Whether you’re in your pop brat or bad bitch era this summer, we’ve got you covered. Summers are perfect when the days are long, the vibes are chill, and the music hits just right. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, tripping balls with friends, or dancing the night away, we’ve got the perfect soundtrack for every summer mood and occasion. So grab your shades, crank up the volume, and let’s dive into these picks for the summer.
For the Ultimate Summer Party: brat by Charli XCX
If you’re trying to party this summer, look no further than Charli XCX’s brat. This album (we reviewed it here) is pure, unadulterated fun, the sonic equivalent of a neon-lit beach bash. With its pulsing beats, catchy hooks, and Charli’s signature electro-pop flair, brat is tailor-made for those nights when you want to dance like nobody’s watching or maybe like everybody is. It’s so lit that even new Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has adopted the brat aesthetic for her campaign. So hit up your crew and let Charli be your party guide for the night.
For Sultry Summer Nights: Orquídeas by Kali Uchis
Kali Uchis’ Orquídeas is the perfect soundtrack for steamy summer evenings. This album sensually blends Latin rhythms with R&B smoothness, creating a lush, intoxicating aphrodisiac sound. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on a rooftop or slow dancing under the stars with your man, it’s perfect. Tracks like Te Mata will transport you to a world of passion and romance.
For Introspective Beach Days: Hit Me Hard and Soft by Billie Eilish
If you’re in your deep introspective era and need a moment to pause and reflect. That’s where Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft comes in. This album is perfect for those quiet days at the beach when you're lying on the sand and smoking a joint, getting lost in thought as the waves crash nearby. Billie’s haunting vocals create an intimate atmosphere that’s ideal for introspection. Tracks like The Greatest showcase her vocal prowess and emotional depth, making this album a go-to for when you need a little soul-searching with your sun-soaking.
For Poolside Vibes: Tyla by Tyla
When you’re lounging by the pool with a glass of Henny, you need an album that’s as refreshing as it is smooth. Enter Tyla’s self-titled debut. This South African artist brings the perfect blend of Afrobeats and pop that'll get those hips swaying. The infectious rhythms and the singer’s smooth vocals on tracks like the viral hit Water create the ideal tropical poolside atmosphere—upbeat enough to keep the energy flowing but chill enough to let you relax in style. It's the musical equivalent of a perfect summer day.
For Summer Night Pre-game: att. by Young Miko
The Sun has gone down, and now it's time to hit the club, but first pre-game with Young Miko's att. It’s just the right mood for when you and your peeps are getting ready for a night of debauchery no one will remember tomorrow. This album is made for when the night is young and the world feels full of possibility. Young Miko's bold lyrics and the album's mix of reggaeton, trap, and hip-hop create a vibe that's both energising and adventurous. Tracks like Tamagotchi get the blood flowing.
For Empowering Beach Workouts: Born in the Wild by Tems
For those summer workouts where you’re trying to make sure your summer body is still bodying, Tems’ Born in the Wild is a motivational soundtrack. This album is all about embracing your power and pushing through challenges—exactly what you need when you’re going for that extra mile. Tems’ powerful vocals and the album’s mix of Afrobeats and R&B will keep you pumped and moving. Tracks like Me & U are perfect for finding your rhythm and embracing your inner strength as you sweat it out under the summer sun.
For an Ethereal Sunset Picnic: Amama by Crumb
As the day winds down and the sky turns golden, it's time to spread out that picnic blanket and let Crumb's Amama take you on an ayahuasca fever dream. This album's psychedelic rock with jazz influences creates a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere that's perfect for recentering your ID and challenging your Ego; Freud could never. The lush soundscapes and hypnotic vocals on tracks like Dust Bunny will transport you to a blissed-out alternate state of mind. It's the ideal soundtrack for those magical summer moments when time seems to stand still.
For Indie Summer Festivals: For Your Consideration by Empress Of
Summer festival season is upon us, and Empress Of's For Your Consideration is the perfect album to get you in the mood. With its blend of electro-pop and indie sensibilities, this album captures the eclectic, free-spirited vibe of your favourite summer fest. Lorely Rodriguez's powerful vocals and the album's danceable beats will have you swaying in a field full of fellow music lovers in no time. Tracks like Kiss Me (featuring Rina Sawayama) are destined to be summer festival anthems.
For a Bad Bitch Summer: City Cinderella by JT
If you still that bitch, been that bitch, and forever will be that bitch, then JT’s (one half of the City Girls) City Cinderella is the summer soundtrack for you. This album is about all things bad bitch and living your best life. JT's bold lyrics are instructions on how to give main character energy in your own summer blockbuster. Her unapologetic attitude on tracks like 90s Baby is the invincible swag every bad bitch needs.
Nine perfectly curated albums to soundtrack every mood and moment of your summer. Whether you're looking to party, reflect, relax, or just keep that main character energy, these artists have got you covered.