When this debut album dropped in 1968, the Al Kooper–led Blood Sweat and Tears came on like cross-genre outlaws. Armed with a brass section, they loaded up on jazz, folk, rock ’n’ roll, soul, blues, and even classical and baroque pop like no one before them. There’s lots of heart, humor (the laughter on “Overture” sounds like self-mockery), and sheer musical acumen. Beautiful sidelong takes on Harry Nilsson’s “Without Her,” Tim Buckley’s “Morning Glory," and Randy Newman’s “Just One Smile” complement trailblazing originals, such as “My Days Are Numbered” and “Megan’s Gypsy Eye.” Kooper left the group after this album's release.