When you’re racking up the miles, you’ve got time to think.

That’s the best time to absorb these five road trip songs.

Digest them. Ponder and reflect. Most of all–enjoy.

You’ll be glad you did.

The Ghost of Tom Joad – Bruce Springsteen

Sure, it’s the Boss, but all stripped down and bare like a dust bowl cotton field.

I Want It So Bad – The Gourds

There’s a Zen message in this song somewhere.

Jackson Square – Mason Jennings

You’ll need to listen to this a few times to stop asking, “What just happened?”

I Am Goodbye – Bonnie Prince Billy

This hits the sweet spot between the infectious and cryptic.

Every Time – Sarah Harmer

Just try not to think of factory stacks along the interstate at night.

BONUS: Last Thoughts on Woody Guthrie – Bob Dylan

The lyric-smith himself offers up something to chew on besides stale circus peanuts 300 miles into your next road trip.