When I first began working on sequence and design layout of the Art of Dying project, I first worked with a generic type shapes : a medium-weight, condensed sans serif with no definitive style or character.
initial type work:
However, as I continued developing the linework, I began to realize that the project required much more specific type design.
Joe Duplantier's vocals are harsh, as a general rule. But as I listened more closely to the song, I realized there are 2 distinctive rhythmic styles used in the vocal work, which require 2 different typefaces to illustrate them.
The first of these styles is used in the verses (you can listen to the first verse in the video below). It's characterized by strongly accented beats. The drum rhythms are grounded in front of a wall of sound that is suddenly less dense - there is quite a bit of white space compared to the introduction to the song.
To illustrate this, I chose to create a condensed and thick square-edged alphabet with a system of lengthened ascenders and descenders to bring out the accented rhythms and mechanical, technical delivery (which is moreover reflected in the lyrics).
Here's the audio of the first verse:
