The Who: Who's Next

The Who: Who's Next (Classic Albums) is a riveting musical documentary featuring the legendary band The Who, as they take us behind the scenes of their landmark album, "Who's Next." Featuring interviews and insight from the four original members, Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon, this is an indispensable film for fans of music history and The Who.

At the heart of the documentary is the 1971 album "Who's Next," widely recognized as one of the finest albums in rock history, which birthed anthems like "Baba O'Riley," "Behind Blue Eyes," and "Won't Get Fooled Again." These songs aren't just departed points of reflection for the band members but act as revelatory markers into their creative process, collective dynamics, and individual genius.

Directed with a keen eye for unpacking musical achievement, the documentary underscores the creative tension, commitment, and talent required to give birth to an album that has sustained the test of time. The viewer is privileged to witness the conception, development, and realization of the album through the detailed narratives from the band members as well as some of the key people that were instrumental during the production phase of 'Who's Next.'

Roger Daltrey, the band's fearless front man, recounts how he pushed the limits of his vocal prowess to breathe life into Townshend's progressive lyrics, while Pete Townshend, the band's virtuoso guitarist, and main songwriter recalls the inspiration and the melodic structure he brought to the album. John Entwistle, the bass guitarist, explains the intricacies of marrying rhythm and lead on the bass, while Keith Moon, the band's wild and enigmatic drummer, showcases his untamed yet indispensable skills that gave The Who its explosive soundscape.

This is more than a simple talking head documentary, it makes judicious use of archive footage, from stage performances to studio sessions, to underscore points made by the band members. But what sets "The Who: Who's Next (Classic Albums)" apart are the detailed analysis and meticulous breakdowns of individual tracks. Individual songs are stripped down to their fundamental elements, allowing fans to appreciate the nuances and complexities of their making. Furthermore, the band members and their producers re-examine the multi-track tapes to illustrate how specific sounds and effects were achieved, offering fans an insider's look into the creation of some of rock and roll's most iconic songs.

The documentary contains plentiful anecdotes that give you a profound understanding of the band's internal dynamics, the pressures they faced during the album's recording, and the triumphant relief they experienced upon its success. There are reflections on their initial failures, struggles with drugs, impact of sudden fame on their collective psyche, and the tumultuous relationships between band mates. However, what stands out most is their undying love for music and their relentless pursuit of perfection in creating a classic album.

Perhaps the most impressive part of this film is its humanizing portrayal of The Who, revealing the members not as divine untouchable rockstars, but as four passion-driven individuals who struggled, fought, laughed and, most importantly, created together. You've rarely seen The Who this intimate, honest and raw, making the documentary a poignant experience for the viewers.

Fun, informative, and fireplace intimate, The Who: Who's Next (Classic Albums) is an insightful journey into the making of an extraordinary album by a legendary band. It is a love letter to music enthusiasts and a captivating watch for everyone who appreciates the power and magic of rock 'n roll. The film does not just recall the creation of a musical masterpiece, it pays homage to the creativity, sacrifice, and sporadic madness essential to art's making. It’s an exploration of a moment in musical history, of how a group of resilient musicians came together to create a timeless masterpiece.