14 albums to amp up work-from-home vibes

Genre: Lounge pop
How it feels: An evening at a swanky cocktail bar

The beloved rock band’s 2018 album is a worthy comeback after the acclaimed maximalist album AM. Hotel & Casino tones down the band’s head-banging aesthetics for more chill tunes that sound best when you’re unwinding at a bar in a legit five-star hotel. We dare say that some songs are even reminiscent of those jingles that accompany long elevator rides.

Tune in to: “Four Out of Five”, “She Looks Like Fun”, “Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino”

Genre: Electronica
How it feels: An afternoon of carefree browsing in a record shop

Electronica may be an unlikely booster for when you need to focus on work, but this collection by much-respected Canadian musician Dan Snaith grips you tightly and eases the mind with its well-balanced sonic elements. Expect big drops and smooth instrumentals.

Tune in to: “You and I”, “Home”, “Like I Loved You”

Genre: Country
How it feels: A chillax morning with a good cuppa

Formerly known as The Dixie Chicks, this country trio returned to the music scene after a 14-year hiatus with the release of Gaslighter. In this new album, their signature country sound is tweaked with contemporary aspects, resulting in both hard-hitting bangers and sentimental ballads. It’s a record that country music lovers would enjoy during office hours.

Tune in to: “Gaslighter”, “Sleep at Night”, “March March”

Genre: Bedroom pop
How it feels: An easy-breezy afternoon in a hip café

Clairo is a 22-year-old rising star who makes music that perfectly defines the concept of “music to work to”. Her whispery soft voice goes smoothly with lo-fi tunes that won’t distract you from concentrating on a hard task. If you’re one of those who loves to work in a hipster café, then this album ticks all the boxes.

Tune in to: “Bags”, “Sofia”, “I Wouldn’t Ask”

Genre: Disco pop
How it feels: A blow-out party in an 80’s-themed nightclub

Future Nostalgia helped turn Dua Lipa into a certified pop star and brought about a disco revival. The whole LP is packed with pop bangers that will turn your lifeless home office into a burning dance floor.

Tune in to: “Physical”, “Break My Heart”, “Levitating”

Genre: Alternative rock
How it feels: A sunny day strolling in the city

This third studio output by the Haim sisters was one of the most critically acclaimed records of 2020—and we don’t question why. Song lyrics may tackle strong issues like gender prejudice, but the melodies embrace you like warm sunlight shining through your home office’s windows.

Tune in to: “I Know Alone”, “Don’t Wanna”, “Now I’m in It”

Genre: Pop
How it feels: Being in a fun and emotional concert

Fine Line by heartthrob Harry Styles, with its catchy hooks and fantastic melodies, is one of the most radio-friendly picks on this list. The album is a safe choice for those who aren’t too bothered by sing-along sentiments and wish to turn their office into a pop concert even for a moment.

Tune in to: “Lights Up”, “Watermelon Sugar”, “Treat People with Kindness”

Genre: Electronica
How it feels: A blurry night in the company of the happy plant

James Blake is known as a wizard of the music industry, with his ability to craft music that sounds highly mysterious, at the same time magical. Blake’s experimental take on trap and hip-hop makes Assume Form sound so dope (and feel like dope). Turning this up while working could potentially hypnotize you to work very well.

Tune in to: “Mile High”, “Can't Believe the Way We Flow”, “Assume Form”

Genre: Soft rock
How it feels: A trip on an expensive cruise ship

Lana deviates from her usual sadcore music to release this acclaimed record that’s brimming with brighter, happier notes. The atmospheric elements and Lana’s angelic voice combined lights up the room. It’s highly recommended for a hard day at work when calming tunes are all you need.

Tune in to: “Norman F**king Rockwell!”, “F**k it I love you / The greatest”, “hope is a dangerous thing for a woman like me to have - but i have it”

Genre: Hip-hop
How it feels: A wild night-out

You may have to work hard during the day, but that doesn’t mean you can’t put on some hip-hop bangers to spice things up. Put on this acclaimed record by hot girl Megan Thee Stallion and work it out like you’re preparing for a fierce night in town.

Tune in to: “Don’t Stop”, “Savage Remix”, “Don't Rock Me to Sleep”

Genre: R&B
How it feels: A leisurely wander around a flower garden

There’s no album at the moment that could teleport you to a hothouse of brilliant blooms like DEACON. serpentwithfeet is an R&B singer from Brooklyn who uses his sugar-coated voice to narrate stories of love. If you have a soft spot for harmonious and dream-like melodies, this one is a must.

Tune in to: “Hyacinth”, “Same Size Shoe”, “Amir”

Genre: Psychedelic rock
How it feels: A lucid, adventurous dream

If you’re a fan of music that creates a whole new space of experience, then you can’t miss this classic collection by the one and only Tame Impala. The multi-dimensional layers of each track will suck you into a different world where you and your work become one. Er, we mean the music will help you focus really well!

Tune in to: “Let It Happen”, “The Less I Know the Better”, “New Person, Same Old Mistakes”

Genre: Indie folk
How it feels: A relaxing day at a spa

Miss Swift’s eighth studio album is a 180-degree shift from her usual larger-than-life poptastic tunes. This latest offering focuses on mellow acoustic sounds and lilting piano riffs that make every track on the LP feel like a sip of hot tea. Every song will definitely soothe away your worries.

Tune in to: “the 1”, “mad woman”, “exile”

Genre: Funk
How it feels: A long drive with an open sunroof

This Michigan-based funk band has amassed a cult following for upbeat tunes that evoke images of bright sunshine and clear blue skies. Play this album in the background, and you’ll probably be unconsciously bopping your head while replying to emails.

Tune in to: “Back Pocket”, “Smile Meditation”, “Game Winner”