This in-depth feature highlights how well-executed album artwork can go beyond genre lines to expand into territories of philosophical, thematic, and conceptual significance. The amount of time and effort that goes into planning and executing album cover artwork is rarely acknowledged — but as you’ll see from the thoughtful responses shared by musicians and artists, perhaps now more than ever, album artwork is an extension of the musical product itself.

Our third annual year-end cover art recap, this year’s is the most unconventional yet. Album covers are no longer ranked in a linear fashion, but are shown on a spectrum, just like our Albums of the Year and Top Songs.

THE BREAKDOWN

   12 Collage
+ 14 Digital Illustration, Drawing, Design
+ 19 Illustration, Painting, Drawing
+ 8 Black And White Photography
+ 22 Color Photography
+ 6 Deluxe Packaging
+ 10 Fashion, Sculpture, Installation
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   91 Album Covers For 2011