Textual Analysis of 2 existing music magazines, (NME)

The logo is large and bold black text, which helps it stand out. The red black and white style links with the normal housestyle, although in recent times NME have released 7 covers for a magazine, to show diversity. The logo has also changed, the letters used to have a white outline and a red fill, whereas now it is just black. The regular change in housestyle could suggest their outlook on music, and that they are open to different types of music. The midshot of James Allan from Glasvegas is quite striking because of the direct eye contact with the camera and the writing on his chest, such as 'I've seen things you people wouldn't believe.' It gives the cover a bit more edge and makes it more appealing and interesting to the reader. On the right there are a list of bands and singer featured in the magazine, they are quite a mixture, for example 'Vampire Weekend' make different music from 'Cee-Lo Green'. Also small thumbnails of Mike Skinner and PJ Harvey show who else is in the magazine. By doing this the reader knows instantly who is in the magazine without having to read through it in the shop. The use of the word 'Free' with the posters makes the reader feel like they are getting a bit more for their money, and makes them feel privileged, (not shown on scan).

The contents has an interesting layout, the sections are randomized and show the highlights of the magazine. A small section with the heading 'Plus' shows what else is in the magazine, and they usually feature the usual sections here. I like this layout, 'Inside This Week' is bold and clear against the white background, and think the way the contents is random makes it more interesting to look at. Underneath the small pictures, quotes are taken from the articles, it makes you want to go to that page and read more. The main picture and article is in the middle, also the title of it advertises NME. By having an awards ceremony, it shows that they are more than just a magazine, and gives them more authority.

I wanted to analyse this double page spread because I am a fan of the band, and i like the layout. The font is interesting, and is different from the normal NME font. The title refers to the article, and their new album title. Because the font is unique, it could be portraying the band as that. I like that the pictures relate to the article, and that they aren't shot in a studio, it adds a bit more individuality to the article, and gives the pictures more edge. The lighting is quite dark, and the mid shots show them in a relaxed stance. The pictures of them at work show the objects they have been using as instruments, and aids the article. On the 2nd page, i like how the text of the quote is set out, it makes you take it in more. I really like this double page spread because of the layout, and how the photos portray them as quite casual and slightly mysterious because of the lighting and setting.