1) Loose Ends #2

Issue one of this locally produced southern crime comic sold out across the country, and was received well by comics fans, journalists, and professionals alike.  Creators Jason Latour, Chris Brunner, and Rico Renzi have clearly put lots of work into crafting this series, and it continues to show in this week’s issue #2.  Loose Ends operates with a fine understanding of the workings of crime fiction, but is equally conscious of the cinematic qualities of crime films.  Most importantly, the creators take this knowledge and execute their narrative with an awareness of how to tell solid comics stories.  Stay tuned to the Heroes blog later in the week, where I’ll have an in depth interview with writer Jason Latour.

2) Ultimate Comics Ultimates #1

The next chapter in the story of the Ultimate universe Avengers comes to us courtesy of Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic.  Marvel is kicking off the new direction of their Ultimate titles with this book, and these creators will bring a level of depth and craftsmanship to these characters that should make them appealing to those who like their comics entertaining and intelligent.

3) Wolverine #14

I’m spotlighting this last issue of the Red Right Hand storyline because it’s a great issue for those  who are curious to see how writer Jason Aaron aims to direct his upcoming Wolverine and the X-men book.  Aaron continues to dig into Wolverine’s psyche and emotions, and continues to pit him against villains who can really hurt him in varying ways.  This is solid, dependable, entertaining comics writing.

4) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1

Whether you loved the Turtles comics in the ’80’s or the entertainment juggernaut they became in the ’90’s, you’ll probably enjoy this new Turtles series from IDW.  Several of the series’ classic elements are still present, and co-creator Kevin Eastman is also on hand working on both story and layouts.  The art from Dan Duncan looks to me like a nice new take on the characters that still manages to retain some of the original’s energy.

> Bonus Picks of the Week: the jumbo sized Dark Horse Presents #3, Kick Ass 2 #3, Action Comics #904, Comics Journal #301, Captain America and Bucky #621, Graveyard of Empires #2, and Brigthest Day Aftermath: Search for Swamp Thing #3.