There are certain bands that become more than just a musical act—they become a form of therapy. For me, the Doobie Brothers are one of those bands. Whether I’m feeling down or just need a musical pick-me-up, they never fail to lift my spirits. Their new album Walk This Road continues that tradition beautifully.
This is the first Doobie Brothers album in decades to feature the powerhouse lineup of Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald, Patrick Simmons, and John McFee—a reunion of voices and talents that helped define the band’s enduring legacy.
Produced and co-written by John Shanks, the album doesn’t simply echo past glories—it refines and reinvents them with a contemporary shine. Shanks clearly respects the Doobies’ legacy, and his guitar work and production style fit seamlessly into their musical universe.
Each track spotlights different members of the band, often in alternating roles across vocals, writing, and instrumentation. While not every member plays on every song, the cohesion is there in spirit and execution.
Side One Highlights
1. Walk This Road
Written by McDonald and Shanks, this is a classic Doobie Brothers shuffle infused with gospel soul courtesy of a stellar guest vocal by Mavis Staples. Slide guitar by John McFee elevates it into a joyous opener.
2. Angels and Mercy
Patrick Simmons leads this fast-paced rocker with bright acoustic riffs and soaring harmonies. One of my favourites—it has that signature uplifting Doobies chorus.
3. Call Me
A Tom Johnston & Shanks creation featuring brass-driven rhythm and feel-good summer vibes. It doesn’t list Simmons, which points to the rotating lineup dynamic per track.
4. Learn to Let Go
A Michael McDonald-led soft groove track that channels the emotional pull of I Want to Know What Love Is. Layered vocals and smooth arrangements make this an instant standout.
5. State of Grace
Written by Patrick Simmons, it’s an acoustic ballad drenched in warmth and humanity. Think layered harmonies and heart—the kind of song you feel more than hear.
Side Two Highlights
6. Here to Stay
Written by Johnston, this mid-paced pop-rock track has twin guitars and a nostalgic “lost in rock and roll heaven” feel. Pure classic Doobies.
7. That’s the Kind That Lasts
A swampy, funky McDonald-led track that channels Little Feat and The Allman Brothers. His vocals are absolutely on fire here.
8. New Orleans
Another Tom Johnston track that could’ve been a straight-ahead rock ‘n’ roll song—but the Doobies’ signature layered musicianship lifts it to another level.
9. Speed of Pain
A soft McDonald ballad that shows his masterful vocal control. Melancholic but hopeful—one of the more emotionally resonant songs on the album.
10. Lahaina
The final track, written by Patrick Simmons, features Mick Fleetwood, Jake Shimabukuro, and Henry Kapono. It evokes the acoustic, tropical textures of Stampede and Cheat the Hangman. Everyone plays on this one, ending the album on a truly collaborative and spiritual note.
Final Thoughts
Walk This Road is a triumph. It’s not a nostalgia trip—it’s a fresh, engaging, and expertly crafted record by artists who still have something important to say. Whether it’s McDonald’s impassioned vocals, Johnston’s guitar punch, or Simmons’ lyrical warmth, it all comes together thanks to John Shanks’ respectful production.
If you’re already a fan, you’ll absolutely love this album. If you’re new to the Doobie Brothers, it might just open the door to a lifetime of music that heals and uplifts.
And in these heavy times, we need bands like this more than ever.
Highly recommended – and yes, I’ve got the CD and vinyl version to prove it.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
