Chris SPROUSE / Kevin NOWLAN; WildC.A.T.s / Aliens #1 cover

Chris Sprouse has worked with a great many inkers but I think this particular pairing with Kevin Nowlan might have to be my favorite. On the strength of the artwork alone I bought three copies.

But deep down I dreaded the industry's dirty little secret that states that too often Great Artwork = Lackluster Story.

Man, was I pleased to learn that the story itself really rocked! This comic was my introduction to the writing of Warren Ellis. The book was severely under-ordered, no one suspecting what a pivotal chapter it would be in the whole Stormwatch saga and the formation of The Authority.

Sprouse, coming off of a successful run on Supreme, stepped up his game even further showing off his deft handling of superheroes and science fiction, with Nowlan adding just the right touch of suspense and horror with his masterful inks. Add Laura Martin (nee DePuy) on computer colors and you have yourself one fantastic comic.