It seems to be that for every season, there is a specific genre or style of music that corresponds with it. So, as September transitioned to October, and the days are getting brisk, an appropriate fall playlist is just as essential as the perfect sweater to go with it. With that being said, I have selected ten albums that I believe are the perfect addition to any playlist, and epitomize all of the excitement that the season brings.
1. “Red” – Taylor Swift
First released in 2012, then again in 2021, “Red” by Taylor Swift is arguably THE fall album. It is composed of 30 songs, each calling to mind the nostalgic autumn sentiments of crunching leaves and chai teas. Whether you first heard this album after its original release, or later on when it was released for the second time, there is no doubt that it embodies the tenderness of fall, and respectfully takes the number one spot for my top ten fall albums.
2. “Sixpence None the Richer” – Sixpence None the Richer
This album undoubtedly deserves a high spot on this list because of the lighthearted feel that it evokes. With this album on in the background, anything can be romanticized to feel like a scene in “Gilmore Girls.” My personal favorite from this album is “There She Goes,” a cover of the song by the La’s.
3. “Stranger in the Alps” – Phoebe Bridgers
Naturally, any Phoebe Bridgers album or song listened to is going to give a fall feeling of seclusion and gratitude, but for the sake of the list, I chose the first one that came to mind. While many other albums that fall into this category may be about embracing the weather and taking advantage of the changing colors, “Stranger in the Alps” illustrates a more cloudy take on the matter. With songs like “Would You Rather” and “You Missed My Heart,” it would be naive to deny this album a spot on the list.
4. “For Emma, Forever Ago” – Bon Iver
Obviously, there is no fall without Bon Iver, so this album alone is the perfect addition to any serene playlist. With the soft vocals and relaxed production, the track introduces a rainy fall perspective, prominent in songs like “Re: Stacks” and “For Emma.”
5. “Rubber Soul” – The Beatles
Though this album was released over 50 years ago, it has proven itself timeless, at least during the autumn season. Due to its long lasting effect, it consists of countless songs that demonstrate the bliss of fall that can be enjoyed by any generation. Whether you were front row at a Beatles concert in the 60’s, or just figured out who they were, the upbeat songs are a great addition to any playlist.
6. “Harry Styles” – Harry Styles
Harry Styles’s debut solo album is a personal favorite and may be considered a no skip album. The track consists of songs like “Two Ghosts,” a gentle piece about growing apart from someone you love, as well as “Kiwi,” a classic rock song about… having a baby? Whatever the songs might be about, they capture the essence of relationships, while obtaining the typical rush of fall through the melodies and lyrics.
7. “So Tonight That I Might See” – Mazzy Star
Within this album is a song that I would deem as the optimum fall song: “Fade into you.” Not only did this song peak at 44 on the Billboard Hot 100, but it was also number three on the U.S. Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and other charts around the world in 1994. The album as a whole is one of the first ones that I listened to that gave off a spooky, Halloween temperament, which is why it is a good addition to the list.
8. “Stick Season” – Noah Kahan
Unlike the other albums mentioned on this list, Stick Season identifies the advantages and disadvantages of growing up and leaving the people and places that you love. The album has an indie/folk presence, and the crisp vocals promote the chilly sensitivity of autumn. From lively songs like “Homesick,” to slower pieces like “Halloween,” the album is a rollercoaster of emotions and is sure to add to the excitement of a great fall playlist.
9. “The Weatherman” – Gregory Alan Isakov
With acoustic sounding instruments and haunting vocals, this album has an individual and particular sincerity to it. The track includes 13 songs, each expanding on the idea of noticing the beauty in everyday life. I especially like this album because of the quietness that it brings, and the tranquility in each aspect of it. Not only is it calming, but it is an album that by only listening to it, feels like fall.
10. “Purgatory” – Tyler Childers
For the final album on this list, I decided it was best to incorporate some country. “Purgatory” is about growing up and finding the people you value in life. With a prominent guitar and rare vocals, each song is given an authentic and freeing warmth, one that could only be defined as the equivalent of a perfectly fitting Carhartt jacket.
