Music is definitely something that always influences my mood. Since it's the summer, I wanted to make a playlist of feel-good tracks that are perfect for lounging around in the sun. These happy, upbeat songs are great to really enforce that chill and relaxed summer vibe. You can listen to the full playlist on my Spotify here! Happy listening!
1. Future Islands- Seasons (Waiting On You)
This is one of my favorite songs of the moment! It starts off a little slower, but as soon as the driving guitar kicks in it's impossible to prevent yourself from moving to the music! The track is pretty simple in nature-- gritty vocals over an upbeat synthy melody, but the swelling and building of the song will leave you wanting more. My absolute favorite part is how the track trails off, letting the last "I've been waiting on you" linger.
2. Ra Ra Riot- Absolutely
This is a classically upbeat track, with a perky guitar lick and cheery layered vocals. It's poppy, fresh, and absolutely amazing. The repetitive lyrics are super catchy and the unexpected addition of a string ensemble is unique, yet totally enhances the feel good vibe of the song.
3. Nevada Color- New Mexico
Lyrically, the song is a little sad-- focusing on the things we see but never fully get a chance to experience. However, the pounding drums, the fast tempo and quirky nature of the song totally offset it to provide a really novel and exciting juxtaposition.
4. Morningsiders- Empress
From the beginning piano lick, this track drags you in and sends you drifting and bumping over the notes. The way the melody swells, slowing down and speeding up over the track gives it an airy and fun quality, especially with the addition of strings dancing along with the piano.
5. The Young Wild- Not a One
This classic foot-stomping anthem embodies simplicity and casual cool. The music video is also so fantastic-- each musician was filmed dancing to the song individually, then played at the same time to show how everyone interpreted it differently. The inspiring lyrics and uplifting piano lick add that inexplicable "feel good" quality.
6. Matt Costa- Mr. Pitiful
The track starts off so simply-- just a thumping piano lick and climbing vocals layered together. As soon as the drum kicks in, the song builds to a really slow, powerful chorus before trending back to upbeat and poppy. The subtle instrumentation and complicated vocal melody play together in a truly delightful way, trailing off delicately and wonderfully.
7. Beat Connection- Silver Screen
This track has some of the more unique instrumentation on this playlist, incorporating a wind section and a multitude of percussive instruments. It starts off simply, with each instrument building the track up one by one until it's a cacophony of laid back sound. The rhythmic, almost chanted nature of the chorus creates a strong, irresistible beat.
8. Tanlines- Slipping Away
This hazy, dreamy track perfectly mixes wistful vocals with a driving drum beat. The basic construction of the song-- basically just guitar, vocals, and drums, creates a beautifully modulated, addictive track.
9. Fort Frances- Days Get Heavy
The simple construction of the verse-- just vocals and a basic synthy line, create a stark contrast with the anthem-like quality of the chorus that's unexpected and completely welcome. The pleading vocals and piano riff build up to a strong and fantastic finish making this an awesome track for when you're more in the mood to rock out.
10. Wolf Parade- I'll Believe in Anything
This has been my favorite track since the beginning of the spring and I definitely don't think I'll tire of it anytime soon. The folksy, gritty vocals float over the driving guitar lick and pounding drum beat, nailing serendipitous simplicity. It's one of those songs that you slow-bounce to at a concert while shouting out the lyrics-- the swelling and crescendoing of the track gives that full body mind experience. When the guitar kicks in after the bridge, it's impossible not to smile and head bop along.
