Universal Vinilo y CD

Review: The Who's 50th Anniversary edition of Who's Next is being released in multiple formats and chief among them is this relatively short and succinct 4xLP version. Though four sides of vinyl isn't usually thought to be "short", this is a minimal incarnation of the reissued album, compared to the juggernaut CD and Blu-Ray box set which contains over 155 original audio tracks on it. This version is as comparatively minimal and monolithic as the 2001: A Space Odyssey monolith referenced on its front cover, though it's not still without its nice extra-album bonuses, 'Pinball Wizard' and 'Naked Eye' included.

Review: As part of the Who's massive reissue bundle of Who's Next, their most popular album, the half-speed remastered edition on vinyl makes for a relatively reserved version, compared to the mammoth CD box-sets full of demos and rarities also in tow. Primed for audiophiles - whose needs sometimes cross over with, but are no less distinct from, that of collection completists - this version of the album is special in that the original tapes have been re-treated using a half-speed remastering process, which enhances the sound quality and clarity of the original recordings. What's more, this version was done at Abbey Road Studios, of all places, with the process overseen by acclaimed engineer Miles Showell and from tapes prepared by Jon Astley.

Review: With all-time rock anthems like 'Won't Get Fooled Again' and 'Baba O'Riley', it's perhaps no wonder Who's Next is The Who's best selling album, but it's no commercial compromise. Songs like 'Behind Blue Eyes' are as raw and visceral as the foursome ever were, even compared to much of today's indie music. The 50th anniversary reissue package at large has dug up 89 unreleased demos and rarities for the completist collector, but this vinyl edition concentrates on the album itself and is all the more powerful a listen for it.