Interview by Mia Lopez -
"It is the art that adds some sophistication and dimension to the entire X7 experience." Michael goes on to explain." One purpose of the art is to add depth to the musical experience. The art in this situation is similar to a film score but in reverse."
The 28 page lyric and art booklet that accompanies the music cd contains artwork and lyrics for each track of the 11 tracks, as well as band photos. The booklet gives the audience plenty to take in lyrically and artistically, a feast for the eyes. Michael continues, "The art is not a literal interpretation of each track's lyric. This allows the audience to have their own interpretation of the lyrics without things being spelled out for them visually. Like the music, the art for the booklet has some diversity but not so much as to look inconsistent or unfocused. The package design for the cd was intended to have a mysterious appearance on the outside so as to draw the viewer in and instill curiousity. As the viewer opens the package, things unfold and have more depth. My goal for the lyric and art booklet was to have it stand on its own as a single statement and not have to rely on the music to be a complete experience within itself. In a sense, I wanted it to act independently as a poetry book with a work of art for each poem."
"We have received many questions and comments regarding the artwork. In fact, some people asked if we were a christian rock band based on the artwork alone. My reply to them was 'maybe we are, maybe we're not'. As with the music, we are not interested in disclosing any information regarding the concepts and ideas behind any of the imagery."
Like everything in the X7 project, all of the artwork was produced at design co. studios under the direction of Michael A. Kraus. Please note: The examples pictured at right are cropped versions of the entire works. The entire uncropped versions are contained within the 28 page art and lyric booklet that accompanies the X7 cd.
