Music to jam out to this fall

I’ll be honest. I tend to over-romanticize the fall season. But with the reemergence of cable knit sweaters, boots, hot tea and pumpkin-flavored everything, who wouldn’t? Fall has its very own mood, and even though it isn’t what I would call “cold” just yet, I can’t help but want to give everything in my life an autumn overhaul – starting with my iTunes.

Don’t get me wrong; I love the upbeat tempo and unfailing optimism of those top 40 summer pop jams, but as it starts to get cooler and the leaves start to change colors, I find myself craving music with a darker sound for those cold mornings and clear afternoons.

So, in the spirit of the fall, here are some of my favorite albums for this time of year!

1. Frank by Amy Winehouse
   Inspired by Frank Sinatra and with lyrics that are – well – frank, this album is jazzy and soulful with a contemporary R&B sound. While I’m snapping my fingers and scatting along as a trumpet plays, this album reminds me that, despite having a tumultuous life and career, Winehouse had no shortage of talent. (Rest in peace, Amy.)
2. nostalgia,ULTRA by Frank Ocean
   Ocean’s debut mixtape never fails to give me chills with his ethereal sound and simple yet effective lyrics. channel ORANGE is perfect for summertime, but nostalgia,ULTRA is laid-back enough to make me want to sip a chai latte under a tree and contemplate the meaning of life.
3. Give Up by The Postal Service
   Although I’ll admit I blast this album all year, Give Up always reminds me of waking up to warm sunlight on a cool autumn morning. Its “indietronica” sound is upbeat and its lyrics are thought-provoking, balancing a light-hearted sound with the perfect amount of substance.
4. Deja Entendu by Brand New
   This album and I go way back. Indie/alternative rock at its finest, Brand New’s second album delivers complex and thoughtful songs, from its lyrics to its harmonies. It’s perfect for curing (or maybe indulging) your fall angst during midterms and exams.
5. good kid, m.A.A.d city by Kendrick Lamar
   One of the biggest rappers out right now, Kendrick Lamar did not disappoint with the drop of his second studio album. It might just be one of my favorite hip hop albums of all time with its narrative structure and eloquent lyricism, but it’s even better for the fall when I’m looking to really vibe to something.