Tales of the Justice Society of America Presents: A “Back To The Bins!” Special – Superman vs Shazam!

Scott Gardner and Michael Bailey return to the Back to the Bins studio for a special episode focused on the 1978 DC comic 'Superman vs. Shazam,' officially titled 'When Earths Collide.' They explain that this episode was prompted by a listener request from Jose Rivera on Facebook, who mentioned picking up the comic at a show. The hosts note that while this is loosely a crossover with their other show, Tales of the Justice Society of America, the comic itself doesn't directly involve the Justice Society. They detail the comic's production: it was written by Jerry Conway, with art by Rich Buckler and Dick Giordano, lettering by Gasper Saladino, coloring by Adrian Roy, and editing by Julia Schwartz. The original cover price was $2.00 in 1978. Scott and Michael describe the comic's plot, where the sorcerer Carmang summons villains Black Adam and the Cormorant to draw Earth-S and Earth-1 together, forcing Superman and Captain Marvel to battle. They synopsize the story chapter by chapter, including interludes and the roles of supporting characters like Supergirl and Mary Marvel. The hosts praise Buckler's artwork, particularly the fight scenes and character designs, while critiquing the villain Carmang as lame but forgivable given the comic's action focus. They discuss Black Adam's character evolution, comparing his portrayal here to later stories by writers like Jeff Johns and Gail Simone. Scott and Michael also analyze the inside cover's side-by-side comparison of Superman and Captain Marvel, noting differences in powers and weaknesses. They reflect on the comic's influence, such as inspiring a scene in 'Kingdom Come,' and debate how Captain Marvel's identity works pre- and post-Crisis. The episode concludes with recommendations for further reading, including the 'Power of Shazam' graphic novel and a recent trade paperback reprint.

As heard by us

A Superman vs. Captain Marvel special with relaxed studio banter, crossover beats, and a careful magnetic-field fix.

Back to the Bins opens in an easy reunion, with Scott Gardner and Michael Bailey settling into the studio, comparing the new setup with the old one, and then turning to their Superman vs. Captain Marvel discussion.

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Why you'd press play

If you like your superhero fights with studio banter, this one returns with the lights on.

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