As someone that works in a creative field I draw inspiration from many different places depending on the project. At Dashboard we scour the Internet, reference books and even wander the streets of Toronto to find inspiration, but sometimes the inspiration I look for isn’t always visual. One thing that does stand true to everything I have ever done is when I sit down to create there is always a soundtrack. I have somewhat of a catalogue in my head of what albums go with what projects I’ve worked on. The list is always ever changing as I discover new things but for now I have put together my top 5 go to albums for creative inspiration.
1. Thrice: The Alchemy Index vol I & II.
This is one of my favourite albums of all time (the vinyl hanging framed in my apartment can attest to that), a 4 disc set each related to one of the four elements: Fire, Water, Earth and Air. The diversity between each of the discs is amazing each doing a fantastic job representing each given element. This is one of the only albums I’ve ever heard that I can paint a visual picture in my mind for each song; the water disc always blows me away. Definitely a go to record to get the creative juices flowing.
2. Foo Fighters: Wasting Light
I really could not have been more excited for the release of this record. It has been a long time since anyone has release just a pure, all out rock n’ roll album and the idea that this was recorded in a garage on tape just made it even better. This is definitely a go to once you get rolling whether building comps or sketching and idea from the opening track to the last this is audible motivation to create.
3. Bob Marley: Kaya
What can I say about this album, it’s a classic. Working in a high stress environment this is always something that has been able to calm my nerves and allow me to think clearly in the midst of utter chaos. This one has definitely been a great tool for channeling my mind to focus on the task at hand. This album should be in everyone’s collection, nothing but good vibes.
4. Deftones: Saturday Night Wrist
When I first heard this album I must admit I didn’t really like it but it was something that really grew on me. It’s funny I find some of the greatest records I own I actually didn’t like after the first listen. This either usually means it sucks or it’s something that really takes a few runs through to truly appreciate its value and creativity (Vheissu by Thrice also falls in this category, not on the list but awesome nonetheless). Heavy rifts but slow and melodic this one always puts me in good creative zone. This is another one much like The Alchemy Index that can paint pictures in my head.
5. Sublime: 40oz to Freedom
What can I say about this one, its been with me for over 15 years now, I can’t even count how many times I’ve bought this CD and worn it out (I think I’m on number 5). The innovators of some of the coolest style mashing (reggae, punk, dub, dance hall and ska) on the planet. This album always puts me in a good mood and a great creative space. It gets me excited as soon as the first track opens and suddenly I’m ready to jump into just about any project that’s come my way, from my high school days to my professional career. This album will be one that will stay with me forever that’s for sure.
I know for a fact there is many other creative types that always attach a soundtrack to projects they work on and it’s definitely something that has always helped me creatively. Whether my musical taste is to your liking or not I think we can all agree that looking outside the realm of just visuals is an important aspect to getting inspired. If you dig this list or if I’ve piqued your sonic interest, check out some choice cuts from each album below.
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