Textual Analysis of Album Cover - The Fratellis

The Fratellis album cover;
Here we stand.
Released in 2008

Similarly to The Courteeners, this album cover also does not feature the band members on it. However, this album cover features a carnival leader which could connote that this band or perhaps this album is about having fun and enjoying themselves. This is anchored by his costume as it sets him up as someone that leads the carnival. The fact that he is centre of the frame also shows that he is a dominant character and this may connect to the bands persona. He is also wearing sunglasses which add mystery and enigma as you cannot see his eyes. The setting of a carnival tent also anchors this idea of fun and excitement and therefore indicates that the music on the album is also exciting. The lighting is natural lighting which additionally connotes that the music is fresh and could connote that the lyrics have real meaning and aren’t artificial. The title is in white which connotes purity and stands out on the picture background. It is also bond which has connotations of the band being bold and important. This importance is also anchored by the title being in the centre of the frame which connotes that this band is bold, important and commands attention. The album name also could connect to the man as it is “here we stand” and he is standing alone. However, his gesture is very strong and bond indicating that he is not afraid to be himself which could suggest that the band also have this mentality. Furthermore, the fratellis translated means ‘the brothers’ which connotes the closeness of the band-mates and could help appeal to the target audience as it gives the band ‘role model status’ to their target demographic. As the setting is a carnival, this may also indicate that the band’s target demographic is more focused at a youthful audience of teens and young adults. This is similar to the Maccabees cover.