IN the good old days when people actually bought physical music we were treated to some of the finest designs by some of the most eminent artists known to man.
But while we have lost the joys of a double gatefold there are still some fantastic modern gems.
Have a look below, both old and new, to see how many you recognise?
Results
Well done you. Get yourself down Abbey Road for a swift half!
Oh dear, you have failed to hit the wuthering heights required.
#1. Which album is this?
It’s Oasis (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? of course.
The picture was taken on on Berwick Street in London. The two men are London DJ Sean Rowley and album sleeve designer Brian Cannon. The album’s producer Owen Morris can be seen in the background holding the album’s master tape in front of his face.
#2. Which album is this?
Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon
The cover art’s meaning has sparked diverse interpretations among fans. Some view it as a metaphorical representation of personal and psychological darkness, delving into the depths of the human experience.
Others believe that the prominent prism in the artwork symbolises intellectual thought and ambitious pursuits, evoking a sense of intellectual exploration.
#3. Which album is this?
Nirvana – Nevermind
Kurt Cobain came up with the album cover idea and he originally wanted to use a real water birth, but his management unsurprisingly weren’t too keen on.
In the end they found four month old Spencer Elden and his parents were paid around £150 for the shoot. Fast-forward 30 years and Elden attempted to sue the band alleging sexual exploitation but this failed in early 2022.
#4. Which album is this?
Prodigy – The Fat of the Land
The Fat of the Land was the fastest selling dance album in the UK, it sold a whopping record 317,000 copies in its first week. In the USA it sold more than 200,000 in its first week.
#5. Which album is this?
The Clash – London Calling
The album was designed as a pastiche, imitating that of another piece of artwork namely the king of Rock and Roll, Elvis himself.
#6. Which album is this?
Fatboy Slim – You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby
The image on the album cover was originally taken at the 1983 Fat Peoples Festival in Danville, Virginia. For the North American release, the album cover was changed to an image of shelves stacked with records (below).
The chap to this day remains unknown despite Fatboy Slim looking for him
“Well, you know what? We still haven’t ever found the fat kid from the cover of You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby. He’s still never identified himself, despite me putting out appeals. I would actually like to give him some money!” – Fatboy Slim.
#7. Which album is this?
Foo Fighters – Foo Fighters
The album cover featured a a Buck Rogers XZ-38 Disintegrator Pistol but this wasn’t the only thing space aged about the Foo’s. Their name originated from what World War Two pilots would call UFOs and further to this they published their music on an imprint called Roswell Records.
#8. Which album is this?
It’s the The Velvet Underground & Nico!
Early versions of the album enticed owners with an invitation to ‘Peel slowly and see.’ As they peeled back the skin, a banana was unveiled underneath. The production of these unique covers required a special machine, causing a delay in the album’s release. Nevertheless, MGM covered the manufacturing costs, recognising that any association with Warhol would likely enhance the album’s sales. This idea was ditched in later re-releases.
Interestingly, all of the answer choices in this question had their artwork sleeve designed by Andy Warhol.
#9. Which album is this?
It’s Major Lazer – Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do
The album’s artistic direction was masterfully crafted by Ferry Gouw, a talented London-based illustrator, graphic designer, and art director. Throughout Major Lazer’s career, Ferry has taken charge of every design element, which gives a great coherence rarely witnessed in music artwork.
