight with a pocket full of bullets. Yes, you will keep them in "mint condition," but you will also get blown full of holes...

Hail To The KING!, Baby!

2010-02-02T13:52:00.003-05:00

Here's what's next. Haters, Keep on Hating... KING! is going to Rock!

The Very Nearly Almost Colossus!

2010-02-01T21:44:00.012-05:00

Special thanks to Matt for making Scott Allie's dream come true! Above you see the cover that should have been for issue 3 of Robot 13...

Because it's obvious that this:

Wasn't influenced at ALL by this (Which came out a year before Hellboy):
And that neither image recalled King Kong from 60 years before that:

But instead, the wholly original Mignola cover was actually ripped off by us here:
Silly, right? But that is Scott's thought on the subject- as brought to you by Superpunch.

Of course, if you view the cover in it's original color scheme here,

It looks even less like Hellboy than ever... Mostly because the only thing the original cover has in common with the Hellboy cover in question is the color red. For the record, the reason we even went with red was, A) it made sense in terms of the story and B) if we didn't change the color, the Cyclops would disappear into all the gray and white of the snowy mountains.

What we DIDN'T realize, however, is how much our cover looked like THIS:

Which we never saw until over a month after the book was finished, printed and on a boat from China.

Honest.

R13 Issue 3: The Cover...

2010-02-01T11:11:00.002-05:00

Josh Alves On Comic Book Resources!

2010-01-26T17:18:00.003-05:00

Josh Alves, a good friend and all around tallented guy spoke recently to Comic Book Resources! You can see his interview here, or you can check out Araknid Kid on Zuda (continued on Sugary Serials) his Tastes Like Chicken comic or his latest comic Heropotomus!

Today's image is the cover of the Outer Space Bible Comic that Josh is also working on, Co-Written by your's truely & hopefully to see the light sometime in the near future...