Spring is near and Spring Break is even closer. It does not matter if it’s spring, summer or that one random day in January, the following songs all benefit from being played when the temperature is high.

Josh Rouse – “Simple Pleasure”

“Simple Pleasure” might just be the definition of a “spring song.” Light chords, plucked strings make this laid back track blissfully optimistic.

Modest Mouse – “Ocean Breathes Salty”

Walk into any Jimmy John’s during the summer and the likeliness of you hearing this track is high.

State Radio – “Right Me Up”

This feel good song from 2005 feels even better when the snow has all melted. While Chad Urmston is currently touring solo under the moniker Chadwick Stokes, he still finds time to work this fan favorite into his set.

Death Cab For Cutie – “Crooked Teeth”

“It was one hundred degrees as we sat beneath the willow tree.” While this track may have stuck out on 2005’s “Plans,” it’s an excellent single from indie-rock the champions.

O.A.R. – “Hey Girl”

An obvious choice. Cheerful guitar chords with Jerry DePizzo’s hammering saxophone line just radiates heat and happiness. You can’t go wrong with choosing the live version either.

Suburban Legends – “Just Be Happy”

Ska music is a staple of the summer weather and Suburban Legends is among the best of the third wave ska bands.

Dave Matthews Band – “Seven”

“Red is the color of the sun with my eyes closed.” Dave Matthews Band, much like O.A.R., has been a staple of summer concerts since the 1990s. “Seven” encapsulates all that is well with DMB’s new sound.

Ben Folds FiveCQ – “Kate”

This quirky piano driven jam is always a good time to yell out of a car window. “I wanna be Kate!”

Jack Johnson – “Broken”

“Broken” is usually overshadowed by the big track off of the Curious George soundtrack, “Upside Down,” but listeners who give this track a spin may find a solid tune to add to their Jack Johnson deep cuts.

Jack’s Mannequin – “Bruised”

Something Corporate frontman Andrew McMahon’s solo project was a pure success and “Bruised” showcases everything that made the project what it was.

Jukebox the Ghost – “The Stars”

Imagine Ben Folds Five, but then replace the piano for synthesizers and you have Jukebox the Ghost’s “The Stars.” Similarly quirky with a driving chorus and a bouncy groove makes this one irresistible for the hot days.