Top 19 Must-See Albums, Shows, and Music Books This Fall
As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, the fall season brings an exciting wave of new music and live performances. From iconic bands reuniting to must-read music books, here’s a curated list of the 19 hottest albums, shows, and books to keep on your radar this autumn.
1. Pulp at Hollywood Palladium and Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Pulp, the legendary Britpop band, makes a long-awaited return to the U.S. after more than a decade. Catch them live at the Hollywood Palladium on September 18-19 and at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery on September 21. This tour is especially poignant as it’s dedicated to the memory of bassist Steve Mackey, who passed away last year.
2. Bob Dylan & the Band – “The 1974 Live Recordings”
On September 20, dive into the monumental 27-disc box set documenting Bob Dylan’s 1974 tour with the Band. This collection captures every professionally recorded show from Dylan’s first tour after an eight-year hiatus, including his iconic Valentine’s Day performance at the Forum in Inglewood.
3. Sophie – “Sophie”
Mark September 27 on your calendar for the release of Sophie’s posthumous album, lovingly finalised by those closest to her. The pioneering hyperpop artist’s second solo LP includes collaborations with Kim Petras and Evita Manji, offering a glimpse into what could have been a game-changing record.
4. Alan Sparhawk – “White Roses, My God”
The debut solo album by Alan Sparhawk, frontman of indie-rock trio Low, drops on September 27. “White Roses, My God” features a collection of introspective synth-based tunes, a heartfelt tribute to his late wife and bandmate, Mimi Parker.
5. Ohana Festival at Doheny State Beach
From September 27-29, the Ohana Festival returns with headliners Pearl Jam, performing on both the opening and closing nights. Other top acts include Sting, Devo, Alanis Morissette, and Jenny Lewis, promising a diverse and star-studded lineup at Dana Point’s picturesque Doheny State Beach.
6. Air at Orpheum Theatre
Experience the ambient magic of Air as they perform their classic 1998 album “Moon Safari” at the Orpheum Theatre on September 29-30. Fresh from their appearance at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony, Nicolas Godin and Jean-Benoît Dunckel bring their downtempo electronic sounds to Los Angeles.
7. Tems at Greek Theatre
Tems, the Nigerian singer known for her alluring voice, graces the Greek Theatre on October 1. Her album “Born in the Wild” is a standout of the year, blending lush melodies with powerful lyrics.
8. Kacey Musgraves at Kia Forum
On October 3-4, don’t miss Kacey Musgraves at the Kia Forum, performing tracks from her latest album “Deeper Well”. With opening acts Father John Misty and Nickel Creek, this is a must-attend event for fans of pop-leaning country.
9. Leon Bridges – “Leon”
Leon Bridges releases his self-titled album on October 4, created in collaboration with Ian Fitchuk and Daniel Tashian. This new record echoes the serene vibes of Musgraves’ “Deeper Well” while showcasing Bridges’ signature style.
10. Coldplay – “Moon Music”
Coldplay drops their 10th studio album, “Moon Music,” on October 4. With tracks featuring a rainbow emoji in the title, this album continues the band’s tradition of emotionally charged, uplifting music.
11. Finneas – “For Cryin’ Out Loud!”
Finneas, known for his work with sister Billie Eilish, releases his second solo album on October 4. “For Cryin’ Out Loud!” follows up his successful debut “Optimist” and promises more of his signature introspective and melodic sound.
12. Omar Apollo at Hollywood Bowl
On October 5, Omar Apollo takes the stage at the Hollywood Bowl. His recent album “God Said No” blends heartfelt breakup songs with vibrant club tracks, making this his largest L.A. headlining show to date.
13. Charli XCX and Troye Sivan at Kia Forum
Catch Charli XCX and Troye Sivan together at the Kia Forum on October 15-16. Their joint arena tour has been highly anticipated, with Charli XCX’s latest album propelling her into the spotlight as a genuine pop star.
14. Life Is a Carnival: A Musical Celebration of Robbie Robertson at Kia Forum
On October 17, join a host of musical legends including Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, and Bob Weir at the Kia Forum for a tribute to the late Robbie Robertson. This star-studded event honours the former Band member and his influential career.
15. American Football – “American Football (Covers)”
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of their debut album, American Football releases a covers album on October 18. This special project features new renditions of their tracks by artists such as Iron & Wine, Blondshell, and Ethel Cain.
16. Joni Mitchell and the Joni Jam at Hollywood Bowl
Joni Mitchell performs at the Hollywood Bowl on October 19-20, continuing her triumphant return to live performance. Following her recent shows at the Newport Folk Festival, this is a chance to experience her iconic music in her adopted hometown.
17. Robert Hilburn – “A Few Words in Defense of Our Country: The Biography of Randy Newman”
On October 22, former Times music critic Robert Hilburn releases his latest book. This biography of Randy Newman offers an in-depth look at the life and career of one of America’s great songwriters.
18. Maxwell and Jazmine Sullivan at Kia Forum
Maxwell and Jazmine Sullivan join forces for a night of R&B excellence at the Kia Forum on October 27. Their performance promises a rich exploration of love and its complexities through their powerful vocals.
19. Sabrina Carpenter at Crypto.com Arena and Kia Forum
Wrapping up the season, Sabrina Carpenter will be performing at the Crypto.com Arena on November 15 and at the Kia Forum on November 17-18. After summer hits like “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” her first arena tour supports her latest album “Short n’ Sweet.”
This fall promises an array of musical delights, from classic rock legends and emerging pop stars to exciting book releases. Be sure to mark these dates and experience the rich tapestry of live music and literature coming your way.
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