When the mood turns to romance, the pressure is on to select a playlist that can set the right tone. The wrong choice of song can sabotage every attempt to make a move, but the right choice can mean smooth sailing. Lucky for you, the Sheaf is here with the perfect soundtrack for a sensual evening.

A popular belief is that music has the power to connect people, and neuroscience might just back up this claim. A 2014 study published in the journal Neuropsychoelogia found that during shared sensory experiences, mostly linked with moving in sync, the brain starts to blur the lines of “self.” So, putting on some appropriate tunes the next time you want to get intimate can help you and your partner really get on the same level.

Not sure what songs will really wow your mate? Here are some foolproof grooves to get things going.

“Limestone” by Magic City Hippies

This song is a great lead-in. It’s smooth, warm and reminiscent of lazy summer days — think late afternoon trips to a sandbar in July. “Limestone” very subtly sets the mood, giving you time to get good and cozy with your partner while also impressing them with your impeccable taste.

“You Ain’t Gotta Lie (Momma Said)” by Kendrick Lamar

Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly was lauded by many as one of the best albums of 2015, so impress your partner with your musical prowess when this song starts and take a minute to tell them how much you love the album — it’s hard to find a person who doesn’t agree.

“Lovesong” by The Cure

Switch things up and immerse yourselves in an real-life romantic comedy with “Lovesong.” Written by lead singer Robert Smith as a wedding present for his fiancée, this song is a perfect way to let someone know you’re really into them.

“Robbers” by The 1975

This song is effortlessly cool. Laid back and relaxed, it’s a solid track for really getting into the groove with your partner. Building slowly but steadily, it will set a good pace without distracting from, well, the task at hand.

“Thinkin Bout You” by Frank Ocean

It probably wouldn’t be a bad move to simply play Frank Ocean’s entire album Channel Orange for your make-out session. For just a sampling, be sure to play this track when things start getting hot and heavy. This smooth beat and Ocean’s flawless falsetto will prove to be a perfect compliment.

“Lost in the Light” by Bahamas

This song is a hopeless romantic. Reminiscent of your first crush, let it tug at your heartstrings and remind you what it feels like to be in love. This brooding Canadian musician will help you and your partner feel perfectly in sync.

“Coming Home” by Leon Bridges

Keep the passion going with this gentle soul track by Leon Bridges. This song is a perfect puppy-love anthem. By the time Bridges reaches the outro, with a smooth and seamless fade-out, you’ll feel like you just made out in every romance movie montage ever.

“I’ll Show You” by Justin Bieber

Say what you will about Justin Bieber’s storied past, his latest album is most definitely what the kids call “fire.” Other chart topping hits from Purpose might not set the make-out mood quite as well as this one, however. Leave out “Sorry” this one time — the 1990s technicolor outfits and intense choreography just don’t fit well with an evening of sensual connections.

“I Need My Girl” by The National

Lead singer Matt Berninger showcases his unique deep and raspy voice in this popular hit, and it’s enough to make even the coldest heart swoon. If nothing has worked up to this point, The National is your saving grace. This song picks up a drumline very similar to a heartbeat about halfway through, so listen for it if you’re not too caught up in the heat of the moment — it’ll keep the pace very naturally.

“Universe” by Savage Garden

You can’t have a make-out playlist without a track by Savage Garden. It’s been an unwritten law since the band’s formation in 1993. Slip this one in as the finale to your love-time mix or face the inevitable consequences.

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Emily Migchels

Photo Illustration: Jeremy Britz / Graphics Editor