Slab Contrasted Ismo 1 is a bold, narrow, low contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Rama Slab' by Dharma Type, 'FF DIN Slab' by FontFont, 'Hefring Slab' by Inhouse Type, 'Vin Slab Pro' by Mint Type, 'LFT Etica Sheriff' by TypeTogether, and 'Palo Slab' by TypeUnion (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, posters, packaging, signage, mastheads, industrial, western, editorial, assertive, heritage, impact, space-saving, authority, display, blocky, bracketed, square serifs, compressed, sturdy.
A compact slab serif with heavy, squared-off serifs and a tight overall stance. Strokes are robust with only modest modulation, producing dense, dark text color and strong vertical emphasis. Terminals and serifs read as blunt, rectangular slabs, with slightly bracketed joins in places and crisp interior counters. The lowercase keeps a workmanlike rhythm with sturdy bowls and short ascenders/descenders, while the numerals are similarly compact and built for impact.
Well suited to headlines, posters, and mastheads where a strong, compact slab serif is needed. It can also work for packaging, labels, and signage that benefit from a sturdy, print-forward look, especially in short bursts of copy or display settings.
The tone is tough and utilitarian, evoking traditional print, industrial labeling, and a hint of Western poster vernacular. Its compact weight and emphatic slabs feel confident and authoritative, with a no-nonsense, headline-forward personality.
The design appears intended to deliver a high-impact slab serif voice in a space-efficient width, combining blunt serifs and compact proportions for bold display typography with a traditional print sensibility.
At text sizes the dense color and tight proportions create a commanding presence, while the squared serifs and compressed forms keep word shapes compact. The overall impression prioritizes solidity and punch over delicacy or airiness.