Ahhh, it’s the first day of fall! Football, foliage, crisp air, and crunchy leaves are here—and so are the seasonal tunes. Now, when you think of seasonal music in the fall, of course, you’re hearing “Monster Mash,” “Thriller,” and *The Nightmare Before Christmas* soundtracks. But that’s not what I mean when I say fall music—although both of those songs are certified classic.

No, when the leaves start to turn, it’s time for classic fall albums. For me, these are typically indie folk records from the early aughts. Don’t get me wrong, these artists always hit, but they play even better with a nip in the air. So, here are my five favorite fall records, presented in no particular order or rank.

1) Boxer – The National (2007)

In the first 30 seconds of the album, Matt Berninger name-checks picking apples and making apple pie. Clearly, it’s a fall album. But if you’re not sold on those specifics early on, these twelve tracks are the perfect companion for a hooded sweatshirt, ranging from moody defiance to distraught hopelessness.

2) For Emma, Forever Ago – Bon Iver (2007)

Not all fall days are bright and sunny. Bon Iver’s debut album is a great reminder that winter is coming. Recorded alone in a cabin, the earthy melodies and stripped-down folk chords back up Justin Vernon’s masterfully crafted songs.

3) The Lumineers – The Lumineers (2012)

HEY! Fall doesn’t officially start until you hear your first “Ho Hey” of the season. The Lumineers' self-titled debut album clocks in at a brisk 42 minutes and plays perfectly in order. The album is upbeat and hopeful, romanticizing new love, nestled between all the claps and snaps that defined the 2010s folk revival.

4) Transatlanticism – Death Cab For Cutie (2003)

Similar to For Emma, Forever Ago, Transatlanticism is a great reminder that the days are getting shorter. This concept album, written about a long-distance relationship, is full of bittersweet ballads. Ben Gibbard penned the record after a long tour and a failed relationship. It’s the perfect album for those longing for summer and wondering what could have been.

5) Blood on the Tracks – Bob Dylan (1975)

Something about the season lends itself well to heartbreak music. In my opinion, this is Bob Dylan’s best album, and probably the best breakup album of all time—a competitive genre, for sure. Blood on the Tracks marked a return to an acoustic arrangement, which pairs well with the lyrics that speak to longing, regret, and eventual acceptance.

That’s my top five fall favorites. I’ll include a link to a Spotify playlist so you can dive in. If I missed any records you feel strongly about, or if you have another album that fits perfectly from the end of September through November, let me know. And if you live in a state with seasons, make sure to drink it all in—because it’ll be gone too soon.