The Ultimate Summer Vibe Check
Released on the Solarize EP, "Swimming Pool Summer" by Capital Cities is a masterclass in Nu-Disco nonchalance. Unlike high-energy belts, this track requires you to sit back in the beat. It combines a conversational baritone verse with a melodic, breezy chorus that perfectly captures a lazy afternoon.
To sing this well, you need to abandon the urge to "push." The performance style is cool, collected, and precise. Let's break down exactly how to tackle the groove and tone, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Stay in the Pocket
Rushing the tempo is the #1 mistake users make on this track. The bassline drives the song. Listen to the drums and aim to sing slightly behind the beat rather than ahead of it for that authentic indie-pop feel.
Phase 1: The Verses (Relaxed Baritone)
The song begins with lyrics like "I wanna hang out by the pool." The range here is very accessible for baritones (A2 to D3 range). The challenge is tone color. You want a clear, speaking voice quality.
The Trap: Because the notes are low and easy, singers often get "lazy" with articulation. Keep your consonants crisp ("hang," "pool," "sit") to cut through the synth pads without raising your volume.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus & Chorus
The energy lifts slightly. As you sing "It's a swimming pool summer," the melody becomes more legato (smooth and connected). Ensure you are supporting your breath so the ends of phrases don't drop off flat.
- Resonance: Switch from the chest-heavy speaking tone of the verse to a brighter, forward placement (mask resonance) for the chorus.
- Rose-colored glasses: This line requires a bit of melodic agility. Practice the interval jumps slowly.
Phase 3: The Falsetto Layers
Capital Cities are known for their layered vocals. There are moments of "Ooh" and background harmonies that sit in the falsetto register. Keep these light and airy. If you squeeze your throat, you'll lose the breezy summer vibe and sound strained.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal stays mostly within the chest/mix register up to F#4, but falsetto harmonies reach higher. It's a very safe song for intermediate singers.
It falls under Nu-Disco and Indie Pop. The vocal style should reflect this—less vibrato, straighter tone, and rhythmic precision.
Don't over-sing. Use a medium volume (mezzo-forte) and focus on the rhythm. If you sing too loud, it ruins the relaxed aesthetic of the track.
