The barcode is discreetly to the bottom right, out of the way and fairly

unnoticeable. However it is still at the front and perfectly placed for being

convenient to scan. This is in one of the most fallow areas for drawing the eye

and so inconspicuous at a glance.

The pose that Rihanna is taking in this shot is quite unusual and bold. She isn’t just straight on to the camera and has quite a moody expression. I like this image as although rather simple is

striking and bold. The image also fills the majority of the cover basically edge

to edge, which I feel works well as it minimises blank spaces and forces the picture to be in your face. The colours

chosen for the model and general cover are also that of about three primary colours of pink blue and black. The

connotation for this photo are edgy, moody, rebel and possibly slightly

eccentric. Depicting Rihanna in this manner will attract readers who are

looking for modern and new music they will be expecting something edgy and funky and also a feature that is possibly

a little out there and outrageous.

The details of the main features in the issue of this magazine is down to the

bottom left and in quite a fallow area as far as eye line. However this is ideal in

not detracting or covering the main image whilst still being clear to read and advertising the contents. These

taglines and heading also intrigue the reader to buy the magazine especially if

they are not particularly fans of Rihanna as these may tempt them to

purchase or read on regardless. So this extra information promotes the magazine to a larger audience.

The Title of NME is not central to page unlike most other magazines, however it still remains at the top of the page and in the strongest area for drawing

peoples eye line to it. NME also change the colour of the font for their title

every week to tie in with the specific features of that issue, and in this case

pink has been chosen to exaggerate the bold and feminine style of Rihanna. The

pink also sets a colour theme which compliments the style and layout of the

cover, and creates the mood for the main feature. NME stands for new

musical express, however the choice of just calling it NME is far more catchy and striking. However from the title

alone it is difficult to guess at the genre of the magazine unless you are already

aware, and so underneath the full name is presented.

I like this cover as it is bold edgy and fairly minimalist. It is advertised at the top of the page that this is in fact one of

a series of special issues and so people maybe more inclined to purchase for this reason alone, people whom

may not usually buy the magazine or just occasionally.

The main heading for this issue is of the artist for the main feature and is central to the cover in a prime spot to be seen. It stands out boldly against the black with the neon pink writing and is only short, stating her name but affective. There is also only one main title used. Underneath the main heading there is also a quote taken form the feature article. By including this it offers the reader a

little snippet of the contents and will hopefully make them intrigued enough to continue on to purchase the magazine.

The title of Rolling Stone is central and at the top of the cover of this magazine in a very generic way. However the actual lettering is partially covered by the main image, this expresses the importance of Lady Gaga as she isn’t being detracted from or obstructed at all, she is in the foreground. It also expresses that the magazine is well enough known that people still recognise the name without

seeing whole thing. The chosen font for the tile is rather old school America, which represents its rock and roll theme. The choice of red is also bold and contrasts well with the pale background.

The photo for this cover, of lady Gaga, is rather simple and understated, with

pale colours and a basic mid-shot. Even Gaga’s facial expression is rather plain

and relaxed. I think the simpleness expresses Lady Gaga’s impact on the

magazine herself, as nothing dramatic is required for her to be recognised. This photo also fits with the theme of the

cover, being muted and clean. The colour scheme of pastels also blends with her pale hair and skin. There is something striking about this photo

(with her piercing gaze and dramatically pale skin) which I would like to capture in my own cover. However perhaps in a more unusual and vivid way. The image

covers the majority of the page grabbing interest. Gaga’s appearance is

also in keeping with the rock and roll theme with her red lipstick and black

bra.

What I like about this cover is the almost vintage look with faded pastel shades and the fairly minimalist appearance, with the use of primarily black writing on a pale background it almost reminds me of a newspaper feel. This magazine is quite unique in many respects as nowadays

magazines tend to use far more vibrant and loud colours. However this colour scheme is ideal for the ‘vintage’ look which is appropriate to rock and roll, as this too is rather old fashioned.

The writing on the cover is all in one column on the left hand side of the

page, with the main feature only written slightly bigger then the title for the other contents. The writing is off to the side in this ways so it doesn’t cover the main image at all keeping it looking bare and bold. The font is written in red

and black which follows the main colour scheme and is in keeping with the title. All the writing is also in the

same font maintaining continuity.The features of the magazine are

separated with a thick black line and remain clear whilst still minimalist. They are a secondary feature to the

cover photo and most important aspect. This list of the magazines

contents is ideal for enticing the reader with, as if they’re not fans of Lady Gaga

they can stile be lured to read on. The main strap line for this cover

‘Monster Goddess’ is ideal for intriguing the reader. As it is clear to

fans that it relates to Lady gaga, whilst also hinting at the context of this

feature.

The secondary titles of this magazine are actually just as bold as the main title of ‘Coldplay’ and seem to be of equal importance. Although the eye is still drawn primarily to the

Coldplay title because of its positioning and the other writing

just provides a busyness to the page. The tag line of artists featured in the

issue are along the bottom of the page which I think almost acts like a

border and extra snippets of information.

The choose of position for the model of this issue is very interesting and

unusual as it is the use of a long shot and with Chris balancing is a

complex position. The background of the image is also very unusual as it appears to be almost like graffiti

and is incredibly dark and busy. Even so Chris is highlighted and clear

against the back drop which is very important to catch the readers eye to who he is. However the fact that he is turned away and looking down minimises the chances of him being recognised when people glance at

the magazine maybe doesn’t promote the feature of him in this

issue.

The main heading for this feature is not central to the page but off to

one side and slanted. Although it is positioned in this way it still stands proud of the background and very

clear as it contrasts well with the use of white plain writing on the dark busy background. The font type

looks like it has been draw on with a pen or almost graffiti-ish which

reflects the cool and casual attitude of the feature band.

The Title of Q is not central to page unlike most other magazines, however it still remains at the top of the page and in the strongest area for drawing

peoples eye line to it. Q’s bold one letter title also stands out strong

against other magazines as the clear and striking logo is easily identified and clear to notice. However Q chooses to keep the colour of its logo the same

each week which helps with continuity however limits chose of colour scheme which otherwise could be more varied. By keeping it the same it will become more familiar to the general market.

The title ‘Q’ itself is a little obscure and doesn’t immediately express that it is in

fact a music magazine, however through its popularity and use of

tagline (DISCOVER GREAT MUSIC) below it is apparent to most people.

I like this cover as it is actually quite busy and vibrant which would stand out on the shelf against plainer

covers. Although the eye tends to be drawn away from some of the main information which could detract

from the key features.

The barcode is discreetly to the bottom left, This is in one of the most fallow areas for drawing the eye and

so inconspicuous at a glance, out of the way and fairly unnoticeable. However it is still at the front and perfectly placed for being convenient to scan.

At the bottom of the page is an added red arrow which is telling us to turn to

a particular page for the ‘No.1 Gig Guide’ The use of the term no.1 is

there to make it seem the very best and ultimate so more exciting. By

placing it in a arrow it will also subconsciously hint t to the reader to turn over and notice further pages.

This emphasised piece also draws the readers attention to this paticular aspect that they may otherwise

overlook.

The main contents of the magazine is clearly laid out in separate sections with bold page numbers making it

quick and easy for the reader to find the page they want. The use of

categories (News, radar, Reviews, Live and Features) also acts as an overview of the general contents allowing the

reader to establish a very general view of what’s to come and directs them to the specific pages they’ll enjoy. The

contents information in this particular magazine is very generic plain and

rather simple. However this is affective in keeping it easy to be read and

understood. Although as it is so very plain it may cause some readers to skip the page and then miss out on

certain features of the magazine or be uninterested.

Central to the cover is a large image which relates to a mini article on the contents. This is clever in holding the

readers attention to the page and encouraging them to then happen to notice the other features. A photo is

also a quicker way of getting information across to the reader and

suggesting to them possible themes or further pages that may make them wish

to buy the magazine.

The title of the contents reuses the main magazine title logo again to maintain continuity through the

magazine and constantly remind the reader which magazine they’re

looking at. This title is very clear and bold which is vital as this whole page

is in the magazine to help the reader navigate and understand the layout. This title also almost appears like the layout of a newspaper with the black and white and this title is like a headline drawing in interest.

To the left of the page is a band index that tells you which bands are on each page. This is handy as it

will appeal to the audience of the magazine who are purchasing because of their interest in music and bands and also advertises the extent of how many

bands are included.

At the bottom of the page is an advert that encourages the reader to subscribe to the magazine. Although the main colour scheme for the page is red and black this advert uses

bright yellow for the font, which causes it to stand out and contrast against everything else, drawing the eye. The advert only includes the main aspects of the offer like the price/where to go for further information and so restricts having a chunk of information that would put

the reader off. A photo is also used to add interest and act as a ploy.

At the bottom right of the page is an advert encouraging readers to subscribe to the magazine. This is in a contrasting

red box that stands out against other elements of the page and also has

example photos to act as visual aids to encourage them further. The information of the subscription is minimal so it stays

clear and bold without putting the reader off with loads of writing. There is also a

number so that people who are interested can ring in to subscribe

immediately, without them even having to go to another page, in which time they

may forget or won’t be bothered.

The main image for the cover is of quite a rowdy and exciting looking gig that has

happened and relates to one of the main features. This photo fills half of the

contents page, almost being taken as more important than the information as it draws peoples interest in and gets them

excited about the features inside. The photo is also responsible for setting the

general mood and tone for the rest of the magazine as it portrays the world of music as being bold and outrageous, reflecting the chosen bands and songs within the

magazine and also will draw in the reader who is also interested in this style. By showing the image of a gig it may also encourage the reader to which to book

one which they are able to do through the magazine

To the bottom left of the magazine, in a small place out the way, is a little detail from the editor with his outline of this issue and casual thoughts and opinions

presented in quite a chatty manner. This gives the reader almost a little introduction to the magazine and

hopefully makes them feel in tune with what’s going on and involved on a more

personal level. From reading this a person is also able to establish a feel for

the magazine and are hopefully encouraged from this to buy or read

on.

The main title for this page is simple Contents keeping it plain and simple

with an added follow up title of ‘Kerrang this week’ so people are

clearly informed of the purpose of this page. This is incredibly important as

this page is absolutely crucial in encouraging the reader to continue on

to other pages and be able to easily negotiate the magazine. The choice of the colour yellow and the font chosen is the same as that used on the cover

and for both titles. This maintains continuity through the magazine, sticks to a theme which is more appealing to

the eye and gives the magazine a better sense of identity.

Images featured on the page include those of the double spreads within that actual issue, which are

there to interest the reader and make them intrigued to go and actually check them out. People flicking to the contents before deciding to buy the

magazine may also notice these and be persuaded.

The main information for this page is laid out in clear columns with category headings and bold page numbers. This makes the page functional and user friendly as the reader can easily be directed to the sections they will be most interested in and won’t be put off or

confused by the design. Even though fairly simple in this section it stills remains interesting with added photos of the main features that make the key bits stand out.

At the very bottom of the page and fairly unseen is a quote by Nick Valensi, which acts as a snippet of the main article and

feature. It aims to shock ‘I fart in your direction’ whilst create a sense of

confusion and intrigue in going to this page. The fact this quote is in a white box

causes it to stand out like the title, highlights importance and helps to draw

the eye. It gives the reader an insight into Valensi’s character and introduces him to those that may not recognise him already.

There is only one picture used on the entire contents page and the picture fills and overwhelms the entire page. This draws importance to the person

featured, showing there importance to the issue and addressing this to the

reader. It also keeps the page minimalist which is successful in a maintaining a clean and organised

look. The photo also includes a man wearing dark clothes that also tie in

with the general colour scheme of the magazine which is mainly that of red

white and black. The facial expression of the man is rather stern and hostile

which could be quite off putting to look at. However it symbolises the attitude of this man ‘Nick’ and the tone of the featured article allowing the reader to

gather what to expect.

The main text of the contents is encased in a red box at the top left of the page. The vibrant colour causes it to stand out as the main part of the

page, especially against the dull background. The title of this box is ‘100 greatest albums ever’ emphasising and exaggerating the must se appeal. Then there is just a list of the main features and articles in this issue with relevant

page numbers.

The title for this page is simply ‘contents’ keeping it clear and

obvious. It also incorporates the Q logo into the top left of the page to

remind the reader of what magazine they’re actually reading and keeps continuity through the pages as it

continues through with the red theme. The main heading also

contracts with the rest of the page with the use of the white, making it

more striking and bold. On the heading is also the date of the issue

and issue number.

What I like about this contents is that it isn’t fussy or messy but very minimalist and quite striking with the hard look of Valensi. It acts as almost another cover page with the limited text or other images,

and I think I wouldn’t use this style in my own magazine, however I’d aim to keep it simple.

The bottom half of the contents information is of the general articles that appear in the magazine every week. To express their less importance they are simply against the back

background and lower on the page, and so are far less prominent. Although they still have clearly labelled page numbers and are laid out in a clear manner that aids the reader in

negotiating the magazine easily to find the sections that will appeal most.

At the side of the article is a selection of a few of MCR’s songs from their new album, and some reviews of them. By adding these into the magazine it provides the readers, who are likely to be fans of this band, a

secret snippet into what’s to, come and also informs them if the songs will appeal or not. By incorporating this into the double page spread, it acts as extra advertising for the band, adds contrast to the page against

the main lengthy article with dark background (with the black background.) Whilst also making the information into more than just a simple passage and into the main feature, by having the extra detail.

The main photo for this spread takes up about half the page

and blends in to the background of the text. Images are covering

about three quarters of the entire article. The chosen main

image is of one of the band members on stage with his

microphone looking down. I think the look this image

portrays is that of a rock and punk theme, quite casual and

sets the mood as being that of a chilled and fairly sombre atmosphere. The use of

greyscale across all the images ties them together and doesn’t incorporate too many colours that would interfere with the main colour scheme or make

the magazine look messy. Having just the main colours black white and red also fits

with the punky genre and the greyscale images also gives

them a vintage type ‘old school’ feel. None of the photos feature someone staring directly at the

camera either. Which I think establishes a sense of intrigue

and hidden thoughts and feelings that hopefully the

article will reveal. By keeping the pictures simple it also

encourages the reader to focus on the crucial content of the

information itself.

The tone for the article is actually quite formal and

serious as it is being informative and concise. It includes quotes from

the band members themselves so the reader

establishes insight into details of their life, and

reveal several bits of new information about the bands come back. The

article isn’t actually that long and so doesn’t put

the reader off, by not filling the page. And

further information of the band is also probably

spread out to further pages.

The title for this feature and main page of the magazine is the use of a quote from the interviewed band to absorb people straight in to article. It also doesn’t just simple state what the article includes but is fairly

ambiguous so to encourage the reader to be intrigued to continue on. To the to left of the page there is also a tag line saying ‘WORLD EXCLUSIVE’ this emphasises the excitement and impact of the feature and adds appeal to the magazine as the reader feels they’re learning fresh gossip. The title and tag line are also in keeping with the colour scheme, however the tag line stands out considerably being a bright red square

against the plain black, drawing the eye to the important detail.

The main article for this piece has a very casual and quirky tone. It describes the interview with Florence in quite a lot of detail and in a light hearted and playful way, picking out quotes of the all the funny one liners

she’s made. By compiling the article in this manner it gives the reader a sense that they are reading a behind-the-scenes, exclusive and personal article. This is especially appealing to her fans as they will be excited to hear about Florence as a character, and will also be insightful to those who know very little and will be able

to establish a lot about her maybe become interested. The article isn’t actually that long and takes up a mere quarter of the spread. However this is successful in being able to provide an adequate amount of

information without loosing the readers interest.

The image on this page is the main focus of the feature as it

fills half the spread and is incredibly striking against the

pale background. The pose taken up by Florence is actually

quite suggestive and a little raunchy, with her slightly lifting her leg in her short dress and

high shoes. She is staring directly at the camera with a slight pouting expression, she looks confident and bold. The choice of this pose is possibly expressing a slightly naughty and daring side to her that people may not have seen before. The red and white

striped cover she is sat on fits with the image of sexy and

quite domineering woman. Red is also associated with love, in

keeping with one of the headings, a quote from her

song. The photo seems to set a colour scheme for this page as

being black red and white. With all the true colour coming from the image alone, drawing the

eye. Florence’s hair is even a red shade which also incorporates nicely into the theme and as

one of her signature features it is cleverly emphasised in this

way.

Before the main article itself is a section of

slightly larger font, a bit like an introduction to

the subjects of the piece. This little snippet is

rather ambiguous with the phrase ‘So why is Florence on the floor

attacking herself?’ the purpose of this is to baffle and entice the

reader, as well as causing the reader to take this

image literally and create an image in their mind

that seems odd and enthrals them.

The background text for this piece and one of the main headings is ‘USA’ and although the largest font of the page its in a faded grey, and takes a back seat against the title ‘Got the love’ which is in jet black and central to the right page, in away that draws the eye. The ‘USA’ title is also partly obscured by the image and so isn’t clear to read, implying its secondary importance. It does however give hints as to the content of the article

and adds intrigue, just as does the heading ‘got the love’ as it makes the reader question if its simply quoting her song or if secret info. is given on her love life, making them read on and become truly interested.

The main title of this feature is in the form of the question ‘Will he won’t he?’ Which also invites the reader to speculate on the possible topic and then be intrigued as to the possible details. This is more effective in encouraging the reader to actually read the entire article as it doesn’t simply state what its about, which may cause them to feel they don’t need to bother to read on or may loose their interest before they even bother. The colour of the font fits with the colour of scheme of the page maintaining continuity and the bold choice of font also reflects the

techno outgoings band style. Underneath the main title there is also a summary of the article to give the reader further insight and persuasion still without exposing too much about details of the article. This writing is over the image however in a fallow and fairly unimportant region that

doesn’t detract from the main image.

There is a single image on this double page spread which takes

up two thirds of the feature. The image is of the band ‘The Black Eyed Peas’ and three of the band members are rather

faded into the background however one stands out clearly and bold against the rest. The

poses of the members are very confident and quite

intimidating, expressing the genre and tone of there music

and personalities, bold and out-there. The costumes they are

wearing follow a primarily gold brown and white colour

scheme, which is matched by the colour of the title font and

arrows. The connotations of the gold is the idea of superiority,

displayed well with the fact that this one band member is in

front of the others in focus and covered in gold. This implies to the audience straight away that

he is likely to be the focus or lead of this piece.

The main writing of this feature is laid out in a

interview style with the questions asked to the

band and then their relevant responses.

Laying it out in this ways allows the reader to

establish a great deal of information in more

concise manner without the use of unnecessary

description, and also means that the reader

learns the exact wording the answers were in and will feel they are gaining

detailed and exclusive information straight from

the source. The use of quotes greatly appeals to

fans as they are interested in all aspects

of the group and will enjoy learning their actual opinions and

thoughts as apposed to ones often speculated by

the press.

Items used to break up the block of text is a quote in bold which gives the reader a glimpse of the key contents of the article and draws their attention to

interesting parts they may otherwise miss or overlook. These pieces are emphasised and add interest to the article. The use of the arrows at the top of

the text almost subconsciously encourage the reader to begin reading.