Bobbyisms: Music to set the mood

I write a lot about random things. I write about random things a lot. While I don't often characterize music in terms of its ability to get someone laid, don't make the mistake of thinking that sex isn't immovably connected to music.

Music sets an atmosphere like nothing else can, whether you're alone with your lover with the lights dimmed or surrounded at a party wishing you could find a private space. Music makes our bodies move, it has the power to overwhelm us with desire and ignite our imaginations, and when desire and imagination meet, it can have exciting results.

Whether you're looking to stare deeply into each other's eyes or bite down on each other's shoulders, the following records have got a lot to offer. Just don't get so caught up in things that you forget protection, your lover's name or to call in sick for school in the morning.

For the intimate

Adele, 21 (2011)
Adele made a huge splash in music a couple of years ago, bursting out of England with her debut album, 19. While this young singer's music is at times very textured, her second record, 21, is dripping with as much sex appeal as it is style.

Very much at home in the emerging trend of artists embracing the fundamentals over production frills, the record features Adele's soul as its primary instrument; while the songs at times reflect heartbreak or regret, the music here is stunning and will create an atmosphere perfectly attuned to a powerful romantic experience. This is music custom-made for two.

For the playful

Bob Marley & The Wailers, Legend (1984)
Ordinarily speaking, I wouldn't suggest putting music on in the background that makes you want to sing along. If you're interested in a playful setting, however, any collection you may have on hand of the greatest hits of Bob Marley & The Wailers is a solid exception.

Marley was no stranger to love; his songs often celebrate love and compel you to dance, even if you aren't standing. So powerful and full of sex appeal is his music that your lover may be moved to hum along, a reaction I'm sure you'll enjoy.

For the passionate

DEavid Bowie, Earthling (1997)
There are very few people in music that have had the kind of influential career that David Bowie has had, and the key has been constant reinvention. Bowie has been fearless in trying new styles and taking risks with his music.

Which is where Earthling comes in. Born of fusion, this record — released shortly after Bowie's 50th birthday — melts pounding industrial and house music with rock and roll to create a sort of dark, demented pop music. Rest assured that if what you want is intensity, you couldn't pick a better album to set the mood.

Be safe, have fun and don't feel compelled to tell me how it went. For more music news, views and online streams, follow @FSU_Bobbyisms on Twitter and check out the Music Recommendations thread in our FSU social network. I'm out of words.