As daylight hours dwindle and colourful leaves fade, November is a particularly grey and gloomy month. The golden autumn days of October are ending, but the festive season isn’t quite here yet. During this in-between period, a little dose of extra comfort can go a long way. That’s why I’ve handpicked a selection of cosy songs to keep you going.
‘Harvest Moon’ - Neil Young A quintessential autumn song, it captures the beauty and comfort of earlier autumn days. With its gentle acoustic guitar, soft drum brushes, soothing background harmonies and a soulful harmonica part, the song invites you to slow down and enjoy the tender quietness of this season before the hectic holiday days begin.
‘Not a Perfect Day’ - Mando Diao This is a melancholic tune by a Swedish band, featuring a soothing acoustic guitar, which sets a calm and reflective tone. The simplistic vocal delivery and gentle percussion add to the bittersweet lyrics, reflecting on longing and moments of quiet despair. It’s an ideal song for embracing the more meditative days of November.
‘Leaves That Are Green’ - Simon and Garfunkel Offering a more upbeat and hopeful perspective, the folky vibes of this duo pair beautifully with the lyrical themes of the passage of time. Together, they resonate very well with the days wedged between golden October and the festive spirit of December. The harmonious vocals add some warmth to this time of transition.
‘Fade Into You’ - Mazzy Star My list would not be complete without this classic. The song’s ethereal soundscape, featuring Hope Sandoval’s hauntingly beautiful vocals, conveys deep feelings of yearning and contemplation. Although the song carries a touch of pain and sadness, it still maintains a dreamy comfort, making it a perfect companion for a calming autumnal walk.
‘Secret Meeting’ - The National Lastly, I needed to include one of my all-time favourite bands. Few things feel more uplifting than songs that describe your experiences in ways you have never heard before, and The National are masters at this. Though I’m tempted to suggest their entire discography, I’ve narrowed it down to this one song. The layered guitars, steady percussion, and Matt Berninger’s deep, vibrant vocals combined with poetic lyrics like “I had a secret meeting in the basement of my brain” create a brooding, immersive atmosphere that perfectly captures the introspective mood of late autumn.
