Prior  News  &  Reviews

 January 25, 2012   The Doors "dissected" <> merch sale
The Doors get 'dissected' by Michael Roffman, President & Editor-In-Chief of ConsequenceOfSound.com.  A humorous analysis of all six studio albums ensues, including 'who did it better' comparisons to Val Kilmer in the Oliver Stone film.  If you are on media overload between reviews of the LAW 40th Anniversary releases and the Greil Marcus book, it's an entertaining distraction:  http://consequenceofsound.net/2012/01/dissected-the-doors/

The Doors store is running a 'Valentine's Day' promotion on their merch website.  Buy one shirt or hoodie at regular price and get the second one 50% off.  They do have a lot of designs there (although I don't think I saw any hoodies).  Check it out at: http://thedoors.shop.bravadousa.com/Dept.aspx?cp=41800_53634&sort=&page=0

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 January 24, 2012    LAW DVD review <> 'Blitz' magazine <> arsonist update <> Ray in Beatweek <> Doors contest <> TV sighting
Today's release of 'Mr. Mojo Risin'   The Story of L.A. Woman' is getting great media and fan reviews across the board.  Here's another, this one by Bernard Perusse of the Montreal Gazette: http://www.montrealgazette.com/Review+Mojo+Risin+Story+Woman/6042392/story.html

Portuguese magazine 'Blitz' includes 8 pages about The Doors.  Issue #68 features Jim on the cover and goes on sale on January 27.  Here is the website showing the cover: http://blitz.aeiou.pt/gen.pl?p=stories&op=view&m=5&fokey=bz.stories/79059  (thanks, Rui)

The German-born S.O.B. who terrorized Los Angeles over New Year's weekend with his arson fires -  which included our hallowed and beloved 'Love Street' house on Rothdell Trail in Laurel Canyon - pleaded 'not guilty' in court today. Baill was set at $7.5 million.  The criminal complaint was amended to include a total of 100 arson-related counts involving the 49 fires.  If convicted, he faces more than 80 years in state prison.  Read the full story at: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jOnjtnyMp-sI3wsvr9nUsvsAvdtw?docId=b89cbcf79a5f4ccaa35698a3bb0a7d51

Ray Manzarek had a nice interview with Dana Feldman of Beatweek magazine.  Check it out at: http://www.beatweek.com/tag/the-doors/ (thanks, Gilles)

Now that everyone has their copies of the L.A. Woman 2-CD set and the Mr. Mojo Risin DVD, here is a contest for you.  The Doors website http://www.thedoors.com/index.php  says:  Upload a photo of you with the 40th Anniversary Edition of L.A. Woman or the Mr. Mojo Risin' DVD or Blu-ray to http://thedoors.tumblr.com/  for your chance to win a copy of Greil Marcus's new book 'The Doors - A Lifetime of Listening To Five Mean Years'.

A framed poster of the 'Waiting For The Sun' album cover hangs on the wall of a NYC CPA visited by Jason Jones in a sketch about tax shelters and tax avoidance on tonight's 'The Daily Show With Jon Stewart'.  Easy to miss (thank goodness for DVRs) but it is unmistakable and can be seen several times. 

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 January 23, 2012    photography site
RockPaperPhoto.com website has some great band photos for sale.  I don't know if I have ever shared this link before, but if so, it's worth a repeat: http://www.rockpaperphoto.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=the+doors

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 January 22, 2012   DVD premiere story <> DVD premiere pix <> Rolling Stone with Ray & Robby <> John interview <> 2-LP 'Workshop Sessions' <> original radio promo <> French 'film' <> U.K. TV shows <> Henry Diltz appearance
Friday night's premiere of "The Doors  The Making of L.A. Woman" at Hollywood's Egyptian Theater got a write-up by Michael Hepworth on HollywoodToday.net ...  read that at:  http://www.hollywoodtoday.net/2012/01/22/year-of-the-doors-la-woman-film-world-premiere/

Lots of photos are showing up on-line from Friday night's Egyptian Theater screening.  Here is a good link:  http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/StP0InH1gSD/Screening+Doors+Mr+Mojo+Risin+Making+L+Woman/9Nfnt_r1PHr/Ray+Manzarekt

RollingStone.com writer Steve Appleford writes about The Doors, the new DVD and other releases coming, tour plans, the screening on Friday night in Hollywood, the absent band member, Skrillex, and lots more in conversation with Ray and Robby.  Read it at: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/the-doors-rise-again-with-new-documentary-and-unreleased-song-20120122

John Densmore spoke at length with Jon Woodhouse of the Maui News while in Hawaii last month.  The story ran a few weeks ago at: http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/556868/JOHN-DENSMORE-reopens-the-doors--way-of-perception.html?nav=5014  (thanks, Jeff)

"L.A. Woman: The Workshop Sessions",  the 2-LP vinyl set, will be released on March 16.  It is available for pre-order through The Doors' website store at: http://thedoors.shop.bravadousa.com/Product.aspx?cp=41800_50796&pc=BGLPDR01 or else through Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0069SG4W0/ref=s9_simh_bw_p74_d17_g15_i3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-4&pf_rd_r=0JZTWPAQPCTKHHKVCX8E&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1315015662&pf_rd_i=5174

An original radio promo for "L.A. Woman" can be heard here: http://soundcloud.com/thedoors/original-l-a-woman-radio-promo (thanks, Gilles)

'Mr Mojo' is a French Morrison-based film that I thought looked too lame to mention more than once way back when.  Here is a 4-1/2 minute segment that appears on the film's website on their news page.  Not being French-fluent I'm making some educated guesses here, but I think that a French TV program called Court Central broadcast this.  I suppose those actors are supposed to represent Jim and Pam, but they don't even resemble them, and the whole thing looks seamy.  Decide for yourself at: http://www.mrmojo-themovie.com/news.php (thanks, Gilles)

Doors fans who live 'over the pond' may want to know that 'The Doors  Live In Europe' is on Sky Arts 1 at 11 pm on January 27, and 'No One Here Gets Out Alive' is on the same channel at 12 pm on January 28.  These are U.K. times.  (thanks, Ollie)

Rock photographer Henry Diltz appears in Santa Monica in an "Evening With ... " program.  This happens on Wednesday, February 8th at Track 16 Gallery at Bergamot Station at 8:00 p.m. (a reception precedes the program).  For more info and to purchase tickets, go to: http://livetalksladiltz.eventbrite.com/

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 January 21, 2012    LAW screening at Egyptian <> DVD review <> LA Weekly cover <> French Rock & Folk cover 
Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger, along with Bruce Botnick, were the not-so-surprising "special guests" at last night's premiere screening of 'The Doors   Mr. Mojo Risin':  The Story of L.A. Woman' at Hollywood's beautiful and historic Egyptian Theater.  You don't need to hear my personal review of the film.  There are professionals who do that much better than I could, and the reviews are in abundance.  Besides, no one has ever accused me of being impartial about this band.  Instead, I'll relate the first-person experience from last night.  There was a VIP reception in the lobby area that preceded the admittance of the hundreds of fans lined up in the courtyard.  There was also a lengthy stand-by line for this sold-out event.  A table was set up inside to sell not only other Doors releases, but also the new LAW DVD ... so fans were able to purchase that four days ahead of its official release date.  Once everyone was seated, The Doors manager Jeff Jampol made a few opening remarks and introduced Elektra Records founder Jac Holzman.  Jac spoke for about ten minutes and then turned it over to local DJ legend Jim Ladd, who served as emcee.  Following the screening of the film, Ray, Robby, Bruce Botnick and Jac Holzman emerged from the VIP seats and took to the chairs lined up in front, along with Jim Ladd, for the audience Q &A.  I didn't write down everything from the Q&A, but here are some comments that stood out (or that I can read my writing).  Regarding the clever use of "billboards" to introduce each song, I'm pretty sure the answer was that it was Jeff's idea.  Ray called Robby the band's "secret weapon".  Jim Ladd praised Jac Holzman as a 'wonderful poetic soul' ...  Robby remarked that no other label "got them".  Jac then commented that he didn't "get them" either the first few nights, but that he kept going back.  When asked about the decision to record the band at their rehearsal workshop instead of the studio, Bruce Botnick said it was because they were most comfortable there.  Bruce also said that one thing done differently for LAW was that they worked on one song at a time, and finished it, before moving on to the next, instead of working one one song for awhile, then putting it aside to start work on another one.  Jac spoke about his decision to delay the release of the first LP until January, after the Christmas music season ended.  Elektra did not release any other LPs in January, so all their emphasis was on The Doors.  Jac also said that following Jim's death, he left the L.A. Woman billboard up for six months in tribute.  Someone asked if any of the LAW songs had been considered for inclusion on Morrison Hotel, and the answer was no.  It was Bruce Botnick's idea to put the whispers in Riders On The Storm.  Robby said that being on Elektra was great because it gave an aura of being an 'underground band', and that all the records he owned prior were from Elektra.  Oh, and "smart people liked The Doors".  Someone asked if they will play the Whisky again (they were there in August 2011) .. and Ray said "yes".  Ray then went on to say that in late June they are heading to Russia and Europe again.  They will play Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kiev and other European dates and that John Densmore is always welcome to join them.  Someone asked about the Oliver Stone film.  Robby and Ray both praised Val Kilmer's work and the music in the film, and Robby added that Kilmer should have won awards.  One under-informed audience member commented that Ray and Robby seem to be close, and asked “do you not talk to John Densmore?”  (She has some sad historical catching up to do.)  Someone asked what they miss most about Jim.  Robby said that when Jim was around, 'there was always something happening!'  Ray added that he misses playing with Jim and John, and losing oneself in the power of the music.  As the Q&A session wrapped up, Jac Holzman said it was the best film he has ever seen about the making of a record.  Bruce Botnick added that there is a "holy grail" that will be let loose in the next few months.  They all posed for pix for a few minutes before exiting through the side door.  I thought the film was great and REALLY appreciated the opportunity to watch it on a big screen.  The DVD's bonus features were not screened last night and I have not had a chance to watch that yet.  I must comment that Robby was wearing a VERY cool shirt in the film's interview segments, and again last night.  I don't know if it is custom-made or a prototype for future merchandise, but I want one for myself!  It's a subtle pattern, so be sure to take notice of that when you watch the DVD.

Speak of the devil ... here's another review of the DVD from AllAboutJazz.com ...  the reviews have been coming in fast and furious, but I don't think I've shared this one yet: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=92600

The L.A. Weekly cover story that I linked to last Wednesday, actually has a surprise trick cover!  I had been told (and expected) that it was Jim on the cover ... however, upon snagging a copy last night after the screening, it was easy to see why the uninitiated would make that mistake with a quick glance.  The cover model is credited as Kelly Cunningham.  Check out the cover here.

French magazine Rock & Folk's latest issue honors the band with their cover story "L.A. Woman Revisited".  Check out the cover at: http://www.journaux.fr/rock-folk-hors-serie_musique-danse_art-et-culture_150761.html  (thanks, Gilles)

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 January 20, 2012    Ray interview <> Downton Abbey fan <> Ray & Robby interview <> RS on LAW CD re-issue
Ray Manzarek spoke with Billboard Magazine about the L.A. Woman DVD and the Skrillex collaboration.  Ray reveals that The Doors were asked to play 'Breakn' A Sweat' with Skrillex on this year's Grammy Awards telecast, but that plan was nixed by John Densmore (who also plays on the track).  Ray also shares that the Skrillex project has inspired a few ideas for more Doors involvement in the electronic music realm.  He also teases us with the tidbit that there's "a bunch of stuff cooked up" for The Year of the Doors, although he does not expect any of the other albums to get the same archival treatment as LAW due to lack of outtakes.  Read the full interview at: http://www.billboard.com/news/jim-morrison-would-love-skrillex-the-doors-1005933752.story#/news/jim-morrison-would-love-skrillex-the-doors-1005933752.story

I confess that I had never heard of 'Downton Abbey' until all the nominations and attention at the Golden Globes Awards this past Sunday.  But in this story about NYC devotees of the British soap opera, it is revealed that none other than Patricia Kennealy is a fan.  Picture this, if you can: in the last two paragraphs of the story, Ms. Kennealy reveals that she watches the show alone in bed wearing sweat pants and a tiara (she has two of them).  Read it at: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/19/fashion/downton-abbey-inspires-themed-viewing-parties.html

Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger did a fun, loose interview with Julian Casablancas of The Strokes.  I love learning that another fave was influenced by The Doors.  Read the interview on Complex.com at:  http://www.complex.com/music/2012/01/interview-julian-casablancas-of-the-strokes-talks-to-the-doors

"L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary Edition" CD re-issue racked up 4-1/2 out of 5 stars in the new Rolling Stone (cover: David Bowie).  On page 64, this is what Will Hermes has to say:  Some artists create their most intense work when they hit rock bottom:  See Vincent Van Gogh, Billie Holiday, Nick Drake and Jim Morrison, whose final album with the Doors is a Southern California death trip that matches anything in their catalog for beautifully spooked rock & roll urge-purging.  Made amid professional train wrecks and personal downward spirals, it's a surprisingly focused set, in part a return to the Doors' blues-rock roots.  Morrison's hot baritone killed, Robby Krieger's guitar is laser-guided, and "The Changeling" and "Been Down So Long" are garage-style classics.  Even the sprawling set pieces, "Riders on the Storm" and "L.A. Woman," are formal masterpieces, bound by exacting grooves and precise solos.  This reissue coincides with Greil Marcus' 'The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years', which is far more illuminating than the bonus tracks.  "She Smells So Nice" is a forgettable bar-band boogie, "Rock Me" a generic slow blues that fiddles with Morrison's iconic "Mr. Mojo risin'" incantation.  The alternate takes are all lesser versions interspersed with studio chatter and other audio vérité - the sound of a band enjoying its work, unaware its time was nearly up.  (The RS rating system gives 5 stars for "Classic!" and 4 stars for "Excellent" ... so 4-1/2 stars is, well, pretty awesome!)

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 January 19, 2012    LAW DVD review <> Morrison lyrics in song <> John interview on LAW <> vintage Doors reference <> Ray & Roy add Florida show
"The Doors  Mr. Mojo Risin': The Making of L.A. Woman" DVD got reviewed on BigPictureBigSound.com.  Rachel Cericola gave it three out of four stars in this write-up:  http://www.bigpicturebigsound.com/The-Doors-Mr-Mojo-Risin---The-Story-of-L-A-Woman-Blu-ray.shtml

Monster Magnet have uploaded a song that they recorded utilizing lyrics they claim were written and sung by Jim Morrison, but unreleased.  They call their song Armageddon Theme and they use some Hollywood Bowl clips in the video.  Check it out for yourself at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jgePjO8HXA

John Densmore shares remembrances with Graham Reid for NZHerald.co.nz, and talks about recording L.A. Woman.  Check it out at:  http://www.nzherald.co.nz/graham-reid/news/article.cfm?a_id=89&objectid=10780001

Here is a vintage Doors reference that comes out of left field!  Doors fan Jeff K. shares a link to a site for 'Great Oscar Moments'.  It's a fun five minutes to watch just because it is so "late 60's".  Moment #42 is titled "Groovy Costumes, Baby" and spotlights the 41st Academy Awards, held in April 1969.  Jane Fonda was onstage presenting the award for Costume Design.  While you watch the swinging musical medley that highlights nominees such as "Planet of the Apes", "Oliver!", and "Romeo and Juliet" ...  pay attention to the music! http://www.oscars.org/awards/academyawards/84/moments/index42.html (thanks, Jeff)

The Manzarek-Rogers Band appears April 20th at the Bamboo Room in Lake Worth, Florida.  This follows their appearance the previous day at the Wanee Festival 2012 in Live Oak, Florida.  For more info, the venue website is: http://www.bamboorm.com/

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 January 18, 2012     Felt Forum shows <> 2012 Medlock-Krieger Invitational <> Skrillex <> Wanee Festival 2012 <> eBay acetate auction <> L.A. Weekly story <> John interview & appearance <> 'Canyon of Dreams' in soft cover <> Ray interview
Today marks 42 years since my fourth of five Doors concerts.  This one was the late show on the second of two nights at the Felt Forum at NYC's Madison Square Garden.  If I could have three wishes, one of them would be to have a photographic memory:  http://idafan.com/Live-FeltForumReview.htm.  It sure is nice to have an official recording, released as The Doors  Live In New York - Felt Forum box set, to help me re-live that night: http://www.amazon.com/Live-New-York-Felt-Forum/dp/B002N3GD2Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1326911433&sr=1-1

The annual Medlock-Krieger Invitational Golf Tournament & Concert will be on Monday, August 20 this year.  Once again, it will be at the Moorpark Country Club, and will again benefit St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital. It's way too early to be drumming up volunteers, but I'll let you know when it's time if you'd like to participate.

Skrillex cannot be ignored.  (I have been trying).  No apologies, I am not the 'target demographic' for his type of music anyway.  This video was released for "Breakin' A Sweat" featuring Ray, Robby and John: http://www.vevo.com/watch/skrillex/breakn-a-sweat/USQY51224268  Don't get your hopes up, John was NOT in the studio at the same time that Ray and Robby were.   : < (   I'm unsure if this is the same one I shared a few months ago.  Anyway, if this scene is your cup of tea, Skrillex has a bunch of L.A.-area dates in the near future: http://www.skrillex.com/ (thanks, Ruben)

The Manzarek-Rogers Band appearance in April at the Wanee Festival 2012 in Live Oak, Florida was announced months ago.  Tickets for the festival are finally going on sale on Friday.  For more info about ticketing and the rest of the line-up, go to: http://www.waneefestival.com/

An eBay auction describing a 4-track EP mono 45 RPM acetate recently ended with no bidders interested in the $599.00 opening listing.  The songs were Break On Through, Back Door Man, Soul Kitchen, and I Looked At You.  You can check that closed auction out at: http://www.ebay.com/itm/DOORS-ACETATE-4-TRACK-EP-MONO-45-RPM-SUPER-QUALITY-SOUND-VINTAGE-PSYCH-GUITAR-/150732892891?pt=Music_on_Vinyl&hash=item2318616adb (thanks, Gilles)

The latest L.A. Weekly's music section lead story is by Jeff Weiss and is headlined "L.A. Woman Was the Doors' Bluesy Masterpiece -- and Jim Morrison's Kiss-Off to L.A."  It is quite an essay!  Read it at: http://www.laweekly.com/2012-01-19/music/the-doors-la-woman-40th-anniversary/

John Densmore does an interview with the MusicSantaBarbara.com website and talks about an upcoming event.  On February 17, John and actor Edward James Olmos will co-host a benefit for The Rhythmic Arts Project at Lobero Theater in Santa Barbara, CA.  According to the website, the headliner is Robben Ford. Read the interview at: http://musicsantabarbara.com/featured/john-densmore.   For more info about the Rhythmic Arts Project, go to: http://traponline.org/    For the Lobero Theater website: http://lobero.com/calendar/index.php?display=event&id=738&returnto=list (thanks, Jim)

"Canyon of Dreams - The Magic and the Music of Laurel Canyon" by music journalist and author Harvey Kubernik (with foreword by Ray Manzarek), will be released in soft cover format on March 6.  The hard cover coffee table version was released October 2009 and is chock full of photos and stories about Laurel Canyon.  The soft cover is available for pre-order at: http://www.amazon.com/Canyon-Dreams-Magic-Music-Laurel/dp/1402765894/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326945512&sr=1-1

Ray Manzarek did an interview with ArtistDirect.com.  Read it at: http://www.artistdirect.com/entertainment-news/article/ray-manzarek-of-the-doors-talks-l-a-woman-a-favorite-jim-morrison-memory-she-smells-so-nice-skrillex-and-2001-a-spacey-odyssey/9854908

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 January 15, 2012    LAW DVD review <> Love Street aftermath <> podcast on Morrison <> Greil Marcus
"The Doors  Mr. Mojo Risin': The Making of L.A. Woman" DVD got itself a nice review on BlogCritics.org.  Read what Wesley Britton has to say at: http://blogcritics.org/video/article/dvd-review-mr-mojo-risin-the/

KTLA-TV in Los Angeles recently filmed a piece on the damage that was sustained at 8021 Rothdell Trail when the nut-job included Love Street in his arson spree.  Check out this 2-minute video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJkTsVbZn7c (thanks, Joanna)

'The Last of Jim Morrison' - Milestones from the last year of Jim's life' is the title of a 2-hour show on a series called The Last Chill by DJ Bennett.  It ran on killradio.org on December 17, but you can get the Podcast here: http://www.radio4all.net/index.php/program/56567.   I have not checked this out, so I have no insights about its content and/or whether it's worth two hours of your time.  (thanks, Gilles)

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus caught more press recently.  The Guardian review by Sean O'Hagan indicates that the U.K. has a different book cover, which is not unusual:  http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2012/jan/15/greil-marcus-the-doors-review/print.  Bookforum.com  has an interview with author Greil Marcus:  http://www.bookforum.com/index.php?pn=interview&id=8831  (thanks, Kyle & Gilles)

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 January 14, 2012   Jeff Jampol interview <> L.A. Woman in French mag <> Making of LAW trailer <> Morrison at IOW interview <> Ray & Roy interview <> Ray & Robby to play Rome?
Jeff Jampol, manager of The Doors, discusses managing and protecting the legacy of The Doors as well as other artists and artist estates in a 38-minute video show called This Week In Music.  Along with interviewer Ian Rogers, Jeff discusses the "brand" of The Doors and provides a lot of insight into the challenges and strategies of the business.  It's actually very interesting.  Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50ApU8edtpg

'L.A. Woman' gets two pages in the current issue of French cultural magazine 'Les Inrockuptibles' (cover: Leonardo DiCaprio) photo (thanks, Gilles)

Watch a one-minute trailer from the 'Making of L.A. Woman' film: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5noNsN3899Y&feature=youtu.be (thanks, Gilles)

Jim Morrison being interviewed backstage at the Isle of Wight can be listened to in this 15-minute clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8WUlJKN_Xc&feature=youtu.be It sounds like Joe Cocker was onstage when the interview started.  (thanks, Gilles)

Manzarek-Rogers Band plays Harrah's Tahoe South Shore in Stateline, NV tonight.  A preview profile story ran a few days ago in the Tahoe Daily Tribune:  http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20120112/NEWS/120119953/1058&parentprofile=1058

Manzarek-Krieger Band will play Rome on July 10, according to a venue's advertisement: http://www.palcotv.it/?Concerto-di-Ray-Manzarek-e-Robby-Krieger-DOORS-a-Roma-il-10-luglio-2012_16066  (thanks, Simone)

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 January 12, 2012     Experience Hendrix tour dates added <> SSSN opinion
Additional shows have been added to the Experience Hendrix 2012 tour, including a second date in Austin, TX.  The tour now extends through May 31 in Denver.  Robby Krieger is listed among the performers for six shows so far, ending with the first Austin show on May 24.  Most of the newly added dates do not yet include the roster of performers, so stay tuned to learn if Robby will be involved in additional shows.  For info on the tour dates and cities announced so far, go to: http://www.experiencehendrixtour.com/dates.php

A number of fans have written to ask my opinion of the 'She Smells So Nice' discovery.  (Most of the time) I try to avoid inserting my personal opinion into stories about releases, books, merchandise, etc., and just report the facts as I find them.  On the topic of SSSN, let me just 'say this about that' instead of continuing to individually respond to those who have inquired.  I guess there are strong feelings about SSSN in Doors fan-dom, and everyone is entitled to an opinion.  SSSN is not a song that I will listen to repeatedly.  It would never reach the status of Crystal Ship, LMF or LAW in my affections, not even if it were 'finished'.  That being said, I think it's cool and exciting that a Doors song that we have never even heard of before was discovered after all this time.  Regarding its quality ...  well, it was never represented as a finished track.  Should they have kept it a secret, and kept it to themselves, for that reason?  I see this one as a "no-win" situation for Doors management.  If they release a rough rehearsal track without 'cleaning it up', then fans complain about its audio quality.  On the other hand, if Botnick et al had managed to 'clean it up' to somehow present the song as more polished and listenable, then fans would complain about those alterations and lament for the pure, raw recording.  Like I said, it's a no-win for them.  Personally, I appreciate the opportunity to hear this forgotten song.

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 January 11, 2012    'She Smells So Nice' on Today Show <> new LAW video <> screening in Hollywood next week <> Robby's 10 Coolest Tracks 
'She Smells So Nice' was mentioned this morning on NBC's "Today" show.  At 1:05 in during a segment called 'What's Trending', the news was that this newly discovered song was trending in the Top Searches on Yahoo.  I saw it myself after being alerted by an east coast sister.  It was very cool to see The Doors get that mention, however brief.  (thanks, Bobbie)

Last weekend a new video for L.A. Woman was shot in and around Los Angeles and iconic Doors landmarks.  It is currently being edited and should be released within a few weeks.  I think you are going to like it.  Stay tuned.

As a reminder: "Mr Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman" will be screened in Hollywood next Friday, January 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the beautiful Egyptian Theater.  Jac Holzman will be on hand to present the film.  L.A. deejay legend Jim Ladd will take questions in a Q&A session following the film that will include Holzman and "special surprise guests".  This is a no-brainer for Doors fans in the greater L.A. area.  Tickets are available at: http://www.americancinemathequecalendar.com/egyptian_theatre_events?page=1  or at:   http://www.fandango.com/egyptiantheatre_aaofx/theaterpage?date=1/20/2012

In honor of Robby's birthday on Sunday, Gibson.com ran a Lifestyle feature on Robby and "His 10 Coolest Guitar Tracks".  Check it out at: http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/robby-krieger-birth-0106-2012/ (thanks, Gary)

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 January 9, 2012    'She Smells So Nice' <> Ray on SSSN
'She Smells So Nice' is now out there for the listening.  It sure rocks.  The song was released on The Doors' Facebook page about an hour ago.  It also debuted locally on L.A. radio station 100.3 The Sound at 9:20, although John Densmore was not on hand to discuss, as a fan had alerted me to.  If you missed it, you can hear it here: http://soundcloud.com/thedoors/she-smells-so-nice/s-L91KO (thanks, Gilles)

Ray Manzarek discusses 'She Smells So Nice' in this story at Complex.com ... check it out at: http://www.complex.com/music/2012/01/interview-the-doors-release-new-song-talk-about-jay-z-takeover

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 January 8, 2012    HB 2 RK
Happy birthday today to Robby. He'll be keeping busy in the spring as part of the Experience Hendrix 2012 tour which starts March 6 in Maryland.  It looks like Robby joins the tour on March 14 in Hollywood, FL.  For info on the tour dates and cities announced so far, go to: http://www.experiencehendrixtour.com/dates.php

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 January 7, 2012    'She Smells So Nice' <> logo design contest <> Morrison on cassettes <> LM2X on 'Californication' <> John on radio Monday a.m.
'She Smells So Nice' will be released on The Doors' Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/thedoors on Monday, January 9th.  This happens at 9:00 am PST, 12:00 noon EST.  This is big news and has been all over the internet the last few days in a plethora of related stories.  The song will then be released for radio station airplay the following day, Tuesday January 10th.  'She Smells So Nice' was first mentioned in November, when news of this song hit the inter-webs.  Bruce Botnick discovered it while reviewing the album's session tapes for the re-issue of LAW.  "The Doors  Mr. Mojo Risin':  The Making of L.A. Woman" DVD and Blu-Ray will be released from Rhino and Eagle Rock on January 24th, and gets a screening in Hollywood on January 20th at the Egyptian Theater along with special guests.  See January 4th news for more info about that.  Here is a few of the stories about this release:  http://ultimateclassicrock.com/the-doors-to-release-new-song-she-smells-so-nice-shortly/  and  http://www.hollywoodtoday.net/2012/01/05/the-year-of-the-doors-mr-mojos-40th-anniversary-l-a-woman-album-dvdblu-ray/ (thanks to Gilles, Chris, and Kyle)

A logo design contest has also been announced with a winning prize of $500. and an official Doors prize pack.  Here's the deal:  "Design an official logo for 'The Year Of The Doors' to celebrate a series of new releases in 2012 from The Doors.  Be inspired to create a logo that represents the band and incorporates the original Doors logo.  Develop a clean and simple logo design that is as iconic as the band itself." If you are creative, here's your chance to become part of Doors history:  http://creativeallies.com/contests/323-Design-A-Logo-For-The-Year-Of-The-Doors?utm_source=The%2BYear%2Bof%2BThe%2BDoors&utm_medium=Launch%2BLink&utm_campaign=The%2BYear%2BOf%2BThe%2BDoors%2BLogo%2BContest  (thanks, Roland)

Jim Morrison talking about the future of video cassettes in 1971 can be heard in this brief YouTube audio clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRhVwYSNNSw

Fans of the Showtime series 'Californication' starring David Duchovny will hear 'Love Me Two Times' re-mix as performed by Infected Mushroom during the opening sequence when Season 5 premieres on Sunday, January 8th.  The Venice Beach mural of Jim is used in the opening montage.  The link to the show's website is: http://www.sho.com/site/californication/episodes.sho?episodeid=139050 (thanks, Chris)

John Densmore will be on L.A. radio station 100.3 The Sound at 9:00 a.m. on Monday when "She Smells So Nice" gets premiered.  You can listen live on the station's website at: http://thesoundla.com/  (thanks, Kyle)

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 January 4, 2012    Doors docu to screen in Hollywood <> 1976 Pere Lachaise stories <> arsonist suicide watch <> Phil Trainer interview
"The Doors  Mr. Mojo Risin': The Making of L.A. Woman" will be screened on January 20 at 7:30 at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood.   Jim Ladd, Jac Holzman and other special guests TBD will participate in a discussion following.  Advance ticket purchases are available at:   http://www.americancinemathequecalendar.com/content/the-doors-mr-mojo-risin-the-making-of-la-woman-0  (thanks, Carl)

The website JimMorrisonsParis.com is running a story about three visitors to Jim's grave in Pere Lachaise in 1976.  Read it at: http://jimmorrisonsparis.com/2012/01/03/three-stories-from-a-visit-to-jims-grave-in-1976/  (thanks, Gilles)

The S.O.B. who is under arrest for starting 50+ arson fires in the L.A. area, including the "Love Street" house, is now under suicide watch.  I think they should stop watching.

Phil Trainer, who knew Jim Morrison in Paris, is interviewed in a Spanish magazine: http://revistagentecolombia.com/2011/07/15/los-ultimos-dias-de-jim-morrison/ (thanks, Gilles)

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 January 3, 2012    Love Street arson arrest <> Doors in French Rolling Stone <> Robby & Doors on Jeopardy <> Mikulin's bust of Morrison
A 'person of interest' who was detained in connection with the dozens of arson fires in the Hollywood and greater L.A. area within the last week, has been promoted to 'suspect' and placed under arrest.  The 24 year old German national is being held without bail and is scheduled for arraignment tomorrow, charged with starting 53 fires between December 30 and January 2 including the beloved 'Love Street' house in Laurel Canyon.                    

The Doors get 8 pages in the January issue of France's Rolling Stone (cover: Jimmy Page).  (thanks, Gilles)

"Who are The Doors?" was an answer on the December 23rd episode of  TV show 'Jeopardy'.  Under the category "The Dreidel Will Rock" (Jewish rock stars), the clue was "Robbie Krieger penned 'Light My Fire' for this 60's rock group'.  Other answers included David Lee Roth, Gene Simmons, and Lou Reed.  (thanks, Mark)

On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Jim Morrison's death and the 30th anniversary of placing of Morrison's marble bust (by Croatian academic sculptor M. Mikulin) on his grave in Paris, the photo-monograph “Mladen Mikulin – the Portraitist of Jim Morrison” was published in December 2011 (Croatian/English, 44 pages, very limited edition).   For the first time, inside is publicly presented “The Death Mask of Jim Morrison” which was made in bronze by M. Mikulin in 2001. Only 200 copies of the booklet will be available for Morrison’s and Mikulin’s fans world-wide, starting from January 15, 2012. The public presentation of the booklet will be organized in the Zagreb City Museum, Croatia, on January 27, 2012.  The visitors of the Zagreb City Museum can see Mikulin’s unfinished plaster bust of Jim Morrison (from 1991) as a special addition to the exhibition entitled “Mors porta vitae – Death the Gate of Life / Old Zagreb Cemeteries and Funerals”. That sculpture was originally intended to be cast in bronze as the replacement for the original marble bust, stolen in May of 1988.  Contact for the booklet (starting from January 15, 2012) is: meluksic@yahoo.com http://www.mgz.hr/en/home/ (thanks, Mislav)

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 January 1, 2012    Love Street arson story
What a terrible story to lead off the new year.  This link from NECN.com includes aerial footage showing the fire damage to the roof, as well as interview with the artisan who re-modeled the building for the current owner:  http://www.necn.com/01/01/12/Arsonist-lights-Jim-Morrisons-house-on-f/landing_arts.html?blockID=622664&feedID=4214  There were more fires set last night in the greater L.A. area, and the arsonist(s) are still at large.

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 December 30, 2011    Love Street hit by arson <> February's Love Street visit
The hallowed house on Rothdell Trail in Laurel Canyon, known familiarly to all of us as the house on Love Street, was damaged by arson fire overnight.  This is unbelievable!  Thankfully, the entire building is not a loss, although the front sustained damage.  Read the LA Times story at: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/12/hollywood-arsons-jim-morrison-love-street-home.html

In February of this year I spent a wonderful afternoon at Love Street at the invitation of current owner Matt.  This morning's near-tragic arson fire makes me want to re-share that day.  Here is a link to the story and photos I shared at that time: http://idafan.com/rothdell_trail-lovest.htm

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 December 28, 2011    Doors merch end-of-year sale <> cancellation of 5-disc LAW
The Doors official webstore is having an end-of-year sale and offering 20% off your order at check-out.  Some standard exclusions apply, such as media, sale/outlet items, dropships, bundles, gift certificates and shipping fees.  If in doubt, add an item to your cart to find out if the discount is allowed.  For more info, go to: http://thedoors.shop.bravadousa.com/?src=BRVO116196_2921

The recently announced cancellation of the planned 5-disc Super Deluxe L.A. Woman release got a write-up on UltimateClassicRock.com:  http://ultimateclassicrock.com/doors-five-disc-super-deluxe-edition-of-l-a-woman-cancelled/

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 December 27, 2011    BBC radio show <> docu showed in Oregon <> Greil Marcus review <> more on BBC radio show
'Suzi Quatro In Search Of - Jim Morrison' is a radio program which airs on BBC Radio 2 between 8-10 p.m. tomorrow.  Suzi travels from CA to Paris and talks to Ray Manzarek, Alice Cooper, Paul Ferrara, Jeff Jampol, and Bruce Botnick.  I do not see a link where this show can be listened to on-line.  For more info: http://www.radiotimes.com/episode/n4gfj/suzi-quatro-in-search-of---jim-morrison (thanks, Gilles) 

'The Doors  Mr Mojo Risin' documentary that we are all awaiting the release of in January, was apparently screened in October as part of the Northwest Film Center's Reel Music 29 festival at the Mission Theater.   Here is the story about it: http://oregonmusicnews.com/tag/jim-morrison/ (thanks, Gilles) 

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus was reviewed in the Washington Post by Chris Richards last week.  Read this one at: http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/the-doors-a-lifetime-of-listening-to-five-mean-years-by-greil-marcus/2011/12/15/gIQAUKiDEP_story.html

The 'Suzi Quatro In Search Of - Jim Morrison' BBC Radio 2 radio program mentioned earlier today, can be listened to on-line by going to:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/  and click on Listen Live.  Easy!  Thanks to John S. from PA for tracking this down and sending the info.  If it starts at 8:00 p.m. Wednesday (December 28) in the U.K., then we should be able to listen live in the USA on Wednesday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. (EST) and 12:00 noon (PST).  (thanks, John)

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 December 24, 2011    Morrison family Xmas card
Many years ago I acquired a Christmas card sent by the Morrison family.  The front of the card indicates that Mr. Morrison was stationed at the United States Naval Air Station at Moffett Field in Sunnyvale, CA at the time.  The inside of the card is signed:  Clara, Steve, Jimmy and Anne. photo   I believe that Anne was born in 1947 and Andy in 1948, so therefore that would date this card as Christmas 1947.  photo: card front

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 December 23, 2011   LAW 40th merch <> Robby's Rick Turner <> Roy Rogers in Napa <> Doors 'art' <> coming attraction
The Doors L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary merchandise offers include new t-shirt designs, a variation on the traditional deep red color.  Various pre-orders are available including some bundles.  Check it all out at: http://thedoors.shop.bravadousa.com/Dept.aspx?cp=41800_50796&sort=&page=0&src=NEWS116136

Robby Krieger plays a custom Rick Turner guitar when he performs Spanish Caravan.  Someone posted on the GuitarsCanada.com website forum about how Robby came to use that particular instrument: http://www.guitarscanada.com/electric-guitar/45505-how-robbie-krieger-doors-ended-up-buying-renaissance-guitar.html

Ray Manzarek collaborator Roy Rogers & his long-time band the Delta River Kings are scheduled to play the Napa Valley Opera House on Friday, January 6. Ray is not part of the show's billing, but since Napa IS where he and Dorothy live these days, I'm willing to bet there is a good chance that a 'special guest' will pop into that show.  http://www.starkinsider.com/2011/12/multi-grammy-nominee-roy-rogers-the-delta-rhythm-kings-to-perform-at-napa-valley-opera-house.html

Check out this website with loads of photos of Doors & Morrison tattoos (yikes) plus some miscellaneous stuff:  http://thedoors.tumblr.com/ (thanks, Gilles) 

Tomorrow I'll share photos of a Morrison family Christmas rarity.

 December 22, 2011    Pam's birthday
Pamela Courson Morrison would have turned 65 today.  She missed out on so much. This is one of my fave photos of Jim and Pam together (photo credit unknown).  photo

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 December 21, 2011    Ray & Dorothy celebrate 44
Ray and Dorothy Manzarek celebrate their 44th wedding anniversary today.  Jim and Pam were their witnesses on December 21, 1967 at the L.A. County Courthouse.  Congratulations to Ray and Dorothy.  Here is a pic of the happy couple at a 1998 book signing in Santa Monica.  photo

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 December 20, 2011    Barry Fey book <> MOJO 60's issue
Did Jim Morrison really inhale fumes from a vat of floor wax?  To learn the answer to that essential question, check out a new book from Denver concert promoter Barry Fey called 'Backstage Past.'  There is a story plus a 4-1/2 minute interview clip with him at: http://www.9news.com/rss/story.aspx?storyid=236993  (the answer to that question is NOT revealed in the clip).

MOJO Magazine has a special 'MOJO 60's" issue out now (cover: Nick Drake).  One of the features is called '67 Psychedelic Trips' and lists various and sundry songs that they deem belong on that list.  Coming in at #15 is my personal fave "Crystal Ship":  Still the most understated and thus persuasive song from the group's infamous first album.  With images of parting, madness, surrender and death, The Doors set sail for unchartered waters, taking their audience with them.  Just so you didn't forget that they came from L.A., the west coast's media centre, Jim Morrison delivered some great soundbites: 'I'd rather fly ... another flashing chance at bliss ... deliver me from reasons why.

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 December 18, 2011    Ray & Robby in Chicago <>  Doors photos+
Manzarek-Krieger Band played Chicago's Congress Theater last month.  ChicagoJamScene.com ran a write-up about the show that just rolled in: http://www.chicagojamscene.com/2011/12/111311-robby-krieger-and-ray-manzerek.html

Lots of Doors photos are for sale on the website TheRockAndRollEmporium.com, as well as posters and miscellaneous. Search on both Jim Morrison and The Doors.  They have oodles of stuff on other bands, too. http://www.therockandrollemporium.com/Shop-by-Band-s/1959.htm.  According to the email I got, use coupon code 2011HH at checkout and receive 20% off your entire order.  I do not know how long that offer is good for.

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 December 16, 2011    Experience Hendrix 2012 tour <> DVD trailer <> Doors-Danzig mash-up
Robby Krieger and the Experience Hendrix 2012 Tribute Tour are coming up in a lot of media stories.  Here is another one: http://www.soundspike.com/story/3481/buddy-guy-dweezil-zappa-robbie-krieger-helm-experience-hendrix/

Watch the 90-second trailer for the forthcoming DVD and Blu-Ray release, 'Mr. Mojo Risin' - The Story of L.A. Woman': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMovI131FgU&feature=g-all-u&context=G1c2a8FAAAAAAAABAA  (thanks, Gilles)

A mash-up of 'Light My Fire' and Glen Danzig's 'Mother' has been making the rounds recently.  Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_hGYjKKbhs.   My fave Doors mash-up remains 'Sanctuary's Over, a mash-up of WTMO and The Cult's '(She Sells) Sanctuary':  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6srbS_oUdA

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 December 15, 2011    Robby on Experience Hendrix 2012 tour
Robby Krieger will be a part of the 'Experience Hendrix 2012 Tribute Tour'.  The tour dates have been published on the website at: http://www.experiencehendrixtour.com/dates.php.  The complete roster of musicians has been announced for only a few of the shows so far on the official website, but so far Robby is listed for all the announced shows according to JamBase.com (which are not yet reflected on the official site).  Those may be subject to change and more will probably be added.  The info so far is included in the calendar on the home page.

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 December 14, 2011    Ray interview <> Jampol on 40th LAW releases <> Greil Marcus interview
Manzarek-Rogers Band perform tonight at Belly Up in Solana Beach, CA.  Ray was interviewed by Scott McDonald for NBCSanDiego.com.  Please note that the Viper Room show in L.A. that Ray references has since been canceled.  Read story at: http://www.nbcsandiego.com/blogs/sounddiego/Roadhouse-Blues-for-the-ManzarekRogers-Band-135585463.html

The Doors manager Jeff Jampol recently posted some updated information regarding the forthcoming L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary releases on The Doors forums.  Instead of paraphrasing, you can read that announcement here.  If you want to read the announcement and subsequent comments and discussion on-line, catch up with message #768 at: http://www.thedoors.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21343&st=760  (thanks, Gilles)

Another Greil Marcus interview about his book 'The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years', this one with Eric Been, runs at The Atlantic.  Read it at: http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2011/12/greil-marcus-on-why-the-doors-still-matter/249697/  (thanks, Kyle)

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 December 12, 2011    Ray & Roy show added <> 'You Make Me Real' sources
Manzarek-Rogers Band has announced a show at Paradise Performing Arts Center in Paradise, CA on Friday, February 17th.  The venue website is: http://www.paradiseperformingarts.com/

Here are two more sources to order 'You Make Me Real', the English version of 'Contigo Me Real' by Portugese author Rui Pedro Silva:  http://www.bookmasters.com/marktplc/03330.htm  and  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/you-make-me-real-rui-pedro-silva/1103871444?ean=9789723610352&itm=1&usri=9789723610352

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 December 10, 2011    Roy Rogers interview <> Venice Beach mural <> Greil Marcus podcast
Manzarek-Rogers Band plays Belly Up in Solana Beach on December 14.  An advance interview with Roy Rogers about his collaboration with Ray (and other stuff) can be found at: http://www.nctimes.com/entertainment/music/rogers-cd-tour-with-manzarek-a-natural-extension-of-career/article_0a725a12-4371-5a40-9f0d-1d8d746162d5.html

The Jim Morrison mural in Venice Beach is columnist Bob Patterson's clever way to draw new readers to his column on OpEdNews.com.  Some photos are included, so check it out at: http://www.opednews.com/articles/Visiting-the-Jim-Morrison-by-Bob-Patterson-111210-947.html

A Greil Marcus 30-minute podcast interview on wnyc.org can be found at:  http://www.wnyc.org/shows/soundcheck/2011/dec/09/greil-marcus-doors/  (thanks, Kyle)

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 December 9, 2011    Ray & Roy show canceled <> Ray & Roy to Stateline, NV
Manzarek-Rogers Band were scheduled to play L.A.'s Viper Room a week from tonight, December 16.  I have received notice from TicketWeb that the show is canceled.  The December 14th show at Belly Up in Solana Beach, CA is still a go.

Manzarek-Rogers Band has announced a show at Harrah's Tahoe South Shore in Stateline, NV on Saturday, January 14.  Venue website is: http://www.harrahslaketahoe.com/casinos/harrahs-lake-tahoe/casino-misc/south-shore-room-detail.html

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 December 8, 2011    HB 2 Jim <> Morrison birth announcement
How fortunate we are that Jim Morrison was born on this date 68 years ago.  He touched the lives of each and every one of you who visit, support, and contribute to this website.  He sure touched my life.

I've decided to share one of my Morrison rarities today.  I purchased this announcement of Jim's birth on eBay many years ago.  The actual item is stored in a bank box and not at my fingertips so I can't provide all the back story from the seller, but if memory serves, the seller was acting on behalf of a Morrison family member from Florida.  These birth announcements were sent out sometime in January 1944.  It is a two-piece item; the birth announcement is tied to the larger card under it with a light blue ribbon.  I have never removed the ribbon to separate the two cards, hence the awkward photo that I took many years ago before putting this artifact into safe storage.  photo

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 December 7, 2011     Ray interview on Gibson <> vintage photos exhibit <> 'You Make Me Real' <> Greil Marcus review <> Glen Campbell reminisces about The Doors
A Ray Manzarek interview appears today on the Gibson website in their Lifestyle section.  Read it at: http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/ray-manzarek-doors-1207-2011/

Photographer Tom G. O'Neal left the rock scene in the mid-1970's and 'pretty much got out of the loop,' but he left piles of proof sheets unexamined for years.  His rare rock images will be on view at Mountainsong Galleries in Carmel, CA from December 3 through January 30.  The following story includes a photo of Jim Morrison in rehearsal for 'The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour' in December 1968, along with a slide show of more vintage photos: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/object/article?f=/g/a/2011/11/30/rock_photography_carmel.DTL&object=/c/pictures/2011/11/29/ba-Central_Coast_0504647213.jpg   Here is a direct link to the gallery's exhibit: http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com/searchresults.php?page=all&category=Historic%20Rock%20n%20Roll%20Photography&medium=Jim%20Morrison (thanks, Gilles)

'You Make Me Real' by Rui Pedro Silva is available in English from Amazon.com at: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss/180-8682957-3086615?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=you+make+me+real+rui+silva&x=0&y=0.  I think it's also available through Barnes & Noble, but I cannot find a listing for it right now. 

Another review of the Greil Marcus book 'The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years' by Christopher J. Lee appears on PopMatters.com at: http://www.popmatters.com/pm/column/151783-when-the-musics-over-greil-marcus-on-the-doors/.  Another one by Stephanie DeBalko appears on TheWeekender.com at: http://www.theweekender.com/books/The_Doors__reopened_12-06-2011.html

Glen Campbell shared the bill with The Doors a few times.  Sounds like it's not one of his fave memories: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfP24IajV8M (thanks, Gilles)

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 December 5, 2011     Robby on GuitarShopTV  <> Belgium TV show
Robby Krieger is featured on GuitarShopTV in a 20-minute segment that originated in late October.  It begins with Jim Henke of Cleveland's Rock Hall discussing some personal Jim Morrison and family artifacts that appear to be on display.  Maybe it's a permanent installation.  Anyway, then Robby comes on and discusses how he came to use Gibson guitars and the models he prefers.  The segments finishes up with a clip of Robby performing at NYC's Iridium Jazz Club in October 2010, with Evan Marshall on vocals singing 'Roadhouse Blues'.  Check it all out at: http://blip.tv/guitar-shop-tv/gstv-episode-nine-the-doors-5692347

'The Doors  Mr Mojo Risin' program that was shown on Belgium television on Sunday, does indeed seem to be the January 2012 DVD release.  The fan who saw it reports that it featured Jim Ladd, Frank Lisciandro, David Fricke (Rolling Stone), Jac Holzman, and Bruce Botnick.  John, Robby and Ray talked about the different tracks on the album, how they were made and what they meant to them.  There were images from recording studios, LA, Paris, and Jim and Pam.  (thanks, Ronald)

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 December 4, 2011     Ray & Robby writing songs for film
Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger are going to be writing songs for 'Manson Girls', a new film project from producer Susanna Lo.  The film will focus on the period leading up to the 1969 murders of nine people in the L.A. area during summer 1969, for which Charles Manson and his followers were convicted.  Lo told Variety that she aims to illustrate how and why the girls came under Manson's command.  Read more about this at:  http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118046370?refCatId=13

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 December 3, 2011    Henry Diltz signing in NYC this weekend <> Monterey Pop book <> Skrillex <> Julien's Auctions results 
Photographer Henry Diltz is doing signings today and tomorrow (Sunday) at Morrison Hotel Gallery in New York City of his new black & white photo book, 'Unpainted Faces.'  This happens both days between 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the gallery in SoHo:  https://www.morrisonhotelgallery.com/post/default.aspx?postID=165  (thanks, Matthew & Connie).  In a related story link on the Morrison Hotel Gallery's website, last month there was a 10-minute program on PBS about the gallery and rock photographers.  You can see that at: http://www.thirteen.org/sundayarts/video/morrison-hotel-gallery/1944/

Music journalist Harvey Kubernik's latest effort 'A Perfect Haze - The Illustrated History of the Monterey International Pop Festival' is an amazing collection of performance and behind-the-scenes photos, recollections and reviews about that landmark event.  For anyone who was there, or wishes they were ... this book is really a must-have, as it is the official history and was given support by festival producer Lou Adler and the Monterey International Pop Festival Foundation.  The KFRC Fantasy Faire and Magic Mountain Music Festival at Mt. Tamalpais in Mill Valley, CA the weekend before is also documented as a lesser-known but nevertheless important lead-in to the Monterey Pop.  Ray Manzarek contributed to that chapter called 'Sitting on Top of Mt. Tam', which contains several unpublished photos of The Doors at that festival.  Here is a story about the book: http://www.santamonicapress.com/index.php?page_name=perfecthaze&page_type=book&show=desc&hide0=excerpt&hide1=author&hide2=reviews&hide5=number5  which is available through Amazon.com at: http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Haze-Illustrated-Monterey-International/dp/1595800603/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319920980&sr=8-1.

Skrillex and his five Grammy nominations are getting a lot of air ink.  Here is an Associated Press story about him by Mesfin Fekadu: http://news.yahoo.com/grammy-surprise-whos-name-skrillex-132052652.html

Julien's Auctions in Beverly Hills held their auction earlier today of celebrity items from the worlds of sports, film and music.   On November 30th I wrote about the Doors related items included on the auction block.  Believe it or not, that ten-foot 'Light My Fire' art guitar that was designed to honor The Doors and hung on the wall over the Whisky-a-go-go this past year, sold for a jaw-dropping $16,250.  The pre-auction estimate indicated $3,000 - $5,000: https://www.julienslive.com/view-auctions/catalog/id/37/lot/11964/  Holy mackerel!   No other art guitar in this auction came even close to matching that closing bid.  See what the other 10-foot guitars sold for at: https://www.julienslive.com/view-auctions/catalog/id/37/?page=10&xclosed=no.   I hope that whoever bought this work of art will share it.  There were two other Doors-related items also on auction.  An RIAA gold record for LMF was estimated to go for $4,000 - $6,000 but sold for only $2,650: https://www.julienslive.com/view-auctions/catalog/id/37/lot/12115/.   On the other hand, a Family Dog concert poster of FD#18 Spaceman was estimated to go for $50 to $100, and sold for $1,664: https://www.julienslive.com/view-auctions/catalog/id/37/lot/12116/.  You just never know! 

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 December 2, 2011     Hard Rock in Paris <> 2012 calendar <> Greil Marcus review <> Skrillex Grammy noms
Hard Rock Cafe in Paris, France displays a framed set of 1970 Isle of Wight festival tickets: photo   In an upstairs room and partially hidden behind a Xmas tree, are two framed photos of the band: photo

The 2012 Doors calendar that came to my attention thanks to many helpful readers, is also available through Amazon.co.uk: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Music-Rock-Calendars-Exclusive-30x30cm/dp/B005JFXK6W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322848876&sr=8-1   Check yesterday's story for the other sources for this calendar.  (thanks, Nial)

Author Greil Marcus caught some more press about his new book release on The Doors ... this time, the review is from Camille Paglia of New York Times in the Sunday Book Review section.  Read this one at:  http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/04/books/review/the-doors-a-lifetime-of-listening-to-five-mean-years-by-greil-marcus-book-review.html

'Dance artist' Skrillex got a Grammy nomination in the Best New Artist category during last night's announcements.  Actually, I think he received a total of five nominations.  In the following story, Skrillex remarked "it'd be cool to do something with The Doors" when discussing a chance to do a duets type of performance during the Grammy Awards show.  Read the full story at: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/artists-respond-to-grammy-nominations-20111201?utm_source=dailynewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter

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 December 1, 2011     HB 2 John <> belated HB to Owen <> podcast about Jim & Pam <> Teske exhibit <> 2012 calendar? <> Doors special on Belgium TV <> 2012 calendar found!
John Densmore celebrates his 67th birthday today.  Happy birthday, John.

A belated birthday shout-out to Owen Goldman, drum tech and one of the tour managers with Manzarek-Krieger.  Owen, who celebrated his on November 26, can often be seen & heard joining in on percussion on songs such as Soft Parade and Light My Fire.

A recent podcast on a show called Gutwrench interviewed Raeanne Bartlett and Alix Chavasse, fans who are currently researching and writing a book that explores the Jim & Pam relationship.  The podcast is lengthy and I have not listened to all of it, but the interview starts about 10 minutes in. You can check it out at: http://gutwrench.podomatic.com/entry/2011-11-21T21_28_31-08_00. (thanks, Gilles)

The Edmund Teske photo exhibit which opens this weekend at the Craig Krull Gallery in Santa Monica, got another write-up at:  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/27/edmund-teske-jim-morrison_n_1115655.html.  The exhibit runs through January 14, 2012.

Has anyone found a 2012 calendar featuring The Doors???  After many years without, there was finally a  2011 calendar but I'm coming up empty for 2012.  Please write and let me know if you have found one.

'The Doors  Mr Mojo Risin' gets shown on Belgium television at 20:45 on Sunday (Zondag), according to this website link: http://canvas.be/extra/html/vandaag/page_vandaag_dezeweek.shtml  I am as confused about this as the fan who shared the TV listing info for this 60-minute program, and have no idea if this has the same content as the January 2012 DVD release.  (thanks, Marc)

This website has the BEST readers and contributors!  About ten hours ago I put out a call for anyone with knowledge of a 2012 Doors calendar, and heard back from several fans already who directed me (and us) to a website called StickItOnYourWall.com: http://stickitonyourwall.com/the-doors-12-month.html.   I had problems with the check-out function on that site, but the seller is also listing the calendar through eBay which may be easier: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Doors-12-Month-2012-Calendar-30x30cm-/220877167770  (thanks to Brad, Gary, Matthew and Ollie) 

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 November 30, 2011     Julien's Auctions <> Wall Street Journal review
Julien's Auctions in Beverly Hills will auction off the ten-foot 'art guitars' that have adorned Sunset Strip and environs for the last year.  The Gibson GuitarTown Charity Auctions take place this Saturday, December 3 at 2:00 p.m. live and on-line, and will support the Los Angeles Youth Network, West Hollywood Arts & Cultural Commission, and the West Hollywood Library.  Included in the lot is a 'Light My Fire' mosaic tiled guitar created by Robin Bott, which had been on display over the entrance canopy at the Whisky-a-go-go. photo.  To learn more about the Gibson GuitarTown Charity Auctions, go to: http://www.juliensauctions.com/auctions/2011/icons-and-idols-rock/sunset-strip-guitartown-auction.html   To see the Doors items on auction, check out  page103  and  page192.

Wall Street Journal's Arts & Entertainment blog by Jon Friedman discussed The Doors and the Greil Marcus book yesterday.  Read that at: http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2011/11/29/why-have-the-doors-remained-so-popular/?mod=google_news_blog (thanks, Kyle)

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 November 26, 2011    'She Smells So Nice' <> John on Fallon parody <> Ray & Robby Chicago set list <> Ray & Roy on the blues <> Robby guitar in benefit auction <> Hard Rock Cafe in London <> Teske photo exhibit <> Greil Marcus book review <> Hard Rock Cafe in Paris <> James Lee Stanley tour dates <> lounge music tribute CD <> Rock & Reilly's
'She Smells So Nice', the recently discovered original track from the L.A. Woman recording sessions which gets a January 24th release, got mentioned in Rolling Stone with a 31-second preview audio clip.  Check that out at: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/exclusive-preview-newly-unearthed-doors-track-she-smells-so-nice-20111117  (thanks, Kyle)

John Densmore's assistant Traci Odom posted a comment on November 16 on behalf of John on Jimmy Fallon's website blog regarding Fallon's spot-on impersonation of Morrison on the Ed Sullivan show performing LeVar Burton's 'Reading Rainbow'.  The comment text is:  Jimmy, I am Traci Odom, John Densmore's assistant. He has a message for you: In the press I've always said that no one could fill Jim's shoes (except Eddie Vedder who sang with us when we were inducted into the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame). I've changed my mind. This late night Jimmy dude can even fill Morrison's leather pants! I've got a book coming out next year and hope to be a guest. Now I know to bring my hair dye and my fake mutton chop sideburns, and we'll go back into time. John Densmore.  The comment (and others) can be found at: http://www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/blogs/2011/11/the-doors-sing-reading-rainbow-theme/  (thanks, James)

Manzarek-Krieger played Chicago's Congress Theater on Sunday, November 13.  The set list that night was:  Roadhouse Blues;  Break On Through;  Strange Days;  Crystal Ship;  Changeling;  Waiting For The Sun;  Soft Parade;  Back Door Man;  Crawling King Snake;  Not To Touch The Earth;  Touch Me;  Five To One;  L.A. Woman;  Light My Fire.  (thanks, Dave & Wal)

Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers can be seen talking about the blues in a 3-minute video from TheBluesMobileVideo.com.  Check that out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoookYFS0ZY

A Robby Krieger-signed Fender guitar is on auction sponsored by ClassicRockersNetwork and SiriusXM through CharityBuzz.com to fight hunger through the benefit Hungerthon. As of this update, there have been 7 bids placed so far.  The auction ends at 6:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday, November 30.  Check it out at:  http://www.charitybuzz.com/auctions/whyhunger/catalog_items/285233

Hard Rock Cafe in London has two Doors artifacts on display:  a Jim Morrison tie-dyed shirt photo and a RIAA 'Waiting For The Sun' gold record presented to Elektra photo.

Edmund Teske's photographs will be exhibited at the Craig Krull Gallery at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica, CA starting with a reception on December 3.  The exhibit runs through January 14.  For a sampling of Teske's photos (which include his famous shots of Jim and Pam at L.A.'s Bronson Caves), go to:  http://www.craigkrullgallery.com/Teske/index.html (thanks, Joann)

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus was reviewed in the L.A. Times on November 22 by Steve Zeitchik:  http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-et-book-greil-marcus-20111122,0,4373677.story?track=rss (thanks, George)

Hard Rock Cafe in Paris, France prominently displays a signed Robby Krieger Gibson guitar just inside the entrance.  photo  Above the guitar is a Henry Diltz photo of the band at the 'original' Hard Rock that contains a Jim Morrison signature.  photo <> photo

James Lee Stanley and Cliff Eberhardt (of 'All Wood and Doors' http://www.allwoodanddoors.com/story.html) have announced tour dates in California and Arizona over the next few weeks.  Check those out at: http://www.allwoodanddoors.com/appearing.html

"We ♥ The Doors  A Lounge Tribute to The Doors" is a lounge-style treatment of Doors songs by an artist or band identified as All 4 Love on the tracks.  It can be sampled or ordered at EMusic.com at: http://www.emusic.com/listen/#/album/-/-/12791629/ (thanks, Simone)

Rock & Reilly's is the Irish pub that opened on the Sunset Strip at 11:11 on November 11th in the space once occupied by the London Fog.  I shared a story about that on November 10.  Here is another:  http://www.hauteliving.com/2011/11/rock-reilly-opens-on-the-sunset-strip/

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 November 25, 2011     I'm back! <> Ray & Roy in Oakland <> Robby on RS Top 100 list <> newly discovered song on DVD / Blu-Ray release <> Fallon's parody <> Greil Marcus book review
I'm back from my extended break.  I'll be doing catch-up for the next few days, sometimes updating several times daily as I plow through the messages, stories and links.  I will also be sharing some photos.

Manzarek-Rogers Band returns to Yoshi's in Oakland, CA on Friday, January 13.  For more info, go to:  http://www.yoshis.com/oakland/jazzclub/artist/show/2253

Robby Krieger has once again deservedly made the Rolling Stone list of '100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time', landing at #76 on this year's list: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/100-greatest-guitarists-20111123/robby-krieger-19691231.  Robby is also listed as one of the many voters who participated in the survey:  http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/100-greatest-guitarists-20111123?utm_source=dailynewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter.

The forthcoming DVD / Blu-Ray 'Mr. Mojo Risin' which gets released on January 24 will include a newly discovered original song called 'She Smells So Nice' from the L.A. Woman recording sessions.  Read about the full track listings from the DVD as well as the 40th Anniversary CD releases:  http://www.antimusic.com/news/11/nov/23The_Doors_Mr_Mojo_Risin_DVD_and_Blu-Ray_Coming.shtml

Jimmy Fallon's parody on November 11 of Jim Morrison on the Ed Sullivan show continues to have legs.  Jimmy Fallon was a guest on Jay Leno's show on November 17, and they showed an excerpt and talked about it.  Jimmy explained that they used three skinny writers from the staff to play Ray, Robby and John performing 'Reading Rainbow', while the music was actually being played by The Roots, his show's house band.  Again, if you missed the Fallon performance, check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gunlBUan8Y

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus was reviewed by David M. Kinchen on HuntingtonNews.net at: http://www.huntingtonnews.net/14155.

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 November 15, 2011     Ray & Robby pix from Chicago <> Greil Marcus book review <> Morrison's pardon <> break time
Manzarek-Krieger Band played Congress Theater in Chicago on Sunday night.  Check out a slideshow of photos from the gig: http://www.examiner.com/classic-rock-in-chicago/ray-manzarek-and-robbie-krieger-of-the-doors-at-the-congress-theater-picture

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus got quite a review by NYTimes.com today.  Read it at:  http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/16/books/the-doors-by-greil-marcus-review.html

Jim Morrison was pardoned almost a year ago, in December 2010.  There is a new website about the pardon from Dave Diamond.  Check it out at:  http://jimmorrisonpardon.com/ (thanks, Dave)

Taking a break!  Site updates will be scarce for the next week to 10 days.  I'll be back full-steam on or about November 25. 

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 November 14, 2011    Billboard.com news <> Ray & Robby in Detroit <> Ray & Robby in Grand Rapids <> Greil Marcus <> Pere Lachaise <> Morrison & Morrisey parody <> Ray & Robby in Chicago
The forthcoming L.A. Woman Anniversary re-issues, the 'Year Of The Doors', the special 'Black Friday' release, and the Skrillex project all got coverage in a story on Billboard.com last week.  Check it out at:  http://www.billboard.com/news/the-doors-prep-l-a-woman-reissue-with-amazing-1005511562.story#/news/the-doors-prep-l-a-woman-reissue-with-amazing-1005511562.story (thanks, Kyle)

Manzarek-Krieger Band played Detroit Fillmore on Friday night.  Two lucky fans who were there sent their recaps of the set, which ran from 8:18 until 10:24 (again, love the precise reporting I'm getting lately   LOL) and are combined following.  Here is the set list: Roadhouse Blues;  Break On Through (with Dead cats, dead rats);  Changeling;  Peace Frog;  Blue Sunday;  Love Me Two Times;  When The Music's Over (Ray dedicated it to James Douglas Morrison);  band intros;  Alabama Song;  Back Door Man (Rick Manczarek on 2nd guitar);  Touch Me;  Not To Touch The Earth;  Riders On The Storm;  L.A. Woman.  Encore #1: Indian Summer;  Light My Fire (solos by Phil Chen on bass and Ty Dennis on drums; Ray & Rick on percussion instruments).  Encore #2:  Soul Kitchen.  (thanks, Nate & Matt) The show also got a really nice write-up by a local reviewer: http://theoaklandpress.com/articles/2011/11/12/entertainment/doc4ebe91214260d773263743.txt               Here are a few YouTube videos from the show:  LM2X: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kov_SY7JzqA BDM: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9DibWRVXJU

Manzarek-Krieger Band played the Orbit Room in Grand Rapids, Michigan on Saturday night.  One of the lucky fans who reported on Detroit's show was also there and provided this set list: Roadhouse Blues;  Break On Through (with Dead cats, dead rats);  Strange Days;  Crystal Ship;  Waiting For The Sun (dedicated to Jim Morrison);  Changeling;  Soft Parade;  Back Door Man with Crawling King Snake (Rick Manczarek on 2nd guitar);  Not To Touch The Earth;  Touch Me;  L.A. Woman.  Encore #1:  When The Music's Over   Encore #2:  Light My Fire, a full-band jam.  (thanks, Matt)

Author Greil Marcus discussed The Doors and his book "The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" on a Boston NPR station last week.  Check it out at: http://onpoint.wbur.org/2011/11/02/the-doors (thanks, Kyle)

If you ever considered being buried in Pere Lachaise to be near Jim Morrison, here are some things you should know:  http://www.connexionfrance.com/pere-lachaise-cemetery-busiest-graveyard-world-11579-news-article.html

Speaking of parodies ... here is an odd combo of Morrison and Morrissey.  Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygU7UICqW2A&feature=related  (thanks, Christopher)   If you just crawled out of a cave and have not seen the parody of Jim Morrison on Friday night's Jimmy Fallon show, check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gunlBUan8Y

Manzarek-Krieger Band played Congress Theater in Chicago last night.  The show got a great review by a Chicago Classic Rock Examiner columnist.  Read it at: http://www.examiner.com/classic-rock-in-chicago/ray-manzarek-and-robbie-krieger-of-the-doors-at-the-congress-theater-review-review

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 November 12, 2011     Morrison & Doors parody on Fallon 
Jim Morrison and The Doors got the Jimmy Fallon parody treatment last night on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon.  That show is must-see (or, must-DVR) TV for me.  Fallon has been making a name for himself with his spot-on musical parodies, and this one did not disappoint.  The set was copied from the Ed Sullivan appearance with the backdrop of doors, and the band members are all accurately represented.  Later in the show when Chris Martin of Coldplay is in the chair, he remarked on the Morrison impression and said Jimmy could 'actually get the gig' with the other three Doors.  See the performance at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gunlBUan8Y

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 November 11, 2011     Jim referenced in India film 
Jim Morrison is the inspiration for the lead character in a movie from India titled Rockstar.  Apparently the young man dreams of being a rock star like Jim.  Read about it at: http://www.siliconindia.com/shownews/Rockstar_Ranbir_Makes_it_Big_at_Box_Office-nid-97391-cid-29.html

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 November 10, 2011    Ray & Robby in Albany <> Greil Marcus book discussed <> former London Fog <> Murray Lerner appearance
Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger performed at the Kitty Carlisle Hart Theatre at The Egg in Albany, New York last night.  Lucky Fan Dave has attended three shows on the current tour, and decided to go for a fourth.  Dave reports that this weeknight audience was a lower-energy crowd than the first three shows he saw.  Set list: Roadhouse Blues;  Break On Through (with Dead cat, dead rats);  Changeling (with Chain of Fools, Mojo Workin', and Sunshine of Your Love);  Peace Frog / Blue Sunday;  Love Me Two Times (Ray stepped up to sing at Robby's mike);  When The Music's Over (dedicated to James Douglas Morrison);  band intros;  Alabama Song;  Back Door Man (Rick Manczarek on guitar);  band huddle;  L.A. Woman (Owen Goldman on cymbals).  Encore #1: Soul Kitchen.  Encore #2: Light My Fire, a shortened version with no bass, drum or percussion breaks.  Ray started his LMF solo under the Vox, and interrupted his solo to sign an album cover for a fan in front.  Dave's precise reporting tells us the show ran from 8:22 to 10:00 p.m.  (thanks, Dave)

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus gets analyzed in a story called "Weird scenes inside the goldmine" by Cory Frye on DemocratHerald.com.  Read it at: http://democratherald.com/entertainment/weird-scenes-inside-the-goldmine/article_efd83cb6-ecd2-5b8c-978d-2b5c59ae27b7.html

The former London Fog site on the fabulous Sunset Strip will open at 11:11 a.m. tomorrow, November 11, 2011 under the name Rock & Reilly's.  Read more about this at:  http://la.eater.com/archives/2011/11/10/a_new_drink_den_hits_the_sunset_strip_rock_reillys.php

Murray Lerner is the film maker who directed and produced 'Message To Love', the 1996 film that documents the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival.  Mr. Lerner will appear at L.A.'s Grammy Museum on December 8th at a screening of 'Wild Blue Angel', the DVD of Jimi Hendrix's last-ever live appearance in England at that festival.  An audience Q&A with Lerner and others will follow the film's screening.  For more info about the event and on-sale dates, go to: http://www.grammymuseum.org/interior.php?section=programs&page=publicprograms#reelhendrix

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 November 9, 2011    Robby interview <> Ray & Robby story
Robby Krieger did an interview with Detroit's DailyTribune.com in advance of an upcoming Manzarek-Krieger show in that city.  Robby talks about their singer Dave Brock, and lots more.  Read it at: http://www.dailytribune.com/articles/2011/11/09/entertainment/doc4ebad82f24421445762823.txt

Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger are both quoted in a story today on ChicagoTribune.com.  Read it at:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/ct-ott-1111-ray-manzarek-20111110,0,4082745.story

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 November 8, 2011   LMF: an 'opinion' <> LMF from Lupo's <> Danny Fields story <> Jim Morrison & Andy Rooney <> 'Waiting For The Sun' essay
'Light My Fire' should be "put out to pasture" along with 4 other classic rock 'warhorses', according to a story today on MSNBC's 'The Scoop' column.  The mere suggestion of that is sacrilege.  However, I do agree with the other four over-played songs the writer thinks should be retired:  Stairway To Heaven (Led Zep); Scenes From An Italian Restaurant (Billy Joel); Free Bird (Lynyrd Skynyrd); and Hotel California (The Eagles).  You can read the writer's reasonings or jump into the debate at: http://scoop.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/08/8682446-stairway-to-heaven-turns-40-lets-retire-it-with-these-other-classics

Speaking of LMF, here is a link to a 16-minute YouTube video from the Manzarek-Krieger show at Lupo's in Providence, Rhode Island last week:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=of_I1F8vQg4&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Danny Fields was a publicist for Elektra Records in NYC in the late 1960s.  A reader sent me a link to a 2010 article about Danny that appeared in the New Yorker in August 2010 which includes an unflattering anecdote about Jim Morrison.  Read it at: http://www.newyorker.com/talk/2010/08/30/100830ta_talk_seabrook  (thanks, Kyle)

Jim Morrison and Andy Rooney as roommates in heaven?  Today's Huffington Post has a satirical piece by James Napoli about the late Andy Rooney reporting in one last time from heaven.  Read it at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-napoli/andy-rooney-returns-to-cb_b_1079139.html

'Waiting For The Sun' album is the topic of yet another essay today on AVclub.com, this one by Steven Hyden.  The piece includes the classic 'Kids In The Hall' sketch about being a Doors fan.  Check it out at:  http://www.avclub.com/articles/the-doors-waiting-for-the-sun,64708/

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 November 6, 2011    Ray & Robby in Philly <> John called in to Jim Ladd program
Manzarek-Krieger played Keswick Theater near Philadelphia last night.  Very lucky fan Dave, who was catching his third show of this current tour, has shared his report.  The show ran from 8:14 to 10:04!  Here is the set list:  Roadhouse Blues;  Peace Frog;  Alabama Song;  Back Door Man (with Rick Manczarek on guitar);  Five To One;  Not To Touch The Earth;  band intros;  Soul Kitchen;  Indian Summer;  When The Music's Over.  Encore #1: Break On Through;  Riders On The Storm (with Hitchhiker poem);  L.A. Woman (with Owen Goldman on cymbals).  Encore #2:  Light My Fire  (with Ray, Owen Goldman, tech, Rick Manczarek on percussion & whistle).  Lucky Fan Dave says tonight's high energy show hit the stratosphere during Soul Kitchen.  Only an hour had passed when the band left the stage after WTMO, and then they returned for what he thinks was perhaps the best encore he's ever seen.  He felt Break On Through really killed, coming in later in the show instead of early when they are warming up.  Lucky Fan Dave also described ROTS as epic, from the beginning with Dave Brock reciting the hitchhiker lines, to the power ending.  Robby riffed Ghost Riders In The Sky in there, too.  Sounds like a stupendous show.  (thanks, Lucky Fan Dave)

John Densmore was one of the celebrities who called in to speak with Jim Ladd on AM radio station KFI 640 last evening.  I caught the third hour of the program and heard John's call, the second-to-last before the show ended.  A local paper already has a story about Jim Ladd's on-air program.  Read it at: http://www.ocregister.com/entertainment/ladd-325700-radio-jim.html

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 November 5, 2011    Ray & Robby in NY <> Jim Ladd on radio today
Manzarek-Krieger played the NYCB Theater in Westbury, New York last night.  A lucky fan who was there shared his report.  The show started at 8:20 and was plagued by problems with Ray's organ for the first three songs before it was finally fixed.  Ray said the goal of the evening was to play the same set list as The Doors did on April 19, 1968.  Here is what they played following the O Fortuna introduction:  Roadhouse Blues;  Peace Frog;  Alabama Song;  Back Door Man (Rick Manczarek on guitar);  Maggie M'Gill (Ray said it was not played in '68 but they were doing it as an 'extra' song);  Five To One;  Not To Touch The Earth;  Soul Kitchen (with snippets from Gloria);  Light My Fire (with Rick Manczarek & Owen Goldman);  When The Music's Over;  Indian Summer;  Break On Through.  The printed set list included Love Me Two Times and L.A. Woman, but those did not make the live set.  The report on this high energy show included more positive feedback about Dave Brock, who was 'just himself', sang well, and was not trying to be Jim ... similar to other fan comments.  The highlight for this lucky fan was when Robby walked off the stage during Light My Fire and did his solo right in front of him and his friend, who were in the front row.  Wow, I have never seen Robby do that before.  This band continues to evolve and improve their show!  (thanks, Michael)

L.A. deejay Jim Ladd was let go from KLOS 95.5 early last week, as I reported on October 26.  If you missed that story, you can catch up at with this sad turn of events at: http://www.ocregister.com/entertainment/klos-323910-ladd-radio.html.  An L.A. AM station is giving Jim Ladd the chance to host a show this afternoon between 4-7 p.m. when he takes to the airwaves in the Lisa Ann Walter time slot.  Viewers can call in and talk to Jim.  If you want to listen or join in, go to:  http://www.kfiam640.com/pages/lisaannwalter.html (thanks, Jimm)

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 November 3, 2011    Ray & Robby in Providence <> Robby & Ray tour Capitol Hill
Manzarek-Krieger played Lupo's Lounge in Providence, RI last night.  A lucky fan who was there described it as phenomenal, high energy, and said the crowd mix of both older and younger were really into it.  Craig has seen them four times before with Ian, Brett and Milijenko, and rates Dave Brock as good or better than those three!  High praise, indeed.  We don't have the set list to share, but the highlights for him were Waiting For The Sun, Soft Parade, Maggie M'Gill, and Indian Summer.  (thanks, Craig)

Robby Krieger and Ray Manzarek and Dave Brock and Ty Dennis and Phil Chen all got to have a very special tour of Capitol Hill on Monday afternoon.  This happened before sound check for their show that evening in Alexandria, VA.  Read about how this happened at:  http://www.rollcall.com/issues/57_53/heard_hill_back_door_men_ray_manzarek_robby_krieger-209986-1.html

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 November 2, 2011    Ray & Robby in Red Bank <> Robby interview
Manzarek-Krieger played the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank, NJ last night.  Luckier than most, the fan who reported on Monday night's Birchmere show was also there last night.  He's going for a triple play and will be reporting on the show at the Keswick Theater on Saturday night.  This performance clocked in at just under two hours again, running from 8:19 to 10:07!  Love the precision.  Here is last night's set list: O Fortuna; Roadhouse Blues; Break On Through; Love Me Two Times; When The Music's Over; band intros; Alabama Song; Soft Parade (with Owen Goldman on percussion); Soft Parade reprise, with Ty Dennis & Owen Goldman switching places, allowing Ty to roam the stage with handheld percussion; Love Her Madly; Indian Summer (Dave Brock said it was the first time ever); Maggie M'Gill (with Rick Manczarek on guitar); Riders On The Storm; L.A. Woman (with Owen).  Encore #1: People Are Strange (a duo of only Robby and Dave Brock!).  Encore #2: Light My Fire (with Owen, Ray, and guitar tech on percussion, while Rick Manczarek danced and blew a whistle).  Ray's long and dissonant solo during ROTS brought the crowd to its feet, and he added a similar piece as a shimmering coda to the song's conclusion.  (thanks, Dave) Another lucky fan also reported in on this show.  He described it as high energy playing to a full house.  There was plenty of chatter between Ray and Robby and the crowd, who commented on how they love New Jersey audiences.  This fan reported last night's to be the best of the six shows he has seen, and was very impressed with Dave Brock on vocals.  (thanks, Gary)

Robby Krieger did an interview with DigBoston.com ... and got asked a new, never-before-asked question!  Read it (and his answer) at:  http://digboston.com/laugh/2011/11/defend-yourself-robby-krieger/#more-106606

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 November 1, 2011    Ray & Robby in Tarrytown, NY <> Ray & Robby in Alexandria, VA <> Ken Regan photo book
Manzarek-Krieger played Tarrytown Music Hall in Tarrytown, NY on Sunday night, October 30.  A lucky fan who was there for the almost-two hour show gave favorable feedback on Dave Brock on vocals, and shared the set list with us : O Fortuna; Roadhouse Blues; Break On Through; Strange Days; Peace Frog; Blue Sunday; When The Music's Over; Alabama Song; Back Door Man; Crawling King Snake (with Rick Manczarek on guitar); Robby flamenco solo into Spanish Caravan; L.A. Woman.  Encore: Light My Fire.  (thanks, Gerry)

Manzarek-Krieger played Alexandria, Virginia's Birchmere Theater last night, October 31.  A lucky fan who was there has shared the set list and comments: Roadhouse Blues; Break On Through; Love Me Two Times; When The Music's Over; Alabama Song; Soft Parade (with Owen Goldman on percussion); Love Her Madly; Crystal Ship; Changeling (with Chain of Fools, mojo verses and Sunshine of Your Love ending); Maggie M'Gill (with Rick Manczarek on guitar); Touch Me; Riders On The Storm (dedicated to Jim & Pam).  Encore: Light My Fire (with Owen & Ray adding percussion).  The fan reported it was a high-energy show with lots of intensity, especially on WTMO and Soft Parade.  Dave Brock introduced Soft Parade as the first time on tour (with no rehearsal).  A fan in the audience was introduced as a high school classmate of Jim's, so Ray joked about his age and looks.  The show ran from 7:36 to 9:16 p.m. (pretty precise reporting, LOL); the early start was due to a local noise ordinance.  (thanks, Dave)

"All Access: The Rock 'N' Roll Photography of Ken Regan" is a new hardcover photo book that looks to be chock-full of some amazing rock photos.  There is at least one photo of Jim Morrison laid out on the stage, as shown in this story about the book: http://www.wired.com/rawfile/2011/11/photo-book-shows-a-new-side-of-rock-legends/?pid=1266&pageid=6235&viewall=true.  The problem I see here is that the photo is identified as Westbury Music Fair in January 1970, but that show was April 19, 1968.  It might simply be mislabeled in this story, but correct in the actual book.  Whatever.  Amazon.com lists this book with a release date of November 8: http://www.amazon.com/All-Access-Rock-Photography-Regan/dp/1608870332/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320216010&sr=1-1

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 October 31, 2011    is Barney's Beanery haunted? <> new book releases <> t-shirts discount offer
Here is another "tis the season" type of story from the L.A. Times.  This time it's about Barney's Beanery in West Hollywood.  Doors fans know that BB is part of Doors history and lore.  Are there ghosts inhabiting Barney's Beanery?  Find out at: http://articles.latimes.com/2011/oct/30/local/la-me-barneys-ghosts-20111030

Don't forget about the books that get released tomorrow:   "The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus:  http://www.amazon.com/Doors-Lifetime-Listening-Five-Years/dp/1586489453/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318557728&sr=1-5; "The Doors FAQ: All That's Left To Know About The Kings Of Acid Rock" by author Rich Weidman:  http://www.amazon.com/Doors-FAQ-Thats-About-Kings/dp/1617130176/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320120908&sr=1-1;  "A Perfect Haze: The Illustrated History of the Monterey International Pop Festival"  by author Harvey Kubernik, includes narrative by Ray and never-before-seen photos of The Doors and Jim Morrison at the Mt. Tamalpais festival in June 1967, the week before Monterey Pop: http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Haze-Illustrated-Monterey-International/dp/1595800603/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320121211&sr=1-3

Awhile back I shared a link to a website with an impressive selection of Doors t-shirts.  Here is a great deal that has been extended to readers of this website.  Use coupon code IDAFAN10 for 10% off any purchase, one time per customer, from now until December 2012 (not a typo: this is good for a year+).  This offer is good on any merch from their website, so check it out: http://www.band-tees.com/  (thanks, Cheryll)

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 October 28, 2011    Los Angeles Magazine essay <> Ray & Robby story <> Morrison jack-o-lantern
'The People's Band'.  That is the title of an essay by Steve Erickson in the November issue of Los Angeles Magazine (page 98) which analyzes the forthcoming book 'The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening To Five Mean Years' by Greil Marcus, which hits shelves on November 1.  If you look for it, the cover is 'Food Lovers Guide to L.A.'  You can read it here at: http://www.lamag.com/culture/celebrities/story.aspx?ID=1553764 (thanks, Kyle)

Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger perform in Red Bank, NJ at the Count Basie Theater next Tuesday, November 1.  A preview story ran today on MyCentralJersey.com: http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20111029/NJENT01/310290013/Doors-musicians-keep-band-s-music-alive?odyssey=nav|head

'Tis the season.  A jack-o-lantern carved in the likeness of Jim Morrison made it into USA Today: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/popcandy/post/2011/10/photo-jim-morrison-turns-into-a-pumpkin/1?csp=34life

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 October 27, 2011    Ray interview <> Ray portrayed
Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers play UCO Jazz Lab in Edmond, OK tomorrow (Friday) night.  An interview with him ran today on NewsOK.com.  Read it at:  http://newsok.com/ex-doors-keyboardist-ray-manzarek-plays-uco-jazz-lab/article/3617178?custom_click=lead_story_title

Ray Manzarek was name-checked and portrayed last night in the Halloween episode of an ABC show called 'Happy Endings.'  One of the main characters encounters someone carrying a door, who explained that he was on the way to a Halloween party with friends, and they were going as The Doors.  He was dressed in a natty suit.  When asked which one he was, he said Ray Manzarek.  Jim Morrison gets name-checked or parodied all the time; it's cool that another band member got the treatment this time.  It got mentioned in EW.com:  http://tvrecaps.ew.com/recap/happy-endings-season-2-episode-5/.  (thanks, CeCe)  

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 October 26, 2011    LAW Singles Box Set <> Robby podcast from this AM <> Ray interview <> Jim Ladd: unemployed <> Venice Beach landmarks
Record Store Day's Black Friday 2011 on November 25, the day after Thanksgiving, will see the unveiling of a limited edition, four-disc vinyl boxed set that spotlights the "L.A. Woman" album.  The collection includes 7-inch vinyl singles for three of the album's most iconic tracks: "Love Her Madly", "Riders On The Storm", and "The Changeling".  Each will be backed with a B-side featuring an unreleased, alternate take of the same song, and presented in a sleeve featuring original artwork from an international single release from the era.  The fourth 7-inch offers rare insight into their creative process with two "Inside The Workshop" selections that capture previously unheard studio dialogue from Jim, Ray, Robby and John as they recorded LAW with Bruce Botnick.  The first side features band dialogue from the recording of ROTS, and the second side spotlights the band discussing their cover of John Lee Hooker's "Crawling King Snake".  Also included in the set is an exact replica of a poster Elektra used to promote the album around the original 1970 release.  The poster was designed by Carl Cossick, who also designed the die-cut album cover and features the "Electric Woman" image featured in the original vinyl sleeve of the album.  This release will be numbered and limited to 4000 sets worldwide.  It will be available exclusively at participating independent record stores on November 25 for a suggested list price of $49.98.  The "L.A. Woman Singles Box" provides a first listen to some of the unreleased material that will be included in the upcoming deluxe edition of LAW, set for release from Rhino in early 2012.  For a directory of participating stores, visit: www.recordstoreday.com

Robby Krieger's radio interview earlier today on WHRW-FM is already archived.  You can listen to the 14-minute Podcast at: www.bartlespeaks.com  (thanks, Rich)

Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers play Granada Theater in Dallas, Texas this Saturday night.  There is an interview with Ray on DFW.com at: http://www.dfw.com/2011/10/25/528567/ray-manzarek-doors-dallas-granada.html

DJ Jim Ladd, the legendary, unique and long-time fixture on L.A. radio, has been let go from his free-form radio show on 95.5 KLOS.  This is sad news for Doors fans.  Jim Ladd has always been a huge fan and big supporter of the band.  Most recently, in August he introduced the Manzarek-Krieger shows in southern California, as well as the Robby Krieger All-Star concert following the golf tourney which benefited the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  You could always count on Jim Ladd having either Ray or Robby or John either in-studio or on the phone, especially when there was an event looming.  I will especially miss being able to listen to his show during late night drives home from Los Angeles ... not only for his eclectic play list, but the Doors "deep cuts" that get played nowhere else.  Read about this sad day for L.A. radio:  http://www.ocregister.com/entertainment/klos-323910-ladd-radio.html

Venice Beach figures large in Doors and Morrison history and lore.  A story about Venice landmarks, including the famous mural of Jim, are discussed in a story on UCLA's Daily Bruin website: http://www.dailybruin.com/index.php/article/2011/10/_visiting_venice_l.a.s_cultural_hotspot_

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 October 25, 2011    Robby on radio Wed. AM <> Morrison ancestors 
Robby Krieger will be interviewed early tomorrow (Wednesday) on the radio at: www.whrwfm.org 90.5 FM between 7:00-8:30 a.m. (eastern time).  The name of the program is Bartlemania with Doc. B.  If you miss the broadcast, the interview will be archived within a few days on:  www.bartlemania.com and also at:  www.bartlespeaks.com  (thanks, Rich)

Jim Morrison's ancestors are laid to rest in a cemetery in Rome, Georgia according to columnist Mike Ragland who wrote about them for the Rome News-Tribune.  Read it at:  http://romenews-tribune.com/pages/full_story/push?article-GUEST+COLUMN-+Rock+singer+was+true+to+his+genius%20&id=16130924

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 October 21, 2011    8512 Santa Monica Boulevard <> Skrillex <> word men McClure & Ford <> pix from 8512 SM Blvd <> pix from Beyond Baroque 
'Tradition Tapas Kitchen' is the name of the eatery scheduled to open on October 28th in the hallowed building at 8512 Santa Monica Boulevard which once housed The Doors' office and workshop, and where the 'L.A. Woman' was recorded.  I stopped in there yesterday, met the new owners and got to look around.  The re-modeled downstairs dining room will serve traditional Mediterranean cuisine.  The upstairs lounge will be called Forbidden Bar & Lounge and feature a more contemporary style of Mediterranean food.  Upstairs is being outfitted with some great cozy looking furniture as well as a VIP area.  A platform at the rear of that room can feature a DJ, live music, or a belly dancer!  The turquoise doors that were the entrances from the sidewalk when it was Mexico Restaurante y Barra will be removed and replaced with wrought iron fencing.  They plan to be open seven days a week.  When their website goes live, I will have a link to it further down this home page.  Check back later today for some photos.

DJ and producer Skrillex made the cover story of the latest L.A. Weekly.  His cover photo includes the caption 'The Boy King of Electronic Dance Music'.  His collaboration with Ray, Robby and John finally gets mentioned near the end of page 4 of this story: http://www.laweekly.com/2011-10-20/music/skrillex-l-a-dj-producer-is-boy-king-of-electronic-dance-music/

There were no surprise appearances by any of the Doors at Beyond Baroque in Venice, CA last night, but it was a very well attended event for the occasion of Michael McClure's 80th birthday.  Michael C. Ford opened the program with a half hour of poetry readings, followed by McClure's readings.  McClure dedicated 'Maybe Mama Lion' to Ray Manzarek.  During the program, we learned that McClure and Ford actually met for the first time when they both appeared at the benefit for Norman Mailer's NYC mayoralty campaign in May 1969 at Cinematheque 16.  Jim Morrison and Robby Krieger were also there that night.  At the end of the evening, a birthday cake appeared and the audience sang!  Check back later today for some photos.

Here are a few photos I took yesterday of the forthcoming Tradition Tapas Kitchen and upstairs Forbidden Bar & Lounge at 8512 Santa Monica Boulevard.  The restaurant and lounge are in its final week of pre-opening preparations, so I did not ask to take any interior photos. photos here

Here are a few photos I took last night at Beyond Baroque in Venice, CA for the occasion of Beat Poet Michael McClure's 80th birthday.  He was joined by fellow poet and long-time friend Michael C. Ford.  photos here

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 October 20, 2011    John at Occupy L.A. rally <> Jim Morrison, Poet <> actress visits Jim's grave
John Densmore can be seen in a 2-1/2 minute YouTube video talking to the camera at last Saturday's 'Occupy L.A. Rally' in downtown L.A.   With him on-screen is his friend Sam Joseph, who wrote the play 'Window of Opportunity' that John co-produced in 2006 for a 5-week run at the Met Theater in Hollywood.  Check out the YT video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUhVUV10qyg.  (thanks, Jim)

Jim Morrison's merit as a "poet" has been discussed, dissected and analyzed for four & a half decades (so far).  Today there is a lengthy essay by Daniel Nester on this same subject on Huffington Post.  Read it at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/20/jim-morrison-poet_n_1021692.html

Actress Kirstie Alley was photographed at Pere Lachaise with a friend as they strolled around and laid pink roses at Jim Morrison's grave this week.  Read all about that at:  http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2051145/Kirstie-Alley-takes-new-dancer-friend-date--Jim-Morrisons-grave.html?ito=feeds-newsxml.

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 October 19, 2011    Ray interview <> 8512 Santa Monica news <> teleseminar <> John to appear at library benefit <> 'Dawn's Highway' film <> 'Soul Kitchen' restaurant
Ray Manzarek did an interview with UltimateClassicRock.com and talked about The Doors, Roy Rogers, Sly Stone, Warren Zevon, Jim Carroll, Jim Morrison, and much more.  Read it at:  http://ultimateclassicrock.com/ray-manzarek-the-doors-interview/

There is more news about renovations happening at 8512 Santa Monica Boulevard since my report last week.  The building was tented for fumigation, there are workers doing stuff inside and on the patios, the main building and front entry columns have been painted white, and now there is a sign on the building announcing this as the new location for 'Tappas International Kitchen' with a grand opening date of October 28.  I'll have a chance to take some more photos to share within the next few days.  (thanks, Brad)

Tomorrow evening's Open Doors Teleseminar presented by David Shiang will give three lucky listeners the chance to win copies of the electronic version of his upcoming book.  To participate, call Conference Line 805-360-1000, ID 167290# at 9:00 p.m. (eastern time).  (thanks, David)

John Densmore has just been added to the line-up for the 'Young Literati 4th Annual Toast', an evening to benefit the Los Angeles Public Library.  The October 28th event will be hosted by Shepard Fairey and feature readings and performances by Russell Brand, Demetri Martin, Henry Rollins, Busy Phillips, and John.  This all happens at the Richard J. Riordan Central Library in L.A., and it costs $150. per person.  Oh well, I won't be reporting on this one!  For more info, go to: http://www.lfla.org/event-detail/672/p-classnomarginstrong4th-Annual-Toaststrongp

'Dawn's Highway' is an indie docu film by film maker Brad Durham that explores the well-known Jim Morrison story about his family encountering a carload of injured and dead Indians on a New Mexico highway when he was a child.  The film will be screened this Friday, October 21 at 1:45 p.m. as part of the Santa Fe (New Mexico) Independent Film Festival.  According to the festival website, the running time is 20 minutes.  For more info on the screening, go to:  http://www.ticketssantafe.org/tsf/event_calendar/detail/1105.  FThe filmmaker has entered 'Dawn's Highway' in other festivals, and is waiting to hear about acceptance.  To keep up with the film's progress, join the Dawn's Highway Facebook page.  (thanks, Simone)

'Soul Kitchen' is the name of a restaurant that had its grand opening today in Red Bank, New Jersey.  The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation is responsible.  It is designed as a community restaurant to help the needy. A good cause, for sure.  Fan Mike was at the event as a cameraman, and he had the opportunity to personally ask JBJ if he got the name from the Doors song.  JBJ answered Mike that he didn't know the Doors song had a song called 'Soul Kitchen'.  Oh well. It could happen, and Soul Kitchen is still a good cause.  Check out their website at:  http://www.jbjsoulkitchen.org/ (thanks, Mike)

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 October 17, 2011    John at protest rally <> Doors teleseminar <> 'You Make Me Real' book in English
John Densmore's appearance at Saturday's 'Occupy L.A. Rally' in downtown L.A. can be viewed in a 1-1/2 minute YouTube video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hu-n_acBXRI

Author and Doors scholar David Shiang will conduct an Open Doors Teleseminar on Thursday, Octrober 20 at 9:00 p.m. (eastern time).  To participate, call Conference Line 805-360-1000, ID 167290#.  (thanks, David)

'You Make Me Real' by author Rui Pedro Silva can be ordered in its English version for 24 Euros (plus shipping charges) from Simone Giuseppin, Webmaster of the bi-lingual Italian Doors fan website at http://www.doorscollectors.com/.  If interested, contact him at: Simone_Giuseppin@libero.it (thanks, Simone)

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 October 16, 2011    John leads protest rally
John Densmore led an 'Occupy L.A. Rally' in downtown L.A. yesterday morning.  According to the story on MyBackPage.com, John was joined by Rapper Wil B and Comic Jeff Ross.  An estimated 10,000 anti-Wall Street protesters marched in Downtown L.A. from Pershing Square to City Hall in solidarity with other occupation movements across the country.  Read the full story, which also includes some photos:  http://www.backpagemagazine.com/2011/10/16/the-doors%E2%80%99-john-densmore-rapper-wil-b-comic-jeff-ross-at-occupy-l-a-rally/

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 October 15, 2011    Ray on San Franc TV
Ray Manzarek was a guest on San Francisco's 7LiveOnLine.com yesterday.  During his 7-minute interview, he talks about (among other things) basketball, Roy Rogers, and the big-screen project for his 2002 novel 'The Poet In Exile'.  Watch the full segment at: http://7liveonline.com/Ray-Manzarek:-Stay-strictly-psychedelic/8392713

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 October 13, 2011     Skrillex & RE:GENERATION project <> unseen 1967 photos <> Doors reference on new TV show <> NME 'Top Ten' <> Greil Marcus author events
The recent collaboration between DJ and producer Skrillex with Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger and John Densmore got a blog write-up in today's LA Weekly, complete with a few photos.  Read it at: http://blogs.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2011/10/skrillex_robby_krieger.php.   Here is a promo for the resulting film RE:GENERATION: http://www.youtube.com/hyundaiusa?x=us_regeneration_390_ (thanks, Roland)

Unseen color photos of The Doors and Jim Morrison at the Mt. Tamalpais festival in June 1967 are included in "A Perfect Haze: An Illustrated History of the Monterey International Pop Festival".  This is the newest book from noted rock journalist Harvey Kubernik and his brother Ken Kubernik.  The book includes some narrative contributed by Ray Manzarek about The Doors show at Mt. Tam, which took place the weekend before Monterey Pop.  The book's release date is November 1, and can be pre-ordered at: http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Haze-Illustrated-Monterey-International/dp/1595800603/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318525648&sr=1-2  The authors are earmarking their proceeds from the sales of the book to the Monterey International Pop Festival fund.  (thanks, Harvey)

Jim Morrison and The Doors references somehow figure into the second episode of a new TV series called 'American Horror Story' starring Dylan McDermott and Connie Britton.  The 'Stranger Danger' episode aired last night.  As best I can tell the band members are not actually portrayed, but some of the story characters are at The Doors' Hollywood Bowl show when something heinous happens at home.  Read more about this at: http://tvrecaps.ew.com/recap/stranger-danger/

Jim Morrison has made it onto another 'Top Ten' list, but this one differs from the usual ones.  NME's on-line magazine has named Lou Reed as "Rock's Most Overrated Lyricist."  LOL.  Within that story is the rest of their 'Top Ten', and Jim Morrison came in at #7.  He has some fairly stellar company on the list.  Check it out at:  http://www.nme.com/news/lou-reed/59791

"The Doors: A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years" by author Greil Marcus will be available on November 1.  Some Greil Marcus author events have been announced:  October 17 at Union Square Barnes & Noble in NYC;  November 7 at BookCourt in Brooklyn, NY (book release party); and December 1 at Harvard Bookstore in Cambridge, MA.  The book can be pre-ordered through Amazon in several formats:  http://www.amazon.com/Doors-Lifetime-Listening-Five-Years/dp/1586489453/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318557728&sr=1-5

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 October 12, 2011     John at Harrison event
John Densmore was at last night's 'by invitation only' VIP event at L.A.'s Grammy Museum hosted by Olivia Harrison, George's widow.  The occasion was the opening of the latest exhibition, "George Harrison: Living in the Material World" which will run through February 2012.  Other celebs in attendance included Ringo & his wife; Jeff Lynne; Edward James Olmos; and Jim Keltner.  The private event was Tuesday (last) night, not Wednesday (tonight) as indicated in the story.  Read the full story in today's L.A. Times at:   http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2011/10/george-harrison-material-world-grammy-museum.html

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 October 11, 2011     John profile <> McClure & Ford together <> eBay auction
John Densmore was profiled in Los Angeles Magazine last December.  A fan just sent me the link to share: http://www.lamag.com/culture/lastory/Story.aspx?ID=1405389 (thanks, Kyle)

Ray Manzarek's frequent collaborators Michael McClure and Michael C. Ford come together on Thursday, October 20th at Beyond Baroque Literary / Arts Center in Venice, CA.  This event is billed as "Michael McClure Birthday Reading With Michael C. Ford."  Michael C. Ford has also worked with John Densmore and Robby Krieger ... so who knows if 'anyone else' will show up.  For more info, go to: http://www.beyondbaroque.org/

An eBay auction for an item described as a 1965 acetate of Moonlight Drive / Hello I Love You / Insane, has ended after 41 bids with a final price of $3,650.  Phew!  Check it out at: http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190584205468&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNA:US:1123#cvip_desc

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 October 10, 2011     "The Poet In Exile" to become film
Ray Manzarek's novel 'The Poet In Exile' is heading to the big screen, according to a story in Variety.  His 2002 book explored the notion that Morrison staged his death in 1971, and contacts Ray from his hiding place in the Seychelles Islands to embark on one final journey of rock & roll rebellion.  Ray will co-produce and score the project, which is being written, directed and produced by Tim Sullivan under his Clubhouse Entertainment banner.  Read the full story at:  http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118044166

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 October 9, 2011    John at film screening last night <> 8512 Santa Monica Blvd
John Densmore appeared in Santa Monica last night when Aero Theater screened a 70mm print screening of Oliver Stone's "The Doors".  I had a conflict and did not attend, but fan Roxanne did and provided a detailed report:  The movie started a little late, around 7:40, and wrapped at 10:05 or so.  John took the stage with Geoff Boucher.  John held up a bag of bagels that he brought for those who fasted today for Rosh Hashanah, stating that he was a (reformed) Catholic.  Three of the bagels were distributed by a member of the audience.  John said he was “his own roadie” and got out a drum and sheet music stand.  He spoke of listening to the first album with his parents, dreading having to listen to The End.  He said that the movie is about 2/3 true and 1/3 poetic license, and that he wished the 1960’s had been more prominent in the movie.  John said that he met Bob Dylan in Malibu and Dylan was kind of aloof until John introduced himself as “The Doors drummer” and from then on they were friendly.  He said that Dylan was backstage at The Doors Rock Hall Induction, almost like a groupie, strangely dressed in a hoodie and almost unrecognizable.  He said that Dylan let him use a quote (maybe a lyric) for his book for only $50, whereas Billy Joel was charging $400 for one of his.  John spoke of the new book he is working on regarding the trial, and that during the trial he met The Admiral.  He expressed definite displeasure over Ray and Robby doing the D21C thing, and said that he is using his veto power to protect Jim’s legacy.  John did a Q&A with the audience.  He said the first time he met Jim was at Ray’s parent’s garage in Manhattan Beach , that Jim was barefoot in cords and a t-shirt and extremely shy.  He said that their recording L.A. Woman at the workshop was their attempt to get back to the “few takes / garage” feel, and that he had a lot of room for fills without a live bassist in the band.  John also spoke of “the greed gene” and that he is part of the 99%.  He was raised lower-middle-class, with his childhood home being where the 405/10 meet, and that he tithes 10% to charity.  He said that while Ian Astbury is a good singer, even if you get the best singer in the world to sing the songs, that singer still isn’t Jim.  John closed with 'An American Prayer' while again playing the drum.  He did a short meet and greet afterwards, telling someone in his entourage that he “was ok with it – they paid money to be here”.  Although the theater’s website says there is no recording allowed, a few folks were recording on their phones so it may hit YouTube pretty soon.  Thanks to Roxanne for a great re-cap!  (thanks, Roxanne)

I checked out 8512 Santa Monica Boulevard yesterday to follow up on a fan's report that there has been recent construction activity going on at the former site of The Doors Workshop and office.  The last active business there was Mexico Restaurant y Barra, which closed very early this year, leaving the site sitting vacant ever since.  I did not notice much in the way of structural renovations, although there is no way to know what has happened to the building interior.  For now, there is patio furniture stacked up in front of the downstairs entrance, and the exterior walls of the main building have been painted white.  The Doors plaque remains on one of the front pillars.. There is a 'Public Notice of Application for Ownership Change' posted on the entrance doors.  One of these days I'll follow up with the property manager to try to learn more.   photo1  ~  photo2  ~  photo3  ~  photo4  ~  photo5  ~  photo6  ~  photo7

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 October 8, 2011    John in Santa Monica tonight <> Robby in Tarrytown <> Robby Iridium in 2010 <> Gibson "geek" facts <> Cliff Morrison <> Doors fan on White Sox team
Reminder: John Densmore is scheduled to attend a 70mm print screening of Oliver Stone's "The Doors" film tonight at Aero Theater in Santa Monica.  Although many fans dislike (even despise) this film, mostly everyone agrees that - when viewed as a rock & roll film and one not to be taken totally literally - it is a great ride (with great music!) and Val Kilmer was terrific in the role.  John had a role in the film and Robby did an accidental walk through in one scene, and they were both consultants and musical coaches.  This film was responsible for a huge resurgence of interest in the band and introduced their music to new generations of future fans.  John will participate in a discussion afterward.  I won't be able to attend due to a concert conflict, but I do plan to check out what is going on at 8512 Santa Monica Boulevard and will take photos of whatever I find.  More about the film screening tonight at:   http://www.smmirror.com/?ajax#mode=single&view=33106

When Manzarek-Krieger performs at Tarrytown (NY) Music Hall on October 30, their show falls into a series of concerts designed to feature some of the leading writers and interpreters from the 1960's and early 1970's, including Robby Krieger!  Read more about this at:  http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/09/nyregion/judy-collins-and-stephen-stills-among-singers-at-tarrytown.html

Robby Krieger performed with the Les Paul trio this past Monday night at Iridium Jazz Club in New York City.  This YouTube video shows them performing 'Georgia On My Mind' from his October 2010 show there: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3btX6Cz9OQ.   When I get a chance, I'll look for videos from the October 3, 2011 show to share.

If you are a "guitar geek", then this story from the Gibson website about '20 Essential Facts About Gibson "Jazz" Archtops' (and which mentions Robby), is for you: http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/Jazz-Archtops-1006-2011/

The mention of Cliff Morrison evokes a lot of curiosity and controversy.  I have never shared my personal photos, opinions, and stories about Cliff, and I'm not going to start now.  However, Cliff has landed himself in hot water (again), and this time the local news story has widely hit the news services.  This story pretty well sums up where Cliff's life choices have led him.  Read the full story (which includes a recent photo) at:  http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_19065966

Robin Ventura was hired this week to be the new manager of the Chicago White Sox.  According to the fan who sent me this story, Robin Ventura is a big time Doors fan.  When Ventura played for the NY Mets in the late 1990's, Ventura took the phrase 'Mojo Risin' and made it the rally cry for the Mets the year the team made it to the playoffs.  The Mets even invited Patricia Kennealy Morrison to a game just before the play-offs.  This fan is hopeful that with Robin Ventura now working with the Chicago team, Doors music will be heard at White Sox games.  (thanks, Doug)

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 October 6, 2011    Doors coffee shop in Tokyo <> new film includes Ray, John & Robby
"Doors" is a coffee shop in Kameari, Tokyo, Japan named after the owner's favorite band!  see photo   In late May, Doors fans met there for lots of conversation about the band, along with a screening of 'When You're Strange' with Osamu Nozawa.  At the front of the shop is written, "The future's uncertain and the end is always near ..."  see photo The restaurant's interior is decorated with many bands, it is not strictly Doors-themed.  If you are Japanese-fluent, you can read more about "Doors" on a spaghetti blog at: http://www.eatnapo.net/archives/64997183.html (thanks, George)

"RE:GENERATION" is the title of a feature film due out in 2012 which, among other things, features music from all three remaining Doors.  As I understand it from the following linked story which appeared today on RollingStone.com (and includes a trailer), they worked with a DJ & Producer named Skrillex (Sonny Moore).  According to the story, the film is co-produced by the Grammys.  It should premiere early in 2012, and will be a big part of Grammy Week next year including "Re-mix Labs" with the artists involved, as well as an event at the Grammy museum and screening that week.  So, stay tuned.  Meanwhile, read the full source story at: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/remaining-doors-members-record-with-skrillex-for-new-documentary-20111006

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 October 5, 2011    Robby at Iridium videos <> John's induction of Jac <> David Shiang interview
Robby Krieger Band played four nights at the Iridium in New York City last weekend.  Two members of his band, Arthur Barrow and Tommy Mars, are former Frank Zappa bandmates.  The website Zappateers make it easy for us by listing links to 8 videos from those shows:   http://www.zappateers.com/bb/viewtopic.php?p=221142&sid=64da500629b7faea9f2b99da4466a8a3 There are more videos out there as well, including one featuring Evan Marshall and Sonya Hensley singing Light My Fire with the band: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlXX5fPlbCQ.  Albert Bouchard of Blue Oyster Cult and Evan Marshall join in for Roadhouse Blues:    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nrja2CMoHo&NR=1   There are more videos from the Iridium shows available on YouTube.       

John Densmore inducted Jac Holzman into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in New York City back in March.  The full 20-minute video, which includes Jac's touching acceptance speech and a performance from Judy Collins, can be seen on a Facebook page titled "John Densmore's Videos".  Check it out at: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150315033628191  (thanks, Jim)

David Shiang was interviewed on radio program Spiritually Raw at: http://spirituallyraw.podomatic.com/entry/2011-09-13T08_42_00-07_00. He is the first interviewee featured, and touches upon the group's extraordinary meaning and why the music has lasted more than 40 years.  Shiang will be interviewed again on October 20 at 10:00 a.m. ET.  Go to: www.spirituallyraw.com.  David Shiang is a longtime Doors fan and a leading Doors scholar.  He is currently working on a book that explores the meaning behind Morrison's lyrics and the vision of the music of The Doors.   (thanks, David)

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 September 30, 2011    "Year Of The Doors" <> Hard Rock, Rome <> new Doors 'store' <> Robby streams online tonight <> Paris 40th DVD <> LAW in LA mag
More on the "Year Of The Doors" and revised roll-out schedule for the 40th Anniversary L.A. Woman releases.  Instead of attempting to paraphrase all this info, you can read here the full post by The Doors Manager Jeff Jampol  ...  or else you can read the post on-line at the forum at:    http://www.thedoors.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21343&st=380&p=366268&hl=+year%20+of%20+the%20+doors&fromsearch=1&#entry366268  and scroll to message #384. (thanks, Gilles)

A famous Doors lyric is mounted over the inside restaurant door at the Hard Rock Cafe in Rome, Italy.  See the photo here.

A new 'Doors store' came on-line about a month ago.  It allows the buyer to choose whether to ship from USA or France, and all Doors products are now available for download purchase directly on thedoors.com.  All of the released material is available, including packages previously available only on iTunes (such as the virtual box set called Set The Night On Fire).   Coming soon will be "unreleased tidbits" available for sale ONLY on www.thedoors.com.  According to Doors Manager Jeff Jampol's post at  http://www.thedoors.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21441, you can just go to http://www.thedoors.com and click on "store" to explore (although I cannot find the "store" link there ... I must be having a stupid moment).  (thanks, Willi)

Reminder: Robby Krieger Band shows will stream on-line at 8:00 and 10:00 pm (NYC time) from Iridium Jazz Club in NYC.  That's 5:00 and 7:00 pm for us Westies.  Those first shows are tonight, and continue through Monday when he wraps up by playing with the Les Paul Trio.  Read about it at: http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2011/9/30/robby-kriegers-nyc-performances-to-be-streamed-live-online.html   To stream the shows, go to: http://theiridium.com/iridiumlive/.

Doors Collector Magazine (DCM) is offering a DVD compilation titled 'The Jim Morrison 40th Anniversary" and features footage from this year's July Paris gathering including Bataclan concert footage, news stories, Ray & Robby visiting the grave, fan photos, and more.  If you don't already subscribe to the Strange Days Newsletter, you should.  To learn more about the DVD or how to get it, go to: http://doors.com/245/

Los Angeles Magazine October issue (cover: Maria Shriver) has a 19-page 'celebration' of the L.A. Woman.  Included, and starting on page 168, there is an 'homage to The Doors' "L.A. Woman,", the greatest song ever written about our local femmes."  A 6-page photo spread of Noelle Scaggs (of Fitz and the Tantrums) includes lyrics from the song on each page.

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 September 29, 2011    'Year Of The Doors' <> Robby's Iridium webcasts <> new comic book <> Patricia Kennealy interviews 
The 40th Anniversary "L.A. Woman" releases planned for November 2011 are now subject to changes to the planned release schedule.  According to a post earlier this week by Doors manager Jeff Jampol, this is what is going on:  Jac Holzman has come on board to personally supervise with Jeff, a whole campaign called "Year Of The Doors" which will run from November 2011 to September 2012.  I'll share more details about all of this later today. (thanks, Gilles)

Robby Krieger's shows this weekend at New York City's Iridium Jazz Club can be enjoyed via HD webcasts.  Go to: http://www.theiridium.com/iridiumlive.  Read more about Robby's four-night run there at: http://top40-charts.com/news.php?nid=71166.

There is a new comic book out, printed in French, that was released just a few weeks ago.  It is available through FNAC, but it ain't cheap!  In the early 1990's there were four comic books (in English).  Check this one out at: http://livre.fnac.com/a3413289/Gaets-Les-Doors-en-Bd (thanks, Gilles)

Patricia Kennealy interviews can be seen in three videos on YouTube that were uploaded July 2010.  Check them out:  Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCembSmCifE     Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qJUja9rpb0&NR=1   Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkruSspq8H0&feature=related (thanks, Gilles)

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 September 26, 2011    Ray & Roy in FL
Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers will play the Wanee Festival in Live Oak, Florida on April 19, 2012 according to the Manzarek-Rogers website at: http://manzarek-rogersband.com/tour-dates/.  The event takes place at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, but this is not yet listed on their event website is: http://waneefestival.com/

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 September 24, 2011     John interview (& rant) <> horse business
John Densmore is speaking his mind again.  In an interview with Frying Pan News, John shares his thoughts on greed, Jim Morrison's legacy, and politics & patriotism.  Read the full article at:  http://fryingpannews.org/2011/09/23/the-doors%E2%80%99-john-densmore-on-greed-morrison%E2%80%99s-legacy-and-how-to-love-your-country/ (thanks, Jim)

"Mr Mojo Risin" is the name of a horse that was scheduled to run today at Arlington Park in Chicago.  Alas, it was scratched.  One can't help but wonder if the owner is a Doors fan, or just a fan of L.A. Woman.  Let's hope he knows about all the 40th Anniversary releases coming in November!   (thanks, Daniel)

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 September 23, 2011     John to appear at 'The Doors' screening
John Densmore appears at the Aero Theater in Santa Monica on Saturday, October 8 for a 20th anniversary 70mm screening of Oliver Stone's "The Doors".  John will participate in a discussion following the screening, moderated by Geoff Boucher of the L.A. Times.  For more info and advance tickets, go to: http://www.americancinemathequecalendar.com/content/the-doors-0. (thanks, Harvey)

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 September 21, 2011     Robby to play West L.A.
Robby Krieger returns to Good Hurt in West L.A. on Tuesday, September 27.  Playing with him will be Frank Zappa alumni Arthur Barrow and Tommy Mars.  The venue website is: http://www.goodhurt.com/about.  Here is the flyer for the show.  (thanks, Robert)

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 September 20, 2011     Doors films showing in NY tonight
Late notice on this, but if you are in the vicinity of Huntington, Long Island, New York tonight at 7:30, there will be a 90-minute screening of Doors performances at Cinema Arts Centre.  The event is narrated by archivist Bill Shelley and includes a reception.  For more info, go to: http://www.cinemaartscentre.org/010/010JUNE/BillShelley.html#Doors  (thanks, Hugh)

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 September 19, 2011     Robby at Iridium NYC <> 'Dawn's Highway' at film festival
Robby Krieger returns to Iridium Jazz Club in New York City for four nights beginning next weekend, two shows each night at 8:00 and 10:00 p.m.   The Robby Krieger Fusion Band plays three nights from Friday, September 30 through Sunday, October 2.  Then on Monday, October 3 Robby performs with the Les Paul Trio.  For tickets, reservations and more info, go to: http://theiridium.com/calendar/

The film 'Dawn's Highway' has been selected for screening at the Santa Fe Film Festival which runs between October 20-23.  Dates and times for viewing the film will be updated on the film's website at: http://www.dawnshighway.net/.  A link to the film festival is:  http://www.santafefilmfestival.com/  (thanks, Simone)

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 September 18, 2011     out-of-touch <> Robby & Alice Cooper at Whisky <> my 3rd Doors show <> 'All Wood And Doors'
Apologies for the scarce and delayed news updates recently.  You may be wondering why I have not reported on Robby's guest appearance at the Whisky last week.  I am traveling out of the country and the internet access is not always handy or optimal ... and/or there are better ways to spend my time during this trip.  Some stories will be held until I have more time. Thanks for your patience!

Robby Krieger joined Alice Cooper on stage at the legendary Whisky last Thursday night, September 15.  Alice is in the middle of the "No More Mr. Nice Guy" world tour.  Apparently this is the first time he has performed there since 1969 with Led Zeppelin.  It sounds like it was quite the event, with Alice being joined by musicians as diverse as Steve Hunter, Tommy Henriksen, Orianthi, and Ke$ha.  'Break On Through' and 'Back Door Man' were the songs performed with Robby. In the audience were Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine); Cheech Marin (Cheech & Chong); Paul Stanley, TommyThayer and Eric Singer (KISS); and Ian Astbury (The Cult, and former Doors of the 21st Century vocalist!).  The show was broadcast live on KLOS.  Here are links to the source stories: http://blogs.metrotimes.com/index.php/2011/09/city-slang-alice-cooper-hits-the-whisky/  and   http://www.billboard.com/events/alice-cooper-sticks-with-the-hits-at-nightmare-1005356272.story#/events/alice-cooper-sticks-with-the-hits-at-nightmare-1005356272.story  and  http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/alice-cooper-surveys-rock-history-at-the-whisky-20110916.  Here is an MP3 link on YouTube for 'Back Door Man': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AE8YA_8dPpk&feature=player_embedded. (thanks, Brad and Larry)

My third Doors concert happened 42 years ago on September 19, 1969 at Toppi's Sports Arena in Philadelphia, PA.  I don't remember much, but what I do remember is recalled here.

'All Wood And Doors' is nicely reviewed by The Aquarian Weekly at: http://www.theaquarian.com/2011/09/16/james-lee-stanley-and-cliff-eberhardt-all-wood-and-doors/

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 September 15, 2011     pre-order  L.A. Woman releases <> Jim Marshall photo exhibit
Three L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary releases are now available for pre-order for shipment on or about November 18.  There is a link at the bottom of the page if you have questions (in other words, please don't ask me, I do not have additional info).  Check them out at: http://thedoors.shop.bravadousa.com/Dept.aspx?cp=41800_50796 (thanks, Simone)

An exhibit of Jim Marshall photography opened yesterday in Austin, Texas at the Moody Theater.  The 'Jack & Jim' Gallery (Jack, as in Jack Daniels) will run through fall 2014, so there is plenty of time to catch this.  Read more about it at: http://www.acl-live.com/news/2011/08/26  and watch a video about the exhibit at: http://www.kvue.com/news/local/Jim-Marshalls-photography-collection-to-be-displayed-in-Austin--129790003.html

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 September 14, 2011     Robby on golf & Morrison
Robby Krieger is the subject of a Yahoo Sports interview today.  He talks about his golf game and Jim Morrison.  A nice read.  And get well wishes go out to Uma.  Read it at: http://sports.yahoo.com/golf/pga/news?slug=ma-18holes_arkush_golf_with_krieger091311 (thanks, Beverly and Kurri)

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 September 10, 2011     8512 Santa Monica <> Dennis Jakob book <> 'All Wood & Doors' musician appearances
8512 Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood is seeing new recent activity.  The former location of The Doors Workshop and office has been vacant since last winter when the last occupant, the restaurant 'Mexico', closed for renovations and never re-opened.  Yesterday a fan reported that last week the building was completely covered with a tarp for spray painting.  (Buh-bye to the pink, red & green color scheme, I hope).  Brad mentioned that he has seen some workers there.  The 'For Lease' sign is also gone; it may simply be due to the painting, but the activity suggests there is a new tenant preparing the building.  I can't get there to take photos for several weeks, but I'll share any more info or photos that I get.  Stay tuned!  (thanks, Brad)

The Dennis Jakob book 'Summer With Morrison' IS available in the good old-fashioned soft-cover format.  When I mentioned this earlier in the week, I mis-stated that it was only in E-book form.  I am very happy to stand corrected on this.  The book can be ordered at: http://iondrivepublishing.com/books/summerwithmorrison/summerwithmorrison.html (thanks Simone, Alfredo & Tom)

'All Wood and Doors' musician James Lee Stanley has many personal appearances all around the country scheduled for the balance of this year, some solo and some with Cliff Eberhardt.  James has a new solo CD called 'Backstage at the Resurrection' which has been climbing the internet charts, and 'All Wood and Doors is still charting.  Check the appearance listings at: http://jamesleestanley.com/appearing.html  and/or: http://www.allwoodanddoors.com/appearing.html (thanks, James)

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 September 8, 2011   Robby all-star jam pix <> Dennis Jakob book <> HB2 Waylon
Some photos from the Medlock-Krieger benefit golf tourney and all-star jam last week are shared on this website: http://talentnetworkinc.blogspot.com/2011/09/mark-eddie-at-2011-scott-medlock-and.html  Most of the photos feature Mark Eddie, the comedian / musician who served as emcee for the concert.  This link has also been added to others on my page about the event.

Dennis Jakob's book about Jim Morrison is now available, but it looks like 'Summer With Morrison' is available ONLY as a e-book.  I don't like this trend ... I want to hold a real book when I read.  Anyway, if the name sounds familiar but you don't remember why:  it was Dennis Jakob's rooftop in Venice Beach that Jim was living atop when he and Ray crossed paths on the beach.  According to the product description on Amazon, the book includes 25 never-before-seen photos taken by the author, and a foreword by LA poet Michael C. Ford.  Check it out at: http://www.amazon.com/Summer-With-Morrison-ebook/dp/B005KTOA02/ref=sr_1_21?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1315255039&sr=1-21.  (thanks Gilles, Simone & David).  By the way, that building in Venice at the corner of Speedway and Westminster now calls itself the Morrison Apts., as indicated by this plaque.  I probably have a better photo than this one from 2002, but it will have to do for now.

Waylon Krieger had a birthday on Monday.  Happy belated birthday, Waylon!

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 September 4, 2011   Robby & James Cotton
Robby Krieger performed in Long Beach, CA last night as the special guest of blues harp legend James Cotton at the KJAZZ Blues Bash held at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center.  Very nice venue and easy to get to.  The program opened with a rocking blues set by Texas-based Shawn Pittman.  Next up was the sexy Ana Popovic, who was startling with her blistering guitar work.  She rocked it in a short, sparkly mini-dress that would have matched Robby's sparkly guitar strap.  The third act was Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials.  Lil' Ed was fun to watch; he had some unique foot moves.  Headliner James Cotton is called a super-harp player for good reason.  He had a table full of them, and switched between them frequently to augment the singer's words and emphasis the song stories.  Finally, special guest Robby Krieger was announced.  From the whoops and applause, I was not the only one there to see Robby.  He played on three songs, but they were all nice long jams:  'Baby, Don't You Want To Go';  'Who's Loving You Tonight';  and 'Got My Mojo Workin'.  Robby was wearing one of those colorful pairs of pants from Loudmouth.com (who are sponsors of his annual Medlock-Krieger tourney & concert jam).  James Cotton Band photo  ~  Robby photo

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 September 1, 2011    Robby this weekend <> Ray & Robby in San Franc <> Ray on San Franc show <> Ray & Roy Rogers at Sonora <> Robby's all-star jam re-cap <> Robby at K-JAZZ <> John in a vintage YT video
Robby Krieger appears as special guest with blues man James Cotton this Saturday in Long Beach, CA at the K-JAZZ Blues Fest.  The Long Beach Post ran a story about the event as well as the other scheduled performers.  Read it at: http://www.lbpost.com/life/staffreports/12249

Manzarek-Krieger Band played San Francisco's Regency Ballroom on Saturday, August 20 ... the night after they played the Whisky.  I love the opening lines of this story:  "I never thought that I'd hear those songs played live. Or played that well live."  Here is the review from GuitarPlayer.com: http://www.guitarplayer.com/Default.aspx?tabid=259&EntryId=553

Ray Manzarek appeared on a San Francisco show called 7 Live on Tuesday, in advance of his appearance that evening at Yoshi's in Oakland along with Michael McClure and other musicians.  It's a fun 7-minute interview in front of a live audience.  Check it out at: http://7liveonline.com/video?id=8335786&section=7live

Manzarek-Rogers Band played 'Fire On The Mountain' at the Fairgrounds in Sonora, California on August 13th.  Here is a 15-minute video from that performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONqSwMCM2Pc.

The Robby Krieger all-star jam write-up on Monday night is finally finished.  Phew.  Thanks for your patience.  Read about it here.

This Saturday's K-JAZZ festival is written up in the Cal State Long Beach student publication the Daily 49er.  Robby's appearance with blues man James Cotton is part of the story.  Read it at: http://www.daily49er.com/news/on-campus-kjazz-concert-to-provide-blues-boogies-beats-1.2617949

E Network apparently ran a program about the Oliver Stone film, so clearly the time frame was 1991.  It features John Densmore visiting some of the local Doors landmarks, as well as interviews with members of the film cast talking about the film and their roles.  This YouTube video is 14-1/2 minutes long: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIaxyxyzFR8&feature=player_embedded (thanks, Michele E.)

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 August 31, 2011    this day in Ida's history <> Monday's concert write-up in process
Asbury Park Convention Hall.  August 31, 1968.  Late show.  Ticket price:  $5.50.  One of the pivotal moments in my life.  Life-altering, leading to 43 years of utter devotion and fan-dom, which included four more shows over the next two years.  How lucky am I?  Believe me, I know ... and fans also remind me of that all the time.  All of that eventually led to running this website for the last nine years for the sole purpose of sharing Doors news and stories (and my own Doors encounters and adventures), with Doors fans world-wide.  (I just heard from a fan in Russia yesterday!)  Thanks to all the idafan.com readers and supporters who share my passion for and support of The Doors, collectively and individually.  Over the years many others who were at the same show have let me know they shared the same experience ... that includes my friend Owen Goldman, (another fine product of New Jersey), who is now the stage manager, drum tech and keyboard tech for Manzarek-Krieger and Robby performances.  Small world.

I'm still working on the write-up about Robby's all-star jam on Monday night at the conclusion of the Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger Concert & Golf Classic.  I have people, places & things today, but I am working on it as time allows.  Probably won't finish and upload until tomorrow at the soonest.

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 August 30, 2011    Robby's jam: later <> on this date ... <> Ray & Roy to San Franc
Robby Krieger's all-star jam last night at the conclusion of the Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger Concert & Golf Classic will be written about later.  I have loads of photos to download and pages of scribbled notes to decipher.  And other things to get done today.

Rolling Stone magazine reported on this date in 1973, that The Doors had broken up and that Ray Manzarek was putting together a new band.

Manzarek-Rogers Band play San Francisco at The Showroom on Saturday, October 15.  This is a new venue and their website is not fully on-line yet, but you can check it out at: http://www.theshowroomsf.com/

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 August 27, 2011    Robby's all-star jam on Monday
Robby Krieger will be jamming with a bunch of his all-star friends on Monday night at the conclusion of the Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger Concert & Golf Classic at Moorpark Country Club.  Tickets for the concert are $50. and can be ordered at: http://www.scottmedlockstudios.com/Invitational_Tickets.html  ... but hey, if you are a volunteer, then you are already there!  As of this afternoon they were seeking more volunteers for both shifts:  8am-6pm  or else  4pm to 11pm.  If you think you'd like to help out, contact Susan Hidalgo at (424) 777-5400  or at: susan.hidalgo@stjude.org   She'll set you up and fill you in on the attire requirements for each shift.

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 August 26, 2011    Robby at KLOS <> Ray & Roy in WeHo <> Roy Rogers profile <> LAW 40th Anniversary Edition song list revealed <> vinyl set contents revealed <> 'Gloria' by covers band
Robby Krieger visited with Jim Ladd at KLOS a few weeks ago.  I wasn't listening at the time, but he talked about the upcoming shows at Pacific Amphitheater and the Whisky, the charity golf tourney & concert he co-hosts, and other stuff!  Here is a photo of Robby taken with Jim Ladd and the overnight deejay while there:  http://www.allaccess.com/rock/industry-snap/q/id/3637

Manzarek-Rogers Band play the Viper Room in West Hollywood on Friday, December 16.  For more venue info: http://www.viperroom.com/

Speaking of Roy Rogers, a Tahoe website ran a nice story about him in advance of an upcoming appearance with his band, the Delta Kings.  Roy talks about his collaboration with Ray Manzarek, and also the confusion about his famous name.  Read it at: http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20110825/ENTERTAINMENT/110829957/1058&parentprofile=1058

The Doors Manager Jeff Jampol posted the song listings for the forthcoming 'L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary Edition' 2-CD set on the BMA forum today at: http://www.thedoors.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21343&st=140 (post #158).  Jeff's post stresses that this is NOT the "40th Anniversary Mixes" version, which they are done with.  He adds that this is the Doors Vinyl mastering (with some tweaks) as done by Bruce Botnick, Bernie Grundman and Jac Holzman for The Doors Vinyl Box.  So, here is the long-awaited listing: DISC ONE  1. The Changeling [4:24]   2. Love Her Madly [3:39]   3. Been Down So Long [4:44]   4. Cars Hiss By My Window [4:58]   5. L.A. Woman [7:59]   6. L'America [4:34]   7. Hyacinth House [3:13]   8. Crawling King Snake [5:01]   9. The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat) [4:16]   10. Riders On The Storm [7:08]     DISC TWO  1. The Changeling (alternate version) [4:45]   2. Love Her Madly (alternate version) [3:59]   3. Cars Hiss By My Window (alternate version) [4:42]   4. L.A. Woman (alternate version) [8:50]   5. The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat) (alternate version) [5:37]   6. Been Down So Long (alternate version) [4:53]   7. Riders On The Storm (alternate version) [9:11]   8. She Smells So Nice / Rock Me [4:41/4:30]  [9:11]   (thanks, Gilles)

Then, Jeff Jampol posted the track listings for the forthcoming 'L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary vinyl set.  All these tracks are described as being alternate versions, with studio chatter in between.  SIDE ONE  1. The Changeling   2. Love Her Madly   3. Cars Hiss By My Window   4. L.A. Woman    SIDE TWO   1. The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat)   2. Been Down So Long   3. Riders On The Storm   SIDE THREE  She Smells So Nice/Rock Me  (in which Jim can be heard experimenting with the 'Mr. Mojo Risin' line in different ways and melodies).   SIDE FOUR  NO music.  Side Four will be blank, and will have a "3D-Effect" laser etching double-image of the "Electric Crucified Woman" artwork by Carl Cossick from the original album.  (thanks, Jamie)

The Heist Band. I've never heard of them either, but apparently they are a 'covers band' based here in southern CA.  They get a mention here because of a cool video of them performing a cover of 'Gloria' with a unique twist.  Check out "Van Morrison vs. Jim Morrison - Gloria Live!" at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwnmcO7yIMQ&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL  (thanks, Gilles)

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 August 24, 2011    Robby tourney concert <> Robby & Eric Burdon <> John in MD's video <> Ray & Robby to Mexico <> NO Mexico tour <> Ray & Robby in Frisco
The Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger Invitational Annual Golf & Concert Event is now less than a week away.  Monday's event will benefit the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  The golf tourney will be followed by an all-star jam led by Robby. L.A.'s Daily News ran a story yesterday about the event at: http://www.dailynews.com/sports/ci_18744397.   For more info, to buy concert tickets, to sign up for play, or just to donate to a good cause, go to: http://www.scottmedlockstudios.com/Invitational_Tickets.html

Robby Krieger toured with Eric Burdon in 1990.  I saw one or two shows, but not the free show played right on the beach in Ventura, CA.  I have a lousy quality bootleg of part of that show, so it's great to come across this very good quality 5-minute YouTube video of them doing 'House of the Rising Sun':  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjwdJAKehLI&feature=related

John Densmore is featured in a downloadable video from Judith Orloff, MD.  Apparently Dr. Orloff is a UCLA psychiatrist, intuition expert and best-selling author who relates her own experience using intuition and dreams as key sources of knowledge and insight.  John's role in the video, along with Hani Naser, is to provide live music for centering, relaxation, and igniting intuition.  For more details and ordering info, go to: http://www.drjudithorloff.com/_product_39324/Awaken_Intuition_for_Health%2c_Energy%2c_and_Creativity_-_Video_Download

Manzarek-Krieger Band will return to Mexico for some late November tour dates. 

Information update: Mexico tour dates in November are either cancelled or was misinformation.  Fuhgeddaboutit. 

Manzarek-Krieger Band's performance last Saturday night in San Francisco got a glowing review from a website called thevinyldistrict.com ... check it out, along with some photos, at: http://www.thevinyldistrict.com/sanfrancisco/2011/08/manzarek-krieger-of-the-doors-blow-the-roof-off-the-regency-ballroom-exclusive-photos/

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 August 23, 2011    London Fog recording & pix <> more about London Fog <> Bataclan videos <> Uncut's L.A. Woman issue
The Doors Manager Jeff Jampol posted some exciting news a few days ago on The Doors forum about newly found recordings and photos from the London Fog. Jeff's messages reveal that there is an excellent quality, reel-to-reel recording of the band done by a friend of Ray's from UCLA.  She also helped with an early Doors flyer which promoted folks to come to the London Fog to check out "Ray and Jim's new band!"  This lady also took lots of great quality black & white photos.  Among the songs performed are Little Richard's 'Lucille', which Robby told Jeff he has no recollection of them ever playing, as well as 'Strange Days'!  Apparently on Saturday night at the Manzarek-Krieger show at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, Robby announced during the show that they recently acquired recordings of the London Fog shows which included lots of blues songs.  Robby also said they will be released later this year, but logically that type of release would be held off until at least 2012 so as not to conflict with the L.A. Woman Anniversary releases planned for later this year.  Other news shared by Jeff on the forum concerns a never-before-heard (or known about) Doors song described as a long-ish blues jam called 'She Smells So Nice.'  Jeff says it will be included in several (maybe all) of the L.A. Woman 40th Anniversary packages.  If you have the patience and tolerance to pick your way through the childish bickering on the forum, this information is contained within later pages on the BMA thread titled 'Great News on LA Woman Deluxe' which starts at: http://www.thedoors.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21343&st=0.  If anyone is nice enough to keep me updated on more revelations there, I'll happily share those here.  (thanks, Fred)

More info about that newly surfaced London Fog recording that Doors manager Jeff Jampol posted about on the Doors forum, and shared earlier today here:  it is one 30-minute reel, and will probably be released in 2012.  Better than nothing, and something exciting to look forward to!  (thanks, Fred)

Manzarek-Krieger's performance in Paris at Le Bataclan on July 3, can be enjoyed through a bunch of videos on this site: http://livevideobootlegs.blogspot.com/search/label/Ray%20Manzarek%20and%20Robby%20Krieger  (thanks, Gary)

The September issue of the U.K.'s "Uncut" magazine with the L.A. Woman cover story, has finally surfaced on our shores.  A friend alerted me that he found it in Barnes & Noble in his area, and I had the same luck at my local B&N.   It's nice to see the entire band featured on the cover.  Over the span of 13 pages, Ray, Robby and John talk about Jim's demise, his last testament, L.A. Woman, and the band's long strange afterlife.  Here is the cover to look for:  Uncut Mag Sept 2011 (thanks, Tim)

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 August 22, 2011    Whisky a GoGo last Friday night <> Ray at Mötley Crüe tribute <> Ray & Robby in San Francisco <> Doors Workshop news
Manzarek-Krieger Band's Whisky performance on Friday night is dramatically chronicled by a Hollywood-based Examiner writer named Helen Darras.  All I can say again is thank goodness we got there early and secured our places at the barrier, which gave us open space (and air) in front of us.  Read the story at:  http://www.examiner.com/charity-events-in-los-angeles/whisky-a-go-go-the-doors-ray-manzarek-robby-krieger-helen-darras-collide-review (thanks, Beverly)

Ray Manzarek was part of the tribute to Mötley Crüe on Thursday night at the Sunset House of Blues.  This YouTube video shows a part of his segment, which included playing Riders On The Storm (excerpted in the video):  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sK-RrjccH9Q

Manzarek-Krieger Band's Saturday night sold-out performance at the Regency in San Francisco was re-capped for me by a lucky fan who was there.  Ray shared some comments about venues that they had played there in the 60's.  He also said they went up in January 1967 for the Human Be-In.  The band went on about 9:05 and played the following (possibly not in this exact order):  Roadhouse Blues <> Love Me Two Times <> People Are Strange, complete with a different arpeggio keyboard solo, rather than the record's melody solo (outstanding!) <> Alabama Song <> Crawling King Snake <> Peace Frog <> Blue Sunday <> Break On Through <> When The Music's Over <> Love Her Madly <> Hyacinth House <> 'sex machine' band intros leading into Touch Me <> Changeling with some Chain of Fools, Got My Mojo Working, and Sunshine of Your Love closing out the song <> Not To Touch The Earth <> Riders On The Storm <> Crystal Ship (Robby remarked "that's the first time we've played that!" ... presumably meaning with Dave) <> Soul Kitchen <> L.A. Woman.  It was 10:50 pm and the band left the stage, then they returned for the Light My Fire encore.  (thanks, John)

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 August 22, 2011    Whisky a GoGo last Friday night <> Ray at Mötley Crüe tribute <> Ray & Robby in San Francisco <> Doors Workshop news
Manzarek-Krieger Band's Whisky performance on Friday night is dramatically chronicled by a Hollywood-based Examiner writer named Helen Darras.  All I can say again is thank goodness we got there early and secured our places at the barrier, which gave us open space (and air) in front of us.  Read the story at:  http://www.examiner.com/charity-events-in-los-angeles/whisky-a-go-go-the-doors-ray-manzarek-robby-krieger-helen-darras-collide-review (thanks, Beverly)

Ray Manzarek was part of the tribute to Mötley Crüe on Thursday night at the Sunset House of Blues.  This YouTube video shows a part of his segment, which included playing Riders On The Storm (excerpted in the video):  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sK-RrjccH9Q

Manzarek-Krieger Band's Saturday night sold-out performance at the Regency in San Francisco was re-capped for me by a lucky fan who was there.  Ray shared some comments about venues that they had played there in the 60's.  He also said they went up in January 1967 for the Human Be-In.  The band went on about 9:05 and played the following (possibly not in this exact order):  Roadhouse Blues <> Love Me Two Times <> People Are Strange, complete with a different arpeggio keyboard solo, rather than the record's melody solo (outstanding!) <> Alabama Song <> Crawling King Snake <> Peace Frog <> Blue Sunday <> Break On Through <> When The Music's Over <> Love Her Madly <> Hyacinth House <> 'sex machine' band intros leading into Touch Me <> Changeling with some Chain of Fools, Got My Mojo Working, and Sunshine of Your Love closing out the song <> Not To Touch The Earth <> Riders On The Storm <> Crystal Ship (Robby remarked "that's the first time we've played that!" ... presumably meaning with Dave) <> Soul Kitchen <> L.A. Woman.  It was 10:50 pm and the band left the stage, then they returned for the Light My Fire encore.  (thanks, John)

The Doors Workshop at 8512 Santa Monica Boulevard has new owners, according to a story link at:  http://la.eater.com sent along by a fan. (thanks, Kyle):          

Curious. Close to one year ago came word that Mexico Restaurante Y Barra on Santa Moncia Blvd would shutter and new owners Ryan Allen Carrillo and Andrew Gruver, industry vets, would take over. Quite obviously the venue never reopened and per this ABC listing, yet another owner as stepped up to the plate: Aaron Young associated with the Merle Group LLC. What's going on here? Tips welcome in the comments. [EaterWire]

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 August 21, 2011    Robby & James Cotton <> Ray interview <> Morrison-UCLA news <> RARE Collectors Gallery grand opening
Robby Krieger will be a special guest of James Cotton when he appears on Saturday, September 3 at the KJAZZ Blues Bash at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center on the campus of Cal State Long Beach, CA. I do NOT know (yet) if Robby will be onstage with James Cotton for his entire set, or if he'll be guesting on just a few songs.  If I find out, I'll let you know.  Tickets are available at:  www.jazzandblues.org

Ray Manzarek talks about Roy Rogers and their 'Translucent Blues' CD, his work on the Sly Stone tribute CD, and The Doors in a new interview on The Morton Report at: http://www.themortonreport.com/entertainment/music/ray-manzarek-returns-to-his-roots-with-translucent-blues/

The Jim Morrison scholarship fund at UCLA that I mentioned last Wednesday, IS alive and well.  Two student awards were given out last spring, one for $5,000. and one for $10,000.  How cool to be a recipient and know that some of your tuition and other expenses were defrayed by the Jim Morrison Film Award!  Stay tuned for breaking news and developments about a fundraising campaign and related efforts to establish a Doors museum on the UCLA campus.  (thanks, Michele)

Rock And Roll Emporium (RARE) in Huntington Beach, CA hosted an exhibit of Doors memorabilia in early July, as well as a celebration of Morrison's life on July 5.  I bought some terrific 11x14 photos from them which are now framed and on my wall.  RARE is having a grand opening celebration this Saturday, August 27 at their new Collectors Gallery location in Santa Ana, CA with triple the space of their Huntington Beach store.  The event begins at 7:00 p.m. and will feature a fine art exhibit and appearance by rock photographer Neil Zlozower.  For more info, go to: http://www.therareonline.com/events/rare-new-gallery-grand-opening

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 August 20, 2011    Ray & Robby at Whisky <> R.I.P. to a fellow fan
Manzarek-Krieger Band blew the lid off the Whisky a Go Go on the fabulous Sunset Strip last night, as expected!  It was a great show, and the venue was packed to the rafters, also as expected.  Dave Brock has played the Whisky countless times over the years with Wild Child.  For the last year he has also been touring with Ray and Robby.  So, imagine what a thrill it must've been for him last night, to be standing on that stage with Ray and Robby!!  And it showed:  the band was on fire!  However, the evening did not start off on the highest of notes ... more on that later.  Beverly and I arrived early and were in the will-call line behind just one other couple.  This assured us of a good spot at the barrier in front of the stage.   Opening act Zen Rizing started on time at 8:00, followed by Kathryn Gallagher.  When KLOS deejay Jim Ladd introduced her, he said she is 17 years old and has 130 songs.  She was very impressive!  Jim Ladd returned to the stage at 10:25 to introduce Ray & Robby.   Cameras were strictly prohibited at this show, so there are no performance pix to share.  All I can offer are photos of the marquee, the oversize guitar mounted on the front of the Whisky, and the entrance of the club with the crowd control barriers in place.  That's my friend Beverly standing to the left of the door in front of the plaque.  After the 'O Fortuna' musical intro, the set list was: Roadhouse Blues <> Love Me Two Times <> Alabama Song <> Back Door Man, with some Crawling King Snake inserted <> Strange Days <> Ray & Robby reminisced about the go-go girls in 1966 <> Peace Frog <> Blue Sunday <> Break On Through <> When The Music's Over <> Love Her Madly <> Ray reminisced about when the band was fired from the Whisky <> Robby switched to his Rick Turner guitar for Hyacinth House <> 'sex machine' band intros leading into Touch Me <> Changeling, with some Chain of Fools, Got My Mojo Working, and Sunshine of Your Love closing out the song <> Not To Touch The Earth <> Riders On The Storm <> L.A. Woman (drum tech Owen Goldman on cymbals).  It was 12:20 a.m. and the band left the stage, then returned for the Light My Fire encore.  The show ended at 12:35 a.m.  I am a fan of judicious use of a strobe light; it was used sparingly but appropriately during Strange Days, Break On Through, and a few others.  Here are the set list & ticket stub.

Now, the somber side of this story.  As I said, Beverly and I arrived early and were second in line behind one other couple.  The guy began talking to me, as he recognized me from standing shoulder-to-shoulder at another concert.  We all quickly figured out that it was at a STP show in February.  It was memorable for all of us because of some funny things that happened to & with this guy during that show.  We shared some laughs over that recollection.  Small world!  And here we were again, where we would surely be shoulder-to-shoulder at the front barrier at this show.  After the will-call ticket distribution started and we moved into a second line for entry line-up, he made a fast trip to take the forbidden camera back to his car.  Minutes after he returned to the line ahead of us, he collapsed onto the table where the will-call tickets were, then dropped onto the sidewalk.  A doctor in the crowd and several others administered CPR until the EMT's arrived.  We learned later that evening that he died in the ambulance.  Unbelievable!  We think his name was Jason.  R.I.P., Jason. 

The other Doors news stories can wait until tomorrow.  Carpe diem.

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 August 19, 2011    Ray & Roy in SoCA <> Ray & Roy in NoCA
Manzarek-Rogers Band will play on Wednesday, December 14 at the Belly Up in Solana Beach, CA according to the venue website.  For more info, go to: http://www.bellyup.com/show/detail/49510. 

Manzarek-Rogers Band will play on Friday, December 2 at the Mystic Theater in Petaluma, CA.  For more info: http://www.mystictheatre.com/venue/

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 August 17, 2011    Whisky parking <> Whisky details <> Morrison scholarship fund <> Robby's first painting <> Auction Kings show <> Tom DiCillo blog <> Ray & Robby in Frisco <> L.A. Woman DVD pre-order
Fans planning to attend the Manzarek-Krieger sold-out show at the Whisky this Friday night, may be interested in this guide to parking and/or public transportation for the Sunset Strip Music Festival:  http://www.sunsetstripmusicfestival.com/event-info/parking/   (thanks, Beverly)

Those of us who bought Whisky tix through TicketWeb received an email today with the set times and some other very helpful advance intel.  Will-call ticket distribution begins at 6:00.  (A previous email said will-call would start at 7:00).  There will be 3 lines: A-P TicketWeb purchases and Q-Z TicketWeb purchases will be the two outside lines.  The middle line is for Will Call/Guest List/VIP etc.  Zen Rizing opens at 8:00, followed by Kathryn Gallaher at 9:00.  Ray & Robby & Dave & Ty & Phil take the stage at 10:00.  Questions should be directed to: info@ticketweb.com along with your Confirmation #.

There is new news about the Jim Morrison Scholarship Fund at UCLA.  An alumnus fan named Michele E. from NYC chased it down and has provided updated info about making donations.  If interested, call Brian Rosenberg at 310-206-9660 or email him at: brosenberg@tft.ucla.edu.  Donations should be designated to UCLA's Film Department, Jim Morrison Film Fund (8499).  Payment can only be made with checks or credit cards, there are no on-line payment options.   She also learned about the possibility of a separate fundraising effort to create a Doors Museum next to the Film School on the spot where the old Quonset huts were located.  Michele will share more info as she learns of it.  (thanks, Gilles and Ti)

Robby Krieger's first painting was done for an AIDS auction circa 1993.  He has mentioned this in interviews, but I don't recall if I have ever seen a photo of it before.  That oil on canvas painting is being offered for sale through CraigsList at: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/clt/2552131765.html

Last week I shared a story about a document that the seller, Tattoo Bob, believes is a poem written on a page signed by Jim Morrison.  He offered it for auction thru the Discovery channel show "Auction Kings".  I DVR'd the episode yesterday and just finished watching the results.  The show begins with Tattoo Bob presenting the item and providing its back story, i.e., how he acquired it 20 years ago.  He adds that he received a supportive email from Danny Sugerman.  One of the 'Auction Kings' people is shown trying to compare the signature to others and research value.  In doing so, The Doors Collectors Magazine (www.doors.com) is unmistakably used for some of the research ... anyone familiar with Kerry's website would recognize that screen shot instantly!  Incredibly, the poem (which looked like it was written in black magic marker), sold to a very happy fan for $2,000.  Tattoo Bob said the money was going to go to a dog shelter.  Discovery Channel repeats this episode several times daily on August 18, August 20, August 23 and August 27.  If you don't get that channel, you can see it at this link from last week's story:  http://dsc.discovery.com/videos/auction-kings-jim-morrison-poem.html

Tom DiCillo, writer and director of 'When You're Strange', recently added new blog #94: 'Michael Jackson's Nose' to tell stories about his recent trip to Munich, Germany where the Munich Film Festival presented a retrospective of his films.  There are not stories about WYS, but he's an entertaining storyteller, and the blog contains several interview clips from the festival.  Check it out at: http://www.tomdicillo.com/blog/2011/08/94-michael-jacksons-nose/.

Manzarek-Krieger Band plays Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on Saturday night.  KTVU.com has a preview story about the band.  Read it at: http://www.ktvu.com/entertainment/28898253/detail.html

"The Doors:  Mr. Mojo Risin: The Story of L.A. Woman" DVD is now available for pre-order through Amazon.com.  The release date is November 8: http://www.amazon.com/Doors-Mojo-Risin-Story-Woman/dp/B005DJ62MS/ref=sr_1_2?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1313514057&sr=1-2 (thanks, Gilles)

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 August 15, 2011    artist Stephan Beauvais <> Zappa on Morrison <> vote for Robby re-prints <> Robby's tourney all-star jam <> Ray in new weed docu
Parisian artist Stephan Beauvais was spotlighted here last week for his terrific paintings of The Doors.  At that time, they could only be seen on his Facebook account.  Stephan has let me know that he now has a blog at: http://stephanbeauvais.blogspot.com/.  All the paintings are for sale.  Prints signed on giclee can be purchased after August 20, 2011.  (thanks, Stephan)

Jim Morrison was discussed by Frank Zappa in Part Two of his first interview with Guitar World back in 1982.  It has been reprinted on Guitar World's website at: http://www.guitarworld.com/frank-zappa-talks-music-money-and-steve-vai-his-first-guitar-world-interview-1982-part-2

Guitar World Magazine is polling readers to help them decide which vintage stories to post on GuitarWorld.com.  You can take the poll and vote for Robby Krieger re-prints at:  http://www.guitarworld.com/poll-which-1983-guitar-world-story-do-you-want-read.

The Robby Krieger all-star concert jam closes out the annual Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger Concert & Golf Classic at Moorpark Country Club in Moorpark, CA.  This year's event happens on Monday, August 29 and benefits St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  Fans who want to attend the concert that night can buy tickets through the event website at: http://www.scottmedlockstudios.com/Invitational_Tickets.html.   Scroll all the way down to the "All-Star Benefit Concert Tickets" line.   Here is the story I wrote about last year's concert.    

Ray Manzarek is featured in a "A NORML Life", a new documentary on the legalization of marijuana.  According to the story on celebstoner.com, "The most unusual and surprising interview is with Doors co-founder and keyboardist Ray Manzarek, who attended the 2008 NORML Conference in Berkeley. Check out the Manzarek extra in which, among other things, he expounds on marijuana's influence on the Doors."  Read the full story at: http://www.celebstoner.com/201108158103/stoner-movies/recent-stoner-movies/a-norml-life.html

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 August 13, 2011    John at orangutan benefit <> Ray & Robby at Pac Amp
John Densmore recently attended an annual fundraiser in Toluca Lake, CA to benefit the Orang Utan Republik Education Initiative, a program which began in 2004 to help save the endangered orangutans of Indonesia by saving their forest home, the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra.  Read the full story at:  http://studiocity.patch.com/articles/celebs-help-the-orang-utan-republik-foundation-in-toluca-lake

Manzarek-Krieger Band played Pacific Amphitheater in Costa Mesa, CA a week ago Friday night.  A review of that show along with some photos is now on the KLOS 95.5 website.  The station's Jim Ladd introduced the band that evening.  Check it out at:  http://www.955klos.com/Article.asp?id=2256585&spid=24575

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 August 10, 2011   Ray honors Mötley Crüe <> new docu in the works <> July 3 Facebook page <> new Morrison poem (maybe)
Ray Manzarek is scheduled to be one of the speakers when Mötley Crüe is honored as the 2011 recipient of the 'Elmer Valentine Award' for their contributions to the history of the Sunset Strip.  This award ceremony and tribute happens on Thursday, August 18 at the House of Blues Sunset Strip and is hosted by Bob Buchman from KLOS and Kennedy from 987fm.  Other scheduled speakers include comedian Dane Cook and author Neil Strauss.  This tribute kicks off the 4th annual three-day music celebration known as the Sunset Strip Music Festival.  Red carpet arrivals begin at 6:00 p.m.  The next night is when Ray and Robby and band blow the roof off the Whisky at that sold-out show on Friday, August 19.  (thanks, George)

'The Terror of Art: The Legacy of The Doors' is a documentary currently underway by Peter Leiss and Jim Coke.  They have lined up a number of people to interview and will keep me posted on its progress.  You can check out his website at: http://www.peterleiss.com/ and for more current trailers and projects, check out YouTube user name: beforelaw.  (thanks, Peter) 

There is a Facebook page dedicated to the 40th anniversary of Jim Morrison's death on July 3rd.  Check it out at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/3-Luglio-2011-Jim-Morrison-40-Anniversario/143265462415193  (thanks, Simone)

A signed Jim Morrison poem that has not yet been 'authenticated' is featured in a clip from the Discovery Channel reality TV show 'Auction Kings'.  You have to endure a brief commercial before you can watch the clip, which reveals this item was found in a storage unit by a homeless Desert Storm vet who lived in the unit for a month.  Check it out at:  http://dsc.discovery.com/videos/auction-kings-jim-morrison-poem.html

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 August 9, 2011    Ty Dennis interview <> 'All Wood And Doors' tour dates <> Facebook artist to check out
Drummer Ty Dennis is interviewed in the current issue of Drumhead Magazine (cover: Harvey Mason).  This is the cover. Ty has been drumming behind Ray and Robby since early 2003, when he replaced Stewart Copeland.  Prior to that, Ty was part of Robby Krieger's solo touring band.  He knows his stuff.

'All Wood And Doors' musicians James Lee Stanley and Cliff Eberhardt have some joint appearances in New York in November, and CA & AZ in early December.  They are added to the calendar below.  All tour info can be found at: http://www.allwoodanddoors.com/appearing.html. James Lee Stanley also has some solo appearances listed. 

Stephan Beauvais is an artist in Paris, France whose colorful, whimsical, intricate (and trippy!) paintings of Ray, Robby, John and Jim and others can be seen in his Facebook photo album called "doors and friends".   Just log in and search on his name to check them out.  I understand he sells prints.  (thanks to Paul, Beverly and others)

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 August 8, 2011    Ray & Robby at Pac Amp <> Ray & McClure <> YouTube vids of Pac Amp <> Greil Marcus book <> Robby artwork
Manzarek-Krieger Band played the Pacific Amphitheater in Costa Mesa, CA on Friday night.  Dave Brock of Wild Child was the vocalist, and the band line-up was completed by long-time drummer Ty Dennis and long-time bassist Phil Chen.  I forgot to mention that Jim Ladd from KLOS introduced the show.  We had great seats but as luck would have it, a tall asshole who stood in front of me most of the night (and would not even remove his damn hat) blocked my sightlines and harshed my mellow.  Many spoiled photos resulted, but I managed to get some semi-decent ones.  Here are 16 photos.

Ray Manzarek and Michael McClure perform "an evening of sophisticated anti-politics, elegant improvisation, American haiku, and jazz-drenched dharma boogie"!  They will be accompanied by saxophonist George Brooks, bassist Kai Eckhardt, and drummer Jay Lane.  This all happens this week on Wednesday, August 10 at 142 Throckmorton Theatre in Mill Valley, CA.  For venue and ticket info, go to: http://www.142throckmortontheatre.com/event.php?eventid=1476.  Read a preview interview with Ray at: http://millvalley.patch.com/articles/for-ray-manzarek-the-fire-stays-lit.

Manzarek-Krieger's performance at Pacific Amphitheater is captured on some good quality YouTube videos submitted by user floreed2.  Check them out at: http://www.youtube.com/user/floreed2

Greil Marcus, legendary rock critic and journalist, will release a new hardcover book, 224 pages, about The Doors on November 1.  'The Doors:  A Lifetime of Listening to Five Mean Years' lays claim to being the first to bypass their myth, their mystique, and the death cult of both Jim Morrison and the era he was made to personify, and focus solely on the music.  To Marcus, the Doors’ ghostly compulsion today is as powerful as when they first emerged in L.A. in 1966.  He dramatizes how their music still shimmers with the dread that in their time hovered over a country convulsed by assassination and war, as well as a city terrorized by the specter of the Manson murders.  Here's an advance link to the book release: http://www.publicaffairsbooks.com/publicaffairsbooks-cgi-bin/display?book=9781586489458&cover=hc  (thanks, Lindsay) 

Robby Krieger's artwork is included in an upcoming Daytona Beach, Florida exhibit called "105.9 SUNNY FM Rock Art Show".   The exhibit takes place at the Daytona Beach Kennel Club & Poker Room and will feature original art, lithographs, photographs, concert posters, gold records, album art and more from Robby and other classic performers such as Paul McCartney, Jerry Garcia, John Entwistle, Jimi Hendrix, Ron Wood, Bob Dylan, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Carlos Santana, Tony Bennett, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, U2, John Mellencamp, and dozens more.  There will also be rare rock photographs that will include The Doors, The Police, Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Bon Jovi, and Bruce Springsteen.  The Rock Art Show is free and open Friday, August 26 thru Sunday, August 28.  For more info and specific times each day, go to: http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_music_blog/2011/08/famous-beatles-animator-on-guest-list-for-rock-art-show-in-daytona-beach.html

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 August 6, 2011    Ray & Robby last night <> John in environmental coalition <> Ray & Roy in Fargo <> slot machine theme
Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger and Dave Brock and Ty Dennis and Phil Chen, were all fabulous at last night's sold-out show at the Pacific Amphitheater in Costa Mesa, CA.  But then, you already knew I was going to say that, didn't you?  ;=)   I can be predictable about certain things, but there is a great review in the Orange County Register at:  http://soundcheck.ocregister.com/2011/08/06/pacific-2011-revisiting-l-a-woman-40-years-on/57587/. There is a link to a slide show of pix from the show, but for my taste it's too heavy on photos of fans instead of the musicians.  The band took to the stage at 8:25.  As described in the review, the set list was: (O Fortuna) <> Roadhouse Blues <> Love Me Two Times <> Break On Through <> The WASP <> Back Door Man, with Waylon Krieger & Adrian Young <> Love Her Madly <> Peace Frog <> Blue Sunday <> When The Music's Over <> band introductions <> Crawling King Snake with Waylon <> Hyacinth House (stunning!) <> Been Down So Long <> Changeling, with some Chain of Fools, Got My Mojo Workin', and Sunshine of Your Love added in <> Not To Touch The Earth (interrupted by a dancing invader from the audience, promptly tackled and removed) <> 'sex machine' intros <> Touch Me <> L.A. Woman.  The encore was Light My Fire.  The show ended at 10:20, past the 10:00 curfew, so maybe there is a later curfew for Friday and Saturday shows.  I might post some photos later.  If you were there last night, let me know what you thought of it.  Maybe I'll share a few of the comments.

John Densmore is mentioned in a story about Green Music Group or GMG, a coalition of musicians, industry leaders and music fans that facilitates large-scale greening of the music community encompassing all aspects including touring, venue standards, transportation, and grassroots initiatives.  It's an interesting story.  John is mentioned in context of having launched the Global Cool climate change campaign to reduce carbon emissions, along with Perry Farrell and actor Josh Hartnett.  Read the story at:  http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/310012#ixzz1UI01g4WU.

Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers played the Fargo Blues Festival in North Dakota on July 29th.  Here is a link to photos from that show:  http://www.chuckryanphotography.com/p813664288.

Mojo Risin is a slot machine theme at the Fiesta Henderson Casino in Henderson, Nevada.  This machine is adjacent to Bruce Lee and John Wayne celebrity themes, so it's a safe bet this title is meant to evoke Jim.  Wisely, manufacturer WMS did not use an image that even remotely resembles Jim:  photo1  ~~  photo2  (thanks, Jason) 

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 August 5, 2011    Ray interview
Ray Manzarek and guitarist Roy Rogers will perform at 'Fire On The Mountain' at the Fairgrounds in Sonora, California a week from tomorrow, on August 13.  The Modesto Bee printed an interview with Ray, which can be read at: http://www.modbee.com/2011/08/03/1802168/manzarek-rogers-ready-to-give.html.   The event website is: http://fireonthemountain.com/?cat=7

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 August 4, 2011    Ray & Roy tonight <> Ray & Robby tomorrow night <> Robby on radio <> Robby's tourney & concert
Ray Manzarek and guitarist Roy Rogers will be performing tonight at the Calgary Blues Festival  http://www.calgarybluesfest.com/.  An interview with the Calgary Herald ran yesterday, and can be read at: http://www.calgaryherald.com/entertainment/Manzarek+still+breaking+through/5201536/story.html

Manzarek-Krieger with Dave Brock on vocals, perform tomorrow night at the terrific Pacific Amphitheater venue in Costa Mesa, CA, located within the Orange County Fairgrounds. FINALLY ... it has seemed like forever since they have played local shows together ... October 2009, to be exact.  This venue seats about 8,500 and a quick check on available seating shows this show is almost sold out.  Sound quality is great and there are high-quality large screens to watch.  If you plan to attend, be sure to allow plenty of extra time due to Friday night fair-goers traffic.  Tickets say show time is 8:15.  There is no opening act, and shows start pretty much on-time due to a 10:00 curfew by agreement with the surrounding neighborhood.  Concert tickets include free admission to the fair, if you want to get there early.  However, if you will be looking for 'healthy' food, you may want to find someplace to eat before you arrive there! http://www.pacamp.com/pa/schedules/2011/rr_doors.asp

Robby Krieger was a guest on Jim Ladd's radio program last night on 95.5 KLOS, according to a post on KLOS's Facebook page.  I did not hear it so I can't report on the conversation.  However, if you follow this link to Jim Ladd's website, you'll find a 2-minute clip from a local TV station that shows Jim Ladd visiting and reminiscing about Barney's Beanery, which apparently had its 90th birthday recently! http://955klos.com/showdj.asp?DJID=1579&pt=jimladd  (thanks, Beverly) 

Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger's fourth annual Invitational Golf & Concert takes place on Monday, August 29 in Moorpark, CA, and this year benefits the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.  If you'd like to participate, sponsor, donate, or just attend the all-star concert that evening, this story gives more info: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2011/aug/02/all-tourney-proceeds-going-to-st-judes/?partner=yahoo_feeds  and the official site at: http://www.medlockkriegerinvitational.com/

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 August 3, 2011     Jac Holzman interview
Elektra Records founder Jac Holzman will be interviewed by former Elektra Chairman Joe Smith at Cleveland's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Wednesday, August 10 at 7:00 p.m.  This event is already at capacity, but the interview will be streamed on-line at: http://rockhall.com/.  This program sounds similar to the enjoyable one at L.A.'s Grammy Museum last November, which also included Ray Manzarek.  For more info on this program, go to: http://rockhall.com/event/HOF-Holzman-Smith/

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 August 2, 2011     Ray & Robby pix from Italy <> Ray & Robby interview in Italy <> Ray & Benno reminisce <> 'Month of Giving' <> 'SKE' in NY <> Clearwater, FL
Manzarek-Krieger Band played two shows in Italy the weekend of July 9 and July 10.  Follow these links to see photos from both shows.  Pistoia: http://www.doorscollectors.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=879     Grado: http://www.doorscollectors.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=880   Photos credit: Antea Salmaso  (thanks, Simone)

Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger were interviewed for Corriere TV prior to playing the Pistoia Blues Festival in Italy on July 9.  It runs just under five minutes.  Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpN9gm33NJY&feature=player_embedded (thanks, Gilles)

Ray Manzarek and Marc Benno share remembrances of Jim Morrison in a 2-page article near the back of the August issue of Goldmine magazine (cover: Buffalo Springfield).  The article is called 'Opening A Door to the Past'.  By the way, if you follow the link and scroll down the page, you can vote in a poll asking "Which member of the '27 Club' represents the greatest loss to the music world?" http://www.goldminemag.com/  Currently, Morrison is in 2nd place behind Hendrix.  (thanks, Tim)

The Doors are participating in the 'Month Of Giving' in support of the George Harrison Fund for UNICEF and UNICEF's work for children in support of the current emergency in the Horn of Africa.  Learn more about the effort and the other artists participating at:  http://www.theconcertforbangladesh.com/monthofgiving/

'Strange Kozmic Experience' exhibit is currently on display at The Museum at Bethel Woods in New York.  Here is a story about the exhibit: http://www.chronogram.com/issue/2011/8/Arts+%26+Culture/Strange-Kozmic-Experience-at-Bethel-Woods-Museum?page=1

The Clearwater, Florida address where Jim Morrison's grandparents once lived was torn down a few years back to make way for a proposed condo project.  According to a fan who checked out the area recently, that condo project fell through and the land was purchased by the Church Of Scientology.  The entire area is now fenced off.  Although the actual former site of the house is not visible in the photos, here are several pix of the property.  photo1  <>  photo2 (thanks, James)

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 July 29, 2011     John as film's Co-Exec Producer <> Robby's LMF <> Ray & Roy in Fargo <> Uncut magazine <> Jim's grave 1971
John Densmore is Co-Executive Producer and investor in the film 'Napoleonic' starring Ty Granderson Jones.  I recognize this gentleman's name and face, as he often attended the Doors trial in 2004.  Anyway, there is a profile of this actor and the story behind the film at:  http://www.canyon-news.com/artman2/publish/On_the_Industry_1168/An_Interview_With_Ty_Granderson_Jones.php.  At the end of the story is mention of a possibility of reviving 'Window Of Opportunity', another play that John was involved in as Producer.  That 2006 project can be re-visited through this story from the L.A. Times Calendar in 2006.

Robby Krieger's classic 'Light My Fire' is reminisced about on the Gibson website's 'This Day in Music Spotlight' feature today.  As he so often does, Robby gives a lot of credit to Jose Feliciano's arrangement.  Personally, I never cared for that version; I think Robby is being much too humble!  He wrote an unforgettable song that has never become tiresome!  The picture sleeve used in the story is on the Hit-ton label from Germany:  LMF b/w Crystal Ship.  I'm happy to have one of those in my own collection.  Read the story at: http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/spotlight-0729-2011/

Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers are today's opening day headliner for the Fargo Blues Festival in Fargo, North Dakota.  Read the full story including the rest of the line-up at:   http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/328500/group/Life/.

'L.A. Woman' is the cover story of the newest issue of the U.K.'s "Uncut" magazine.  It's nice to see the entire band featured on the cover.  Inside the issue, Ray, Robby and John talk exclusively about Jim's demise, his last testament, L.A. Woman, and the band's long strange afterlife.  Check out the cover at: http://www.uncut.co.uk/magazine  (thanks, Gilles)

Here is a photo of Jim Morrison's grave in August 1971 that I've never seen before.  Photo credit is unknown, as is the person pictured, but my invaluable friend Gilles Yepremian sent it along to share:  grave August 1971.  I have lots of photos taken over the years beginning in 1975, both my own and shared by friends and family.  It's really interesting to see the transformation from one photo to another.  One of these days I'll share them.  All I need is time.  (thanks, Gilles)

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 July 26, 2011     Robby & Medlock tourney <> Robby tourney in OR <> Morrison oversees meetings
Robby Krieger and Scott Medlock host the Scott Medlock & Robby Krieger Invitational on Monday, August 29 at Moorpark Country Club in Moorpark, CA to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  The event will be followed by a VIP all-star jam led by Robby that evening.  For more info, to sign up for play, or just to donate to a good cause, go to: http://www.medlockkriegerinvitational.com/  If you just want to attend the concert that evening, tickets are $50.

Robby Krieger is an announced player in another celebrity golf tournament this weekend, the 2011 Pacific University Legends Golf Classic.  This is co-hosted by KISS lead guitarist Tommy Thayer at The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club.  Sunday night is the dinner, auction and a jam session in Beaverton, OR with Robby and other musicians including Don Felder, Danny Seraphine, and Darius Rucker.  For more info, go to: http://www.pacificu.edu/legendsgolf/

A wall-size image of Jim Morrison adorns a meeting room that is believed to be at the Hard Rock in San Diego.  This photo was found on Facebook by a friend; it appears on the FB page of someone named Adam Gimbel, but the actual photo credit is uncertain.  (thanks, Steve)

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 July 25, 2011    Sniffen Court <> Morrison webinar <> Feelies cover Doors TIAIC <> John is on Facebook
The 'Strange Days' album cover was photographed in New York City at a 'private alley' called Sniffen Court.  A long-time Doors friend and fan visited the location on Saturday.  While he was standing outside of the locked gate, a woman came out and agreed to take a few pix of him inside the alley.  She said she had lived there about four years and was aware of the album cover story, and added 'you would be surprised' at how many Doors fans come by there.  I may be unable to get the photos from his phone to post, so instead here is a link to a story I shared on this site in 2006.  In addition, here is a more recent story about the locale from 2010:  http://ephemeralnewyork.wordpress.com/2010/01/07/strange-days-in-sniffen-court/ (thanks, Chris)

The Jim Morrison 'webinar' conducted by David Shiang on July 3rd is available in a 2-part replay at: http://www.mediafire.com/?bsqir2ktbao2a.   Later, David will send me info about a Doors teleseminar that is going to be this coming Tuesday (tomorrow?  not sure!).  Stay tuned.  (thanks, David)

'Take It As It Comes' was covered by The Feelies on Saturday when they performed at the 'Celebrate Brooklyn 2011' festival.  Nice choice!  (thanks, H P)

John Densmore is now on Facebook!  In an opening statement on his wall, John says:  Ok, admittedly I'm rather late on coming out of my tech-dinosaur phase, but I'm ready to embrace my fans....I mean "friends," in a new way. I'm still rabid for doing new writing and music, so welcome aboard. And thanks for supporting me... it means a lot. We will have much to talk about in the next few years. On the front burner, and most important to me, is my second memoir which has been in the oven for many years and WILL be born early next year. Let's stay connected!! john densmore    The direct link to John's Facebook page is: http://www.facebook.com/pages/John-Densmore/125291304221701 (thanks, Jim)

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 July 23, 2011    Ray & Robby in Belgium <> Ray & Robby in Switzerland <> 'Gloria' in Moscow <> Ray & Robby in Paris <> Henry Diltz profiled <> odd Amazon.com offerings
Manzarek-Krieger played Blues Peer Festival in Peer, Belgium last Sunday.  Here is a link to a news story with a brief clip along with Robby.  The news story is in Dutch, but Robby is speaking in English!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHMn-_nzXBA (thanks, George)

Manzarek-Krieger Band played Grand Casino De Bale in Basel, Switzerland on Wednesday.  Here are some photos and clips from that show.  Basel ticket & RK guitar picks:  photo  ~ <> ~  set list  ~ <> ~  Robby & Dave Brock during BOT solo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsdAXFnEXic  ~ <> ~  Robby, Phil Chen & Dave Brock during LAW intro:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HOgROYArI8  ~ <> ~  fan jumping onstage during Ray's LMF solo:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbb4p5nEmfM   This fan has a lot more good quality videos on his YT account, if you want to check those out.  (thanks, Alfredo)

'Gloria' was a rare set list inclusion when Ray and Robby played Crocus City Hall in Moscow on July 7th.  I have not seen a good quality video, but this excerpt at least gives a taste of the audio: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAkgd3GYkEI.  (thanks, Jan)

Manzarek-Krieger Band kicked off their 3-week 2011 European summer tour in Paris on July 3rd.  Here are two links to Spanish language blogs about that day's events.  Even if you are not Spanish-fluent, there are photos to look at:  http://guti-lachispaadecuada.blogspot.com/2011/07/jim-morrison-40-aniversario.html  ~ <> ~  http://guti-lachispaadecuada.blogspot.com/2011/07/40-aniversario-muerte-jim-morrison.html  (thanks, Guti)

Henry Diltz, legendary to Doors fans for the Morrison Hotel album cover he photographed (plus so many more), is nicely profiled in this story:  http://northhollywood.patch.com/articles/henry-diltz-legendary-photographer-looks-back-on-career

More book news. This one is odd:  a Kindle e-book version of Jim Morrison's Death Certificate.  OMG.  If you need this in your life, go to: http://www.amazon.com/Jim-Morrison-Death-Certificate-ebook/dp/B004WSQDKW/ref=sr_1_144?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1311369193&sr=1-144.  This one is likewise curious:  it seems to be a Spanish-language 24-page paperback book about The Doors sourced from Wikipedia: http://www.amazon.com/Doors-Canciones-Morrison-Manzarek-Perception/dp/1231455292/ref=sr_1_141?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1311369024&sr=1-141   (thanks, Gilles)

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 July 19, 2011     another Doors billboard <> Zia Manzarek mystery solved
On July 14th I shared photos of a Doors billboard for radio station 100.3 'The Sound' spotted by a fan near Sepulveda Boulevard in L.A.  Last night I spotted another one, this one featuring the L.A. Woman cover.  Very cool.  It is visible from the southbound 5 Freeway in Orange County, between the Valley View and Artesia exits.  I wonder if all six albums are represented around the greater L.A. area on 100.3 The Sound billboards.  LAW billboard.

Have you ever heard of Zia Manzarek?  Every so often I see a story or get asked if it's true that Ray and Dorothy have two sons, Pablo and Zia.  Huh?  Has anyone ever heard Ray talk about a second son named Zia?  Would Ray forget to mention Zia in his autobiography?  Yet, this misconception exists out there in cyberspace.  A fan from England raised the question again recently and included a link to the source of the Zia Manzarek thing.  I decided to get to the bottom of this, and contacted Pablo Manzarek to ask about that photo.  Pablo explained that Zia Fiorella was his best friend growing up through their elementary school days.  Zia was with them all the time and considered one of the family, but he is not Pablo's brother.  Let's put this rumor to rest:  maybe someone can let that website know so the description info can be corrected. That'd be great.  That error notwithstanding, this website has some terrific photos of Ray & Dorothy and Pablo & the family.  Check it out at: http://xbreak-on-throughx.piczo.com/?g=56038735&cr=5 Thanks to Lindsey in England for bringing up the topic, and to Pablo for setting the record straight for us.  Pablo is unable to explain for us, 'Princess' in Oliver Stone's film. ;=)

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 July 18, 2011     Ray & Robby in Tilburg pix <> more Tilburg <> Ray & Robby at Pistoia <> Ray & Robby in Grado <> Bill Siddons interview <> 'All Wood and Doors' interview <> lame movie trailer
Manzarek-Krieger Band played Popcentrum 013 in Tilburg, The Netherlands on Saturday night.  A lucky fan who was there has sent a link to photos on Flickr taken by Marco Maas:   http://www.flickr.com/photos/moaske/sets/72157627091649077/  The fan reports that the band had a lot of fun onstage, including laughing at the Dutch coffee shops 'where they sell fine coffee'.  Ray told the story of running into Morrison on the beach as the lead-in to Moonlight Drive.  Robby had some guitar problems, so Spanish Caravan got pushed back further into the set.  He also shared the set list which I'll list only once, in the next story.  (thanks, Roland)

Another lucky fan who was at 013 in Tilburg, The Netherlands on Saturday night has sent along comments and the set list to share.  He described the acoustics in the venue as wonderful, and said each and every song was a highlight and sounded brilliant.  At one point, Ray asked for a spotlight on his brother Rick, who was having his birthday that day.  His brother, of course, was the Rick in Rick and the Ravens.  This fan wants to give very special recognition to Dave Brock, who he described as performing with great voice, timing and stage presence.  The set list is as follows:  O Fortuna; Roadhouse Blues; Break On Through; Changeling (+ Got My Mojo Working inserted); When The Music's Over; Love Me Two Times; Hyacinth House; Alabama Song; Moonlight Drive w/ Horse Latitudes; Wild Child-intro; Robby's Russian Caravan solo from 'Singularity'; Spanish Caravan; Not To Touch The Earth; Touch Me; L.A. Woman; encore: Riders On The Storm; Light My Fire.  (thanks, Dennis)

Manzarek-Krieger Band played Pistoia Blues Festival in Italy a week ago, on July 9.  If you are Italian-fluent, here are links to four stories or reviews:  http://www.outune.net/livetune/concerti/manzarek-krieger-of-the-doors-pistoia-blues-9-luglio-2011/23684  ~ <> ~  http://iltirreno.gelocal.it/pistoia/cronaca/2011/07/10/news/rissa-e-feriti-per-vedere-i-doors-4591132  ~ <> ~  http://www.newnotizie.it/2011/07/11/pistoia-blues-immensi-doors-pessima-lorganizazzione-photogallery/  ~ <> ~  http://firenze.repubblica.it/cronaca/2011/07/10/news/cinquemila_in_delirio_a_pistoia_per_i_settantenni_ex_doors-18943425/   (thanks, Simone)

Manzarek-Krieger Band played Diga Nazario Sauro in Grado, Udine, Italy the next day, on July 10.  The lucky fan who attended both shows reports that this one was much better than Pistoia, and sent me this set list for Grado:  Roadhouse Blues; Break On Through; Strange Days; When The Music's Over; Peace Frog/Blue Sunday; Love Me Two Times; Alabama Song; Back Door Man (with Crawling King Snake and Ray's improv); Five To One; Love Her Madly; Not To Touch The Earth; instrumental improv; Touch Me; L.A. Woman;  encore:  Light My Fire.  (thanks, Simone)

Bill Siddons managed The Doors 'back in the day'.  He will forever be known as the person who flew to Paris after Morrison's death without viewing the body, which fueled decades of speculation that Morrison might still be alive somewhere.  Siddons was interviewed a few days ago in support of the MusicCares Foundation.  MusicCares operates an addiction recovery program for musicians at any stage of their career.  Read the interview, which includes several video clips, at the MusicCares blog at: http://blog.musicares.com/2011/07/14/the-doors-jim-morrison-drug-use-early-death/

'All Wood and Doors' musician James Lee Stanley gave a lengthy interview about that CD project, which has contributions from Robby Krieger and John Densmore, to article author Tim O'Shea for BlogCritics.org.  He also discusses his latest solo CD, 'Backstage at the Resurrection'.  Read it at: http://blogcritics.org/music/article/interview-musician-james-lee-stanley-on/.  Visit the website for the recording at: