If you’re anything like me, then you’re ready for the cold, dreary gray of winter to hurry up already and shift into the bright, energetic fun of spring and summer. Unfortunately, people haven’t figured out how to fast forward the seasons (yet), which means you’ll have to fight the post-holiday winter blues with the next best thing: music. Specific genres of music have been associated with specific seasons and emotions for as long as music has existed. Sad music for rainy days, romantic serenades for Valentine’s Day and anniversaries, bass-heavy bangers for going out with friends, etc… But what about for right now?

That’s where BAYEM’s new ep, Afterglow comes in. The German-American singer’s newest release of music creates a listening experience that is certain to get you out of the gray-sky blues. Afterglow consists of eight original songs by BAYEM that are all unique from each other while maintaining an upbeat, pop, and funky vibe that keeps the EP flowing together.

The opening song “Joyride” is a refreshing blend of today’s pop music aesthetic with a vintage almost 80’s-style twist. The background beat and instrumental score of the song feels timeless and is easy to imagine blasting on a road trip with friends or just doing chores around the house. BAYEM’s clear-sounding voice is both bright and mellow, containing the smooth touches of acoustic indie singers but with the energy of a 21st pop artist.

“Rush” contains the same vibrant beats of the other songs, but the accompanying music creates a more chill listening experience. The lyrics center on the sensation of falling in love, the ‘rush’ you feel when you see your partner and get lost in your emotions. The song celebrates the experience, even while playing a more steady, slow audio that seems to contrast with the title, as if BAYEM is getting you to slow down enough to enjoy each moment: both of love and the song.

Whatever type of song or mood you’re looking for, BAYEM’s Afterglow is sure to have it. From the nostalgic, techno tunes of “Fallin Apart” to the more emotional, melancholic but powerful “For What”, the songs of Afterglow create a unique listening experience that contains individually, memorable singles flowing together with pleasant, smooth vocals.