The Freeborn - Peak Impressions (Reissue, Bonus Tracks Edition) (1967/2007)

This obscure late-'60s band was typical of many young Boston groups of the era in their eclectic blend of psychedelic influences, with a sound heavy on electric keyboards and wailing guitar. They were also typical, it must be said, in how their eclecticism nonetheless sounded pedestrian due to their relatively undistinguished original material and their ambitious mishmash of ingredients. Their sole album, 1967's Peak Impression, was heavy on minor melodies and haunting harmonies, and a little unusual for the time in its wide array of instruments (all played by the band), including cello, recorder, harpsichord, and trumpet in addition to the standard guitars, keyboard, bass, and drum. The record was reissued on CD by Distortions more than 30 years later. The Freeborne's lead guitarist, Bob Margolin, went on to make a bigger mark in blues and rock playing with Muddy Waters and Johnny Winter.