I mostly listen to communist talk radio (Pacifica network or Air America). But sometimes I listen to music, and I do it commuting through the big city. Never very loud and never with noise-cancelling earphones. Mostly the music doesn't have a noticable effect on my speed or awareness, but I've noted that Reggae will knock a few MPH off. And I stop halfway home to take a nap. I think it's the contact high.