Digipak Research

There are a couple of different types of digipak, which can be more-or-less split into two groups. The first stores any discs inside the panels of the packaging, so that every surface can be used for artwork. The second is the opposite, using on of the panels to present the disk similar to a standard CD case.

Style 1: Gorillaz 2001-2011 singles collection

This is an example of the first style. The music disk is secreted inside the packaging, and there is a foldout poster also included. Every panel of the digipak is completely filled with colourful images of the Gorillaz characters, in the iconic style. This takes the place of regular photos, due to the Gorillaz being fictional cartoons, and so these images of the characters reinforce the fictional star image instead of photographs. The Gorrillaz are depicted in various outfits, but the overall style is comparable to previous depictions of them, thus maintaining continuity. This montage-like design is rather unique, giving the product an element of entropy.

The back of the digipak has a listing of all the tracks and bonus content included. It also has a barcode, as well as publishing details.


Style 2

This is an example of the second digipak style I identified. Overall, it is much plainer than the Gorillaz digipak. Here, the panels are mainly red in coulor, with some black images on most panels.  Some panels are overlaid with text, which alternates between red and yellow colouring. The yellow is also found on the disk and insert booklet, ensuring that these items stand out. Here, the disk is held on one of the panels, in a manner comparable to regular disc cases. As with the first digipak, the track list is printed on the back, along with various details relating to copyrights and the product's publication. The overal design is fairly redundant, being a somewhat standard example of 'music disc casing'.