Where else, but in America could a band that is named after a marijuana joint make a popular hit out of Jesus being all right for them? The quintessential rock band The Doobie Brothers is joyfully chronicled in this in depth commentary that takes them from their early country rock days in Santa Cruz (where ELSE?) to the superstar and rock Hall of Fame status of their present day.
Interviews with core musicians and associates like Tom Johnston, Pat Simmons (who served as a great songwriters), Michael McDonald as well as Ted Templeton and Bruce Cohn detail the transformation of an obscure local band into a creating team of anthem rockers who produced such classics as “China Grove,” “Long Train Runnin’” and “Rockin’ Down the Highway.” The white souled voice of Johnston was an underrated wonder, while the 3 part harmonies mixed with the drumlike guitar chords to create a unique sound that was irresistable. Who even bothers with melding voices together in this day of groaning confessors passing for singers? The change in musical directions from a guitar to piano based band once McDonald took over (with his own soulful singing) is an inspiring tale of a band rolling with the personal and musical punches. The most important and educational part of the disc is the details on how the band changed with and survived the times as members came and went, and with the addition of Michael McDonald, took the band in a fresh and new direction. Flexibility in a band, as in marriage, is always the key to longevity and success!
Eagle Vision DVD
www.eaglerockent.com