Fall Playlist: Your Next Listen!

By Isabella Hill '25

No matter what platform you use, music can be a welcome escape—even if just for a moment—from the weight of Quarter One ending, the start of Quarter Two, and, for seniors, the relentless pressure of college applications. These are a few of my personal favorite tracks that I hope will bring you into the cozy spirit of fall and provide a well-deserved break from the stress in your life.

1. “Linger,” The Cranberries
   

A perfect fit for the autumn season, “Linger” by The Cranberries blends a haunting melody with a dreamy tone that lingers (see what I did there) in your mind long after it ends, making it as catchy as it is evocative. Dolores O'Riordan’s lilting vocals add an emotional depth that feels both tender and powerful, echoing themes of love, regret, and nostalgia. The song’s layered instrumentals, such as the soft strumming of the guitar and delicate strings, create a melancholic tone that captures those quiet, introspective moments, like walking through a patch of crunchy leaves or drinking a cup of hot chocolate or cider after a long week. As it fades out, “Linger” leaves a sense of yearning that feels perfectly in tune with the season.

1. “Paper Bag,” Fiona Apple
   

While not distinctly fall-themed, Fiona Apple’s “Paper Bag” from her album When the Pawn is a must-have for any playlist. Sure, I’m a bit biased…I love Fiona Apple. But hear me out, and you might just find a new favorite artist or song! This song combines witty, introspective lyrics with captivating acoustics, creating an intimate, almost cinematic experience; you might feel like you’re floating away, being carried into another world or dimension. Fiona’s raw vocal delivery brings a sense of vulnerability, drawing listeners into her world of longing, self-reflection, and pain. There’s a timeless quality to all of her songs, but especially this one, as she navigates complex emotions with such honesty and nuance. Whether or not you’re already a fan, it’s impossible not to be drawn in.

1. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” Blue Oyster Cult
   

With its eerie vibe and iconic guitar riff, this classic from Blue Öyster Cult feels like a soundtrack to the season, balancing its haunting feel with a laid-back melody that’s instantly recognizable. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” delves into themes of love, mortality, and the inevitability of life’s cycles, making it both unsettling and comforting—like the crisp chill of a fall breeze. The lyrics suggest a sense of courage in facing the unknown and embracing the mystery of life. It's a perfect companion for the fall season, offering an unforgettable mix of melancholy and mystique.

1. “California Dreamin’,” The Mamas & The Papas
   

As autumn takes hold, “California Dreamin’” captures that yearning for warmth. The song’s flute solo and layered vocals from The Mamas & The Papas evoke a sense of longing that feels perfectly suited to chilly days and falling leaves. It’s about the desire for escape, a wish for sunnier places even as cold weather settles in, and that sentiment resonates deeply with New England weather starting to gear up. With its vivid imagery of gray skies and brown leaves, “California Dreamin’” offers a comforting embrace for those longing for light and warmth.

1. “Kiss Me,” Sixpence None The Richer
   

“Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer is a light, nostalgic tune that feels like the carefree side of fall—a perfect soundtrack for a crisp, sunny afternoon. With its sweet, romantic lyrics, the song brings a touch of warmth and innocence that pairs beautifully with the season’s beauty. The soft acoustic melody has a gentle, swaying rhythm, making it feel like a soundtrack for moments of simple joy. Leigh Nash’s airy vocals add a dreamy quality, making the song feel like a cozy escape from reality. It’s a track that reminds us of simpler times, perfect for unwinding and taking in the beauty of fall and accepting the cold weather ahead. 

I hope you give some of these songs a listen as you hang onto and appreciate the last few weeks of fall! Layer up as you brave the great outdoors and enjoy blasting music in your headphones, records, CDs, etc.