Written by Clove Morgan
Fall… the season of change. School has started back up and everyone is experiencing the annual reinvention of identity. Your music taste is no exception.
What is the first thing you think of when you think of autumn? Is it the changing leaves, warm sweaters, or Halloween festivities? Whatever it may be, you’ll need music to cover it and there is no better time for exploration than the time of year for self-discovery. With many people getting back into the routine of assignment deadlines and preparation for the upcoming holidays, music should be about the fun in it all.
Aesthetic plays a big role in the music we listen to. We need just the right song to fit our mood or to get us into a specific mindset. My recommendation is to curate playlists with these images and feelings in mind. Ask yourself what a song makes you feel as you’re listening and don’t be afraid of mixing and matching sounds, genres, and artists into one playlist!
Let’s start with a given: the study playlist. Find the rhythm that gets your brain into the groove of reading pages upon pages and typing up responses. Personally, I need some quiet and soothing music to relax me while I work. Not to mention, imagine myself in my favorite fictional worlds getting myself ready for the big test. Billie Marten, Rosemary & Garlic, and instrumentals are the key to any successful study session. If there is one thing classes have taught me, it’s that whatever I’m listening to has a huge impact on my work and motivation.
Imagine yourself walking down cobblestone streets, the colorful leaves falling and crunching beneath your feet, and the breeze chilling your cheeks. What song are you listening to? Something unexpected that just so happens to match in time with your steps or something a little more fitting to your surroundings? I know lately I’ve been drawn to the same songs and artists when I’m finding myself going from place to place. I can’t help it. “Doing the Best That I Can” by Stevie Nicks is the perfect commute song and Mazzy Star is an autumn rite of passage to me. Find the songs that make your walk time fly by or mellow you out.
And what of the Halloween lovers? Or those really into the spirit of fall? Well, you can stick to the nostalgic classics. Of course, we all love “Monster Mash”, “Thriller”, and “Ghost Busters” all courtesy of your typical Halloween party. My festive favorite is Donovan’s “Season of the Witch”. So, put on your costumes and hit the town with the unmistakable sound of terrifying tunes. Then again, there’s another feel to Halloween, too. If you have a craving for some fun at the pumpkin patch or are in need for some music to decorate to, I’ve got the picks for you. “Pumpkin” by the Regrettes and “1980s Horror Film II” by Wallows give you that subtle dose of Halloween you’ve been needing.
Most importantly, remember to have an open mind and indulge in the cliché as well as the discovery. It’s the time of year for fun and trying new things. Whether you want to play Halloween movie soundtracks, throwbacks, or feel-good songs, listen to what will get you into the spirit. Autumn is the season of change and memories, your music should reflect all that makes you, well, you!
