Ride the tiger through the independent, Afropunk, sci-fi expanse of “Ancient Futures.” With the Kickstarter in the final days of it’s journey, the Revenge crew sat down with the creative team behind this new comic series, writer Steven White and artist Aaron McConnell. In this, tiger-milk thick, 40 page first issue, White plugs the reader into the occupied timeline of Valentino Cruz and the symphony of events that will dictate his universal trajectory. McConnell, coming off his massively successful graphic novel, “The Comic Book Story of Beer,”  brings the surreal thunder with his cosmic-tripping multi-medium storytelling. Time is short so make your pledge now if  you wanna sink your tiger claws into the sweet book meat of “ANCIENT FUTURES.” Does your future seem bright? Then put on those shades and share that blue tiger milk!  Be oh so fine as you go through life and show the stripes of our sweet designs.  Powered by…. 

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#18: Aaron McConnell & Steven White

A strange and cryptic creature... whose call of stories and reflections echoing out into the vast wilderness of comics and pop culture... 

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From the cowboy prairies of Calgary, Alberta, writer and Editor-N-Chief of ASAP Imagination steps into the Tiger Den with “villainous” intent! The wonderful Laurie Cunningham joins the revenge crew to tell us about her new graphic novel anthology, “The Complete Points of Villainy” from the international publishing house ASAP Imagination. Under the helm of Laurie (also known as L.A.) and London based owner Haydes, ASAP was born from a grassroots community of online independent creators. Only to quickly grow into a viable imprint with multiple published titles, and many more on the way. That being said “Points of Villainy” has arrived. Adapted from the original novellas, the graphic novel has already achieved its funding goal, and “PoV” is now in the faze of collecting stretch goals and planning for the future. As it moves closer toward manifesting its tales of misery and eventual hope. The anthology is a collection of various individual experiences during a mysterious nation-wide paranormal event that sweeps through the city famously known as “the Big Smoke” (London). Coming in at over 100 pages and featuring a wide collection of creators from all over the world of various stylings. “The Complete Points of Villainy”  is perfectly curtailed for the readers of slice-of-life mystery and the paranormally bizarre.  To every yin there is a yang, with production already underway for the countering follow-up to “Villainy;” “Points of Virtue.” So what will happen when darkness meets the light? We’ll just have to follow the points to find out! The campaign is live now, so check it out over on Kickstarter. You can keep up with Laurie and get everything ASAP over at their site:  https://asapimagination.com   A note from Tadd: The “NOW” is the resurgence of the independent creator through crowd sourcing and self-publishing availability. As the veil gets pulled back ever further and the predatory practices of corporate models get revealed, it is more and more important to support those who actually create the stories and art that we as consumers enjoy. So SUPPORT INDIE PROJECTS and their CREATORS. Help make the indies the mainstream. Even the smallest of gestures can be of the biggest help. Have you experienced the elusive and majestic energy of the Blue Tiger? Had a sighting in the wilderness of the eternal forest? Drank the blue milk of it’s revenge? Then let the people know it exists! And check out “TAIGA”, Tadd’s latest graphic novel with new pages weekly. Exclusively at patreon.com/gnarpig 

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Episode 63: Writer Laurie Cunningham

From the sun struck coast of California comes independent comic writer, Gabe Cheng, as he reunites with the Revenge Crew once again. Building a reputation for the not-so-typical slice of life narratives, Gabe continues to extend his writing catalog. Tackling one of our favorite comic genres here at BTR… the comedic one shot. “Stuck in the Middle” is a theologic satire as it’s just another day in exile for fallen angel, Dante. A being of godly design on the precipice of existential crisis just living out, yet, another day in the mundane purgatory of his Los Angeles apartment complex. But hey at least there’s a pool. Like anyone feeling “stuck” in life, Dante must come to grips with his own reality and face his literal demon and that demon is not too happy about it. The meeting of ancient rivals goes about how you’d expect. Who will prevail, light or darkness, in the inevitable battlefield of their North Hollywood apartment villa commons area?!  With quick wit and a whole lot of charm and style, Gabe brings a fun read for those looking to start off the summer with some light chuckles. “Stuck in the Middle” is funding right now on Kickstarter with only about a week left. Check it before time runs out! A note from Tadd: The “NOW” is the resurgence of the independent creator through crowd sourcing and self-publishing availability. As the veil gets pulled back ever further and the predatory practices of corporate models get revealed, it is more and more important to support those who actually create the stories and art that we as consumers enjoy. So SUPPORT INDIE PROJECTS and their CREATORS. Help make the indies the mainstream. Even the smallest of gestures can be of the biggest help. Have you experienced the elusive and majestic energy of the Blue Tiger? Had a sighting in the wilderness of the eternal forest? Drank the blue milk of it’s revenge? Then let the people know it exists! And check out “TAIGA”, Tadd’s latest graphic novel with new pages weekly. Exclusively at patreon.com/gnarpig 

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bluetigerrevenge.substack.com

Episode 62: Comic Writer Gabe Cheng

The Revenge Crew joins up with the main man over at Critical Entertainment for his ancient quest across the ever changing lands of indie comics! Writer, publisher, and over all nice guy, Chris Reda breaks down his new line of comics and graphic novels that are gracing the shelves of shops across the North America. Based in the cinematic dreamland of L.A., California. Chris, along with with his partner in print Mason Mendoza, founded Critical Entertainment to bring their own unique stories to the printed page.  Bucking the all too usual restrictions of traditional production ( for context, the usual floppy issue rolls in conservatively at a monthly 22 page release that’s formatted in a standard print size), Critical Entertainment lets the story dictate the print needs of the individual story. Bold and dynamic, it offers readers something a bit different to find on the shelves. Their silent sci-fi epic “Space Dragon” might be one of the boldest examples of this refreshing approach. At a 115 pages, this trade measures in at 7.5" x 12" and is glorious. How else should a planet-sized intergalactic swimming dragon be experienced on the page! Continuing with their fresh approach, Reda is writing a series that’s being illustrated by the very voice you’re reading now. That’s right it’s me, Tadd (always remember, never forget)! “The First Americans” is a title that explores a genre that is mostly unique for todays pop-pubs of capes, sci-fi dramas, and life-slices.  As speculative fiction, “First Americans” is the journey of a hunter at the tail end of the ice age some 14 thousand years ago. Who parts with his peoples and the fierce woman of his heart, to track a mammoth and its small herd. Taking him from the eastern Steppe of Siberia, through the gateway of Beringia, and into the new lands of the Americas. It’s an exploration of the human spirit, always pushing toward the beyond of the horizon. The emboldened hunter encounters megafauna, natural elements, and looks into the depths of his own soul as he trudges deeper through vast unknown wilderness.  Ambitious in story and execution. As the artist, I changed up my approach and tackle a different style to best fit our storytelling, referencing a master of historical fiction and ink composition, Serio Toppi. While Reda takes an equally unique approach. Letting the story dictate the page count, freeing the flow of physical print limitations. Each chapter comes in thicker than the usual newsstand floppy, and as a quarterly release to boast, throughout the next two years.  First Americans, has been a long time coming and now it finally breaks through the ice and into local comic shops next week, March 27th.  Or if you need to start the journey now visit Critical Entertainment site to get “First Americans” and their numerous other titles! A note from Tadd: The “NOW” is the resurgence of the independent creator through crowd sourcing and self-publishing availability. As the veil gets pulled back ever further and the predatory practices of corporate models get revealed, it is more and more important to support those who actually create the stories and art that we as consumers enjoy. So SUPPORT INDIE PROJECTS and their CREATORS. Help make the indies the mainstream. Even the smallest of gestures can be of the biggest help. Have you experienced the elusive and majestic energy of the Blue Tiger? Had a sighting in the wilderness of the eternal forest? Drank the blue milk of it’s revenge? Then let the people know it exists! And check out “TAIGA”, Tadd’s latest graphic novel with new pages weekly. Exclusively at patreon.com/gnarpig 

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bluetigerrevenge.substack.com

Episode 61: Critical Entertainment's Chris Reda

Ben Bates is back and he’s not holding back!  You may remember Mr. Bates from his signature artist runs on Archie Comic’s “Sonic the Hedgehog” or IDW’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” and let’s not forget “Mega Man.”  He later left the ever-shifting landscape of the comic industry for the world of animation. Taking up residency in some of LA’s most notable studios, storyboarding for todays equivalent of Saturday morning cartoons. Then, just like that, he disappeared into the sun drench tapestry of the Southwest. Where did he go? What was he planning? Now he’s back, jack! Making his return to children’s entertainment, and he’s got a lot to say about it!  Any creator who’s worked with, beloved corporate-owned, characters knows there’s a give and take. You can do some great stuff, but there are limitations due to a cascade of correlating factors. With Ben’s return, he’s doing it his own way. Down to the very last drawing.  Jumping into the fire with a new creator owned kids graphic novel, “POWERSTARS,” and he’s cooking. With an assembly of all new original created characters, it vibes with the kind of fun that’s forever associated with classic video gaming entertainment. On the surface, it’s a bright, high energy, book that’s with kinetic uses of design and visual engagement. Underneath the surface it’s a story that digs into the depths of what it means to be a hero. Examining the real-life conundrum of  champions who are the greatest catalysts for goodness in their world, while also carrying destructive flaws. Self published under his own founded label, “Powerstars” comes in at whopping 228 pages. This full color, retro consul inspired graphic novel is for ages 8 and up, and is the first volume in a series of potentially many. Volume 1 is available for purchase; in both digital and, for you old school paper mongers like myself, print formats.  You can keep up with Ben and  get your hands on volume 1 of “Powerstars” at his website and follow for future updates through his linked social media platforms. A note from Tadd: The “NOW” is the resurgence of the independent creator through crowd sourcing and self-publishing availability. As the veil gets pulled back ever further and the predatory practices of corporate models get revealed, it is more and more important to support those who actually create the stories and art that we as consumers enjoy. So SUPPORT INDIE PROJECTS and their CREATORS. Help make the indies the mainstream. Even the smallest of gestures can be of the biggest help. Have you experienced the elusive and majestic energy of the Blue Tiger? Had a sighting in the wilderness of the eternal forest? Drank the blue milk of it’s revenge? Then let the people know it exists! 

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bluetigerrevenge.substack.com

Episode 60: Comic Creator Ben Bates

Oh my! It’s Ludie Sextons new “O” Anthology from Warden Comics! We sat down with, the always too humble, indie work-horse Ludie Sexton as he Kickstarts yet another project from his imprint, Warden Comics. Always creating new opportunities for budding writers and sequential artists to showcase their storytelling, he’s put together the “O” Anthology as a collection of octopod based stories. Bucking the all to familiar Lovecraftian tropes, this cephalopod themed collection has a story for everyone from horror to comedy to sci-fi, . Boasting an array of creative storytellers from all walks of life. “O” shines a light on a plethora of up and coming student creators and emerging voices from the indies. Even a few seasoned hats of the comic game show up, like longtime comic academic Michael Kraiger and the voice you’re reading now, Tadd Galusha. Not to make this write-up too personal, but it was an absolute pleasure taking part in this project. Ludie brought me in to the fold with a very unique proposition, to illustrate a poem that specifically played to the fiddle of my heart. With story written by him, poetry  provided by Grace Crocker, and Sophie Lee assisting me on colors; we put together a pretty wonderful little short, titled “Rage.”  “Rage” angrily chews at the fat of time from the perspective of a creature that very well could be the result of panspermia. Some real deal science fiction, folks!  “O” Anthology is Kickstarting right now, and through the month of February. So if you can, spare a few bucks and support the octo-fueled tales from a new wave of indie creators. It’s the catch of the day with something fresh for everyone! A note from Tadd: The “NOW” is the resurgence of the independent creator through crowd sourcing and self-publishing availability. As the veil gets pulled back ever further and the predatory practices of corporate models get revealed, it is more and more important to support those who actually create the stories and art that we as consumers enjoy. So SUPPORT INDIE PROJECTS and their CREATORS. Help make the indies the mainstream. Even the smallest of gestures can be of the biggest help. Have you experienced the elusive and majestic energy of the Blue Tiger? Had a sighting in the wilderness of the eternal forest? Drank the blue milk of it’s revenge? Then let the people know it exists! And check out “TAIGA”, Tadd’s latest graphic novel with new pages weekly.  Exclusively at patreon.com/gnarpig 

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bluetigerrevenge.substack.com

#18: Aaron McConnell & Steven White

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