We’ll get the above out of the way. Guardians of The Galaxy kicked seventy-zillion kinds of ass.

Haven’t seen it?

You sicken me.

Anyway, let’s move on to my little list. Each entry (and I’m going to try to do this everyday for the rest of the year) will highlight a favorite book, movie, album, comic, or item of extreme nerdery that I dug this year. Doesn’t mean it came out this year, just means that I dug it this year.

Let’s have some fun.

Books

The Last Safe Place: A Zombie Novella by Rob Hart

Full disclosure: I read this two years ago when Rob first put it out as an e-book. Still, I want to give the guy some love with his debut novel ‘New Yorked‘ and it’s follow-up, ‘City of Rose’ coming out next year.

Rob’s a tight (ha!) writer, and The Last Safe Place is a perfect introduction to his writing. I’m a fan of Rob’s ability to add kernels of smart, dark humor into his stories and his ability to ramp up tension without getting lost in the reeds. The guy uses each of his words wisely, and I can appreciate that.

Can’t recommend this novella more. Click the title o the pic above for more. Also, preorder ‘New Yorked’ by clicking the title above.

Music

Brill Bruisers – The New Pornographers

I’ll say it – this is The New Pornographers’ best album since Mass Romantic. Stand out tracks: Hi-Rise and Dancehall Domine, especially. Pure pop wonderment. I’ve been a fan of the Pornographers for a long time now, but can honestly say their last few albums were a little low-key for me (still enjoy them). This return to the their dancey roots feels necessary and what’s better, you can hear a maturity to the sound that wasn’t there before.

Check it:

Movies

We discussed Guardians of The Galaxy.

WE DISCUSSED IT AND SOMEHOW YOU HAVEN’T STOPPED READING TO GO WATCH IT.

Anyway.

John WIck

I am an unabashed Keanu Reeves fanboy (aside from his romantic comedy/drama output, that shit don’t exist) and truly believe he’s one of the best B-movie actors ever. He may not have range, but the guy is extremely likeable on and off screen.

John Wick is pure pulp from start to finish that manages better world-building in less time than most action/crime flicks do in their entire running time. Absolutely worth your dollars. No joke. Go buy it.

Comics

Afterlife with Archie

lolwut?

When I saw the announcements and covers I said the same damn thing.

Now, I’m eating crow. No lie – this is the best damn comic series of 2014.

Why? Walking Dead does zombie drama already, right? I mean, this is ARCHIE we’re talking about. It’s supposed to be wholesome and junk.

Doesn’t matter. It works. Best part? They don’t betray he spirit of the characters at all. The writing is top notch and Francavilla’s art makes every panel worthy of a poster.

And holy hell, the last page of issue 6.

Random Nerdery

Aliens Xenomorph Queen – NECA Toys

She’s sitting under my tree and even in box, she’s GORGEOUS. Also, MASSIVE. 15 inches tall and nearly 3 feet long with her tail extended!

Once upon a time, I wanted the McFarlane Movie Maniacs version of this gal. Always had major regret that I couldn’t buy her. Now, I’ve got one that’s leagues better.

NECA has been on a roll with me this year – The Spider-Gremlin, Ed-209, and Predator series have been flawless representations of beloved 80’s monster icons.

Next year? The Power Loader and Ripley from Aliens.

You realize I have to buy that, right?

That wraps it up for Part 1.

I’m going to hold myself to doing this as long as I can.

Seriously.

For true.

Stop looking at me like that.

Be Easy,

Angel