The Who: BBC Sessions

The Who: BBC Sessions
Label: MCA
Release Date: 2000
Recording Date: 1965-73
Review Date: 2000

The Who BBC Sessions were recorded on various occasions from 1965 to 1973 for broadcast on the BBC. The early recordings were made shorlty after chart success with “I Can’t Explain.” The song tracks mirror their career in that the earlier recordings tend to be the most immediate and impressive work, while the later ones tend towards the less than spectacular and even boring. When not sounding like all white mod bands covering Motown, the Who are at their best with mono and minimally produced versions of “I’m a Boy,” “Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere” and “Substitute,” etc. Fans will also enjoy dork sessions in the studio with fake jingles as well as giving the announcer a hard time during live performances. As with most bands the longer they go on, the less interesting the music and performances become. The BBC Sessions has 25 tracks and is worthwhile if you’re a fan of the early Who and you are looking for a few alternatve takes to augment your favorite albums.

BBC Sessions: B-