Hardbop is a typeface inspired by jazz, particularly the style from which it takes its name, “Hardbop.” It also draws inspiration from Reid Miles’ prolific graphic design work for Blue Note Records album covers in the 1950s, Japanese jazz album covers from the 1970s, and hand-painted, condensed, and grotesque posters.
Hardbop also draws on classic typefaces such as Impact, Bebas, DIN, Frontage, and TT Trailers—the latter in the exaggeration of certain features such as counterforms and terminals.
The Hardbop typeface works very well for headlines and large layouts, and was designed specifically for album covers and posters, where it is meant to make a bold statement. Although it is a small typeface family, it offers many creative possibilities thanks to its extensive character set.