The Who

In late 1965, The Who were riding high on the waves of their burgeoning fame, following the release of their debut album *My Generation* in December 1965. By the time they recorded "Smokestack Lightning" at the Starlite Ballroom in Greenford on October 29, they had already solidified their place in the British rock scene, known for their explosive performances and raw sound. This live recording, part of a French documentary titled *Les Mods*, captures the band in their prime, showcasing their trademark energetic style and innovative spirit. An interesting tidbit is that this period marked the band's experimentation with longer jams and more complex arrangements, hinting at their future evolution. It was also the year they famously destroyed their instruments on stage—a daring act that set the tone for rock theatrics to come. Just imagine being in that crowd, witnessing music history unfold!

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