Press Play on the Essential Fall Soundtrack
If you’re looking to refresh your seasonal soundtrack as the leaves turn and the temperature drops, look no further. From 2010s classics to newer, autumnal scene setters, here are some of the essential and more niche albums I have on repeat for the perfect fall playlist curation.
Harry Styles - Harry Styles
Notable Tracks: “Two Ghosts,” “From The Dining Table,” and “Sign of the Times”
When the first light breeze of fall rolls in, I prepare to press play on Harry Styles’ debut album repeatedly. The record perfectly captures the essence of the season and marks a stunning debut for Styles as a solo artist. With its delicate piano melodies and soft, introspective vocals, it showcases a major shift from his One Direction days. The lyrics evoke both a seasonal and emotional transformation, like the lines, "We're just two ghosts standing in the place of you and me / Trying to remember how it feels to have a heartbeat" in “Two Ghosts.” Perfect for cozy listening by the fireplace, Styles’ debut remains a staple in my fall rotation.
The 1975 - Being Funny in a Foreign Language
Notable Tracks: “Oh Caroline,” “About You,” and “Looking For Somebody (To Love)”
Released three years ago, Being Funny in a Foreign Language is my favorite album by The 1975 and the perfect listen for when the weather turns. Marking a new era and sound for the band, it took fans by surprise. Jack Antonoff’s production, shimmering synths, soft vocals, and introspective lyricism, make for an essential autumn album. It’s a no-skip record for me — perfect for train rides, sweater weather, and getting out your Doc Martens.
Inhaler - It Won’t Always Be Like This
Notable Tracks: “Totally,” “Slide Out The Window,” and “ It Won’t Always Be Like This”
A deeper cut by one of my favorite bands, It Won’t Always Be Like This by Inhaler delivers indie rock that’s perfect for colder weather. While some of their tracks lean more upbeat, a few hidden gems showcase slower melodies and introspective lyrics. My personal fall favorite is “Slide Out The Window,” which offers a dreamy sound paired with the lyric, “When seasons change / And it gets dark / We'll own sunrise.” With glittery synths and yearning vocals, the song creates a cinematic atmosphere, making this album a perfect new addition to your fall playlist.
Hozier - Hozier
Notable Tracks: “From Eden,” “Someone New,” and “Like Real People Do”
Another self-titled album that’s perfect for fall is Hozier. Arguably, every Hozier song feels autumnal, but this album especially captures that mood. Tracks like “From Eden” are the sonic equivalent to listening to the leaves change with their stunning vocals and hypnotic acoustic guitar. Every song on the record feels like a fall essential, offering a folk-inspired, poetic warmth that’s perfect for your autumn soundtrack.
Role Model - Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye)
Notable Tracks: “Some Protector,” “Look At The Woman,” and “Slipfast”
One of my favorite albums to listen to in the crisp, cold air is Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) by Role Model. The mellow tracks feel warm and comforting, pulling you in with dreamy melodies. “Look at That Woman” is a personal favorite. It’s the first song I play in the morning to set the tone for a fall day. This album leans more folk and even a bit country compared to Tucker Pillsbury’s earlier work, showing a softer, more poignant side of his sound.
Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago
Notable Tracks: “For Emma,” “Flume,” and “Skinny Love”
Another cold-weather classic is Bon Iver’s For Emma, Forever Ago. In his debut LP, he offers a stripped-down take on a fall soundtrack, with acoustic guitar and yearning vocals that feel raw and intimate. Perfect for cozying up under a blanket with a cup of coffee, Bon Iver’s voice simply sounds like fall. “For Emma” stands out as a timeless track, one that’s rightfully earned its place in nearly everyone’s autumn Spotify playlists.
Blossoms - Gary
Notable Tracks: “Cinnamon,” “Amsterdam in the Rain,” and “Slow Down”
While the track names speak for themselves, Blossom’s newest album carries an indie rock autumnal vibe with a subtly gloomy aura. Grab a latte — or a Guinness — and dive into this upbeat, guitar-driven record that shines in storytelling. The band layers ’80s-inspired synths, giving the album a vintage touch. Gary the Gorilla has become an unofficial muse and mascot, adding a quirky, distinct element to this fall-feeling record.
Del Water Gap - I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet
Notable Tracks: “Coping On Unemployment,” “All We Ever Do Is Talk,” and “Gemini”
Del Water Gap, aka Holden Jaffe, knows how to make a melodramatic track, in the best way possible. This album features an intimate and raw side to Jaffe’s music, where his songwriting really shines. The lyrics are inspired by real, honest experiences and emotions people undergo. On “Coping on Unemployment,” for example, he sings, “It's hard / To give yourself over to something / When it could all turn into nothing.” Overall, it’s a moody, somber record that feels perfectly fitting for a rainy fall day.
Dogpark - Breaking In Brooklyn
Notable Tracks: “Dive Bar Named Nirvana,” “Breaking In Brooklyn,” and “Now It’s Over”
One of my favorite new bands, Dogpark, channels the spirit of ’90s rock, evoking the moody darkness of a city in autumn. Their debut EP, Breaking In Brooklyn, delivers a classic rock sound with a nostalgic edge. The track “Now It’s Over” reflects on past relationships: “I bummed a cigarette on 28th Street / Girl, you walk up to me, cherry red and looking angry.” If you’re a fan of classic rock, Dogpark is the perfect new addition to your playlist.
Soccer Mommy - Evergreen
Notable Tracks: “M,” “Changes,” and “Thinking of You”
Another stripped-down fall album is Evergreen by Soccer Mommy, the alias of Sophie Allison. The record offers a lonely, raw glimpse into her life, reflecting on grief, loss, and acceptance. Romantic pianos, delicate strings, and gentle flutes pair beautifully with her longing vocals, making Evergreen an essential indie rock addition to your fall soundtrack.
