Citizen Cope – “The Clarence Greenwood Recordings”
As you start your journey on the open road, whether you drive solo or in posse, Citizen Cope’s beats, layered with the Detroit singers husky, soulful voice, will have your car vibing from the start.
The Roots – “Do You Want More?!!!??!”
The hip-hop group’s early release will give you a slice of summer this spring, with tracks “Lazy Afternoon” and “Mellow My Man” laying down a live festival-like buzz in the air. Roll down the windows for this album.
Radiohead – “The Bends”
As conversation tapers off a few hours into the drive, Radiohead will give you something to think about. But don’t worry, “The Bends” is filled with the British band’s most positive vibrations.
Wilco – “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot”
Nothing complements Thom Yorke’s crooning like Jeff Tweedy’s lighter lyricism. This album will get you both riled and introspective… a good soundtrack for enjoying the scenery while singing out loud.
Built to Spill – “You In Reverse”
Something new is always nice. As your eyes begin to droop and your back begins to ache, it’s time to concentrate on the road. Built to Spill’s most recent release mixes simple melodies with the complicated and beautiful guitar stylings of lead singer Doug Martsch. This will keep your mind muscles running when you’re just not quite ready to pull over and take a power nap.
The Smiths – “Best of The Smiths Vol. 1”
How can you create an album suggestion list without including a Smith’s record? “Best of The Smiths Vol. 1” will get heads bobbing and voices rumbling, even if your passengers haven’t yet been familiarized with the genius of this 1980s British rock band.
Ray LaMontagne – “Til the Sun Turns Black”
As the sun starts inching toward the horizon, this folk-blues singer will provide the most-appropriate, relaxing string of songs. He won’t put you to sleep, but he’ll put you in the mood for a stunning sunset.
Zero 7 – “The Garden”
When your headlights are the last glowing orb on the nighttime highway, Zero 7 will provide you with a catchy yet soothing set of downtempo tracks, laced with the sensual vocals of British gem Sia.
Blue Scholars – “Blue Scholars”
This hip-hop duo’s laid-back stylings will dispense a good-times aura as your car approaches the finish line. After a long night getting pumped, laying back and thinking hard, the drive will end with a return to excitement. Let the Blue Scholars take you there, especially if you’re headed North to their hometown, Seattle.
Your own mix of guilty pleasures
Sprinkle a little of this and that throughout your drive. Nothing hits home like a good song from the past, especially if you’re headed to a familiar place.
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