Calling all Def Leppard fans and graphic novel enthusiasts! Prepare to be surprised (and maybe a little intrigued) by the upcoming release of “Hysteria: The Graphic Novel.” Based on the band’s iconic 1987 album, this project marks a unique venture for both Def Leppard and the world of comics.
Now, before you raise an eyebrow at the idea of a metal-infused graphic novel (Def Leppard leans more towards hard rock than pure metal!), there’s more to the story. This isn’t just a blatant cash grab. Phil Collen, Def Leppard’s co-lead guitarist, has co-written the graphic novel alongside Elliot Rahal. The artwork comes courtesy of Alex Schlitz, making her debut in the graphic novel world.
Leaked pages online showcase some truly impressive visuals, suggesting this won’t be a phoned-in project. However, the price tag might give some fans pause. The standard edition clocks in at £39, with a deluxe edition for £63 and a collector’s edition for a whopping £117. There’s even a signed edition available for a cool £389! Check out each edition at vaultcomics.com/collections/def-leppards-hysteria.
While the price may seem steep, it’s worth noting that “Hysteria: The Graphic Novel” is a hefty 192 pages and comes in hardcover format. So, for die-hard Def Leppard fans with a passion for graphic novels, it might just be worth the splurge.
The illustrated rock bands
This project also marks a resurgence of a trend – bands creating their own graphic novels. Bands like Kiss, Alice Cooper, and Iron Maiden have all ventured into this territory with varying degrees of success.
Looking for another potential rock band ripe for a graphic novel adaptation? Look no further than The Darkness! Their music and stage presence practically scream out for a visually dynamic comic book translation. Unfortunately, a search reveals existing graphic novels titled “The Darkness,” but none related to the band (yet!).
This news raises a broader point about modern rock and roll. Many artists today seem to take themselves far too seriously, lacking the playfulness and fun that characterized earlier eras. Rock music is, at its core, entertainment. Def Leppard’s embrace of a graphic novel, even with its potentially hefty price tag, feels like a refreshing departure from that trend. It’s a reminder that music can be fun, even silly sometimes, and that entertainment is ultimately about having a good time.
So, Def Leppard fans, will you be pre-ordering “Hysteria: The Graphic Novel”? The choice is yours, but one thing’s for sure: this project promises to be a unique and visually stunning addition to the world of both comics and rock memorabilia.