Cannes Lions
THIRD MAN RECORDS, Nashville, Tn / BAZMARK INC. / 2014
Overview
Entries
Credits
Description
We sought to honor the simplicity and grandeur of Art Deco while providing an uncommon listening experience. The challenge then became teaching our staff how to build record jackets. In terms of cost and texture, this meant finding the appropriate materials and prepping them for assembly. Once those elements were in place, our team learned together how to fabricate jackets. First, laser-cut wooden covers, a process taking one hour per copy. Next, we stained the pine. Once dry, we applied felt strips to protect the records. We then drilled holes in the aluminium spines, finally binding it all with rivets.
Execution
The final design is a distillation of the film's hyper-real palette and Art Deco motifs. The decision was made to move away from simulation to actuality--to provide a glimpse into the true textures of Art Deco, thereby lending depth to the listening experience. The result is classic meets cutting edge: a felt-lined, hand-stained, laser-cut pine sleeve with an aluminium spine, assembled by hand at our headquarters. Both records included in this edition are plated gold and platinum, respectively, marking these the first-ever commercially released metalized records. These elements help showcase an old style in the arms of the new.
Outcome
Prepared in small numbers as limited edition component of an otherwise typical vinyl release, all copies have been sold and dispatched with the exception of those few retained for our archives. The gold, platinum, wood and aluminium is the only record of its kind and is clear extension of the film's imagery. It was, without a doubt, an item best appreciated by record collectors instead of casual fans. In fact, the sheer scarcity of this product ensures it will remain exciting as time passes.