REAVE - AD1999
DIGITAL DESIGN, DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION, ANALOG ILLUSTRATION
ALBUM ARTWORK design for a BOSTON BASED METAL BAND with the GOAL to EMPHASIZE THE THEMES OF THE ALBUM THROUGH THE COVER ART.
Design Brief
Metal music is often associated with bold and striking visuals that capture the intensity and power of the music. The album art for a metal band is an essential part of their identity, often serving as a visual representation of the themes and emotions explored in the music.
A core source of inspiration for the album art is mystical beasts. Reave drew the inspiration for the central theme of their album AD1999 from ancient myths and legends, and with this central theme in mind, the album art was intricately designed to bring these stories to life. For the cover, a scene is depicted from Norse mythology. This not only creates a powerful and striking image, emphasizing the ideas spoken about in the album but reinforces the band's connection to the roots of its genre.
The Challenge
The secondary themes of darkness, death, and the supernatural, highlighted in their music, are also reflected through the album's art imagery. Created through the medium of a charcoal drawing, which was then digitally enhanced to create the subtle gradient observed, This artwork creates a sense of anticipation and foreboding, perfectly complementing the dark yet energetic atmosphere of the music.
The Strategy
The Solution
Ultimately, the artwork serves as a powerful complement to the music, creating a complete sensory experience that captures the listener's imagination and emotions.
