Ah, fall. Crisp, colorful leaves float in the wind. Boyfriend sweaters make their much welcomed appearance back into our closets. Baristas trade in ice coffees for warm hot chocolates. Boots in brown, black, grey, and red cling and clank against the concrete. An air of chilliness brings people together and makes hugs last a little longer. Autumn seems to come and go quicker than any of the seasons, but its shortness adds to its sweetness. To make the most out of this time of the year, make sure that you have the following artists on your fall playlist. Their sound echoes Autumn’s presence, chilly and cozy at the same time.
Eric Hutchinson
Soulful, folk pop is how I’d describe Hutchinson’s style. There’s homage to a lot of different artists in his discography, like Stevie Wonder, the Beatles, Billy Joel, Jason Mraz, and Cat Stevens. Hutchinson has attributed his songs to his travels, the people he met, and the human experience in its entirety. His work is a nice change of pace from sad songs with deep lyrics or pop songs with somewhat shallow messages – Hutchinson’s is a mix. “Intellectual pop” is what critics have called it. I just call it good music.
The 1975
If you haven’t hopped on The 1975 train, then do it right now. There’s a reason (many actually) why this band has blown up the charts and social media. They’re a fresh sound that sounds hauntingly beautiful, sinful, and sensual. When asked about influences, lead Matt Healy attributed the Talking Heads, Prince, My Bloody Valentine, Michael Jackson, Peter Gabriel, Brian Eno, and D’angelo. But, honestly, they’re unlike any band out there in the best possible way.
Jake Bugg
British born and raised Bugg may have came to fame with his hit Lightning Bolt, but he has so much more to offer. Influenced by Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, and the Beatles, Bugg’s style is absolutely enchanting and enthralling, making you want to listen just one more time.
Ben Rector
If you’re looking for an artist with a lot up of his sleeves, take a listen to Ben Rector. His style is similar to Jason Mraz. His songs linger between soulful blues to folk pop to even some dance numbers. It makes you wanna tap your foot and nod your head. He even has a song named Autumn, meaning he definutely deserves a spot on your playlist. Check him out!
Bastille
They’re on this list, simply because if you haven’t listened to their CD Bad Blood all the way through, then you’re doing yourself a severe injustice. It’s a wonderful, beautiful experience accompanied best with drizzling rain and the warmth of your heaviest quilt.
Ed Sheeran
The feel of the fall season spills from Sheeran’s bluesy, folk, soulful tune. Not only does his tune sound right, but so do his lyrics. His lyrics evoke emotion, engaging you as an audience member to let the music touch you and shape you. He’s a ginger, too, which makes him that much cooler.
The Wild Feathers
Lucky was I to discover these guys last year at Spring Jam Music Fest. Their sound is full of soul, funk, and folk. While it may be too country for you at first listen, take a second or thid one, because I guarantee you’ll start liking it. The Wild Feathers nod to country and folk greats before them, like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan. Below is a song of theirs that was made for an Autumn bonfire.