The Who tribute album features an interesting selection of guest appearances and most of the songs work pretty well. It opens with a solid version of “Eminence Front,” featuring John Wetton (Asia, King Crimson) K.K Downing (Judas Priest) and Derek Shernian(Dream Theater, Black Country Communion). The only major dud on the album is Nektar and Jerry Goodman’s version of “Baba O’Riley.” Musically it’s not that bad but the vocals are tough to listen to. There are some real gems on the album including “Magic Bus,” featuring Peter Noone,(Herman’s Hermits) Peter Banks, (Yes) and Ginger Baker (Cream). Another great one is Gretchen Wilson and Randy Bachman’s version of “Who Are You,” which boasts some amazing vocals and great guitar playing.
The album ends with an incredibly rocking version of “The Seeker” featuring Mountain’s Leslie West and former Rainbow vocalist Joe Lynn Turner. Surprisingly, it’s West that handles lead vocal duties with Turner on backgrounds. It’s a version that makes you want to crank the volume to eleven as soon as it comes on. Other honorable mentions include faithful renditions of “The Kids are Alright,” by The Ravonettes and “Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere” by Todd Rundgren and Carmine Appice. Fans of The Who will definitely enjoy this new tribute album, there is enough superb material to warrant adding it to your collection.
