As summer cools off, put on a sweater and grab your headphones because there’s nothing more fitting than a fresh soundtrack to accompany your back-to-school season. From anticipated indie-pop releases to familiar comfort tunes from our favorite felty friends, here are the albums that we are falling for this fall — excuse the excessive alliteration.
Seth MacFarlane – “Seth MacFarlane Sings The Muppets”
Who needs a Family Guy when you can have feelings?
On Sept. 18, Seth MacFarlane, the creator of the legendary adult animated shows “Family Guy” and the “Ted” films, released the classic discography of the Muppets from “Movin’ Right Along” to “Rainbow Connection.” Recording took place at Skywalker Ranch with an orchestra of London and Los Angeles musicians, providing a fresh take on these beloved classics.
This may seem out of left field, but MacFarlane is a longtime fan of the Muppets and was recently recognized for his vocal talents alongside his work in animation. The album showcases MacFarlane’s impressive vocals while respecting the charm of the original songs.
It’s the perfect love letter to our felty friends whose wit has always been at the core of MacFarlane’s creations.
-Uziel Puente
Remi Wolf – “Mud”
Remi Wolf is getting her hands dirty with her upcoming album.
Releasing on Oct. 9, “Mud” is singer-songwriter Remi Wolf’s third studio album. A former “American Idol” contestant, Wolf’s music gained popularity on TikTok during the 2020 lockdowns, with the release of her EP “I’m Allergic to Dogs!” and her song “Photo ID,” which featured singer Dominic Fike.
“Mud” gives Wolf her chance to show a different side of her music. Her past two albums have solidified her playful pop production and lyrics, but her newest singles, “Twiggy” and “Bottle,” have already showcased a more grounded and raw vibe. “Mud” promises more personal storytelling, vulnerable themes and an acoustic sound, giving a glimpse into a stripped-back direction for Wolf.
Listeners will have the chance to experience Wolf’s new era with the release of “Mud” in October.
Fontaines D.C. – “Dopamine Chamber”
Escape into the psychedelic echo chamber of Fontaines D.C. this fall.
“Dopamine Chamber” is Fontaines D.C.’s fifth studio album arriving Oct. 16. The Irish rock band is known for its atmospheric and hallucinatory sound, with popular alt-rock hits including “Roman Holiday” and their critically acclaimed 2024 album, “Romance.”
The album’s lead single, “Marianne,” has already amassed several million streams on Spotify since its release in August. The song explores motifs of escapism with its layered vocals and surreal visuals, while preserving the neo-psychedelic sound that Fontaines D.C. does best. The release of “Marianne” delivers a promise to listeners that “Dopamine Chamber” is bound to be gritty, trippy and quintessentially Fontaines.
Fans of alternative and indie rock are bound to feast upon “Dopamine Chamber.”
-Birka Chen
Dominic Fike – “How to Quit Smoking”
Dominic Fike goes the unconventional route with his third album, “How to Quit Smoking.”
The indie pop artist has recently established himself as a prominent name through viral hits like “White Keys” and “misses.” Fike’s new album, “How to Quit Smoking,” is set for an Oct. 9 release following the conclusion of his North America tour, which ran throughout August and September. Lead singles “Wallflower” and “Small Town” deliver catchy melodies and chill vibes in a funky blend of indie pop and R&B.
The premise of “How to Quit Smoking” deviates from a traditional studio album through its unconventional release format. Fike’s project is one that was written and created during his time on the road, releasing demos in real time as they were written while documenting his process on social media. Through this unconventional rollout, Fike creates a more personal and creative connection with his fans.
Get hooked on “How to Quit Smoking” this October.
-Birka Chen
