The last day of summer has come and gone, pushing us into the first week of fall — my favorite season. The days are getting shorter and time seems to be slowing down. Crisp air, crunchy leaves, scarves and pumpkin-flavored everything — fall gives me such a cozy feeling. Here are some songs handpicked to give you happy autumn thoughts.
“Satellite” by Guster
Cool and wistful, this song is perfect for kicking off these cold nights. It always makes me want to grab a blanket and sit out under the stars.
“Two Birds” by Regina Spektor
When birds fly south for the winter, do they leave other bird friends behind? That is the childlike question that always comes to mind when I hear this song. Regina Spektor’s simple melodies and lyrics never fail to make me feel like a kid once again, just in time to jump in a pile of leaves.
“The Gambler” by fun.
A sweet story of lifelong love done in fun.’s unique way. If I had to describe their style in one word, it would be “joyous,” just as the beginning of fall should be. Every song has a free spirited tone that runs through it and The Gambler is no exception.
“The Lucky One” by Alison Krauss and Union Station
Her angelic bluegrass sound is the musical equivalent to that ethereal time in between the last bright days of summer and the onset of colder weather and grayer days.
“Closer to You” by The Wallflowers
The steady march of mellow lyrics make this a wonderful song for that trek to class. Breathe that crisp fall air and put this song on to start your day.
“Pumped Up Kicks” by Jayme Dee
A wonderful twist on the hit song by Foster the People. It’s a much simpler, low-key version and Jayme Dee’s winsome voice turns this song into a completely different creation — the way a cover should be. Throw on your kicks and stroll through a pumpkin patch to this tune.
“Fallen From the Sky” by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova
The raw and emotional style of Glen Hansard is tempered by the fun musical arrangements in this tune. I imagine that if leaves had a theme song for their descent to the ground, this would be it.
“September” by Pomplamoose
Another cover done right, by the indie duo Jack Conte and Nataly Dawn. Fun and upbeat, this song makes me want to dance every time I hear it.
“Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson
In typical Jack Johnson style, this breezy and carefree song is perfect for that lazy Saturday morning. There really isn’t a need to go outside, so enjoy some banana pancakes and a pumpkin spiced latte for breakfast.
“Rainy Day” by Coldplay
The inevitable rainy days are one of the few bummers about fall. But Rainy Day’s drip-drop rhythm and poetic lyrics help me appreciate the days of drizzle just a little bit more.