It is a bit tempting to think that an oblique phrase on a randomly selected card inspired the latest million selling Coldplay single. Given the end product of some of these recording sessions, it’s not surprising that in some quarters the Oblique Strategies cards have developed an enigmatic and almost mystical status. The cards were apparently used by David Bowie while he was making his Berlin Trilogy of albums (Low, “Heroes”, Lodger) and by the likes of REM and more recently Coldplay. This is essential stuff for musicians (and managers) who are burning up expensive recording studio dollars with the equivalent of ‘writers block’. There are some rules but you will need to get hold of a set of cards to read for yourself (I’m not about to stray into copyright territory here). You literally remove a card from the deck, read what’s written on it and have a think about what it means. The idea is that you use the cards to jolt you out of familiar thought patterns, and into a mindset where you explore something different.
Sorry to disappoint those hoping for some pointers on ‘creativity enhancing pharmaceuticals’ (although these may be necessary on the team away day). Question: What has David Bowie and Brian Eno, a 1970’s recording studio, the “Heroes” album, and a pack of cards called ‘Oblique Strategies’ got to do with your Corporate ‘brainstorming and innovative creativity’ team away day session?