The Doors-Strange Days (1967)

Released just a few months after their debut album, The Doors' second album was widely criticized for being seen as a copycat of its predecessor, designed to capitalize on its tremendous initial commercial success. However, while the group, led by Jim Morrison, continued to present a repertoire of songs that navigated between rhythm and blues and rock with psychedelic touches, this album is another brilliant display of the talent of its members: Morrison, Manzarek, Krieger, and Densmore. In reality, the compositions here are more polished than on their rough-edged previous work, and their compositional maturity is reflected in the dynamic rhythms and the unsettling nature of their unique and peculiar style. Songs like the enigmatic "Strange Days" are a clear example of the typical Doors sound, thanks to their dynamic and menacing atmosphere. Another of their great achievements is the crescendoing "Love Me Two Times", where Morrison clearly demonstrates his distinctive vocal personality and Robbie Krieger showcases his brilliant baroque guitar style. Other songs like the ornate "Unhappy Girl", the decadent ballad "You're Lost Little Girl", the infectious melody of "People Are Strange" or the monumental "When The Music's Over", reflect an album that, despite the criticism, subtly surpasses its worthy predecessor.