This happens to me, I get enough silence during the early part of the day, so I guess while driving, I need to listen to music or talk shows regardless of what moods I may be going through (I'm Bp-II) silence though is my choice when I am frazzled. The types of music I choose, varies, I like almost all types, and have noticed the relation of mood(s) and what I choose to listen to. . . it's great that there is so many kinds of music.
It hasn't happened lately, but I use to zone out if there was too much talking going on around me, almost as if I didn't understand what the person or people were saying, that is so strange, perhaps it is due to having too much on one's mind.
All and all, I think what you have mentioned, must happen to everyone, one time or another in their life.
My family is surprised that I haven't been playing any CD's lately. . . so am I.

Take care,
DE

Oops! I meant to "click" my reply to the original poster, oh well. . . it happens