Resonance of Twilight: Emo Western Songs Echoing at Summer’s End

You’re So Last SummerTaking Back Sunday

Taking Back Sunday – You’re So Last Summer

Renowned as a pinnacle of emo rock, this song vividly portrays the pain of heartbreak and the journey of self-growth.

It captures the turmoil following a broken relationship through vulnerable vocals and powerful guitars, resonating deeply with many listeners.

As a signature track by Taking Back Sunday, it was included on their debut album Tell All Your Friends, released in March 2002.

If you’re in a late-summer melancholy or carrying the sting of a breakup, this is a track that truly lets you savor that “emo” feeling—so give it a listen!

All Summer LongThe Beach Boys

All Summer Long (Remastered 2007)

The Beach Boys are known as a quintessential surf music band.

Since their debut in 1961, they’ve produced numerous surf music hits and gained worldwide popularity.

In Japan, they’re akin to a band like TUBE.

Their classic “All Summer Long,” a lead single from the 1964 album of the same name, is a track with upbeat lyrics that, while nostalgic about summer’s end, insist that summer isn’t over yet.

The Last Day of SummerThe Cure

The Cure – The Last Day of Summer

Led by Robert Smith, the greatest cult hero Britain has produced, The Cure are a rare band that, since their formation in 1978, have remained defiantly nonconformist while achieving worldwide commercial success—not only in their homeland but in the United States and beyond.

Their musical style has shifted with the times and defies simple summary, yet once you fall under their spell, their uncanny allure never lets you go.

The song in question, featured on their masterful 2000 album Bloodflowers, is a gem: lyrical acoustic guitar backing, a melancholic melody, Robert’s voice drifting like a daydream, and a faint waft of decadence together conjure a one-of-a-kind sonic world.

As a fan, I must also highlight that the track was composed by Robert’s longtime ally and the band’s stalwart bassist, Simon Gallup!

Summer RomanceThe Rolling Stones

Summer Romance (Remastered 2009)

The Rolling Stones are a world-famous rock band known to everyone.

As a song to listen to at the end of summer, I’d like to recommend “Summer Romance.” It’s a brisk, upbeat rock number that sings about a summer heartbreak.

However, it isn’t somber or gloomy; the lyrics feel somehow positive.

That’s why it’s perfect for those moments when “the end of summer feels lonely, but you want to keep your spirits up.” It also works well as a youthful song about summer set in a school, so I recommend it for that vibe too.

Out of TimeThe Weeknd

The Weeknd – Out of Time (Official Video)

Japanese city pop often gives the impression of having many songs themed around “summer,” and it’s easy to find tracks that perfectly suit resorts, blazing sunshine, and the seaside.

But there are also surprisingly many city pop classics you want to hear at the melancholic end of summer.

One such song is Tomoko Aran’s “Midnight Pretenders,” composed by Tetsuro Oda, which was sampled in The Weeknd’s 2022 hit “Out of Time.” Because of that, “Out of Time,” which boldly quotes the main riff that creates the mellow groove of “Midnight Pretenders,” also feels like a track well-suited to the end of summer.

There’s no doubt it would be the perfect soundtrack for a late-summer night drive as the midsummer heat begins to ease.

Including the lyrics—which could be read as the anguished cries of a protagonist who seems to realize his mistakes—the song, as its title suggests, conveys a sense of being “out of time,” a feeling of finality.

We’re Going To Be FriendsThe White Stripes

The White Stripes – We’re Going To Be Friends (Official Music Video)

The White Stripes are a rock duo from Detroit.

As a leading act of the garage rock revival that defined the 2000s, they gained worldwide popularity.

One of their signature works is “We’re Going To Be Friends.” It’s been used in commercials in Japan, so many people here may find it familiar.

Thanks to its very simple arrangement—just guitar and vocals—it has an overall delicate, airy feel.

Doesn’t it perfectly suit the bittersweet mood at summer’s end?

Beach Housedaydreamers

daydreamers – Beach House (Visualiser)

This song poignantly yet beautifully portrays the end of summer, the season of youth.

Released by daydreamers in May 2024, it delicately captures the complex emotions of lovers against the backdrop of a beach house.

Its dreamy melodies and striking lyrics resonate deeply with listeners.

As the band’s second single, it achieved a high position on the UK charts, gained popularity on social media, and struck a chord with young people.

It’s the perfect track for those who want to bask in summer memories or who are struggling with love.

Listen by the seaside, and it will surely become a special experience.