Studio Moross designs new free version of NME magazine

For the sort of kids that see a mixtape as the apotheosis of tokens of affection or spent much of their time in Year 11 on Libertines forums hiding behind internet usernames like AlbionDream_1, NME magazine has been something of a cultural pillar. Whatever you think of it now, it’s played a big part in many an indie disco-frequenter’s youth, and its latest innovation (announced in July) was that it was to go free, and bolster its digital offer. Who better to take its look and feel back to its best than the hands of the bright, fun and always hip Studio Moross?

The agency was brought in to work on the project a few months back, when it was called into “NME Towers” to discuss creating some illustrations with the mag’s creative director Simon Freeborough and editor-in-chief Mike Williams. “We had a suspicion that something big was in the making. When they told us about the new vision for the magazine we were really excited to become contributors,” says Studio Moross.

The new look aims to be clear and immediate while adding some playful touches. “Simon was keen to bring some character to the pages with the franchise headers. As it was important that they all had their own individual appeal to help you navigate the pages. Supporting them were lots of smaller spots which also needed attention, a few playful splashes between the columns of Helvetica.” says the studio.

“We approached each logo as its own brand, split up between the design team but then bringing them all back together to apply the collective look to make them also feel like a family. We had a few challenges fitting the logotypes and illustrations around the articles and images, especially as the editorial design of the magazine was still in the process of being designed itself…It was great to bring colour and energy to the relaunch of the magazine.”