There’s nothing quite like it. You’re on the road with your best buds, you luckily received those two or three days off of work that you requested, the sun is shining and you’re feeling good. As you’re coasting down that limitless highway filled with all sorts of epic road trip potential, it’s crucial that you are accompanied by some music to compliment the mood. When compiling a set of songs to put on a playlist for the trip, consider these five tunes that will exponentially brighten the mood of you, your friends, and the car ride as a whole.
1. "Sweet Disposition" by The Temper Trap
This song is one of my all time favorites. I first heard this song in the movie “500 Days of Summer” starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel, and I have loved it ever since. It is soothing without being slow, and powerful without being aggressive. It wakes you up and calms you down. It is perfect for those moments in a car ride when talking isn’t really necessary, and it breeds thoughts of reflection and relaxation.
2. "Sister" by The Black Keys
This groovy track is full of character, which is why it is an obvious addition to any road trip soundtrack. The steady beat throughout the song and the overall funky rhythm makes for feel-good vibes all around. Not only is this song one of a kind, but also pretty much any song by this band belongs on the road. This group is daring, and their music is eccentric yet timeless.
3. "Belief" by John Mayer
Although you may hate the artist, there is no denying that this man is a genius. In John Mayer’s third studio album, Continuum, he produces a soundtrack full of love struck, feel-good music. In this particular song, the strong beats and romantic rhythm make for a smooth and easygoing track, perfect for a car ride.
4. "This Velvet Glove" by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Easily one of the Peppers’ most underrated songs, this is a must in every playlist. Beginning with an upbeat, relaxing strum of the guitar, this song slowly but surely escalates into an epic ballad regarding love, loss and regret. Whether you’re singing along or simply playing as background music, this is an essential part of every playlist.
5. "Dissolve Me" by alt-J
If you hadn’t heard this song, I advise you to stop reading and find a way to listen to it. One of alt-J’s hidden gems on their first studio album, An Awesome Wave, "Dissolve Me" is a song that completely involves the listener; it is enchanting and encapsulating in every form. It’s quirky percussion and soothing vocals are refreshing and enlightening, especially for a long car ride.
