The Who Concert Guide

There is no better way to end a Friday night than with a sore throat and bleeding eardrums, as any rock fan knows. Eager to experience such bodily harm, fans old and new swarmed to their seats awaiting The Who's legendary performance. As the band took the stage at the TD Banknorth Garden an incomparable applause erupted from the audience, who were in sheer shock that Pete Townsend and Roger Daltrey, two of the world's most extraordinary rock heroes, stood before them.

The opening numbers, "I Can't Explain," "The Seeker" and "Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere" blasted through the speakers, however this was just a warm-up for Daltrey and Townsend; the best was certainly yet to come.

"Love Reign O'er Me," a song covered by many musicians, was proof that no masterpiece can achieve such greatness as when performed by its creators. Not only did the live performance show the ruthless power of the music, it proved to inquiring minds that Daltry will always have supernatural vocal chords and Townsend's fingers will never lose their touch.

The Garden shook as the opening melody of "Baba O'Riley" resonated throughout the arena. With arms and voices raised, the audience resembled those who were "out here in the fields." Of equally monumental proportions was "Behind Blue Eyes." Daltrey was joined by virtually the entire audience as he sang some of the most infamous lyrics known to the world of rock 'n' roll.

After a 90-minute-long set, The Who had the crowd literally jumping with joy as they began their encore with "Pinball Wizard." Between the upbeat jams and slower acoustic numbers, The Who sent the audience on an emotional roller coaster ride. The night unfortunately had to come to an end, but as Townsend and Daltrey performed "Tea & Theatre," an enchanted hush came over the Garden.

While listening to a recording of "Who Are You" or "My Generation" or any one of The Who's songs is an auditory pleasure, a live performance gives a true appreciation for the musicianship of this iconic group. Even with the absence of Keith Moon and John Entwistle, whose parts were filled by Zak Starkey (Ringo Starr's son) and Pino Palladino, the show was an unforgettable experience.