Written by Amani Rizwan

Thumbnail & Banner photo by Columbia Pictures

As the days grow longer and the nights warmer, the allure of summer grows stronger with promises of higher temperatures, adventure, and nostalgia. It's a season where anything seems possible, and there’s nothing better to commemorate that with than new music. Below are some album recommendations spanning from as early as the 60s to now that encapsulate the essence of summer. So, before reading on, I’d suggest you grab your shades, and slather on some sunscreen.

Note: This is not a ranking.

The Rise & Fall of a Midwest Princess by Chapelle Roan (2023)

Up-and-coming pop princess, Chapelle Roan’s debut record has burst onto the music scene, exploding with glittery fun that’ll have you dancing around your friend’s basement without care. With standout tracks like "Red Wine Supernova," "HOT TO GO!," and "Casual," Roan showcases her prowess as both a captivating vocalist and a masterful storyteller. Whether you're craving carefree moments of racing down the highway, dancing in your friend's basement, or introspective reflections on summer love, this record delivers a soundtrack for every mood and occasion. And as Roan continues to carve her path in the pop music landscape, it's clear that she's on the brink of inheriting the crown of pop princess from the likes of Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter.

Can’t Buy A Thrill by Steely Dan (1972)

This is yet another debut record that baffled both rock fans and critics back in the 70s. At the time, few artists had navigated the realm of rock ‘n roll with the finesse of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, the masterminds behind Steely Dan. This album, a masterpiece in its own right, exudes a coolness that sets Steely Dan apart as the epitome of American rock. With hit singles like "Do It Again" and "Reelin' In The Years," Steely Dan effortlessly captivated listeners with their rock-jazz-Latin fusion. Each track on the record is meticulously crafted, offering a blend of slick instrumentation and stylish performances that raise the bar for musical excellence. Whether you're cruising with your friends or lounging by the pool, the album's eclectic mix of funky grooves, country twangs, and soulful ballads provides the perfect soundtrack for summer escapades.

Sunburn by Dominic Fike (2023)

Now, I know this album wasn’t received too warmly by critics, but listening to it you can almost feel the heat radiating from the pavement as you bask in the sun's warm embrace. While the album delves into Fike's past, it also highlights his versatile talents as a songwriter, vocalist, rapper, and notably, an underrated guitarist. With a hazy, breezy vibe, the record often feels like a tribute to California, drawing influences from 2000s pop and West Coast pop-punk. Stand-out tracks include, “How Much is Weed?”, “Think Fast (feat. Weezer), and “Ant Pile.” The record’s infectious beats set the mood for lazy days by the pool or spontaneous beach trips. Clocking in at just ten tracks, each song is perfectly tailored, devoid of any filler, and serves as a sun-soaked snapshot of Fike's recent experiences.

Supernatural by Santana (1999)

Supernatural marks a pivotal moment in Santana's illustrious career, which had already spanned over three decades by the time of its production. As a comeback and label debut in the '90s, the album is a star-studded celebration, perfectly tailored for summer. With its vibrant Latin rock groove and tight horn charts, the music pulses with the sweltering heat of the summer, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its infectious rhythms. One standout track, "Smooth," captures the essence of a hot, sweaty summer with its irresistible melody bound to linger in your mind long after the song ends. Recorded in just three takes, it exudes the raw energy of a band in their element, cranking up the volume and delivering a performance that resonates with listeners on a visceral level. For those of you looking to lose yourself in the rhythmic sway of palm trees, the salty breeze of coastal shores, and Santana's iconic guitar riffs, this is the album for you. Whether you're sipping cocktails by the beach or dancing under the stars, this album infuses every moment with a touch of magic and wanderlust.

Voulez-Vous by ABBA (1978)

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a lot of pop albums struggle with a disjointed feel due to the dominance of singles over album tracks. However, ABBA’s sixth album, "Voulez-Vous" stands out as a cohesive masterpiece from start to finish. It's a solid gold scorcher that captures the essence of disco's heyday and reminds us of ABBA's unparalleled ability to craft infectious melodies and irresistible grooves. The disco resurgence sparked by "Saturday Night Fever" heavily influenced about half of "Voulez-Vous," infusing it with the funky beats reminiscent of the Bee Gees' megahit era. However, the album also featured soft, lyrical Europop ballads like "I Have a Dream" and "Chiquitita," which harked back to the group's folk music roots from the '60s. "Voulez-Vous”, start to finish, is the perfect soundtrack for both the brightest summer days and the darkest summer nights. If anything, it should come with a warning label that says, “Caution: May induce uncontrollable dancing.”

Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band by the Beatles (1967)

Upon its release, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" was hailed as a groundbreaking masterpiece, proving that popular music could rival the artistic depth of genres like jazz and classical. Its ambitious concept of portraying a fictional band on a comeback journey signalled the dawn of the album era, setting a new standard for musical innovation and creativity. While the album's lyrics may stray from typical Summer of Love themes, its musical landscape is a marvel of inventiveness. Utilizing double-tracking, tape effects, and studio technology, tracks like "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds," "Mr. Kite," and "Good Morning Good Morning" showcased a dream-like haze and immersive soundscapes that captivated listeners. "Sgt. Pepper's" revolutionized not only the music itself but also its presentation, from the iconic album sleeve to the groundbreaking finale of "A Day in the Life." Its influence was profound, marking a clear before and after in pop music history. The album takes listeners through a psychedelic journey through the whimsical landscapes of summer, where every day is a technicolour adventure.

Coastal Grooves by Blood Orange (2011)

During the peak of chillwave and the surf rock revival, Coastal Grooves emerged as a standout album that effortlessly blended in with the cool crowd while maintaining its own distinct identity. Originating from the aftermath of Hynes' previous band's breakup, Blood Orange began as a side project before evolving into a solo endeavour. His debut album fused together the aesthetics of vintage Vogue magazines with the musical legacies of iconic acts like Sly & The Family Stone and Jimi Hendrix. Coastal Grooves showcased Hynes' exceptional musical prowess, with jaw-dropping performances that highlighted his evolution into one of the most prolific songwriters of the past decade. This album's boldness and brashness are tempered by a good-natured and approachable vibe, making it the perfect soundtrack for those seeking an indie movie trailer-esque summer reminiscent of "Lady Bird" or "The Perks of Being a Wallflower." Ultimately, Coastal Grooves propelled Hynes towards genuine fame, solidifying his place as a musical force to be reckoned with. With its dreamy synth-pop vibes, Blood Orange's album is the perfect companion for sunset walks along the shoreline and moonlit rendezvous by the sea.

Call Me if You Get Lost by Tyler, the Creator (2021)

Erupting with kaleidoscopic synthpop, soulful ballads, and jazzy elements, Call Me if You Get Lost will take you on a journey through Tyler the Creator’s eclectic and enduring career. It's a refreshing and inspired choice, blending nostalgia with irreverence and perfectly showcasing the artist's strengths; this album offers a sense of freedom, allowing him to experiment with tone, texture, and genre. While most songs are short and punchy, there are also two epic pieces, each nearly 10 minutes long, that showcase the artist's range and versatility. The album brings together the two sides of Tyler, the Creator's persona – the hard-hitting rapper and the sensitive, melodic experimentalist. Lyrically, the album is wild and unpredictable, mirroring the stylistic shifts in the music. It's clear that the artist has diverse tastes and a willingness to push boundaries rather than conform to trends. Overall, "Call Me If You Get Lost" is the perfect soundtrack for summer that can travel with you just about anywhere, with its vibrant energy and idiosyncratic soundscapes.

Heaven or Las Vegas by Cocteau Twins (1990)

I won’t lie to you, it’s almost impossible to understand most of the lyrics on this record. Amidst Robin Guthrie's shimmering guitar strumming, Elizabeth Fraser's ethereal vocals bend and twist into enigmatic shapes, evoking a sense of mystery and allure. While her singing may seem cryptic at times, the Cocteau Twins' music has always had an otherworldly quality, often described as heavenly by their devoted fans. Their unique sound is a result of Fraser's unconventional vocal delivery and Guthrie's unconventional guitar style, accompanied by Simon Raymonde's contributions on bass and keyboards. Together, they created a beguiling sonic landscape that defied traditional pop conventions. With "Heaven or Las Vegas," the band explodes into a technicolour frenzy, each note painting a vivid picture of a purple-orange sunset disappearing over the horizon. While Fraser's lyrics may not always be easy to decipher, they add emotional depth and complexity to the music. On this album, her words take on added significance, infusing the songs with a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. Despite its otherworldly sound, the album is remarkably concise, with most tracks clocking in around three-and-a-half minutes. In just 38 minutes, "Heaven or Las Vegas" transports listeners to a sun-drenched paradise, making it the perfect soundtrack for indie fans who appreciate jangly guitars and dreamy melodies. It's the ideal accompaniment for moments spent basking in the warm glow of the sun, with the scent of sunscreen lingering in the air and the sand between your toes.

Mt. Joy by Mt. Joy (2018)

With its energetic melodies, rich harmonies, and thoughtful lyrics, Mt Joy's self-titled album offers an enjoyable listening experience that's perfect for fans of folk music. While the album touches on themes of drug use and casual relationships, it ultimately delves into a sincere quest for meaning. Tracks like "Silver Lining" blend straightforward rock ‘n’ roll with profound messages, urging listeners to, “tell the ones you love you love them”. Throughout the album, singer Matt Quinn emerges as a relatable figure, navigating artistic frustration and lost love with a sense of wistful nostalgia. Set against a backdrop of rootsy Americana, Mt Joy's music is tailor-made for outdoor festivals and lazy days spent in campsites and vans. With its blend of introspective lyrics and infectious melodies, this album is the perfect companion for those seeking solace and connection amidst the serenity of nature, whether you're hiking through lush forests or picnicking atop sun-dappled meadows.

Overall, each album on this eclectic list offers a unique listening experience that’ll be more than ideal through the sun-soaked landscapes of the season. Whether you find yourself dancing under the stars or lounging by the pool, these records are the perfect companions to navigate the highs and lows of summer's embrace. And while this selection captures the essence of the season, there are countless other albums and artists that almost made the list, such as “Cuts & Bruises” by Inhaler, “Reading Writing And Arithmetic” by The Sundays, "Inbetween Dreams" by Jack Johnson, "All Things Must Pass" by George Harrison, and the "Surf's Up" Soundtrack. So, as you venture forth into the summer, don’t forget to crank up the volume, and make the most of the sunny months ahead!

The Perfect Soundtrack to the Summer