Top 5 Albums for Summer 2023

May 22

Summer is just around the corner, so it’s time to take a look at some of the best albums released this year that you should have on repeat at the beach, pool parties, and in your car with the windows down.

5. Lyrics to GO, Vol. 4 – Kota the Friend

Kota the Friend has always been known for his super chill music, and I really liked this collection of shorter songs that are all very laid back. He winds the tempo down with slow piano beats and a more deliberate flow throughout these tracks. He always writes great lyrics, and his music is perfect for chilling on the beach on a hot day. Top 3 songs: LIFE LESSONS, VULTURES, WALES

4. A R I Z O N A – A R I Z O N A

A R I Z O N A took some time off to work on this collection, and it was sure worth the wait. Their self-titled album is a little more laid back than some of their bigger hits, but the energy is perfect for the warmer months. The vocals, songwriting and guitar are incredible as always. The lyrics are slightly dark on a few of the tracks, but the bright melodies will keep your mood up. Top 3 Songs: Dark Skies, Moving On, Black Boots

3. The People’s Champ – Quinn XCII

Quinn XCII has been so consistent over his career in the quality of the music he releases, and this album is no different. Just 30 seconds into this collection and you’ll see why this is going to be a hit for the summer. The first track, “Bartender”, uses mellow guitar riffs and Quinn’s iconic vocals to set a super fun tone. He features a number of amazing artists like Big Sean, AJR, and what would an album of his be without a Chelsea Cutler feature? His music is best described as “good vibes”, so it makes sense that this album is on our list. Top 3 songs: Bartender, Let Me Down, Being Me

2. One Night In Nashville – Cheat Codes

This country/EDM fusion from Cheat Codes caught me by surprise. Prior to this, they had been releasing music that skewed more towards punk rock with their three- part “HELLRAISERS” project, and this takes a completely different direction. The thing I love most about this album is how different all of the songs are, and a star-studded cast of features with names like Lady A, Dolly Parton, and Jimmie Allen. The country vocals and lyrics are laid back, but some of the drops have high energy. The balance between the two genres is perfect and will appease both fanbases. With a diverse mix of tempos, features, and styles, this album has something for everyone. Top 3 songs: Something’s Coming, We’ll Break Up, I Remember

1. Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley: Chapter Two – Swamp Savant – Diplo

Like “One Night In Nashville” this album by Diplo also caught me off guard. He actually may have started the country EDM wave with songs like “Bottle’s Bout Dead” and he’s slowly been releasing a bunch of tracks with that sound. This is a really cool project with a ton of awesome and surprising features like the Jonas Brothers, Morgan Wallen, Kodak Black, Young Thug, and many more. Compared to the Cheat Codes album, this collection skews more towards country with some classic guitar melodies and vocals. As someone who never really got into country music, I love that artists are bridging the gap, and Diplo is leading the way. Top 3 songs: Rain On My Mind, Real Life Stuff, Lonely