The Doobie Brothers at Tiny Desk: John Cowan and Michael McDonald Bring Timeless Groove Home
This Tiny Desk from The Doobie Brothers is just plain fun to watch. Everybody looks relaxed, smiling, and playing like they are right at home. It feels easy, and that is what makes it so good.
John Cowan is carrying the bottom end here. He sounds incredible. John switches between a Bluesman Vintage Jazz and P basses. Both have have that classic sweet, round tone that fills the whole room without ever stepping on anything. And man, his line on “Takin’ It to the Streets” is perfect. It is smooth, deep, and right in the pocket. You can tell he has been living inside that groove for a long time.
Michael McDonald still has that voice that just stops you for a second. When he and Cowan lock in, it is that classic Doobies sound that never gets old.
What makes this set special is how natural it feels. No fancy production, no big moves. Just great songs and great players doing what they do best.
If you have got a few minutes, throw this one on. The whole set is about 15 minutes long.
No Treble CEO Jody Miller is a Chicago-based bassist, guitarist, engineer, and producer best known for his bass gear demo videos and as the co-host of The Bass Nerds podcast.
OMG was McDonald strained or not? Some people just don’t have the common sense to retire before it gets embarrassing. His out of tune vocals made my eyes water. Unlistenable.