The Who - the Studio Albums

[Thenop]

Of course Tommy is a stone cold classic, perhaps the definitive concept album. And that means it has it drawbacks: everything should fall into place, the story needs to coincide with the music which means one or the other sometimes has be suited to tailor the needs of the other.
Having said that: I really like the album. Like, not Love.
Yes I think the concept is brilliant as is most of the music, the Overture is a grand entrance and it literally sets the tone. Like Underture it repeats many of the musical patterns the album displays. And therein, you said it already, lies the crux: it is all a bit much.
I don't consider it being a rock album at all, not of the rock opera albums really are. The variety of styles and the fat the story is leading makes for a less concise collection of songs. That particular collection, as it would be, was just around the corner.
Anyway, my favourite tracks here (of course) Pinball Wizard, Acid Queen, I'm Free and of course We're Not Gonna Take It with the See Me, Feel Me part being the obvious highlight.

It is to me a bit like the Wall: I can listen to it as a whole, but am happy when it's over.

One thing that the album brought out though: The Who toured it so extensively that they became the ultimate live band at the time. Not sure whether you'll cover live albums, (or at least just the one) but if ever there was one that deserves all the praise it gets, it's Live at Leeds. 

The last thing: ever since I heard it I have been a huge fan of the edit of Sparks for the movie Almost Famous. It combines Amazing Journey and Sparks and makes for a fantastic listen under 4 minutes of brilliant music.