I think it’s safe to assume that in terms of his 50th anniversary tour return to The Doobie Brothers earlier this decade, Michael McDonald is here to stay.

According to bandmates Patrick Simmons and Tom Johnston, a new album with McDonald (which would be the band’s first with him at the forefront in over 40 years) is just about in the can.

While most of the details are being secured, the yacht-rock legends are stoked about throwing in some gospel influence with a track called “Walk This Road,” supposedly featuring guest contributions from gospel legend Mavis Staples.

Blues guitar virtuoso Robert Cray opens at the ol’ Gary.

Tickets to see The Doobie Brothers play MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa on Thursday, July 11 are still available and start at $35.