With the changing of leaves comes a more subdued soundtrack flowing through the headphones of NYU’s campus. As the world slows down, so do the tunes.
That being said, I think there’s a big misconception about what people can and can’t enjoy listening to during the cold and rainy season. Don’t get me wrong, I also fall into this trap every year. How can we not? The acoustic, folk tracks which we find ourselves playing on repeat were practically designed as the perfect compliment to all things pumpkin spice and decorative lights. Soft guitar strums and hazy vocals coddle you on those slow days when the world is best admired from your bedside. But music isn’t meant to be limited, and this fall and winter is the perfect time to give our soothing soundtracks a little more flexibility.
For all of your autumnal listening pleasures, I’ve curated a dreamy collection of songs–vital additions charged with cold weather tones–that are sure to up your playlist game. These are not what you’d typically find on any seasonal playlist. But we’re in New York City! We owe it to ourselves to get a little experimental every once in awhile. Stirring atmospheric and intimate pop combines both electric and acoustic sounds – AKA a confection that could rival even your most intricate Starbucks order. Strong vocals are punctuated by reverberating echoes creating an intoxicating space. The culmination of all these genres and techniques come together to make the beautiful and invigorating music that we all should be experiencing. So let’s inject some vitality into your fall playlist with these alternative hidden gems.
1. Twin Rivers // Big Scary
This song deals with that struggle of having to get out of bed when it feels like our little sanctuary. Use the energizing vibe and relatable lyrics as a way of enjoying your morning routines and as a way of filling you with ambition for the rest of the day!
2. Show Me // Alina Baraz
Alina’s sensual vocals instantly make you feel cool and powerful. Pop this into your headphones during a stroll through SoHo to feel like the ultimate New Yorker.
3. Discoloration // Dawn Golden
The echoes and slow singing are perfect combo for a lazy sunday in bed, with a warm cup of your favorite tea.
4. Going Home // Ásegir
Doing some traveling back home over the Thanksgiving or Winter break? This song will get you sentimental in all the right ways about reconnecting with all your loved ones.
5. Technicolour Beat // Oh Wonder
If you’ve been feeling a creative itch brought up by the new season, run with it. Put this song on as background to some cool art or DIY projects. It will help you ease some homework stress and maybe even create something amazing.
6. Your New Beloved // Lovelife
The cool mesh of beats, vocal distortions, and romantic lyrics are perfect accompaniment to getting ready for a night out.
7. American Money // BØRNS
This song is intense – something about it just makes you want to get up and do something. I suggest using BØRNS dreamy voice to fuel your photographic ambition. Take your camera and snap some pictures of all the beautiful scenery in the city.
8. Let it Go // James Bay
Need a final boost of inspiration for a writing assignment? Look no further than James Bay. His song is both soothing and masterfully crafted.
9. Talk Me Down // Troye Sivan
Sometimes, in the cool weather, we find ourselves feeling down without any traceable reason. That’s okay. Troye Sivan understands and his lyrics provide the perfect comfort when you feel like no one quite understands your mood.
10. Open Season // High Highs
Of course, if you feel ready to get out of your fall funk, this song is a warm and welcomed pick-me-up. It may be about fall, but the sounds call back to a much missed summer vibe. Enjoy while strolling with your friends through central park – it’ll be the perfect way to remind yourself of how lucky you are to be in New York City and to be thankful for all that you have.