Dive Deep, Float Free
The energy of summer is relentless—parties, late nights, fireworks and sun-soaked days. Fun in the sun is what makes the warm months simmer with memories, but sometimes you need a break from the heat of the moment. When it’s too hot outside to do anything but float in the pool, take the opportunity to dive into the depths of your mind. This atmospheric, introspective playlist feels like a dip in cool water for those long, hot afternoons that stretch forever.
“Universal Angel” by Guava and Maddie Ashman
“Universal Angel” is a punchy, synth-drenched electronic track by Guava—a producer, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and DJ—in collaboration with fellow Brit singer/songwriter Maddie Ashman. Buzzy, echoing notes layer and expand into a hypnotizing melody that draws you in and captures you like a rip tide. “Is this real or just a dream?” you wonder as you surrender and let the song sweep you away.
”Electric Blue” by Valley James
Lush, decadent, and haunting with a Western flair, “Electric Blue” everything you would expect from a self-described goth country musician. The single is the latest release from Valley James following the artist’s spring 2025 debut album Star, named after her hometown of Star, Idaho. Valley James’s approach to music is nothing short of cinematic. “Electric Blue” weaves a tale of love’s power to strip you bare, the shimmering synths conjuring a dramatic daydream like ghosts on a stage.
”Summertime Blue” by Norah Jones and John Legend
Norah Jones and John Legend, two of the smoothest crooners to ever groove, have collaborated for the first time on a jazzy, fluid track that feels like a cool breeze. “Summertime Blue” showcases Jones and Legend at their best. Ruminative lyrics are delivered with soulful elegance, the artists’ voices blending beautifully within every harmony. This song evokes the experience of a summer night at a jazz bar. The lights dim, a spotlight flares, and just for a moment in the crowded interior, the face of someone you once knew is illuminated.
”No Rain, No Flowers” by The Black Keys
We all know that April showers bring May flowers, but summer still has its storms and moments of melancholy despite all the sunshine. “No Rain, No Flowers” from The Black Keys’ upcoming album of the same name (out August 8) is encouragement to “stand back up and try your luck once again, don’t get stuck thinking about what it’s been.” Buzzy guitar riffs and a punchy disco beat combined with laidback vocals create a certified summer groove.
“To the Sea” by Certain Death
A little bit Western, a little bit metal, and completely rock and roll, Certain Death’s slick track “To the Sea” evokes the darkest depths of the ocean. The song’s provocative lyrics, including a callout of “Weapons masters with corporate titles,” follows in the tradition of classic songs like “Fortunate Son” and “War Pigs.” Hey, I said we were diving deep, and no depths are too dark to explore underneath the unrelenting summer sun that illuminates every corner of your subconscious if you’re willing to jump in.
