The Doobies' first album with Michael McDonald, who immediately turned the band in a more soulful direction. However, as long as the hits kept coming, I'm sure neither band nor record label minded much. Strong performances throughout, both vocally and instrumentally. The material has its up and downs which is to be expected during a transition period. It's no Minute By Minute, but you can hear the band was headed in that direction.
Press of the time:
- Rolling Stone: "this is, melodically, the Doobies' best record"
- Record World: "jazz-tinged rock with carefully blended vocals"
- Billboard: "Over-all, an easier sound than previous LPs"
- Robert Christgau (C+): "You can lead a Doobie to the recording studio, but you can't make him think."
Album chart peaks:
- US Billboard Top 200: #8
- CashBox: #9
Tracks: Of course, the McDonald-penned singles stand out (Takin' It To The Streets and It Keeps You Runnin'), that's why they were the singles. Also good are Wheels Of Fortune, Rio, and Turn it Loose. The weaker tunes are Losin' End and For Someone Special.
Personal Memory Associated with this CD: A relatively recent impulse buy out of the bargain bin.
Previously revisited for the blog:
The Very Best Of (2007)
No comments:
Post a Comment