Celebrating Keats Autumn: A Tribute to Simple Joys and New Sounds

As the warmth of summer fades and autumn sets in, it’s the perfect time to reflect on inspirational figures who have shaped our cultural landscape. Last year, Charli XCX made waves with her BRAT Summer, but this fall, I want to shine a light on a different icon: John Keats.

Keats: The Tragic Poet

John Keats, who tragically passed away at just 25, is often considered an honorary member of the infamous 27 Club. He succumbed to tuberculosis, a disease that seems to have made a resurgence in popular culture discussions. Keats is perhaps best known for his renowned poem “Ode on a Grecian Urn,” which captures a revelrous scene of ancient festivities, complete with flutes, wine, and a cow sacrifice. If that doesn’t embody a vibrant vibe, what does?

What’s more remarkable is that this poem came shortly after Keats faced harsh criticism for his lengthy epic, Endymion, which was dismissed by a reviewer as “driveling idiocy.” Instead of succumbing to despair, Keats rallied and produced some of his most celebrated works, crafting odes that celebrated the beauty of life’s simplest moments, defying his critics with sheer creativity.

Introducing Keats Autumn

In tribute to Keats and the joys he found in the ordinary, I propose we launch a new seasonal celebration: Keats Autumn. This season, let’s explore a fresh selection of music that captures the essence of inspiration and creativity. Below, you’ll find an eclectic mix of tunes ranging from psychedelic doom metal to blackened death metal—all offered at a name-your-price format.

Featured Albums and Releases

Telesterion – Epopteia (October 8, 2023)

“What men or gods are these? What maidens loth? […] What pipes and timbrels? What wild ecstasy?”

Telesterion’s debut album, Epopteia, transports listeners to an ancient realm with its atmospheric doom metal. The quintet’s unique sound evokes a hazy, ritualistic experience reminiscent of Keats’s Grecian Urn. With layered chants and mesmerizing guitars, this album captures the essence of what Keats referred to as a “cold pastoral.” Keep an ear out for this one as it releases soon!

Cosmophage – Sidereal Malignancy (October 4, 2024)

Shifting gears from poetry to the visceral, Cosmophage’s debut EP delivers raw, unfiltered death metal. This release is a relentless exploration of sound, embodying the primal instinct to kill and devour. The band’s commitment to maintaining the genre’s core elements makes this a must-listen for fans seeking a more traditional death metal experience.

Earthly Form – Crowned with Misery (November 15, 2024)

Hailing from Helsinki, Earthly Form’s blackened death metal draws inspiration from the dark corners of the genre. Their relentless percussion combined with haunting riffs creates an intense listening experience. The title track offers a poignant reflection on human suffering, making it a significant addition to your autumn playlist.

Midryasi’s Kult – Mountain Devil (March 7, 2025)

Caligari Records introduces us to Midryasi’s Kult, a band that fuses post-punk with heavy doom metal. Their debut demo, Mountain Devil, showcases sultry vocals and moody instrumentals, creating a fresh sound that honors the legacy of its influences while standing apart in modernity.

Lucerne Hammer – Demo (March 29, 2025)

This five-track demo from Lucerne Hammer comes highly recommended for its authentic black metal vibes. The sweeping melodic riffs and lo-fi production create an intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of basement shows and candlelit gatherings. It’s a fitting soundtrack for anyone seeking to connect with the underground scene.

Conclusion

As we embrace the cooler weather and the changing leaves, let’s celebrate the simple joys in life, much like John Keats did. With this new wave of music, we can find inspiration in the everyday and continue to explore the depths of creativity. So grab your headphones, pour yourself a drink, and let the sounds of Keats Autumn guide you through this reflective season.

FAQs

Who was John Keats?

John Keats was an English Romantic poet known for his vivid imagery and emotional depth. He passed away at a young age but left behind a rich legacy of poetry that continues to inspire.

What is Keats Autumn?

Keats Autumn is a proposed seasonal celebration that pays tribute to the simple joys in life, inspired by the works of John Keats. It includes exploring new music that reflects this theme.

What types of music can I expect in Keats Autumn?

You can expect a diverse selection of music ranging from psychedelic doom metal to blackened death metal, all aimed at celebrating creativity and inspiration.

Where can I find the featured albums?

The featured albums are available on various music platforms, and many are offered at a name-your-price format, allowing listeners to support the artists directly.