The Doobie Brothers - Walk This Road

Roads have many tales - both good and bad. The Doobie Brothers have been travelling many long roads for over 50 years.  In their earliest inception, they brought the highly spirited rhythms of their guitar-based rock everywhere, from frat parties to biker bars. After Tom Johnston was sidelined due to health issues and Michael McDonald became a member of the group,  they continued their journey with their trademark cool and hypnotic Southern California grooves. Like many Doobies’ albums over the years, Walk This Road features all key members contributing songs, including Patrick Simmons working alongside longtime session player and touring member of Bon Jovi, John Shanks, who co-wrote all of the songs and produced the album. The title track, featuring Mavis Staples,  is a blues-based rocker that tells you that you’re in for a good ride!  Other guests include Mick Fleetwood on the haunting “Lahaina”, a weighty ode to the part of Maui that devastated the Hawaiian island in 2023 and home to Fleetwood and Patrick Simmons. Another part of the world that seems to conjure up mystical and magical themes in their songwriting is New Orleans. 1972’s “Toulouse Street” was the beginning of their cool harmonies and signature sound that have consistently blended rock, R&B, country and even Cajun. New songs like ‘New Orleans’, ‘Angels And Mercy’ and ‘State Of Grace’ all reflect recurring themes, including recovery and enlightenment. A road well travelled. Be sure to give a listen when you hit the road this summer.

Gary James
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