Friday 10 December 2010

"Metal Hammer" Front Cover Analysis

Using a white-on-black masthead creates a striking and bold title to catch the reader’s attention. Advertising that this is the 200th issue lets the reader know that it is a special issue , therefore may contain special unseen content. The strap line lets the reader know about another article featured in this particular issue. The main picture on the front cover over laps the masthead, which is popular among magazines. Also, the focus of the photo (Phil Aselmo) is also looking directly into the camera, again creating a personal link to the reader. Phil’s facial expression gives the reader an idea as to who this magazine is aimed at, as this makes him seem like a "badass," suggesting this is aimed at men into dark, sinful music. The photo is a mid shot, so the reader can see Phil’s tattoos. This fits in with the "badass" look. Unlike the majority of magazines, this one does not have a left side third. Instead, the articles are placed either side of the photo. The fonts of each headline match each other as well as the masthead.
The main headline is of the band member, the celebrity. The strap line again gives the reader an idea of what the article is about. The term "exclusive" has been used. It is put in the context of "world exclusive" making it seem even more desirable than the other rival magazines. Like the article headlines, this does not fit in with the codes and conventions of other magazines as it is not as bold, and in the bottom right hand corner, not garnering much attention from the readers, despite it being content within the magazine.

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