Spine: Conventions - Research Existing Products

Spine: Conventions - Research

The final part of the album I am going to research is the spine of the album; even though this is the smallest part visible on the album it is also very important as it distinguishes the album when it is stacked alongside other albums. As I have done in my research for the front and back cover of the album I have found typical features which are used on existing CD spines. Here is a list of the conventions used;

• Name of the record company in recognised font, or logo
• Name of band
• Name of album
• Code linking to the record company

As shown in the pictures below, CD spines are used to organise albums so that it is visible for consumers to recognize them when they are stacked. Usually the design of the spine will follow the same format and style as the front and back covers of the album to show continuity and to continue the established style and image of the artist or band.

From my research I have found that one of the main styles used on CD spines is the simple white background with black text and maybe a hint of colour, this is a clear and easy style for the audience as it is easy to read. By choosing this style the main focus of the design can be on the font as the background is plain and simple therefore making the name of the artist and extra information included stands out more. Another main choice for spines on CDs is similar to what I have mentioned above but instead of white background and black text it is reversed to a black background and white text. The final design used is to add colour as shown on the screen shot to the right, this type of design is usually chosen if there is artwork followed throughout the album, I think using colour is a brave choice as it can sometimes make the album look confusing and make it hard for the audience to read the context on the spine. 

In conclusion I have found that the majority of spines on CDs it needs to be clear and neat, also the artists/band name, album name, record company logo and serial need to be featured on the spine as well. Usually only two to three colours are used max this is to keep it clear and easy for the audience to read. Overall the spine works the best when it shows continuity with the front and back covers of the CD.