Exploring the Underappreciated Masterpieces: The Doors' Untapped Albums

The Doors, one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of the 1960s, is often remembered for their blues-rock sound and the enigmatic persona of frontman Jim Morrison. However, beyond their celebrated albums like The Doors and Strange Days, there lies a treasure trove of underrated works that showcase the band's artistic evolution and versatility.

The Most Underrated Doors Albums

There are three particularly underappreciated Doors albums that deserve recognition:

The Soft Parade (1969)

The Soft Parade is considered one of the most underrated Doors albums. Released in 1969, this album took the band in a more orchestral and eclectic direction compared to their earlier blues-rock style. The addition of orchestral elements and diverse instrumentation resulted in a sound that was innovative and experimental for its time. While the album was initially met with mixed reviews from critics, it is now widely regarded as an adventurous and creative work, reflecting the band's willingness to explore new musical horizons.

Other Voices (1971)

Following the tragic death of Jim Morrison, the remaining members of the Doors—Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore—continued to create music without their legendary frontman. The album Other Voices marked a significant departure from Morrison's presence, both lyrically and vocally. Ray Manzarek took over the lead vocals, and the absence of Morrison's distinctive voice brought a different texture to the band's sound. Despite this, the album showcases the band's continued musicianship and songwriting capabilities, making it an essential listen for Doors fans.

Full Circle (1971)

Full Circle, the Doors' final studio album with Jim Morrison’s vocals, is a relatively mellow and introspective work compared to their earlier hard-hitting material. While it may be overlooked by listeners, it contains some of the band's most poetic and atmospheric compositions. This album demonstrates the band's ability to evolve their sound even in the face of personal tragedy, solidifying their status as a band that could adapt and thrive in changing musical landscapes.

Challenges and Success of Post-Morrison Albums

The last two albums, Other Voices and Full Circle, were recorded after Jim Morrison's untimely death in 1971. The band, facing the daunting challenge of recording without their main songwriter and lead vocalist, turned to Ray Manzarek to handle the lead vocals. Legend has it that the band initially tried to find a replacement in Iggy Pop, but this attempt did not materialize, likely due to Iggy Pop being in even more dire shape than Morrison.

Although the post-Morrison albums were not as lyrically deep as Morrison's own compositions, they were still met with respectful reviews. While the lyrical content may not have reached the same heights as Morrison's poetic verses, the technical proficiency and musicianship of the band shone through, cementing their status as a masterful rock ensemble.

Conclusion

While the Doors' first few albums like The Doors and Strange Days are rightly celebrated as classics, the less commercially successful works of this era deserve more recognition. These albums, The Soft Parade, Other Voices, and Full Circle, demonstrate the band's versatility and their artistic growth, making them essential listens for any fan of rock music. These albums are not just part of the Doors' discography; they are a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their ability to push the boundaries of their art.