New Music: The Church, Paul Rodgers, Genya Ravan, The Doors

New releases from acclaimed Australia legends The Church, singer-songwriter great Paul Rodgers, pioneering songstress Genya Ravan and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Doors are worth adding to your music library.

Artist: The Church
Title: The Hypnogogue (Deluxe) edition (Communicating Vessel)
You might like if you enjoy: The Cure, Interpol, Tame Impala
Tell me more: While The Hypnogogue is the 26th album release from The Church, it marks the band's first-ever concept album (a lyrically and sonically detailed dystopian tale set in 2054). The newly-issued deluxe edition of the album expands the initial February 2023 standard version of the LP with six additional tracks. The Hypnogogue (Deluxe) is truly an ambitious and stellar disc that finds singer-songwriter/bassist Steve Kilbey and company using their unique blend of modern, alternative, Neo-psychedelic and progressive rock styles to immerse the listener in the sumptuous journey across 19 tracks. They hypnotic rocker "C'est La Vie," shimmering "I Think I Knew," reflective title track, melodic "Aerodome" and luxurious "Realm of Minor Angels" (the latter is among the previously-unissued cuts on the expanded release) are among the immediately captivating tracks on the deluxe edition. More experimental tracks (notably "Succulent," "Antartica," "Second Bridge" and "A Strange Past") reward discerning listeners on repeated listens. The band's fall U.S. tour begins on Sept 28 in Seattle and includes upcoming dates in Southern California, Arizona and New Mexico; concertgoers who come out to the shows can also pick up a The Hypnogogue companion audio CD called Eros Zeta and the Perfumed Guitars which features 15 brand new songs and will only be available at the merch table on the band's U.S. fall tour. Information: thechurchband.net. 

Artist: Paul Rodgers
Title: Midnight Rose (Sun Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Bad Company, The Firm, Paul Rodgers, Queen + Paul Rodgers
Tell me more: One of rock's all-time great talents, Paul Rodgers (Free, Bad Company, The Firm, Queen + Paul Rodgers) is back with Midnight Rose. The British-Canadian singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist's first new solo album since 1999's Electric, the eight-track Midnight Rose showcases that Rodgers voice remains a top-flight wonder at age 73. Rodgers' signature lead vocals shine on the blues-rock opener "Coming Home," the breezy folk-swept title track, Bad Company-styled rockers "Living It Up" and "Take Love," dazzling Renaissance mining "Dance In The Sun," affecting "Highway Robber" and ambitious closer "Melting," the latter casting a strong light on Rodgers' nuanced and artful touch as the song burgeons from a bluesy ballad into a bona fide rocker. Available on both vinyl and audio CD, Midnight Rose was produced by Cynthia Rodgers and Bob Rock; the album was recorded at Roper Recording and The Warehouse in British Columbia. Information: sunrecords.com. 

Artist: Genya Ravan
Titles: "Urban Desire" and "...And I Mean It!" (BFD/The Orchard)
You might like if you enjoy: Joan Jett, Patti Smith, Lou Reed, Sass Jordan

Tell me more: Groundbreaking rock songstress Genya Ravan's incredible legacy is celebrated via two terrific reissues available now via Bob Frank Distribution (BFD). Armed with a powerful soprano, Ravan's self-produced solo albums Urban Desire (1978) and its follow-up ...And I Mean It (1979) showcase her mighty vocals and shining blues-harp playing. The reissues also serve as the perfect introduction to an artist who deserves more recognition. Born Genyusha Zelkowitz in Poland in 1940, Ravan survived the Holocaust. In America, she forged a path in the male-dominated music industry — including forming the first all-woman rock band (Goldie & The Gingerbreads) in 1963 and subsequently one of the first rock 'n' roll horn bands (Ten Wheel Drive) in 1969.  Urban Desire opens with the jubilant rocker "Jerry's Pigeons," with subsequent standouts on the album including the rollicking blues rock nugget "The Knight Ain't Long Enough," acoustic foray "Do It Just For Me," scorching take on The Supremes' "Back In My Arms Again" and rousing "Aye Co'lorado," the latter a wonderful duet with Lou Reed. 

...And I Mean It features an equally strong track listing, which includes gems like the heavy blues sortie "Pedal To The Metal," punkish "It's Me," infectious New Wave-tinged "Love Isn't Love," genre-smashing rocker "I'm Wired, Wired, Wired" and her poignant duet with Ian Hunter ("Junkman"). Both albums are available on audio CD and via vinyl. Information: genyaravan.com. 

Artist: The Doors
Title: Live at the Matrix, 1967 (Rhino)
You might like if you enjoy: The Doors, Robby Krieger, classic rock
Tell me more: Anytime fans get treated to a new release featuring The Doors there is reason for celebration. The release of the Live at the Matrix, 1967 is truly one of the great audio titles of 2023; the limited edition 3CD box set features the complete and original recordings captured during the band's five-night engagement in March 1967 at the small San Francisco nightclub known as The Matrix. The recordings featured on Live at the Matrix, 1967 were taken from the first-generation 7-inch reels that captured singer Jim Morrison, guitarist Robby Krieger, keyboardist Ray Manzarek and drummer John Densmore just prior to their explosive emergence as one of the most successful and important rock bands of the late 1960s. Standout performances abound across the sets recorded by Peter Abram between March 7-11, 1967 that are featured on the box set. The band's first set on March 7, 1967 features a freewheeling and dynamic version of "Back Door Man," a previously unreleased take on the psychedelic rocker "My Eyes Have Seen You," a mesmerizing run through the Miles Davis-penned instrumental "All Blues" and potent 12-minute take on the classic "When The Music's Over." There are so many incredible moments to be heard across the three discs; a blues-drenched take on Willie Dixon's "Close To You," fiery version of the John Lee Hooker classic "Crawling King Snake" enhanced by Krieger's signature guitar work, the wistful "I Can't See Your Face In My Mind," Baroque pop-meets-blues ballad "The Crystal Ship," several powerful versions of "Break On Through (To The Other Side)" and a otherworldly performance of "Light My Fire" are just a few of the stellar cuts to be heard. Detailed liner notes written by Joel Selvin provide a comprehensive look at the inspired performances and what led The Doors to journey to San Francisco to appear at The Matrix just prior to their impending stardom. Production of the audio CD version is limited to only 21,000 copies worldwide. Information: thedoors.com. 

Robert Kinsler

Year-End Delights: 'Wonder Woman 1984' soundtrack, 'Morrison Hotel' reissue, 'Bobby Bare Sings Shel Silverstein,' Omnivore Recordings' doo-wop sets

Before 2020 disappears in the past, be sure to check out these essential late-year titles available now. 

Artist: Hans Zimmer

Titles: Wonder Woman 1984 — Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (WaterTower Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Hans Zimmer, John Williams

Tell me more: Anyone who loves the memorable music in the new film "Wonder Woman 1984" will obviously love the 18-track motion picture soundtrack featuring famed Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer's stellar score. The music is dramatic, arresting and — often — deeply affecting. The track "Games" begins with the drive of a rock track before magically venturing into a stirring Neo-classical detour. "1984" has the joyful and triumphant feel that recalls some of composer John William's music heard in "Superman" (released in 1978) in its first section; the decidedly dark and edgy second half brings chills and tension that work even apart from hearing it in the context of the Patty Jenkins-directed film (which this writer enjoyed upon its Christmas Day release). Other highlights on this soundtrack include the poignant "Wish We Had More Time," ambitious "Cheetah," soaring "Fireworks," propulsive electronica-meets-orchestral sortie "Open Road" and tender "Without Armor." The gorgeous "Already Gone" and "Truth" as well as the set-ending bonus track "Lost and Found" are among the other standouts on this brilliant soundtrack. Information: WaterTowerMusic.com.

Artist: The Doors

Titles: Morrison Hotel: 50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (Elektra / Rhino)

You might like if you enjoy: The Doors, classic rock 

Tell me more: Back in February 1970, The Doors released what was to be their second-to-last studio album featuring singer Jim Morrison. Now the band's fifth album — Morrison Hotel — is available via a terrific 50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition that includes the original album newly remastered by The Doors' longtime engineer and mixer Bruce Botnick, plus a bonus disc of unreleased studio outtakes along with the original album on 180-gram virgin vinyl. There are 19 previously-unreleased studio outtakes providing more than an hour of material that will be new to followers of the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame quartet (Morrison, guitarist Robby Krieger, keyboardist Ray Manzarek and drummer John Densmore). Among the must-hear tracks on the reissue are early versions of "Peace Frog" and "Blue Sunday" along with the bona fide rarity "I Will Never Be Untrue." Get this limited edition title while you can. Information: TheDoors.com.

Artist: Bobby Bare

Title: Bobby Bare Sings Shel Silverstein, Plus (Bear Family Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Bobby Bare, Kris Kristofferson, Shel Silverstein  

Tell me more: Packed with eight audio CD discs and a wealth of related riches, Bobby Bare Sings Shel Silverstein, Plus features 137 tracks, including 25 previously-unreleased recordings and more than 100 Silverstein-penned songs recorded by Country Music Hall of Famer Bobby Bare from 1972 to 1983. Fans of traditional country music and top-tier songwriting will love every minute of this expansive release including the moving "Lullabys, Legends and Lies," timeless "Hard Time Hungrys," sobering "The Unemployment Line," lovely "February Snow" and affecting "Childhood Hero" and "Yard Full of Rusty Cars." In addition to all the great songs, an accompanying 128-page hardcover book features a new interview with Bare (now 85) by Hank Davis, an overview of the late Silverstein's life and work by Dave Samuelson along with lyrics to the 137 songs in the collection. Information: bobbybare.com.

Artists: Adam Wade, the Crests, the Duprees, the Rivieras

Titles: Five collections featuring recordings originally released by Coed Records in the '50s and '60s (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Doo-wop music released via the Coed Records label

Tell me more: Five outstanding collections revisiting vocal and doo-wop artists featured on the influential New York-based Coed Records label in the late '50s and '60s have been released via Omnivore Recordings. Adam Wade is celebrated via his 1960 debut album And Then Came Adam and its 1961 follow-up Adam and Evening compiled on a single disc — Wade's wonderful voice and style draws favorable comparisons with a young Johnny Mathis. Highlights include the lush "Tenderly," uptempo "Just In Time," his first hit "Ruby" and the sweeping "Gloria's Theme" (from the Elizabeth Taylor-starring film soundtrack "Butterfield 8"). Remastered by Grammy-winning engineer Michael Graves, the disc sounds amazing.

The Best of the Crests featuring Johnny Mastro: 16 Fabulous Hits showcases the talents of an integrated '50s vocal group best known for their huge doo-wop hit "16 Candles." That track is one of many smooth selections on the collection. Other standouts include the sweet "Six Nights a Week," heartfelt ballad "Gee (But I'd Give The World)," romance-minded "I Thank the Moon" and uptempo "Trouble In Paradise."  

The other releases include The Duprees: The Coed Singles, The Duprees: The Coed Albums: You Belong To Me/Have You Heard and The Rivieras: The Coed Singles. These releases feature stellar highlights from top-tier doo-wop artists (doo-wop is a genre of rhythm and blues centered around vocal harmonies and a minimum of instrumentation that was extremely popular in the '50s and '60s). The Duprees' hit single "You Belong to Me," "My Own True Love" (a song also known as Tara's Theme from "Gone With The Wind") and "Take Me As I Am" are among the gems that showcase their winning sound; The Rivieras: The Coed Singles gathers together all of that quartet's singles (including the warm ballad "Count Every Star" and evocative remake of "Moonlight Serenade") along with two bonus tracks ("My Silent Love," "Serenade In Blue").  

All five titles — which each include detailed liner notes — are available on audio CD and via digital. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

Walter Trout and Provogue Records announce release of 'Ordinary Madness' on Aug. 28, 2020

Very exciting news that blues singer-songwriter/guitar great Walter Trout will be returning with a new studio album this summer. One of the last concerts I caught before the COVID-19 shutdown was Trout tearing it up at The Coach House in February. (Read my review of that show here)...Robert Kinsler

WALTER TROUT AND PROVOGUE RECORDS ANNOUNCE RELEASE OF NEW STUDIO ALBUM 

ORDINARY MADNESS ON AUGUST 28, 2020

 

VIEW “Wanna Dance” Lyric Video Here: https://youtu.be/Pyz90L1kOUg

Pre-Order Here: http://smarturl.it/walter-trout

 

Los Angeles, CA --- Walter Trout and Provogue Records / Mascot Label Group have announced the global release of a new studio album titled Ordinary Madness on August 28.  The lyric video for a lead track titled “Wanna Dance” can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Pyz90L1kOUg. The pre-order goes live today, featuring configurations that include 2LP+MP3, CD, Limited CD Box, and MFiT Digital, all of which are available here:  http://smarturl.it/walter-trout.

 

For Walter Trout, there is no ‘us’ and ‘them’. Across his five-decade career, the great U.S. bluesman’ s music has always been a lifeline and call-to-arms, reminding listeners they are not alone. Now, as the world seeks solace from a tragedy that has touched us all, he comes armed with a boundary-exploring new studio album and eleven searingly honest songs that bring his fans even closer. “There’s a lot of extraordinary madness going on right now,” considers Trout, of the COVID-19 crisis. “This album started because I was dealing with the flaws and weakness inside me. But it ended up being about everyone.” 

 

Ordinary Madness was completed mere days before the U.S. shutdown, its cathartic songcraft and themes of shared troubles couldn’t chime better with a period in which our souls and spirits are under fire from tumultuous global events. 

 

Walter Trout at The Coach House on Feb.
28, 2020. Photo: Bob Steshetz

Admirably open about his troubled youth, and his own ongoing struggles with mental health, the bluesman had spent recent tours soothing himself by scribbling down his thoughts and feelings. It was only later he realized he’d just written the most honest lyric-sheet of his career – and felt he had an opportunity to let fans share and identify with him. “Everybody is dealing with something,” he says. “And I’m no different from anybody else. Ordinary Madness doesn’t mean you’re gonna end up in a mental institution. It’s just being human. It’s common humanity.”

 

Trout’s formative blues influences are well-documented, spanning from Paul Butterfield’s 1965 self-titled debut alongside Mike Bloomfield to John Mayall’s seminal 1966 ‘Beano’ LP with Eric Clapton. But as he cut his teeth in New Jersey, the young guitarist was also drawn to the maverick songwriters, taking in The Beatles, Dylan and Neil Young’s Crazy Horse. At every step of his career – moving to California in ’74 to back up giants like John Lee Hooker, joining Canned Heat and Mayall’s Bluesbreakers in the ’80s, then flying solo in 1989 – the stockpile of songs kept growing. 

 

This time around, Trout is doing things a little differently. Led in by an electronic intro created by eldest son Jon Trout, the song sets off on a hypnotic groove with a gloriously languid guitar break that’s anything but autopilot blues. “I’ve broken the pinkie on my left hand three times in the past year,” remembers Trout, “so the guitar playing on this album took a little work, and there’s some anger and frustration in some of the solos. I really like that solo on the title track. It took two or three re-takes. But I think I nailed it.”

 

From that jump-off, a career-best album spilled out, as Trout convened his band of Michael Leasure (drums), Johnny Griparic (bass) and Teddy ‘Zig Zag’ Andreadis (keys) – along with long-time producer Eric Corne, plus special guests Skip Edwards, Drake ‘Munkihaid’ Shining and Anthony Grisham. The backdrop, once again, was the private LA studio of Doors legend Robby Krieger.  “The whole place is full of vintage gear, and it’s all there for you, whatever you want. The keyboard that Ray Manzarek used in The Doors – it’s just fucking sitting there. I remember, on the rhythm track for OK Boomer, Michael Dumas, who runs the studio, comes walking in and says: ‘Here’s the SG that Robby used in The Doors – wanna try this?’ Then, for the rhythm guitar on Heartland, he says: ‘Here’s one of James Burton’s Paisley Telecasters...’”

 

Walter Trout at The Coach House on Feb. 28, 2020.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Musically, Trout’s antennae are up, as he pushes the envelope on the psychedelic layered vocal harmonies of “The Sun Is Going Down,” a song about dealing with ageing. Trout shares, “Lyrically, it’s about running out of time. You gotta look at death, deal with it, accept it. That’s a condition of being alive.”  The blissed-out anthemics of “Up Above My Sky,” nods to peak-period Pink Floyd and Trout worked with the U.S. Blues singer Teeny Tucker on the bereft “All Out Of Tears” – a tribute to her late son. On the haunting “Heaven In Your Eyes,” Walter was stunned by Marie Trout’s lyrics about the desperation of trying to find ways to reach the person you love but being unable to find the words. 

 

“As the lyric says in ‘Up Above My Sky,’ he reflects, “sometimes you have to see through the darkness to find the light. I can’t wait get back out there again, meet the people at shows, hug them and pose for a photo. And I’m really looking forward to playing these songs live. Because I think this album speaks to these times…”

 

Touring plans will be announced in the coming weeks as The World returns to some level of normalcy enabling all artists to return to staging appearances.

 

 

ABOUT WALTER TROUT

Walter Trout has been nothing short of prolific over the course of his seven decades on this Earth.  He’s released 27 solo albums over a career that has spanned the globe, and delivered notoriety as one of the great purveyors of the Blues.  Trout's history is equal parts thriller, romance, suspense and horror. There are musical fireworks, critical acclaim and fists-aloft triumph, offset by wilderness years, brushes with the jaws of narcotic oblivion, and the survival of an organ transplant few come back from.  From 1973, when he left his New Jersey home headed to Los Angeles, he has followed a road that afforded him an opportunity to just play, sharing the stage as a sideman with Jesse Ed Davis, Big Mama Thornton, Lowell Fulson, Joe Tex, and of course the great John Mayall (following a three year tenure in Canned Heat).  

 

When Trout walked away from the Bluesbreakers, he embarked on a solo career that has yielded a catalogue that has established a deep legacy in the world of Blues, Americana, and the realm of revered singer-songwriters. While many would slow down as they approach their 70^th birthday, Trout continues to deliver inspired recordings, performances, and a voice that articulates relevant ideology and insights in to The World that inspires his deep perspective. There’s no autopilot emanating from Walter Trout, but a true a sense of growing momentum, elements of surprise, and repertoire that continues to be more compelling with each new creation. 

 

www.waltertrout.com

www.facebook.com/waltertroutband

www.twitter.com/waltertrout

www.mascotlabelgroup.com

Masters Shine on New Sets

A plethora of outstanding titles featuring classic and emerging artists have been released recently, including a highly-anticipated release from The Doors, a collection celebrating singer-pianist Nina Simone, a tribute to power pop favorite Matthew Sweet and several strong movie soundtracks.

Artist: The Doors
Title: The Doors: Live At The Isle Of Wight 1970 (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
You might like if you enjoy: The Doors
Tell me more: The Doors remain one of rock's most groundbreaking and original bands of any era. So anytime new music emerges from The Doors' short but prolific career there is a bona fide reason to celebrate. The last known unseen performance of The Doors in existence has been released, and it truly offers up an astounding experience for discerning fans of the Los Angeles-spawned quartet. The Doors: Live At The Isle Of Wight 1970 features the group coming out on stage at 2 a.m. on Aug. 30, 1970 in a performance that featured an understandably-reserved Jim Morrison (the singer had been the focus of a well-publicized obscenity trial in Miami). But while Morrison spends most of the set positioned close to his microphone and rarely even opens his eyes, the concert itself is bolstered by the power of the band's songs, strength of the musicianship and Morrison's emotive vocals. Highlights include a driving "Break On Through (To The Other Side)" and a 14-minute take on "Light My Fire." In addition to the concert film, there is a bonus featurette titled "This Is The End" anchored by 17 minutes of interviews conducted by the film's original director (Academy Award-winner Murray Lerner) with guitarist Robby Krieger, drummer John Densmore and original Doors manager Bill Siddons. There is additional archival interview footage with the late keyboardist Ray Manzarek from 2002. The Doors: Live At The Isle Of Wight 1970 is available on Blu-ray+CD (the version reviewed here), as well as on DVD+CD and via Digital Video. Information: TheDoors.com.

Artist: Nina Simone
Title: Mood Indigo: The Complete Bethlehem Singles (BMG/Bethlehem)
You might like if you enjoy: Nina Simone
Tell me more: Remastered in 2017 and released earlier this month, the 14 tracks on Mood Indigo: The Complete Bethlehem Singles celebrate the 60th anniversary of Nina Simone entering Manhattan's Beltone Studios to record her debut album Little Girl Blue for Bethlehem Records. Only 25 at the time, the North Carolina native was already a talented singer blessed with a rich voice and virtuoso skills at the keyboard to match. At the session she recorded what would be her first hit "Porgy (I Loves You, Porgy)" and a wide range of other material showcasing her already-keen musical talents. Take the buoyant "Love Me or Leave Me," where her contralto soprano and baroque-meets-jazz piano skills are blended artfully. She could also deliver moving and hushed ballads, as evidenced by her version of Rodgers & Hart's "Little Girl Blue" and an ambitious instrumental interpretation of the 1945 Rodgers and Hammerstein show tune "You'll Never Walk Alone." On the rousing jazz-meets-blues instrumental "African Mailman," she pounds on the keys and conjures up a storm accompanied by bassist Jimmy Bond and drummer Al "Tootie" Heath. The newly-issued collection comes just in time to celebrate Simone's upcoming induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 14. Sadly, Simone died at the age of 70 in April 2003. Information: bmg.com.

Artists: The Hangabouts, Michael Carpenter, Popdudes, more
Title: Altered Sweet (Futureman Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Matthew Sweet, Lannie Flowers, Lisa Mychols
Tell me more: Available as a 2-disc audio CD set or as a digital album, Altered Sweet is a wonderful tribute to singer-songwriter-guitar great Matthew Sweet. The shimmering, well-crafted and melodic songcraft associated with Matthew Sweet is on display everywhere here. Lisa Mychols kicks things off with an ace take on "Looking at the Sun" and the power of the selections rarely falters. Standouts on the first half of the disc include Greg Pope's creative "Not When I Need It," Chris Richards & the Subtractions' tender "Someone to Pull the Trigger," simple friend's delightful baroque pop-mining "Sick of Myself," Michael Simmons' faithful take on "Heaven and Earth" and The Hangabouts' expert reworking of "When I Feel Again." The latter half of the rewarding 27-track collection includes a rocking take on Sweet's beloved 1991 hit "Girlfriend" courtesy of Michael Carpenter, Nick Piunti's contagious "Behind The Smile," and Arvidson & Butterflies' dashing "Byrdsong." Things wrap up with the Popdudes' affecting Americana-tinged ballad "I Almost Forgot." Information: https://futuremanrecords.bandcamp.com/

Composer: Ludwig Göransson
Title: Black Panther (Original Score) (Hollywood Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Hans Zimmer
Tell me more: Yours truly is anxious to see the new Disney-Marvel superhero film "Black Panther," not only because of the parade of strong reviews but because I've been thoroughly enjoying Swedish composer Ludwig Göransson's score for the box office smash. Some of the selections are weighted in favor of traditional African percussion and vocal styles (the exhilarating "Wakanda Origins," luxurious "Wakanda," genre-defying "Wake Up T'Challa"), while others draw comparisons with Hans Zimmer's modernistic blend of symphonic and rock elements (the edgy "Royal Talon Fighter," sweeping "A New Day"). Overall, the music here is dramatic and provides an exciting listening experience. Information: Disney.com.

Composer: Frederik Wiedmann
Title: Hangman: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Varèse Sarabande Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Dead Can Dance, Hans Zimmer
Tell me more: Although the film "Hangman" didn't score well with critics, the original motion picture for the American crime thriller is first rate and well worth discovering. Composer Frederik Wiedmann has crafted an especially potent work presented via 21 tracks on a single disc. The self-titled theme is bolstered by a strong sense of urgency; "Suicide Attempt" - featuring the haunting soprano of Ayana Haviv - recalls vocalist Lisa Gerrard's memorable work with Dead Can Dance. Other tracks such as the unsettling "Underneath The Cross," lovely "An Old Case," spellbinding "Archer" and tense "No Rest" bristle with sonic firepower. Information: VareseSarabande.com.


Robert Kinsler

Celebration for Ray Manzarek brings together surviving members of the Doors and celebrated friends

My review was originally posted on The Orange County Register site on Feb. 13, 2016. 

Surviving Doors members drummer John Densmore
and Robby Krieger performing at "Celebration for
Ray Manzarek" event. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Celebration for Ray Manzarek
Who: Robby Krieger, John Densmore, John Doe, Exene Cervenka, Rami Jaffee, Robert DeLeo, Taylor Hawkins, more
Where: The Fonda Theatre
When: Friday, Feb. 12, 2016

One of the most tragic things in the years leading up to the death of Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek in May 2013 was that original drummer John Densmore didn't join forces with Manzarek and guitarist Robby Krieger in their "Doors of the 21st Century" or "Riders on the Storm" projects.

However, on Friday night Densmore and Krieger performed together live for the first time in more than 15 years for the aptly-titled "Celebration for Ray Manzarek" at the Fonda Theatre on Feb. 12, 2016 (which marked what would have been Manzarek's 76th birthday). Along with a number of established and up-and-coming musical pals, the special concert served to honor Manzarek while also raising money for Stand Up To Cancer.

Drummer John Densmore at "Celebration for Ray
Manzarek" event on Feb. 12, 2016.
Photo: Kelly A. Swift

The three-hour event played out in two sections divided by a short intermission with musicians rotating on and off the stage with almost every song. Krieger performed on just about every offering, while Densmore (who suffers from a hearing disorder) performed on a handful of the Doors' best-known selections but left most of the drumming to Stephen Perkins (of Jane's Addiction fame) and others.

The first performance of the night was "When the Music's Over," with Gov't Mule singer-guitarist Warren Haynes' big baritone a good fit to deliver Morrison's ruminative lines. 

Foo Fighters' Taylor Hawkins, left, with John Densmore at the
"Celebration for Ray Manzarek" event on Feb. 12, 2016.
Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, who grew up in Laguna Beach, was featured on lead vocals for the next two songs, a mostly-straight forward take on "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)" highlighted by Krieger's inspired bluesy guitar solo, and a rocking "Love Me Two Times" with Rami Jaffee conjuring up the spirit of Manzarek for his convincing keyboard solo.

Taylor Hawkins at the "Celebration for Ray Manzarek"
event in Los Angeles on Feb. 12, 2016.
Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Another memorable performance that played out early featured Dead Sara vocalist Emily Armstrong firing up the troupe for "Back Door Man."

Guitarist Robby Krieger and his son, vocalist Waylon Krieger,
perform during a "Celebration for Ray Manzarek."
Photo: Kelly A. Swift

One of the most acclaimed keyboardists of the rock era, Manzarek also earned acclaim beginning in the early 1980s for his production of four albums for the Los Angeles-based band X. So it was fitting that several members of X were on hand to celebrate their work together; singer Exene Cervenka and bassist-singer John Doe recreated their reworked take on the Doors' "Soul Kitchen" (a highlight on the band's 1980 debut album "Los Angeles") and then introduced the X original "Nausea" by explaining that Manzarek had played keyboards on that song; guitarist Brian Ray (a long-time member of Paul McCartney's band) played some powerful lead guitar on the track, which featured the distinctive off-kilter duel vocals from Doe and Cervenka. 

The performances featuring members of X began a long run of strong performances, the best sounding was the one-two punch of "Five to One" and "Break On Through (To The Other Side)" with Krieger's son Waylon Krieger sounding remarkably like Morrison on both of those tracks and proving to be an effective frontman.  

Singer Andrew Wyatt of the Swedish indie band Miike Snow delivered one of the knockouts of the night with "L.A. Woman." Despite his vocals distorting early, his jumping into the crowd and powerful solos from Robby Krieger and Jaffee made it obvious this was among the sold-out crowd's favorites of the night.

The night's final selection, "Light My Fire," brought out the event's
entire cast to honor Ray Manzarek. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Several of the Doors' most beloved gems were saved for the end of the night, including a reflective "Riders On The Storm" (featuring Doe on lead vocals), explosive "Roadhouse Blues" and night-ending "Light My Fire," the latter enhanced by Jaffee's extended keyboards and the night's full cast crowding onto stage to sing and rightfully celebrate Manzarek – and ultimately the Doors' enduring legacy – in song.

Robert Kinsler

Audio Fidelity To Release “The Best Of The Doors” On Quadraphonic 4.0 Multichannel Hybrid SACD

Audio Fidelity To Release “The Best Of The Doors” On Quadraphonic 4.0 Multichannel Hybrid SACD

Available in multichannel for the first time since 1970! 

Camarillo, CA – Much to the excitement of Doors fans and music fans worldwide, Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity will be releasing The Best Of The Doors -1973 On Quadraphonic 4.0 Multichannel Hybrid SACD! The 2-channel stereo and DSD layers of the hybrid SACD were remastered from the original 2-track tapes which are available for the first time since 1970. The 4.0 Quad layer mirrors the earlier CD-4 QuadraDisc format, Quadraphonic 8-Track and reel-to-reel tape. The Best of The Doors -1973 compilation album was also released in standard Stereo.

The Doors were among the most controversial, influential and unique rock acts of the 1960's and beyond, mostly because of Jim Morrison's wild, poetic lyrics and charismatic but unpredictable stage persona. After Morrison's death in 1971, the remaining members, Ray Manzarek, John Densmore and Robby Krieger continued as a trio until disbanding in 1973.

Each of the tracks on “The Best Of The Doors-1973” have been taken primarily from the original two-track masters of the eight albums recorded by the band between 1967 and 1971. Three of the band's studio albums, “The Doors” (1967), “L.A. Woman” (1971), and “Strange Days” (1967), were featured in the Rolling Stone list of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The popular rock magazine also listed The Doors as “One of The 100 Greatest Artists of All Time!” As a matter of fact The Doors have been listed as one of the greatest artists of all time by many magazines and in 1993 were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

1 Who Do You Love

2 Soul Kitchen

3 Hello, I Love You

4 People Are Strange

5 *Riders On The Storm

6 Touch Me

7 *Love Her Madly

8 Love Me Two Times

9 Take It As It Comes

10 Moonlight Drive

11 Light My Fire

Producer – Paul A. Rothchild

Producer – *Bruce Botnick and The Doors

The Doors to issue 1968 film 'Feast of Friends' on November 11

One of rock's most groundbreaking artists, it's great to see that the Doors continue to have new music and art to share more than 40 years after the passing of Jim Morrison. Here is exciting news relating to the release of the film 'Feast of Friends.'

The Doors to issue never-released 1968 self-produced film

'Feast of Friends' on DVD, Blu-ray on November 11 via Eagle Rock Entertainment

Title also includes UK documentary and rare bonus footage

New York, NY (September 15, 2014)--Fans of THE DOORS will savor the news about the November 11 street date of a never-before-released documentary film produced by the band.  Titled Feast of Friends, the intimate and rare look at the explosive rock band is, after 45 years, finally being released.  Shelved due to lead singer Jim Morrison’slegal issues, the uncompleted film was only ever seen at a few film festivals and was never completed.  Eagle Rock Entertainment and Doors Property, LLC have painstakingly remastered the audio and video and compiled bonus footage as well as an historic British documentary called The Doors Are Open. 

In April of 1968, filming began for what would become the first and only film produced about The Doors, by The Doors.  Funded by the band and helmed by friend and fellow film graduate Paul Ferrara, the footage shot for this film would become the well from which the majority of future documentaries and music videos about the band would draw. This film became Feast of Friends, as Paul Ferrara thought it was a great lyric to use for the title.  Other than a few appearances in film festivals the following year, an official release would never be seen. Until now. 

If not for a poor quality bootleg copy circulated among collectors and eventually via the Internet, the film’s existence would have scarcely been known beyond the circle of diehard Doors fans. By many accounts, the original source of that bootleg is thought to have been Morrison’s own copy, which he hand-carried when he moved to Paris in 1971 after recording what would be The Doors’ final album.  Concealed in a paper bag and forgotten at a friend’s house, Morrison would never reclaim it, as he passed suddenly a few days later.

Feast of Friends offers a cinematic look at The Doors on the road during their summer ’68 tour. Whilst never truly completed, as the production funding was abruptly cut due to the band’s political problems stemming from Jim’s arrest in Miami, the film provides a stylistic approach in true 60’s cinéma vérité style.  The film is comprised of concert performances which are intercut with fly-on-the-wall footage of the group in their natural habitat - playful, sensitive, chaotic and touching. Other than a few appearances in film festivals in 1968, this is the first official release. Completely restored from the original negative, as supervised by Jim Morrison, the film has been color-corrected and mastered in high definition with the soundtrack totally remixed and remastered by long-time Doors co-producer/engineer Bruce Botnick.

As well as the full version of Feast of Friends, this amazing release contains three important bonus features.  The first is Feast of Friends: Encore.  A newly produced feature using footage shot for Feast of Friends, Encore is a complimentary piece that provides a deeper look into the life of the band during this period as they tour, record, travel and even vacation together. The program avoids the typical selection of hits and makes use of The Doors’ rare recordings to accompany this unreleased footage.  Encoreshowcases the band’s recording process as The Doors record one of their biggest hits, “Wild Child.”  Viewers will follow the band as they break from touring to sightsee, play poker in their hotel room and witness an unedited interaction with Jim and the “Minister at Large” who attempts to determine “just what the hell it is (they’re) doing.”  Fans will also see a newly unearthed solo backstage performance by a singing Robby Krieger, a poem by Jim Morrison (while, in the background, you can hear Ray Manzarek’s piano work on “Love Street”), a never-before-seen altercation with legendary photographer Richard Avedon, a tranquil scene of Jim and his friends at peace in the cool waters of the Kern River, and much more.

Next is The Doors Are Open – A British TV documentary originally aired on December 17^th, 1968, focused around the band’s performance at London’s Roundhouse, which took place just days after the completion of filming for Feast of Friends. Interspersed with the band’s music are intense scenes from the Vietnam War, political leaders, and riots back in the States. The Doors Are Open highlights the political relevance of The Doors’ opinionated lyrics and iconic sound while giving context to the tumultuous times in which they were living. Although previously released, the film has suffered from numerous sound and picture quality issues. Now the image quality has been dramatically improved and the sound has been transformed by Bruce Botnick to be as true to the original live sound as possible. 

Also included is The End - a feature that was filmed in Toronto, Canada in August 1967. This performance of ‘The End’ was for The O’Keefe Centre Presents: The Rock Scene – Like It Is.  It was originally broadcast on October 16, 1967 in Canada, and August 1, 1970 in the US as part of a musical program called The Now Explosion. In addition to the performance, it includes an introduction by Noel Harrison and later interviews by John Densmore, Robby Krieger, Ray Manzarek and longtime Doors collaborator Danny Sugerman. Many fans consider this recording to be one of the best Doors performances ever caught on film.

Feast of Friends paints a chaotic yet gentle picture of the humanistic side of The Doors seldom captured by anyone - at that time or since.  At one moment Morrison is fighting off legions of ravenous fans while at the same time taunting them to keep pressing on. These films represent the most requested visuals from The Doors via fan polls worldwide, finally presented together in stunning style; Feast of Friends is an historical piece of 60’s filmmaking that is important to both The Doors’ fans and the wider world of cinema.

Eagle Rock Entertainment is the largest producer and distributor of music programming for DVD, Blu-Ray, TV, Audio and Digital Media in the world.  Eagle works directly alongside talent to produce top quality, High Definition and 3D programs, both concerts and documentaries, including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who, Queen, The Doors, Jeff Beck, U2, Peter Gabriel, Paul McCartney and Ozzy Osbourne. Eagle is a Grammy Award winning company and has received over 30 multi-platinum, over 50 platinum and over 90 gold discs, worldwide.  Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices in London, New York, Toronto, Paris and Hamburg.

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