Assessment 2: Detailed Analysis - Contents Page (NME Magazine)

It is evident to the reader that this is the contents page, as it’s stated boldly on the colour choice of monochrome. The use of a black banner including the masthead establishes the magazine. The layout follows a basic, structured use of three columns. This is easier for the reader to use and navigate their way around the magazine. Underneath the contents, the date is shown like on the front cover to remind the reader how up to date the magazine is. The contents page is split up into different sections and subheadings so the reader can quickly find and access the page, which they may be looking for. 

The colour scheme follows that of the front cover, which keeps the magazine looking neat and uncluttered, this follows the colour scheme of; black, white and red. This relates to the genre of the magazine as its aimed towards an older audience. The page numbers are red so that they stand out from the rest.  Featured below the subheadings and article title’s is a caption, this caption gives the reader a brief insight on what the article will be about. ‘News’ tells the reader what is happening within the world of music or what their favourite bands and artists may be doing. ‘Radar’ informs the reader about upcoming acts. ‘Reviews’ is a feature on albums, singles and live sows. Finally, the subheading ‘Features’ reflects back onto the magazines front cover because if the reader isn’t a frequent reader of the NME, they will have simply bought the magazine for the features of the front cover.

To the left of the contents list, is a feature on the Arctic Monkeys. This is the main image of the page and is the largest. This gives the reader the impression that this is the main feature of the issue and relates back to the front cover. Like the rest of the page, it sticks to the simple yet bold colour scheme and shows a longer caption and a bigger page number. Like the main feature, another thing the magazine does is make this part of the contents stand out from the rest by including it inside of a red arrow. To the right of the page is a ‘band index’ that like the contents, gives the reader easier access to the page which they want to see that will feature a band they like. This also helps attract more readers, as there will be a band everyone will like from any genre of music.

An advertisement is located at the bottom of the contents page. The magazine changes the use of colours to make it stand out to the reader. It follows a scheme of black, white and yellow (unlike the typical colour scheme of black, white and red.)  The use of the advertisement is relevant as it will be one of the things which the reader sees and will therefore be aware of the subscription service that the NME has to offer.