MANILA, Philippines – It happens incrementally, that shift from cool nights to sweltering evenings. One day you’re in a sweater and the next even your threadbare cotton pambahay is too much for the humidity. Lucky for you, we’ve got you covered in the Kick Back and Relax department, because while we may not be able to do anything about summer being right around the corner, we can recommend some music that will help you cool off.
After all, plugging in your speakers is a lot cheaper than running the airconditioner all afternoon.
Masego & Medasin – ‘Sunday Vibes’
Kicking off this playlist is an oldie but a goodie (and by that I mean this track was released a lifetime ago aka 2016) from Masego & Medasin, aptly named “Sunday Vibes.” The sax on this track practically defines the “chill” in chillhop, and we dare you not to dance. Speaking of throwbacks…
CRW – ‘Electric Feel (MGMT Cover)’
Without a doubt you had this song on repeat from the very first time you heard it. “Electric Feel” is an absolute gem of a song as much as it is an earworm, but this cover by CRW is sure to get you to fall in love with it all over again.
Mura Masa – ‘What If I Go? (Nighttime Version) feat. Bonzai’
Those familiar with Mura Masa may be surprised to find him on a playlist that’s meant to be chill. The UK-based artist may be a certified bop factory, but this slowed down version is just the right mix of sweet, sweltering vocals against laidback, bare-boned instrumentals. Think: all of the catchiness of his songs but stripped down—magical, just like the season.
Jai Wolf – ‘Indian Summer’
The tweaked vocals serving as the backing trap beat to Jai Wolf’s “Indian Summer” is beautifully juxtaposed with nostalgic piano and swelling synths that are anthemic for a road trip with friends. Take your cue from the music video and go have adventures. Embrace the freedom that summer offers (even if it’s just for the weekend) with this as inspiration.
Matt Simmons – ‘Catch & Release (Deepend Remix)’
“Catch & Release” is practically already a classic in its own right, but for those who have been sleeping on this track since it came out in 2015, you’re welcome. Perfect for the shore, the mountains, the city and all the roads in between, this song by Matt Simons is guaranteed to be a staple no matter what the season.
Diplo – ‘Get It Right (feat. Mø)’
Diplo and Mø get it right (pun intended) with this track. The song starts off with a blues-y piano intro but kicks in at just the right spot with that beat drop (and there’s nothing worse than waiting too long for a beat to drop). This bop is chill enough to laze by the beach with, but hype enough to keep you bobbing your head on the drive there.
(Bonus points for the video, because their dancing is adorable. 10/10 putting it on loop just to learn those moves.)
Basenji – ‘Can’t Get Enough’
Would it really be a summer playlist without a song that’s shamelessly twee? Basenji’s “Can’t Get Enough” is so sweet it’s practically made of dirty ice cream and sugar cones, but so refreshing that you’re going to want seconds (or in this case, to play it over and over again).
Major Lazer – ‘Wave (feat. Kali Uchis)’
Major Lazer and Kali Uchis serve up some serious island vibes in “Waves.” Driven by Marley-esque guitars and buoyed by Uchis’ always spectacular vocals, this is sure to make you wish you were at the beach. Or if you already are, make you want to dance down the shore towards the sunset.
Phoney Ppl – ‘Why iii Love The Moon’
Summer may be all about sunrises and sunsets, but clear night skies make the moon that much more breathtaking — especially when you’re enjoying the view out of town. The summer moon is highly underrated, just like Phoney Ppl, but this groove-worthy ode to it is sure to change your mind.
Lianna La Havas – ‘Unstoppable (FKJ remix)’
Is there anything more epic than Lianna La Havas joining forces with FKJ? The constant heat of living in a tropical country may make it feel like it’s always summer, but this track is the perfect reminder for how it’s supposed to feel: endless, and most importantly, unstoppable.
Listen to the entire playlist here:
– Rappler.com
There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.