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Critical Hit Parader

Weekly content on the intersection of music and tabletop roleplaying games.

Newsletter · By Matt Thompson · Official site

Indexed issues, last 90 days
13
Latest publication
Sep 30, 2026
Audience
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Earliest in this view
Jul 8, 2026

Latest issues

  1. Issue · Sep 30, 2026

    More Fantasy Vans Plus Motorcycles (opens the original)

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    In a previous newsletter, we took a deep dive into custom van art with a focus on Frank Frazetta-inspired vanning. This topic warranted a follow-up as readers pointed out how other fantasy artists also inspired vehicle owners. First, Robert Garven from the band Cirith Ungol shared a picture of a van that featured a rendition of Michael Whelan’s Stormbringer artwork that adorned the band’s classic Frost and Fire album:<a class="image-link image2 is-viewable-img" href="https://substackcdn.com/imag

  2. Issue · Sep 23, 2026

    In Tune With Tolkien: Izzy Mahoubi, Endor Lindë, & Eye of Melian (opens the original)

    Excerpt · Positive tone

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    I was catching up on my DVR recordings of the game show Jeopardy and was excited to see this category that seemed tailor made for Critical Hit Parader:<img alt="A TV showing a Jeopardy category called "In Tune With Tolkien."" class="sizi

  3. Issue · Sep 16, 2026

    New Michael Whelan and Ian Miller Album Covers (opens the original)

    Excerpt · Positive tone

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    This is the first Critical Hit Parader newsletter following the passing of my wife, Liz. Thank you for your support and patience while I have been on hiatus. I’ve collected a considerable newsletter topic backlog of exciting music recently released and announced with ties to the fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres appreciated by so many tabletop roleplaying gamers. I plan to share these with you over the next several weeks, starting with new music from two metal bands that are Critical H

  4. Issue · Sep 9, 2026

    Returning Next Week (opens the original)

    Excerpt · Positive tone

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    Critical Hit Parader remains on hiatus this week following the passing of my wife, Liz, and will return next week. In the meantime, I’m sharing an excerpt from her obituary for those who want to learn just a little about what made her so special to me and all who knew her…<div class="image2-inset"

  5. Issue · Sep 2, 2026

    Appreciation (opens the original)

    Excerpt · Positive tone

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    Critical Hit Parader remains on hiatus this week due to the passing of my beloved wife, Liz. Many, many thanks to all who commented on my post last week, sent me private messages of support, or honored Liz in your own newsletters. I have read each one with tears in my eyes and bottomless appreciation in my heart for your kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness.

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