With summer passing, the commencement of autumn brings shorter days, lower temperatures, and most importantly, fitting music to play. Here are six autumn song picks to build your playlist this season while you enjoy trips to the pumpkin patch, bake warm goods, and explore haunted houses.
“Harvest Moon” By Neil Young
Released in November 1992 under an album of the same name, Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon” embraces the autumn spirit with a warm melody and comforting lyrics. The title refers to the full moon in September which typically falls on or near the autumnal equinox. Symbolizing the warmth of a happy relationship, Young’s song has been covered countless times by artists such as Jane Birkin and Lord Huron, covers that are worth a listen. The original “Harvest Moon” delivers a beautiful acoustic melody and is most certainly recommended for easing into the cozy and mellow atmosphere of autumn.
“Season of the Witch” By Donovan
The Scottish singer-songwriter’s original track off of the 1966 album Sunshine Superman quickly became a staple of the spooky season. The psychedelic pop melody, trippy song contents, and eerie lyrics have always been strongly associated with Halloween, but the song’s popularity was strengthened after being covered by artist Lana Del Rey for the 2019 film Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark. Both the cover and the original are great listens for those who want to lean more into the dark, witchy vibe of autumn, evoking spooky emotions in their respective styles.
“Autumn Sweater” By Yo La Tengo
Delivering relaxing vocals, smooth guitar lines, and rhythmic percussion sections, many songs within indie rock band Yo La Tengo’s discography make great contenders for those looking for calm yet energetic songs to accompany their autumn walks or chilly mornings. The track’s name should be enough of a giveaway to suggest why this song makes the list. “Autumn Sweater” is the eighth track off of the band’s critically acclaimed album I Can Hear the Heart Beating as One, released in 1997. With a unique yet strong rhythm part, this song is heavily recommended for its easy-listening and cozy vibe.
“Leaf House” By Animal Collective
Diverting towards something perhaps much more unique, “Leaf House” is the primary track on experimental pop band Animal Collective’s album Sung Tongs. Released in 2004 under the genre known as freak folk, it takes inspiration from 2000 horror novel House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski. Both the lyrics and the melody of “Leaf House” deliver an eerie and haunting, yet comforting feel. Driven by a strong acoustic and percussion section, the vocals are unconventional but aptly fitting for the song. “Leaf House” and other tracks by Animal Collective aren’t for everyone, but they are great recommendations for those into alternative and experimental music.
“People are Strange” By The Doors
Similar to “Season of the Witch,” the chilling mood of “People are Strange” makes a great addition to the Halloween season. Released off of the 1967 album Strange Days by the influential psychedelic rock band The Doors, “People are Strange” quickly became one of their biggest hits. It employs a very antisocial and outsider-type feeling to it. Furthermore, the song was covered by new-wave band Echo and the Bunnymen for the comedy horror film The Lost Boys in 1987, a Halloween classic about vampires. “People are Strange” pairs perfectly with a dark, foggy, autumn evening.
“Sacrifice” By London After Midnight
London After Midnight’s “Sacrifice” is nothing short of gothic rock, utilizing thunderstorm ambiance to accompany the haunting bells and electric organs driving the melody. Released off of the 1992 album Selected Scenes From the End of the World, “Sacrifice” provides the perfect gothic atmosphere to sink into on chilly autumn nights.
