Top Summer Anthems from Charlotte Hancock

Our music writer, Charlotte Hancock gives us the lowdown on her favourite Summer anthems to keep you sane as we say goodbye to the Summer. Here is what she had to say...

The hot summer days are being replaced with blasts of bitter wind, and I fear autumn is looming along with those unavoidable post festival blues. With Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith and 5 Seconds of Summer all dropping fresh albums, the boys are definitely back with a bang this year, pushing the boundaries better than ever and keeping us in the party mood.

'X' the second album of pop sensation, Ed Sheeran, has been a hot topic in the media since its release in the UK this June. Including the number one single 'Sing', featuring Pharrell Williams, the album showcases the best of Sheeran with a good mix of acoustic and more energetic music. This is a contrast to his debut album '+', which despite the influence of hip hop and R&B, was recorded with a small acoustic guitar giving the album a peaceful, smooth tone.

The deluxe version of 'X' also features the single 'I see fire' written as the soundtrack of blockbuster 'The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug'. The first verse, sung acapella and eventually joined by guitar and deep violin, is a chilling beginning to the beautiful track. His angelic voice fills the music in the most haunting way. Throughout the stunning album each song expresses emotion through exceptional lyrics and melody for any number of audiences to enjoy.

Ed Sheeran isn't the only male vocalist to be blowing up the charts this year however, British singer Sam Smith released the mind-blowing album 'In The Lonely Hour' this May and received a glowing response. First making headlines after his collaboration with electronic music duo Disclosure on soundtrack 'Latch' and British producer Naughty Boy on 'La La La', the soul singer-songwriter earned his well deserved recognition.

These chart hits are among numerous knockout singles such as 'Money on My Mind', 'Lay Me Down' and 'Stay With Me' all of which showcase his saintly voice with influences of deep gospel and R&B. Although the album has an overall calm, quiet vibe the use of the instruments piano, violin and acoustic guitar along with his heavenly voice provides a spectrum of delight and intrigue which can keep you entertained for hours. 

Next up is Australian pop punk/rock band 5 Seconds of Summer. Formed in Sydney in 2011 the band rose to fame when they earned the place as boyband One Direction's support act on their 'Take Me Home' tour. Their self titled debut album was released this June and has received a passionate response earning them a large, dedicated fanbase.

The album boasts 16 energetic singles destined to get a crowd up and jumping, with influences of Blink 182 and Greenday a band fanatic will surely not be disappointed. Wonderful vocals, with rocky undertones supported by dynamic and spirited guitar and drums, make this album what it is and deserving of its 34 worldwide chart placings.

So while you flick ravenously through Ticketmaster to win your place at the next soul filling gig make sure you select one of these artists to visit as each one of them are surely unmissable.