Digipaks and Print AdvertsWhat are they? And why are they a key part of music publication?

What is a Digipak?• A Digipak can be described simply as

a CD with a more premium feel. They can feature more than one disc and have exclusive content like art/photography/lyrics and extended information on the albums creation.• As apposed to the regular jewel CD

cases we are most commonly used to, Digipak’s are usually made from cardboard with high quality prints and construction, this is what gives it’s higher quality feeling.

Comparison of two Digipaks – Features and conventions

• These are examples of two digipaks, top being “Favourite Worst Nightmare” by The Arctic Monkeys. Bottom being “Stadium Arcadium” by The Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

• Both Digipaks feature either one or two CD’s that can consist of the tracks and often Live performance and even bonus footage/tracks.

• Both Digipaks, and nearly all are gatefold style meaning that they open up like a gate. Often these “gates” will have artwork relating to the album.

• Another common feature is the booklets included which house lyrics, messages from the artist and publication information.

• Digipaks are usually published as a special or limited edition version of the album.

What is a Print Advert?-

• A print advert is a form of psychical media that has the same purpose as an advert you’d see on TV or Radio. They are designed to promote a product or event.

• The top right print advert is for a live event where the Arctic Monkeys are touring many locations along with a band called “The Stripes”.

• The Advert is designed to give enough information to people who may be interested in the event or product. Whilst maintaining a coherent house style through colors, fonts, and imagery.

Comparison of two Print Adverts- Features and conventions

• The print advert to the right is one from an Arctic Monkeys tour, the left is from a specific gig by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

• Both Print Adverts follow a key house style retaining the colours and font styles used throughout their work.

• Artwork from albums and photography with matching conventions is another key feature.

• They include information including tour dates/locations, the name and other touring bands.

• If it were an album print advert it would follow the same suit as the tour adverts compared above.