Animated album covers have been slowly rolled out by Apple Music the last couple of years. Instead of a still album cover like people are used to, an animated album cover moves which can add depth to the album. Music and art will always go together. Through my research I found that animated album covers can enhance the user experience of the listeners
In this project, we have been tasked to design an animated album cover for a South African band.
Uncle Spike has an alternative, indie, rock sound. They’re not afraid of taking risks when it comes to song writing. They like to make commentary on South African events even if it’s controversial. They have a diverse set of sounds and use unconventional instruments. Uncle Spikes target audience consist out of the South African youth who enjoy alternative music. Furthermore the target market can be hipsters and Afrikaans people who enjoy alternative music or people who admire the Afrikaans language and its unique culture.
In their album, “I in the Sky”, there is a song called “Zaan Kultuur” which refers to the South African smoking culture. “Zaan” is slang for cigarette and in this song they sing about the benefits of included in the smoking community.
I used this concept to develop my animated album cover. I illustrated a cigarette box with flowers growing out and butterflies flying away which represents “Zaan Kultuur”. The cigarette box symbolizes the smoking community
I used flat stylistic illustrations to create a retro look and feel. The tone of voice of this animated album colour is vibrant, nostalgic and happy. The background grain effect adds to the nostalgic tone. I used the animation principles like arcs to enhance my animation.
The gap identified is that Uncle Spike doesn’t have a animated album cover for any of their albums. Having an animated album cover for their album “I in the Sky” can reach more listeners.
My album cover celebrates the vibrant culture of Uncle Spike fans and “Zaan Kultuur”.
