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It's surprising to learn that one of the much-lauded JOE SIMON & JACK KIRBY comicbooks of the 1950s only lasted for 6 issues. Was it the brevity of its run that engendered the warm affection in which the series was later held, or was it truly a significant title fully deserving of its exalted and legendary status? When I first read these stories in the early '90s, I must confess that I was hardly overwhelmed, but I intend to re-read them and see if they're worthy of the plaudits they receive in the history books. I'll let you know, but perhaps you had to be a kid back in the '50s to fully appreciate these mags, as the things of one's youth can often seem better than they actually are.
If you read these mags back in the day (or more recently), feel free to share your insights, opinions and observations in the comments section. For the moment though, just enjoy looking at these 6 classic cowboy covers from 60-plus years ago.
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I must admit to being quite impressed by some of Kirby's earlier stuff, now that I'm finally getting a chance to see it for the first time. I like the humour and the freer style of art, certainly in comparison to some of his later work which always felt a bit blocky and po-faced for my taste.
ReplyDeleteIn fact, I've been pleasantly surprised by other Western art that I've seen recently for the first time by artists (Gene Colan, Gil Kane) that I normally associate purely with superhero comics, and Kirby's another one to add to the list.
As is Don Heck, GB. His Western art was also rock-solid. Worth checking out.
ReplyDeleteWesterns are not my favourite genre although there are some great titles out there - DCs Jonah Hex (pre the NEW 52 version) was great with some amazing artists, there's also the late Doug Wildeys stunning artwork on "Rio" and Jean Giraud's (Moebius ) Blueberry - Alex Toth and John Severin did some great Westerns (Severins art on the err gay "Rawhide Kid" which Kid reviewed recently is worth a look ) - Totally agree with your comments on Don Hecks western art .
ReplyDeleteRawhide Kid's STRAIGHT, I tell you, McScotty - STRAIGHT! (That was a gay Skrull impersonating the Rawhide Kid in that series. Reed Richards told me, so I know it's true!)
ReplyDeleteFirst comic I ever remember reading was a Kid Colt comic.
ReplyDeletei must have been about five or six years old.
i dont know what issue it was but when i did some digging I discovered who was drawing it.
My favourite artists have always been Jack Kirby and Gil Kane.
Maybe that first exposure triggered something in me.
Probably did, Baab. First exposures usually trigger something in all of us. In my case, I called the police and had the man arrested. (Little joke there.)
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