As the spotlights beam down on an empty stage at Fibbers, the identical equipment used by The Doors in the 60’s is mysteriously illuminated. Fender amps, a Gibson Guitar, a mod style orange drum kit and Rhodes keyboards occupy the stage, awaiting the arrival of the band members. The audience is comprised mainly of locals who are more than ready to lose themselves in a recreation of a live Doors performance. When The Doors in Concert arrive on stage there is an appreciative cheer from the audience, and rightly so, as the appearance of all four band members is an impressive sight to behold. A re-incarnated Jim Morrison rocks a pair of tight leather trousers and a revealing white shirt whilst the keyboardist and guitarist pay a fine attention to detail with regard to the haircuts, accessories and even postures of Ray Manzarek and Robbie Krieger. The only possible weak link in terms of appearance is the drummer who, in a valiant attempt to depict John Densmore, looks like he is dressed in a novelty cowboy outfit. But this very minor complaint is immediately forgotten as soon as the band begins to play.
They churn through faultless renditions of ‘Roadhouse Blues’, ‘Backdoor Man’ and ‘Alabama Song’ with all the energy and vigour that was initially instilled in them fifty five years ago. Wild yelps and deep croons resonate throughout each song as if Jim Morrison himself was present at Fibbers. The band treat the crowd to classics such as ‘L.A Woman’, ‘Moonlight Drive’, ‘Riders on the Storm’ and ‘People are Strange’ before entering into a twelve minute long version of ‘Light My Fire’ in which the mesmerising organ and guitar solos make evident the genuine musical talent of the band. The Doors in Concert perform at least one track from each of The Doors’ albums and, in covering material which ranges across the Door’s discography, accurately represent all different aspects of the band’s output.
The only slight disappointment which arose from the evening was the band’s choice to exclude ‘The End’ from the set, which would have made for a dark, yet fitting end to the evening were it included as a final encore. Other than that one slight request, the set was complete and each track was authentically justified. Morrison’s sauntering around the stage whilst his band mates worked through intricate jams and solos created a refreshing and intimate recreation of The Doors’ live performances. A commitment to even the smallest of details enabled The Doors in Concert to provide an all-encompassing and thoroughly memorable tribute.