The Who / Quadrophenia: Director’s Cut

The Who
Quadrophenia: Director's Cut
(Universal/Polydor)
* * *

In 1973 The Who returned to the rock opera format by paying tribute to their roots in the '60s mod scene. 'Quadrophenia' is all about the teenage pains of being pure at heart, wrapped up in a Parker jacket and delivered by scooter.

The band sound fantastic on this remastered album: it's always a pleasure to hear Keith Moon knocking out his fills, and him and Townsend get to see some blitzing rock action on 'I've Had Enough' and '5:15', the latter of which amps up the sound of 'Exile on Main Street' and sounds gobsmacking at full volume. Elsewhere, the bands oft-forgotten sense of Python-esque humour comes forth on 'Helpless Dancer' and 'Bell Boy', which features Adrian Edmondson of Bottom having a gibbering rant.

Compared with the catchy raw power of its predecessor, 1971's 'Who's Next', 'Quadrophenia' is a slick affair with comparatively fewer bonafide classic tunes; it's far easier to enjoy the record for the feel of The Who's virtuoso playing, than it is for Townsend's somewhat conservative compositions. That said, the overall themes have enough depth to justify the legacy it spawned.

Extras include a comprehensive array of demos and a 5.1 'Quadrophonic' mix.