Original image of the Oregon coast, August 2026, by There Stands the Glass.
The annual song of the summer media cycle is inherently ridiculous. I’m playing along this year in order to acknowledge The Popper’s regional hit “Welcome to Kansas City.” As it's a humid 85 degrees as I type these words at 10 a.m., the doom jazz, solo piano and avant-garde improvisations I ordinarily favor are as appealing as a tall glass of milk. Consequently, ten frothy songs including sweltering covers of classics by the Human League, Robert Earl Keen and Nelly claim spots on my short list of ebullient favorites.
1. The Popper- “Welcome to Kansas City”
Landmark that!
2. Don Toliver- “Gemstone”
Glittery.
3. Al Xapo- “Fosta Fosta”
Blistering.
4. Meshell Ndegeocello featuring Cat Power- “Don’t You Want Me”
This much is true.
5. Shenseea- “Brucksweat”
Scorching.
6. Charli xcx- "Wink Wink"
Eyes wide open..
7. Turnpike Troubadours featuring Sierra Hull- “Feeling Good Again”
Happy hour.
8. Karol G- “Matadora”
From her disappointing new album.
9. Oscar Maydon- “Sinaloka”
From his glorious summer-themed new album.
10. The Booyah! Kids- “rwm”
Must be the money.
