Yeah, I feel like most seem to have a list of non-distracting relaxing music for thinking. But I agree, the type of work denotes the genre of music I would pick.

I like post rock like 65daysofstatic, This Will Destroy You, Mogwai. Other all instrumental random collections sometimes classical(ish?) particularly with piano, cello, and/or violin. 2CELLOS, The Piano Guys, Giovanni Sollima. Perhaps folk as well like Final Fantasy, Rilo Kiley, Elliott Smith.

If I'm trying to listen to something a bit more robust to stay awake perhaps Apocalyptica, Lacuna Coil, Nightwish. If I'm working around the house or doing something active I end up with a lot of '90s rock and metal type bands. Especially if I'm working out or hardcore spring cleaning or something.