![]() ![]() You might notice your head nodding during the faster tracks, but you’ll be focused and engaged enough to reach your word count before too long. Although ranging from ambient to full-on acid techno, the transitions are so smooth that it is never intrusive or jarring. Although later iconic cuts like “Windowlicker” and “Come to Daddy” are far from suitable background music, James’ 1992 debut album is another story. ![]() James, better known by his monikers Aphex Twin and AFX, has explored - and arguably invented - many diverse styles of electronica over his long career, from beatless soundscapes to punishing, glitchy drum and bass. Aphex Twin - Selected Ambient Works 85–92 (1992) Fukui’s warm, melodic playing is distinctive without being distracting, and the steady rhythm section provides a gently urgent momentum. Ryo Fukui - Scenery (1976)Īnother initially obscure release that now has a cult following from YouTube, Scenery by Japanese jazz pianist and composer Ryo Fukui gives a similar vibe to the previous album on the list comforting yet sprightly. It also reminds me to water the peace lily on my writing desk, which is always a bonus. ![]() While the efficacy of this is up for debate, the record’s soothing, warm analog synths certainly help nourish my creativity and allow ideas to grow. On its initial release, it was only available to purchasers of either a houseplant from LA store Mother Earth or a particular mattress from department store Sears! An early work of experimental electronic composition, the album was designed to be played to plants to help them grow. This lost gem from composer Mort Garson has experienced a bit of a revival in the last couple of years due to a helpful boost from YouTube’s “Recommended For You” algorithm. Mort Garson - Mother Earth’s Plantasia (1976) I’ve omitted anything too minimal and discreet (sorry Brian Eno), as well as anything too frenetic or erratic (that means no intricate free jazz, pounding hardstyle, or extreme mathcore). In terms of style, moderate tempos, plenty of repetition, and pretty textures make up my preferred recipe for a great writing soundtrack. This isn’t a list of the best albums of their genres - although you could make a case for some - more a personally curated selection of my go-to choices for writing to.Īs vocals can confuse the writing process (hearing someone speak/sing words while trying to write your own is like having two conversations at once!), these picks are primarily instrumental. ![]() So, what records are best to soundtrack your working day? Here, I’ll delve into ten of my favorites, in no particular order. Why not experience an artist’s work in the perfect format - the LP album - while you work? There are only so many times you can put on Spotify’s Work From Home playlists, or “ lofi beats to relax/study to”, before you crave something new. As thrilling as it is to see a punk band thrash out a sweaty set, or to set the mood for a summer evening barbecue with some classic hip-hop, when it comes to choosing a soundtrack for a productive session of article pitching or a late-night rush to get those last few hundred words down before deadline, something else is probably in order. I learned in my school days battling through essays how music can not only make long writing sessions more enjoyable, but can also make me write faster and better.Īs a music writer, I’m passionate (read: obsessed) about both music and writing - although not all of the music I love is conducive to getting work done. If you need to get a lot of words down quickly, you may need another approach. However, there isn’t always time to leave your desk, especially if you have a deadline fast approaching. You’ve probably heard how a coffee break or a walk outside can give you the motivation to finish writing, or even sudden fresh-air-induced flashes of creative inspiration. Sitting at your computer (or typewriter if you prefer a retro writing experience) for hours on end can lead to frustration, burnout, and the dreaded writer’s block. Whether you’re writing an essay, a blog post, or a novel, it can be tricky to keep focused. ![]()
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