Today we have Cream's second studio album Disraeli Gears. Released in 1967, the album is generally considered the band's best album and one of the greatest albums of all time. With its mix of psychedelic and blues rock as well as the large guitar sound, the album is considered a precursor to heavy metal.
It's not just that they've gotten heavy--the band has matured with a clearer direction, stronger production, more memorable riffs, and better execution of the songs. However, the albums isn't without weaknesses. Although "Sunshine of Your Love" and "Dance the Night Away" are among their best songs so far, I dislike Baker's vocals on "Blue Condition," the chorus of "Take It Back," and the a cappella "Mother's Lament," which the band probably drunkenly recorded and then chose the worst take they did. Even with these though, the album's a clear--if only moderate--improvement. B+
