The Doors swan song L.A. Woman was released 50 years ago today on April 19th, 1971 on Elektra Records. By 1971, The Doors legacy and popularity was on the rocks but luckily they were able to bounce back with their 1970 classic Morrison Hotel which was lauded by critics as their return to their blues roots while adding their signature sound. However, their legendary frontman Jim Morrison was in bad shape. Prior to recording, the past year he was arrested in New Haven, Connecticut for indecent and immoral exhibition and breach of peace and he resisted arrest in Phoenix, Arizona where he was charged with abuse with an in-flight attendant while also interfering with the aircraft. Physically, he wasn't in the best of shape . He drank continuously and developed a beer belly, grew a beard, and was on and off again with his use of drugs. However, despite with all that was stacked against them the band was able to create a masterpiece that many consider the bands best album next to their debut LP and I'm inclined to agree. "Love Her Madly" showcased once again Morrison's crooner knack as he was influenced by Frank Sinatra and the title is taken from a saying Duke Ellington would say to the audience at his shows . It's a laid back groovy jam in A minor and is just a joy to listen to. However, this song single handedly ended the bands friendship with their longtime manager Paul Rothchild who coined the song as "cocktail music." he couldn't be more off the mark. The title track is truly one of rock and rolls greatest anthems , The song is a tribute to the bands hometown and about hitting the open road. It's a two chorded masterpiece as it revolves just around A major and G major and showcases why the band works so well musically. You have Robby Krieger's simple yet effective blues phrasing , Ray Manzarek's rollocking piano , John Densmore's sophisticated drumming and of course Morrison's epic vocal delivery. The song is legendary for its build up bridge section with Morrison chanting "Mr Mojo Risin" over and over which builds and builds until Morrison releases his signature rock n roll howl . John Densmore has stated in later interviews that "Mr Mojo Risin" is an anagram for Jim Morrison himself. The band doesn't shy away for showing their blues influences once again with 2 original compositions being the rollocking "Been Down So Long' and the slow infused bluesy "Cars Hiss By My Window."
The closing track "Riders on The Storm" is the closest The Doors ever gotten to jazz and once again showcases the bands talents with Krieger's country-western guitar and Ray Manzarek's haunting piano. Sadly, this would be the final album The Doors would release with Jim Morrison. Jim Morrison would pass way two months later on July 3rd, 1971 in Paris, France due to an heroine overdose. 50 years later, The Doors continue to inspire musicians with their one of a kind musical style and like James Dean, Morrison has cemented himself as the ultimate sex symbol. The Doors are truly up there with one of America's greatest bands and this album is a testament to their infinite legacy.
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