Our studio playlist: music to fuel your creativity

Oasis have made a strong comeback in the studio, mostly thanks to the reunion tour hype. There’s a definite wave of nostalgia that’s hard to ignore, and it turns out those big choruses still hit. They’ve been a solid go-to when we want something familiar with a bit of energy. Lucy (our account executive) even managed to get tickets, which is either impressive dedication or sheer luck considering how fast they sold out.

Frank Turner has been played a lot this year. His mix of acoustic, punk and a bit of grit gives everything a steady pace. It’s music that sits nicely in the background, but you still catch yourself nodding along. A safe choice when no one can decide what to put on next. Victor (one of our designers) has seen him live fifteen times, which is edging into restraining order territory, but it does mean we never run out of Frank Turner tracks.

Taylor is still the most debated artist in the studio. Half of us love her, half would rather skip to the next song. The new album has been a frequent topic of conversation, though not always in a good way. It’s fair to say she’s not the house favourite, but she keeps showing up on the playlist regardless.

The Monkeys are always popular in the studio. ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not’ still sounds just as good now as it did when it came out. It’s the sort of album that works on any day, relaxed enough for background listening but with enough rhythm to keep things moving.

Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Espresso’ was unavoidable this year, and we’re still not quite done with it. It’s catchy, upbeat and impossible to ignore, which makes it a solid option when the studio needs a bit of a lift. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but no one’s skipping it either.

There are a lot of 2000s punk fans in the studio, so The Killers are an absolute staple. ‘Mr Brightside’ comes on regularly and somehow never gets old. Their mix of big choruses and nostalgic energy fits perfectly with the general mood in the studio.

Magdalena Bay have been played a fair bit this year. ‘Imaginal Disc’ has become a real favourite, but the new album’s starting to take over too. It’s smooth, electronic and slightly spacey, perfect for background music that still feels interesting. Their sound fits the mood for long design sessions really well.

Fleetwood Mac are one of those bands that never really leave the playlist. ‘The Chain’ still sounds incredible, and their older albums get a fair bit of play too. It’s easy listening without feeling dull, classic songs that fill the studio nicely without getting in the way.

Jungle are a regular pick, especially when we’re all working quietly. Their chill, dancey sound blends in perfectly and gives everything a good rhythm. It’s ideal background music for a busy studio, enough groove to keep it lively but not too distracting.

Tame Impala have been on repeat lately, especially since the release of the new album. That clean, layered sound fills the space really well and seems to suit almost any time of day. It’s calm, detailed and easy to get lost in while working, which makes it an easy favourite at the moment.

Lucy: Lose my Mind – Jamie Jones, Connie Constance
Scott: Where is my mind – Pixies
Victor: Cutthroat – Shame
Cameron: Grand prix – Nala Sinephro
Matt: You in January – The Wonder Years
Luke: Runnin’ – The Pharcyde
Ollie: Body Heat – binki
Jo: Jump – Blackpink