On November 2, 1967 "Cream" released their second album "Disraeli Gears".
This album is often hailed as a landmark album that captures the height of the psychedelic rock era and "the summer of love". The album blends blues, hard rock, and psychedelia into a powerful and innovative sound. "Disraeli Gears" saw Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker explore a sound that pushed the boundaries of blues-rock, venturing into surreal and imaginative territory. With its swirling colors, wah-wah guitars, heavy basslines and poetic lyrics, "Disraeli Gears" marks a defining moment not only for the band but also for 1960s counterculture
The iconic opening track, “Strange Brew,” sets the tone with its bluesy guitar riff and guitar solo closely mirrored Albert King's work, particularly from "Oh Pretty Woman". This was "Cream's" first single with Eric Clapton on lead vocals, mostly sung in falsetto.
This segues into one of the album's biggest hits, “Sunshine of Your Love,” driven by Jack Bruce's unmistakable bassline, inspired by seeing Jimi Hendrix perform in January 1967, drummer Ginger Baker’s unique tom-tom rhythm and Eric Clapton's soaring, feedback-laden solo, which became a defining moment in rock guitar history. This song, with its unforgettable groove, is arguably one of the most influential rock tracks ever recorded. Several rock journals have placed the song on their greatest song lists. The "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" included it on its list of the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll".
Other songs on the album highlight the band's improvisational strength. Tracks like “World of Pain” and “Dance the Night Away” explore rich, layered melodies and a more surreal, dreamlike quality.
“SWLABR” (“She Was Like a Bearded Rainbow”) is another standout, featuring Clapton’s distorted guitar riff and Ginger Baker’s lively drumming, combining whimsy with fierce musicianship. Clapton’s solo work throughout the album—particularly on tracks like “Tales of Brave Ulysses”—showcases his mastery of the wah-wah pedal which he plays throughout the song, and became synonymous with the late '60s psychedelic sound. Baker, meanwhile, is relentless on the drums, driving songs like “We’re Going Wrong” with a mix of power and precision that with its 6/8 time signature also gives the song a distinct and irregular sound.
"Disraeli Gears" remains a pivotal release in rock history. By fusing blues roots with psychedelic influences, "Cream" created a sound that set the stage for heavier rock styles while still holding an experimental edge.
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
Comments