THE DOOBIE BROTHERS

"World Gone Crazy" (HOR Records; 2010)

Reviewed by Snidermann

The Doobie Brothers' "World Gone Crazy" is a quality rock'n'roll release and it shows some of the magic that made them one of the most popular bands of the 1970s. This is high quality musical entertainment, admittedly on the lighter side, but still it has all the trademarks that made the Doobie Brothers famous.

Founding members Tom Johnston and Pat Simmons, with John McFee and Michael Hossack, round out the members of this recording and they shine from the first cut to the last. There is a cut called "Don’t Say Goodbye" that features the unique vocals of Michael McDonald, who was with the band from 1977 to 1979. It's a highlight.

This is the 23rd recording from this iconic band. Some of the recordings here are live and/or greatest hits, but this is still an awesome collection.

As I said above, "World Gone Crazy" may not be hard rock, but it's still good solid rock music. In my opinion, it is a great thing to have new Doobie Brothers music out there in the universe.

For more information, please check out http://www.doobiebros.com.

"Minute by Minute" (iWarner Off Roster; 1978 )

Reviewed by Snidermann

Back in the 70s, I was a hardcore Doobie Brothers fan. I remember listening to their live recording, "What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits" from 1974 over and over again and I was hooked. Then their 1976 Greatest Hits came out and wow! What a great fucking recording. Each and every song was a fricken work of art.

Then, for medical reasons (or artistic differences; hard to say, I have heard both), Tim Johnson (lead singer) left the band. I thought the band was done for. Then Michael McDonald joined the band as lead singer. I hated the idea; however you can't argue with the musical output. I listened to the wrong people in the early to mid 80s and I felt the band was in disarray but I could not have been more wrong.

I am reviewing "Minute By Minute" here. Not only it is it a kick-ass rock record, I learned later the move to add Michael in the band was by mutual consent. He put a spark into the band that is felt even today. I saw a documentary about the band and found out that when Michael came into the band (and left the band) was for the benefit of all parties involved.

Each and every track here is a finely crafted masterpiece and I have been spinning that bitch for the last week and I plan on doing more of the same in the near future. The release came out in 1978 and in 2024, 46 years later, Tim Johnson rejoined the band and they are currently touring. Simply put, Michael McDonald joining The Doobie Brothers was a great idea and all their music stands up to the back drop of time.

For more information, please check out http://www.doobiebros.com.

"Toulouse Street" (Rhino Records; 1972 )

Reviewed by Snidermann

The Doobie Brothers' 1972 release of "Toulouse Street" (their second recording) is simply one of the best rock releases I have listened to in quite some time. Everyone has heard of the Doobie Brothers. Well, this recording spawned such hits as "Listen To The Music," "Rocking Down The Highway" and "Jesus Is Just Alright With Me." Now with just those three recordings--some of the best ever in classic rock history--you would think that would be just about it.  But I have to say the deep cuts are alive, fresh, relevant and frankly as good as rock'n'roll ever gets. 

The 1972 line-up was Tiran Porter on bass/vocals, Pat Simmons on guitar/vocals, Tom Johnston on guitar/vocals, John (Little John) Hartman on drums/percussion and Michael Hossack on drums.  Everyone but the drummers sing with multiple harmonies and solid rock'n'roll music that keeps my foot a-stomping. 

Now you may notice they had dual drummers and that is one of the Doobies Brothers best kept secrets: two drummers, no waiting.

This music is fun and easy to listen to.  I have to say the rock music in the 70s is as tight as anything out their now.  The Doobie Brothers knew how to put together a solid recording and, after almost fifty years in the rock biz, they are still one of rock's greatest legends. Simply outstanding and timeless.

For more information, please check out http://www.doobiebros.com.  

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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