The Doors Review: A Dark, Theatrical Debut
9/10 — The Doors - The Doors (1967)
Pros
- Manzarek's organ
- 'Light My Fire' and 'The End'
- Morrison's charisma
Cons
- Pretentious in places
Recorded in just a few days in 1966, The Doors introduced Morrison’s baritone and Ray Manzarek’s swirling organ. It includes the hit ‘Light My Fire’.
What works
‘Break On Through’ is a brisk opener, ‘Light My Fire’ is a thrilling jam, and ‘The End’ is an 11-minute Oedipal epic. Robby Krieger’s guitar and Manzarek’s organ create a distinctive sound.
Where it falters
Some of Morrison’s lyrics are pretentious, and the Brecht-Weill cover ‘Alabama Song’ is odd.
Verdict
A dramatic, atmospheric debut with enduring power.
