Time Bomb Comics releases second issue of Spectrum

By John Freeman on October 25, 2023

Following the success of last year’s Gerry Anderson-inspired Spectrum anthology, Time Bomb Comics has just released the series’ second issue, on sale in newsagents now, with all-new stories from largely returning creative teams.

Gerry Anderson’s work was a huge part of the British television landscape from the 1960s to the 90s, many of his shows becoming favourites of many science fiction fans. The three titles included in Spectrum span the genre, from alien fighting to space-based police procedural.

As with Issue One, the lineup features New Captain Scarlet, Space Precinct and, in a well-timed move, Terrahawks, as that show celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The creative teams for the Spectrum anthology Issue 2 are Steve Tanner (writer), Pete Woods (artist), John Charles (colours) and James Grey (letters), on “New Captain Scarlet”; Richmond A. Clements (writer) and James Gray (art and lettering) on “Space Precinct”; and Dan Whitehead (writer), Ste Pickford and Gary Crutchley (artists), Owen Watts (colours) and James Grey (lettering) on “Terrahawks”.

The cover will be drawn by Steve Pugh, known for his work at DC, Marvel, Dark Horse and 2000AD.

The first issue of Spectrum outperformed sales and critical expectations, with the title being sold in both newsagents and specialist comic book stores, enabling it to reach a wide range of readers. Time Bomb Comics says the second issue is expected to go even further in reaching both old and new audiences.

“We’re delighted with issue #2 of Spectrum, especially as it’s part of the Terrahawks anniversary,” says Time Bomb Comics chief, Steve Tanner. “It’s wonderful to be able to see our books out in the streets and to know they’re reaching people!

“The sales success of Spectrum issue #1 demonstrates how much Gerry’s work resonates, and that there’s a huge audience of people who are just waiting to start reading comics!”

“I’m delighted to see how the Gerry Anderson titles and characters have evolved in the second issue,” entertainment chief, writer, producer and director, Jamie Anderson added. “The Time Bomb team have kept the authentic feel of the shows and the comic looks fantastic.”

In a deal brokered by Larkshead Licensing, this 44-page anthology is the second publication released in partnership with Anderson Entertainment.

• Spectrum #2 is on sale in newsagents across the UK now. Web: timebombcomics.com

John Freeman

The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.

Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.

He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.