|
Philadelphia Tower Theater April 26, 2003 |
|
The Tower Theater is an old theater just outside of Philadelphia
city proper in a town called Upper Darby. About 3300 of the
3500 seats were filled on this particular Saturday night. My ticket
price was $95.
The Doors 21st Century took the stage about 40 minutes late at 8:40 p.m. with the introduction: "Ladies and Gentlemen, from Los Angeles, California, THE DOORS!" Seconds later Robby Krieger's guitar licks signalled the intro to “Roadhouse Blues.” Then came an electrifying version of “Break On Through (To the Other Side).” Next, a nice long psychedelic version of “When The Music's Over” with a sweet Alesis keyboard organ intro. I prefer the old Vox Continental sound myself but I guess no one is playing those old relics anymore. That song was followed by “Love Me Two Times,” “Moonlight Drive,” a powerful version of “Wild Child” as only Ian Astbury could sing it, and “Alabama Song (Whiskey Bar)” which lead into “Back Door Man” as usual. The only new song followed. I think it's called "Cops Talk." Then Ray Manzarek took time out to talk politics calling George W. Bush a fascist--a controversial statement considering the current popularity of our President. This provoked some booing but most of the crowd seemed to agree with Ray. Then it was on with the show. “Five to One” was up next followed by “Maggie M'Gill” and an extended version of “Spanish Caravan.” The rest of the band left the stage while Robby played a flamenco guitar solo. He was then rejoined for an electric/psychedelic conclusion. Next up, one for the stoners, “L.A. Woman.” And last, but CERTAINLY not least, “Light My Fire.” Ray started the band with the now, almost trademark "One, Two, One, Two, THREE!" before the classic open organ run. The organ solo was awesome beyond description. It made my 300+ mile drive to Philadelphia all worth while. After the solo Robby announced to the crowd, "That's the most famous organ solo in music." Truer words were never spoken! Robby's guitar solo was awesome as well. It seemed to go on forever! After “Light My Fire” the band disappeared for a few minutes before reappearing for three encores: “Riders on the Storm, “Peace Frog” (a huge crowd favorite) and finally “Soul Kitchen.” The Doors are slated to play Pittsburgh on June 22. I plan to see that show, too.
![]() |
|
Copyright © 2003 TDM Inc. All rights reserved. |
Over | Email us! |
|---|