Exclusive Preview: The Chief Is Back In Doom Patrol #7

In addition to turning heads with its Rebirth initiative last year, DC made a bold statement by launching a new imprint known as Young Animal. Sprung from the mind of Gerard Way (yes, the guy from My Chemical Romance), it’s granted quite the new perspective on the DC Universe. Some books in the line offer fresh takes on lesser known characters, while others serve up something new like Mother Panic. To be honest, that one has captured my attention more than any other because Gotham City could probably be considered my second home, but that’s a conversation for another day.

If one title could be considered what one would call a “flagship book” though, I’d have to say that it’d most certainly be Doom Patrol. Not only is it written by Way himself, but one need only flip through it in order to see the brand’s mission statement in practice; it’s somewhat psychedelic and completely uncompromising. Basically, it’s like venturing down a water slide straight into Grant Morrison’s brain.

So, if you’re late to the party, now’s the time to board the bandwagon because issue #7 looks to be a great jumping on point for new readers. One reason I say that is because Niles Caulder has returned, probably much to the delight of old school Doom Patrol fans.

Here, check out this synopsis to learn more:

How have you been, Niles Caulder? The Chief is back, and he’s ready to reshape the new Doom Patrol to be just like the old Doom Patrol—a prospect not everyone is happy with. But the team’s former leader hasn’t grown less manipulative in his old age, so nobody make any rash decisions. Pretty sure he’s up to something. Michael Allred (iZOMBIE, Silver Surfer) joins the team for this special issue.

You caught the part that said Michael Allred is contributing artwork, right? Truth be told, he’s a great fit for the series, and should further entice the curious when it comes to deciding whether to pick up this installment. Hey, at the very least, you’re in for one gorgeous page after another.

Doom Patrol #7 arrives in comic shops on Wednesday, July 26.

Credits:

Writer: Gerard Way

Art & Cover: Michael Allred

Variant Cover: Nick Derington