Wire and Glass

On July 10th The Who released their new EP/mini-opera "Wire and Glass", the first new music under The Who banner since 1982's "It's Hard". My friend John was kind enough to send it my way and I heard it for the first time just yesterday. Upon first listening I couldn't believe just how much it sounds like "The Who"! I've listened to it a couple times since and I'm still marvelling at how much it sounds like "classic Who"! I assumed it was Ringo's son Zak Starkey, famous for his ability to channel the late great Keith Moon, handling the drums, but much to my surprise it's actually a chap by the name of Peter Huntington (Zak was on tour with Oasis during the recording sessions for the EP, but he's back behind the kit for the current Who tour). Longtime session whiz Pino Palladino is on bass and does a fine job of it. His playing may not be quite as adventurous as the late great John Entwistle, but then again who's is? One thing that struck me immediately is what fine form Roger Daltrey's voice is in. His singing is still as dynamic, as powerful, as it was in the sixties and seventies. Townshend has built a rich, multi-layered mix around Daltrey's vocals featuring his trademark blend of electric and acoustic guitars. The electric guitar sounds are cleaner than in the past, but his patented suspended chords ring out as majestically as ever! As far as I'm concerned, "Wire and Glass" is an absolute must have for any Who fan. The forthcoming full length LP (due to be released this October) will contain the full 30 minute version of this 11 minute mini-opera along with a handful of other new songs. Townshend has been juggling the final mixing with their current world tour. I recall reading that he released this EP to get some new music out there in time for the tour. By all accounts, their recent shows have been stellar. I await the release of the full length LP with bated breath.... For more info on the forthcoming LP and the current tour check out Pete Townshend's official website here.