The Who
The Who Live Performance of Summertime Blues at Kilburn Concert
In the vibrant tapestry of The Who's career, the live recording of "Summertime Blues" at Kilburn on December 31, 1977, marks a poignant moment. Just before this performance, the band had released their album "The Who by Numbers" in 1975, which explored themes of personal introspection and vulnerability—quite a shift from their earlier, more bombastic sound. The Kilburn concerts, filmed for the documentary "The Kids Are Alright," were not just a showcase of their talent but also the last hurrah for drummer Keith Moon. Given that the band hadn’t played live for about a year leading up to this, there was a palpable tension mixed with nostalgia in the air. It’s fascinating how, even in a state of relative disarray, The Who managed to channel their raw energy and spontaneity, reminding fans of the electric performances they were known for. This era was as much about legacy as it was about music—an unforgettable snapshot of an iconic band at a crossroads.