This horror-western tale of a messed up family comes to a close this issue.  With Jason Shawn Alexander’s deserved praise for his art, Dead Irons is a unique visceral rollercoaster of darkness and evil personified.

James Kuhoric’s tale of the Irons family concludes with our flawed hero Silas confronting his siblings, a vampire, a werewolf, and a psycho killer, as well as the climatic throw down with ma and pa.  The Irons family is cursed because papa bargained with the devil.  Hoping to come to full power, dad embarks on a blood ritual to destroy his kids, bring his wife back to life, and rule the earth more than likely.  Silas is the only person who stands in his way.  Can he turn his siblings to face dad?  Will the curse be destroyed?  Read it and find out.

Alexander’s art is stronger than the story.  I thought the conclusion was predictable and forced.  It wasn’t bad, but not jaw-dropping.  The build-up did not match the payoff leaving me that “Is that it?” feeling as I read the last pages.  Alexander’s art is beautiful and the truly the series’ MVP.  Gritty in its realism and darkness, it communicates the mood and frantic nature of the supernatural action.

With doubt whether or not the bad guy is really dead, room is left for future installments.  I certainly look forward to that prospect.  Creepy, nasty, and Western is a good mix.

3.5 out of 5

This western horror tale continues to entertain.  If you want a recap of the basic premise, check out our review of issue number one.

I was concerned that author James Kuhoric’s sophomore issue might disappoint.  I’m happy to say it only got better.  In this issue, back-story is explored via flashbacks.  Kuhoric achieves a balance between flashbacks and progressing the current story forward.  What we learn about the Irons family is creepy, sick and actually scary.

Jason Shawn Alexander’s art sets a definitive tone.  It’s wispy, dusty, dark, and achieves a mode rather than a straightforward picture.  He brings to life the eerie showdown this issue sets the stage for between Silas and his siblings.

I did laugh at a preview blurb I read about this title.  It’s being touted as “this year’s biggest and best supernatural western tale.”  I didn’t realize it beat out so many other titles in this vast genre!  Regardless, Dead Irons does deserve praise.  When this issue ended, I was ticked.  What happens next?  I wished I had Issue 3 in my hands.  That’s always good thing.

4 out of 5

I’m not the type of guy to run out and buy a horror western title.  I picked up Dead Irons for its kick ass cover.  I’m glad I did.

It was refreshing to have a first issue that didn’t overwhelm you with character description and back-story.  It rests on character’s actions with strong enough panels, showing who everyone is and where the plot is going.

James Kuhoric’s tale of Silas Irons and his siblings is solid read.  This issue establishes the characters and their horrific little secrets.  The action simmers with that “there’s a storm a brewing” feel, leading you wait for more.

Jason Shawn Alexander’s art is the star.  It’s gritty and frantic, creating a creepy world waiting for bloodshed.  There is a drawback to this artistic style; it’s hard to make out who’s who at times.  However, I enjoy the scary and dirty mood that is created.

3.5 out of 5