By: Heather
As summer draws to a close it’s only natural to reflect on all the great times we had. Drinking with our friends, barbecues, laying on the beach, these are only some of the things we will cling onto during the frigid winter months until next summer is finally here. As a tribute to those great memories I have compiled a list of summer anthems that were no doubt the soundtrack to my summer, hope you guys enjoy!
1. Bassnectar – Unlimited
Released on June 17th, Bassnectar’s newest release only reinforces the widely held belief that he is, indeed, the king of EDM. The 15 track album is a fantastic combination of head-banging jams and mellow euphoric melodies that, as a fan, remind me of his earlier music a la divergent spectrum and for that, we thank him. Yet another giant success for one of the most popular names in the genre to date. Congrats, Lo!
Favorite tracks:
2. Music is the Drug
4. Mind Tricks
6. Level Up
14. Rising, Rising
2. Dirty Heads – Dirty Heads
It is absolutely no surprise that the Dirty Heads delivered a phenomenal 5th studio release. Their mellow beats and optimistic lyrics are infectious and create a calm atmosphere for listeners to kick back and enjoy. Perfect for any occasion, the Dirty Heads should most definitely make their way onto your summer playlist!
Favorite Tracks:
1. Thats All I Need
2. Doesn’t Make You Right
3. Feeling Good
9. Smoke & Dream
3. Blink 182 – California
The long anticipated return of Blink 182 is finally here and it’s like they never left the scene in the first place. The pop punk geniuses released their seventh studio album on July 21st and it has been at the top of my road trip playlists ever since! Although the difference between this album and previous releases might be virtually undetectable to some, this is the first album that features co-vocalist/guitarist Matt Skiba who replaced famous lead vocalist Tom DeLonge, who’s last album with the band was released in 2011. Skiba is, of course, accompanied by the legendary Mark Hoppus on vocals!
Favorite Tracks:
2. Bored To Death
3. She’s Out Of Her Mind
10. Teenage Satellites
11. Left Alone
4. Drake – Views
Drake’s popularity has skyrocketed in the recent past and this album is just one of many reasons why. Several songs, including the infamous Hotline Bling and One Dance have captivated music lovers, whether they were a Drake fan from the very beginning or just getting to know his music. His new found confidence and self-sufficient attitude is more than apparent throughout the entire album. It is clear now that he is not as soft as he was once perceived and he is using that motivation to make some truly great new music. A+ job, Drizzy!
Favorite Tracks:
3. U With Me?
5. Hype
8. With You (feat. PARTYNEXTDOOR)
14. Child’s Play
5. Nick Jonas – Last Year Was Complicated
Nick Jonas’s sophomore album is nothing short of fantastic. While I, myself, don’t usually enjoy music that could be placed under the category of the “top 40”, this release is truly impressive. I immediately recognized how much he has grown up since the Jonas Brothers and his solo talent shines in each soulful track. There is a song for every mood whether it be sad breakup music, pre-game jams, or just songs to belt out at the top of your lungs when you drive around with your best friends. Even if you’re skeptical, make sure to check out this album.
Favorite Tracks:
1. Voodoo
4. Chainsaw
6. Bacon (feat. Ty Dolla Sign)
9. Don’t Make Me Choose
Bonus Top Five Single Track Releases!
- D.R.A.M – Broccoli
- The Chainsmokers – Don’t Let Me Down
- Future – Low Life
- Zeds Dead – Blame
Haute & Dangerous 