July is finally upon us, and summer is in full swing. Now is the time to check some things off that summer wish list, and it is most definitely not complete without a classic summer road trip. This week in B-Sides we are looking at a few songs that you can add to your road trip playlist.

“Scene Stealer” - SUPER JUNIOR

To kick things off, veteran group SUPER JUNIOR from SM Entertainment knows how to get the party started with this groovy track. From their eighth album PLAY, this is the kind of song to play at the beginning of the road trip to get you pumped for the long journey ahead. Member Eunhyuk wrote the lyrics to the song, and you can tell that the group is here to have all the fun.

With an addicting funk/R&B sound, the group really does steal your attention. They sing precise rhythms and crisp harmonies that make you want to let loose and dance. Their ad-libs also add character to the song, and they ooze an incredible amount of confidence and charisma. SUPER JUNIOR still knows how to party, and this is a great song to jam out to in the car while the sun is shining.

“Utopia” - ATEEZ

At this point in the road trip, you have travelled for hours and the sun is about to set. This song from the popular rookie group ATEEZ can certainly keep you going strong at the end of the day. The synth and electronic sound of the track keeps you awake while the members’ distinct vocals entrance you. Though the group has an innocent rookie sound, the members have a level of confidence that makes them stand out.

The contrast between the vocal and rap line’s timbres is very satisfying, and the group chemistry is evident. Their excited voices and line distribution show that they are growing as a group. The song talks about reaching their dream and utopia, and they leave you excited for what they will accomplish next. It is a great song to listen to while the sun is setting because it calms you down and fills you with hope and energy for the night ahead.

“Somehow” - DAY6

Evening has arrived, and this track by the JYP band DAY6 will keep you interested and motivated to finish the trip in good time. It is a breakup song about moving on in life, but the bittersweet and upbeat sound will keep you awake. The melody is complex and emotional, but the members manage to present it in a simple and captivating way.

The song also shows off DAY6’s artistry and skill with composition. Sometimes the backtrack with the instruments follows the rhythm and progression of the melody, though other times the backtrack contrasts against the melody to highlight a more complex sound. Each member also gets the chance to sing in falsetto, which creates a softer harmony to the song. The softer tone of the track matches the feeling of a dark evening, but DAY6 will lift you up and help you drive through the night.