It’s been a gloomy summer in Vermont, where rain has become an almost daily occurrence. Fortunately, with our brutal winters, we’re all used to staving off seasonal malaise. Join us as we embrace the transcendent nature of music with our sunny songs for a rainy summer.

The Kinks - Love Me Til the Sun Shines

Dave Davies was not as prolific as his brother Ray, but he rarely disappointed. This lovely little love song is no exception.

Velvet Underground -- Here Comes the Sun

Although this song dismisses the uplifting nature of the sun, its bright melody and upbeat rhythm make it the catchiest song about heart break out there.

Husker Du -- Celebrated Summer

A nostalgic paean to summers past. Husker Du in top form, as they often were.

Pavement -- Summer Babe (Winter Version)

“I saw your girlfriend and she was her eating fingers like they’re just another meal”. Yep. That captures the ideal summer experience.

The Beach Boys - Warmth of the Sun

Probably the most appropriate song on this list. Any collection of early Beach Boys songs would make for a great summer soundtrack.

Loving Spoonful - Summer in the City

I have a theory that every person who’s ever heard this song loves it. Infectious!

Fleet Foxes -- Sun Giant/Sun it Rises

A serene counterpoint to the previous entry. Let it wash over you with thoughts of warmth and tranquility.

Pogues -- Sunny Side of the Street

This song evokes the Church Street experience, where half the street is usually shaded. Perhaps it would be more optimistic to say half basks in the sun.

Katrina & The Waves -- Walking on Sunshine

Philip J Fry’s favorite song, as evidenced by his numerous renditions. Need I say more?

George Gershwin -- Summertime (Sam Cooke version)

An American standard, this song has been covered countless times. This is one of many great versions of this wonderfully languid classic.

Jimmy Cliff -- Hello Sunshine

Reggae and summer go together like peanut butter and fluf.

The Beatles -- Rain

This song may call attention to what this list is meant to help us forget, but it’s a perfect endcap to this set, embracing the cleansing beauty of the rain, reminding us that it always precedes sunshine.