You’ve probably heard of, or even watched, bootleg versions of this historic concert delivered by the then-most popular rock group in America, The Doors. By the time they had reached this artistic and commercial peak in 1968, they’d released three chart topping albums and had a bucketload of hits like “Light By Fire,” “Hello, I Love You” and “The Unknown Soldier.” What set this band apart from all others was that they were fronted by the ultra charismatic Jim Morrison, who was essentially a frustrated starving poet, and also the fact that the band of Robby Krieger, John Densmore and Ray Manzarek were adept at not only rock, but blues, classical and jazz. During this concert at the Hollywood Bowl (on a self produced film that’s been excellently cleaned up and remastered) the band not only delivers one of their most cogent, tight and in the pocket performances ever, but the entire spectrum of music, poetry and theatrics is in abundant display. Morrison recites a bit of verse, acts out “The Unknown Soldier” and growls like a man on the chain gang on “Back Door Man” and “The Alabama Song.” The band is as flexible as a bar band, and can deliver pieces like “Light My Fire” and the dramatic “The End” with the visceral allure of an Italian opera.
The Bonus features start off with three intriguing segments that include a history of the Hollywood Bowl itself (did you know it’s first performance was an Easter Sunrise Service?), a collection of interviews with Manzarek, Krieger, Densmore, The Chambers Brothers (who shared the bill that night) and producer Bruce Botnick, and a fascinating insight as to the restoration of the actual film. The sad fact that Morrison gave a drug-induced performance, as well as the weathered looks on the other musician’s faces are harrowing reflections of the nvolved itime. Also featured are the famous performances on The Smothers Brothers and Jonathan Winters Shows, as well as a handful of other ditties that no Doors fan will want to miss. This is a gem that breaks on through to the other side musically, but a proverbial warning on other levels.
Eagle Vision DVD