Summer is synonymous with more than just sun and sand. It goes hand in hand with outdoor activities accompanied by iconic summer jams. And, while summer has just begun, some of our favorite bands, new and old, have put forth some smashing seasonally appropriate albums.

KATY PERRY: ONE OF THE BOYS

Newcomer Katy Perry didn't just kiss a girl and like it, she served up an album full of beach-worthy hits with her debut "One of the Boys." Her satisfying mix of pop melodies and cunningly clever wordplay is bound to be a party pleaser this summer. Certainly get past Perry's popular single "I Kissed a Girl" and don't miss out on her pop-rock "Mannequin" which achieves both sweet sentiment and frustrated fervor.

DUFFY: ROCKFERRY


A bit mellow overall, Duffy's "Rockferry" is certainly suitable for summer. The blastable "Mercy" has all the components of a summer anthem: a little scorned lover, a bit old-fashioned du-wop, a catchy chorus and an unforgettable voice. The sappy-sad "Warwick Avenue" is a formidable companion for sunning.

COLDPLAY: VIVA LA VIDA


As if the title track didn't say it all, Coldplay's recent "Viva La Vida" has hit the charts running since its early June release. The catchy title track has, early into the summer, become an iconic seasonal hit. Front man Chris Martin also hits a high note with the track "Violet Hill" which offers a Beatles-like sound for a surely nostalgic summer crowd-pleaser.

COLBIE CAILLAT: COCO

Though her "Bubbly" debut hit the scene last summer, Colbie Caillat's "Coco" has some unique staying power. With her most recent hit "Realize" Caillat's album is full of summer surprises. The island-inspired "Tied Down" presents a relaxed summer anthem that shouldn't be missed.

THE WEEPIES: HIDEAWAY

The second release from The Weepies offers a second helping of the soothing, simple melodies that gained their "Say I am You" debut fan acclaim and wide appeal. Their newest release, "Hideaway" is the sure soundtrack to a laidback and relaxing summer with their most intriguing track "All Good Things."


Story by Theresa Kurzeja

Starpulse contributing writer