Vinyl & Event Artwork for Leftback Records
Working with the respected electronic music label Leftback, I was commissioned to art-direct and design a wide range of vinyl covers and event posters. The objective was to build upon their strong existing brand identity, creating fresh, impactful visuals that would capture the essence of each musical release and drive engagement with their audience.
Visual Style & Creative Execution
My design approach was to create a visual narrative for the music. Rather than applying a single rigid style, I developed distinct visual themes that complemented the specific sound of each project:
For the Core Typographic Series: I worked within their iconic numbered framework, taking the lead on art direction for each release. My focus was on developing sophisticated and evolving color palettes that gave each record a unique identity while maintaining the cohesive, collectible feel of the series.
For Sub-Labels & EPs: I expanded the brand's visual language by introducing layered, abstract compositions. Using a mix of fluid shapes, organic gradients, and subtle digital textures (like grain and noise), I created artwork with a sense of depth and atmosphere that mirrored the nuanced soundscapes of the music.
For Landmark Releases: For crucial projects like the label's 10th anniversary, I designed bespoke, high-impact visuals. The celebratory 3D-rendered artwork created a premium, futuristic feel that marked the occasion as a significant milestone, positioning the release as a standout piece in their discography.
Impact and Achievements
My designs directly contributed to Leftback's continued success by translating their auditory curation into a powerful visual experience.
Forged a Deeper Audience Connection: The artwork serves as a visual entry point to the music. The clean, geometric designs signal precision and rhythm, while the more textural, fluid pieces suggest deeper, atmospheric journeys. This visual storytelling creates anticipation and enhances the listener's overall experience.
Increased Digital Visibility & Sales: In the crowded digital marketplaces of Bandcamp, Beatport, and social media, the unique and vibrant artwork ensured Leftback's releases stood out, capturing attention and driving clicks, plays, and purchases.
Reinforced Brand Prestige: The quality and conceptual depth of the designs reinforced Leftback’s reputation as a tastemaker label. The bespoke artwork for special editions and collaborations communicated a commitment to quality and artistry, strengthening their brand in the eyes of DJs, fans, and industry peers.
