Wet Leg, the British indie rock band, recently embarked on a creative quest to choose the cover image for their upcoming sophomore album. To spark inspiration, the band gathered eclectic items, including velvet worms and lizard-like gloves, and retreated to an Airbnb. This unique atmosphere played a pivotal role in the artistic direction they took for the cover of their single “Moisturizer.”
Lead singer Rhian Teasdale described the visual concept as a blend of girly and repulsive elements, creating a striking juxtaposition. Collaborating with art directors Iris Luz and Lava La Rue, they aimed to craft something evocative, and their efforts resulted in a Grammy nomination for Best Album Cover — a recognition being awarded for the first time in over half a century.
Wet Leg is among several nominees in the newly established category, which also includes works by Bad Bunny for “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” Tyler, the Creator for “Chromakopia,” Perfume Genius for “Glory,” and Djo for “The Crux.” Notably, the award will recognize the art directors behind the album covers, while recording artists are included as nominees in all cases, except for “Glory.”
Previously, album covers were considered under the Best Recording Package category, but the Recording Academy has sought to highlight the significant role of cover art in today’s digital landscape. According to Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Academy, this split helps acknowledge artists who influence music beyond mere sound.
As the nominees reflect on their creative processes, photographer Neil Krug, who worked on Djo’s “The Crux,” emphasized the importance of visual storytelling in music. For Tyler, the Creator’s “Chromakopia,” the final cover shot featured a close-up portrait that perfectly captured his emotional expression, achieved through a collaborative language built over years of working together.
Perfume Genius’ cover for “Glory” deepens the exploration of duality in personal identity, representing the tension between introversion and public persona. The imagery, depicting the artist in a cozy yet vibrant environment, encapsulates the thematic push and pull present in his music.
In a striking editorial choice, Wet Leg’s cover art depicts a creature-like representation of Teasdale, embodying themes of love and feral instincts throughout the album. This visual choice was intentional, aimed at creating a visual experience that resonates with the album’s emotional landscape.
For Djo’s album cover, inspired by cinematic themes, the creative team focused on constructing a fictional hotel scene filled with dynamic action and characters. Every element, from the casting to the design of the neon sign, contributes to a cohesive narrative woven into the album’s identity.
Bad Bunny’s minimalist cover for “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” contrasts with other nominees by its simplicity, featuring familiar imagery that evokes nostalgia and a sense of connection to Caribbean culture. This sentiment underscores the storytelling aspect of the album, which cultural critics have noted as historically significant.
The nominees for Best Album Cover this year are all available in physical formats, such as vinyl or CD, which enhances their connection to the audience. Krug remarked on the intimacy of vinyl, suggesting that these physical objects inhabit personal spaces and resonate with listeners during significant life moments.
When considering the nominees, voters will assess creativity and design while also recognizing the contributions of photographers, illustrators, and graphic designers in creating the final visual product. Notably, edits to nomination lists have become common as the Academy addresses the complexities of this new award category.
Artists and creatives have expressed excitement about the recognition of cover art, with many appreciating the opportunity to innovate within this artistic realm. The 68th Grammy Awards will take place on February 1, 2026, celebrating the talent and creativity that shapes the music industry today.