As the seasons change, we often find ourselves searching for different themed activities to accompany them. One of these activities can be the music that we listen to, and how it can help us make the transition from summer into fall. With that said, here is a collection of albums that I feel best represent the feeling of fall.

Sounds of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel

Folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel’s second album Sounds of Silence perfectly encapsulates the essence of autumn. With slow acoustic melodies such as the famous line “Hello darkness my old friend,” “Kathy’s Song,” and upbeat electronic beats like “Leaves That Are Green”, the 1966 album simultaneously evokes familiar feelings of comfort and loneliness that truly represent the aesthetic, for lack of a better word, of fall. While I personally believe that the large majority of Simon & Garfunkel’s discography can be associated with the sounds of autumn, Sounds of Silence is truly the most autumnal.

Folklore by Taylor Swift

For reference, I definitely do not consider myself a swiftie, but even I can admire the craftsmanship of Taylor Swift’s highly successful debut into her short-lived folk era. Listening to tracks like “cardigan” and “illicit affairs” on evening walks is essential to creating the perfect autumn. Swift’s album shows true inspiration from classic folk music while still maintaining her signature style and spin on modern music. Even if you view Taylor Swift’s discography as overrated, I definitely recommend giving Folklore a listen.

Sweet Baby James by James Taylor

To further explore the genre of folk-rock, James Taylor captures the warm and fuzzy feelings of pumpkin patches and apple orchards that make fall complete. Slow classics such as “Fire and Rain” and “Country Road” (not the John Denver one), can appeal to anyone who’s looking for well-written lyrics to compliment easy-listening acoustic melodies.