Depending on the vibe you’re looking for this summer, these albums are sure to complete the playlist you’ve been slaving over. From folk music for nature hikes to dreamy electronics for running the streets at night, it’s all covered. Make the most if it!
1. Shakey Graves, "And The War Came"
This album stumbled into my lap, and I’m so glad it did. This is the sophomore album from Alejandro Rose-Garcia, the singer-songwriter behind the stage name Shakey Graves. His music is labeled as “hobo folk” (whatever that means—he doesn’t even know). The album is great for road trips and vacationing in a cabin, or wishing that you were.
Favorite Tracks: “Dearly Departed” feat. Esmé Patterson and “Big Time Nashville Star"
2. Zella Day, "Kicker"
Zella Day, referred to as the happier Lana Del Rey, was born in Arizona and moved her Western Bohemian sound to LA. Mixing this Bohemian flair with modern pop is what made her stand out, and her powerful voice made her a standout performer at Coachella this year. This album encompasses the sticky summer sound of running in flower fields and making out on the hood of a car.
Favorite Tracks: “1965" and “High”
3. Montgomery, "New Clear War"
This selection is more of an EP than a full-length album, but I think it’s well worth a listen. A lot like CHVRCHES, Montgomery mixes synth with her honey voice, except she is particularly more melancholy. It was released in 2014, but is still perfectly relevant for this summer if you want to wallow in your summertime sadness.
Favorite Tracks: “Not Around” and “War Cry"
4. Twenty One Pilots, "Blurryface"
You’ve definitely been exposed to singles from this album such as “Stressed Out” or “Ride,” but you haven’t experienced the summer potential of "Blurryface" until you’ve jammed out to the high-energy and undeniably cool tracks I’ve listed below. Made up of Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun, the duo is known for their reggae and rap influences. This record is great for car rides and dancing in your room alone (tested and approved).
Favorite Tracks: “Fairly Local” and “Lane Boy”
5. Freelance Whales, "Weathervanes"
Despite being released in 2009, this album never stops being fun and hasn’t outgrown itself. With quirky cute lyrics and hooks, this band is known for it’s electronic folk feel. Xylophones and banjos have a heavy presence on this record, which makes it the happy-go-lucky album you need for this summer. Most of the lyrics don’t make sense to me, but I sing ‘em anyway!
Favorite Tracks: “Starring” and “The Great Estates"