Shannon Mooney
Online Editor
On Thursday night, hundreds of fans filled Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center to watch a performance by one of the most iconic rock bands of the 60s and 70s: The Who.
The band’s remaining members, singer Roger Daltrey and guitarist Pete Townshend, reunited for a North American tour of “Quadrophenia,” one of their most popular concept albums.
The evening began with an opening performance by Vintage Trouble, whose upbeat, bluesy songs got the audience energized and excited. Audience members ranged from the band’s older, original fans to young children and their families.
The crowd rose to their feet when The Who took the stage to play the album’s first song, “The Real Me.”
The stage was animated and vibrant, with five large screens displaying close-ups of the band, as well as old footage from their concerts, recording sessions and music videos. “Quadrophenia” also has a movie that accompanies the album, and scenes from it were played throughout the performance.
The hi-tech aspect of the show proved to be essential during the album’s two instrumental songs, “Quadrophenia” and “The Rock,” as various clips of historical moments were played on the screen to match the music’s tone. The footage included shots of World War II, Kennedy’s assassination, the Vietnam War and 9/11.
The band also paid homage to its two deceased members, bassist John Entwistle and drummer Keith Moon. Two solos from the musicians were played on the screen during the show.
The Who played “Quadrophenia” straight through without interruption, and waited until the end of the album to make any commentary.
“I haven’t got anything left!” Townshend managed to shout into the mic, referring to his hoarse voice.
After thanking everyone who helped put the show together, the band played some of their favorite and most popular songs that aren’t on the album, including “Pinball Wizard,” “Baba O’Riley,” “Won’t Get Fooled Again” and “Who Are You.”
The band’s next stop along the tour will be in Anaheim, Cal. on Jan. 28.
