Summer’s being shy, and so are you. Here are some tracks to ease you out from behind the clouds.

Bella Bespoke , Dumbhead (AU)

The perfect coming of age tune, add Bella Bespoke to the list of songs you’d listen to while driving through a city tunnel. The very essence of the opening of summer, lies within this new release; parked at a lookout, bottles sliding off the car’s hood, smoking with your friends, a giddy uncertainty circling the air. The vocals, delivered with a mix of sardonic wit and earnestness, convey a whimsical and introspective narrative on individuality and the nuances of personal identity. The production retains a raw edge and with its experimental melodies it has a distinct and memorable                                                                               character. While you’re at it, add Drive and Sally Constituent to                                                                             the playlist as well.  Album Credits: Harry Baker

Riot, Jack Gaby (AU)

Riot is Jack Gaby’s debut single, a self-proclaimed love song to activists and revolutionaries. The lyrics are compellingly sensitive, enhanced by Stella Donnelly’s dreamy backing vocals. As the summer prevails, efforts for our true desires come to a point and we are either overcome with contentment or horribly disappointed with anything and everything. Riot illustrates the crushing urge we have to do, with gracefulness. Who wants to wait anymore, why not set it on fire? Album Credits: Grace Juniper Goodwin

Don’t Delete The Kisses, Wolf Alice (UK)

This track wins Best Summer Anthem. With the heat rolling in and time spent mulling in the park we will inevitably turn to romance to fill our days. Our glasses will sweat as we try catching the eye of strangers in gardens and we’ll crinkle our linen, dreaming of when we let it show. Don’t Delete The Kisses combines elements of shoegaze, indie rock, and dream pop to create a lush, immersive landscape. Ethereal synths and shimmering guitar lines lay the foundation for Ellie Rowsell’s intimate vocals. Get ready for a confessional as you catch eyes at that stupid party. Album Credits:                                                                         Dirty Hit Records

Easy On Your Own?, Alvvays (CA)

Well-known for their hit song Archie, Marry Me Alvvays released their latest album, “Blue Rev” back in 2022, including this perfect introduction for the summer months that delves into self-discovery, independence, and the complexities of personal growth. With Molly Rankin’s wistful vocals and a driving rhythm this track captures the essence of Alvvays’ sound – melancholic yet hopeful, introspective yet universally accessible. This summer is for escaping the monochromatic hallways and the dull knife of the expected. Make sure to listen to the rest of the album in time for                                                                           their Paris show on July 2^nd. Album Credits:  Polyvinyl Records

The Knife, Deeper (US)

This haunting and atmospheric track blends post-punk elements with a modern indie sensibility. The vocals, often delivered in a detached and almost ethereal manner, contribute to the track’s moody and introspective ambiance. We will feel this summer like a fever dream, crossing lines, speaking nonsense, all while being fully aware. But, be careful not to fall on the knife. Deeper will be closing the summer in Paris, playing on September 5 at Le Hassard Ludique. Album Credits: Fire Talk Records

Nigel Hitter, Shame (UK)

From Shame’s sophomore album, ‘Drunk Tank Pink’, Nigel Hitter is a vibrant and driving track. Characterised by its punchy guitar riffs and sense of urgency, accompanied by Charlie Steen’s vocals which deliver a sense of frustration and disillusionment the track addresses monotony and the struggle for individuality within societal constraints. Its post-punk flare makes it a powerful listen and perfect to aid this transitory time. Angst is the new summer fling. Album Credits: Dead Oceans 

Look At This Face (Oh My God They’re Gorgeous), Handsome Boy Modelling School (US)

This track blends a mix of spoken word and musical elements, beginning playfully, setting a tongue-in-cheek tone that permeates the track. The production is characterised by its rich layering of sounds, including smooth beats, jazzy undertones, and cleverly sampled dialogue which contribute to the track’s distinctive and avant-garde feel. Feeling like a rough diamond that just needs a little polishing, look no further, that’s exactly what the Handsome Boy Modelling School can do for you. Album Credits: Tommy                                                                               Boy Records

2003, Josef (AU)

Josef’s most recent single 2003 is a sweet amalgamation of Bakar and Mac Miller. This smooth, slick track flows over an earnest boom bap beat, enhancing its lyrics’ reflective tone. The production, with a polished and unified sound, allows the emotional core of the song to shine through. Carrying the warmth of the day into the night, the perfect track to dim the lights to. Try this out on your stroll to the party. Album Credits: Beat Kitchen Records

I Gotta (Fall in Love), Radio Free Alice (AU)

Our friends will fall in love, and we will inevitably be sat alone at the dinner party this summer. But all is softened with this high energy track that’s for you, and not them. Noah Learmonth’s vocals are filled with a raw, heartfelt intensity while the dynamic composition keeps the tempo exhilarating.  Short, sweet, and tangy with truth, RFA bottles the passionate longing of a summer love. So, while making this your new ‘on repeat’, drink orange while they drink red and listen to the chatter that will, like all fruits of summer, rot after the fall. Album Credits: Double Drummer Music

Cigarette Packet, Sorry (UK)

This is the moment you fall off the wagon…reach for that cigarette packet, maybe by the end of it you’ll know the answers. A blend of grunge, post-punk, and electronic influences, this track is built around a driving baseline, distorted guitars, and a steady, hypnotic beat, creating a dark and moody backdrop. With an immersive sonic texture and vocals delivered with a cool, detached tone Cigarette Packet captures a sense of urban melancholy and restless energy. It’s a sign to come off too strong, and come too close this summer. Album Credits: Domino Recording Company

Now that the clouds have cleared make sure you don’t get burnt.

Listen at https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0JxUFL1Q1C6Uwnbde2rnf7?si=a820988124b447c2