Silk Sonic
Record Set
Identity Redesign
2024
This project challenged me to create alternative album covers for Silk Sonic’s retro R&B album, “An Evening with Silk Sonic”, that maintains the essence of their throwback style while pushing the design toward a bolder, more contemporary visual identity.
My goal was to craft a fresh visual identity that captures Bruno Mars’ and Anderson Paak’s retro-soul, 70s aesthetic while bringing a modern twist. Through thoughtful typography, rich oranges and browns, and dynamic compositions, I created covers that not only honor the music's vintage feel, but also resonate with modern audiences.
The redesigned album covers successfully capture the distinctive atmosphere, mood, and sound of the album into powerful, engaging visuals. These designs stay true to the duo’s smooth, charismatic energy.
For all three front covers, I incorporated visuals with soft edges and typography with flowing lines to evoke a sense of warmth, movement, and musicality. The use of soft glows and gentle lighting adds a layer of depth and atmosphere, reflecting Silk Sonic’s smooth, velvety sound. I chose a palette of warm browns and rich oranges to maintain a connection to the band’s original aesthetic which is rooted in 1970s soul and funk, while giving it a refreshed, modern sensibility. My goal was not to stray far from Silk Sonic’s established visual identity, but to refine and reframe it with subtle design choices that amplify their timeless, romantic, and luxurious vibe.
For the back cover, I opted for a deeper shade of orange and brown and a more grounded and structured design, providing a deliberate contrast against the softer, flowing elements on the front. This shift in tone not only adds visual balance, but also amplifies the luxurious and exclusive feel of the overall cover. Featuring the signatures of Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak brings an additional layer of sophistication, reinforcing the personal touch and unique identity of Silk Sonic as a superduo.
This project challenged me to merge nostalgia with modern design in a way that felt authentic to Silk Sonic. I enjoyed pushing their retro aesthetic into a fresh direction, while still honoring the soul and funk that define their sound. It was both a highlight and a challenge exploring how sound impacts visuals and vice versa. Overall, I’m proud of how these covers came out and how they truly fit with the sound and aesthetic of Mars and .Paak.
