One of the more underrated bands of all time has to be Northern California’s own The Doobie Brothers. Led by original members Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons, the band has gone through a lot of transformations over the years. One thing remains consistent, the harmonies they provide are still top notch. Along with longtime fellow guitarist John McFee, the band delivered a quality show at Artpark this past Tuesday night. The band started off with The Art Reynolds Singers cover that they made a hit in “Jesus Is Just Alright.” With bassist John Cowan and drummers Ed Toth and Tony Pia laying down the foundation, the band was able to keep that groove all night. With Simmons leading the charge with energizing playing and crowd interaction, the band was able to follow what was one of the best shows of the summer.
The Doobie Brothers came out with an underrated album titled “World Gone Crazy” in 2010. This was a very solid album. We were lucky to hear two (2) tracks from it, “A Brighter Day” and the title track “World Gone Crazy.” They fall into what the Doobies are about, again with their fantastic harmonies but their musicianship is spot on. Johnston, Simmons and McFee each take turns on solos throughout. They closed with possibly their biggest hit “Listen to the Music.”
This was the second official sell out for the year at Artpark. A beautiful night with beautiful music sure does equal sell out in my mind!
Set List:
Jesus Is Just Alright (The Art Reynolds Singers cover)
Rockin’ Down the Highway
Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me) (Holland-Dozier-Holland cover)
Depending on You
Clear as the Driven Snow
A Brighter Day
World Gone Crazy
Neal’s Fandango
Slack Key Soquel Rag
South City Midnight Lady
Eyes of Silver
Takin’ It to the Streets
Don’t Start Me Talkin’ (Sonny Boy Williamson cover)
Black Water
Long Train Runnin’
Encore:
China Grove
Road Angel
Listen to the Music
We would like to thank Maria Hays for her assistance in helping BackstageAxxess review the show.
