The colour scheme within this Mojo article cleverly relates to the famous Nirvana image of a yellow smiley face against a black background and the heading "About A Band" clearly makes reference their song 'About A Girl', it's even written in the same font as the band's name when appearing on their album covers. This shows that the double page spread is well targeted towards Nirvana fans and that Mojo expect readers to share in their knowledge of the band, the frequent similarities to the band's own work seems flattering as if in tribute to their image. The bright yellow results in attention being instantly focused on the text within and also has ironic connotations of happiness and sunshine. This juxtaposes Kurt Cobain's emotional lyrics and personal troubles as well as slightly complimenting the clear contrast between the black and white image, this could link to both the happy and depressed sides of his character. The black and white image seems classic and iconic due to the devoted fans frantically reaching towards him "at Nirvana's first UK festival appearance". Kurt appears quite calm in contrast to the cahos within the audience, this could possibly symbolize a sense of acceptance at his success, although his mouth is slightly open which could also hint at shock. His clothing and general image also fit the classic look of a rock musician through the heavily ripped jeans, leather jacket, long hair and guitar. Kurt's hair is also covering his face which could seem as if he's hiding himself away and doesn't want to be seen, yet he's clearly willing to become involved with the fans by leaving stage to interact more. Instead the flowing hair could therefore highlight the movement and pace of the gig and reflect upon the loud, unignorable sound of Nirvana. Relating again to the music, he is playing a guitar in both images which could symbolize how it was a consistent and important part of his life and suggest that Mojo focus on the actual music rather than the musicians life. The second smaller image seems personal as it appears to have been taken at home which suggest that the article is deep and honest. The two images together could symbolize a journey, for example, Kurt practising instruments in his bedroom and possibly dreaming of a music career then growing into a loved frontman performing to a crowd.
"No Typical Girl" stands out straight away because it is the only large piece of text within the page and there is nothing else but white surrounding it, this draws more focus to an already controversial statement. The title initially appears very stereotypical and because Uncut aren't even trying to hide it this could suggests that they are an edgy magazine, possibly with fixed ideas. The term "Typical Girl" seems to be as subverted as possible within the images which could imply that to be a female musician in a still male dominated industry, you may need to embody as little feminine traits as possible. However, this feature is actually focused on Ari Up from The Slits who had a song called 'Typical Girls'. This shows that although instantly controversial, Uncut have actually used a clever song reference which will appeal to more of a niche market who know The Slits more thoroughly.
The main image within this article provides a feel of togetherness and unity because all band members are positioned close together and the natural style of the photo captures how they seem comfortable and content around each other. Their aesthetics seem to compliment each other as well because each member has dark long hair and because of their flamboyant clothing, they seem quite unusual which could relate to their music. All band members are positioned around the singer to symbolize his lead role and possibly imply that he may have greater status and respect within the band. The use of black and white images on the other page also highlights the vibrant and quite luxurious colours and costumes within the facing image even more. This could almost imply that The Crazy World Of Arthur Brown are such an elaborate and unique band that the people they work with are over shadowed and therefore appear black and white. The large image of a vinyl record also demonstrates that this magazine is highly focused on the music itself which is also apparent in the title 'FIRE!' as that relates to the band's hit song- meaning that readers are again expected to know history from the featured musicians.
Through incorporating personal childhood photographs and usually unseen images this suggests that the article will be focusing on very deep and intimate aspects of Freddie Mercury's life. This implies that Mojo have spent time and effort collecting intense knowledge, possibly insinuating that they as a successful magazine have to right to research and publish such personal stories. However, this could simply be as a sign of respect towards Freddie's talents and charisma more so than any form of meaningless gossip, this idea seems evident through Mojo being a magazine that focuses on music more so than musicians and the images used seem natural. The black and white almost sentimental and honest, meaning that the text will be written with sensitivity and heart, earning the magazine more respect. Within the majority of these images Freddie almost appears unrecognizeable, this could imply that the article is targeted solely towards Queen's dedicated fans, or to perhaps highlight that Freddie may have been insecure in hiding behind a flamboyant mask of stage confidence. The latter suggestion could be backed up by the quote about Freddie's shyness and how "he desperatetly wanted to fit in" These are interesting and shocking statements about a man famous for being so extravagent and theatrical, such an uncharacteristic quote may result in confusion and interest about who could have been the real Freddie Mercury and ultimetely intreage Mojo buyers to read the article.
There is use of both natural and artificial lighting within the main photo of Paul Weller which could hint towards the lighting used within his performance and because the bulbs are above the band, they could almost symbolize a halo. Thus could reflect upon Weller's legendary position within the music industry and even more so the 'godlike gemius' award NME have previously gifted him. His name is 'up in lights' which could reflect a life long dream being achieved, or perhaps it could symbolize that he is still hugely successful without The Jam and could therefore have more independence with his music and his touring. Paul singularly stands out above the band members not just aesthetically by being dressed respectably, formally and noticeably, but his posture and central positioning also seems more important than the others. This will be due to his position has a well known front man and because the article is written about him not his band. The careless expression on his face however, and the way he is holding a cigarette, could imply attitude or toughness, possibly relating to the loud and honest sound of his music as well as the more modern feel of NME's writing style and regular article features. The three insert photo's also capture the essense of touring and therefore hint at the article topic, because Paul Weller is topless and surrounded by young girls within the middle image, this demonstrates that he is still going strong with a devoted fan base and frequent attention although he is older than more current musicians today. The relaxed smile on his face and the way he is projecting his chest forward imply confidence, almost experience and could also suggests that he appreciates the attention. Not forgetting the music however, the bottom image of Paul writing out what appears to be a set list highlights the work put into song writing and touring. Because he is sat down and focused on the task this implies a feel of dedication, commitment and independence which could relate to the fact that Paul has always wrote and played his own songs and cares personally about what he does. This will demonstrate a strong and trustworthy example towards the NME readers.
