MAP “Fever Dream” 2xLP TAIGA records

By Loaf Nest

The Idea

The jazz trio MAP recorded their album Fever Dream as a long form improvisation that was then edited into vignettes. The musicians did not have any visual direction for Fever Dream and gave us complete freedom to create the artwork and design. MAP uses traditional jazz instruments, guitar, bass and percussion, to create contemporary free improvisations. Through a series of listening sessions and sharing visual demonstrations with the musicians, we chose to utilize the offset printing process. The outside of the gatefold jacket is inspired by offset printing press calibration sheets while the inside explores microscopic abstractions of half-tones.

Delivery of Work

MAP Fever Dream was manufactured in an edition of 1000 double long-playing vinyl records & distributed worldwide. A majority of the edition have been sold by the musicians following live performances. All three of the musicians have remarked that the visual presentation has assisted their sales. They claim that by opening the gatefold jacket and displaying the etched Side D has convinced many curious buyers to take it home.

The Results

Through an intense communication between sound and visuals, the design displays a direct correlation to the contents. The musicians were struck by the final design & its direct conversation with the recording. The final presentation of Fever Dream shows a careful balance of vivid color, subdued grays, surreal imagery and chromatic psychedelia that mirrors the dynamics of the audio.

Credits

 

Event Sponsors

Additional generous support provided by Lagunitas Brewing Comapny and The Fraternal Order of Eagles #34