As an avid Spotify user (if you use Apple Music please do not approach me), I knew this prompt would be the perfect way to ease into the upcoming season. The steady winds that accompany each evening have started to showcase how different New York weather is; it’s less temperamental. Sudden chills push fallen leaves across my Mary Janes and increase my nonchalant aura. It’s all about your energy, and there’s got to be music to match. Here are some albums that conjure images of orange leaves, coffee and tea, and bundling in puffers. 

My top five ‘fall-coded’ albums: 

Evermore by Taylor Swift 

Starting off strong, this album is well-known amongst many fans of Taylor Swift. As most can gather, Swift weaves powerful stories inside well-shaped verses – leaving listeners to connect the dots and form the complete narrative. This album differs from others in a certain, almost unexplainable way; her soft hums and added background noise supply an interesting yet peaceful soundscape. Ranging from a song about reconnecting with a past love in her hometown, and avenging a best friend by murdering her husband, this album has twists and turns that will entertain anyone. 

For Emma, Forever Ago by Bon Iver 

Taking its place as the perfect ‘sad girl album’, Bon Iver cultivates a depressing, yet cozy energy that wraps listeners in a blanket of emotion. The constant, overlaid vocals create a whirlwind where sadness and deep thoughts dance comfortably as one. As an artist, Bon Iver makes an effort to relax listeners, while also torturing them with the chance to deeply ponder both their past, and future. For those who know the lore and say I should be putting I,I – you win. This is technically his winter album, but I’m still getting into I,I and For Emma, Forever Ago holds a special place in my heart. 

Two Hands by Big Thief 

As one of my more recent discoveries, ‘Two Hands’ tingles ears with a string of constant whispery vocals and acoustic strums. On ‘Wolf’ the vocals craftily shift with the picks and thrums, creating a calming and smooth lullaby. Although the instruments and vocals may be stronger in some songs, the lead singer brings a graceful, soft aura to each song; it draws listeners in and 

Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers 

Starting with slow, Nirvana-esque strings on ‘DVD Menu,’ ‘Punisher’ exudes a mysterious orb that encapsulates what it means to be a rich guy with a techy suit in Gotham City. Similar to the narratives that Swift creates, Bridgers tells stories of past love, the passage of time, and much more. She describes recurring dreams, learning how to forgive the people who are supposed to look after you, and the pits of melancholy. A word to anyone who wants to give this album a listen: be prepared to rethink every. moment. of. your. life… ever. 

 Jinx by Crumb 

With lulling beats and dreamy vocals, ‘Jinx’ guarantees a killer study sesh, nap, or hangout with friends. Being the perfect album to lazily slouch around your room to, I frequently toss the album on to decompress after a stressful day. The constant flow of instruments not only makes listeners feel like they are on psychedelics spinning in an office chair, but also builds a sacred energy that is inescapable. It’s easy to guarantee that if you throw the album on, the mesmerizing chimes and thumping of drums can melt away any worries. I actually feel like I could fall asleep writing thiwuhfx2mnfshawnefob2ojde2n