Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen is expanding his creative horizons by co-authoring a new graphic novel titled “Hysteria,” slated for release in the spring. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the novel shares its name with Def Leppard’s multi-Platinum 1987 album and delves into the dark side of rock stardom.
“Hysteria” is a horror story centered on the frontwoman of an indie band called Darkside, who inherits a demonic guitar from her father’s estate that promises fame and success. Adding to the intrigue, Def Leppard themselves make a cameo in the novel, with Darkside opening for them in concert.
Damian Wassel, CEO of Vault Comics, the novel’s publisher, praised Collen’s storytelling. “Poured out on the pages of this graphic novel is a story (Phil) couldn’t tell you in a song that takes you to places Def Leppard have never gone before with their music,” he said.
Collen co-wrote “Hysteria” with Eliot Rahal, known for his work on the graphic novel “Bleed Them Dry.” Collen compared the writing process to songwriting, highlighting the synergy he felt with Rahal. “It reminded me of songwriting with someone you really like,” Collen told The Hollywood Reporter. “It was very much like that, bouncing ideas, and he would run with it.”
He added, “When you hit on something, it runs away, and you’re part of the slipstream. It was very inspiring, I gotta say.”
While the exact release date has not been announced, “Hysteria” is expected to be available in both retail and deluxe editions. Fans can also look forward to an accompanying merchandise line, including a custom-made guitar designed with Collen’s input.
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