Classic Albums

The Doors' eponymous debut album alone assures them a place in rock and roll history. Together with the voice and lyrics of Jim Morrison this mix of blues, rock and jazz has made it one of the greatest debuts ever. In less than a year after its release, the Doors would go from Los Angeles favourites to one of the biggest bands in the world.

With the use of interviews, musical demonstration, rare archive footage and live performances, the documentary tells the story behind the conception and recording of the album and the creation of their distinctive trademark sound, and charts the transition of Jim Morrison from reticent vocalist to one of the most electrifying and sexually-charged performers in rock music.

Ray Manzarek, Robbie Krieger and John Densmore, the surviving members of the Doors, share memories of the band's early days and the making of the album, and throw light on to living with the lyrical genius Jim Morrison.

Other contributors include manager Bill Siddons, beat poet Michael McClure, record company guru Jac Holzman, musicians Henry Rollins and Perry Farrell and Los Angeles DJ Jim Ladd, who add insight to the Doors as musicians, composers and leaders of a generation.

Bruce Botnick, the engineer on every Doors album, examines the original multi-track tapes and gives a guide through the recording process of such classic songs as Break on Through, Light My Fire, End of the Night, Alabama Song, The Crystal Ship, Back Door Man, Soul Kitchen and The End.