With the emphasis on digital downloading, there's been a trend with artists ignoring the importance of strong, powerful artwork, but that's all changing. These are our favorite albums to look at, and here's hoping for even more on the horizon.


1. Of Montreal: Skeletal Lamping

This record hasn't even come out yet, but the artwork alone promises excitement, color, beauty and freedom.













2. The Notwist: The Devil, You + Me

Minimal, vibrant colors fit into a variety of patterns that depend upon the observer, or in this case, the listener.













3. Ratatat: LP3

I'm not a huge fan of this duo, but the album art is striking. A beam of deep colors shoots down, penetrating a statue. We could talk for hours about the symbolism, but it's just nice to look at.












4. The Verve: Forth

Here's hoping The Verve's new album will be as majestic and expansive as this cover suggests. Nice.













5. Fleet Foxes: S/T

The artwork depicts peasant life and struggle, but hints at the possibility for unity. Something about this cover works perfectly -- considering that this is a band that creates some of the best harmonies in the biz.












6. Pyramids: S/T

One of the best uses of animal life, nature, and photoshop I've seen all year.














7. Wire: Object 47

Simple, linear and smooth. That about sums up ninety-percent of Wire's groundbreaking career.













8. The Jealous Girlfriends: S/T

There's something very comforting about this cover; the warm tones and scenery. Whether the album is good or not, I already feel like I got my money's worth.












9. Fuck Buttons: Street Horrrsing

This is, literally, a fucked up album cover. But it also looks as if a spaceship is going to rescue you from the extreme aural chaos coming your way.













10. Air France: No Way Down EP

A child running free with a kite means pop music right? Well, sort of. It also portrays a freeing sense of reality, escapism and most of all, dreams. This release sounds exactly like that.