Rock Reviews

Quadrophenia

Review

One of the most underrated rock albums ever. I know it's a bold statement but I can't express it enough - it's often overlooked by the more well known Tommy or more popular Who's Next. But it's an album that is truly solid without fault from start to finish - of course there is no "perfect" album but there are so many classics.

The only songs decently well known are the "Love Reign O'er Me", "Real Me" (somewhat known) and "5:15". All other songs are not known too well - which is a shame. Outside of Helpless Dancer (which is still solid), all the other tracks are either very good or excellent.

There are differing opinions, but to me the strongest tracks are "Doctor Jimmy", "Real Me", "I've had Enough", "Drowned" and "The Dirty Jobs" - all rated a 9.0 or above. That doesn't even include an additional 6 songs between an 8.4-8.9. So that leaves just 4 out of 17 total tracks that are rated between a 7.8-8.3 and Helpless Dancer at a 7.4.

Let me also comment on two of the strengths that really make Quadrophenia so good. First is the flow - you can listen to just say "Sea and Sand" by itself and it's great, but it is such an experience to listen to both sides of Quad in one play - the songs are different and yet they seem to really flow so well. Secondly I will make another bold statement - of the albums I have listened to thus far, I believe this is the best drumming I have ever heard.

Especially in certain parts and songs, "Drowned" and "Sea And Sand" come to mind, the drumming is just downright ridiculous - Keith Moon is a beast, but it just seems like it's not possible for you to be hearing what you are listening to. The frantic pace and yet at the same time is orderly, it's just an incredible to listen to. The opening drumming to Bell Boy is also another notable performance.

Overall this is just an awesome album. Although I would not recommend it for the first album as a new Who listener (I'd recommend Tommy), but for everyone else it is an absolute must-have. Nearly perfect.

9.8

Songs