SYSTEM OF A DOWN's John Dolmayan Shuts Down Torpedo Comics in Vegas

In a move that sends shockwaves through the comic and metal communities alike, John Dolmayan, the powerhouse drummer of SYSTEM OF A DOWN, has closed the doors of Torpedo Comics in Las Vegas after nearly ten years of operation. A sign on the shop's door expresses heartfelt gratitude to the local fans: "Thank you to the Las Vegas community for supporting us for the last 9 years!" But while the bricks and mortar may be gone, Torpedo Comics will continue its legacy online, ensuring that collectors can still hunt for those elusive gems at torpedocomics.com.

Described as the largest collectibles retailer in Nevada, Torpedo Comics was more than just a shop; it was a treasure trove for comic aficionados. Founded on Dolmayan's lifelong obsession with comic books, the store specialized in Golden Age and Silver Age back issues, catering to a passionate fanbase that craved rare finds. Before the physical store opened, Dolmayan had spent over twenty years scouring for comics, turning his childhood passion into a lucrative venture.

Reflecting on his early days, Dolmayan shared, "I started selling in the early '90s, because at 18 years old, it's tough to go to your parents and say, 'Can I have some money for comic books?'" His initial foray into the business was fraught with financial pitfalls, but through grit and perseverance, he transformed his hobby into a profitable side gig that ultimately outpaced his day jobs, even prompting him to take a pay cut to join the iconic metal band.

Despite the closing of the Vegas location, Dolmayan's passion for comics remains undeterred. The drummer has previously criticized modern comic shops for losing their identity, stating they’ve become "glorified gaming stores." With a vision to create an immersive comic book experience, Dolmayan channeled his love for the art form into his music, incorporating custom illustrations from legendary comic artists onto his drum kit during SYSTEM OF A DOWN’s 2006 tour.

Dolmayan's journey from a young collector to a reputable store owner is a testament to his dedication to the comic world. Even while touring with one of the biggest bands on the planet, he never lost sight of his passion, frequenting comic shops around the globe in search of rare collectibles. His venture into authorship with series like "Ascencia" and "Dead Samurai" further solidifies his commitment to intertwining music and comic storytelling.