Album Analysis

RENT, one of the most successful musicals in Broadway history was produced once again in 2005 to touch our souls.  Unlike the original version from the Broadway musical,

The acts were generated into a film. Many would probably have heard the songs from RENT and may know the general narrative of the musical. Songs from the musical are simply remarkable. Not just the sound, but also the lyrics that convey powerful messages regarding the situation or the characters from the musical.

The cover for its soundtrack is wonderfully designed, depicting the main characters from RENT. Lyrics describe the characters, and the cover represents the characters’ emotional aesthetics. Characters are divided into seven different sets of colors. If application of colors is examined closely, there are definite reasons to why these colors were chosen. Psychological color symbolism gives us general idea to each character’s aesthetic.

Starting from top right, orange represents desire and enthusiasm; Violet, excitement and various personalities; Black, authority, power, strength, and self-confidence; Green, envy, serene and inner beauty; Red, intensity, love/anger, respect; Yellow, energy and sensuality; Blue, loyalty and calm. (http://psychology.about.com/od/sensationandperception/a/colorpsych.htm)

 While most colors correspond to the expressions of the characters, there is something about black, on top left that bothers me a little. While black is supposed to represent the idea of self-confidence, power, authority, and strength, however, the woman’s position shows he weakness. She is positioned awkwardly, trapped in a squared frame, and seems as if she’s almost trying to hide herself.

 

These descriptions may not represent the exact personalities of the characters. However, various colors help each character to maintain his or her individuality, while unifying them.

 

The overall story is about various artists living a bohemian life in New York. The soundtrack provides various genres such as rock, R&B, dance, and Latin. It is more than a sound. The music allows us to visualize the scene, reminding us the importance of the story. Thus, the album cover represents characteristics of individuals rather than depicting the type of song that is included in the album. Portrayal of the characters and their emotional sides capture the viewer’s eye. It almost seems like characters on the cover are looking straight at you, mysteriously. The “eye contact” is extremely powerful, and it seems as if they have something to say that cannot be told.