Dark Horse Comics; $4.99 

Some characters disappear for years and return feeling completely out of place. That isn't the case with Concrete: Stars Over Sand #1. Reading this issue feels like catching up with an old friend who hasn't changed in all the ways that matter. 

Written and illustrated by Paul Chadwick, the story finds Concrete lost in the desert, suffering from amnesia and wandering through a world that no longer makes sense to him. Confused, frightened, and covered in blood, he becomes the center of a growing mystery as his friends desperately search for him before it's too late. 

What struck me most is how effortlessly Chadwick slips back into this world. The storytelling remains thoughtful and character-driven, even as the mystery unfolds. There is tension throughout the issue, but it's the emotional uncertainty surrounding Concrete's condition that keeps you invested. 

Chadwick's artwork remains a highlight. The pages have a timeless quality that immediately brought back memories of the original series. The colors and overall presentation carry a nostalgic feel without seeming dated, while the desert landscapes help create an atmosphere of isolation and unease. 

One of the reasons Concrete has always stood apart from other comics is that it rarely relies on spectacle. Even with strange events unfolding and questions piling up, the focus remains on the characters and their experiences. That approach still works remarkably well here. 

Released by Dark Horse Comics on June 17, 2026, Concrete: Stars Over Sand #1 is a strong return for one of comics' most unique creations. It feels every bit as thoughtful and distinctive as the classic stories that made the series a favorite in the first place. 

This is the first chapter of a five-issue limited series, and after this opening installment, I'm already looking forward to seeing where the journey leads. 

–Scott Schlazer