Elric: The Balance Lost #2
Elric created by Michael Moorcock
Written by Chris Roberson
Art by Francesco Biagini
BOOM! Studios
$3.99
Release date: August 3, 2011

I love this series. Yes, I know it’s only had two full issues, but the set up is awesome. It looks like Chris Roberson has narrowed the current theme to include three well-known incarnations of the Eternal Champion: Elric of Melnibone, Dorian Hawkmoon, and Corum Jhaelen Irsei. The twist is that he has introduced a new character, Eric Beck, who is just starting to realize that he is another of these champions. The writing is superb, I sincerely hope Michael Moorcock is as satisfied as I am with it. The quick changes between the layers of the multiverse, the phrasing, the whole atmosphere of the comic just embodies everything we know and love about the Eternal Champion.

This issue was about discovery, little bits and pieces of information are dropped that let both the reader and the character know that something is amiss. Time travel, always a mainstay in Moorcock’s work, is the perfect way to bring new information to the newest champion… though he is still figuring out his place in all of this. It’s a perfect lead-in to what is obviously going to be an excellent story. Couple that with the excellent art and you have the makings of an epic tale. The cover alone made me giddy — Stormbringer has always had that effect on me.

I can only say that this comic was without fault. Usually there is something in a “reimagined” character that leaves me feeling let down, but I just couldn’t find a thing wrong — unless you consider that I kept flipping pages and got disappointed that it seemed to end so quickly. That said, the story just sort of grabs hold of you and doesn’t let go. I am eagerly anticipating the next issue, but am saddened that I have to wait three more weeks to read it.

Pick this series up and read it, even if you haven’t read the books. It will transport you to a plethora of worlds that just ooze classic fantasy. Not your normal sword and sorcery style, either…a modern take on an already awesome universe of badassness. I love it and so will you.