Natters' Blog

Tommy Musical Showing At My Local Theatre

2008-05-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.griffinplayers.co.uk/musical.htm

I went to the first rehearsal of this show and the singing was amazing - I've seen a play by this group before and it was excellent.

You can book by calling the box office at 07906 075455

Have Closed My Dailymotion Site

2008-05-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

As I've been unable to update this regulary, I felt it was best to close it down and give Ivor The Engine Driver permission to upload them on his page - as he has over 450 videos to choose from and continues to update frequently.

http://www.dailymotion.com/ivortheenginedriver

Although I've stopped doing this I may consider uploading some torrents to longliverock in the future.

The Who - We Got A Hit 2006
Uploaded by IvorTheEngineDriver

Bootleg Ratings Updated

2008-04-26T03:34:00.000-07:00

I've rearranged my bootleg page and separated it into sections.

The 60's Section has been updated and gradually more sections and detail will be added.

Closing

2008-02-17T08:25:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: 07/04/2008

As I can't be bothered to save all my pictures and articles I've decided to keep my blog online and try to update regulary.

As for the TCT gig Sunday week, due to low cashflow I don't think I'll be going. Although I may make a last minute decision!

Featured Album

2007-11-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

My Generation: The Very Best Of

This is where it all started. When my mother brought this for me at the age of 14, the only tracks I knew were My Generation and I Can See For Miles.

A 2nd session of The Kids Are Alright movie and a listen of all tracks, I was hooked forever.

Track Listing:

1. I Can't Explain
2. Anyway Anyhow Anywhere
3. My Generation
4. Substitute
5. I'm A Boy
6. Boris The Spider
7. Happy Jack
8. Pictures Of Lily
9. I Can See For Miles
10. Magic Bus
11. Pinball Wizard
12. Seeker
13. Baba O'Riley
14. Won't Get Fooled Again
15. Let's See Action
16. 5.15
17. Join Together
18. Squeeze Box
19. Who Are You
20. You Better You Bet

Dailymotion

2007-11-10T09:07:00.000-08:00

It seems Dailymotion are becoming strict with the videos you upload.

I uploaded three this morning and all of them were rejected.

Unfortunately I'll be deleted some of my videos and leaving ones which I may get away with.

This means I won't be updating as frequently.

Marquee Programme Updated

2007-11-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

After watching The Amazing Journey DVD now I know why John Entwistle called himself John Brown.

Damn it why didn't I keep the scanned photograph!

60's CDs

2007-10-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

Last updated 26/04/2008

60's

CDs

Ø The High Numbers Live 1964 (First 11 tracks are the Railway Hotel performance, the rest are Studio recordings from late 1964 that are all instrumentals B+)
Ø Orphans Volume 1, 2 & 3 (When this collection was first in circulation it would have been a must have for any fan. Tracklisting features alternative takes, different mixes, B-sides and live performances. Since then a lot of them have surfaced on remasters etc. It's still a great set. A)
Ø High Numbered (Tracks recorded for the BBC early on in the Who's career, mostly live soundboard, A)
Ø My Generation (Original English Album plus bonus tracks, I'd recommend the remastered My Generation over this, but then again this bootleg has the guitar overdubs, where as the remaster doesn't. Studio, A)
Ø A Stereo Quick One (Stereo version of a Quick One, better sound than even the remastered Quick One. Studio, A)
Ø Dallas 23/07/1967 (Listenable audience considering the year recorded. Recommended B)
Ø Rochester 30/08/1967 (The person who recorded this was obviously nearer the stage so the sound is louder but more distorted B-)
Ø Fillmore East 1968 (Great classic bootleg, Soundboard A+)
Ø Jaguar Club 10/08/1968 (Audience recording, not very clear but ok for that time. Young Man Blues sounds a bit more jazzy, and must have the longest version of Magic Bus, worth having for that alone. B-)
Ø The Tommy Demos (Pete's demos of all the Tommy songs, well worth having A)
Ø Woodstock 1969 (Must have, A+)
Ø Electric Factory 1969 (Shorter version of the Philadelphia concert 1969, very good A+)

Marquee Programme

2007-10-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

When I was 16 I had a website similar to this, it was hosted on a site similar to Facebook. Unfortunately the facility for members to have their own pages got closed down.

Through the site I got taking to a guy who use to see the Who in the 60's. He emailed me a few pictures he kept as souvenirs, including the one below. The other one was of them with their signatures. (Interesting because John Entwistle was calling himself John Brown?) Stupidly, I accidently deleted it. Managed to keep this one though.

I've forgotten the guys name but still appreciate what he sent me.

UPDATE: 08/11/ After watching The Amazing Journey DVD now I know why John Entwistle called himself John Brown.

Damn it why didn't I keep the scanned photograph!

You Tube

2007-10-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I decided to open a new You Tube account and add the odd video here and there. Although it isn't the site it use to be and won't be as comprehensive as my Dailymotion page, it's still the most popular and can give more exposure to my blog and my other videos.

http://www.youtube.com/Natterswho

UPDATE: No sooner do I post this message that they delete my account again. Lol.

Now I wonder if I can get other people's accounts deleted, especially ones where videos were downloaded off me!

Pete Townshend - Won't Get Fooled Again Woodstock 1998
Uploaded by Natters515

Artwork

2007-09-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

San Francisco 13th December 1971

If you can't find any artwork on the Internet for your new bootleg, you can do what I do:

Lazy but can save time thinking of ideas!

I'm Back

2007-09-22T02:24:00.000-07:00

New flat, new PC and now an Internet connection! (Although wireless doesn't work and have to use a ten metre telephone cable!)

To celebrate I have four new videos at Dailymotion. Including this one:

The Who - 515 Birmingham 2007
Uploaded by Natters515

No Posts For A While

2007-08-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

Due to moving house there won't be any posts until I get a new PC! Watch this space; I'll be back!

Featured Bootleg

2007-07-25T10:40:00.001-07:00

Tales From The Who: Live at the Spectrum, Philadelphia December 4th 1973.

Track Listing:

1. I Can't Explain
2. Summertime Blues
3. My Generation
4. I Am The Sea
5. The Real Me
6. I'm One
7. Sea and Sand
8. Drowned
9. Bell Boy
10. Dr Jimmy
11. Pimball Wizard
12. See Me, Feel Me
13. Won't Get Fooled Again

Excellent soundboard recording from the 1973 US Tour. This is only one of few shows (until 1997) you get to hear quite a selection from Quadrophenia.

Rating: 9/10

Artwork

2007-07-18T12:38:00.000-07:00

2000 Tour Compilation

I created this CD cover after downloading songs from Pete's Townshend's official site during the
2000 tour. It's something I'm quite proud of so feel free to use it if you have a similar
collection of songs.

Marlay Park 29th June

2007-07-01T07:33:00.003-07:00

I hope this won’t be my last Who show: When I’m old and reminiscing the past, this time will be regarded as a bad memory. Not because of the Who’s performance but the trip as a whole. I won’t go into details.

One reason why I decided to go to Dublin was a band called the Answer were supporting. They are one of my favourites at the moment and the opportunity to see them and the Who on the same night was too good to miss.

The delay me getting to the City Centre and the heavy Dublin traffic on the special bus to Marlay park, I missed half of the Answer’s set.

Glastonbury has obviously done Marketing wonders for the band - both shows at Wembley were full and if Marlay Park wasn’t sold out it came close!

Most people I’m presuming were seeing the band for the first time. Never before (apart from festivals) have I seen so many young people come to see the band. I overheard conversations about Aerosmith on Tuesday night.

At the start I was a few rows back but as it went on I ended up close to the barrier.

Set List

I Can't Explain (8/10 Straight away I could tell Pete wasn’t fully energised)
The Seeker (9/10)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (10/10)
Fragments (8/10)
Who Are You (9/10)
Behind Blue Eyes (8/10)
Real Good Looking Boy (7/10 Grrr not again)
Relay (9/10 Really pleased to hear this.)
Baba O'Riley (10/10)
Drowned (9/10 A lot of irritating chat amongst the crowd but gave a great reception to Pete, which prompted him to extend the song for another 30 seconds)
A Man In A Purple Dress (9/10 I really enjoyed this performance compared to the previous shows, don’t know why)
Substitute (9/10 Great to hear this again after a few shows)
You Better You Bet (9/10)
My Generation/Cry If You Want (10/10)
Won't Get Fooled Again (8/10. During the whole set Pete was having problems with his guitars, i.e. fiddling with the pickups constantly. During this song, he kept pulling faces and was quite off putting for me. I’m sure the crowd enjoyed it)
The Kids Are Alright (9/10)
Pinball Wizard
Amazing Journey
Sparks
See Me Feel Me (9/10)
Tea And Theatre (8/10 With occasions like this I’m in two minds if this is the right song to finish the concert)

The atmosphere was electric and the guys seem to be overcome with it. Personally I prefer being amongst hard-core fans – but credit is due to the Dublin crowd. This was a good performance and a lot of people left the park happy. At times I felt Pete was going through the motions when comparing to Wembley.

All good things must come to an end. Even if they don't do another lengthy tour I really hope they don’t stop performing.

I recorded some videos on my camera but wasn’t happy with the quality so they were deleted.

This video posted by some one on You Tube is a bit distorted but it gives you an idea of the atmosphere

Wembley 27th June

2007-07-01T07:33:00.001-07:00

Two late nights in a week already, (On Sunday I went to Hyde Park to see Aerosmith) work during the day was slow and pretty tiring. Luckily second wind came when I got to Wembley that evening.

Met up with friends and drank a couple of beverages while the Charlatans were playing.

The seats were in B3 but cheekily we managed to get to the front row. Thank you to the Americans who let us stand behind them when in-fact the seats belonged to them.

I couldn’t predict if this show was to be the high quality that it was yesterday, even I would find that difficult.

Set List

I Can't Explain (8/10 Yep they look up for it again. Pete's first words were: "Fuck Shirley Bassey". Nice)
The Seeker (9/10)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (9/10)
Fragments (9/10)
Who Are You (10/10)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
Real Good Looking Boy (7/10 Nope sorry didn’t enjoy it again)
Wire & Glass (9/10 Judging by the other European shows they’d play this set of songs every other gig so it was a surprise to hear this again and guessed it be the same set list)
Baba O'Riley (10/10 Great as always. At this point Roger who was wearing a shirt had unbuttoned it and was bearing his chest. It seemed Pete wasn’t pleased he did this – just my assumption.)
Drowned (9/10)
A Man In A Purple Dress (8/10)
The Real Me (10/10 Can’t get enough. It was quite funny at the end where Roger got the lyrics mixed up)
You Better You Bet (9/10)
My Generation/Cry If You Want (10/10)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10)
The Kids Are Alright (9/10)
Pinball Wizard
Amazing Journey
Sparks
See Me Feel Me (10/10)
Tea And Theatre (9/10)

I haven’t put much description as I’d be repeating myself from the night previously – another excellent show. In my opinion the Tuesday gig was slightly better – maybe because there was a little more energy or by the way my position was with a step to the barrier, making it uncomfortable with the way I was standing.

It’s all worth it at the end of the day.

The Who - Mirror Door 27th 2007
Uploaded by Natters515

Wembley 26th June

2007-07-01T07:31:00.000-07:00

Having not seen The Who at Wembley Arena since the 2000 tour: I was looking forward to this one!

Travelling on the train straight after work, I got to the arena at 7:45. It was surprising the Charlatans had already started their set.

My seat was in block A3 – excellent tickets again due to purchasing them early through the Who tour Fan Club.

The boys came on at 8:45 and some fans ventured towards the front. (Including myself) A similar situation happened in Birmingham with no trouble. Unfortunately once Really Good Looking Boy started the stewards told everyone to go back to their seats.

After the Glastonbury performance, confidence was high and energy phenomenon.

What a show it was.

Set List

I Can't Explain (9/10
The Seeker (9/10 It became evident how up for it the band were; especially Pete. He is the deciding factor whether a show is good, or fantastic.)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (9/10 Nice to hear this again)
Fragments (8/10)
Who Are You (10/10 It’s played all the time yes, but cracking!)
Behind Blue Eyes (8/10)
Real Good Looking Boy (7/10 Where the stewards told us to move. To be honest this isn’t one of my favourite songs live)
Wire & Glass (9/10 Was glad they included this in the set)
Baba O'Riley (10/10 The crowd went mental after this song finished)
Drowned (9/10 Excellent acoustic performance)
A Man In A Purple Dress (8/10)
The Real Me (10/10 Absolutely brilliant is all I can say)
You Better You Bet (9/10 A song you love or hate, but enjoyable all the same)
My Generation/Cry If You Want (9/10)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 The energy was pulsating at this point)
The Kids Are Alright (9/10 Great and glad it’s the shorter version)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
Amazing Journey
Sparks
See Me Feel Me (10/10 Like I’ve said before the Tommy encore is brilliant but they’ve been doing it for two years now)
Tea And Theatre (9/10 Emotional)

There was great banter from Pete about having to top Shirley Bassey at Glastonbury and tampering with her helicopter but the result not going as they planned.

This was one of the best shows I’d seen in a while and what a great pleasure this tour has been.

Afterwards I met up with some friends who said they had a spare ticket for Wednesday night and asked if I wanted to come. I wasn’t planning on attending but it didn’t take much persuasion. It isn’t as if I have a lot of opportunities to do this.

So, 1 am I arrive home. The next day, it was to start all over again

What A Week!

2007-06-28T07:26:00.001-07:00

And It Ain't Finished Yet!

Sunday

Went to Hyde Park Calling festival with a friend, got home at 1 am.

Tuesday

Went to Wembley and met with up with some friends afterwards. Amazing show! They had a spare ticket for Wednesday and asked me if I wanted to go. How could I refuse?? Got home at 1 am.

Wednesday

At Wembley again. Another great show! Performance wise Tuesday was slightly better. Got back at 1 am.

Tomorrow

Will be in Dublin!

Reviews will be written at the weekend after I've recuperated!

John Entwistle - Rigor Mortis Sets In

2007-06-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

Featured Album: John Entwistle - Rigor Mortis Sets In

After his first two albums: Smash Your Head Against The Wall and Whistle Rymes - John Entwistle was devoid of ideas for his next offering. Consequently; it became a Rock 'N' Roll album with covers and his own compositions.

Reviews from Amazon:

"John Entwistle must have had a ton of material backlogged as a member of the Who in the late 1960s/early 1970s, as evidenced by the appearance of three solo albums in three years (SMASH YOUR HEAD AGAINST THE WALL, WHISTLE RHYMES, and RIGOR MORTIS SETS IN). As the latter title suggests, Entwistle's fascination with the macabre still served as the basis for much of his work. Comparable to his first two solo releases, RIGOR MORTIS SETS IN is not unlike his few compositions that graced The Who's records around this time. The difference here is a heavier and darker edge. Standouts include a remake of his classic "My Wife" (which is one of the gems on The Who's classic WHO'S NEXT), as well as the straight forward "Gimme That Rock N' Roll"."

"This album covers or spoofs many of the great rock and roll songs. Many of the lyrics make statements about the "rock and roll" lifestyle and how it affects some of the artists; some of the lyrics are quite dark, wrapped up in a warm and cuddly rock and roll style. There is however a marvellous version of Mr Bassman and the album is worth it for this alone."

"This is John Entwistle's rock 'n' roll album. The songs are, for want of a better word, parodies of early rock 'n' roll with several covers, a' la "Hound Dog", with a kind of authentic 50's recording sound. The album was made under a party atmosphere (a member of the Who in party mode, surely not!). JE was quoted as saying the bar bill was higher than the studio bill!The album was so called because JE thought 'Rigor Mortis' had set into rock 'n' roll. He had a great sense of humour - check out 'Roller Skate Kate' & 'Peg Leg Peggy'. Don't be fooled by the coffin lid cover, this album is FUN!"

Tracks:

Gimme That Rock 'N' Roll (8/10)
Mr.Bassman(9/10 Great version)
Do The Dangle (8/10)
Hound Dog (7/10)
Made In Japan (7/10)
My Wife (8/10)
Roller Skate Kate (7/10)
Peg Leg Peggy (10/10)
Lucille (7/10)
Big Black Cadillac (8/10)

John wrote some great songs for the Who, but its worth checking out his solo back catalogue.

Featured Bootleg

2007-06-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

The Who Live At The Roundhouse 29th October 2006 DVD

Not part of the encore series; this is one of the best performances of this tour and it is available to download at: www.longliverock.org

Track Listing:

01 - Introduction
02 - I Can't Explain
03 - The Seeker
04 - Who Are You
05 - Fragments
06 - Sound Round
07 - Pick Up The Peace
08 - Endless Wire
09 - We've Got A Hit
10 - They Made My Dreams Come True
11 - Mirror Door
12 - Baba O'Riley
13 - My Generation
14 - Mike Post's Theme
15 - Pinball Wizard
16 - Amazing Journey
17 - Sparks
18 - See Me Feel Me
19 - Tea & Theatre

Put together combining the BBCi webcast, BBC one sessions programme and radio broadcast from Radio 2 – and done so professionally.

Also features:

Parkinson October 2006
Letterman September 2006
Front Row October 2006 (Radio 4)
Roundhouse Interview (BBC Webcast)

9/10 Superb DVD

Birmingham NIA 22nd May 2007

2007-05-23T08:11:00.001-07:00

Taking advantage of membership to the Who Tour Fan Club; I purchased tickets for Birmingham on Wednesday two days before general sale. Unbeknown of how good the seats were, it was a great surprise when they arrived in the post.

Bringing my boyfriend to this gig; we made it a three day trip and stayed in Birmingham for two nights.

Arriving at the venue before Shack opened for the support slot - though aware the seats were in the front row, it still amazed me when we sat down – right smack in the middle! I have been close before, but this was the first time at the front!

Shack were very good; the singer had trouble with his acoustic guitar cutting out frequently. Their songs were decent and did a fine performance.

As the Led Zeppelin song: “When the Levee Breaks” played on the speakers that was the sign the boys were appearing shortly. Every time I listen to the song it will bring back fond memories of the shows attended recently.

They came on and everybody in the first few rows stood up. It remained that way for the rest of the gig.

Set List:

I Can't Explain (9/10)
The Seeker (9/10)
Relay (8/10 Great although Roger had forgotten some of the lyrics)
Fragments (9/10 Great tune from Endless Wire)
Who Are You (10/10 The Crowd livened up a bit)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
The Real Me (10/10 One of my favourites from Quad, nice to hear in the set again. Being close to Pino, I heard his bass very clearly and he did a great job)
Wire & Glass (9/10 Great to have this in the set list again after its absence at the Royal Albert Hall earlier in the year)
Baba O'Riley (10/10 The crowd went mad over this one)
Eminence Front (9/10 One of the better songs from It’s Hard. Also my boyfriend’s favourite Who song. Reason why: it’s on the Playstation game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas!)
Drowned (9/10)
A Man In A Purple Dress (8/10 I’d say this one is one of my least faves from Endless Wire. I do like the lyrics though)
Mike Post Theme (8/10 This is a great tune but I don’t know if it’s just me but they play it at a slower pace then they do on the record)
5.15 (10/10 Great to hear this again)
My Generation (10/10 Brill)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10)
Sparks (10/10)
See Me Feel Me (10/10 They’ve been doing the Tommy encore for a while now, I fancy a change)
Tea And Theatre (9/10 Great way to end the show I think)

Another fantastic show, Roger in good form and the rest. Happy to see the arena was mostly full. I was concerned that with this tour tickets haven’t been selling fast like they did say for the 2000 tour or the Teenage Cancer shows - but there were only a few seats empty. Pete and Roger said during the show that the crowd was quiet. They were in comparison to the Roundhouse but I remember the Royal Albert Hall show in 2004 where people in the front rows stayed sitting!

My next show is Wembley on the Tuesday and today (Saturday 26th) I made a last minute booking for a flight and gig ticket to Dublin. It isn’t every day I see my favourite new band the Answer and favourite band of all time playing on the same night!

"I'm off to Dublin Green......"

The Who - The Real Me Birmingham 2007
Uploaded by Natters515

Artwork

2007-04-29T04:12:00.000-07:00

There are some great sites where you can download artwork for your CD & DVD bootlegs, especially these ones:

http://www.hntgzr.com/

www.whoboots.com (If you're a member)

Some shows I haven't been able to find, so gradually I'll create my own artwork and if I'm happy with it, they will be posted here.

The Best - Live in Yokahama 1990

T-Shirts

2007-04-08T05:06:00.000-07:00

Over the years I've purchased many T-Shirts at Who concerts and I'm presenting them here. I may start collecting old T-Shirts.

If anyone knows where I can find the Roundhouse one from 2006 please let me know.

Shepherds Bush Empire 1999

Wembley 2000

Royal Albert Hall 2002

Royal Albert Hall 2004

Isle of Wight Festival 2004

Hyde Park 2006

2006 Who Convention

Royal Albert Hall 2007

Charity T-Shirt purchased from Eelpie Website

Based on the American 1973 Tour

Royal Albert Hall 31st March 2007

2007-04-01T05:07:00.000-07:00

Will I ever come away feeling disappointed with a show; I doubt it.

Once again the boys did a fantastic performance. Some people may say Pete had a few technical problems with his guitar and that it took a few songs for the band to warm up - but I'm not a perfectionist.

This time my parents came with me and we were seated in the circle; whilst not being the best seats we got a decent view.

The Electric City came on first. Their songs were ok but nothing to differentiate from other modern bands.

I didn't see the second band as I met up with people but apparently weren't that great either.

Before the boys came on there was a presentation for the Teenage Cancer Trust on the front screen, which featured teenagers in the wards and their experiences - after it finished some of the persons featured came onto the stage. One of them made a proposal to his girlfriend - it was very touching.

Set List:

I Can't Explain (8/10)
The Seeker (8/10)
Who Are You (9/10 Pete had a brief problem with his guitar)
Behind Blue Eyes (8/10)
Baba O'Riley (10/10 Great performance of this song)
Eminence Front (10/10 Best live version I've heard so far)
Man In A Purple Dress (9/10 Good but Pete's acoustic was slightly out of tune)
Black Widows Eyes (8/10 Nice to hear this for the first time)
You Better You Bet (9/10)
My Generation/Cry If You Want (10/10 The band were really fired up by now.)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10)
Sparks (10/10)
See Me, Feel Me (9/10)
Tea & Theatre (9/10 This song has definitely grown on me)

The Set List was shorter due to curfew at 11:00 pm. I would say the Roundhouse was better overall, but by My Generation the band hit their peak despite the Jet Lag.

Next stop Birmingham. A longer set list and more the same please!

Two Concert Reviews Added Recently

2007-03-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

I've posted reviews of Royal Albert Hall 2004 and Isle of Wight 2004. As they were saved as Draft for so long when I eventually posted them they didn't show date posted.

Royal Albert Hall 2004

Isle of Wight 2004

My Youtube Account Has Been Closed

2007-03-04T11:19:00.000-08:00

I didn't realise until somebody had post a comment. No warning or notification. I have a feeling that Ivor The Engine Driver's videos have gone as well. (And he had over 250) I hope people enjoyed them while they were on there, but like Napster, Youtube will no longer be as good.

Isle of Wight Festival 2004

2007-02-17T11:15:00.000-08:00

My first experience of a weekend music festival that included the Who headlining on the Saturday. I say weekend when in-fact we purchased a day ticket.

I and my boyfriend stayed in a hotel on the Island for two nights, getting the bus early on Saturday morning to travel to the festival site. Thinking it was a small island – the journey was quite lengthy. After arriving exactly on opening of 12:00 pm, we ate and took to the front of the stage at 1:00 pm during Lea Wood’s set.

Looking back now it was unnecessary to be near the front of the stage this early.

We perched ourselves behind two women who were Manic Street Preachers fans. As soon as the gates opened they got to the stage at 12 and stayed there till the Manics finished around 9:30 pm. Even I couldn’t do that.

Proud Mary were fairly competent, followed by Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel who were fairly good and the crowd loved Come Up & See Me.

British Sea Power were very strange and not fantastic music either, Electric Soft Parade were pretty poor. I remember them supporting the Who in 2002 at the Royal Albert Hall; they were far better then. The Stands were alright but nothing to get excited about but Jet were fantastic. By this time my legs were aching and as the weather was very warm, after a few hours of nothing to eat or drink – I started to feel faint and had to be carried over the barrier to a spot where my boyfriend rushed to buy a bottle of coke to make me feel better. It worked although disappointed as we agreed with the Manics fans that after the Manic Street Preachers finished their set, we could move into their space and be in the front row.

It wasn’t to be but by the time the Who came on, we managed to get close to the front as a lot of the crowd were moving back and forward.

Set List:

I Can't Explain (9/10 The band were up for this, as with any big event and the crowd loved it.)
Substitute (9/10 Even I was surprised by how familiar the crowd were to these songs)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (9/10 Brilliant although there were technical problems where the sound was cutting out on one speaker. In the end it was fixed and the problem didn’t happen again)
Who Are You (9/10)
Behind Blue Eyes (8/10)
Bargain (10/10)
Baba O'Riley (9/10 I think fans at Who concerts know this song more than general music fans, but received well none the less)
The Punk And The Godfather (9/10 A welcome change)
5.15 (10/10 Fantastic solo by Pete)
Love Reign O'er Me (9/10 Great performance by Roger)
Eminence Front (8/10)
Drowned (9/10 Was happy not the crowd weren’t nosy during this song)
Naked Eye (9/10 Good acoustic performance by Roger & Pete)
Real Good Looking Boy (8/10)
You Better You Bet (8/10)
My Generation (9/10)
Old Red Wine (8/10)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 Brilliant)
Pinball Wizard (9/10 Great Tommy melody)
Amazing Journey
Sparks
See Me Feel Me
Magic Bus (9/10 Was expecting them to be finished after See Me, but this was a welcome surprise)

Very tired in the end but well worth the trip. We stayed another night but went back home the next morning.

The Who - Who are you 2004
Uploaded by IvorTheEngineDriver

Royal Albert Hall 29th March 2004

2007-02-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

Only a week after Kentish Town, I had the pleasure of seeing the boys again at the Royal Albert Hall – first concert I was to drag my boyfriend to, being first of many. :)

Getting to our seats just in time to see the support group the Coral – we found out what restricted view seats were like; basically I couldn’t see Pino or Zak, although able to watch the most important members: Roger & Pete. Slightly aggravated with the money paid for them, (see Kentish Town review) the sound wasn’t disappointing.

The Coral were a fairly decent support, but considering them to be quite average. Once the boys came on, I was looking forward especially for the whole of Tommy to be performed.

When it got to Eminence Front, it became clear they weren’t going to play it and that it was a similar show to the Kentish Town concert.

Although annoyed by this, it was still an enjoyable concert, but there were some fans who were disappointed. I remember reading a fan's review saying an American fan flew to London especially to hear Tommy.

Set List:

Who Are You (8/10)
I Can't Explain (8/10)
Substitute (8/10)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (9/10)
Baba O'Riley (10/10)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
5.15 (10/10 Great guitar solo by Pete, wouldn't mind hearing that in the set again)
Sea And Sand (9/10 Nice to hear more from Quad)
Love Reign O'er Me (9/10 Great performance by Roger, despite him suffering from a cold)
Eminence Front (9/10 I do enjoy this live, despite not being one of my favourite Who songs)
You Better You Bet (8/10 Good but enjoyed it more at Kentish Town)
Real Good Looking Boy (8/10)
The Kid's Are Alright (9/10 Can't remember if this was the long or short version)
My Generation (10/10 What can I say)
Old Red Wine (9/10 Wouldn't mind if they played the whole song live, prefer it to Good Looking Boy)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 Never disappoints)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10 Amazing)
Sparks (10/10)
See Me Feel Me (9/10)

Great show but the Isle of Wight was to be even better, review to follow.

The Who - Who Are You RAH 2004
Uploaded by Natters515

Who European Tour 2007

2007-02-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

The Who have announced European Tour Dates for this year:

March

31: Royal Albert Hall, London

May

16: Lisbon Atlantico Pavilion

17: Madrid Sport Palace

19: Bilbao Arena

22: Birmingham National Indoor Arena

23: Sheffield Arena

25: Newcastle Metro Radio Arena

26: Hull City Football Club

30: Isle of Man TT Festival

June

1: Swansea City Football Club

2: Southampton Rose Bowl

5: Rotterdam Ahoy

6: Paris Bercy Arena

8: Antwerp Sportpalais

9: Stuttgart Schylerhalle

11: Verona Arena

13: Munich Opympichalle

14: Zurich Hallenstadion

16: Fulda Airfield

18: Hamburg Colorline Arena

23: Knowsley Hall Festival

24: Glastonbury Festival

26, 27: London Wembley Arena

29: Dublin Marley Park

30: Cork Live At Marquee

July

4: Norway Quart Festival

6: Stockholm The Globe

7: Denmark Roskilde Festival

9: Helsinki Hartwell Arena

It seems tickets for the UK dates go on sale Friday week. One question: why on weekdays when me and a lot of people are at work! I think my father will kill me if I ask him to try and get tickets again, after the joy of the Royal Albert Hall!

UPDATED: Downloads

2007-01-20T05:04:00.001-08:00

UPDATE: 04/02/2007 These files have now expired. More will be added next month providing I upload more vids to You Tube.

I have three new videos in my Downloads section. Please click on link below.

Downloads

UPDATED: Videos

2007-01-20T03:46:00.001-08:00

I've updated my Video Section, having added more videos to You Tube. Enjoy!

Videos

Kentish Town Forum 25th March 2004

2007-01-06T09:27:00.000-08:00

Now older and wiser, I had the responsibility to buy my own concert tickets. So far, not a good start. The Who announced a concert at the Royal Albert Hall for the Teenage Cancer Trust. On several occasions with the Who once the announcement is made, the tickets go on sale the next day. So after hearing about the show, I went straight onto the web to purchase tickets – only to find they’d already sold out!

Desperate to see the gig (as it was rumoured they’d be performing the whole of Tommy) I coughed up £140 for restricted view seats from Ebay that at face value were around £50.

The same occurred for the three warm-up shows at the Kentish Town Forum, but with the amount of money I spent I was happy to see them just the once.

The first two shows went down a storm and after reading numerous positive reviews and thinking there weren’t going to be many opportunities to see the guys at a small venue, I purchased one ticket from EBay for the 3rd show at the last minute – not spending more than face value!

The ticket was for seats in the upper tier but ended up standing at the front of the tier with a good view of the stage.

Set List

Who Are You (8/10 First time hearing this as an opener, but I prefer it later in the set)

I Can't Explain (9/10 Better as an opener)

Substitute (8/10)

Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (9/10 Really went for power on this one)

Another Tricky Day (8/10 One of the better tracks from Face Dances)

Bargain (9/10 I’m repeating myself here but I always enjoy this track live and they seem to do brilliantly every time)

Baba O'Riley (9/10 Crowd favourite as always. Which is understandable)

Behind Blue Eyes (8/10 Great song but wouldn’t be too disappointed if they dropped it)

5:15 (9/10 Missed John’s bass solo, but Pete does a great guitar one)

Sea And Sand (9/10 First time hearing this live, great track)

Love Reign O'er Me (9/10 Love this song)

Eminence Front (9/10 Not always fantastic live, but I enjoyed it on this night)

You Better You Bet (9/10 Liked Simon’s backing vocals)

Won't Get Fooled Again (9/10)

My Generation (9/10)

Not a bad venue but the set was slightly shorter due to Roger wanting to rest his voice for the next show. I was slightly disappointed but looking forward to the RAH gig. It was also the first time I saw Pino with the band. As he was still low in the mix, couldn’t really form an opinion. Since then I believe he was the best person to come after John. (Never replacing him)

The Who - Bargain Live 2004
Uploaded by Natters515

Featured Album

2006-12-14T07:44:00.000-08:00

Pete Townshend – White City

His third solo album - released in 1985; based on a narrative about urban life in West London. Apart from Chinese Eyes and The Iron Man; Pete Townshend’s solo albums are as important to me as the Who’s. White City being no exception.

Reviews from Amazon

"WHITE CITY, which Pete Townshend called a novel, recalls the depth of TOMMY. There are many memorable tracks on this collection, including "Hiding Out", whose deceptive sweetness belies the detached destruction of "Crashing by Design". Thebracing "Face the Face" is as musically gripping as any of Townshend's solo work, as is the rumbling "Give Blood". PinkFloyd guitarist David Gilmour lends on a hand on the formerand Big Country drummer Mark Brzezicki puts his walloping stamp on various cuts as well. "

"The soundtrack to a very hard-to-find video, White City finds Pete doing what he does best. Reflecting.
Although a lot of the symbolism will mean nothing to anyone outside London (White City is a London housing estate apparently) the images can be applied to anywhere. We all know someone who 'drives to comittees in their German car'...we can all 'look over chequered fields to see the towering web of steel'.
Some fantastic guitar work by Dave Gilmour finishes off this unusual album...I dock the CD one star for not including the extensive sleeve notes provided with the vinyl version I bought oh so many years ago!"

Track Listing:

Give Blood (9/10)
Brilliant Blues 8/10
Face The Face( 9/10 Punchy song with a great bass line)
Hiding Out (8/10 Nice vocals)
Secondhand Love (8/10 Standard blues riff, great lyrics)
Crashing By Design (9/10)
I Am Secure (8/10 Reminds me of God Speaks of Marty Robbins)
White City Fighting (10/10 In my list of favourites, fantastic chorus and great melody.)
Come To Mama (9/10 Great Who-like track.)
Night School (7/10 Bonus track on the new re-mastered version. The version on the film I prefer) Save It For Later (9/10 Great cover version of which I'm yet to hear the original.)
Hiding Out (7.5/10 Different mix

Overall = 8/10

Not his best conceptual story but holds some of his best solo work.

Pete Townshend - Secondhand Love
Uploaded by Natters515

Pete Townshend - Give Blood
Uploaded by Natters515

UPDATED: Videos

2006-11-27T11:26:00.000-08:00

I've updated my Video Section, having added more videos to You Tube. Enjoy!

Videos

UPDATED: Concert Programmes

2006-11-27T11:21:00.000-08:00

The Roundhouse booklet has been added to my Concert Programmes post:

http://natterswho.blogspot.com/2006/08/concert-programmes_09.html

Endless Wire - The Suspense Is Over

2006-11-09T11:02:00.000-08:00

Following on from my previous post on the 15 September:

"October couldn't come quickly enough for me; the gig at the Roundhouse on the 29th and then the release of the forthcoming album Endless Wire on the 31st.Wire & Glass had exceeded my expectations immensely. I really didn't know what to expect and when I downloaded the tracks off iTunes the number of listens in a week had surpassed Face Dances in four years.The songs I've heard so far from Endless Wire I'm predicting I'll feel as positive. Majority of opinions from Forums indicate the new material will be rated highly. I'm curious with the number of slow songs on the album - but that could be because Pete probably felt in the past he was not able to express himself that way with The Who - now he can. Just my opinion of course."

I have now listened to all the songs and can give a definitive opinion. It won't be comprehensive as others have written some great reviews.

Fragments

9/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REkqzgeFiyQ

Good opening. It takes a couple of listens but has a strong chorus.

Man In A Purple Dress

8/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vMSnWgUDws

I wasn't sure after the first listen but now it's very enjoyable. I probably won't listen to it all the time but strong songwriting from Pete.

Mike Post Theme

10/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ykm-IrVhDKQ

One of my favourites. Classic Who since Who Are You. A real pleasure for years to come.

In The Ether

8/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTfVYzLqi7g

This has been criticised by some fans. I actually like it. An acquired taste but an emotional song that touches you.

Black Widows Eyes

8/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsIhAAHC2bA

My opinion keeps changing on this but now I enjoy listening to it. Not classic Who but certainly listenable.

Two Thousand Years

8/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGHLlDT8V5g

When I first heard this on ITA I was excited for a rocky version on the album. That hasn't happened but the song sticks in your head.

God Speaks Of Marty Robbins

9/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_w_1dlwP48

I didn't like this after viewing the video on You Tube. Now I love it. Could have a backing orchestra but nevermind.

It's Not Enough

9/10

Sounds a bit "80's" but a great song with music written by Rachel Fuller.

You Stand By Me

9/10

Short & sweet

Wire & Glass

9/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7jHbyFu9aM (Sound Round & Pick Up The Peace)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raMY-YOGY0M (Endless Wire)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPvQIJM6ybw (We Got A Hit & They Made My Dream Come True)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Z2zHo3Junc (Mirror Door)

A piece that stands up with the back catalogue. Sound Round, Pick Up The Peace, Endless Wire & We've Got A Hit 10/10. They Made My Dream & Mirror Door 9/10. Unholy Trinity & Trilby's Piano 8/10 but I haven't listened to them as much.

Tea & Theatre

8/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqmFC07LmFY

This is probably my least favourite but still can enjoy it when in that frame of mind.

We Got A Hit (Extended)

10/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Se9pClsuSE

I prefer the mix of the shorter version but excellent song.

Endless Wire (Extended)

10/10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvYq9zaDrj8

Love it, basically.

Overall I give the album 8 out of 10. You have to give it a few listens before making an opinion which I did and can safely say Pete Townshend has wrote some great songs here. I'm guessing it'll appear in my CD player more than It's Hard, Face Dances, Who Are You and possibly By Numbers. That's got to make it good. I'm glad they (meaning two) didn't die before they got old.

Roundhouse 29th October 2006

2006-10-30T02:03:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: 04/11 Finally able to upload the ticket! Why does blogger do that!

Well it couldn’t have started out any better. As I approached the venue, Billy Nicholls, Pino and Simon T all walked passed me! I tried to grab Pino’s attention but to no avail – Billy smiled at me though. I wonder if I’ll ever have the chance to talk to Simon.

The Roundhouse is very impressive; modern and very spacious. The Fratellis were supporting; playing a version of The Seeker to get the crowd going.

My tactic to get near the stage is to go from the side and ended up with a good position few rows back on Pete’s side. After what felt like a lifetime the boys appeared at Nine and headed straight into I Can’t Explain.

Set List:

I Can't Explain

(9/10 My enjoyment was slightly spoiled by people pushing and having red wine spilt on me. Cheers for that! My good position turned into OK)

The Seeker

(9/10 Now settled I could enjoy the show)

Who Are You

(10/10 Brilliant)

Fragments

(9/10 I enjoyed this, I think I’ll grow to love the songs on Endless Wire which I wasn’t sure about)

Wire & Glass

- Sound Round - Pick Up The Peace - Endless Wire - We've Got A Hit- They've Made My Dreams Come True- Mirror Door

(9/10 So much tighter than earlier performances from Brighton & Leeds)

Baba O'Riley

(10/10 This was the best live version I’ve ever heard! They were just so up for it. The woman screaming behind me just shows how exciting this band really is)

My Generation

(10/10 Fantastic great jam at the end)

Man In A Purple Dress

(8/10 Shame people have to start chatting during the song)

Mike Post Theme

(10/10 One of my favourites from EW, this was close to the recorded version which is more rocky than previous live versions)

Pinball Wizard

(9/10)

Amazing Journey

(10/10 Brilliant the whole Tommy portion was great)

Sparks

(10/10)

See Me, Feel Me

(10/10 Best version I’ve ever heard again)

Tea and Theatre

(9/10 Great)

The difficulty purchasing the ticket for the show I concluded that the venue would be filled by mostly hard-core fans. To my surprise I overheard people saying this was their first show and the new material was received well but with no familiarity.

There was no encore which was a slight disappointment but I guessed they had to finish at a certain time. Roger was on fine form and especially Zak. Pete seemed to be really up for it and that is important to whether it’s a great show or not. I witnessed yet another fantastic show.

The Who - We Got a Hit 2006
Uploaded by IvorTheEngineDriver

Video Section UPDATED

2006-10-16T05:50:00.000-07:00

I've updated my Video Section, having added more videos to You Tube. Enjoy!

Videos

My Room

2006-10-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

Can you tell I'm A Who Fan?

Some girls buy make-up & clothes - I just buy CDs and DVDs. Anybody have more?

(Yes I still live with my parents but I am saving up for a house!)

Black Widows Eyes

2006-10-08T03:06:00.000-07:00

Since Sky + was installed in the house my Internet has decided to play up, bringing back memories of a 28 Kps Dial Up Connection. So when listening to Black Widows Eyes on Eblast it would stop and start every 20 seconds. Trying my best to ignore this I quite liked the song - definitely the potential to be one of my favourites on the album. Again there's mixed opinions but where a lot of people like Tea & Theatre I'm not too fussed about it. Everyone's different I guess.

http://testing.universalmotown.com/thewho/eblast/eblast.html

Royal Albert Hall 7th February 2002

2006-10-01T06:36:00.000-07:00

Only a week after the Watford performance I had the pleasure of seeing the guys again at the Royal Albert Hall. The seats were a good view situated in the circle. (With a price tag of £60 they had to be decent) The acoustics are high-quality but would prefer Wembley Arena any day. (And it’s easier to get to)

We entered the arena while the support act: The Electric Soft Parade were performing. Their live set was ok, a lot better than two years later when they appeared at the Isle of Wight festival. (They seem to have disappeared since then)

Whilst this concert wasn’t as enjoyable as Watford, it was worth the trip and price. (In more ways than one)

Set List:

Can't Explain (8/10)
Substitute (8/10)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (10/10)
I Don't Know Myself (9/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10)
Pinball Wizard (8/10)
I'm Free (9/10)
My Wife (8/10 Unbeknown to me that I was to hear this for the last time)
Who Are You (9/10)
Getting In Tune (8/10)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
Drowned (10/10)
I'm One (10/10 Great to hear two acoustic performances)
Baba O'Riley (9/10 Always the crowd pleaser)
You Better You Bet (8/10 Wouldn’t miss it if they didn’t play it again)
5.15 (10/10 Having heard this solo a few times, I should have appreciated it more than I did at the time)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 Always great live)
The Kids Are Alright (9/10)
Summertime Blues (Don’t quite remember why they had to start again)
Summertime Blues #2 (9/10 Fabulous. Believe John wasn’t quite as rude with the lyrics this time)
Young Man Blues (10/10 Brilliant)
My Generation (10/10 Enough said)

Unfortunately this was the last time I was to see John Entwistle live. Four months later he died before the Who started their US tour. I remember the morning my parents told me. I felt like it was a member of the family and being very upset for the next few weeks. I wasn’t sure if Roger and Pete would carry on with the band. After the decision was made, I had different opinions. Since then I’m glad they did, as it’s given me the opportunity to buy new material from the band and continue to see them live.

Endless Wire: The Suspense Is Killing Me

2006-09-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

October couldn't come quickly enough for me; the gig at the Roundhouse on the 29th and then the release of the forthcoming album Endless Wire on the 31st.

Wire & Glass had exceeded my expectations immensely. I really didn't know what to expect and when I downloaded the tracks off iTunes the number of listens in a week had surpassed Face Dances in four years.

The songs I've heard so far from Endless Wire I'm predicting I'll feel as positive. Majority of opinions from Forums indicate the new material will be rated highly. I'm curious with the number of slow songs on the album - but that could be because Pete probably felt in the past he was not able to express himself that way with The Who - now he can. Just my opinion of course.

Of the songs I've heard so far:

Man In A Purple Dress

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vMSnWgUDws

Has taken a few listens but it's grown on me.

Mike Post Theme

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ykm-IrVhDKQ

Love it love it

In The Ether

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTfVYzLqi7g&NR

I really like this song. On the demo version I'm not keen on his voice but the version on You Tube is great.

Two Thousand Years

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGHLlDT8V5g&NR

Bloody brilliant. Can't wait for the album version

God Speaks of Marty Robbins

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_w_1dlwP48

Nice though I prefer Uncertain Girl which won't be on the album.

It's Not Enough

Just listened to it for the second time. Opinions have been mixed on this song, I think its great but different style to the other songs. Pete's guitar work is fantastic.

You Stand By Me

Really liked this. You can download the version from ITA in my downloads section. I presume the track will be longer on the album.

Wire & Glass

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPxpqesFYgU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SonnbeydLnU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4YsMscD4JI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbU2_m7nf2w

The longer versions are gonna be brilliant. Two of the You Tube links are videos I've posted from Leeds & Brighton. As the US tour progresses the performance will get tighter.

As with the rest of the tracks on Wire & Glass, I love every song.

Tea & Theatre

This will either be a love it or hate it amongst Who fans. I'm not too sure at the moment.

I'll give a more in-depth review once the CD comes out. I'm optimistic so far!

Download Section UPDATED

2006-09-10T03:16:00.000-07:00

I've updated my Downloads Section.

Downloads

Video Section UPDATED

2006-09-03T05:35:00.000-07:00

I've updated my Video Section, having added more videos to You Tube. Enjoy!

Videos

Watford - 31st January 2002

2006-09-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

I’d already got my tickets for the RAH show (review to follow) but after the announcement that the Who would be performing at the Watford Coliseum; I had to go!

Thankfully, even though I was dragging my parents to the Royal Albert Hall gig, they agreed to accompany me again. (And purchase the tickets of course; I was a poor student) Father yet again got through to the box office after redialling thousands of times. (He’s good at that)

Watford is virtually only a few miles from Luton, so we got there in plenty of time and were seated for the support act. I can’t remember what band it was but wasn’t exactly impressed.

The seats were located in the upper tier of a relatively small venue - the ground floor was all standing. If we used our initiative we could have attempted to stand but the view was good and the sound decent.

Here's the Set List:

I Can't Explain (9/10)
Substitute (9/10)
Anyway, Anyhow Anywhere (10/10)
I Don't Know Myself (9/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10 First time I heard this live and Tommy being my favourite album I couldn't have been happier)
Sparks (10/10)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
I'm Free (10/10 Love this song, wish they played it live now)
My Wife (9/10)
Who Are You (10/10 Always brilliant)
Getting In Tune (9/10 Great stuff)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
Drowned (9/10)
Baba O' Riley (10/10 Always will be popular)
The Real Me (10/10 One of my faves from Quadrophenia)
You Better You Bet (9/10)
5:15 (10/10 Good old Johnny Twinkle delivers again)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 Great as always)
The Kids Are Alright (9/10 I think it was the long version again)
Baby Don't You Do It (10/10 Wow can't believe what I'm hearing!)
My Generation (10/10 Back to the usual)
Summertime Blues (10/10 Another old live track brought back years later! John Entwistle said some different lyrics for his vocal part. I won’t tell you what they were but it was rude and quite hilarious)
Young Man Blues (10/10 A fantastic surprise to end the set)

Judging by the marks I’ve given for each performance; this was one of the best shows I’ve been to. The performance was exhilarating and with the most varied set list.

My Tattoo

2006-08-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

As featured on Joe Giorgianni's site, here is a picture of my tattoo of Pete Townshend about to smash his guitar; inspired by a set of stickers handed out at the Shepherd's Bush concert promoting The Who Direct Web Site.

If anybody has got a tattoo of the Who or is thinking of having one done, post a comment and tell me what you're getting!

Wembley Arena 15/11/2000

2006-08-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

Four months spent in the US, the Who returned to the UK to play 11 shows. I attended the Wednesday 15th November show at Wembley Arena. This for me was my birthday present. (Five days later, age 16) It was my father again who redialled Wembley Box office at 9 am constantly and luckily managed to get threw and purchased tickets at the side fairly close to the stage nearest to Pete. A couple of hours later, tickets were sold out.

We drove to the venue and missed the support act Joe Strummer & the Mescaleros. I wasn’t too fussed at the time but have lived to regret it – a few years later Joe Strummer died.

The seats had a good view and Wembley is renowned for having a good sound system, but for atmosphere this concert was the worst. The majority of the audience I believe were either seeing the Who for the first time or hadn’t seen them in years; nobody stood up and were rather quiet compared to Shepherds Bush. They also would get up to buy watered-down beer when the boys played unknown tracks like “I Don’t Even Know Myself” and retrieve to their seats and be irritating shouting “Magic Bus!” every five minutes.

That entire aside, the concert was great. Here is the set list:

I Can’t Explain (8/10 Always a good opener)
Substitute (9/10)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (10/10)
The Relay (10/10 Love this track. Should have been on an album)
My Wife (8/10)
Baba O'Riley (9/10 Always the crowd favourite)
I Don’t Even Know Myself (9/10 fantastic, though I was at times distracted by members of the audience getting up to buy beer!)
Bargain (10/10 I’ll always enjoy this song, one of my favourites)
Drowned (9/10 Enjoyed it but my dad had to tell off the “beer” guys in front of us as they were chatting during the performance. If you want to talk and drink alcohol, go to the pub!)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
The Real Me (10/10 Love it, wished they played this on the current tour)
You Better You Bet (9/10 Nice and poppy)
Who Are You (10/10 Great stuff)
5:15 (10/10 John’s bass solo astounded the audience)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10)
Lets See Action (9/10 Good to hear this)
The Kids are Alright (8/10)
Mary Anne with the Shaky Hands (9/10 Another rare treat)
My Generation (10/10)

After the show I wanted more. If I was the age I was now with a full time job – I would have attended the next night and the Royal Albert Hall show. I was desperate to go to the Teenage Cancer Trust gig, but having no money, still at school and parents not concerned about going; I couldn’t. Roll on 2002.

The video is on the night of the 16th. I was meant to buy the 15th, but brought the wrong video!

The Who - My Generation/You Are Forgiven
Uploaded by Natters515

Downloads

2006-08-13T09:32:00.000-07:00

In this section every month I'll have on offer a selection of my You Tube videos as files to download via my "YouSendIt" account. Once you've clicked on the link it goes to another page where you have the option to download the file. It's limited to 100 downloads or 7 days.

I presume due to the files being fairly large YouSendIt require you to have an account before downloading them. It's easy to set up and is free:

http://www.yousendit.com/

Give Blood From White City

Click Here To Download

From the movie "White City".

Relay from Russell Harty Plus

Click Here To Download

Performing Relay for the Russell Harty show in 1973. Sang live but to a background tape.

Secondhand Love from White City

Click Here To Download

From the movie "White City".

Video Section UPDATED

2006-08-13T03:29:00.000-07:00

I've updated my Video Section, having added more videos to You Tube. Enjoy!

Videos

Concert Programmes

2006-08-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

Here's some scanned pictures of all the Who (or related) concert programmes I've collected so far. Unfortunately, my scanner wasn't big enough for certain ones so some aren't the full cover.

Lifehouse: Pete Townshend

Nice little programme with an article about the Lifehouse project from the beginning and a brief history on Pete Townshend's career.

From The Bush To The World

Best programme I've seen so far. As well as a nice collection of photos it has written articles on the bands history and shows various different Single record covers from around the World.

Teenage Cancer Trust 05/02/2002 - 09/02/2002

Quite a large programme (in length) giving details on all the bands that were appearing

Teenage Cancer Trust 2004

A better presented programme giving details on all the bands that were appearing

Isle of Wight Festival 2004

Nicely presented with articles on all bands playing at the festival

The Who 2006 Convention

Fantastic programme on the convention.

2006 European Tour

Great collection of pictures but only one article by Pete Townshend

T In The Park 2006

Small sized detailed programme about the festival and the line-ups.

Roundhouse 2006

Given out free at the venue with details of all the groups that performed for the Electric Proms.

Royal Albert Hall 2007

This programme was given out free. Details of all the bands that featured at the Albert Hall.

Pete Townshend – Live At Sadlers Wells 25.02.2000

2006-08-05T03:54:00.000-07:00

After the success of the Lifehouse radio play and subsequent six CD box set, Pete announces 2 shows at London’s Sadlers Wells theatre. Having enjoyed the Shepherd’s Bush gig so much, I decided I couldn’t get enough of Pete and the Who.

Purchased two tickets from Ticket Web again, choosing seats on the upper tier section front row; fantastic view!

The theatre is more renowned for showing ballet; you realised this by seeing the advertisements on the board outside. Once inside the layout and acoustics were impressive – they could definitely present more established acts here.

Settled into our seats, the show starts. 5 minutes in, it felt like a classical concert – I couldn’t foresee the rest of the show. This was the line-up of his band:

John Bundrick - Backing Vocal, Keyboards
Chyna - Vocals
Peter Hope-Evans - Harmonica
Jody Linscott - Percussion
Chucho Merchan - Bass
Billy Nicholls -Vocals
Phil Palmer -Vocals
Cleveland Watkiss - Vocals

Plus the London Chamber Orchestra

Teenage Wasteland begins and the Solo performance commences. Though not as strident or aggressive as a Who show, it was a great concert. Pete described in detail about the story of Lifehouse and the eventual release of the box set. (I brought at the venue)

Fantastic night. It would be a nine month wait till my next Who concert.

Here’s the Set List:

One Note – Prologue (7/10 Classical)
Purcell: Fantasia Upon One Note (7/10 Classical)
Teenage Wasteland (9/10 Nice contrast to the Baba O’Reily version)
Time Is Passing (9/10 prefer the Who’s version but great nonetheless)
Love Ain't For Keeping (10/10 the backing vocalists sang this song, very nice)
Going Mobile (9/10)
Greyhound Girl (10/10 One of my favourite PT solo songs)
Mary (10/10 I don’t understand why the Who never recorded this)
I Don't Know Myself (9/10)
Bargain (9/10 a slower pace to the Who’s version, which I prefer)
Pure And Easy (10/10 Should have been on Who’s Next)
Let's See Action (10/10 Extended bridge. There was a 20 minute break after this song)
Hinterland Rag (6/10)
Baba O'Riley (9/10 Love it though I’m listening to Teenage Wasteland more these days, possibly as I’ve heard it at every concert)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10 slightly different version)
Sister Disco (9/10)
Getting In Tune (10/10)
Relay (8/10 Like the Who’s version better)
Who Are You (9/10)
Join Together (10/10)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10)
Song Is Over (10/10 One of my favourites from Who’s Next)
Can You Help The One You Really Love (7/10 He’s wrote better since then, i.e. Wire & Glass)

Videos

2006-08-02T05:22:00.000-07:00

You Tube is a website that enables people to broadcast videos saved from their PC’s - so that others can view them, add their comments and rate them. Once the videos are uploaded they are viewed as a flash file, meaning the video is loaded quickly and you don’t have to download to view it.

Below are videos I've ripped myself from DVD boots or old VHS. I'm adding videos constantly, so keep checking the site:

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=Natters515

Some of these will also feature in my Download section.

Pete Townshend - Give Blood from White City

The Who - Relay on the Russell Harty Plus Show 1973

The Who - Magic Bus Part 1 Voorburg 1973

The Who At Shepherds Bush Empire 22 December 1999

2006-08-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

First ever Who gig – I couldn’t have been more excited. Although it was a mix of excitement and fear; will they be any good? Can they still cut it as a live band?

I first discovered them in 1998 after listening to My Generation The Best Of and watching The Kids Are Alright movie on VH1. For the whole year I was mesmerised. In-fact 1998 was a good time to discover them; in 1999 they announced they were performing at the Chicago House of Blues as a five piece!

Awestruck by the Who’s past, could the present be as inspiring? As soon as the tickets went on sale at 9:00 am I brought them off Ticketweb – I couldn’t wait!

After queuing for ages around the outside of the venue, me and my dad went straight for the stage: second row on Pete’s side! Whilst waiting for the band to come on we got talking to two guys who paid £80 each for tickets. I swear I’ve seen them at other concerts since then. (If my memory serves me correctly, they were from Wales)

As the boys came on and Pete struck the first chords of I Can’t Explain – I was in Who heaven. I’ve never enjoyed a gig as much as this one. I have seen better performances (Listening back to the show I realise that Roger’s voice wasn’t his best and the band was pretty loose) but it will remain special to me. (And so far the most varied Set List)

Here's my review of each individual song (Well, the ones I can remember anyway)

I Can't Explain (9/10 Hang on, has Pete got a hole in his trousers? Isn't he suppose to be a millionaire? Who Cares!)
Substitute (9/10)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (10/10 I've always enjoyed this live, never heard a bad version)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
My Wife (9/10)
Baba O'Riley (10/10)
Pure And Easy (7/10 Great to hear this though Roger did sing out of tune occasionally)
Getting In Tune (8/10)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
You Better You Bet (9/10)
Happy Jack (7/10 You could tell it was a spur of the moment thing)
Magic Bus (9/10)
Boris The Spider (8/10)
Who Are You (9/10)
After The Fire (8/10 Nice song, doubt they'll play it again)
5:15 (8/10 This was the first time my attention was focused on the bass guitar! Roger also had problems in his ear phones)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 Fantastic, one of my favourite Who songs)
The Kids Are Alright (8/10 I think this was when they started to extend the song, correct me if I'm wrong. Was good though I prefer the shorter version)
Naked Eye (9/10 Thrilled to hear a rarity)
My Generation (10/10 The crowd goes mad!)

The Who - Anyway Anyhow Anywhere 1999
Uploaded by Natters515

The Who At T In The Park

2006-08-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

From reading other people’s views on the gig, it seems a bit negative. I personally thought it was brilliant, and out of the nine times I’ve seen them since 1999, this was one of the best. This may be due to me being in the 2nd row, (Something not achieved since Shepherds Bush Empire) but they were really up for this one.

Got to the main stage when Hard Fi were on, where there was a bizarre queuing system to get near the stage. I suppose it was for safety reasons.

Artic Monkeys
Don’t understand the hype of this band. The same could be said for a lot of British bands. (I.e. Dirty Pretty Things, Baby Shambles, Razorlight) The style and the songs, all sound the same. Situated towards the left of the stage, the amplification from the bass drum was far too loud, hardly hearing the vocals or the guitars.

Strokes

The sound was a bit better, but bass drum still too loud. They were ok, but their songs don’t exactly get me excited.

The Who

After The Strokes finished, I was hoping all the young people in front would leave so that a front row place was accomplished. Not many of them moved.
The lads came on to a great reception. Live 8 and CSI have done wonders to revitalise their career – and no problems with the sound.
Same set list as Hyde Park but without Bargain, Drowned and The Kids Are Alright.
Pete was really up for this one, and the boys gave a blistering set. I couldn’t see any problems with Roger’s voice – I guess being so near the front you don’t notice these things. I thought the scream in Won’t Get Fooled Again was the best he’d done in ages.
Favourites: Seeker, AAA, Mike Post and Tommy set.
Not much more I can say. The festival all round was excellent. Really hope they do more UK dates soon. Maybe after the US tour?

Here's the full set list:

Can't Explain (9/10)
The Seeker (8/10 great though I wish they didn't cut out one of the solos)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (10/10 Awesome as always)
Who Are You (10/10 Quite amusing hearing Scottish people sing the chorus)
Mike Post Theme (10/10 Looking forward to hearing this on the album)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
Real Good Looking Boy (8/10 See Hyde Park review)
Baba O' Riley (10/10 Always gets the crowd going)
Love Reign O'er Me (9/10 Hyde Park slightly better but only just)
My Generation (10/10 Always going to be popular)
Won't Get Fooled Again (10/10 Absolutely awesome)
Substitute (10/10 Great)
Pinball Wizard (10/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10 As Tommy is my favourite album I will always enjoy this encore)
Sparks (10/10)
See Me Feel Me (10/10)

The Who - Love Reign O'er Me T In The Park 2006
Uploaded by Natters515

The Who At Hyde Park 2006

2006-08-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

Two years since the Isle of Wight festival, and well worth the wait. Met up with Paul (Who I've been trading with for years) and his girlfriend Zara. It was great to watch the band with someone who has as much passion for the band as I have. Paul also had a free VIP pass :)

Saw Rose Hill Drive - who were quite good though the songs didn't really grab me - and part of Ocean Colour Scene's set.We got into the VIP area with its nice toilets and lounge area. In the lounge I saw Billy Nicholls and Ross Halfin. Also met Pino and his family. Shook his hand, really nice bloke. And tall. Later on we saw the Casbah Club who are good as always on the second stage. Got back to the VIP area, who was standing there: Roger Daltrey. Couldn't believe it. I had to be pushed into getting the picture taken - thank you Zara. (Below is the image, me to the right of Roger, Zara to the left.)

When the Who started on the main stage, despite being a few feet from the front, they had large screens and a great sound system. Fantastic. I particularly liked Bargain – very powerful! I was hoping to hear the mini opera, but I can understand Pete dropping it for the bigger shows. Mike Post was great though. The Kids Are Alright was quite amusing with Pete & Roger getting the words mixed up. All in all the performance was excellent. Wished I’d gone to the earlier shows, once you see them the addiction comes in and you have to see more. Why towns so far away?!!

Here's the set list:

I Can't Explain (10/10)
The Seeker (9/10 Really enjoyed this though they cut off one of the solos)
Anyway Anyhow Anywhere (10/10 Always enjoyed live)
Who Are You (9/10 Very well known thanks to Live 8 and CSI)
Bargain (10/10 Awesome)
Behind Blue Eyes (9/10)
Real Good Looking Boy (8/10 They seem to be playing this at a slower pace, not one of my favourites live)
Drowned (9/10)
Mike Post Theme (10/10 First time I've heard this live, brilliant. I feel this version is a bit faster than the recent performances)
Baba O'Riley (9/10)
Love Reign O'er Me (10/10 One of my favourites from Quadrophenia)
The Kids Are Alright (8/10 As mentioned above Roger & Pete were getting the words mixed up)
My Generation (10/10)
Won't Get Fooled Again (9/10)
Substitute (10/10)
Pinball Wizard (9/10)
Amazing Journey (10/10)
Sparks (10/10)
See Me Feel Me (10/10)

The Who - Mike Post Theme 2006
Uploaded by IvorTheEngineDriver

Blog Dedicated To The Who

2006-08-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

I've decided to split my Blog into three parts:

Natters' Rants
Natters' Music Blog
Natters Who Blog

This one will be dedicated entirely to The Who. I'll be posting reviews of all the gigs I've been to, pictures, videos and anything else of interest. I welcome any opinions or suggestions to my posts. You also don't have to be a Blogger to add a comment.

Hope you enjoy