Monday, July 2, 2012

First Ever Guest Post! ECM Shares Her Perfect Summer Playlist



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Hello lovely readers! It's me (ECM) here to give you a playlist of summer songs to keep you entertained while at the beach, by the pool, or on the roof! This is an eclectic mix of tunes - it's got everything I want to listen to while having a boozy popsicle and soaking up the sun.


We'll kick things off with Midnight Train to Georgia because, honestly, nothing says summer to me like Gladys Knights' soulful crooning. Also...Georgia is a state where its warm. And summer is hot. (E.S.N.*: she's a scientist**)




Segue into something upbeat and punchy to make sure you're not falling asleep and getting a sunburn. Neon Trees', Everybody Talks makes me want to dance around in a circle with my girlfriends, and I guarantee even if you're not the crazy dancing type, you'll at least tap your toes.



One Fine Day, because on a day when you can just hang out in gorgeous weather...it's always good to have some '60s girl groups to remind you how much fun a summer fling can be.




Gunpowder & Lead is a recent discovery for me (thank you NBC and The Voice for making me fall in love with Blake Shelton, and his wife Miranda Lambert), but nothing makes me feel more empowered than listening to Lambert detail how she's going to repay a guy who hit her. And, if you're going to spend a day in a bathing suit, a little extra empowerment can't hurt.




You Don't Know Me by Ben Folds featuring Regina Spektor is perfect music for chilling. The combination of beat, vocals and electric violin (I think) blend perfectly for easy listening.



Falling by Ben Kweller is the best description of the start of a relationship that I have ever heard in song. My relationship with Summer (the season) is the longest one I've ever had, and yet every year, I feel like there's something new and fun to discover about it.



The Head and the Heart are an indie-folk band, formed in Seattle is reminiscent of Vampire Weekend's earlier records, but with a slower and more relaxed groove. Just listen to this one while lying in body of water (ocean or kiddie pool sized).



I've found that Mumford & Sons are literally appropriate for any time of year and any occasion. I love the idea of having a cold beer and listening to Marcus Mumford croon. I just love that idea.



Daydreamin' by Lupe Fiasco featuring Jill Scott. Do I really have to explain why this is the perfect song? 




Thunder Road. It is simply NOT summer if you're not listening to The Boss. Thunder Road makes me want to roll the windows down in the car, and head out on a road trip...even though I no longer own a car.



Momma's Boy by the excessively talented Elizabeth and the Catapult. Momma's Boy is the kind of song that will always make me smile. First of all, the lyrics are unsurpassed, because let's be honest ladies...we've all known that guy who just isn't adult enough yet. Second, Ziman's voice is unreal, and if you don't rush out and buy the rest of the album after listening to this song then I don't think you have a soul.



Upside Down by Paloma Faith is the kind of song that really makes me want to be in a field of flowers. I can't listen to her unique voice and beats without snapping my fingers. And the lyrics are a great reminder for anyone who's felt a little different or left out...she likes living upside down, and so do I.



Alabama Shakes is like a combo of an updated Janis Joplin and Otis Redding. Naturally, I'm obsessed. Hold On is the perfect day drinking song...and a great transition to night time.



I hope you enjoy these songs as much as I do...and have a rocking summer!






*E.S.N. stands for: Editor's Snarky Note
**She is not.