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- The Who’s farewell tour is perfectly imperfect – Review (usatoday.com)
Sunrise, Fla. — The Who launched their “The Song Is Over North American Farewell Tour” on Saturday, August 16th at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. While the band, including Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, have claimed finality before, this time they insist it’s truly their swan song.
Despite a few technical hiccups that visibly annoyed Daltrey, the two-hour, 23-song set showcased the band in good spirits. Following their declaration of finality, Townshend jokingly offered their services for “private parties,” eliciting laughter from the packed arena.
The setlist included classic Who anthems such as “Baba O’Riley,” “Pinball Wizard,” and the opening number, “I Can’t Explain.” However, the band also surprised fans with deeper cuts, including “Bargain” and “Going Mobile” from their 1971 album “Who’s Next.”
“Going Mobile” marked its first live performance by The Who. The band also delivered a poignant rendition of “Tea & Theatre” from their 2006 album “Endless Wire.”
At 81, Daltrey’s vocals understandably showed some wear, but he largely delivered a powerful performance. After a slightly raspy start, he found his stride on “The Seeker.”
While harmonies were often supported by other band members, Daltrey hit the crucial notes with undeniable passion, particularly during “See Me, Feel Me.” A shared grin with Townshend after the song spoke volumes about their enduring connection.
Townshend, at 80, remained a force on guitar, delivering his signature riffs and energetic playing. While acknowledging his own vocal limitations and ceding lead vocals on “Going Mobile” to his brother Simon, Townshend commanded “Eminence Front” with his characteristic intensity.
The band was rounded out by longtime collaborators Jon Button (bass), Jody Linscott (percussion), and Scott Devours (drums), filling in for longtime drummer Zak Starkey. Townshend introduced Devours with a playful jab, claiming not to know him, despite Devours’ history with Daltrey’s solo band. Devours’ performance, full of Keith Moon-esque energy, proved a worthy addition.
Technical difficulties arose throughout the evening, prompting Daltrey to remark, “You’ll never remember the perfect show. You’ll remember the (screw)-ups.”
While not flawless, the performance captured the raw energy that has defined The Who for six decades. The show may not have been “perfect,” but it served as a powerful and fitting tribute to the band’s legacy.
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- The Who’s farewell tour is perfectly imperfect – Review (usatoday.com)