The Who launched their highly anticipated World Tour in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, September 12, 2006, at the Wachovia Center. If there were any doubts that The Who should retire, this high octane performance had to dispel all naysyaers about the energy level of both Townshend and Daltrey's ability to continue as The Who.

     Joining founding members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend are John "Rabbit" Bundrick on keyboards, Pino Palladino on bass, Zak Starkey on drums, and Simon Townshend on guitar. The energetic sextet comprise the modern sound of The Who.

     Without introduction, the band simply walked out on stage, tuned up and went straight into an intense version of "I Can't Explain". With the crowd pumped and ready for an evening of The Who, Townshend stoked and stroked his guitar neck.

     For the encore, The Who dusted off "Substitute", still popular after four decades. An abbreviated suite of tunes from Tommy began with a powerful "Pinball Wizard". The two old friends closed their set with "Tea And Theatre", a new song from their forthcoming CD.

     The Who are releasing their first studio album in 24 years, Endless Wire. Anticipation from fans to hear the new Who effort is running high. Original rumors mentioned Daltrey would be contributing to the new disc, but Townshend composed of the material for the new Who.

Philadelphia setlist: I Can't Explain * The Seeker * Anyway Anyhow Anywhere * Baba O'Riley * Behind Blue Eyes * Real Good Looking Boy * Wire & Glass mini opera * Relay * You Better, You Bet * Who Are You * Man In A Purple Dress * Black Widow Eyes * Fragments * My Generation > Cry If You Want * Won't Get Fooled Again * Encore: Substitute * Pinball Wizard > Amazing Journey > Sparks > See Me, Feel Me * Tea And Theatre

RockonTour   Issue #61
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The Who are wired for sound
An animated & energetic Who deliver an overwhelming performance

by Timothy Tilghman