WOLF by Tyler the creator Album Cover Analysis

WOLF by Tyler, the creator Album Cover Analysis

THE GUTENBERG PRINCIPLE AND ALBUM NAME This image disagrees with the Gutenberg Principle. Instead of having text that is in the top left hand corner, so it can be read right or down, it is actually incorporated in the photo used for the cover. This is significant because it fits the extreme casual nature of the album and gives the viewer an insight into the style of music without them having to listen to it. The title is not traditional for album covers in that the music artists name is not featured on the cover and the album name is a part of the photo used and not super imposed in post production. In doing this the cover draws the attention of the viewer to the visuals of the photograph which depicts the artist himself, leaving the viewer with a more detailed idea of the music artist than if it had just been superimposed, and gives them insight into the style and mood of the album.

THE AESTHETICS The album uses a pastel colour theme, incorporating a dull blue background that does not contrast with the hat, nor the white of the album name. The blue background is similar to that of a 90 s school photo backdrop and this is referenced in the album, it also links with the photo of the artist in the background, giving him an inhaler and ‘dorky’ look suggests conceptions about him drawing in a target audience. This is unusual in that most artists want their album covers to stand out, however, divulging from album conventions, in turn, makes the albums difference stand out. The album is named after one of the songs, WOLF, which was one of his biggest hits from this album. The song references his experiences at school which explains the albums photo and gives some detail to the nature of the cover, this assisted by other elements of the covers aesthetic.

CONCLUSION The album is a very simple one, not only with its use of colour but also composition, nor does it include the artists name. This would come across as an incomplete album cover and it does not conform to most of the conventions of covers. Yet the album does have some strong points, it contrasts heavily with other albums of the same genre giving it a difference and as the music is more alternative, the album really suits the music as an accurate representation of the artist and his music. When it comes to designing an album cover of my own I will think about this one as an example of not using media conventions but still achieving a powerful look. I think that not conforming with common conceptions is something I will probably not do as I might not be able to fully justify it but it will definitely be something I consider.