The Who: The Vegas Job - Live in Vegas

The Vegas Job - Live in Vegas from The Who is a remarkable celebration of the iconic rock band's legacy, recorded live during a concert on October 29, 1999 at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. This concert marked a significant event as it was the first time the band had performed live together in public following a seven-year hiatus. The lineup for the concert featured the two original remaining band members, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, together with bassist John Entwistle and seasoned artists Zak Starkey on drums, and John 'Rabbit' Bundrick on keyboards.

This rock documentary gives fans an exceptional glimpse into the exhilarating chaos and indefinable magic that is The Who's live performances coupled with the glamorous, electric city of Las Vegas. It not only captures their onstage performances but also includes rare backstage footage, creating a comprehensive showcase of The Who's craft in performance and an insight into their interactions off-stage.

The Who: The Vegas Job - Live in Vegas is an audio-visual display of the band's virtuosity, charisma, and unique sound that has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. The concert remains true to the band's signature fusion of rock, powerhouse vocals, vigorous guitar strums, and energetic drumming. It brings back to life the legendary compositions that have made The Who a timeless phenomenon in the global music industry.

The film begins with an electrifying opening set as The Who warms the crowd with their high-energy performances. This concert film is notable not just for seeing the band in action again after a hiatus but for the quality and breadth of its song list. The setlist includes a mix of their biggest hits and fan favourites, spanning their incredible career. Daltrey's compelling lead vocals meshed with Townshend's dynamic guitar playing serves as a reminder of their status as rock 'n' roll legends.

John Entwistle, renowned for his bass guitar virtuosity, adds richness to the harmony with his timeless bass lines serving as a powerful undercurrent to Daltrey's vocals and Townshend's guitar riffs. Zak Starkey, son of The Beatles' Ringo Starr, sits in on drums and while he undeniably brings his own style to the table, he also superbly channels the raw fervour of the band's original drummer Keith Moon. Adding depth, they are joined by John 'Rabbit' Bundrick who gives a masterful performance on the keyboards.

Throughout the footage, the bond between Daltrey and Townshend is palpable, their camaraderie perfectly complementing their years of shared music history. The presence of Townshend's brother, Simon, on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, further underscores the sense of family and unity within the reformed band.

Interacting with a 12,000-strong audience, the stars share their nostalgia and joy at being back together on stage, bringing an intimacy and warmth to this larger-than-life arena show that the fans will certainly appreciate. What makes this concert film unique is its ability to capture the revolutionary nature and spirit of The Who, striking a perfect balance between the raw energy of their music and the sentimentality of their journey.

As well as being a must-watch for hardcore fans, the documentary serves as a great introduction for those unfamiliar with the band's work, offering insights into their on-stage chemistry, their musical versatility, and the sheer influence they have had on the world of music.

In summary, The Who: The Vegas Job - Live in Vegas is not just a concert film, it’s an experience. A powerful, passionate and poignantly emotional celebration of one of rock's most influential and enduring bands. The movie serves as both a testament to The Who's powerful presence in the 20th-century rock scene, and as a captivating standalone rockumentary. Its combination of live thrills, incredible music, backstage access, and unforgettable band interactions make it a must-see for rock music enthusiasts across generations. To quote one of The Who's iconic songs, "The music must go on" - and this film ensures their music, energy, and impact will indeed go on.