John Arcudi, Brian Azzarello, David Lapham, Tony Moore, Ann Nocenti, David Lapham and more will saddle up for Outlaw Showdown, a one-shot anthology coming in October from EC Comics and Oni Press.
While the Western genre may not be the first to come to mind when you think of classic EC Comics, the notorious publisher did release several titles featuring cowboys and outlaws.
“Ever since we first began drawing up plans for the return of EC Comics at Oni Press, we knew there were genres and stories that would fit EC like a glove – and westerns were always close to the top of that list,” said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. “It’s no secret that classic Golden Age series like Gunfighter and Saddle Justice have always been integral – if somewhat under-considered – components of EC’s destructive DNA. But, with Outlaw Showdown – and the other forthcoming genre specials that will follow in its wake – we’re aiming to enhance and amplify the combustible combination of ingredients that has made EC’s stories sing – or scream! – across 70-plus years of comics history. These are stories that will grab you tighter than a hangman’s noose . . . and leave you kicking and screaming for more before the last page is through.”
The 56-page special will feature not only new material from the creators mentioned above, but also a classic EC Comics Western tale.
The first issue will feature covers by Lee Bermejo (shown above), Tony Moore, Ladrönn, Shawn McManus and Rian Hughes.
“For years the western genre has been wildly underrepresented in modern day comics and now some of the greatest storytellers just cannot wait to get their twisted inventions to the page with shysters, cowboys and zombie or two at the helm,” said Sierra Hahn, Oni Press editor-in-chief. “We’re honored by this creative line up who will doubtless entertain and terrify until the ink runs dry.”
The one-shot rides into the sunset on Oct. 22.