Ten Albums to Get You in the Summer Mood
Summer is here, bringing with it all the sunshine, pool parties, cookouts, and excitement we’ve been waiting for. If you're anything like me, summer is all about enjoying the warmth and good vibes. And what better way to amplify those feelings than with the perfect soundtrack? Whether you're jamming out with your AirPods, blasting tunes on a speaker, or cruising with the windows down, here are ten albums that will definitely get you in that summer mood.
1
Tyler, The Creator, Igor
(2019)
Though some may associate it with spring, Igor emanates a distinctly summer vibe. Tyler, The Creator's masterpiece is packed with dynamic tracks like “Earfquake,” “I Think,” “A Boy Is a Gun,” and “New Magic Wand.” These energetic tunes are balanced by more introspective pieces such as “Puppet,” “Gone Gone/Thank You,” “Running Out of Time,” and “Are We Still Friends?” Igor is a rollercoaster of emotions, making you laugh, dance, and reminisce about fleeting summer loves.
2
Young THug, So much fun
(2019)
Young Thug’s heavily underappreciated album So Much Fun hasn’t left my rotation since it first dropped. Tracks such as “Hot”, “Surf”, “Light It Up”, “The London”, and “Jumped Out The Window” are all great songs you can play at a function or a kickback, and instantly change the energy in the room. You can’t go wrong with this album.
3
The Beach Boys, pet sounds
(1966)
Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys released Pet Sounds in 1966, and despite that, the album still sounds fresh and exciting with every listen. Tracks like “You Still Believe in Me,” “God Only Knows,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” are perfect for lazy days in the sun, evoking a sense of nostalgia and joy.
4
Drake, honestly, nevermind
(2022)
Despite recent controversies, it's hard to deny Drake’s knack for creating hits. Honestly, Nevermind is filled with club anthems like “Sticky,” “Currents,” and “Massive,” as well as more laid-back tracks such as “A Keeper,” “Liability,” and “Flight’s Booked.” This album, though often overlooked, provides excellent summer vibes.
5
Tampe impala, currents
(2015)
Kevin Parker’s Currents is a psychedelic rock album that had fans reevaluating their lives, making this album their entire personality. Songs like “The Moment,” “The Less I Know the Better,” “Let It Happen,” and “New Person, Same Old Mistakes” encapsulate the essence of summer with their dreamy melodies, vibrant rhythms, and introspective lyrics. The sun-soaked vibes and lush production make Currents an essential album for summer, perfect for everything from beach outings to late-night drives.
6
supahbadd, boom boom room
(2022)
SupahBadd’s Boom Boom Room was made to be blasted at full volume at a summer darty. Songs like “FREESTYLE BREAKDOWN,” “QUICKIE,” “COME HERE” and “CREEPN ROUND” is filled with high-energy beats and unapologetic lyrics!
7
Radiohead, in rainbows
(2008)
Radiohead’s In Rainbows is, in my opinion, their finest work and one of the greatest albums of all time. Austin Butler said it best: “It’s an album for any mood you’re in.” Whether you’re joyous or reflective, tracks like “Nude,” “Bodysnatchers,” “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi,” and “All I Need” are perfect for every mood the summer brings.
8
rema, rave & roses
(2022)
Rave & Roses by Rema is the perfect album to ignite your summer spirit. Nigerian superstar Rema blends Afrobeat, pop, and trap to create an infectious album that's impossible to resist. With tracks like “Calm Down,” and “Soundgasm,” this album will elevate any summer gathering.
9
don toliver, life of a don
(2021)
Don Toliver remains one of the most underrated talents in the industry. Life of a Don features hauntingly beautiful tracks like “Double Standards,” “Drugs N Hella Melodies,” “Crossfaded,” and “You.” Each song highlights Toliver’s unique vocal and lyrical abilities, making a compelling case for his deserved recognition. What makes it a great summer album is its blend of chill, atmospheric beats and catchy hooks that perfectly capture the carefree and vibrant energy of summer. Whether you're lounging by the pool, driving with the windows down, or enjoying a sunset with friends, Life of a Don provides the perfect soundtrack for those unforgettable summer moments.
10
ye, the life of pablo
(2016)
Many of the songs on The Life of Pablo feel like they were made to be played at a summer function, or during a nighttime walk with friends. “Fade,” “FML,” “Father Strech My Hands Pt 1,” “No More Parties in LA,” and “30 Hours” are all classics you can put on to reminisce about 2016.