Autumn in Bloomington is one of my favorite things in the world. At the start of every September, I have my sweaters on standby, waiting impatiently for fall’s first perfect day. And every morning that month, I’m disappointed by daily forecasts that say it’ll be sunny with a high of 80 degrees.
Even still, I started building my perfect autumn playlist Sept. 1. Wishful thinking, I know. Nevertheless, I was dreaming of a spiced apple cider in my hand and the crunch of leaves under my feet. I thought if I played the songs enough, Mother Nature would hear me and turn down the heat.
Now that the leaves are finally turning, I can say without a doubt that my playlist did the trick. If, like me, you’ve been craving the start of autumn, these songs can help you celebrate its arrival.
Fleet Foxes has, without a doubt, the strongest fall vibes out of any band I know, and “Ragged Wood” is the quintessential example. The song’s different movements mirror the transition from the cheerful end of summer to the brisk, chilly start of autumn.
I have a special place in my heart for songs that blend happiness with sadness, and Hozier is a master of that mixture. A close listen to the lyrics reveals a tinge of cynicism, but “Someone New” still sounds hopeful, making this song my favorite walking-home-from-class jam.
[Related: COLUMN: Your October Playlist: 10 spooky season song recommendations]
“Where You Lead” – Carole King
Yes, it’s the theme from “Gilmore Girls” and also a highlight from “Tapestry,” Carole King’s 1971 masterpiece. This song transports me straight into the scene from the album’s cover: seated on a windowsill, in my favorite sweater and jeans, with a cat perched at my feet.
[Related: COLUMN: The 10 most influential rock albums of 1971]
Ever since I saw Dr. Dog on its final tour last month, it has been in my heavy rotation. The gritty, folk-indie blend of its music is just right for walks in the woods. I love the restlessness and reflection that “The Breeze” ignites – it always makes me feel contemplative.
“My Sweet Lord” – George Harrison
A classic from his six-side record “All Things Must Pass,” “My Sweet Lord” is a gorgeous example of George Harrison’s evolution into a fantastic post-Beatles songwriter. I love how the lead and backing vocals grow with each repetition of the titular phrase. It plays like a worship song with just enough of Harrison’s signature slide guitar technique.
Autumn is, essentially, a season of transition. In this song, The Walters compare personal growth to the change in the seasons. It’s soft and lilting, like leaves falling from the trees, and perfect for October.
Taylor Swift is a staple in the Indiana Daily Student newsroom— her anthology makes frequent appearances on our playlists, and for good reason. “dorothea” is sweet and nostalgic, like visiting your hometown and noticing how much you’ve changed since you left.
[Related: COLUMN: 13 Taylor Swift songs you should give a second chance]
“Cornerstone” – Arctic Monkeys
I don’t think I’ve ever made a playlist that didn’t feature at least one Arctic Monkeys song. Its garage-rock sound coupled with frontman Alex Turner’s master lyricism have secured it as one of my all-time favorite bands. “Cornerstone” is vulnerable and poetic, and I always have space in my playlists for a hint of yearning.
This Simon & Garfunkel hit is a highlight from the duo’s 1968 concept album “Bookends.” The album’s exploration of the changing seasons of life is perfect for an autumn playlist, and “America” is best served with a windows-down drive through the heavily wooded area of your choosing – personally, I suggest Brown County State Park.
“Love & War in Your Twenties” – Jordy Searcy
In this song, a promising former contestant from NBC’s “The Voice'' said, “Your twenties are for spendin’ / Hours and hours pretendin’ / We have plans, and we have places we should visit / But everybody knows your twenties are for wastin’ time.” As I gear up for this season of transition, “Love & War in Your Twenties” reminds me that in between is a perfect place to be.
