by Alex Smyth

This is a playlist for jumping out of bed in the morning and into the new day. It's been tough for me to get out of bed lately, so listening to a more high-energy playlist has really helped. I love a nice, calm morning playlist too, don't get me wrong, but there's something about a fast tempo that gets me moving. Getting dressed, cooking breakfast, or cleaning frantically while listening - all are advisable!

I miss my home and family back in southern California more than ever right now, and it's hard to come to terms with the fact that we won't experience a "normal" summer this year. These songs help me start my day, but also help me remember what summer back home feels like. The playlist eases you in, but by the end it's brimming with surf punk riffs and sun-drenched songs that evoke summer warmth, long days, and maybe most importantly—freedom.