by Kate Cosentino
Spooky season is officially upon us and it’s time to get in the spirit. From witchy folk vibes to dark pop - this playlist is your gateway into the spirit of Autumn 2020.
Niki’s new album MOONCHILD features several uniquely produced bops, however “Nightcrawlers” takes the cake for weirdest turn. The songs starts as an innocent, lullaby-esque pop tune with no signs of changing until the third chorus section in which the music drops out and Niki’s vocal is pitched down completely. The effect is jarring and sends the song into a dark place that’s even catchier than the bubble gum beginning. Bonus points to her for using the word CADAVER in the lyric.
Phoebe Bridgers album Punisher has been my favorite album of 2020. Period. Every song is a magical journey lyrically and sonically thanks to Phoebe’s raw poetry and Ethan Gruska’s production. Halloween is perfect for the season.
What better for Halloween than a little Devil ditty? This song just so happen to be the theme song for Wynonna Earp which is on hiatus until 2021 for the next season. Catch up on the show and jam out to this awesome Jill Andrews tune.
What. A. Lyric. Derek Webb speaks to a deep emotion and fear I can relate to in his song “Death With Benefits”. I’ll let them speak for themselves - but it absolutely deserves a listen: Nostalgia gets you just as drunk as whiskey does
“It leaves me talking to imaginary friends
Man, it’s hard not to second guess a second guess
It leaves me doubting my doubts and questioning if
The truth is I just miss the myth of death with benefits”
Ethan Gruska’s production for himself and other artists like Phoebe Bridgers speaks to my soul. This song hits home on the idea of doing what you love even if you might go nowhere and the fears that go along with it.
It’s time for the newest in hyper pop - Blimpee. Blimpee’s song “Cruciflex” combines satire with some of the most innovative production I’ve heard this year. Beyond the clever lyrics such as “Like my bible belt? It’s dior.” the song is catchy like a Doja Cat hit. Jam out with your friends to this witty, funny and absolutely danceable new artist.
“Love Me Right” hits all the right notes. Sister’s voice is hauntingly gorgeous. The song sounds like a throwback to the 60’s with a modern twist. Catchy, stunning and perfect for your drive to a pumpkin patch or haunted house.
Local Natives always boast their unique tone of harmonies in every song. “When Am I Gonna Lose You” is no exception. The song beautifully describes the feeling of fear of losing someone you love- having experienced heart break before, this song perfectly speaks to that human fear of wondering: When will this person leave? Bonus points if you listen to the Sylvan Esso or Overcoats versions-both are beautiful in their own way.
A classic jazz standard, “Autumn Leaves” always gets me in the spirit of fall. Eva Cassidy’s incredible breath support strings you along each phrase of the song as the acoustic guitar follows her every word. She holds you in each phrase for as long as she can - personally I wish she could hold me in this song the whole season.