THE DOORS レコード& CD

Review: The third album by The Doors from 1968 made heavier use of improvisation, opposing their earlier reliances on pure composition. Responsible in large part for what has become known as "third album syndrome" - the tertiary equivalent of the infamous "sophomore slump", whereby, in either case, bands struggle to come up with original material after a stonking debut or two - the album provoked mixed reactions on release, owing to its loosened, comparatively slack sound, in contrast to their raucous debut and second LPs. While Jim Morrison's worsening alcoholism provoked such skepticisms at the time, the album was embraced by fans in hindsight, and now this Rhino Records release cements that legacy with new original liners and rare photos. Elements of their original sonic buzz still remain, as on the title track, where twinging stereo twangs complement expectant, purgatory tenors from Morrison.