By Mario Tarradell

The Dallas Morning News

(MCT)

Ah, cooler weather. Soon, leaves will change color and take on a rich terra cotta hue. Then, almost in no time, the Christmas season will be upon us. What does all this mean?

It means big CD releases. The major labels always deliver new music and greatest-hits compilations by lucrative names when fall arrives. So, with that in mind, let’s look at what’s on the horizon. Perhaps the most anticipated upcoming disc is the sophomore effort by country singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.

Her second studio album, “Fearless,” which lands in stores Nov. 11, will prove whether the 3 million-selling, pop-culture success of her self-titled debut was a fluke or the beginning of a truly artistic career.

She’s still young — she’ll be 19 in December — but two years of touring should have given her broader insight.

Other titles sure to cause a stir are collections from rapper Kanye West, “808’s & Heartbreak” (tentatively scheduled for Nov. 18); country superstar Kenny Chesney, “Lucky Old Sun” (Oct. 14); “American Idol” winner David Cook, still untitled (Nov. 18); “Idol” runner-up David Archuleta, self-titled (Nov. 11); rockers Hinder, “Take It to the Limit” (Nov. 4); and Nickelback, “Dark Horse” (Nov. 18).

But the most exciting new release for this critic is Patti Labelle’s “Back to Now,” which lands at retail Oct. 21.

The reunion of LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash — the trio’s first studio album in 32 years — is a signature mix of R&B, funk, rock, jazz and soulful balladry.

It boasts production from Lenny Kravitz and the classic team of Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff.

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POP

Tuesday:

Sarah McLachlan, “Closer: The Best of Sarah McLachlan” (Arista) — An array of hits and classic cuts chosen by the singer-songwriter, and two newly recorded tracks.