There is no shortage of Christmas albums…covering everything from traditional hymns to some of pop cultures finest trying to create music that evokes the feelings of the season. Most of these album covers have your traditional Christmas elements (Christmas trees, presents, snowflakes, red and green colors, etc…)…but there is also no shortage of “interesting” finds. So we are going to explore a few of them that I find to be most unusual in this special edition of the Judged by the cover podcast. A Very Special Christmas To kick off our ugly Christmas sweater episode, I have an album cover that I have always found to be odd, but I didn’t realize how important this album was until I got into the. The album, A Very Special Christmas, is a compilation album that came out in Oct of 1987 and it has some huge names on it… for example….Madonna, sting, Whitney Houston, U2, RUN DMC….and much much more!! These are some of the biggest names of the MTV era of music, and their contributions to this album shaped how pop culture and Christmas music sound and go together. It also made it “cool” in the eyes of artist… SO much so that now if you name any big artist today…Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Bob Dylan, John Legend…they all have Christmas albums. You can also think of it this way…without this the now Christmas Mega Hit “All I Want For Christmas” may have never existed…..which now that I think about it, might not be a bad thing….but I digress….back to the album. The album producer, Jimmy Iovine, created this album as a tribute to his beloved father who loved Christmas and the holiday’s, who tragically passed away in 1985. Bruce Springsteen had called Iovine to offer his condolences, and kind of reacting in the moment said to him “I’m going to make a christmas album…Jimmy also wanted to keep this album pure, and keep money out of the equation, so he had to find something to due with the proceeds of the album. Of all things Jimmy found his organization to give the proceeds to at a Special Olympics wrestling event. It was a charity event, and they didn’t have or couldn’t get the “real” wrestlers so they had actors playing their roles. He believed in what the Special Olympics was trying to do, so they decided all the proceeds would go to that origanization. This album spawned 10 more albums, and collectively (as of dec 20, 2022) has raised $145 million dollars for the Special Olympics!!! Now let’s talk about this album cover. I will start by stating that it’s not terrible….I guess my main gripe with it, is that it doesn’t scream (or even whisper) Christmas to me. Iovine enlisted the help of pop artist and world celebrated graffitist Keith Haring to design the cover art. Example of Keith Haring's art style Keith Haring was an American artist that emerged from the New York City graffiti subculture of the 1980’s. HIs style was simple and animated imagery that usually was outlined figures (people, dogs, shapes, etc…) and was also usually very colorful with thick black outlines. He also used lines to show movement or animation similar to those you would find in a comic book. The cover has a bright red background with gold art and lettering. The main art piece is described as a haloed figure cradling a child. If you can image a simple outline drawing of a person, holding a baby…thats surrounded by a box that in a nutshell is what we have.  Around the main figures head we have lines that would indicate light, or possibly excitement. I’m guessing that the meaning of this is a play on the original Christmas story of Mary holding Jesus…but given this is also a very “cultural” album, with proceeds going to the Special Olympics…it could also be celebrating the specialness of a child or of all children. Although in and of itself it is a great art piece…I struggle to see “Christmas” in this. I know that I for one struggle to understand some modern art styles, but I just don’t get the Christmas vibes. I love the hard work, the intentionality, and the mission of the album…but unfortunately I don’t love the cover art. The same artwork would continue on for all the albums, in one form or another, and in different colors and styles. I will share some of them on the Notes page for this episode. You can find the blog post with all the digital content for these episodes at jwcreates.com/notes and look for the post corresponding with this episode. So that’s our first Ugly Christmas sweater album, what do you think of this album cover…? Happy Holi-dee he next victim…I mean album cover fits into the category of awkward family photo worthy. Do you remember when the “awkward family photo” style took over the internet, and actually became its own greeting card style…? If you are unsure of what I’m talking about a quick scroll through the website awkwardfamilyphotos.com  will answer all your questions. The album in question here is titled Happy Holi-dee, by Lenny Dee. You catch that fun pun there….. Lenny Dee was an American virtuoso organist who played many styles of music. His albums were mostly categorized as easy listening and space age pop. Surprisingly there isn’t a lot of info on the internet regarding this album, but thanks to the YouTube channel LP & Laundry, I got this information about the album. From the back of the album it describes it as such…”Organist Lenny Dee, about the merriest music maker you’re apt to meet south of Santa’s workshop, presents in this album a sparkling collection of the most popular Christmas songs. As for the cover…boy is there a lot of fun stuff to discuss. We have ole Lenny Dee himself dressed up as Saint Nick….minus the beard (which we will discuss that more in a sec). and not like some people who just throw on the Santa hat and red clothing, he is in the full Santa suit with the big black belt, the long white hair and of course the hat. He is posing with not 1 or 2 but 3 toy poodles, all of which have this I don’t want to be here stare. And you have some Christmas presents in the shot and for a last nice touch there is a snow flake and a star in the top right corner. SO back to the no beard….I can imagine a couple of reasons for the no beard, but it kind of feels like a cop out to me. If you’re going to commit to the full Santa up-fit…you gotta do the beard too. Now a couple reasons why I image he didn’t do the beard, first being the dogs. I can’t confirm this bit of info but I’m guessing these are his dogs (because he was supposedly a big fan of poodles)…and they probably wouldn’t want to participate in photos with him in a beard. Also and probably a more important reason is people being able to recognize Lenny Dee since his image is/was his brand. Speaking of these poodles, they are staring away from the camera, off to the side where I’m sure someone is trying to get their attention so it looks like they are staring at the camera. It adds to the awkwardness of this photo and gives the dogs this stone cold look of “please get us out of here”. If you are ever digging through some old vinyl and find one of these albums, it’s actually a pretty fun listen. Again shout out to the YouTube page LP & Laundry for his play through of the album. It always helps to get to listen to an album when you’re looking to discuss or dissect it. Ella Wishes you a Swinging Christmas Boy did I save the best for last. Although there is a lot of interesting imagery out there on Christmas albums. I feel there is none out there quite as “unique” as this. The one beautiful thing about Christmas music as a theme, is that there is a lot of imagery that you can use that will make people think of Christmas, or invoke Christmas memories of the past….but would you consider using a unicorn as the main image on your Christmas album….? Neither would I…but Ella Fitzgerald did. In 1960 the album Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas was released by Ella Fitzgerald. Ella Fitzgerald was an American jazz singer, and has been referred to as the Queen of Jazz, the First Lady of Song, or Lady Ella. Ella is noted for here purity of tone, impeccable diction, phrasing, intonation, and for having a “horn-like” impovisational ability to her singing. One review I found of the album said this…”Rich, mellow sound, ear-pleasing arrangements, and of course Ella Fitzgeralds good cheer make this a Christmas season winner your sure to play often at least until the 25th of December and perhaps beyond. I can definitely agree, after doing a listen through its a pleasant album to listen to…and kinda makes me want to get a copy of this on vinyl…because Christmas music just sounds better on vinyl. But the cover…..O the cover….where do I begin. I will again give the same disclaimer that I gave on the first album, it’s not terrible as an art piece. It’s a lil wierd, but definitely not terrible. But as a Christmas album cover….I don’t it just have those Christmas feels. The main part of the cover is this painting of a unicorn with its head popping up out of what looks like long HUGE blades of grass, with a flower in its mouth. The unicorn is in this modern painting style that is….interesting. the way they textured the body in the painting almost makes it look like its got a lot of eyes all over its body….The color on the unicorn is these yellow and orange shades with the lines outlining the imagery being purplish in color. The font usage is also kind of interesting because at the top it has “Ella wishes you” in pretty traditional handwritten font, but the rest of the album title is wrapped around the head of our unicorn in a very hand drawn font in a light purple color. My one kind of complaint with the hand drawn font is that the G’s kind of look like 9’s….especially the one a the end of swinging. Also how they had to stack Christmas because they ran out of room isn’t ideal either in my opinion. I did find one forum of people discussing this album, and it seems that initially the album was supposed to have a track called “Rudolph the Psychedelic Unicorn” or possibly a song called “Unicorn Song”. I can’t validate the claims…but may be the best explanation of why there’s a unicorn on the front of this album. I also saw some people talking on another forum about Ella’s manager and label co-owner Norman Granz, and had this to say about him “Verve’s label owner Norman Granz is likely to have been responsible for the choice of this album’s artwork. His admiration for modern and abstract art is evident in the artwork of other Verve albums, and possibly on this album, too. Along with the man’s own tastes, a PR strategy could have been behind the selection of the album's so-called wild modern design.” It sounds like he was trying to use modern art in album covers to make them kool, because the pr messaging at the time was basically “that albums such as this one were cool, exciting, “in tune with the times,” not old-fashioned. I'm assuming that the album cover may not have been Ella's first choice, and she possibly had no choice, but I would love to hear your thoughts of this album cover...? Let me know below. Have a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!!

Join us as we look back at some of our favorite album covers, physical packaging, music and more from 2023! Welcome to the first Judged by the Cover of 2024!! With a new year come big changes, so everyone give a warm welcome to our new co-host Phil Hyland! Phil has been on the show before as a guest, and he brings a totally different music perspective and energy to the show that I'm really excited about. To kick off this new season, I thought it would be fun to look at some of our favorite album covers, physical packaging, and music from 2023. This could be albums that dropped in 2023, or stuff that we discovered this year. We talk everything form cover art to books and autobiographies, so make sure you check it out using the player above, or on any of your favorite podcasting apps. Below you find the images and links to the items we talked about on the podcast Album Cover of the Year Grandville - This self titled debut album by the band Grandville was Josh's #1 album cover of the year. I loved all the detail in the image, the interior of the car specifically, and the overall design and mood of this cover. It also helps that the album it self rocks!! For a group of young guys from Athens GA, this album sure packs great song writing and sweet guitar tones to go along with the amazing cover art. Check it out using the links below. www.grandvillemusic.com There's a really cool in process video of the creation of this album cover, use the link below to view it on instagram. https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtH4KS9Pys-/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Music Video for the song Terrible Things Phils 2023 Discovery Willy Tea Taylor - Knuckellball Prime Phil had the opportunity to see Willy Tea Taylor in Chattanooga, opening up for an artist at Songbirds. Phil fell in love with the raw and authentic nature to Willy Tea Taylor's music. Check out Phils favorite album out below, and make sure to listen to the song Chickamauga! https://blackwingmusic.com/about-willy-tea-taylor/ Physical Packaging of the Year Jelly Roll - Whitsitt Chapel - The Hymnal Just look at this thing!!! You just don't see new music being released in a format like this. The world of music has become so digital with Spotify and Apple music being our first gateways to new music. If you have one of these that you want to send to my please let me know! Use the link below to view all the promo material, for this album Whitsitt Chapel and let us know if you find it as cool as we do. https://tensiondivision.com/project/jelly-roll-whitsitt-chapel Favorite cover art discussed on season 1 of the Judged by the Cover Podcast Phils Pick Chicago 10 https://www.jwcreates.com/post/judged-by-the-cover-chicago Josh Pick Linkin Park Meteora https://www.jwcreates.com/post/judged-by-the-cover-meteora-ep-4 There's way more that we talked about on the podcast that I just ran out of time to list. What was your favorite album cover that we talked about on season 1 of the Judged by the Cover podcast...? Let us know in the comments below.

Go on a journey with us as we discover an amazingly fun album and band by doing some curiosity buying solely based on the cover art! (Audio Only) (Video) Coming Home - The Dangerous Summer What happens when you buy and listen to an album based solely on the cover art...? Sometimes you find gold, and thats exactly what we ended up with for this episode of the Judged by the Cover podcast!! Check out the physical packaging for this album below There won't be a full transcript for this episode, but I would love it if you checked out the full video on Youtube using the player above or by searching for the Judged by the Cover podcast. Also if you wouldn't mind liking and subscribing to help grow the reach of the video and audio podcasts. The audio only version will be wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. The Dangerous Summer Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thedangeroussummer?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Website - https://thedangeroussummer.us Daniel Rattner - Cover Art design and Layout Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wavvvydan/

Unfortunately this is not an episode on your favorite Nickelback album, but we are looking at photographs on album covers. Join Josh & Phil as we talk about some of the best practices, and things to think about when using a photo on your album cover. Audio Only Video For Those That Wish To Exist - The Architects This album cover for Those That Wish To Exist, was on of those that stopped me in my tracks and made me ask what is this!?!?!? I (Josh) was drawn in by the dark moody textures of this image, and had to know - What is this astronaut doing in this old church....? To me this is what a creative use of a photo for an album cover should do...Make me ask why, make me go and download the album, and dive into the music. Near Miss Sorry country music, but you are a repeat offender for album covers that have photos that look like bad high school senior photos. Below will be four album covers that we discuss during Josh's rant. Larry Fleet - Stack of Records The album cover for Stack of Records is a great use of a photo as an album cover. We still have the artist (Larry Fleet) as the main focal point, playing his guitar but then we get to see this amazing room full of vinyl records. There are more albums that make appearances in this episode, but you will have to check out the video version to catch them all!! There won't be a full transcript for this episode, but I would love it if you checked out the full video on Youtube using the player above or by searching for the Judged by the Cover podcast. Also if you wouldn't mind liking and subscribing to help grow the reach of the video and audio podcasts. The audio only version will be wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

Welcome back to the "Judged by the Cover" podcast. Today Phil and I are diving into one of the most iconic album covers of all time—Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon." This episode is a special one, as we've been teasing it since the second episode of our podcast. So, let's get into it! The Power of Album Art We've all heard the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover," but let's be real—album covers can make or break the decision to buy an album. A great album cover is more than just a pretty picture; it's a visual representation of the music and the artist's vision. In this episode, we explore why having a personal designer for your album artwork is crucial, and there's no better example than "Dark Side of the Moon." Released in 1973, "Dark Side of the Moon" features a simple yet powerful design: a prism with light entering from one side and a spectrum of colors emerging from the other, all set against a black background. This imagery is so iconic that even if you've never heard the album, you've likely seen the cover. The design was created by the legendary design group Hipgnosis, who were known for their surreal and art-driven album covers. When Pink Floyd approached Hipgnosis, they had one request: keep it simple. The band wanted something classy and straightforward, a departure from the psychedelic and complex designs Hipgnosis was known for. The result was a cover that perfectly encapsulates the band's music—simple yet profound. The Music Behind the Cover "Dark Side of the Moon" is not just an album; it's an experience. The soundscape is rich and complex, featuring everything from heartbeats to the sound of coins and cash registers. The album explores themes of mental health, greed, and the human condition, making it a timeless piece of art. Songs like "Us and Them" and "Money" delve into these themes with a depth that was groundbreaking for its time. Trusting Your Designer One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of trusting your designer. Pink Floyd had a long-standing relationship with Hipgnosis, and they trusted them to bring their vision to life. This trust allowed Hipgnosis to create a cover that not only represented the music but also became an iconic piece of pop culture. Even today, the "Dark Side of the Moon" cover is instantly recognizable. It's a testament to the power of great design and its ability to transcend time. Whether you're a musician, a designer, or just a fan of great music, there's a lot to learn from this iconic album cover. Final Thoughts If you're an artist or a band looking to create an album cover, remember that simplicity can be incredibly powerful. Find a designer you connect with, trust their vision, and don't be afraid to let go of the reins a little. The result could be something as timeless and iconic as "Dark Side of the Moon." Thank you for joining us on this journey through one of the most iconic album covers of all time. If you have any thoughts or comments, feel free to drop us an email at info@jwcreates.com or leave a comment on our blog. You can also hit us up on social media @jdubcreates.

Welcome back to the Judge by the Cover podcast! In this special episode, host Josh and co-host Phil take us on a fascinating journey through the world of album cover art. Joined by a diverse panel of guests, including music producer Brent, podcaster Iggy, artist Finding Zero, and band members Sydney and Braden from In the Company of Wolves, the episode dives into the visual elements that make album covers memorable and impactful. The panelists are presented with 4 different album covers, each with its unique story and artistic elements. They rate the covers on a scale of one to ten and discuss their thoughts on the design, genre, and potential music style. Audio Only Watch on YouTube Below are the bios & links to the guests on our pro panel. I would love it if you went and checked out their work, music, videos and links below and please give them all a follow on social media. Brent Crowe Brent has spent most of the past decade as a music producer, audio engineer, and owner of BackBeat Sound Design, a recording studio in Chattanooga. In 2023, the studio shifted from being a primary occupation to more of a hobby in order to focus more on family. Brent lives with his wife Liz and daughter Ruby and currently serves as the Operations Director at C4 Church in Hixson. His hobbies include music, disc golf, video games, and spending time with his family. Follow & Support Website - www.backbeatsound.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/backbeatsound/ Iggy Iggy is a local podcaster birthed from hip hop learning to have conversations in Chattanooga to build toward unity. Follow & Support Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@IggysLoudmouthPodcast Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/7q8YaMoCImAyUjwhDKLK2W?si=wXWsrCTZSI6qDdjcsJwv_g&utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree&nd=1&dlsi=2e11d28c956948f4 Finding Zero Finding Zero is a 21 year artist/musician from Chattanooga Tn, that has been making music since March of 2021. He has a new album that dropped this year called NoMoreSub, and a music video for the single Come Find Me. Links to both will be below. Follow & Support Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/album/nomoresub/1731429074 Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hu6v4EJGSLA Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/findingzero_/ In The Company of Wolves This singer/songwriter duo, originally from Portland, Maine, now call Chattanooga, Tennessee home. They intertwine their love for music with a passion for story-telling, as they combine thought provoking lyrics with layered melodies. Inspired by some of their favorite musical influences, including Novo Amor, Bon Iver, and Mumford and Sons, Sydney and Brayden use their unique sound, both vocally and instrumentally (think Glen Hansard meets Phoebe Bridgers), to share their passion for community and their commitment to making sure youth, especially those struggling with their mental health, feel seen, heard, and loved.  Follow & Support Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2FVDpZvMdWcowmQk8HyS1f?si=zo9Wv4tcRt-VYKhlNU_HXg Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthecompanyofwolvesindie/ Patreon - http://patreon.com/IntheCompanyofWolves If you want to see more episodes like this and want to suggest someone to be on our next panel, drop names and or social media links in the form or comments below.

The guys are back!  After a few months away, Judged by the Cover  returns with more deep dives into the fascinating world of album art and music discovery. In this episode, we explore Crashing Dream  by Rain Parade, a lesser-known band that holds a special place in Phil's heart. While the music hits all the right notes for Phil, the cover art falls a lil flat. Join us as Josh critiques the artwork and shares his vision for elevating it to better match the album’s voice. Don’t miss out—stay tuned until the end to see the reimagined cover art! Audio Only Video Introduction: Welcome back to Judged by the Cover ! It’s been a whirlwind summer for hosts Josh and Phil, but they’re back, ready to dive into the world of music and album art. With fall in the air, it’s the perfect season to sit down, talk trends, and rediscover some overlooked albums that deserve attention. Post Malone’s Country Crossover: A Surprising Success The episode kicks off with a look at one of 2024’s hottest trends: cross-genre experimentation, with none other than Post Malone making waves in country music. Known initially for his hip-hop roots and genre-bending style, Malone’s country album, titled F1 Trillion  (alongside a “Long Bed Edition”), has created buzz. The hosts share their thoughts on this project, which includes collaborations with legends like Dolly Parton, Tim McGraw, and Hank Williams Jr. Phil admits he’s not a typical country fan but feels compelled to check it out. He appreciates Post’s journey from a rebellious past to a dedicated artist who’s now a family man, noting his sober lifestyle and transformation. Both hosts respect Malone’s decision to go “all in” on a pure country sound. Whether you’re a country fan or not, Josh and Phil agree that the album is worth a listen if only to witness Post’s homage to Nashville and classic country. Crashing Dream by Rain Parade: An Undiscovered Gem The episode’s central focus, however, is an album that Phil recommended: Crashing Dream  by Rain Parade. As an obscure entry into the alternative music world, this album surprised Josh, who hadn’t encountered it before. While they’ve only just introduced the album, the excitement to dissect its cover art and musical aesthetic is evident. Rain Parade, a staple of the Paisley Underground movement, promises a nostalgic trip through dreamy, layered sounds that listeners may find refreshing in today’s music scene. During the episode the guys discuss what JW would do if he was to design or recreate the cover art for the album Crashing Dream. Below you can see the original and JW's version. Original JW's Version Which do you like better...? Let us know in the comments below

Christmas music holds a special place in the hearts of so many. For an artist, releasing a Christmas album comes with its own unique pressures—but it can also become a defining moment, etching their music into the memories of the holiday season. Audio Only Video In this festive episode of  Judged by the Cover , we’re diving into a few  unexpected Christmas albums —the ones you didn’t see coming! Some are from artists you might not know ventured into holiday tunes, while others represent genres not typically associated with Christmas cheer. Get ready for a fun and surprising discussion as we unwrap these musical gems. So grab your hot cocoa, pull up your favorite Santa blanket, and cozy up by the fire—it’s time to enjoy the holiday spirit with us. CeeLo's Magic Moment Josh kicked things off by introducing an album that’s as visually striking as it is musically captivating: CeeLo’s Magic Moment  (2012). This album cover alone is a spectacle, featuring CeeLo as a flamboyant Santa Claus in a pink fur coat, riding in a convertible Bentley pulled by white horses, while a reindeer dons a black tie suit. Beyond the eye-catching artwork, the album offers a traditional take on holiday classics, infused with CeeLo’s soulful style. Highlights include collaborations with Christina Aguilera and the Muppets. As Josh noted, it’s also the first solo CeeLo Green album without a parental advisory sticker—a fun fact that perfectly encapsulates the holiday spirit. Phil couldn’t help but express his admiration for the design and its ability to capture the whimsical nature of the season. The conversation set the tone for a journey through unconventional holiday cheer. Christmas with Weezer Next up was Weezer’s Christmas EP  (2008), introduced by Josh as an album with an innovative backstory. Originally created as part of the iOS app Tap Tap Revenge , the EP became so popular among fans that it was eventually released as a standalone project. The cover art—originally an app icon—reflects Weezer’s playful and slightly punk-inspired aesthetic. Phil appreciated the band’s unique approach to holiday music, blending their signature sound with festive themes. The duo reminisced about Weezer’s history and their ability to surprise listeners with unexpected projects. Weezer Christmas CD/EP Winter Weezerland Punk Rock Christmas Finally, Phil brought up a personal favorite: Punk Rock Christmas , a compilation featuring iconic artists like Iggy Pop and Smash Mouth. The album’s cover, predictably adorned with a skull, oozes punk rock energy even in the context of Christmas. Phil shared a nostalgic story about his brother’s mohawk, tying the rebellious spirit of punk rock to the holiday season. Josh and Phil agreed that the album’s audacious take on festive music perfectly encapsulates the genre’s ethos, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to break free from traditional holiday playlists. From the soulful charm of CeeLo Green to the playful innovation of Weezer and the rebellious energy of punk rock, these albums prove that Christmas music can be as diverse and unexpected as the season itself. Whether you’re decking the halls or rocking around the Christmas tree, these unconventional picks are sure to bring something special to your holiday celebrations. Do you have any other favorite unexpected Christmas albums...? Let us know in the comments below!

On this episode of Judged by the Cover podcast, Josh and Phil take a deep dive into the standout album covers, physical packaging, and unforgettable music of 2024. Before we jump into our favorites from 2024, let's set the stage. 2024 was a big year for music, with 24 albums reaching the coveted #1 spot on the Billboard 200. Taylor Swift's "The Tortured Poets Department" dominated charts for an impressive 17 weeks, breaking records and solidifying her reign as pop royalty. But it wasn't just about the charts. 2024 saw the resurgence of 90s and 2000s rock giants, proving that nostalgia is a powerful force in the music industry. From Creed's unexpected reunion tour to Linkin Park's triumphant return, legacy artists found new life and eager audiences. Best Album Covers of 2024: A Visual Journey Linkin Park - "From Zero" The standout album cover of 2024 belongs to Linkin Park's "From Zero." This cover isn't just visually striking—it's a testament to the band's evolution and rebirth. The vibrant pinks against dark hues create a captivating contrast, drawing the eye and sparking curiosity. What makes this cover truly special is the story behind it. It's not a painting or digital creation, but a photograph—one that encapsulates the band's journey and new direction. This cover proves that sometimes, the most powerful images are rooted in reality, not fantasy. Logan Crosby - "2019" Country newcomer Logan Crosby made waves with his debut album "2019." The cover features a striking portrait of Crosby, but it's the clever addition at the bottom that sets it apart: "Surgeon General Warning: Listening to Logan Crosby can significantly alter your mood, resulting in feelings of joy, sadness, and nostalgia. If you hate good music, be advised." This playful touch not only showcases Crosby's personality but also creates an instant connection with potential listeners. It's a masterclass in using humor to make a memorable first impression. The Power of Physical Packaging In an era dominated by digital streaming, you might think physical albums are a thing of the past. Think again. The resurgence of vinyl and the desire for tangible music experiences have breathed new life into album packaging. Jimmy Fallon - Holiday Seasoning Jimmy Fallon's "Holiday Seasoning" takes the cake for innovative packaging in 2024. Picture this: you open the vinyl sleeve, and a pop-up Christmas scene emerges, complete with a tree, presents, and Jimmy himself. It's not just an album—it's an experience, a conversation starter, and a collectible all in one. Teni Rane - Goldenrod This trend towards elaborate packaging isn't limited to major stars. Independent artists like Teni Rane are embracing the power of physical media, releasing numbered vinyl editions that feel special and personal. Why You Need a Personal Designer for Your Album Artwork After exploring these standout examples, it's clear that album artwork is more than just a pretty picture—it's a crucial part of an artist's identity and marketing strategy. Here's why investing in a personal designer is worth every penny: 1. First Impressions Matter: In a crowded music landscape, your album cover might be the first (and sometimes only) chance to grab a potential listener's attention. 2. Tell Your Story: Great album art doesn't just look good—it communicates your music's essence, your artistic vision, and your brand identity. 3. Create Collector's Items: Thoughtful, high-quality packaging can turn your album into a must-have item for fans, potentially boosting sales and engagement. 4. Stand Out in the Digital Space: Even in the world of tiny streaming thumbnails, distinctive artwork can help your music pop in playlists and search results. 5. Build a Cohesive Brand: Working with a personal designer allows you to create a consistent visual language across all your promotional materials, from album covers to merch designs. What We Learned About Music and Design in 2024 As we look back on the visual trends of 2024, a few key lessons emerge: • Nostalgia sells, but it needs a fresh twist to truly resonate. • Physical media isn't dead—it's evolving into an art form of its own. • Personality and humor can be powerful tools in album design. • Great artwork can bridge the gap between different generations of music fans. Whether you're an established artist or just starting out, remember: your music deserves visuals that are just as thoughtful and impactful as the sounds you create. Don't underestimate the power of a great album cover—it might just be the key to unlocking your next level of success. Ready to elevate your music's visual identity? Let's work together to bring your sonic vision to life through stunning album artwork. Visit jwcreates.com to explore my portfolio and start crafting the perfect visual representation of your music.

Ever wondered how a simple black square became one of rock's most iconic album covers? In the latest episode of the Judged by the Cover podcast, hosts Josh and Phil dive into the iconic "Back in Black" by AC/DC. Back in Black isn't just a masterclass in hard rock – it's a testament to the power of visual branding in music. This is part one of our two-part series, where we'll later connect the dots to Linkin Park's "From Zero." The Legacy of "Back in Black" In 1980, AC/DC faced a pivotal moment. The tragic passing of lead singer Bon Scott left the band at a crossroads. With the blessing of Scott's mother, they decided to continue, bringing in Brian Johnson as the new frontman. The result was "Back in Black," an album that not only paid homage to Scott but also redefined the band's sound and solidified their place in rock history. The album, recorded in just two months at Compass Point Studios in the Bahamas, showcases AC/DC's raw talent and dedication. Produced by Mutt Lang, known for his work with Def Leppard and Shania Twain, the album is a sonic masterpiece. Its iconic black cover, with a simple silver outline around the band's name, is a nod to mourning and a testament to the band's straightforward rock ethos. Josh and Phil discuss the album's impact, noting how it became a benchmark for sound quality in studios and live venues. They also touch on the collaborative nature of the album's creation, with contributions from various band members and even the studio engineer. Simplicity in Design Initially, AC/DC wanted a completely black cover as a tribute to Scott. The record label insisted on adding a silver outline to the band's logo for visibility. This compromise resulted in one of the most iconic album covers ever, proving that simplicity can be powerful. Takeaways from the Design of Back in Black: 1. Simplicity is Powerful:  The minimalist design of "Back in Black" with its black cover and silver outline is iconic and memorable. 2. Symbolism Matters:  The black cover serves as a tribute to Bon Scott, adding depth and meaning to the album's presentation. 3. Branding is Key:  The AC/DC logo is a strong visual element that reinforces the band's identity. 4. Professional Design Counts:  Investing in quality design can elevate an album's appeal and help it stand out in a crowded market. 5. Consistency in Style:  The album's design reflects AC/DC's straightforward rock style, aligning the visual with the musical content. As we wrap up part one of our series, we invite you to listen to "Back in Black" and experience its timeless appeal. Stay tuned for part two, where we'll explore Linkin Park's From Zero and uncover the surprising connections between these two iconic albums.

In this episode of the Judged by the Cover podcast, Josh and Phil delve into the resilience and transformation embodied in Linkin Park's "From Zero." Following the tragic loss of Chester Bennington, the band faced the daunting task of redefining their sound and identity. With the introduction of Emily Armstrong, Linkin Park embraced change, exploring new musical elements while staying true to their core essence. "From Zero" marks a pivotal moment in the band's journey, highlighting their enduring influence and ability to inspire fans and artists across generations. The Power of Starting Over "From Zero" is more than just a catchy title - it represents Linkin Park's courageous decision to rebuild after the tragic loss of Chester Bennington. Many fans (myself included) wondered if the band could ever recapture their magic without Chester's iconic vocals. But by embracing a fresh start, Linkin Park has crafted something truly special. The album cover art creation mirrors its name. The band experimented with water, chemicals, paint and light to create the striking album artwork - a perfect visual metaphor for their musical rebirth. As Mike Shinoda explained, the cover image captures a fleeting, unrepeatable moment - just like the band's journey of rediscovery. A New Voice Emerges Enter Emily Armstrong, Linkin Park's new lead vocalist. Her addition to the band was anything but a sure thing. As Mike Shinoda revealed, they tried out many singers but nothing felt right until Emily's voice graced a Linkin Park track. Her powerful vocals and rock 'n' roll energy have injected new life into the band's sound. What's truly impressive is how Emily has made these songs her own while still honoring Chester's legacy. She didn't try to imitate him, but instead found her own way to connect with the music. It's a delicate balance, but one that Emily has nailed. Breaking Records and Boundaries "From Zero" isn't just a creative triumph - it's a commercial juggernaut. Consider these mind-blowing stats: • Debuted at #1 in 12 countries • All 10 tracks simultaneously charted on Billboard's Hard Rock Top 10 • 58 million Spotify followers and counting Key takeaways about the album design: 1. Organic shapes created through a unique process involving paint, water, and chemicals 2. Vibrant pink and black color scheme 3. Captured a specific moment in time, impossible to recreate exactly 4. Reflects the band's organic approach to music-making 5. Potentially symbolizes skin, wounds, or separation, tying into the album's introspective themes Intriguing Parallels The intriguing parallels between Linkin Park's "From Zero" and AC/DC's "Back in Black," highlighting how both albums represent significant turning points for their respective bands. Each band faced the monumental challenge of losing a lead singer and had to decide whether to continue or disband. AC/DC's "Back in Black" marked a triumphant return with Brian Johnson stepping in after Bon Scott's death, while Linkin Park's "From Zero" introduces Emily Armstrong following Chester Bennington's passing. Both albums showcase the bands' resilience and ability to reinvent themselves while maintaining their core identity. AC/DC stuck to their signature sound, producing a record filled with hard-hitting rock tracks. In contrast, Linkin Park embraced evolution, incorporating diverse musical elements and experimenting with new sounds, a hallmark of their career. The discussion also touches on the impact these albums had on the music industry. "Back in Black" became a defining moment for rock music in the 1980s, while "From Zero" is seen as a potential milestone for Linkin Park, reflecting their ongoing influence and adaptability in the modern music scene. Ultimately, both albums serve as examples of how bands can o vercome adversity and continue to create meaningful music, inspiring fans and artists alike.

Let’s be real: there are plenty of good reasons why artists, bands, and podcasters choose to DIY their cover art. Budgets are tight. You're trying to get your content out into the world quickly. And sometimes, it feels like slapping something together in Canva or Photoshop is “good enough.” I get it. But here’s the thing: your cover art is often your first impression. Whether it's on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Instagram, it’s the first thing people see—and it needs to stop them in their scroll. I’m not here to say you shouldn’t   DIY your cover art, but here are some quick fixes to elevate your artwork. Let’s dive into three of the most common missteps I see (and how to fix them). 1. Poor Typography Choices What Goes Wrong: Fonts that are hard to read Styles that clash with your genre or vibe Harsh colors that don’t complement the rest of the design One of the most obvious signs of a DIY cover is poor typography. Maybe it's an overly decorative font that looks more like a wedding invite than a metal album (I’ve seen it). Or maybe the text color gets lost in the background, making your title impossible to read at thumbnail size. How to Fix It: Study what's working.  Look at cover art from others in your genre. What fonts are common? Are they bold, minimal, handwritten, sharp? Start recognizing patterns. Match the mood.  Ask yourself, “Does this font feel like my music/podcast?” If your song is raw and edgy, your typography should reflect that same energy. Keep legibility in mind.  If someone can’t read your title at a glance, they’ll scroll right past it. Color Theory can be your best friend. Knowing how colors compliment and react with each other plays a huge role in readability. 2. Overcrowding the Design What Goes Wrong: Trying to include everything  (song title, artist name, logo, graphics, tagline... etc.) No visual hierarchy—everything is fighting for attention When you're designing your own cover, it’s easy to want to cram in every piece of information. But great design often comes down to what you leave out . Think about Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon . No title. No artist name. Just one unforgettable graphic—and it’s become one of the most iconic album covers of all time. How to Fix It: Embrace white space.  Don’t feel like you need to fill every inch of the design. Ask, “What can I remove?”  How many elements can you take away and still tell the same story? Be strategic with what you include.  If you have a long song name, consider leaving it off the cover entirely and let the visuals speak for themselves. The goal is clarity and cohesion—not a visual to-do list. 3. Stock or Generic Photography What Goes Wrong: Using cliché stock images that lack originality Choosing photos that don’t match the vibe or story of the song/episode There’s nothing wrong with using stock photography—if you know how to use it well . The problem is when it feels generic, overused, or disconnected from your message. A quick search on stock photo sites will turn up the same few dozen crowd or sunset photos used over and over again. How to Fix It: Hire a photographer.  Custom imagery makes a world of difference. Even a simple photo shoot with your phone and good lighting can feel more personal than a stock image. Edit and customize.  If you do  use stock photos, don’t just drop them in as-is. Crop them. Layer textures. Add color overlays. Make them your own. Be intentional.  Ask yourself, “Does this image actually reflect the story I’m telling?” If the answer is no, don’t use it. The Ultimate Fix? Hire a Professional. DIY design can be a great starting point—but at the end of the day, a professional designer ( like me 👋) brings a trained eye and creative strategy to your project. I think deeply about things like composition, branding, audience appeal, and platform requirements—so you don’t have to. If you’re ready to move beyond DIY and invest in cover art that tells your story, grabs attention, and represents your work with the quality it deserves, I’d love to help. Let’s create something you’re proud to put your name on.