Sam smith album cover analysis

1. The album cover features
Sam Smith at the front,
in the middle of the
cover; making him the
centre of attention.
Therefore, denoting the
album will be centred on
him via his emotions.
Furthermore, his posture suggests he is ‘upset’. I understand this through
the album being called ‘In the lonely hour’. This ultimately puts across that
the songs featured in the album are sad and emotional. Moreover, Sam
Smiths eyes are closed, therefore not inviting the audience in, which
further isolates him.
Due to Sam Smith
sitting alone along with
a greyish background;
suggests that he is
surrounded with
negative thoughts and
sad events which may
be occurring in his life.
Also his sitting alone
and thinking implies
that he is
contemplative;
referring to the battles
and loneliness he may
be facing. Furthermore,
his clothes are black
which may imply he is
feeling low in depth and
his negative thoughts
are becoming a part of
him both emotionally
and physically, shown
through his appearance
of his outfit and facial
expression.
The title ‘In the lonely hour’ presents the major feeling Smith was
experiencing, making him vulnerable to an audience. It overall expresses
the meaning of the album using very few words, with the term ‘lonely’
being emphasized lot. The title is short and basic but seeks deeper
meaning regarding Sam Smiths feelings but also the songs which may be
featured.
Sam has a glowing look to him.
This is created by the lighting
used in the photoshoot. The
composition of his hand make
it look as if he is praying,
perhaps he is praying for
better, happier times.
Sam Smith also isn’t sitting up
straight which shows that he is
hiding something from his audience.
This implies that he isn’t happy with
his life and his whole situation. It’s as
if he wants to isolate himself and
keep his life private; making him look
innocent.
The font is plain and
therefore doesn’t take
anything away from the
main artist, suggesting
that the album came
from the heart and is
logical. Showing that is
wasn’t highly
processed.
The colour scheme therefore links to his personality as an artist, but also his
genre. With deeper meaning. The cover as a whole is very dark. The effect
of him looking lonely is interesting as his songs are quite sad, the image
implies that he is a man with has deep feelings.
SAM SMITH
Album Cover