Recommendations for fall

Fall is finally here, and I could not be happier about it. In the past, I've created special autumn playlists to pump me up for apple-picking and pumpkin eating, but this year I'm pretty much listening to the same few albums over and over. So instead, here are a handful of things that have been entertaining me lately.

The Gaslight Anthem - Handwritten

Every time I listen to this album, I fall a little bit more in love with it. Before Handwritten, I was a casual Gaslight listener—I liked a bunch of songs but could not have told you anything about the band. Well, this was the album that transformed me into a fan. Every song has its own personality, yet together they make up such a complete, cohesive collection. Beautiful.

Songbook by Nick Hornby

I bought this book on a whim when I found it used for $2, and I am so glad I did. If you don't know who Nick Hornby is, you should stop reading my blog immediately and run to your nearest bookstore, because he is a far better writer than I am. Songbook is essentially a collection of short essays about his favorite songs. While I am not familiar with most of them, I found myself struck by his musical musings. He took all my passions and emotions towards music and turned them into beautiful prose.

On the concert experience: "...You could feel the whole audience fall in love with her, and the song, and the evening. It was one of those rare moments—miraculous, in the context of a rock show—which make you grateful for the music you know, the music you have yet to hear, the books you have read and are going to read, maybe even the life you live." Amen.

Lost

Years ago, I watched bits and pieces with my college roommate, but I have finally decided to watch this show from the beginning. I am so with the times. Do you think George W. Bush will get reelected, you guys?

Blaqk Audio - Bright Black Heaven

Electronic music isn't usually my thing, but I'll buy pretty much anything Davey Havok wants to sell me. This album was actually finished years ago but did not make it to shelves until a couple weeks ago, so I'm just grateful to finally have it in my possession. I haven't decided yet if it's as good as their previous release, CexCells, but I do know that "Let's Be Honest" makes me dance like a fool and "Ill-Lit Ships" is one of my all-time favorite BA songs. Not too shabby.

Tell The Wolves I'm Home by Carol Rifka Brunt

A short blurb won't do this book justice. Usually after finishing a book, I close it and move on with my life, but after this one, I sat speechless for a while. It's a coming of age tale about 14-year-old June and how the death of her uncle turns her world upside down. The story was moving and the writing is just poetic.  

There you have it. And this upcoming Tuesday, three different bands I love are putting out new albums, so I will soon be flooded with even more recommendations. Until then, enjoy.

Soundtrack for Autumn

Autumn is always my favorite season, and it is especially beautiful in my beloved New Hampshire. So naturally, I need a soundtrack to accompany all the apple picking, pumpkin carving and jumping into piles of leaves. Don't worry, I'm not going to suggest "Monster Mash" songs (although who am I kidding? That song is awesome).

1. Halloween - AFI
Self-explanatory. The goth/punk/rock quartet's Misfits cover is the perfect way to get in the spooky mood.
2. Blood, Sex and Booze - Green Day
I know, I know - this is from the Green Day album that nobody liked. But I happen to love Warning, and for some reason, it always reminds me of fall. This may be because of the bright orange disc or maybe just because I used to listen to it while running for my high school field hockey team. But no matter the reason, give Warning a listen, because it is under appreciated for sure.
3. All I Ever Wanted (live) - The Airborne Toxic Event
I already reviewed The Airborne Toxic Event's brand new live album here. Long story short: it's beautiful. Do yourself a favor and listen to it now.
4. Cut - Jimmy Eat World
This song is fresh off the band's new album, Invented. I was a little confused about Jim Adkins singing about a boy at first, although in this Absolute Punk interview, he says he wrote from other peoples' perspectives. The one thing I do know is that I adore this song.
5. Bird of the Summer - A Fine Frenzy

I live in the prettiest place ever.

I know "summer" is in the title, but don't worry. The entire album (Bomb in a Birdcage) is actually perfect for fall, but this one has lyrics like "The leaves changed their colors and the schoolyards were filled / My coat with the patches barely keeps out the chill." See also: "Elements" and "Happier" and pretty much every AFF song ever.
6. Roslyn - Bon Iver
Yeah okay, this song was on the latest Twilight soundtrack. Damn those movies for having great music! But the haunting melody and soft vocals will linger long past the end of the song, and you'll be glad you gave it a chance.
7. Dust Bowl Dance - Mumford and Sons
Another album chock full of great fall songs. Set up a bonfire and get folky with these Brits.
8. Read My Mind - Amory Sivertson
My friend Amory makes lovely music. I reviewed her CD a few months ago, and you should check it out because it will have you frolicking about in no time.
9. Summer Skin - Death Cab for Cutie
Another song with "summer" in the title, but it's actually about summer ending. Yeah, it's a little depressing but it's pretty, and that's all that matters.
10. Autumn Shade - The Vines
I totally forgot The Vines existed until I did a search for "autumn" in my iTunes. Good jam though.
11. Just For Once - Midnight Youth
I adore this band and not just because they are from New Zealand (although I will admit, being a Kiwi automatically makes me like you a little more). This is their brand new single and I was planning to promote it before I even heard it. So how convenient that they sing about the "first sign of autumn leaves." Thanks, guys.
12. Under The Milky Way - The Church
I first discovered this song via the Donnie Darko soundtrack. The movie takes place throughout the month of October and climaxes on Halloween night. Seems appropriate. It's also just a slightly spooky classic 80s song.
13. Red Star - Third Eye Blind
Every mix I make has a 3eb song on it. Get over it.

When I'm not busy rockin' out, I'm making awesome pumpkins like this.