Music sets the right tone in the kitchen and at the table. These are a few playlists for the different phases of a dinner party, from prep through to the last cleanup, plus a bonus mix for a fried chicken. Make your own mixes and tell us what you like!

Afternoon in the Kitchen

We listen to a borderline schizophrenic mix when we're cooking. We basically apply the same philosophy to music as we do to food: we play what we like, and if we like it, others probably will too. The right mid-tempo groove that's good to cook by is also often a great mix for during dinner.

Songs for the Hour of Self-Loathing

Usually just when the guests start arriving is also just when you need to push them all out of the kitchen and buckle down and finish your shit. This is music to push you through the stress and instill you with a sense of urgency. Goes great with a glass of whiskey and a sharp knife.

After-Dinner Dishwashing Dance Party

Nicole pioneered the kitchen dance party, to encourage the volunteer dishwashers. As she says, "it's all about the rock and the rap while doing dishes; you have to keep the energy up, you've had a few, and you're more likely to shout out obscenities and get your groove on so you can tackle the grease smeared post-meal destruction." Here's our selection.

Summer Fried Chicken

Karl composed this playlist especially for your deep-fried fiesta in the backyard. This selection will you get you moving, from dredging the sexy breasts, legs and thighs through the batter right on through the feasting.