Album Artwork Design – Michael Jacob Rinzel: Preserve Your Memories

New York-based musician Mike Rinzel discovered my work online and was instantly captivated by my 60s and 70s retro psychedelic illustration style. He was seeking unique album artwork to accompany his heartfelt Simon & Garfunkel tribute recordings, and my bold visual storytelling aligned perfectly with his nostalgic musical journey.

Together—despite the transatlantic time zone difference—we collaborated closely to develop a cohesive visual narrative that honored the spirit of Simon & Garfunkel while injecting a fresh, funky energy. We began with concept sketches and moodboards, diving deep into the emotional tones and lyrical themes of the songs. I listened to his recordings, discussed his vision, and began crafting custom psychedelic illustrations that referenced 60s folk aesthetics, nature symbolism, and vintage poster art.

Each panel of the artwork evolved organically, infused with hand-drawn patterns, trippy colours, and subtle nods to Simon & Garfunkel’s storytelling. As we built a visual sequence across the cover, animals originally requested by Mike took on symbolic roles, reflecting the quirks and moods of his musical journey. The final design became more than just an album cover—it became a visual experience.

Results & Impact
Delivered bespoke psychedelic album artwork that visually narrates the emotional arc of Mike Rinzel’s Simon & Garfunkel tribute album

Seamlessly merged retro 70s aesthetics with modern digital illustration techniques

Overcame international collaboration barriers with clear communication, time-sensitive project management, and creative synergy

Strengthened Mike’s personal music brand through iconic, eye-catching design that stood out across platforms

This project is a proud testament to how bold psychedelic illustration, rooted in emotion and era-specific inspiration, can elevate a musical project into a multi-sensory experience.