I’ve spent a lot of time this week writing about fast, sugary pop punk records, which makes sense given the heat wave over here. But summer also calls for something a little more relaxed, and New Passengers have arrived with impeccable timing.

Wild Colors is guitar-pop bliss, accompanied by a beach-themed video and infused with the wistful feeling of summer evenings that slipped by too quickly. Bare feet in the sand, the last rays of sunlight, a hint of melancholy beneath the warmth. Truthfully, it’s currently so hot over here that I’m mostly dreaming about air conditioning. Still, the melody feels timeless, the kind that settles in effortlessly and makes itself at home on your summer playlist or radio show.

Based in Washington, D.C., New Passengers feature Aaron Morgan (Aaron & The Alligators, Golden Void, The Finches, Roots of Orchis), Candice Adams (Riff Randells, Nacho Business, The Comedians), Roger Poulin, and Dan Sachs. The second track on this digital single, Orchid, is a fine piece of jangly indie rock that further highlights Adams’ appealing vocals.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp