James Arden checks out the garage rockers latest album.
The Christian rock band from Brighton bring religion to the masses.
Recipe for modern R'n'B album: liberal helpings of guest rappers and an overdose of sexual euphemisms.
10. The Surfaris – ‘Wipeout’ (Laura Furniss)
This song only has one word and a laugh, but it is possible to sing along all the way through. Ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner, and repeat. This ridiculously energetic track turns everyone in the world into a surfing Beyonce, shaking their booty while also becoming a surfing legend. If you pulled these moves on an actual surf board, you would indeed be wiped out. On dry land though, this is the perfect summer song to celebrate sun, sea and surf.
9. Don Henley – ‘The Boys of Summer’
Don’t you just hate it when you’re pining over that girl, but a bunch of much more forward guys come along? This forms the basis for Henley’s crooning "I can tell you my love for you will still be strong after the boys of summer have gone." Ah well, I’m sure winning the Grammy award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance on the track sure got the girl’s attention back in your court, Don.
8. Mungo Jerry – ‘In The Summertime’
Probably better known for its cheesy rap cover thanks to Shaggy, ‘In The Summertime’ was originally a 70s smash for Mungo Jerry. A relaxed tropical vibe is created through piano, guitar and banjo chords and little else but some warbling, whistling and occasional lyrics.
7. T-Spoon – ‘Sex On The Beach’
Summer romance, alcoholic frolics, al-fresco sex. Need we say more?
6. The Divine Comedy's - 'The Pop Singer's Fear of the Pollen Count' (Lois Cameron)
Neil Hannon’s typically odd take on summer sees him acknowledge its irritations – especially for a hay fever sufferer – but ultimately admit that even they can’t stop him falling in love with it over and over again. The song is as catchy as any The Divine Comedy have ever made, which fits in with the song’s idea that no-one can resist the lure and charms of the summer heat.
5. Grease OST – ‘Summer Lovin’
The story of Danny and Sandy is one of many dreamy songs, but none is so smoothly reminiscent of summer fun than when the two youngsters are asked by their friends how they spent their summer. Cue hazy memories of beach filled afternoons, prying questions and wondering about what the other is doing… (Erm, Olivia, John Travolta is stood at the top of that there set of bleachers making a right caterwaul. Control him, please.) Don’t listen to Rizzo guys, this summer life is certainly not a drag.
4. Bryan Adams – ‘Summer of 69’ (Harriet Shaw)
This 1985 classic American hit harks back to teen glory days with references to young love; ‘held my hand’ and bands; ‘six string’. Despite the line up lacking great instrumental edge and initiative for 80’s rock, the sincerity in Adams voice cannot go a miss. The cheesy but incredibly catchy melodic line must be appreciated for its ability to liven up a moment!
3. The Beach Boys – ‘Surfin’ USA’
One of the true original summer anthems, this offering from The Beach Boys hits just about every wave the state has to offer and leaves you refreshed from a surfing tour that lasts right through to September. The rock swing style of the song gets everybody clapping along to the marching beat, let alone surfing away.
2. DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince – ‘Summertime’ (Lucie Vincer)
Nothing quite like the persuasive tones of Will Smith to convince you that a wet and dreary August is in fact the "summer summer summer time". 'Summertime' (track five on his Greatest Hits album, FYI), being a fantastically practical track, features a series of instructions on how to have a successful summer. 1) Think of the summers of the past. 2) Adjust the bass and let the alpine blast. 3) Pop in his CD and let him run a rhyme. 4) Put your car on cruise and lay back. Look, whatever, I still say Will Smith is the prince of f*cking everything.
1. Alice Cooper – ‘School’s Out’ (Michael Tansini)
If you don't sing along with Alice Cooper's "school's out for the summer" you have no soul. It's a rock n' roll song played without fail every July by hoards of beaming kids escaping double biology for another year and instantly conjures up memories of Cornettos, hot weather that never lasts long enough and unsuccessful summer relationships.
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