A type specimen is an intensive case study on a typeface. Before the web, this was the only way to correctly present a typeface and its detail. I chose Mistral, as it’s incredibly controversial in the design world for its overuse and wide-debate over proper presentation. My hope was to shed light on the controversy, and also respond to this debate within my design, possibly bringing back some love to the now-hated font.

In summary, Mistral’s use on the NWA Cover for “Straight Outta Compton” inspired large-scale conversation over its presentation, as the typeface is shown in all-capital letters. Because Roger Excoffon designed the font to be used in normal case and be a representation of sophistication, it was widely said NWA’s design was improper. I disagreed this is improper as typography is a tool, and it is up to the designer to decide how they would like to use it.

Therefore, in reaction to this controversy and my personal opinion on the debate, the design of this type specimen is inspired by NWA’s album “Straight Outta Compton,” per the iconic “misuse” on the cover.