Sandman Mystery Theatre #22

DC Vertigo's atmospheric noir series hits a deeply unsettling chord with this January 1995 installment — the cover photograph captures a figure's hands poised over piano keys, a glass of amber liquid resting nearby, all accompanied by the chilling tagline "...the sonata cut short by an unexpected note." The "Dr. Death" arc continues into its second act, written by Matt Wagner and Steven T. Seagle, with interior art by Guy Davis and Vince Locke bringing their characteristically moody linework to the story. Cover design by Gavin Wilson and Richard Bruning makes this issue feel like a pulp fever dream, blending photographic unease with hand-drawn skull-and-caduceus imagery along the margins.