The Who
Who's Next

LA RECENSIONE

After conquering the globe with the surreal tale of "Tommy" (1969) and after releasing the electrifying "Live at Leeds" (1970), the leader and guitarist of the group, Pete Townshend, attempts to create another concept album but will soon abandon the project. What will result is "Who's Next" (1971). Nine songs. Nine pearls. Crystal-clear sounds. Rock at full speed. The Who reach that musical balance that will rightfully allow the album to enter history.  

"Baba O'Riley" and "Won't Get Fooled Again", as well as the opening and closing songs, are two of the most beautiful pages ever written by Pete Townshend, who experiments with the synthesizer in search of hypnotic sounds that sculpt the listening experience.
"The Song is Over" and "Getting in Tune" enchant with their sweet piano before exploding into an instrumental whirlwind guided by the unmistakable voice of Roger Daltrey.
And then there is that "Behind Blue Eyes" which, with its gentle melody and that harmonious initial guitar arpeggio, has now become a classic. The only song entirely sung by Pete is the engaging "Going Mobile". Not to underestimate is the sole composition by bassist John Entwistle, "My Wife". A well-paced track led by the voice of its own author. An absolutely indispensable album.

At the dawn of the '70s, much was expected from the Who, and the group gave even too much. "Who's Next" and "Quadrophenia" (1973) are worth entire discographies on their own. One of the best rock guitarists, Pete Townshend is also an excellent and prolific composer with musical sensitivity beyond the ordinary. "The Next of the Who" is the absolute proof of that.