5 Sunny Alt-Rock Hits to Warm Up Your Winter

These upbeat tracks will transport you to summer days ahead.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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As the last weeks of winter drag on, these five alt-rock songs will help you forget the cold and look forward to the warmth of spring and summer. From Weezer's breezy "Island in the Sun" to Colony House's roller coaster-inspired "Cannonballers", these sunny, energetic tunes will lift your spirits and have you daydreaming about carefree summer days.

Why it matters

With the winter doldrums setting in, these upbeat alt-rock anthems provide a much-needed mood boost and a glimpse of the brighter days ahead. The songs evoke the freewheeling spirit of summer, helping listeners escape the remaining cold and grey of the season.

The details

The list includes classics like Weezer's "Island in the Sun" and newer hits such as Vampire Weekend's "A-Punk" and The Frights' "Tongues". Each track captures a different aspect of the summer experience, from lazy pool days to boardwalk adventures and teenage romance. The songs build anticipation for the coming warmer months with their infectious energy and sunny vibes.

  • The songs were released between 2001 and 2023.

The players

Weezer

An American rock band formed in 1992, known for their alt-rock sound and pop sensibilities.

Vampire Weekend

An indie rock band formed in 2006, blending African-inspired rhythms with indie and alternative rock.

The Frights

A surf punk/garage rock band from San Diego, California, formed in 2012.

Glocca Morra

A Midwest emo band from Pennsylvania, active from 2009 to 2015.

Colony House

An indie rock band from Nashville, Tennessee, formed in 2009.

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The takeaway

These five alt-rock anthems provide the perfect soundtrack to help listeners shake off the winter blues and look forward to the warmth and freedom of the summer months ahead. The songs' upbeat tempos, sunny vibes, and nostalgic references to carefree summer days offer a much-needed mood boost as the last weeks of winter wind down.