To call the latest incarnation of Î60s psychedelic blues-rock group The Doors a tribute band would be a gross injustice.

Yes, Jim Morrison, the foundation, frontman, and "Lizard King" of the original band is a boxed skeleton in French soil right now. Yes, the original drummer thinks The 21st Century Doors is a sham and wants no part of it.

However, what went down on Saturday night at Casino Del Sol's amphitheatre was not simply four guys playing Doors songs. It was The Doors' musicianship resurrected as whole as it comes these days, playing tunes that have withstood the test of time. "Five To One," "Break On Through," "L.A. Woman," "Soul Kitchen," "Riders On The Storm," "People Are Strange," "Crystal Ship," "Alabama Song," and highlights from their entire catalogue still retained their youthful resonance, even if aged keyboardist Ray Manzarek and guitarist Robby Krieger did not.

The Cult's Ian Astbury, in for Morrison, was a surprisingly good sport and understudy. He took a little while to warm up to, but Astbury soon gelled into the vibe of a live Doors performance: dancing in circles, flailing his arms about and jumping all over the stage.

In listening to Astbury crooning certain songs with his distinctive voice, there were brief allusions to the gaping void that Morrison once filled. While the most Astbury can hope to be is a candle to Morrison's sun, he certainly did his job in keeping the crowd energetic, rebellious, and entertained.

It was amazing to be able to hear these powerful classics live ÷ this is about as good as it gets now. And it got pretty damn good.