Songs of Summer
Daniel of the pop-punk band Hawk Nelson plays during a recent Kitchen Sink performance
By Melissa Riddle, Senior Editorial Strategist, GospelMusicChannel.com
Here at GospelMusicChannel.com, we’re always curious about the place where music and faith intersect – that spiritual (yet very human) connection between our heads and our hearts.
So we’re always curious to talk about music..music in all its shapes and sounds; the lyrics and rhythms that draw us out of ourselves and make us feel more alive.
Starting now and all summer long, we’re talking to artists who are Christians – of all musical stripes. The question?
What are your favorite songs of summer?
Come back every week to find out what’s on the iPods and blaring through the car stereos of your favorite gospel artists this summer. The answers just might surprise you.
This week, Daniel Biro, bassist for Canada’s own Hawk Nelson, divulges his all-time favorite ‘beat the heat’ tunes. Currently on the summer festival circuit and headlining their own ‘Green T’ tour, Hawk Nelson recently appeared on ESPN2, tossing the game coin and performing after the Arizona Rattlers/Colorado Crush arena football game. Visit hawknelson.com for more details.
1. "So Long Astoria" by Ataris
Kind of an anthem song during my high school years...more a song of reflection which is always good as school releases and the summer break is in full effect.
2. "Island in the Sun" by Weezer
Classic, summer tune. Just a good listen.
3. "Something To Believe In" by FM Static
When the first FM Static record came out I was loving every moment of it. Years later it remains a favorite for those summer road trips.
4. "Summertime" by Fox Run
Our guitarist Jonathan writes some great music, and this is just one that I love. Obviously the title is appropriate for a summer playlist.
5. "Mexico" by Jump Little Children
Just a good tune. Makes me want to road trip more.
6. "Ice Age” by Hawksley Workman
Hawksley is this Canadian artist who writes material I can really identify with. Although a mellow tune, Ice Age is a happy tune that adds a good contrast to the typical hot summer tunes.
7. "The Winner Is" by DeVotchKa & Mychael Danna (from Little Miss Sunshine)
This is the theme song throughout the movie and if I hear it at any time, I just smile, and that's enough reason to have it on a summer playlist.
8. "Oh Gravity" by Switchfoot
One of my favorite bands with honest lyrics and great bass parts. “Oh Gravity” embodies classic rock with a lot of energy.
9. "Beautiful Day" by U2
It's good to stay positive and this song helps me appreciate each and every day.
10. "Banana Pancakes" by Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson brings the chill factor into each and every summer day. Maybe it's banana pancakes for some, or maybe some iced lemonade...either way this is the right song for the summer.
Songs of Summer Part One with Kutless
Songs of Summer Part Three with DecembeRadio
Songs of Summer Part Four with Jimmy Needham
