Toulouse Street

Performer: The Doobie Brothers
Distributor: E1 Distribution (USA)

Notes: The Doobie Brothers shuffled personnel a bit after their debut album, changing bass players and adding a second drummer. For whatever reason, this sophomore effort was the one that kicked off their long streak as one of the most popular bands in America. The basic sound of TOULOUSE STREET isn't really all that different from the Doobies' previous effort. There's a similar mix of acoustic guitars, gospel harmonies, and overall post-hippie mellowness. This time out, however, the songs have hooks as well as grooves. TOULOUSE STREET produced the chugging and eminently infectious "Listen to the Music," the Doobies' breakthrough hit single. Other highpoints include the anthemic "Rockin' Down the Highway," which quickly became a radio staple; a considerably juiced-up version of the Byrds' "Jesus is Just Alright;" the lovely, CSNY-inspired title song; and a nice cover--with horns--of Sonny Boy Williamson's blues classic "Don't Start Me Talkin'." Producer Ted Templeman gave the band a cleaner, harder-edged sound, and helped bring the band's unique mix of roots rock, gospel, country, jazz, bluegrass, R&B, swamp boogie, and pop hooks into perfect focus.

One of the most commercially successful rock/pop bands of the 1970s, the Doobies evolved from a roots-influenced, post-hippie West Coast rock outfit with dazzling guitar work into a pop-conscious, keyboard-dominated ensemble tinged with R&B and fronted by the distinctive, soulful vocals of Michael McDonald. Though they found their greatest chart success with McDonald, the band's early recordings with singer Tom Johnston produced some impressive hits as well ("Long Train Running," "Without Love," "Black Water").

Shipping or Dimension weight in pounds: 0.2

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