October is here, which means it is officially time for music that feels like crisp air, candlelight, red wine and a Saturday night at your favorite honky tonk.

This week’s picks take us from a mysterious game of chess to songs made for back roads, complicated crushes and sawdust dance floors. We also have a beautiful new album from an artist you are going to want on your radar.

Let’s get into it!

1. SAM PALLADIO – “Midnight Chess Club”

When Sam told us about “Midnight Chess Club” on the show last week, we all fell in love. This one is sweet and mysterious.

It just makes you want someone to invite you over for red wine and a game of chess. I don’t know how to play, but a song like this makes me want to learn.

Chess by candlelight, anyone? Collective swoon from all of us for this one, Sam. Well done!

2. CAROLINE COTTER – “The Answer” (album)

Eva Cassidy, Sarah McLachlan, Indigo Girls, Carole King…Caroline Cotter.

Y’all – this album is swoon-worthy! From start to finish, this album is truly a love letter to peace, love, and happy vibes.

I’m officially putting Caroline on my “ones to watch” list. There’s a quality to her voice and writing that puts her in a category with some of my favorites, and I’m excited for y’all to hear this one.

3. CONNER SMITH – “Fall Down”

Fall might smell like chili on the stove, but it sounds like Conner Smith “Fall Down.”

This is back roads, windows down, crisp fall air, and the perfect soundtrack to switch our playlists from pool day favorites to campfire sing-a-longs.

It’s already been added to our That Nashville Girl FALL playlist – go check it out!

4. KALSEY KULYK – “Your Side of the Bar”

If you like Lainey Wilson, Meghan Patrick, and Carter Faith, you will love Kalsey Kulyk.

This is a perfect “oh I know I shouldn’t” country song.

Warning – you won’t be able to listen to this one without thinking of that one love interest you should leave alone.

5. CARLISLE WRIGHT – “Born In A Dive Bar”

Our little country cutie Carlisle Wright is back on the list this week with another one that makes you want to put your boots on and find someone to spin you around a sawdust dance floor.

This might be the perfect song for a honky tonk Saturday night!

October is here, which means it is officially time for music that feels like crisp air, candlelight, red wine and a Saturday night at your favorite honky tonk.

Which one are you playing first?
Let me know over on Instagram or Facebook—and don’t forget to send me the new releases you think deserve a spot on next week’s list.
Happy New Music Friday, y’all!