CR Blog
Food for Thoughts: Studio Survey
Posted by Patrick Burgoyne, 3 December 2008, 14:20 Permalink Comments (50)
Following Mark's previous post on new research into the foods and music that are most conducive to creativity, there was a suggestion in the comments that it would be interesting to find out what designers and creatives currently do. So go on then, tell us...
We want to know the following vital information:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
If so, what's on your current playlist?
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
We need your help to conduct this important piece of research, so please add your contributions in the comments below. Special prize to the first killjoy to harumph along the lines of "haven't you got anything more serious to think about" etc etc
50 Comments
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Cake from the local bratisserie. Croissants. Laugenbrötchen. Bretzel. Bannanas. Apples.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Biscuits. Bratwurst. Sauerkraut. Tomatoes and cheese. Salads. A good wiener schnitzel.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
PG Tips or Coffee (normally Lavazza in the studio).
Do you have music in the studio?
Often.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Right this minute: Fleet Foxes, Apparat, UNKLE, Depeche Mode, Talking Heads, The Smiths, Shadowhuntaz, José González, Portishead, Amon Tobin, Mettalica, Mogwai, Radiohead, David Bowie and JoyDevision.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
No.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
10–15:00 = 3, 15:00–19:00 = 4, 19–00:00 = 10. (subject to given situation on day.)
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Depends on project at hand. On average, Down.
2008-12-03 14:58:11
Music:
dance/electro music with no lyrics is good for drive as it's got the pace and energy without any of the distracting lyrics. Something like Justice for example, but a long constant mix is best.
Tea to keep me going, but coffee if I've got about an hour til deadline. After that my mind has used up all it's special powers. milk and one in each if you must know!
2008-12-03 15:02:59
From Matt Pyke at Universal Everything:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Wasabi Peas
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Cadburys Boost with Glucose
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Peppermint in the mornings
Camomille in the evenings
Do you have music in the studio?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
hermeto pascoal
max tundra
ECM Records back catalogue
Ricardo Villalobos
Robert Wyatt
Busta Rhymes
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
No
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
4 - 9
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up
Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 15:06:59
From Armin Vit at Under Consideration:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Muffins, cookies, grapes.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Chocolate, cup cakes, fuji apple
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Coffee, Starbucks Espresso home-brewed in the morning, Celestial Seasonings
Apple Cinnamon tea in the afternoon
Do you have music in the studio?
No. The ear buds come for production tasks.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Oldies but goodies: Metallica, Pearl Jam, Café Tacuba.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
11 for production tasks, 0 for everything else.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up, again, if it requires production Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 15:11:55
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Bourbons & chocolate chip cookies
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Bourbons & chocolate chip cookies
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Fresh coffee
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Being in a large studio we use AirTunes so a variety is played ranging from alternative rock, minimal techno and the odd bit of Dubstep.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Last FM artist stations include:
- Dubfire
- Erol Alkan
- Herbaliser
- Muse
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Depressing tracks from Radiohead.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
4
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up.
2008-12-03 15:24:59
From Anne Brassier at Airside:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
We don't usually serve snacks in meetings to be honest (unless they're going to be long) – fruit and a quality biscuit now and then perhaps.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
We try to be good and so have a large fruitbowl available at all times. But cake does get the better of us now and then.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Both. Tea – everything from builders to Sencha Bancha from the higher slopes of Japan. Coffee – strong black in a cafetiere. Fairtrade naturally.
Do you have music in the studio?
Not very often, sometimes on a Friday afternoon to herald in the weekend. Woohoo!
If so, what¹s on your current playlist?
Whatever Henki chooses as at the moment we don't have speakers through the studio; disco, easy listening, hiphop, French crooners...
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Absolutely not.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
8
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 15:25:20
Interesting subject - the relationship between music and creativity. For a (mainly) American perspective - have a look here:
http://www.designobserver.com/archives/entry.html?id=35704
2008-12-03 15:32:52
We want to know the following vital information:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Milk chocolate digestives if your lucky!
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Fishfinger Butty.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
You only get an ooo with tetley!
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Impossible to answer very varied tastes - rock n roll to hip-hop! I have a self compiled soundtrack playlist which I have compiled and sift through that to see what music would go well with video footage/artwork! Also listen to BBC i-player if I want human interaction. Seminars if Im being really pretentious!
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Death metal is banned for within a 10 mile radius!
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
6-10 depending on the song!
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Doesn't effect my habits at all!
2008-12-03 15:41:38
From Simon Piehl, Bureau for Visual Affairs:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
absolutely no corporate hospitality, as you well know, Patrick
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Carbohydrates, in whatever form - maybe Pizza
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea, no milk and one sugar
Do you have music in the studio?
yes, most of the time
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
a changing mix of Jazz, Metal and Classical
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
I have an issue with R&B
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
3
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
down Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 15:44:16
From Jonathan Ellery, Browns Design:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
We don't give clients biscuits. In the studio we like Chocolate Digestives,
Hob Nobs and Rich Tea
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Maynard's Wine Gums, Fruit Pastilles. In Winter we like ice creams and
Ice lollies, the favourite being Magnums
Tea or coffee? What kind?
PG Tips and Tesco Roast and Ground Coffee.
Do you have music in the studio?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
It's all over the place...
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
None.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
4
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
In the evenings it goes up lots. Goes up to 6. Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 15:45:50
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Chocolate Chip Cookies / Home made cake
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Strong, sugary "builders" tea!
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Anything with a groove and/or a guitar, Chemical Brothers, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Stone Roses
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Crap music...
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
9 and a half
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up
2008-12-03 15:47:27
From Michael C. Place, Build:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
We tend to be seasonal with our snacks, so mince pies at the moment.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Mars Bar.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea - Yorkshire Tea. Coffee - Lavazza.
Do you have music in the studio?
Yes.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Flying Lotus, Dosh, The Field, Fuck Buttons, Arab Strap, Strategy, Dusk + Blackdown, Two Lone Swordsmen, Radioactive Man, Woob, Eno...
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Happy Hardcore, Christian Rap & Handbag House.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
During the day - 4. When by myself - 11.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up + Down. Gavin Lucas
2008-12-03 15:57:04
From Tony Brook at Spin:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
The classic chocolate digestive is a favourite - but we'll go off
piste sometimes - maybe with a selection box.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
We have a well stocked fruit and we have tea and cake at 4.00 everyday
- it's a tradition now - it gives you a lift at just the right time.
Although the more health conscious of us might only try a half a slice.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
I tend to go for varietirs of fruity tea I'm partial to mint as well.
Do you have music in the studio?
Pretty much all the time. Although I can even enjoy silence now.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Dad rock - nothing to do with me.
Not Christopher Cross! Yes, even Christopher Cross - ride like the wind.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
I think the answer to the last question might give you a clue - sadly,
no.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
3 - 6. I like it loud but I understand it can get annoying.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down. Anybody has the right to turn it down if it is getting too much. Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 15:58:21
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
• Currently on the menu are ; the classic custard cream, the bourbon and ginger snaps. Nothing fancy (ever).
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
• Chips and Gravy or Pizza
Tea or coffee? What kind?
• Coffee until around 14.00 (which is fair trade, despite Chris Martins antics), then tea in the afternoons.
Do you have music in the studio?
• Yes. Without it all manor of 'small studio' noises can be heard. Which are off putting and embarrassing.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
• Currently this week we have loved; Humphrey Lyttelton, Santogold, Talking Heads and Adam & Joe podcasts. A good morning play was Susumu Yakota’s Grinning Cat.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
• Shouty/Bleepy/bangy/ but exceptions are made if its a good specimen of the genre.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
• Ranges between 4 and 9.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
• UP, but the music is more select. John Barry is standard, but we love film scores generally for the deadline drive.
2008-12-03 16:01:08
From Ian at Studio Output:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Generally none, unfortunately! Although if I could choose it would be either custard cremes or viennese biscuits
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
In the studio, maybe apples?
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea and Coffee. Builders Tea or Latte
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes, I think it would be weird not having music on.
If so, what's on your current playlist?
Not sure, we do put 'Last fm' on lots.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
None, although we'd like to ban 'Dan's Heavy Metal moments'. To be honest if you were asking anyone else they'd probably say anything I put on.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
6
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
down Mark Sinclair
2008-12-03 16:12:57
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Lots of lovely crisps. The trashier the better. Wotsits and frazzles are winners. And a nice bit of toast...
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
No so much food, more a mid-afternoon cigarette or three... though sometimes it's got to be cake...
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Coffee. Real, not instant. Whatever's on offer in the shop, 'cause the Management don't treat us...
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Out loud, no (we're a room of writers). On my mac, yes.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
All sorts. Currently liking Neil Young, Nick Cave, Kanye, vanilla-dinner party music in the school of Zero 7 and a random nigerian soul singer called Asa.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Music is generaly banned, though it's an Unspoken Rule.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
0 for the room, 7 in my head
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up, up, up...
2008-12-03 16:15:03
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Chocy Digestives, & the king of biscuits... Ginger Nuts!
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Pot noodle, Miso Soup.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Pret Latte, Earl Grey Tea, Assam tea, & Minty Tea too!
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Oh Yes.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Springsteen of course, Neil Young, Art Brut, Television, TV on the Radio, LowGold! & Alex likes Morrisey.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Morrisey.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Mid Table
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Off.
2008-12-03 16:21:45
From Robert Ball, The Partners:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
You can judge a client by the quality of their snacks. One of the perks of working for The National Gallery – forget the centuries of priceless culture that adorn the walls – is the quality of their biscuits. Big as dinner plates.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Berocca - not only does it give you an energy boost, but as everyone knows it turns your wee flourescent.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Both. In separate cups, mind. On a slow afternoon we decided to make tea in the kettle rather than a pot and put tea bags in, milk, the lot. It broke the kettle and we all had grey bubbly tea.
Do you have music in the studio?
Constantly. Until someone does a throat slit mime which means they're on the phone to a client who might not appreciate the subtle nuances of Chinese Democracy.
If so, what¹s on your current playlist?
'Current' seems like such a quaint idea for the itunes generation. We seem to have the entire history of recorded sound on our itunes, an impossible amount of choice – and yet – as it takes you the best part of an afternoon to scroll from A to Z, there never seems anything you actually feel like listening to on it.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
There's nothing worse than a dismal reception to a treasured album. Consequently, we tend to run the musical spectrum from indie rock right all the way to indie dance.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Eighties compilations 8, folk and rock 4, Snow Patrol 0
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up in volume and BPM. Though that might be the Berocca kicking in. Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 16:42:26
From Scott King:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
- I've become partial to anything by Tunnocks
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
- Same as above, sadly.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
- Coffee in a morning, the strong Lavazza stuff. Earl Gay tea in an afternoon.
Do you have music in the studio?
- a lot of Hawkwind at the moment.
If so, what¹s on your current playlist?
- As above.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
- All pretend punk from the last three dacades.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
- 5.5.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
- down Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 16:43:55
From Dan Witchell, Proud Creative:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Rarely any.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Millionaires shortbread from Basil on Kingsland Road.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Builders and the Earl or strong fair trade coffee.
Do you have music in the studio?
Yes.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Cat Power, Beck, Koushik, Nick Drake, Boards of Canada, Radiohead, Midlake, Whitest Boy Alive, Tommy Guerrero and Four Tet.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Happy hardcore.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
4 or 5.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Either off or loud, depending on stress levels. Gavin Lucas
2008-12-03 16:55:26
From Nicholas Felton:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
- Coffee tends to be the only accompaniment that has a chance of
appearing at a meeting.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
- Primarily coffee. Very occasionally a banana bread or poppyseed
treat makes an appearance with the coffee.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
- Coffee. With milk.
Do you have music in the studio?
- Yes. Constantly.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
- This week, Flying Lotus, Daedelus, Dr. Dooom and Percussion Lab
mixes from Kper, Caural and Machine Drum.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
- Crooning saxophone is not allowed.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
- Generally 4–6.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
- Up. Gavin Lucas
2008-12-03 17:00:18
From Katia, Studio Von Birken:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
baked goods or russisch brot - german cookies
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
sweet or salty. chocolate
Tea or coffee? What kind?
coffee & cappuccino
Do you have music in the studio?
yes - but not always. it depends on the project & if we work alone or with assistants/interns.
more music if surrounded by people.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
tiga podcast whenever possible, the chromatics. sebastian tellier. the knife.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
rock. heavy metal. anything like that. soft rock. anything that makes you think of fringed white leather jackets.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
5
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
down Gavin Lucas
2008-12-03 18:03:35
We want to know the following vital information:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
– Pret Ham Cheese and tomato Croissants & half the stock of Tinderbox depending how long,/ boring the meeting is likely to be.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
– Double Decker (although trying to cut that out), dipping into the occasionally fully-stocked fruit bowl, hummous and pitta, 'fun' size chocolates that the delivery man brings, after 4pm – BEER!
Tea or coffee? What kind?
– 10am-12pm: Three coffees (Nespresso)
– 12am-4.30pm: Five Teas (any)
It used to be easy to make a round of hot bevvys, but suddenly this year everyone has developed some kind of intolerance or special preparation requirement, which makes it a royal pain in the arse.
– 4.30 onwards: Beer (red stripe), no intolerance or special preparation requirement needed for the beer
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Constantly, we have a ridiculous turn over of music
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
– Meanest Man Contest – Madlib (a lot of) – White Denim – Free Blood – School of Seven Bells – Hudson Mohawke – Friendly Fires – Beck – various DFA records – Heat Sensor – Carlos Nino & Lil' Sci Are What's the Science? – Michael Nyman – Minotaur Shock – James Pants – Lukid – Lusine – Nathan Fake – Juno OST – Flying Lotus – Octopus Project – Lymbic System – Kelp – Michna – Tunng – TV on the Radio – Tycho – XLR8R Podcast Scuba 10245 Dubstep Mix – All things Matthew Dear Mix
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
– R&b, jazz, most pop, any house with vocals, metal... lots of opinions = lots of objections, defo not anything played on daytime radio
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Varies depending on the majority state of mind in the studio. Generally 7 though.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
– If it's in the day, down. If it's all aboard the night train. Up, Hyperactively up!
2008-12-03 18:57:44
you are all liars
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LISTEN TO KRUDER + DORFMEISTER AND SIGUR ROS
ON REPEAT
2008-12-03 21:02:10
Must of been on repeat for the last eight years then!
2008-12-03 22:09:57
From Ben Stott, NB: Studio:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Fruit & croissants for early morning meetings - nothing for afternoon usually.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Biscuits during the day - the most chocolate covered available.
Cakes from Konditor & Cook on special occasions.
American Hot pizzas at night.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
The orders are usually for builders, chai, peppermint, green and then double espresso cappuccino.
Do you have music in the studio?
Oh yes!
If so, what?s on your current playlist?
Most played recently and on heavy rotation:
Hercules and Love Affair: Hercules and Love Affair
Fabriclive36: James Murphy & Pat Mahoney
Kings of Leon: Only by the Night
Lykke Li: Youth Novel
MIA: Kala
The Darjeeling Limited Soundtrack
LCD Soundsystem: Sound of Silver
Colder: Colder
The Black Keys: Attack & Release
The Police: Reggatta de Blanc
Nick Drake: Way to Blue
Badmarsh & Shri: Dancing Drums
Balkan Beat Box: Balkan Beat Box
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Some people would like to think the following are banned: Heavy Metal, R&B, Christian Rock, anything from a Musical.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
6
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up, up, up then down, down, down. Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-03 22:25:29
Drew @ Leo Burnett
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Sandwiches, mostly. Often cookies.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Dried fruit and a steady intake of all sorts of energy bars.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Coffee, black.
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Glass Candy, Gang Gang Dance, Burial, Fennesz, Deerhunter, Eric Dolphy and pretty much anything from Kompakt or DFA.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Don't think so... at least, nobody's telling me.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
5
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Five years ago: Way up. Now: Way, way down.
2008-12-04 00:24:19
We want to know the following vital information:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Pocky (the Japanese sticks covered in all manner of sweet and savory gunk)
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Some roasted sweet potatoes from the sweet potato roasting man on the end of our lane. Or some wonton noodles delivered to the studio
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea either earl grey or long jing cha
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
yes always
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Thom Yorke - The Eraser, What's Going On - Marvin Gaye, Hard Fi, Hot Chip, A Tribe Called Quest, Pharcyde, Queen Sea Big Shark (后海大鯊), New Pants (新裤子), Hedgehog (刺猬)
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Not banned but I don't love it when one of my staff plays the music from R Kelly's In The Closet without irony.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
6.3
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
It goes up a little as talking goes down. Then it reaches fever pitch and it goes off for a while. Then the silence is deafening and it goes on again for a bit. This circle repeats until we are finished.
2008-12-04 03:40:18
From Marian Bantjes:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
I don't have meetings.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
chocolate and Coke
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Neither. Coke.
Do you have music in the studio?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
bright eyes
broken social scene
bryan ferry / roxy music
iron & wine
david bowie
david byrene & brian eno
the decemberists
elvis perkins
the flaming lips
the frames
grant lee buffalo
jeff buckley
tim buckley
jim white
lucinda williams
m ward
martha wainwright
micah p hinson
the national
pearl jam
ray lamontaigne
ryan adams
sea wolf
sparklehorse
travis
the tragically hip
wilco
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
american pop warbling and caterwauling
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
4
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
depends. Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-04 10:33:04
From Meirion Pritchard, Wallpaper*:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Don’t tend to have biscuits etc, just get in the way. Try to keep meetings super quick.
If we have a meeting in the atrium, then sometimes we go for coffee’s and cookies.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
At the moment mid afternoon ‘pick me up’ of choice is a Belgian chocolate brownie, but also a classic fruit salad. If its likely to be an all nighter you can’t really beat a tactical chicken katsu and some edamame, and perhaps a coke
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Coffee sometimes in the morning, just a regular cap, tea sometimes in the afternoon, peppermint or green
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes we always have music on
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
We listen to a lot of KCRW, and then this week we have mainly been listening to a random mix of MGMT, Vampire Weekend, Laura Marling, with some Grace Jones and the classic Gerry’s Joint playlist of course. Kanye West has been played more recently as he’s one of our judges in our Awards Issue! It generally tends towards more hip-hop and guilty pleasures towards the end of the week.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
There was a time when Country music was banned by a member of the fashion dept, this has now been lifted. Anything goes, there is an unspoken hierachy of people who are allowed or dare to put music on though, ha
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
There are speakers throughout the studio, generally a comfortable 5-6-7, but then if there is an event a birthday or when we get a bar put in the office it can like in Spinal Tap, go to 11!
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Pretty consistent, unless art are working late then we turn it up a touch Gavin Lucas
2008-12-04 11:13:25
From Andrew Rae:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Doughnuts, Miles' Mums Rock Cakes and cheesy sticks, ginger biscuits, bananas.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
I often have a banana for a lift but Percy Pigs are also strangely addictive and at the moment I'm into Tic Tacs.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
I've had to stop being part of the Tea rounds in the studio as I never get round to making it and then feel guilty but I tend to got for Coffee over tea anyway.
Do you have music in the studio?
Pretty much always but quite often we'll have music on while some people have their headphones on listening to something else.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
I tend to make a playlist of a few hundred songs and then put it on random so I don't know what's coming next.
Here's a random selection:
Zoot Suit- the high Numbers,
Wooly Bully- Sam The Sham & the Pharaohs,
2 Paranoid- Black Sabbath
What'd I Say- Ray Charles
Fire and Brimstone- Link Wray
Egyptian Reggae- Jonathan Richman
North American Scum- LCD Soundsystem
Far East- Augustus Pablo
Don't You Just Know It - The Sonics
Sure 'Nuff 'n yes I do- Captain Beefheart
Conquest- The White Stripes
Delta Mama Blues- Townes Van Zandt
Alone Again Or- Love
Louie Louie- The Kingsmen
The Worm- Jimmy Mcgriff
Bam Bam- Sistr Nancy
Big Rock Candy Mountain- Harry McClintock
10,000 Years behind my mind- Focus Three
The Continuing story of Bungalow Bill- The Beatles
Bat Macumba- Os Mutantes
Sure Shot- Beastie Boys
Night Train- James Brown
Run for your Life- The Beatles
Laugh Laugh- The Beau Brummels
He's A Mighty Good Leader- Beck
The Man whose Head Expanded- The Fall
Buzz Saw- the Turtles
KRS-One Attacks- KRS-One
Fix up look Sharp- Dizzee Rascal
Sins of my Father-
Havana Moon- Chuck Berry
I'm so Glad- Cream
Sea Horse- Devedra Banhart
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
There are definitely different rules depending on who's in, for instance when the girls are out we can play Hip Hop with offensive lyrics.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Depends on the time of day, it tends to get louder the later it is, and in the evenings it can be very loud to drown out the experimental music from the exhibitions and performances next door.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up. I tend to go for more repetitive electronic music to speed me up. Gavin Lucas
2008-12-04 11:16:27
From Jeremy Leslie at John Brown and magculture.com
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Chicken Hobnobs
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Fruit juice, coffee, chocolate
Tea or coffee? What kind?
First thing, coffee. During day mint tea
Do you have music in the studio?
Always
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Acording to iTunes, Bat for Lashes, TV on the Radio, Fleet Foxes, Young Marble and Burial
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Anything by Sting
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Varies – 5-11
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-04 11:23:20
From Anna Gerber:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
japanese crackers but they're loud
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
obsessed with wasabi peas
Tea or coffee? What kind?
coffee of course, but i'm seeing a homeopath right now who won't let me drink it. so tea – lots of it.
Do you have music in the studio?
yes! can't think without it.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
keren ann
au revoir simone
leila
"so long, lonesome" by explosions in the sky
"veni vidi vici (diplo mix)" by black lips
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
electro-clash
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
12
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
up Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-04 11:40:30
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
None, they're too tight unless it's a breakfast meeting and we need to impress the client in which case Pret a Manger.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Marmite and toast
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Neither. Hot choc with an espresso shot.
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
No we all sit there in silence with our headphones on.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
It's too long to list. Mainly Electro, Trance and techno.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
11. It drowns everyone out nicely.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Off. But the headphone stay in to block out the office noise.
NB. I think I need a new job.
2008-12-04 13:07:39
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Nothing in the office. A sandwich if out to lunch.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Organic Smoothies, Cakes.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Clipper Fair Trade Tea, Fair Trade Supermarket brand ground coffee.
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Sometimes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
The Streets, Sufjan Stevens, Radio, Last.fm
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Local Commercial Radio
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
3
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Usually down.
2008-12-04 13:25:56
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Chocolate digestives, milk and dark choc
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Kettle Chips Sea salt and Cracked black pepper, Jonathan Crisp Jalapeño Pepper, a big bowl of Weetabix and milk
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea, PG Tips
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes, alternates between Radio 1 and Radio 2 (though I choose to listen to 6 Music through headphones)
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Not really...
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
5
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down
2008-12-04 13:37:06
We want to know the following vital information:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
-oatmeal cookies: oatmeal, dry fruits, nuts, chocolate,etc
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
-hot and spicy food
Tea or coffee? What kind?
-tea
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
depends of the work to do, mostly classic and pop (real pop!)and french music
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Mika, Madonna, Bach, Rostropovich, Piaf, Brel, etc
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Heavy metal, country and new age
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
5
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
up :)
2008-12-04 13:52:45
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
An assortment but majority contain chocolate.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Sweets + chocolate confectionery.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Both, but tea when the throat's are a bit dry.
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
A random playlist drawn from a library numbering 11,000+ mp3s.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Any teeny pop like McFly and depressing funeral type music.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
8 for peak-times as it drowns out the phone, but 11 after 6pm to keep us awake.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Deadlines vary between different jobs and designers so no.
2008-12-04 13:56:39
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Don't fuck around in this department. Keep it simple, keep it classic: Jaffa Cakes (not strictly a biscuit but let's not open that bag)
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
A light dusting of coke and crack upon a plate of fish and chips with a side order of mushy peas and an ice cold can of Coca Cola usually sees me right
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea. PG Tips. Nothing fancy. Builders: white, two sugars. Boff
Do you have music in the studio?
Constantly, can't work without it. It's a necessity
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Chad VanGaalen 'Soft Airplane'
AA Bondy 'American Hearts'
Rodriguez 'Cold Fact'
Vince Guaraldi Trio 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' (OST)
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Christian Metal
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
5. Loud enough to hear, quiet enough to think
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down. I like to hear the sound of my own inner turmoil. It turns me on.
2008-12-04 15:42:50
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Used to be milk chocolate hobnobs...
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
cashew nuts, dark chocolate.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
decaf green tea, somewhat foolishly gave up caffeine this year
Do you have music in the studio?
yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
beirut, oppenheimer, beach boys, howling bells, fleet foxes...
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
james blunt type crap
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
6
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down. Loud music stresses me out too much. Just like grandma.
2008-12-04 17:15:20
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Before any business is discussed, we all sit down to a dinner of the older delicacies -- the sort that you would have enjoyed at a minor Bavarian prince's banquet in the early 1700s or so. There is always a whole boiled pig stuffed with radishes and birch leaves. The fowl course pairs pheasant (also boiled, but in a broth of allspice and Reisling), goose gizzard, and charred sparrow. We're very big on the organ meats: heart, lung, lymph, etc. Of course there is a great deal of home-brewed squash-dandelion beer and wines from the lower Rhine. We do not serve pasta or anything Italian, as the Italian culinary tradition is far too effeminate for our clients. For dessert, a nice pudding of pumpernickel loaf, maple syrup, and rough country liver paté, drenched in brandy, is just the thing. We like our clients to have the fear of God in them from the outset.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Nothing better that a few good chunks of milk-boiled beef tripe. Wash it down with 3-hour-steeped Persian wildweed coffee.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
We do not drink tea here. We are Americans, after all. Our coffee pot is replenished continually -- in fact it began with an initial 'strarter' brew much like how sourdough bread is made. That starter brew, concocted in February of 1986, still flavors the pots we make today -- it's hard to miss the notes of peat moss and charcoal. Over the years, in addition to more peat moss, the brew might include anything from unsweetened chocolate, dried rhubarb, wheat germ husks, Indian corn, used coffee grounds from the local Lebanese felafel stand, and goat cream. It's 'coffee' in a sort of Platonic sense.
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
We do not, first off, have a proper creative department. We like to think of the office lay-out more like Beijing -- it's a system of concentric regions. The center is completely silent and cannot be entered without various tests of strength and is usually empty during the day. At night it is subletted to a Philippino laundry service. Working out from the cetner is the Telecom Division, which handles all customer service calls and is located in Sweden. Then the Large Bathroom (self-explanatory, for large people), the Computer Room, which is kept at 45 degrees F and is totally silent. Then the Small Bathroom, the Library (smaller than the Small Bathroom), and finally the Moat. But in answer to your question, yes of course we have music: a Bulgarian string quartet plays continuously from the balcony.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
The quartet plays mostly John Williams symphonies (some might know they as 'soundtracks') because Bulgarian was the first language that Williams's work was translated into in the early 80s. When they take a break, we like Michael Jackson as much as the next guys. (Yeah, we didn't have any luck getting him in person either -- I know we've all tried.)
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
We don't ban musical genres so much as a) musical instruments (lutes, Pan flutes, miniature harps, Greek pipes, and harmonicas) and especially b) musical clichés. To say "That rocks like a mid-career Neil Young ballad" will get you an hour in the moat. Comparing anything to Arcade Fire will result in you being shunned for one month. Any reference to a Chuck Klosterman essay can easily get you transferred to the Telecom Division, DURING WINTER.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
With 1 being the most Baroque? I'd say about a 3.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
As deadlines approach the music gets louder because the office gets much more crowded. This is because our policy is to bring our clients in to the office to do the work of putting together the presentations that we make to them. Since they know nothing about graphic design (don't even get me started on what we have to teach them about the software), we also bring in the design faculty of the University of Constantinople, plus a team of translators. So, with all those people, we up the string quartet to a full octet and for really big projects a baker's dozen (who, strangely, only sing barbershop).
2008-12-04 17:53:43
From Corey Holms:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
An assortment of breakfast breads - bagels, muffins, etc.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Something with protein like beef jerky or peanut butter.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea, I like Oolong. But I tend to drink a LOT more Diet Coke.
Do you have music in the studio?
Yes, all the time.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Alias, Peter Broderick and PJ Harvey have been in heavy rotation recently.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Overly frenetic music.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Quite low, I'd say a 3 or a 4.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Tends to go up unless it's something where we need to be communicating with each other, then it gets turned off. Gavin Lucas
2008-12-04 18:46:23
From David Bailey @ letskiosk.com:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Brown biscuits
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Dried Pineapple slices
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Decaff coffee
Do you have music in the studio?
We do
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
• Kanye West
• Julian Cope
• Toots & the Maytals
• Q-Tip
• Buckethead
• http://music.miniaturegigantic.com (latest offering)
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Next doors
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
7.3
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Up Gavin Lucas
2008-12-04 18:48:56
From Digital Club:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
We don't supply them.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Uncooked oats.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Coffee, pressed. I find Tea overwhelmingly underwhelming.
Do you have music in the studio?
Headphones only
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Early Chicago House, Disco, Pulp, 90's Techno, 90's O.S.T.s
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
No
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
8
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down Patrick Burgoyne
2008-12-05 10:47:35
Andy - Soapforall
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
The occasional chocolate hobnob.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Fruit & the occasional chocolate hobnob.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Mostly good C C CC CCccoooffeeeeee With the odd cup of Tetleys (Hobnobs are the best biscuit for dunking).
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Most of the time.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
George Lamb & Co's irreverent, witty banter is a regular feature in the morning followed by anything from Classical to Indie to Soul Jazz to Hip Hop (you don't stop, on the studio wheels of steel), Brazilian Samba. Bossa Nova... to Metal (good metal)... Licorice Allsorts really, quite eclectic. Far too many artists to list. What ever fits the day, the job, the mood. The legend that is Giles Peterson has a lot of influence.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Naff commercial pop rubbish.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Mostly 5 with the odd 10 spurt.
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
As above.
2008-12-05 11:32:51
I am Ralph a Student from Chester Uni and I am gathering research for one of my projects on creative industries.
These Questions are for Designers in industry.
3 quick questions for you creative agencies about Unions.
Please go to this link.
Click Here to take survey
2008-12-05 18:38:35
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
M&S selection box. The chocolatier the better.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Lucozade
Bacon sarnies every Friday morning. Without fail. With HP sauce.
Sometimes with a hash brown if we're feeling way out.
Beer o'clock 4.45pm every Friday.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Both. In different cups.
Lisa needs to make my coffee a little less treacley though.
Its in her appraisal notes.
Do you have music in the studio?
Oh yes.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Usually stuff with guitars, more dancey towards the end of the week and getting more chilled on Friday afternoon.
We miss Matts playlists.
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
We're from a broad church.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Around 6
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Everything gets louder in my head so no idea!
2008-12-06 12:14:08
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
We don't. Most of our meetings happen online, over the phone or in bars/cafés.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Biscuits - preferably ones shaped like the Intercity circle logo - http://intercitydesign.com/images/Intercity_biscuit.jpg - but most will do.
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Tea (Tetley). Coffee (Tesco) when it's late and time is running out.
Do you have music in the studio?
Of course.
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
Anti-Pop Consortium, The Jedi Knights, Get Involved Vol. II, Autechre, Speedy J, Pan Sonic, Aesop Rock, Jimmy Edgar, Vangelis, Quinoline Yellow...
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio?
Not really... although anything with a guitar doesn't really get a look in.
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Most of the time: 4 - now and again: 11
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
In general it goes up and gets faster... As long as there's no vocal. Electronic's best...
2008-12-08 11:38:29
From Louise @ JWT London:
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
Kit Kats, Kellogg's Nutrigrain Bars, Special K Bars (and the odd muffin)
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Salt and Vinegar Discos
Tea or coffee? What kind?
Happy with instant coffee
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
We have radios and some teams have TVs, so have MTV on
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
N/A
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative
department?
No
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
Depends on where you are, between 4 - 9
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down Eliza Williams
2008-12-10 17:39:54
What kind of biscuits/snacks do you have in meetings?
With Clients - Kit-Kats, Penguins, Buns&Muffins&Cake
In studio - Milk Choc. Digestives, Ginger Nuts, Nice, Tescos finest chewy Oat and fruit cookies, Chocolate fingers. Mandarin Orange for she who refuses to eat biscuits.
Which foods do you turn to when you need a lift?
Ginger Nuts
Tea or coffee? What kind?
T- Earl Grey, Lady Grey, Nambarrie
C- Kenco Instant, Lavazza Ground
Do you have music in the studio/creative department?
Yes
If so, what’s on your current playlist?
BBC Radio 6 / Last FM
Are there any music genres that are banned from the studio/creative department?
Not Really
On a scale of 1 to 11, how loud is the music?
2
As you get closer to deadline does the music go up or down?
Down (unfortunately)
2008-12-12 13:35:13
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