Motley Crue’s ‘Dr. Feelgood’ 35th Anniversary Box Set: A Missed Opportunity?
Motley Crue’s Dr. Feelgood is a landmark album in rock history, celebrated as the band’s most commercially successful release. To mark its 35th anniversary, a Super Deluxe Edition box set has been unveiled. As a lifelong Motley Crue fan and collector, I was eager to explore this release, but I must be honest: while the music itself remains as electrifying as ever, the execution of this box set leaves much to be desired.
This review isn’t a critique of the band or their music—it’s about how this package, marketed to devoted fans, could have been so much more.
What’s in the Box?
The Dr. Feelgood box set is available in both CD and vinyl editions. Here’s what’s included:
The remastered original album
A disc of demos (20 minutes of music)
A disc of live tracks (26 minutes of music)
A 24-page booklet
Various replica memorabilia: a backstage pass, press kit, a patch, a tour itinerary, and a poster
A “medical office” envelope to house the CDs
At first glance, it might seem like a collector’s dream. But when you consider the price point—around £120 for the CD set and £160 for the vinyl set—it becomes clear that this box lacks the substance and “wow factor” fans expect from a deluxe edition of this caliber.
What’s Missing?
For a box set priced this high, the content feels underwhelming. Here’s what could have elevated this release:
Comprehensive Live Recordings
The live disc contains only 26 minutes of music. Where is the full concert from the Dr. Feelgood tour? This feels like a glaring omission.
Expanded Booklet or Hardback Book
A flimsy 24-page booklet with recycled photos and lyrics doesn’t cut it. Compare this to recent deluxe sets from Queen or The Who, which include in-depth essays, rare photos, and detailed track-by-track commentary.
Blu-ray or Dolby Atmos Mix
With advances in audio technology, a Dolby Atmos or 5.1 surround mix would have added significant value.
Fan Engagement
A collaboration with the fan community could have yielded personal anecdotes, photos, or memorabilia, creating a deeper connection with the audience.
Tour Program Reproduction
Including a replica tour program from the Dr. Feelgood era would have been a fantastic touch.
A Question of Value
In a market filled with extraordinary deluxe sets, this box feels like a missed opportunity. Recent examples like Queen’s The Miracle Collector’s Edition or The Who’s Who’s Next/Life House set deliver far more content and emotional impact for a similar price. When fans invest in a box set, they expect a celebration of the album—a package that immerses them in the music and the era.
The decision to create separate vinyl and CD sets also feels like a misstep. Combining formats in one set, as seen with other releases, would have offered better value and avoided dividing the fanbase.
Lessons for Record Companies
This release underscores a key point: listen to the fans. Box sets should be designed from the perspective of the people who will cherish them most. Collectors want more than just the music—they want the stories, the artifacts, and the immersive experience. When the design feels like an afterthought, it diminishes the appeal.
As someone passionate about physical media, I believe the industry must aim higher. Fans are willing to pay premium prices for box sets—but only if they deliver the quality and content we crave.
Final Thoughts
The Dr. Feelgood box set is a reminder of the importance of thoughtful curation. While the music remains timeless, this release could have been a definitive celebration of Motley Crue’s legacy. For fans considering this set, I recommend weighing its contents carefully before making the investment.
What do you think? Did this box set meet your expectations? Let me know in the comments!
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
