VH1 Storytellers - The Doors (A Celebration)
The surviving members of the Doors did a savvy thing with this hourlong session ofVH-1 Storytellers, first broadcast in early 2001. Knowing that they could never replace their late and legendary frontman, Jim Morrison, the Doors (Ray Manzarek, Robbie Krieger, and John Densmore) invited vocalists from a variety of hot bands to offer their own interpretations of eight classic Doors hits. The spectre of Morrison looms over the entire set, reminding us that the charismatic, leather-clad Lizard King could never, ever be matched in terms of vocal style, depth, and heart-rending soul. It's best, then, to let these admiring young rockers enjoy this opportunity to pay reverent homage, and they do it with considerable skill. Above it all, the remaining Doors form a solid trio, still lighting fire to songs they've performed thousands of times.Patrick Monahan (from Train) kicks off with a sharp rendition of "Love Me Two Times," and the Cult's Ian Astbury tries (almost successfully) to bring a medley of "Whiskey Bar/Backdoor Man" up to Morrison's level. The highlight comes from Days of the New's Travis Meeks, whose performance of "The End" is fresh, impassioned, and altogether triumphant. Nearly as good is Stone Temple Pilots' Scott Weiland (clearly a Morrison worshipper), who burns through "Break On Through" and "Five to One" with adequate fervor. Creed's Scott Stapp closes with "Light My Fire" (proving that the original is still untouchable) and a rafter-rattling "Roadhouse Blues." Each performance is noteworthy, and die-hard Doors fans shouldn't miss this latter-day celebration. Younger listeners who are less aware of Morrison's legacy are best served, in the long run; they get the best of both worlds, old and new.--Jeff Shannon