As the seasons finally start to turn, here are a few songs that have been slowly creeping up my rotation as we get closer to cooler temperatures. Some of these might fit right into your fall playlist, too.
Wolf Alice – “Passenger Seat”
Wolf Alice has been a band that’s always been on my radar, but it was only this year when I finally fell head over heels for them.
While I think all of their albums are some form of great, their newest, The Clearing, is maybe their most intriguing. Mixing their signature indie and alt-rock sound with a more polished sheen found in a lot of ’70s classics from the Rolling Stones to Fleetwood Mac, it’s definitely a shift for them, but one that fits quite well. Especially for a band over a decade into their career, still willing to experiment and take risks, it’s nothing short of inspiring and respectable.
The track “Passenger Seat” just screams fall breeze to me. Everything from the impeccable groove to frontwoman Ellie Rowsell’s captivating voice, the song almost reminds me of a classic Joni Mitchell or Carly Simon cut, but with that little extra indie rock push. It is a lovely track on a great record.
Joey Valence & Brae – “HAVE TO CRY”
Beloved hip-hop duo Joey Valence & Brae returned this year with an album all about dancing, growing up, and having fun. Fan favorite “HAVE TO CRY” is one I personally haven’t been able to put down. From the bombastic drums to the gorgeous Bobby Caldwell sample flip, the duo continues to ooze energy and charisma while also taking a moment to reflect and open up like never before.
Prince – “Strange Relationship”
In celebration of his incredible concert film Sign ‘O’ the Times being re-released in IMAX last month, I’ve been coming back to Prince’s classic album of the same name. One of my personal favorites has always been “Strange Relationship.” With the juxtaposition of that funky, playful beat against the rather toxic, doomed relationship being discussed, I can’t help but dance and feel concerned while listening. This is one of Prince’s finest deep cuts.
Nick Drake – “Place to Be”
After finally picking up this timeless record on vinyl recently, I’ve regained an appreciation for Nick Drake’s songwriting, especially on “Place to Be.” This breezy acoustic ballad about wishing for youth and simpler times will never not be relevant, and Drake’s calming voice is nothing short of beautifully tender.
Geese – “Taxes”
One of the most exciting bands to come out of the decade so far is back with maybe my favorite song of theirs yet. Geese channels their influence of ‘70s classics and garage rock for a track with one of the best build-ups of the year. Starting off with sparse percussion and strings along with Cameron Winter’s signature raspy, throaty delivery, “Taxes’” second half is nothing short of jam-band bliss, making for such a rewarding finish.
Hayley Williams – “Parachute”
While I’ve been completely immersed in the new Hayley Williams record, “Parachute” is a definite highlight. Possibly chronicling the end of a relationship, this track practically rips you in half with its lyrics, Williams’ always stellar voice, and booming guitars reminiscent of Paramore’s Brand New Eyes or self-titled days. This is an incredible song from an incredible artist and beloved frontwoman.
Quadeca & Kevin Abstract – “Abandon Me”
While Quadeca’s not busy making one of the most forward-thinking and adventurous albums of the year with Vanisher, Horizon Scraper, he’s crafting one of the best and most emotive cuts on Kevin Abstract’s new group record, Blush. “Abandon Me” is classic Quadeca through and through, with a sparse beat and self-doubt-fueled lyrics all on top of an earworm of a melody. Gorgeous tune.
Clipse – “E.B.I.T.D.A.”
As I continue to spin this new Clipse album, “E.B.I.T.D.A.” is easily the track I keep coming back to the most. While masked as this shorter, interlude-style track in the middle of the album, it never lets off the gas with stellar bars from Pharrell, Pusha T, and Malice, all seamlessly flowing together for an ever-invigorating track. This is one of many absolute bangers from this fantastic comeback record.
Dijon – “Yamaha”
Dijon remains near the top of the indie pop stratosphere with his new album, Baby. “Yamaha” might be my favorite on the record with its abrasive synths, crisp keys and guitars, and one of the stickiest choruses of Dijon’s career thus far. No wonder Bieber wanted to work with him.
Carly Rae Jepsen – “More”
Carly Rae Jepsen’s seminal, cult classic album Emotion just turned 10 this year, so to celebrate, she’s planning to release an expanded anniversary edition with some previously unreleased tracks. “More” was our first taste of those new songs, and as soon as I heard it, I knew it could go toe to toe with some of the album’s core classics like “Gimme Love,” “Your Type,” and even “Run Away with Me,” though that track is nearly untouchable pop perfection.
If anything, this re-release could get more people talking about Jepsen as a serious pop artist again and how Emotion is truly one of the defining pop albums of this century so far.
Turnstile – “LIGHT DESIGN”
Spoiler: this is my favorite record of the year so far. I keep finding little things to love about Turnstile’s NEVER ENOUGH, and this song specifically is one of the shining examples of that. “LIGHT DESIGN,” while maybe one of the more understated tracks on the surface, packs an emotional punch over these clashing guitars, layered synths, and Brendan Yates’ yearning, glorious vocals. Turnstile summer was real to me; maybe it can be real to you in the fall.
Little Simz – “Free”
Beloved UK rapper Little Simz ends this list with not only one of my favorite songs of the summer, but also of the year so far.
“Free” reminded me why Simbi is such a gifted, important storyteller and lyricist of our time. As you’re carried through the song by this smooth, soul-inspired hook, “Wishing that the love will set us free,” Simz discusses the importance of self-love, compassion, and empathy, especially when you’re at your lowest.
In a world that seems to be constantly fueled by hatred, war, and trauma, what can we do but try a little harder to love ourselves and, in turn, the people around us? Simz hopes that embracing the love you have that little bit more could eventually lead to a better, brighter tomorrow. It’s hard to believe anyone would be opposed to that. This is such a beautiful track that I guarantee will stay with me for years to come.
