CD disc format and typesetting

 CD disc format and typesetting 

I wanted to improve and finalise the CD disc format concept for the publication by testing out ways I could feature the typesetting that would work both when the CD is twisted apart and when it is together. The initial test I created had some limitations in terms of the type setting, as the text didn't fit right and didn't follow the curve of the circles. 

This design is mostly similar to the previous CD disk concepts I created, as it uses the type on path tool for the typesetting. I feel like with this form of typesetting, the text isn't disrupted enough when twisted, so it would be better to try having the type on a horizontal rather than curved. The different colours on the above plan are just to show the separate layers of the circle and where it will be cut up physically. 

In order to experiment further, I tried playing around with having the type horizontal to the circles, meaning that when twisted it would be more distorted thus linking to the themes of censorship more. I like the idea of having the rule in a larger type, as the design feels more reminiscent of actual CD covers. The issue with this example in particular is that the main body of text feels a bit rigid, so to improve it I wanted to wrap it to the curve of the circle.

Here is the finalised and improved version, with the subtle alteration of having the type curved to the shape of the disc; this just means that there is more of a balance between the publication working visually when it is twisted and put together. I quite like the concept of not using any images as well, as I feel like it fits better with the idea of Berlin being very anti phone and anti photo. Also, with more negative space there will be more emphasis on the symbols and information provided. 

Initial test

I wanted to create an initial test for the 'lose yourself' rule; featuring the symbol in the centre helped maintain relevance in terms of the importance of the symbol as a motif. Also, I feel like it would be interesting and consistent to have each CD disc printed on the colour corresponding to each rule, in this case the colour I previously used was red. I also used Futura as it has a lot of significance within the Berlin techno scene, and doesn't overpower the design. 

I twisted the circle elements on photoshop just to demonstrate how the concept would work in person and how the user would navigate throughout the series of CDs. I really like how playful this process is, as there is an element of censorship balanced with excitement in terms of what the publication will reveal. It would be interesting to try and mockup an actual physical copy, so I might try and do this in order to see if the concept is practically sound.