Disraeli Gears (Deluxe Edition)

In their all-too-brief career in the mid to late ‘60s, Cream defined the “power trio.” By combining old-school blues with then current psychedelia and embracing the advancements in sound technology, Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker forged a bludgeoning sound that drove audiences to hysteria and inspired future generations to solo beyond the pain threshold. While their musical virtuosity was indisputable, it was the band’s songs that gave them lasting power. Their second album, Disraeli Gears, features several classic rock radio staples that have become standard operation for emerging guitar players worldwide: “Strange Brew,” “Sunshine of Your Love,” “SWLABR” and “Tales of Brave Ulysses.” Those alone would be reason to take note, however, Gears also includes other overlooked pleasures. “World of Pain” and “Blue Condition” exhibit the band’s softer side, while “Dance the Night Away,” though hardly the dancefloor concoction its title implies, evokes a night of lava lamp gazing. The “Deluxe” edition includes both stereo and mono versions of the album, outtakes, alternate takes and live BBC recordings from 1967-68.