Man, this album... where to start? Let's just say it's THE definite classic rock album. It has everything: incredible vocals, beautifully written songs, insane guitar riffs, out of the world drum solos, and the best bit about it: outstanding musicianship. The chemistry between the members on this album is just gorgeous. It's like fate purposely put these guys together to release the perfect, flawless album. And that's exactly what Who's Next is.
I won't bother writing an essay, but I can't imagine life without having experiencing each and every one of these tracks. Once listened to, you simply cannot forget. I completely overplayed it on my first listening, and for a whole month it wasn't out of my stereo. When I though I'd finally give up on the listening streak, after about a week I come back to it, not expecting to be blown away by it, and again it's not out my stereo for a whole week. That's enough of my experience, let's get down to business: the real highlight on the album for me is the drumming. I'm probably jumping a bandwagon here, but Keith Moon's talent on this album is indescribable. Sure there's faster drummers (pick up any thrash metal album), maybe there's more better drum solos created (Moby Dick anyone?), but Keith Moon shows his charisma through the clashes of his drumbeats. It goes so well with the already perfect tracks, it stands out compared to any other instrument.
Now the vocals are beautiful, Daltrey can really make his voice heard. He can belt a simple "yeah" into something so awe-inspiring, it almost brings tears of happiness down your eyes. The guitarwork is also genius, and although overshadowed by the fantastic drumming, it really helps complete the package.
Although the popular energy-fused Baba O'Riley and Won't Get Fooled Again are undeniably the high points here, it's the more ballady tracks that really stick with me. My Wife has proven over time that it's the definite track for me, because even though Baba O'Riley stands as my most played Who song, this track never gets the skip. It simply cannot be overplayed. And by god is Love Ain't for Keeping underrated. I adore that song with a passion, it's the ultimate feel good anthem. Then there's Behind Blue Eyes, the one tear jerker on the album that can really get to you (stay well away from the Limp Bizkit cover, don't let it put you off this awesomely amazing tune).
I can't comment on the added bonus tracks, as I feel exhausted after the epic "original" closer Won't Get Fooled Again, so i often skip them, but from what I can vaguely remember of them, Naked Eye and Pure and Easy are pretty damn good.
Unfortunately I did end up writing an essay, but seriously this album deserves as much praise as all the half-decent albums in the world put together. It really is a classic. I'm running out of superlatives now, so I'll end by saying if you ever consider picking this album up, don't hesitate. It's classic rock at it's best, The Who at it's best, and well, best at it's best.