Analysis of magazine front coversCover 2. Kerrang!

December 10th 2005 – Foo Fighters edition

Front cover analysisThe header summarises the bands that are going to be featured in the magazine. As the genre of this magazine is rock the bands are rocks bands that would be known by the target audience.

The Masthead “KERRANG!” clearly stands out at the top of the page – it takes up a large proportion of the page and uses a dramatic font style that has the look of broken glass (has the rock feel). The exclamation mark makes it more dramatic and prominent.

The main image is a mid shot of the lead singer of the Foo Fighters (the main article in the magazine – shows by ‘FOO FIGHTERS’ underneath the image) He is looking straight at the camera with a slight head tilt – he looks mysterious and moody which gives off the rocker air. Although he is wearing a smart shirt it is unbuttoned and the sleeves are rolled up – the red is also a very bold statement and shows that as a rocker he isn't afraid of being bold. We can see the tattoo on his left arm which most people relate to rebellion which the genre of rock is clearly linked to.

Copy of Kerrang 8 page special is under the masthead. The younger band who are all dress in black are younger generation rockers which means they are used to broaden the target audience.

The left third is left free for key content and sell lines.The layout of the front cover observes the rule of thirds which structures the layout. The cover is image dominated and feels busy, almost organised clutter. This suggests the unconventional way of rock and the rebellious genre it is .

The footer at the bottom of the page lists more rock bands that will feature in the paper. The use of the word ‘Plus:’ at the beginning of the footer suggests you are getting more for your money.

Main sell line anchors the main image so that the audience can see who the person on the cover is. Also the font is big bold and contrasting with the background therefore it stands out. The ‘UK tour exclusive’ makes it seem special and the caption ‘Back to blow your mind’ also adds dramatic effect.

Barcode, Date/Issue and Price are all essential elements on a magazine if they are to sell copies. Its a small box and it is towards the bottom right corner this is so that it doesn’t distract from what the magazine is saying.

Target Audience of this magazineAs the target audience is mainly males aged 13-20the main image of the magazine is perfect because it is a well known male artists from a big rock band who many men will admire. Due to the fact the main singer of FooFighters is looking out to the camera it is as if he is looking out to the reader and therefore draws there attention.

£1.80

Weekly Magazine

Since 1981

FACTS!

• Kerrang! magazine was first published on June 6, 1981

• It was originally a one-off supplement in The Sounds newspaper.

• Named after the onomatopoeic word that comes from the noise made when you smash an electric guitar.

• Was initially devoted to the new wave of British Heavy Metal and the rise of hard rock acts such as AC/DC who appeared on Kerrang!’s first cover.

• Launched as a monthly magazine its high demand meant it could then be printed fortnightly and eventually weekly.

• Here in the United Kingdom the magazine is published by Bauer Consumer Media and has become the world’s biggest selling weekly rock magazine.

• Target audience is mainly males age 13-20.

• Kerrang! Is £1.80.

• Kerrang! Focus’ mostly on the Punk Rock genre.

KERRANG!

• Phil Alexander (editor in chief / associate publisher)• James McMahon (editor)• Chris Anderson (art editor)• Lucy Williams (production editor)• Simon Young (Deputy Editor, podcast presenter)• Nick Ruskell (features editor)• Scarlet Borg (picture editor)• George Garner (reviews editor)• Alex Shellim (deputy art editor)• Bobbie Lane (sub editor/editorial assistant)• Jen Walker (Listings Editor)• Laura Richardson (designer)• Katie Parsons (Introducing Editor)