We’re big advocates of long, hot showers. A good steam with a luxurious lather will soothe your muscles, clear your head and soften your stubble before that all-important shave. A great soundtrack will make the whole process a faster and more enjoyable experience.

Summertime and the living is…

Hot, for one. Somedays brutally so. Meaning that long, hot morning shower is best served cold. Cool yourself down in the morning to prepare yourself for the warm day ahead.

As always, Shower Sessions is here to help with a selection of tunes that are fit for the season. July’s theme: Hot Weather Music.

https://open.spotify.com/embed/user/fiveoclockmagazine/playlist/1JYH5mAfCuRiYc4ONQUca1

Your morning weather report comes to you courtesy of Mr. Jimmy Reed. His forecast: “The Sun is Shining.” On both sides of the street, he adds. (Note to self: wear sunglasses.) Peter Tosh backs up the consensus with “Coming In Hot,” a mood that will only be “Intensified” by the likes of Desmond Dekker.

Remember to not take these steamy days for granted. Remember those dark February days when you would’ve given anything for a stray golden ray of heat. When the mercury creeps, don’t bounce from air-conditioned room to air-conditioned car to air-conditioned room. Greet the blazing sun as warmly as it greets you. “Ain’t That Good News,” indeed (excellently covered here by NOLA’s great Kermit Ruffins.)

For you shall ride the heatwave of today like a “Devil Surfer,” so let the “Summertearz” drip. You’ll get your “Hard (Earned) Water,” but only after you “Light (My) Fire.” Yes, somedays, it’s a “Long Journey,” but you will face it head on, because “Here it Comes.”

Once you’re through the day, perhaps even an early Summer Friday, seek out a lazy evening outdoors, in a backyard, park, pool, beer garden, or any place where there is grilling to be done. And bring friends, even a four-legged one. These are the dog days, after all and you’re listening to Ty Segall’s ode to “Fanny Dog,” while you’re “Shootin’ the Breeze.”

Something you can do “All Night.” Provided you take your morning shower.

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