Leaves and lyrics: The perfect music pairings for fall
From rock to rap, here are 10 songs to add to your playlist this season
Art by Ira Espita.
As the leaves turn a beautiful auburn and the air grows crisp (or as crisp as it can get in Raincouver), let these rhythmic beats aid your sheets of paper, returning with a high score.
Here’s a list of songs that will pull you into the October serenade and help you study this fall.
“Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
For fans of soft rock, this song is the perfect melody with hints of folk. Reflecting on the themes of introspection and change, along with its consistent beat and smooth vocals, this song truly feels like a fall dream. It’s especially fitting for our city with its references to the rain!
“Ode to a Conversation Stuck in Your Throat” by Del Water Gap
Speaking of folk, this song falls into the indie-folk and pop genre category with its blend of electronic and acoustic elements. Del Water Gap’s heartfelt lyrics allow one to realize and reminisce, making this a must-add to your fall playlist.
“Where’d All The Time Go?” by Dr. Dog
Fitting for the contemplative mood of fall, this indie-rock song has a mellow yet catchy rhythm with emotionally charged lyrics, making it Dr. Dog’s most beloved song. Its slightly retro vibe pulls the listeners into a state of nostalgia, like a trip back to the good old times.
“Lovers Rock” by TV Girl
Ideal for a cozy night or a quiet study session, this song has a hazy vibe to it. Released 10 years ago, this lo-fi, indie-pop song — smooth vocals and all — is the perfect melody to calm our rushing minds.
“New Perspective” by Noah Kahan
This indie-pop song feels like a warm cup of your favourite beverage with its comforting acoustic melodies and raw vocals. Featuring the singer’s signature storytelling along with themes of reflection and personal growth, this is the perfect fall semester soundtrack.
“Sleep On The Floor” by The Lumineers
This song tells a story of taking a chance, living in the moment, and feeling freedom. Its acoustic guitars and raw vocals, accompanied with its music video, make the song both nostalgic and inspiring at the same time, echoing how us students feel most of the time.
“4 Your Eyez Only” by J.Cole
Calling on all the connoisseurs of rap and hip-hop music! This 2016 release is one of the most soulful tracks J.Cole has ever put out. With many life lessons woven into the lyrics, the song delves into themes of vulnerability and mortality. Widely regarded as one of J.Cole’s most profound works, this song inspires self-awareness.
“Everything You’ve Come To Expect” by The Last Shadow Puppets
A super collab band featuring Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Miles Kane (The Rascals) created this cinematic masterpiece of a song. With alluring orchestral arrangements and lyrical themes of disillusionment, expectation, and the passing of time, this song is tailor made for when you wish to feel like the main character in a coming-of-age movie.
“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young
This is a melody that sounds like the essence of autumn distilled into a song. The track is a fall fan favourite, falling into the category of some good ol’ country rock. Each beat resonates the feelings of warmth and reflection, complimented by a beautiful seasonal imagery of autumn.
“White Mustang” by Lana Del Rey
This dreamy pop song, with a touch of glamour, has been winning hearts since 2017. Featuring Rey’s signature ethereal style with a laid-back beat and introspective lyrics, “White Mustang” is a flawless fall fit for those who want to study with an aesthetic background track.
