You’ve read zombie books, you’ve read books about the walking dead, but you’ve never read a book like this before. This is Garth Ennis on fire for the dirtiest, most un-apologetic “what would happen if” story ever. The violence and brutality of this book come from the depths of the human soul, making it that much more stunning, as in “stunned by a blow to the head.”

We’re so sure of the quality of this book that we’re recommending you go and get the first 8 issues, if you can find them, so you can enjoy this one in a mad rush of vicious insanity.

Issue 9 promises to be 40 pages of pure series-ending glorious comic cattle-prod, and will be in stores this coming Wednesday.

Scalped #35 by Jason Aaron, Daniel Zezelj, Jock

I’ve made no secret about the fact that Scalped is the best comic being printed today.  If I could only read one comic, this would be it. The intertwining narratives of the different crime genre staples, such as undercover feds, gang warfare, betrayals, family secrets, and unlikely alliances are deftly woven against the backdrop of an Indian reservation.  This unique twist of using the loose governance of such a setting, gives Aaron the room to draw a wide tapestry of multi-layered characters and story lines with depth.  The art of R.M. Guera is absolutely perfect for this book, and the overall execution and quality of the visuals cannot be understated.  Jock continues to put his ankle in it on cover duty.  Not since Ennis’ Preacher, have I seen such a perfect blend of character development, noir, humor, violence, mystery, and action.  With Aaron just wrapping up an action packed arc in issue #34, this single story issue is as good a time as any to jump on board.  Then do yourself a favor and pick up the trades and catch up after you buy this.

In a special stand-alone issue, we meet a couple of characters for the first and last time – an aging husband and wife who eke out a living in the harsh and rugged heart of the Badlands. Learn what it means to reside in the poorest community in the entire United States – and what it means to survive.

Choker #1 by Ben McCool and Ben Templesmith

I just started following Ben Templesmith; this hit the stores at just the right time.  Ben McCool also had a hand in the Justice League Unlimited series.  For those that have never checked out a Marvel Unlimited comic, you really should do yourself a favor and check out the Unlimited version of your favorite Marvel book.

In Choker, the two Ben’s join up to create a dark police drama comic.  Choker will follow the likes of Johnny Jackson on his road to bust a notorious drug dealer.  Knowing that this is coming from Image Comics, you can bet there will be adult themes, demonic forces at work, and a story that keeps you craving more by the end of each craven, twisted and hilarious issue.

This has all the beginnings to be a great comic series.  Throw this onto your stack of books this week at checkout and enjoy a new series.  You never know, this might just make your monthly pull list of short stories.  I know it is making mine!

Each week, we’ll spotlight one book that we think you should check out, for reasons we’ll hopefully be able to explain to you. Of course, sometimes it’s just because the book is sweet-ass awesome-sauce.

Demo #1 By Brian Wood and Becky Cloonan.
Why? Because this is a return to indie comics for the duo. Because indie comics are cool. And because Vertigo believed enough in these creators enough to publish a book that has no ads other than ones for the creators’ other books, and allowed it to go all black and white. It’s a book with no continuity, and no superheroes. It’s got supernatural doings and goings on, too. Yes!

I read the preview over at DC Comics/Vertigo, and loved the style, the art, and was left panting for more. I knew I was going to buy it right then. I even had to ASK the comic book shop guy if they had gotten in copies, since they weren’t out on shelves, yet. That’s something I never do. But I do it for you!

Head to your local shop and grab this up right quick. I’ve a feeling, just looking through the book, that it’s gonna be a series to watch.