Essential late-night dissertation music...

In the very small hours, when the house is otherwise quiet, save for the tapping of keys, and the turning of pages, Billy Bragg is just right. And there's no better Bragg than his 1988 Worker's Playtime, which includes gems like "Must I paint you a picture," "Tender comrade," "The price I pay" and "Valentine's Day is over."

Most important decisions in life
Are made between two people in bed
I found that out at my expense
And when I see you
You just turn around and walk away like we never met
Oh we used to be so brave
I dreamt the world stopped turning as we climbed the hill
I dreamt impossible dreams that we were lovers still

Must I paint you a picture
About the way that I feel
You know that my love for you is strong girl
You know my love for you is real