Startle Selects - October 2025

Every month, Magnus, our Head of Music Development, pulls together what he thinks are the most captivating and essential releases from that month for Startle Selects. 

Our curators can then pick and choose from this playlist as they see fit, so that playlist updates for the brands who work with us are always up to date.

Fancy finding out his favourite songs from the spookiest month of the year?

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Who Knows - Daniel Caesar

"Who Knows" by Daniel Caesar, featuring Unknown Mortal Orchestra, is a soulful, introspective love song that explores vulnerability and uncertainty in relationships. 

The track blends smooth R&B with gentle psychedelic tones, creating a dreamy atmosphere. The song was released as part of Caesar’s 2024 project, Never Enough (Deluxe), “Who Knows” is a standout for its understated warmth. If you’re a fan of Frank Ocean, Steve Lacy or Jordan Rakei, you’ll love this one.

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LOVE ON ME - Sam Gellaitry

Released on 24 October 2025 as part of his forthcoming album Anywhere Here Is Perfect, “LOVE ON ME” is an elegant, shimmering piece of electronic soul. 

The track features Gellaitry’s signature lush production, with soft vocals and percussive elements creating an intimate tune. 

The track is a perfect fit for the transitioning of the seasons as we leave summer behind, when the nights start to draw in and the air gets colder.

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Get Back - Samm Henshaw

“Get Back”, Samm Henshaw’s latest release, is a nostalgic yet modern tune. The track has 70s soul vibes, with ethereal keys and a shuffling bass-and-drum groove, but also has hints of modern R&B. 

Henshaw’s forthcoming album, It Could Be Worse, will be vinyl-only initially, signalling a deliberate pace and an invitation to engage more deeply with his work. It’s a bold move!

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Eyes Closed - Melody’s Echo Chamber

Melody’s Echo Chamber returns with “Eyes Closed,” a lush, dream-pop track that blends shimmering guitars, hypnotic drums, and floating vocals. Produced with The Heliocentrics’ Malcolm Catto, the song layers groove and texture beautifully.

Lyrically, Melody Prochet describes it as a song about seeing more deeply - closing your eyes not to escape, but to connect. That sense of inner reflection makes it perfect for moments when the world slows down and you want music that feels immersive but calm.

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Talk To You - Sam Fender ft. Elton John

In this standout collaboration, Sam Fender brings his signature rock storytelling to a deeply personal place, and Elton John’s piano skill lends the track a polished, emotional lift. 

Musically, it blends Fender’s guitar‑driven urgency with John’s graceful piano - a perfect combination of rawness and elegance. 

Released on the heels of Fender’s acclaimed album People Watching and his Mercury Prize win, “Talk to You” feels like both a fantastic closing point for this musical era.