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W: Karl Watson
Stripped of the noise, the lights, and the labels, what remains is the music that truly matters. The Lifeboat Playlist is a raw deep dive into the sonic DNA of the artists we love, forcing them to choose the ten definitive tracks they’d carry into isolation. It’s a survival kit built on gut-level resonance—a collection of anthems, heartbreaks, and high-octane riffs that define a lifetime.
From stadium-sized roars to vulnerable late-night confessions, these are the songs that keep the fire burning when the horizon feels endless. These ten tracks aren’t just influences—they’re blueprints. They represent the standards we measure ourselves against and the kind of songwriting that made us want to start a band in the first place. Each one captures something essential—ambition, atmosphere, melody, or sheer conviction—forming the foundation of how we approach writing and performing today.
We’ve each picked two songs that mean something to us personally and musically. Tracks that have shaped our tastes, influenced our craft, or simply stayed with us throughout our lives.
Marty: Dire Straits - Tunnel Of Love
It’s a song that’s really close to Marty’s heart. It references a lot of places around Whitley Bay that were part of his upbringing, especially the Spanish City — somewhere tied to a lot of childhood memories and even where he proposed to his fiancée. On top of that, Dire Straits were his dad’s favourite band, so there’s a strong emotional connection there too.
Shed Seven - Chasing Rainbows
In Marty’s eyes, this is Britpop perfection. Huge chorus, brilliant melody, and one of those songs that somehow feels nostalgic and mysterious at the same time. Probably his all-time favourite track.
Andrew: The Waterboys - The Whole of the Moon
Anyone who’s ever ended up in a karaoke bar with Andrew will already know this one. It’s a song that never loses its magic — especially the way the lyrics contrast different experiences and perspectives throughout. One of those songs that somehow feels massive and intimate at the same time.
The Twilight Sad - Cold Days from the Birdhouse
The first listen felt completely unlike anything Andrew had heard before. There’s something about the atmosphere and slow-burning intensity that The Twilight Sad create — especially in this track — that’s genuinely euphoric once it finally explodes into that wall of sound.
Stuart: Dream Theatre - The Spirit Carries On
A prog-rock masterpiece in Stuart’s eyes. The musicianship, especially from guitarist John Petrucci, is something he’s always admired and drawn inspiration from.
Bruce Springsteen - Mansion on the Hill
The Boss speaks for himself really. Timeless song writing, huge emotional weight, and the kind of storytelling that sticks with you long after the song ends.
David: Jethro Tull - Thick as a Brick
Pink Floyd - Echoes
David’s logic was simple: if he’s stranded somewhere with only a handful of songs and the rest of the band for company, he’s making sure he gets maximum value out of track length. Thankfully, both also happen to be absolute prog epics.
Stephen: Biffy Clyro - Tiny Indoor Fireworks
This is just a brilliantly written pop-rock song. Big hooks, loads of energy, and drums that hit exactly the way they should. It’s the kind of track that reminds you how effective a great rhythm section can be when everything locks together.
Fightstar - Build an Army
Favourite band, favourite album, favourite song; this one ticks every box for him. The atmosphere and intensity of the track are huge, but it’s Omar’s drumming in particular that really stands out and has always been a massive influence.