Ready to roll the windows down and turn the music up
As the weather starts to get warmer, I always notice a big shift in my music taste. When the sun starts shining, I immediately start reaching for my summer playlist. Rap and house music tend to get me through the long winter months, but every year I find myself switching back to soft rock and alternative music. A few albums that always define that transition for me are Hearts, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, All Things Must Pass, Currents and Sleep Through the Static.
1. Hearts – America
This album holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my friends and a drive to Yosemite in California. Hearts by America is a warm, breezy soft rock album that feels perfect for road trips. My top three songs to introduce someone to this album are “Sister Golden Hair,” “Tomorrow” and “Daisy Jane.”
2. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Ms. Lauryn Hill
Ms. Lauryn Hill may not have released a large discography, but she created a truly flawless, no-skip album. Blending reggae and hip-hop, this album is perfect for drives to the beach. I loved it so much that I probably annoyed my sister with how often I played the same songs. Although the album is full of well-known classics, my two personal favorites are “When It Hurts So Bad” and “Tell Him.”
3. All Things Must Pass – George Harrison
Another classic album that is perfect for relaxing in warm weather is All Things Must Pass. I frequently play this album whenever I go backpacking. Classified as folk rock, it has a calm, laid-back sound that makes it especially fitting for spending time outdoors. Some of my favorite songs on the album are “If Not for You,” “I’d Have You Anytime” and “My Sweet Lord.”
4. Currents – Tame Impala
Currents brings me back to so many memories, and it feels especially full circle now that I’m going to a Tame Impala concert this year. There truly is no other artist quite like Tame Impala, with such a beautiful blend of psychedelic and synth-pop sounds. The album feels nostalgic, dreamy and emotional all at once, making it perfect for hanging out with friends in the summer. At the moment, my favorite song from Currents is “Yes I’m Changing.”
5. Sleep Through The Static – Jack Johnson
I’ve grown up listening to Jack Johnson, and I still love his music today. My mom had a few of his CDs that she would regularly play in the car while singing along, with Sleep Through the Static being the one she played most often. This folk-rock album is perfect for relaxing on the beach with a fun drink and snack. Two of my favorite upbeat songs from the album are “Hope” and “If I Had Eyes.”
These five albums have become some of my favorite warm-weather listens because each one holds a different memory and feeling for me. Whether I’m backpacking, driving, laying on the beach, or spending time with friends, these albums find a way to create a great atmosphere.