A summer playlist to enjoy as you walk out of your final exam
Symphony – Clean Bandit ft. Zara Larsson
This song is one I will be blasting with friends all summer, reminding me of how happy I am to be surrounded by them. Larsson’s voice and the mixed mid and fast tempo arrangement instantly brings the ‘feels’ of comfort and love. Whether it’s the patio or the beach, you will love this one all summer. The best thing about it is the video companion. It features the story of two gay black men and their life together, which only adds to the feels.
Kyle McCord
Can I Sit Next To You – Spoon
Dancing along a funky, cool guitar lick and a simple drum beat, “Can I Sit Next to You” bursts with sunlight — its loose, sexy drawl evokes wayfarers and backyard beers. The raucous, staccato piano evolves into electronic sounds that beat around the rhythm of the tune, all holding onto the simple, impermeable staying power of the guitar. Britt Daniel screams into the microphone between vicious phrases as the music evolves — resolving from stadium rock into a digital, beautiful mess.
Karlis Wilde
Passionfruit – Drake
“Passionfruit” has an exciting dancehall sound that is bursting with energy. Whether at the club, on a beach or just driving around, it’s an excellent summer jam for more reasons than one. The lyricism is playful yet sensitive and the euphoric beat puts to shame those who think that Drake only makes sad, downbeat songs about love and relationships. Not to mention that Moodyman’s intro hints that DJ’s are going to be playing this song back in the clubs and at parties. As this song was curated through the aid of alcohol, Drake is getting all ready in the mood for good times in the summer sun.
Emi Zibaei
Call On Me (Ryan Riback Remix) – Starley
By now, you’ve definitely heard this mix on the radio — however it didn’t always sound this way. The Australian singer’s debut single was originally released in July 2016 on a moodier, and dialed back, note. However, with more views and streams than the original track, Ryan Riback’s remix of “Call On Me” has me in summer mode already. Walking around my apartment singing along to the track, I haven’t stopped belting out the lyrics as if I too have a love interest to relate.
Manjot Bhullar
Hallelujah Money – Gorillaz
Haunting 808 bass rings out in the new Gorillaz release “Hallelujah Money” featuring Benjamin Clementine with haunting vocals that are reminiscent of a preacher addressing his congregation. Their first major release since “Plastic Beach” way back in 2010, the song is one of many on their forthcoming album, Humanz set to release this April 28. The lyrics contain many references to the Trump administration and the current state of America —the song itself, a commentary on the worship of money.
Matthew Coons