Nine essential albums by The Doors, along with one best-avoided release from their discography
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The Doors, an LA-based band that became the most talked-about group in America from 1967 until the untimely death of their frontman, Jim Morrison, in July 1971, left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Jim Morrison, a charismatic and enigmatic figure, was the driving force behind the band. His presence always galvanized The Doors, a group that blended a strange take on the blues, elements of Latin American beats, poetry, orchestration, shamanistic hallucinations, and a strain of dark Brechtian pop.
Their debut album, released in 1967, is considered a consciousness-expanding masterpiece. It set the tone for their subsequent releases, which included six studio albums and a double live album, mostly taken from their comeback tour.
One of their most celebrated albums, "Morrison Hotel" (1970), features string and brass arrangements by Paul Harris. The opening track, "Roadhouse Blues", sets the tone for the album, while songs like "Peace Frog" and "Waiting For The Sun" showcase the band's unique sound. "Peace Frog" is powered by Krieger's wah-wah guitar, and "Waiting For The Sun" resembles a 16-wheeler in its intensity.
Other standout tracks on the album include "Maggie M'Gill", a shanty, and "Land Ho!", a playful track by Morrison. The title track of the album, "Strange Days", features Jim Morrison playing Moog synthesizer.
Morrison's increasingly erratic behaviour, often alcohol-induced, enhanced his legend but also caused tension within the band. A notable incident occurred at a concert in Miami on March 1, 1969, where Morrison allegedly exposed himself, leading to a warrant for his arrest on charges of gross public indecency.
In 1978, Paul Rothchild spoke about the posthumous album "An American Prayer", saying it was a sincere attempt to honour Jim Morrison by setting his poetry to music, aiming to capture the spirit of Morrison's artistry authentically. The album, a posthumous release of Morrison's poetry from Elektra sessions in 1969 and 1970, remains a testament to his creativity and influence.
Morrison's death in Paris in July 1971 was shrouded in mystery, adding to his mystique. However, his legacy lives on in the music he created with The Doors. The band's final show was on December 12, 1970, at the Warehouse in New Orleans, marking the end of an era but the beginning of a lasting legacy.
In 2003, "Boot Yer Butt: The Doors Bootlegs" was released, a four-disc collection of live rarities, including four tracks from their penultimate show. For fans of The Doors, it serves as a reminder of the power and energy of their live performances.
In conclusion, The Doors, led by the enigmatic Jim Morrison, created music that was both innovative and influential. Their music continues to resonate with audiences today, a testament to their enduring legacy.
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