Tired of your Spotify playlists? The Purbalite is here to help, with our Essential Listening series.

As summer approaches, it is important to find the best music to listen to for the ultimate summer playlist. Indie artist Simone’s EP To Be Honest is the perfect example of a record to scream with the car windows rolled down in the summer sun. 

To Be Honest tends to emulate the pop sound that is reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s pop era. This is ever-present in the song “Can’t Get Enough of You.” This song has catchy poppy vocals and a girlish romance that makes it so intriguing.

Simone’s fun sound and solid vocals really hold up. “Serenade Me,” is arguably the best song on the EP. It details a teen romance in a “you belong with me” way, and is the most exciting song. 

The EP highlights Simone’s overall sound and complements her style. It is juvenile in a way that would make adults think of what it was like to be a teen, but is still relatable for teens and the real feelings experienced in teen romance.   

To Be Honest is ultimately a great pop album, one that even people who don’t commonly listen to pop would like.