There's no denying James Robinson's talent, but there's also no denying that this premier story arc for Legends of the DC Universe isn't his best work or anywhere near the middle. In fact I'll go as far to say that this is probably Robinson's worst story.
Typically a hound for DC history, this arc - called "U.L.T.R.A. Humanite" - totally ignores established DCU and world history. Set early in Superman's career (we're talking mid-80's here), Superman becomes very busy with a series of incidents that distract him enough to allow mind-bending criminal, Madness, access and free reign on Metropolis' banks. On the flip side, Supes is investigating a muder in association with Lexcorp security, finding out that a scientist is exacting revenge after his murder and his wife's by taking over other people's minds, becoming the ULTRA Humanite.
First problem, the ULTRA Humanite is a golden age villian who has survived over the years by jumping between bodies, encountering the JSA many times. Robinson retcons his origin here in this 3-part story, and very badly (mad scientist takes revenge... oookay). The second problem is the fact that Lexcorp has highly advanced technology that they didn't develop until waaaay after Superman's arrival in Metropolis. This is really odd for Robinson to write a story so sloppily, having used ULTRA Humanite well in the Golden Age mini series and writing great history stories in the Batman Legends series.
Perhaps the most disappointing is the pairing of Robinson with one of the worst artists in comics, Val Semeiks. Choppy lines and inconsistent character rendering cannot be fixed by even the best inker, which Neary is not. What I did like was the Glen Orbik covers. I have never seen the Man of Steel look more human, or more powerful.
I look forward to the second arc in this new series, William Messner-Loebs, Mike Deodato, Wonder Woman and Steve Rude... now that smells good.