Review by Vik Iyengar @ allmusic.comMoody and mesmerizing, An American Prayer is an interesting album of Jim Morrison reading his poetry over the Doors' music. An American Prayer was finished by the remaining members of the Doors after Morrison's death and finally released in 1978 (it was remastered and re-released in 1995 with bonus tracks). Those familiar with the lyrics of the Doors will not be surprised, but others may be put off because Morrison is unafraid to use crude imagery and talk unabashedly about taboo topics such as sex and religion. Although many dismiss his poetry as simplistic random musings, Morrison is a gifted lyricist with a vivid imagination. The album also demonstrates how the other musicians in the band create a mood that breathes life into Morrison's dark, twisted visions. The music excerpts of "Peace Frog" and "Wasp (Texas Radio and the Big Beat)" provide a welcome air of familiarity, and the definitive live version of "Roadhouse Blues" in the middle of the album provides a nice respite from the barrage of stories and metaphors. However, An American Prayer must be listened to in one sitting to be fully appreciated, preferably at nighttime when one is alone and can devote full attention to the listening experience. This album is not for everyone, but is a must-own for Doors completists and fans of Jim Morrison's poetry.
Track Lists
01. Awake
02. Ghost Song
03. Dawn's Highway
04. Newborn Awakening
05. To Come Of Age
06. Black Polished Chrome
07. Latino Chrome
08. Angels And Sailors
09. Stoned Immaculate
10. The Movie
11. Curses, Invocations
12. American Night
13. Roadhouse Blues
14. The World On Fire
15. Lament
16. The Hitchhiker
17. An American Prayer
18. Hour For Magic
19. Freedom Exists
20. A Feast Of Friends
21. Babylon Fading
22. Bird Of Prey
23. The Ghost Song
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