Audiophiles and collectors alike argue that there’s nothing like holding and owning a real life, tangible vinyl record as the world continues to become more and more digital, and that the experience goes far beyond just the sound the record contains. Whether it’s the format’s large, beautiful album art, the story in the liner notes, or the satisfaction of finding a first pressing or limited run colored vinyl, the packaging can be every bit as important as the music itself.
With this, designer Rodrigo Maia has created an ongoing project titled “New Records, Old Covers”, which merges contemporary artists/albums with the nostalgic design aesthetic of old jazz album covers. What he achieves primarily through his intelligent use of typography and color is both a respectful tribute to the medium’s design history and a fun look into an alternative musical universe where doom metal and relaxing post rock live on the same visual plane.
From Rodrigo’s site:
Inspired by the work of designers like Alex Steinweiss, David Stone Martin and Reid Miles from Blue Note, I recreated these modern album covers using the the jazz era aesthetic. This is a continuous project and a homage.
The Black Keys – El Camino (2012)The Gaslight Anthem – The 59′ Sound (2008)The Antlers – Burst Apart (2011)The National – Boxer (2007)Mazzy Star – Among My Swan (1996)The National – Alligator (2005)The Cinematic Orchestra – Live At Royal Albert Hall (2008)Explosions In The Sky – All Of A Sudden I Miss Everyone (2007)Bohren & Dder Club Of Gore – Sunset Mission (2000)The National – Sad Songs For Dirty Lovers (2003)Baroness – Blue Album (2009)Church Of Misery – Master of Brutality (2001)Electric Wizard – Black Masses (2010)High On Fire – Snakes For The Divine (2010)Earthless – Live At Roadburn 2008 (2008)Jeff Buckley – Grace (2004)Electric Wizard – Come My Fanatics (1997)The Sword – Warp Riders (2010)Fleet Foxes – Helplessness Blues (2012)American Football – American Football (1999)Lovage – Music To Make Love To Your Old Lady By (2001)Touché Amoré – Is Survived By (2013)Rollins Band – Nice (2001)
<p>Garth is a do-it-all digital marketer/designer born and raised in the “City of Destiny,” Tacoma, Washington. He lives in Seattle, has a beard, enjoys pizza and coffee (not together) and tries to spread as much positivity as he can. He's at his best in a light, collaborative environment; he's at my worst when losing at Scrabble. Above all, he's always looking for ways to grow his brain.</p>
<p>Formerly the community manager for <a href="http://smile.amazon.com" target="_blank">AmazonSmile</a> and digital marketing manager at <a href="http://www.drysoda.com" target="_blank">DRY Soda</a>; he can now be found doing freelance graphic design, social media and marketing consultation.</p>
