Masthead The masthead featured on this particular example is the famous NME logo.

Like all other examples of NME, the logo is situated in the top right corner, meaning it is the first thing the reader will see when viewing the front cover of the magazine. However, this particular masthead is different and is unlike the common logo used, as the lettering is black and the background is a mixture of white and red. This unusual use of colour used to portray the most recognisable part of the magazine may suggest the uniqueness of both this particular magazine, and the artists who are featuring inside.

Layering A substantial amount of layering has been used on this particular magazine cover to create a busy, colourful page which is both interesting and therefore eye catching to the reader. The use of overlapping images gives the page a certain modern feel, this may suggest that this magazine is aimed at a younger audience, who prefer to view busy, interesting pages, rather than basic simple ones.

Talkie Headline A talkie headline is used above the main cover line, allowing the artists personality to be shown to the reader straight from the off. By using this technique, the designer has allowed the reader to gain knowledge of the artists personality, this therefore may entice the reader to discover more about this artist, as they may agree with the quote or find it amusing and therefore may be persuaded to read on. Wob A vast amount of Wobs are used on this particular page, giving the front cover a unique status. Although they are extremely effective, Wobs are usually uncommon features of magazine covers. Therefore, the fact that such a large amount are used on this particular cover, may suggest the uniqueness of both the magazine and the artist which is featuring.

Main Image Here, the main image is of Kasabians best known members, lead singer Tom Meighan and lead guitarist Sergio Pizzorno. The designer may have opted to use these two individuals to attract and entice the readers in; as well known artists are more likely to attract the public than unknown artists.

Main cover line Here, the main cover line is the name of the artist featuring, in this case, Kasabian. The red lettering on the black background allows the main cover line to stand out and become one of the most noticeable aspects of the page. The font is bold yet clear and the capital letters suggest that the name is both a status as well as a name.

Cover lines Numerous cover lines are spread across the page giving the front cover a busy, cluttered appearance. This particular cover once again contains another element of uniqueness as the cover lines are not only situated on the sides of the page, but in the middle as well. This unusual placement may capture the readers eye because of its clear, unique difference.

Barcode The barcode is another crucial aspect of a magazine front cover as this particular aspect contains vital information such as the date, issue number and cost of the magazine. Here, it is situated in the bottom left corner. The barcode is usually placed in the bottom corners of the magazine cover as the designer wants it to be noticed, but not to take any attention away from the main selling aspects such as the main image, masthead or main cover line.

Banner The theme of unusual placements seems to be a reoccurring feature on this particular magazine cover, and the banner is no exception. A typical music magazine will usually feature the banner at the very top of the page, above the masthead. However, in this case the banner is situated below the main cover line, and therefore is situated toward the bottom of the page. The font used is simple and clear for the reader to see, as a Wob has also been used. The black background allows the white writing to appear clearer and is therefore eye catching and simple for the reader to see. Colour Pallet Like many published pieces, this magazine features the three most traditional printing colours of red, black and white. All three of these colours are both simple yet effective and complement each other to the maximum. The use of black and white gives the cover a simple, clean cut appearance, yet the addition of vivid red brings the page to life and highlights crucial aspects in order for them to stand out e.g. the main cover line.