Kind of an unusual cover as far as the general layout is concerned here, but we will have to wait and see if Agent X9 4 2023 is a one-off or not. Maybe they just figured that the Noir Burlesque cover deserved your undivided attention? Perhaps readers have taken a real liking to this modern day classic? I wonder how old timers will react to this update here in Sweden… We will know in late April if the change is a done deal.
(My shot of said issue, cover art by Enrico Marini)
Added the self titled 2022 debut album from SheWolf on CD to the old collection. This is a really strong Symphonic Rock type release and singer Angel Wolf-Black writes and performs excellent lyrics with passion and conviction. They have a lore going too which I like. The opening track “The One You Feed” sticks in your head on first listen which is a good sign. 10 songs that keeps the interest going is not bad, for a debut this is very strong. I really should have bought this a year ago.
John Astin is 93 years old as of today, and I thought that it would be a good thing to mention this on the blog. The Addams Family (1964) was one of my early favourite shows on television (it was aired a few years later in these parts) and his portrayal as the head of the family, Gomez, is still beyond compare. John Astin is the last survivor now and although that is kind of sad (thinking that there were kid actors in the show that are both gone), on a positive note we can still enjoy what they created back in the day and it has aged well. Later film adaptations have been fine, but the original show was just outstanding. Morticia Addams was quite the character too and when Gomez and Morticia was in the same room, sparks was in the air. Carolyn Jones did a wonderful job as Morticia in the show (she passed away in 1983) and I seem to recall that I had a bit of a crush on her back in the day. I was 10, but clearly pretty smart! The framed picture of Gomez (Astin) that you see here hangs over the entrance to my TV room. It is very small, what you see is pretty much the right scale.
Got the EMP store Gold Vinyl of “The Other One” today. Babymetal has really gone to town with special versions of the new album this time around. This one had no actual cover, just plastic with a sticker. Still, I know it will be gone before you know it…
Got a lot of dedicated space for books of all kinds in the old man cave, but the time has come to build some more. This is going to be a project for 2023 for sure. The Commando collection alone consists of well over 2,000 copies. Luckily I still have room to expand and I will certainly not stop to collect. I always wanted a library and I have to say that it is rather nice to have one. Whenever I feel like reading a book (or a comic), I have got plenty to choose from. I like that.
(My shot of Commando 5627, cover art by Neil Roberts)
If your thing is classic Heavy Metal then Lovebites is for you. If anything, they prove with “Judgement Day” that they are at the top of their game. This is a really good album. Excellent hard driving songs, top notch skills all the way. And in spite of them coming out of Japan, all lyrics are in English. They are a Top 10 band now for sure. Well earned too.
(My shot of said CD, with magazine ad from JPU Records)
Got the CD and Double LP versions of the new Lana Del Rey album today and I really like that she has put out the Limited Edition Green Vinyl with this alternative artwork. It surprised me that there are no lyrics printed on these editions but the title track alone is dark enough to suggest that she is walking right on the edge. This makes her interesting. Loads of talent here.
Always a good day when the latest Tex Willer pops up on import from Norway. Mefisto is one of my favourite bad guys from the old days. Tex will save the day though, and it will be entertaining.
(My shot of said book, cover art by Claudio Villa)
Here is a couple of May releases. The Hollywood Vampires will release “Live In Rio” on May 26. Double LP or CD/DVD. The pre-ABBA album “Ring Ring” turns 50 and will be released as a Limited Edition Double LP (half speed) on May 19. There will also be five Picture Disc Singles with cool images from back in the day. I guess this might be the kick-off for a series of rereleases, which is cool.