ROBBY KRIEGER
Cinematix (R&D/Oglio Records)
Rating: 4 out of 7
By Bob Gulla

   Former—and somehow still current—Doors guitarist Robby Krieger, the guy who wrote "Light My Fire" and "Love Me Two Times," isn’t the kind of solo artist you’d expect him to be. So it takes a while to readjust your expectations once his new album, Cinematix, starts spinning in your player. Beyond the gothic-inspired psychedelic rock he made with Morrison and company, Krieger proves to be an able and versatile guitarist, as demonstrated on the opening, near-shred "Snake Oil," the bluesy "Idolatry," the jazz-fusion wig-out "Missionary Jam," and the Jeff Beck-inspired hard-rocker "Red Alert." There’s even a hip remix of the Doors’ "Peace Frog," called "War Toad (Peace Frog Remix)."
   Yet, while some of Krieger’s wide stylistic swings challenge credibility, much of his exploration is impressive and worthwhile. Of course, having drummer Billy Cobham, guitar hero Edgar Winter, and Zappa bassist Arthur Barrow joining him doesn’t hurt. Chances are slim he’ll recapture his former songwriting glory, but at least he sounds like he’s having fun making some good music and playing some good guitar. 

All recordings courtesy of R&D/Oglio Records. “Idolatry” written by R. Krieger, A. Barrow; courtesy of Nazzenphlat Music/Cydonian Music (ASCAP). “Missionary Jam” R. Krieger, J. Avila, J. Hernanadez; Nazzenphlat Music/Anferla Music/Angel Man Music (ASCAP). “War Toad” written by J. Morrison, R. Krieger; courtesy of Doors Music (ASCAP).