Episode 106: "Homecoming" & "Mandarin Spawn" - Spawn #164 & #165

Armageddon is over and we've got a doozy of a couple of issues for you this week. First, an epilogue of sorts for the last mega arc that really paints Al in a pretty precarious light which feels like a bit of an odd move this late into the book's run. (We are aware it's likely a feint but taking the story as read, it is a bit concerning.) Then we get the origin story for a cool action figure: Mandarin Spawn. It draws on some pretty worn tropes but the art is really great. For this episode, a trigger warning for some discussion of violence against women, problematic depictions of disabled people and domestic abuse.  This week's recommendations are to check out some Zamrock, a genre that emerged in the 70s in Zambia that fused traditional African music with the popular rock music of the time to create something wholly unique and diferent. Ngozi Family is a great band to start with. You should also check out Philadelphia's lovely indie rockers, Hop Along and their record "Bark Your Head Off, Dog." It's a few years old but it still hits.  As always you can check out George's band, La Cigarette, at coolbutrude.com. Thanks to Freesound for being a great resource for our intro atmosphere and sound effects. Thanks to Blake Whitlow for the always useful Spawn Reading Order. Thank YOU for listening!