Even though some mourn the falling temperatures and the advent of winter weather, it seems to be the common consensus that the transition from summer into fall is something to get excited about. After all, autumn means digging out your cozy sweaters, admiring those beautiful fall leaves, and–of course–the return of pumpkin spice EVERYTHING. With fall being such a cool (pun intended) time of the year, it definitely deserves a proper mix of songs to honor it. So, without further ado, here it is–an essential playlist of songs to help make this the most rocking autumn ever.
1) “Flow”- Cage the Elephant
Frontman Matt Schultz’s mellow vocals and steady guitar provide the perfect rhythm for that steady transition into a new season, and the song’s overall jaunty sound is sure to put a spring in your step on the daily walk to class.
2) “Loyal Man”- Yukon Blonde
To me, nothing screams “fall road trip with friends” quite like this folksy indie rock tune. Soaring harmonies in the chorus make it perfect for belting it out on a long, scenic drive.
3) “Past Lives”- DIIV
A fast, jangling guitar riff mashed up with dreamy vocals make this song the soundtrack for lying out in the grass, enjoying the last few days of warm weather and soaking up the bright fall sunshine.
4) “Sleeping Ute”- Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear is known for their killer harmonies and their unique psychedelic-folk sound, and this song is no exception. The rustic flavor of “Sleeping Ute” is sure to make you long for a quiet weekend away in the mountains, and the multi-layered instrumentals will blow you away.
5) “The Ghost Inside”- Broken Bells
Fall is known for being one of the most delightfully spooky times of the year, and the eerie falsetto and keyboard melody will make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end (in the best possible way).
6) “Degausser”- Brand New
Jesse Lacey’s raw, unfettered vocals and heavy instrumentals make this song as chilly as a fall morning. Arguably one of Brand New’s best songs, this one is definitely a fall essential.
7) “Adversity”- Beach Fossils
A smooth, calm sound makes this song the perfect listen for curling up under your newly-unearthed quilt on a lazy Saturday morning.
8) “Drakkar Noir”- Phoenix
Cool synthesizer and crystal-clear production make this song a perfect pick-me-up jam, even in the midst of your craziest week of the semester.
9) “Lover Of Mine”- Beach House
If there was ever a song that perfectly captured the mood of taking a long walk among the fall colors, this would be it. Keep this dreamy, beautiful tune handy if you’re ever looking for a sweet five-minute escape.
10) “Fireside”- Arctic Monkeys
Just as the title suggests, a persistent mix of acoustic guitar and tambourine makes this song feel just like gathering around a bonfire in the woods. Mixed with the effortlessly cool and polished rock sound for which Arctic Monkeys are known, “Fireside” is a perfect song for a fall evening.
11) “Set Your Arms Down”- Warpaint
Spooky, breathy vocals, courtesy of this ultra-cool all-female band, make this tune almost sound like witchcraft. Keep it on rotation as the Halloween season approaches.
12) “Everything Is Wrong”- Interpol
Fresh off their brand-new album, El Pintor, “Everything Is Wrong” is a track to know this fall. Fans of The Strokes and Muse will love this mellow rock number.
13) “Hollow Body”- Pity Sex
As crisp as a fall day, and with a slow and steady rhythm, this lovely song is almost like the sonic equivalent of watching leaves fall.
14) “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song”- Fleet Foxes
Of course, no fall playlist would be complete without Fleet Foxes. The indie folk band’s mastery of vocal harmonies and acoustic guitar make them a fall essential. Sitting next to the fireplace with a blanket is probably the best way to enjoy this mellow tune.
15) “Wooly Mammoth”- Local Natives
In the same vein as Fleet Foxes, Local Natives’ killer harmonies will help you make the most of your fall season. This tune is perfect for taking a walk outside in the fall weather, and the wild drumming of this song will give that walk a perfect touch of adventure.
16) “Graceless”- The National
As the weather gets colder, The National should be on constant rotation. Smooth vocals and a haunting piano melody make this tune feel just like a frosty fall morning.
17) “Feel It All Around”- Washed Out
You may recognize this song from the opening credits of the TV series Portlandia. There’s a reason this song is used; its smooth beat and flowing lyrics make it a super-cool selection for your everyday soundtrack.
18) “Candles”- Daughter
This song is as cozy as your favorite sweater, and is perfect for any time you need a soothing escape this fall.
19) “The Season”- The Dodos
The Dodos’ unique take on folk rock made this song an instant fall classic, and the choppy guitar and hectic drums will ensure that no matter how many times you listen to this one, it will never get boring. Besides, the title alone practically begs to be featured in a fall mix.
20) “Shelter Song”- Temples
Another relatively new release, this groovy psychedelic tune begs to be played when you’re enjoying a fall day, be it while you’re walking around campus or cruising around in your car.
21) “Strange Creatures”- Jake Bugg
The haunting acoustic riff and Bugg’s gruff vocals make this number another one that’s perfect for approaching Halloween. As he sings about nightmares and ghosts, it’s impossible not to get slightly spooked.
22) “Yellow Ledbetter”- Pearl Jam
A true classic, this grunge-rock hit has a perfectly easy vibe that’s great for those lazy autumn days when you’re just kicking back and relaxing.
23) “Wetsuit”- The Vaccines
This song is all about taking time to take it easy, even when everything is moving fast and changing. What could be better for the changing of the seasons?
24) “Making Breakfast”- Twin Peaks
From their new album Wild Onion, “Making Breakfast” is a showcase of this band’s easy Chicago sound, and is perfect for the relaxed vibe of a fall weekend. Play it as a compliment to a chill Sunday morning.
Enjoy!