News

On November 12th Universal will release numerous versions of The Who's Tommy, including "Deluxe" as well as "Super Deluxe" editions as well as the original configuration on double 180g vinyl. The press release doesn't divulge the vinyl source, who mastered or who is pressing.

Universal does score an "incomplete" here as usual, but I suspect the source is the Jon Astley digital remix-remaster and that would probably be at Pete Townshend's behest. Mastering? Who knows but Universal often goes to United in Nashville so even though this is analogplanet let's go to the real goodies here including in the Super Deluxe box a 5.1 channel surround mix on a Blu-ray disc and more importantly an album of demos and outtakes as well as a live "bootleg" album featuring 21 previously unreleased tracks from live 1969 "Tommy" performances that together reproduce the original album and concert. Also included is an 80 page book, an essay and a facsimile "Tommy" poster.

The high-rez "Pure Audio" surround mix is probably the same one used for the SACD issued some years ago, but that's speculation. Speculation is what happens when press releases don't deliver the real goods that you and I want to know.

Because the double vinyl is probably from the digital remaster and that's probably how Pete and Roger wish the record to be remembered, it's unlikely the original mix will ever again be reissued, though I hope I am wrong. If that's the case, Classic Records' reissue from the original tapes was the last. It was very good too, but there's nothing like an original UK Track pressing to set your hair on fire and your heart racing.

That said, the "Live Bootleg" (disc two of the "Deluxe" 2 CD set) is something I'd like to hear. I saw The Who do "Tommy" twice during that tour. Those were two never to be forgotten performances. The first at The Boston Tea Party was in front of a few hundred people. I stood close enough to have to look over my shoulders to follow Roger's microphone swings (at least that's how I remember it). The second time was at The Boston Armory a few months later. I was dating a gal on the B.U. social committee and got to sit in the front row. I took a tab of acid and I still remember the whole show (or think I do)!

There may be some giveaway contest opportunities here so stay tuned!