After a discussion with a fellow member of my course the issue was raised about the legibility of the type when a colour gradient is used, and wether or not it is entirely necessary. This is a more than valid point and one that needs to be tested to get an obvious result.
To analysis this issue i will print off one 5 ampersand booklet form the gradient fill and a solid black fill, along with the contributing ad cards. Hopefully by haivng both competing infront of my eyes i will be able to make the decision for which one to choose.