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For many of us, May is the month when school ends. Finals week, graduation season, and preparing for summer break all calls for a time to celebrate before June. It’s the time for raves, concerts, music festivals, and getting in the summer spirit. Let’s not forget to honor AAPI this month! So what better way to mark the blossoming of flowers than with music. Artists are working on new projects just in time for the summer sun. Well, as a college student in the middle of a semester, these are my tracks for my train rides to and from campus. I hope you can enjoy these tracks wherever you are. Head to our Spotify for the full list.

ok – jeremy zucker

If you know me, you’ll know that Jeremy Zucker is one of the artists that I keep in rotation. His signature sound is comforting and gives my teenager self a little nod. This track is in the pocket of pop like his CRUSHER album, but there is definitely that message of prioritizing mental health. Jeremy is good at that, caring about things while making a banger out of it.

p.s. check out the review I did for “OK.”

when the day is done – grentperez

This is simply a feel-good song. Grant is so naturally gifted with vocals that fits perfectly with each genre he leans on in his discography. It’s the kind of honey voice that you perk up every time you hear it. The funk-soul vibe with a carefree rhythm and zesty strings always gets me to groove. I play this when I’m cleaning my room or need a little boost. I can’t wait to hear his new album soon.

p.s. again, check out the review I did for “when the day is done.”

ant pile – dominic fike

After his viral live sets from Coachella this year, I remember just why his music has always caught my attention. From “3 Nights” to his newest single, his indie-pop-rock brought to life with his raspy vocals keep me listening on repeat. Hard electric strings reflecting pop-punk influence is so addicting. I love how this is a romantic song, and sorry, it could be in a coming-of-age film. Safe to say, I am ready for his upcoming sophomore album later this year.

over and over –  love spells

When listening to this song with my headphones on the train or walking in the city, it transports me into my own world. The people walking by and sounds of the city are overtaken by Love Spells’ atmospheric vocals in a subdued, slow motion way. This song makes me envision running in a blurry haze. Definitely keeping Love Spells in rotation.

don’t forget about me – d4vd

I can’t get over this song—I absolutely won’t forget about this one (no pun intended). It’s the right tempo topped with d4vd’s gentle yet clear, hard hitting vocals. The production is smooth, soft strings uplifting his raw emotion. His discography has a diverse range of genres, which always keeps things interesting. I’m happy I can play his new EP on repeat.

bluff – greek

I love a slow and tender R&B track. Greek has a heavenly blend of talk-singing dusted with slight rasp and, of course, a fluid melody. I noticed the warped siren and buzzy electric guitar picking that adds roundness and texture to complete the track. There’s a bit of piano at the end, too. That combination with his gentle vocals is extraordinary. There’s a touch of Daniel Caesar floating in his sound, so it’s obvious that I like Greek’s music. No doubt that you’ll enjoy it.

(not) a love song – liang lawrence

This is a such a cute song—simple and heartfelt. Layers of Liang’s mellow harmonies aligned with a nostalgic rhythm creates a sense of soft romance. Her lyrics are so sweet, like “I’d like to brew a pot of you and have you in bed.” The guitar backing feels familiar like a perfect fantasy. Maybe it just is a love song, but like in a hopeless romantic kind of way.

sunshine baby – the japanese house

Amber Bain has a talent for hushed vocals and melancholic tones, but in the best way. All the indie, folk, and instrumental layers build up in such a liberating way. The chorus and ending are beautifully produced and made for a quiet sunset with cool air tickling your hair. Just like “Saw You In a Dream,” you’ll find yourself swaying to her silky melodies. I know I do. Thoroughly obsessed.