ESSENTIAL SONGS
“Girl,” The Beatles, Rubber Soul, 1965
Because…Past the point where they wanted to hold your hand, and a few years away from urging us all to come together, the slow intake of breath after every slow “Giiirrrllll” is the very definition of unspoken longing.

“Lay Lady Lay,” The Isley Brothers, Givin’ It Back, 1971
Because…Al Green and Isaac Hayes may be sexy soul staples, but the Isleys can get a mojo working just as smoothly. This Bob Dylan song is a slow-burning 10-minute-long jam for lovers who like to take their time.

“Wicked Game,” Chris Isaak, Heart Shaped World, 1989
Because…You don’t need to see Isaak and Helena Christensen in black and white on a beach (remember the sexy music video for “Wicked Game”?). This song’s slow twang is perfect for exchanging your own smouldering glances.


ESSENTIAL ALBUMS
The Best Of Leonard Cohen, Leonard Cohen, 1975
Because…Poet, singer, legendary ladies’ man—Leonard Cohen knows a few things about seduction. Put this on, light a few candles and let Montréal’s finest remind you why they say the brain is the most important sexual organ.

África Brasil, Jorge Ben, 1976
Because…Rod Stewart stole the melody for “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” from this album’s “Taj Mahal.” (Ben successfully sued him.) At least Rod had the right idea, as this mid-70s Afro-Brazilian funk masterpiece is perfect for sweaty, celebratory times—provided that you’ve got a lot of energy.

Moon Safari, Air, 1998
Because…Ten years on, the French duo’s debut album still oozes futuristic European sex. Smooth and stylish throughout, songs like “Sexy Boy” and “All I Need” could soundtrack your own private fashion show.