Undead Ballads #1 from Nix Rock 'n Rolls Comics

 Undead Ballads #1 https://www.nixcomics.com/product-page/undead-ballads-1-1 is a 64-page, 7.25” x 7.25” size anthology with cover art by Michael Neno and stories by Ken Eppstein, Michael Neno, Andy Bennett, and Bob Ray Starker, published by Nix Rock 'n Rolls Comics. $15

If you're looking for an anthology that hits like a fuzz-pedal cranked to eleven and looks like a neon-drenched fever dream, look no further than Undead Ballads! Packed with garage-rock energy, supernatural absurdities, and artwork so vibrant and expressive it practically vibrates off the page, this collection is an absolute blast from start to finish.

The book kicks off with Eddie and Squid Won't Die where detective Markie Hill is trying to figure out why her undead pawns won't stay nicely buried. The titular Eddie and Squid are also on the hunt for answers—mostly because their decomposing flesh is starting to kick up a real stench. Naturally, like any high-intellect folks in a crisis, everyone converges on the local bookstore to do some research. The visual storytelling shines through hilariously emotive zombie grimaces, sharp slapstick timing, and rich, colorful panels that turn rotting flesh into an absolute artistic delight.

Next up is The Vicar: Looking for Danger, a story that kicks off in full-throttle fashion at the New Rose, a greasy West Texas dive bar, where Alberto quits the Vicar's Choir right after an explosive set. But there’s zero down-time for garage-rock monster-slaying when rockabilly werewolves come strutting in, sniffing for payback! The art here is sheer adrenaline—dynamic action beats, wildly expressive character design, and a visual rhythm that practically oozes pomade, silver bullets, and pure rock-and-roll swagger.

Rounding out the set is The Uncanny Crystal Skulls, Aleister Crowe treats his unfortunate cellmate to a lovely '60s garage tune. Specifically, a delightfully twisted murder ballad about hacking your bandmates' heads off just to land a record deal! The artwork hits a high note with wildly stylized expressions, moody yet striking color palettes, and panel layouts that make you feel the raw, crunchy rhythm of the song.

Loud, funny, visually gorgeous, and utterly unhinged in the best way possible. Undead Ballads is a must-read for anyone who likes their horror-comedy dipped in neon ink and played at maximum volume, and it comes with a recommended playlist!