It seems that summer has been full of new releases, and teasers for fall albums. Over the past few months, there’s been a lot to sink your teeth into. I’ve collected some of my favorite songs of summer onto a Spotify playlist that I will continue to update as I prepare to travel this week! On it you will find…

“Anaconda” by Nicki Minaj: Nicki’s booty-shaking song is rich with empowerment, humor, and all-around goodness. It’s an anthem for thick girls, man-eaters, and powerful ladies akin to Lady Gaga’s G.U.Y…. but better. Since it’s release, this song has become a staple in my routine–getting ready for the party, heading to the party, at the party, after the party, etc. And don’t forgo the video.

“Eyes of the Muse” by King Tuff: Following the release of his self titled album in 2012, I was a die-hard King Tuff fan, and I’m pleased with the first of two singles he’s released from his upcoming. The weirdo garage rock guru melds shimmering guitar, angst-ridden lyrics, and danceable melodies so seemlessly. It’s a summer jam for sure, and a song that’ll keep you warm through the beginning of fall.

“Bad Timing” by Pony Village: I’ve had the pleasure of catching Pony Village twice this summer. I’m a huge fan of their early-Death Cab-esque sound and all around stage presence. Up until recently, I never took the time to listen to their recordings–definitely worth sharing, and a local band to keep your eyes on.

“Avant Gardener” by Courtney Barnett: Courtney’s performance was a stand out to me at Pickathon. She is completely herself and completely rock n’ roll. Since first seeing her at the festival, I’ve listened to  The Double Ep: A Sea of Split Peas maybe 100 times. “Avant Gardner” is a ballad about breaking the mundane with dire consequences. Barnett delivers dark subject matter with humor and apathy… it’s perfect in its relatability.

“Raspberry Seed” by PHOX: PHOX released one of my favorite albums of summer. Each song is a beautiful, well crafted, and often-heartbreaking tribute to loves lost and what is left. “Raspberry Seed” is a long track that I feel really encompasses the mood of the album. The cutting lyrics, honestly, and tenderness of it all is woozy but crisp.

“Brooklyn Baby” by Lana Del Rey: No summer playlist is complete without indulging in a guilty pleasure. But honestly, Del Rey’s album Ultraviolent doesn’t make me feel that guilty. It’s solid. “Brooklyn Baby” is a breather from the heavier, heart-wrecking, gut-wrenching stuff on the album. Del Rey lifts her head from the Sad Girl puddle and delivers an ironic pop song about, what else, annoying people that live in Brooklyn. I love the song–thank god for artists who can poke fun at themselves.

Plus a ton more! And more to come!

Check out the playlist on Spotify: