Other Voices / Full Circle

This European import CD contains both Doors' LPs Other Voices (1971) and Full Circle (1972). John Densmore (drums/vocals), Ray Manzarek (keyboards/bass pedals/vocals) and Robbie Krieger (guitar/vocals) anticipated having new material readied once Jim Morrison returned from his sabbatical in Paris, France. As his vocals would not be forthcoming, the remaining three-piece lineup forged ahead to complete the tracks. With stylistic continuity bleeding over from L.A. Woman, Other Voices is considered the most cohesive of the pair with primary entries including the blues-fuelled opener "In the Eye of the Sun" and the esoteric love song "Ships w/ Sails". Listen for guest musicians Ray Neapolitan (electric bass), Willie Ruff (standup acoustic bass} and Francisco Aguabella's unmistakable conga and percussion. The Doors prove their capabilities as a no-nonsense rock and roll trio on the raucous "Tightrope Ride". Manzarek does a tremendous job on Krieger's humbling "Wandering Musician", exemplifying a versatility that was often overshadowed in The Doors' earlier configuration. Like the aforementioned "Tightrope Ride," the concluding cut "Hang On To Your Life" bears philosophical queries that could be rooted in Morrison's conspicuous absence. Other Voices made it into the Top 40 pop album charts, although Full Circle (1972) -- the last full-length effort from Densmore, Krieger and Manzarek -- did not. One reason commonly cited when contrasting the two post-Morrison platters is Full Circle' s comparatively shorter and less productive maturation process. There are a couple of excellent cuts, such as "Verdilac". It is one of two selections with guest Charles Lloyd (flute/tenor sax) who also contributes to "The Piano Bird". The latter was written by Manzarek and bassist Jack Conrad. One incidental side note, still unissued in the digital domain is the Full Circle era b-side title "Tree Trunk" -- which could only be found on UK editions of the "Get Up And Dance" 45 rpm. ~ Lindsay Planer, All Music Guide