We figured fellow map lovers might be interested in “Maps on Vinyl: An Atlas of Album Cover Maps,” which is exactly what the title suggests—a one-of-a-kind book showcasing 415 map-themed album sleeves. Take a peek at it here…

I stumbled on this book, Maps on Vinyl, the other day and thought it was worth sharing. This interesting 332-page linen hardback showcases 415 album covers that feature maps, curated by Australian cartographer and avid vinyl crate-digger Damien Saunder, who has done work for Apple, National Geographic, and the giant atlas Earth. Spanning recordings from 1939 to today, the book presents high-quality reproductions paired with deeply researched notes, organized into eight themed chapters (“C(art)ography,” “We Built This City,” “On the Road,” “African Beats,” “Astroworlds,” “Ocean Whispers,” “Maps with Attitude,” and “Music from Here”). Along the way, it highlights sleeves from artists such as Madonna, Bob Marley, Queen, New Order, Grateful Dead, Oasis, and Brian Eno.

Beyond appearing to be a striking visual anthology, the author suggests that Maps on Vinyl doubles as a cultural document, revealing how cartography on record sleeves reinforces lyric narratives, signals political stances, locates musical origins, and traces identity.

Maps on Vinyl measures 25.5 × 29.3 centimeters with roughly 32,000 words and retails for $50 USD. You can learn more about it at the author’s website here. US customers can pick one up here, UK and EU here, and it’s available here in Australia. In a nod to the artists behind the music, proceeds support Support Act, the Australian not-for-profit assisting musicians and their crews.

Further Reading

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