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Dec 19, 2014 Fantagraphics By Hays Davis

Calling Zap Comix the Lenny Bruce and Ramones of comic books wouldn’t be inaccurate, though that still doesn’t go far enough in describing its incalculable impact. Considering how the Zap artists dedicated this set to those who were “harassed, jailed, fined, or prosecuted” for selling Zap at least offers a glimmer of its historical weight.

Complete collects every issue of Zap, going back to its 1968 debut, in a limited, five-volume hardcover boxed set. The first volume correctly starts with Zap 0, the artwork for which had been stolen (but print-worthy copies later located), introducing the world to Robert Crumb creations such as Mr. Natural and Whiteman.

Crumb followed his first issue with the inclusion of a stable of artists that joined him in bringing ‘60s counterculture to Zap‘s pages while freely and hilariously satirizing anything ripe for takedown with savage glee. Complete Zap Comix may be pricey for some, but its contents are unquestionably priceless. (www.fantagraphics.com)

Author rating: 10/10