The Second Summer are a Chicago, USA-based rock band who have just come to my attention to their latest album, released earlier this year.

By Graeme Smith

Though they write music primarily for those who experience life as Generation X, The Second Summer have been finding that their tunes resonate with younger generations too. There certainly is something universal about what they sing about – life and all its ups and down – and their sound will always find fans among those who dig a big hook (and who doesn’t, really?)

The album starts strongly with The Reason. A vibrant piece of pop rock with ’90s sensibilities, it tells the story of blaming everyone but yourself. Soft vocals nicely contrast the edginess of the guitar riffs. The rhythm section keep things moving along before we get to a singalong chorus.

Never Not Forever is another stand out. Full of authentic longing, it’s a ballad that draws you in with its understated intro before arriving at a powerful moment in the chorus that simply oozes with wistfulness.

Elsewhere we get six more tracks exploring themes of loss (Something), love (Wonder Why) anger (Undefeated, Bad Feeling) and introspection (Invisible, Adults). The lyrics are always emotionally rich and the soundscapes interesting and cohesive.

It’s so great to have discovered The Second Summer. Their authentic sound is instantly likeable and will stick with you. Their emotional, soul-bearing storytelling will have you feeling every word of the lyrics. Undertow feels like a classic.

The Second Summer are Steve Gatland and Matt Broder on vocals and guitar, Joe Cancellaro on bass, and Tony Holmes on drums. If you happen to be reading this from Chicago, the guys will be playing at the International Pop Overthrow Festival there on 27 April, as well as Montrose Saloon on 5 April.

You can follow The Second Summer on Instagram and Facebook, and can give undertow a listen on Bandcamp, Apple Music or via Spotify below.