Warning: This article contains spoilers from Shrinking season 2, episodes 1-9.The Shrinking season 2 soundtrack features a diverse selection of songs that intricately connect to the series’ themes and unexpected plot developments. In this season, therapist Jimmy Laird (Jason Segel) continues his unconventional methods of aiding his patients while navigating his grief over the loss of his wife, Tia (Lilan Bowden). Jimmy’s therapeutic style faces scrutiny from his mentor, Dr. Paul Rhoades (Harrison Ford), who advocates for maintaining professional boundaries between therapists and their clients.

Following the intense conclusion of Shrinking season 1, where Jimmy’s patient Grace (Heidi Gardner) confronts her abusive boyfriend in a dramatic fashion, both she and Jimmy must deal with the repercussions of her actions. Meanwhile, Gaby (Jessica Williams), a colleague of Jimmy and Paul, attempts to juggle her responsibilities as a therapist with her new teaching job, while also contemplating her complicated feelings for Jimmy. The carefully curated songs in Shrinking‘s episodes enhance the emotional and narrative depth of the challenges the characters face throughout season 2.

Discover the Soundtrack of Shrinking Season 1, Episode 1

Explore the Song “Jimmying”

“Born Under A Sun” by Albert King: In the first episode of Shrinking season 2, this lively song plays during a heartwarming moment as Paul and his girlfriend, Dr. Julie Baram (Wendie Malick), share a dance together. Their intimate moment is joyfully interrupted by Gaby, who picks up Paul for work every morning. Gaby’s delight at witnessing the usually reserved Paul engaging in such a tender act prompts her to capture the moment in photos, creating lasting memories of this cherished scene.

“Your Love” by The Outfield: This catchy tune is briefly featured as Gaby drives Paul to work, where she inquires about his relationship with Julie. As she poses increasingly personal questions about their future together, Paul attempts to evade the discussion by turning up the radio and singing along to “Your Love.” Typically, Gaby enjoys joining in on their morning sing-alongs, but this time, she swiftly turns off the radio, more invested in discussing Paul’s romantic future.

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“Hollow Heart” by C. James: As the first episode draws to a close, the poignant song “Hollow Heart” resonates when Paul confesses his love to Julie at her home, a significant step for a man who typically struggles with emotional vulnerability. The song’s emotional tone continues as Jimmy returns home and discusses with Sean (Luke Tennie) the transition of having Paul become his therapist, underscoring the importance of seeking help and recognizing that it’s what’s best for Sean.

“Looking Too Closely” by Fink: The final track accompanying the credits of Shrinking season 2’s premiere is “Looking Too Closely.” This song plays as Sean embarks on his initial therapy session with Paul, marking a critical shift in his journey. The music continues as Jimmy enters the waiting room, where he is taken aback and filled with anger upon seeing Louis (Brett Goldstein), the man responsible for the accident that claimed Tia’s life.

Uncover the Soundtrack of Shrinking Season 2, Episode 2

Experience the Song “I Love Pain”

“Never Been Better” by Ben Abraham: This upbeat track kicks in as Jimmy tosses his car keys to his daughter, Alice (Lukita Maxwell), recording the moment for a sentimental father-daughter video. The song continues to play when Paul unexpectedly meets a former patient, Raymond (Neil Flynn), at a bar, marking a surprising moment where he crosses the boundaries he usually maintains between his personal and professional life. “Never Been Better” perfectly captures the characters’ joyful spirits as Sean returns home in high spirits after working through his emotions with Paul.

“Cope” by AKA lisa: This song poignantly reveals Alice’s struggles after she takes the car and visits Louis’ house, where she grapples with the reality of her mother’s death. Sitting atop her father’s car, she gazes into the window at Louis—the man whose actions led to her mother’s tragic demise. This scene foreshadows deeper emotional conflicts that are likely to unfold throughout the remainder of Shrinking season 2.

Explore the Soundtrack of Shrinking Season 2, Episode 3

Dive into the Song “Psychological Something-ism”

“Seasons” by Bebe Rexha and Dolly Parton: This heartfelt song plays on the radio while Jimmy drives Alice home after dropping off her best friend, Summer (Rachel Stubington). Alice is lost in thought, reflecting on a flashback memory of her mother enthusiastically dropping her off at soccer practice, expressing her love for her daughter. The song poignantly captures the themes of change and the passage of time, emotions that Alice grapples with in the wake of her mother’s passing, compounded by the uncertainty surrounding her feelings for Louis.

“Letting Go” by Angie McMahon: In this episode, the characters embark on journeys of self-acceptance and release. Grace confronts her past mistakes as she and her sister drive away in a moving van, symbolizing her desire to move forward. Paul opens up during his appointment with a new neurologist, allowing himself to be vulnerable with Julie. Meanwhile, Jimmy visits Brian (Michael Urie) for dinner, where they begin a new tradition, letting go of past resentments. The song also underscores Alice’s misguided attempt at letting go when she kisses Connor (Gavin Lewis).

Discover the Soundtrack of Shrinking Season 2, Episode 4

Explore the Song “Made You Look”

“Bad Decisions” by The Strokes: “Bad Decisions” sets the tone for the start of Shrinking season 2, episode 4, aptly titled “Made You Look.” The opening scene features Alice and Connor waking up after making a regrettable decision the night before. Their choice to sleep together is particularly troublesome, given that Connor is currently dating Alice’s best friend, Summer. The song continues as Alice tries to sneak out of Connor’s house, leading to a comical mishap where she falls off the balcony, adding to the chaos of the situation.

“Age of Anxiety I” by Arcade Fire: This song plays as Paul shares with his daughter, Meg (Lily Rabe), his instincts as a therapist, revealing that he can sense when something bad is about to happen. As he speaks, Gaby ignores a call from her sister, Courtney (Courtney Taylor), which is later revealed to be about their mother being in a car accident. The song also features poignant moments with Louis, who appears conflicted as he holds Alice’s wallet that she inadvertently left behind, highlighting the emotional turmoil surrounding these characters.

“Give Us The Precious (Lord of the Rings Trap)” by 2Padre$: The episode features this quirky remix when Damon Wayans Jr.’s character, Derrick, visits Gaby’s house for a date. Gaby excitedly mentions that she has this remix queued up for their morning together, intending for it to play for thirty minutes. However, their time is cut short when Gaby receives a distressing call from her sister, Courtney, about their mother’s hospitalization. Derrick is left to ponder the unusual remix while he assists with household chores.

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“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls: This iconic track plays as Jimmy reflects on the video he recorded of tossing his car keys to Alice, capturing a sentimental moment in their father-daughter relationship. “Iris” enhances the emotional weight of this scene, as Jimmy strives to reconnect with Alice after a year of being emotionally unavailable following Tia’s death. He emphasizes the significance of small moments, treating this seemingly minor event as a major milestone in their journey together.

“Your Mind Is Not Your Friend” by The National: The last song in this episode plays as Louis walks away from Jimmy and Alice’s home. Although Louis claims to be fine, it’s evident he is grappling with deep emotional pain stemming from the car accident. His mental anguish continues to haunt him, and despite Brian’s instinct to leave him be, he cannot ignore Louis’s suffering and attempts to offer support.

Discover the Soundtrack of Shrinking Season 2, Episode 5

Experience the Song “Honesty Era”

“Bittersweet” by Marc Sibilia: In this episode of Shrinking, the soundtrack is largely underscored by “Bittersweet,” which plays as Jimmy supports Gaby through her familial challenges. Their rekindled friendship is heartwarming, and the song complements other pivotal moments, such as Paul reconciling with his ex-wife Susan (Kelly Bishop) during Meg’s lecture. Alice also finds closure with Liz (Christa Miller) after the fallout with Connor. However, the episode takes a darker turn as Sean succumbs to his inner turmoil, leading to a confrontation with construction workers that results in his getting beaten up.

Explore the Soundtrack of Shrinking Season 2, Episode 6

Dive Into the Song “In a Lonely Place”

“One (Remix)” by Alexis Ffrench: This emotional track begins to play as Sean receives a visit from his father, Tim (Kenajuan Bentley), in the hospital. After a heartfelt conversation with Jimmy and Paul, Tim gains insight into his past shortcomings and resolves to be a better support for Sean. “One” symbolizes the rekindling of their relationship, emphasizing the importance of unity and family as Tim makes amends.

“Escape (John Summit Remix)” by Kx5, deadmau5, & Kaskade: The episode wraps up with this energetic song as Liz visits her old friend, Mac (Josh Hopkins). The lyrics reflect a desire for escape and connection, mirroring Liz’s feelings of invisibility in her marriage to Derek (Ted McGinley). Mac provides a momentary reprieve from her struggles, encapsulating the emotional landscape