Wet Leg, a British indie rock band, embarked on a creative journey to select the cover image for their upcoming album. Lead singer Rhian Teasdale, along with art directors Iris Luz and Lava La Rue, explored various unique items like velvet worms, an oversized head of hair, and lizard-like gloves at an Airbnb to create a striking image for their album “Moisturizer.”
The unconventional, yet captivating final cover image, inspired by a weekend photo, secured a Grammy nomination for best album cover. This year marks the return of the award category after over 50 years, with other nominees including Bad Bunny’s “Debi Tirar Mas Fotos,” Tyler, the Creator’s “Chromakopia,” Perfume Genius’s “Glory,” and Djo’s “The Crux.”
The Recording Academy has introduced this separate category to acknowledge the significance of cover art in the digital era. The award recognizes the collaborative efforts of art directors and recording artists in crafting visually compelling representations of music.
Each album cover tells a unique story, from Wet Leg’s blend of girly and repulsive elements to Perfume Genius’s introspective exploration of private and public personas. The creativity, design, and visual storytelling of these covers play a crucial role in enhancing the overall music experience.
The process of creating these visually captivating artworks involves meticulous planning, casting, and styling to bring the artist’s vision to life. The covers not only serve as a visual representation of the music but also reflect the depth and complexity of the album’s themes and emotions.
In the evolving landscape of music consumption, physical album covers, particularly on vinyl or CD, continue to hold a special place in fans’ hearts. The tangible presence of these artworks adds a layer of intimacy and nostalgia to the listening experience, making them cherished pieces in a music lover’s collection.
The Grammys’ recognition of album cover art as a standalone category highlights the importance of visual storytelling in music. The nominees and winners in this category represent a diverse range of artistic talents who push boundaries, challenge norms, and create visually stunning works that resonate with audiences worldwide.
