DROP Music Technology & Culture Magazine is a monthly publication aimed at audiophiles, ages 16–40, with coverage specializing in musical movements from different time periods, analyzing the technological, social, and political context in which the sound was created. This publication appeals to its readership by conceptually pairing provocative imagery with equally interesting headlines and subject matter. Layouts and most images were conceived and created by myself, the photography was not. DROP is a passion project, as it combines my two loves and career arcs—music and graphic design.
DROP Issue 69 October 2016
DROP Issue 83 December 2017
DROP Issue 101 June 2019
DROP Issue 113 June 2020
Before embarking on the above and below spreads, I knew absolutely nothing about the enigmatic microgenre of electronic music known as vaporwave. I encountered the visual language online, but had no idea of its musical connection. Vaporwave incorporates early Internet imagery, statues, and glitch art in often purposely poor design, known as the 'vaporwave aesthetic,' or simply 'a e s t h e t i c,' in an attempt to satirize consumer capitalism and pop culture. I jumped at the challenge of wrapping my head around the codified language of this ambiguous and satirical culture.
My creative brief was guided by the goal of designing imagery and feeling which respects the visual language established by the vaporwave community of creators and fans who love the style both ironically and sincerely. Simultaneously, I set out to make my vision palatable to the uninitiated reader, while thoughtful enough to show intention to fellow designers. Juggling these considerations was no easy task, but final consensus is the majority caught the wave.
Creative & Art Direction: Nathan Savage / Amy Sly
