In the age of digital downloads, the art of the album back cover is starting to disappear. Yet for the music enthusiast it holds an enticing alternative to the front cover, not only providing all important details of the recordings, but often images that were less guarded, and might that let you into the musicians world or recording process.
We have all become so used to the classic album covers, but revisiting the reverse side can offer a reason to reconnect with a much-loved album.
This blog was also inspired by an approach to photography that encourages tourists not to take holiday photos of ‘picture postcard’ locations and attractions we have become all too numb to. Instead, it urges us to turn 180 degrees and capture the view less photographed, and in doing so, snap an alternative record of our experience.
What others have said:
"This week we have been delving into the much ignored world of back sleeve artwork thanks to The Turnaround. It’s an entertaining & informative look at the well rounded rears of some well-known, & not so well known albums & will make you want to perv a plenty at the posterior of your own personal collections." Resident Music, Brighton (www.resident-music.com)
This seems like a good idea. Front covers have always been the subject of attention and are becoming a little boring. Opening a new field of interest in back covers could well uncover some of the designers' thinking that has, so far, been largely hidden. There are also some interesting features of back covers that could make them just as attractive to use as art as the front. While looking for online samples of Hiss Golden Messenger I came across a track (Fennario) that he has contributed to a Michael Chapman tribute album entitled "Oh Michael, Look What You've Done: Friends Play Michael Chapman". Perhaps some of Michael Chapman's album art is worth exploring. I also have an attic full of old blues, folk and rock albums the covers of which I'm sure would generate some curiosity.
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