Kerrang magazine front cover analysis

Kerrang

Masthead -  The masthead of Kerrang magazine would almost instantly give a clue to the magazine's target audience, a simple black and white but complex and well designed text. The text's cracked effect reminds me of smashed glass, I think that designers did this because it implies that the music featured in this magazine is so loud that it smashes things, perhaps your ears? This could also provide it with a dangerous vibe.

Main Image - The main image could also provides an on looker with the idea of what Kerrang's target audience is. The image, which appears to be a mask of something mutant or monstrous, connotes horror or terror I feel that it looks like some thing from a sci-fi horror movie. The black eyes and silver face show something from a futuristic era and perhaps shows us that that is what the band is relating to with it's music. The images text showing the band's name 'Slipknot' once again showing it's effect of danger! When you hear the word slipknot you think of something murderous, behind the band's name (which has been coloured a mustard brown) there is what appears to be spots of blood, backing up my point the band seems to harbour the theme of horror.

Text and Colour - There are only 3 colours used for text all very dark, they don't uplift a happy mood like some of the music magazines we see i.e. Top of the Pops. This links in with the bands and images featured, once again connoting a bad vibe, also linking to the masthead. Text only a San Serif font has been used on the music cover showing it's modern edge. The magazine itself, along with text and images shows that Kerrang must appeal to groups of people who are interested in genres such as 'Screamo' or 'Rock'.

The website didn't provide any information to it's main audience, sales figures etc. But google did provide a site that gave some info:

Kerrang is the world's biggest selling weekly music magazine and the original multi-platform youth brand for all rock genres. Kerrang delivers the hottest news, reviews, gig guides, exclusive features, posters, videos and more every week. In print, on TV, radio and online, Kerrang lives life loud for its army of dedicated, music loving fans.
Platforms

• Kerrang Magazine
• Kerrang Radio
• Kerrang TV - Sky 368 , Virgin Media 342
• www.kerrang.com
• Kerrang Awards
• Kerrang Tour
• As well as a Facebook and Twitter page!

Audience Profile

Young, individually minded and passionate consumers, an audience defined by attitude, passion and loyalty.
Radio - 15-35 male bias.