A Word from the Art Department

In 1994, my creative path changed because of an introduction to Randy Pratt. At the time, I knew I wanted to design for music in NYC—mostly because it seemed cool, maybe even a little rebellious. I had no idea I was about to step into a world that would shape the next three decades of my life. Randy, with his unstoppable imagination and momentum, opened the door and invited me along for the ride.

Running the “Art Department” for Hyperspace Records has meant years of collaborating with an incredible range of bands, musicians, photographers, and illustrators—all sparked by Randy’s trust, energy, and endless ideas.

I still remember the first time I met him. I was sitting in a graffiti-covered roadie truck on a date with Laddie, who was doing gig tech for the Mama Ray band at the time. Then Randy walked in—long red hair, spandex, platform shoes, fully committed. The rest of the band looked just as larger-than-life, total rockstars. What I didn’t realize then was that I was getting a glimpse into what would become “Electric Randyland”—a creative universe I’d soon be working inside.

It started with photocopied flyers for the Funky Knights in the early ’90s, graduating on to technicolor graphics for Vince Martell and Vanilla Fudge, press kits for Star People parties, and posters for The Lizards’ European tours. Frequenting shows in NYC, I began photographing the bands on stage as well as capturing some behind-the-scenes moments with acclaimed musicians. And naturally, there are the album covers—every project has carried Randy’s signature mix of boldness and heart. He doesn’t just write, perform, and produce music; he builds worlds around it. Thunderous bass lines, flamboyant style, ever-evolving bands filled with serious talent—he’s built something rare: a fiercely independent music empire that runs on imagination.

It has been my privilege to try to keep up. Randy has always pushed me past my comfort zone and into creative territory I wouldn’t have found on my own. Not many people get to spend 30 years working alongside someone who still surprises them, still raises the bar, still turns the volume up (to 11).

And somehow, here we are—still chasing what’s next at Hyperspace Records.

Here’s to the music, the art, and, of course, to Randy.