Artefacts from Practical Dissertation

Design ideologies and practices from the Blue Note record label applied to a new genre 60 years on, Stoner Rock.

The research body of this project came from analysing the cover art of Blue Note Records. The label's manifesto to put out exceptional jazz that was for pure musical expression, not commercial values. Therefore their visual style had to be just as exceptional and reflect the values of the music. Developed by the two original designers: Paul Bacon and John Hermansader laid the foundations for Reid Miles to build an extensive portfolio of approximately 500 cover designs. Along with the raw, emotional session photography to work with from Francis Wolff.

Key Project Information:

Date: December 2023 - January 2024

Cover Design &
Photography: Robin

Venue: Complex Studios, Deptford

Band: Seance, Too Many Zooz

For: Ravensbourne University London

Tools: Photoshop, Bridge, Canon EOS 6D mk.ii, Canon 17-40mm, Sigma 70-200mm

Practical Research: Too Many Zooz On the 4th July 2023 I photographed Too Many Zooz at the Jazz Cafe in Camden, I utilised these photos to create three album covers. My aim with this practical section is not to imitate any pre-existing covers but create new ones from the ideology. I created a mock label called INDIGO TONE with a play on the oval/rectangle stamp that was iconic with Blue Note and utilised the same elements of copy type.

Rehearsal Session Photography: Seance