SUMMER STAPLES: PLAYLIST ESSENTIALS

ODEAL

Odeal is notorious for adapting his sounds relative to the seasons. Yet his summer projects are standout bodies of work, and The Summer that Saved Me (2025) is no different. As an Alté singer, Odeal represents a fusion of afrobeats, reggae, hiphop and alternative rnb, being able to switch between and blend the different genres effortlessly. Similarly, the meaning behind the album mirrors the various aspects of his stylistic choices. Odeal describes how he’s “always felt like pieces of myself exist in different places, this EP was about reconnecting those pieces.” Odeal explores vulnerability, pleasure and freedom over intricate harmonies and velvety sounds. The lead single ‘London Summer’ encapsulates the gratitude of the warmer weather, the smiles of people soaking up the sun across the capital.

Playlist Staples: ‘Blame You,’ ‘London Summers,’ ‘PDF’

MAHALIA

Mahalia’s latest EP, Luvergirl (2025), celebrates her connection to her Jamaican roots. Her recent trip to the islands has certainly inspired her latest music. Luvergirl is a confident, radiant, and infectious album as Mahalia takes you to the dancefloor. The lead single, ‘Instructions’, creates the perfect party atmosphere with its vibrant, dancehall production. On ‘Pressure Points’, Mahalia and vocalist Lila Ike team up to create a sensual song that highlights the intimacy of new connections. Mahalia has elevated her wordplay and songwriting throughout the project. The album blends feelings of sensuality and self-love with the beautiful imagery of the islands, sunsets, and encourages taking things slow and enjoying yourself.

Playlist staples: ‘Instructions,’ ‘Different Type of Love,’ ‘Simmer’

FLO

FLO have been establishing their presence in the R&B scene over the past few years. Reminiscent of TLC and Destiny's Child, the trio embody a nostalgic, refreshing, and ambitious sound. Alongside their debut album Access All Areas (2024), they continue their messages of empowerment while feeling good and having fun in the summer. Recently teaming up with KAYTRENADA on ‘The Mood,’ their promiscuous songwriting serves as a refreshing take on sex and sensuality: ‘permission is sexy, you gotta ask before you undress me.’ On ‘Summertime,’ the trio celebrate the unforgettable moments of summer: enjoying yourself with your friends, dancing and going out. Their clean vocals and harmonies, youthful and empowering spirit, radiate across their summer tracks.

Playlist Essentials: ‘The Mood’, ‘Summer Time’ , ‘Fly Girl’