Which Are the Best Looking Album Covers?

The album cover is often the first impression music lovers get of an artist’s latest work. Great album art can enhance the listening experience, make a visual statement, and even become a cultural icon. If you’re looking to elevate your record player display, here are some of the best looking album covers to consider for your collection.

The Impact of Album Art

Good album art does more than just look pretty. It sets the tone for the music within, offers insight into the artist’s vision, and can even elevate the value of the album itself. Some album covers are so striking that they become masterpieces in their own right. Displaying these covers on your record player setup can add an extra layer of style and sophistication to your musical environment.

Iconic Album Covers

Certain album covers have stood the test of time and continue to be celebrated for their artistic excellence. Here are a few you might want to showcase on your record player display:

The Beatles – Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

This album cover, designed by Peter Blake and Jann Haworth, features the Beatles in bright military-style costumes surrounded by a collage of famous figures. The colorful and intricate design remains one of the most recognizable in music history.

Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon

Designed by Hipgnosis and George Hardie, this minimalistic cover features a prism spectrum. The design has become synonymous with Pink Floyd and is often hailed as one of the greatest album covers of all time.

Prince – Purple Rain

Featuring Prince himself astride a motorcycle, this album cover is as iconic as the artist. The cover art’s rich purple hues and dramatic composition make it a perfect piece to display with your record player setup.

Nirvana – Nevermind

The underwater shot of a baby swimming towards a dollar bill on a fishhook is both provocative and unforgettable. This cover, shot by photographer Kirk Weddle, quickly became a symbol of the grunge era.

Modern Masterpieces

While classic album covers get a lot of attention, modern artists continue to push the boundaries of album art design. Here are some contemporary covers that are worth adding to your collection:

Kanye West – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

George Condo’s surreal and controversial artwork for Kanye’s album is a visually striking piece that captures the chaotic and grandiose nature of the music.

Lorde – Melodrama

Painted by Sam McKinniss, this cover art is a vibrant depiction of youth and emotion. The use of bold colors and expressive brushstrokes makes it a standout piece.

Billie Eilish – When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?

The eerie and haunting imagery of Billie Eilish sitting on a bed with an unsettling expression perfectly complements the dark and introspective themes of the album.

Displaying Your Album Covers

Once you’ve curated a collection of visually stunning album covers, it’s time to think about how to display them with your record player. Here are some tips to make the most of your aesthetic:

Frame Your Albums

One option is to frame your favorite album covers and hang them on the wall. This not only protects the covers from damage but also makes them a focal point in your room.

Use Shelf Stands

Small stands or easels can be a great way to display album covers on top of your record player cabinet or bookshelf. They allow you to easily rotate the albums you have on display.

Record Bins

Stylish record bins can be used to store your albums while also keeping them visible. Clear or open-front bins offer a practical and aesthetically pleasing way to showcase your collection.

Conclusion

The best looking album covers can significantly enhance your record player setup, offering both an auditory and visual feast. Classic covers from The Beatles and Pink Floyd, along with modern works by Kanye West and Billie Eilish, are perfect examples of album art that make a lasting impression.

If you're an aspiring musician looking to bring your creative vision to life, consider using SoundOn for your music distribution needs. Not only does SoundOn help you reach a wider audience, but it also provides tools to make your album an aesthetic masterpiece.

Start curating your collection today and let your album covers be a testament to the beauty of music and visual art combined.