Digipak Research

 What Is A Digipak ?

A digipak is a form of CD packaging that may also include freebies related to the band/artist. It commonly has a book cover format and will fold out to reveal artwork or photography of the band on the background however with CD(s) held in front of these on a plastic tray. It may also have included special extra's such as a booklet containing special information like exclusive interviews or artwork related to the band. A digipak can be collectible when it is a special or limited edition and fans of the band will be keen to acquire these.

Key Elements Of A Digipak

• Biographical information on the band.
• Contents of the Digipak, any special freebies? 
• Booklet containing Information on the band/artist.
• Feature the band's logo.
• Record Company Logo when applicable
• How to contact the band/Record company-myspace/website addresses
• Barcode
• A BBFC certification (not always applied)
• Artwork/images/photography
• The Digipak must focus on the brand identity.
• Small blurb summarising the music on the album
• Review quotes from magazine (Kerrang/NME/Q/MixMag)

 Forms of Digipak? 

Although there are different options of digipak layouts available I am most likely to use the 6-panel book format as I think this is the most simplistic and appealing to customers. My personal views on other digipak designs is that they are too messy and become over complicated, reducing the audience likely to buy them. Below is a diagram showing a six panel digipak, the placement of CD's and the slit for a booklet is likely to be changed for my design.

Why Would A Digipak Appeal? 

A well made digipak would contain artwork that would appeal to the target audience, they would want to buy it because the artwork is beautifully done-to their taste. A digipak would also represent the band and associate with the brand identity of the band therefore a fan might want it as a collectible of the band's merchandise. In association with this they may also want it to show off to other fans of the band which would then create more interest in the product. Some digipaks contain collectible/exclusive merchandise of the bands which would further generate interest. In the recent climate where people are questioning wether ''Youth Culture is destroying the music industry'', buying a digipak helps to fund the band and further they're career so by buying it a fan is showing they're support for the band. Also, it's just nice to have a physical copy of music, something to be able to hold rather than a download track which is exactly what a digipak provides but in a more special way. Some digipaks are limited edition or for special anniversary's etc. and owning these translates into you owning something rare and coveted, which any true fan would own. Below are some examples of Digipaks:

My favourite CD Designs

Below are just a few of my favourite CD designs for idea's as to how i might present my digipak and the style of artwork that i would like to explore.

Amy Winehouse-Back To Black

System Of A Down-

System Of A Down-Mezmerize

In Flames-Sounds Of A Playground Fading

Pink Floyd-The Dark Side Of The Moon

All of these CD covers have one thing in common, no matter the genre, and that is the minimalistic design. Its important to me not to overcrowd a CD case as this can completely ruin the artwork and would be more likely to ward off buyers. I also think a more simplistic design would suit my artist anyway, with the laid back nature to his music. I also think that an overcrowded CD case is never successful as people just don't want to bother looking at all the information. If the information is spread out and more easy to read they are much more likely to purchase the CD. Most of these covers have surreal designs and this type of artwork would be likely to feature on my outcome.