UFO - Force it - Controversial Album Cover

UFO - Force it - Controversial Album Cover

Posted by Matt Lehman on Jul 28th 2023

UFO  - FORCE IT  -  Released in July 1975

Designed by Hipgnosis who was mostly comprised of Storm Thorgerson, Aubrey Powell and Peter christopherson.

Peter "sleazy" Christopherson formed the band, Throbbing Gristle, in 1975 as well.

Don't think you're familiar with Hipgnosis's work? I assure you that you are.  They did most of the UFO covers in the 70's, AC/DC's dirty deeds, T-rex's Electric Warrior,  Def Leppard's High n' Dry, Climax Chicago's Tightly Knit, Black Sabbath's Technical Ecstasy, and pretty much every Pink Floyd album cover ever.  That's actually how they got started and their name.  Hipgnosis was scrawled on their door by Syd Barrett.

  

The record execs had some concerns about the nudity on the cover or the imagery with the title and the early versions, especially in the US, had the couple appear almost invisible. Later re-issues showed the couple normal.  For many tear, no one knew who the models were or even their sex adding to the decency standards of the time. 

Later it was revealed that the models were Genesis P-orridge and Cosey Fanny Tutti who were also members of Throbbing Gristle, which begs the question, which came first...Throbbing Gristle or this photoshoot? 

The cover is art is actual a pun. For what you may ask?  Faucets.  Get it.  Force it....Faucet?  Hence all the faucets on the cover.