Despite the colder weather and melancholic longer nights, autumn is the season for all things cosy. Filled with chunky knits, raindrops on windows, baking cookies, and the crunch of fallen leaves – it is easy to see why it is the perfect muse for many artists.
We all know how powerful music can be when setting a mood, and while some of these songs are not expressly about autumn, they certainly capture the feel of the season.
So, whether you’re carving pumpkins or simply walking to uni while it is still dark outside, here are some of my favourite songs to give you all the autumnal vibes.
The Neighbourhood – Cherry Flavoured
The Neighbourhood quickly became popular with their chart-topping hit Sweater Weather from their debut album I Love You (2013). While the song’s title speaks for itself in regards to being a great autumn track, Cherry Flavoured transcends to one of the top spots on my list. Featured on the album Chip Chrome and the Mono-Tones (2020), the smooth rhythm highlights Jesse Rutherford’s warm vocals and focuses on the song’s seemingly sweet lyrics with a dark edge.
Girl in Red – October Passed Me By
For some, autumn brings a melancholic reminder of the passage of time, and things literally falling apart. Norwegian singer-songwriter Marie Ulven’s (Girl in Red) newest single ‘October Passed Me By’ (2022) expresses this motif of endings, reflecting on a personal memory of a relationship that has since resulted in heartbreak. Sharing a statement upon its release, Marie Ulven stated: “October Passed Me By is where I’m at today, emotionally and musically. Grateful for what has been, and full of love for a very special person that made a huge impact on me as a person.”
Lana Del Ray – Season of the Witch
Lana Del Ray, a multi-award-winning artist, is widely recognised for her beautifully unique vocals and music that explores themes of glamour, tragic romance and melancholia. In 2021, she was honoured with Variety’s ‘Artist of the Decade’ award, and it is clear why. Her rendition of Donovan’s ‘Season of the Witch’ (1966) for the Scary Stories to Tell in The Dark trailer (2019) perfectly captures her whimsical voice, accompanied by a mellow tempo and spooky ambience.
Mazzy Star – Fade Into You
Despite debuting in 1993, Mazzy Star’s hit love song ‘Fade Into You’ has stood the test of time as it continues to capture the hearts of hopeless romantics across the world. It is the artist’s only single to make it to the Billboard Hot 100. Hope Sandoval’s dreamy voice uplifts the beautifully enigmatic lyrics, which are full of both longing and despair. Paired with a comforting and calming melody, it gives listeners the feeling of being wrapped up in a blanket on a cold autumnal day.
Cigarettes After Sex – Apocalypse
Everyone needs a perfect rainy day song, reflective and chilly like the seasonal weather. Apocalypse, from Cigarettes After Sex’s self-titled debut album (2017) fills this gap in your playlist perfectly. Beginning with a breath-taking guitar solo, followed by drowsy drumming and Greg Gonzalez’s ethereal vocals – this record is a work of art. The song’s battle between comfort and loneliness, reflected within its lyrics, leaves you longing to press repeat.
Image Credits: Valiphotos on Pixabay