Search - Peter Scholes, London Philharmonic Orchestra :: Symphonic Music of the Who

How about a fair review of this record?

An Intelligent Reviewer | USA | 12/30/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Unlike other contributors to this page, I'm going to review this CD within the context of other records of this type.



You cannot expect a record like this to sound anything like the original, nor should it. The failure of records of this type occurs precisely when the arranger attempts to imitate the power and sound of rock and roll instruments. Within this particular genre of recordings, what I have just described happens too often.



What makes this record good is that the arrangements have truly been thought out for a symphony orchestra. The compositions have been entirely re-worked, rather than simply transcribed. This means that several of the songs deviate significantly in mood and pace from The Who's original recordings. This approach works surprisingly well, revealing the versatility and malleability of the music in question.



Unlike most other records of this kind, this one is actually a compliment to the originators of the songs, and a fine tribute. Possibly even better than `Us and Them: Symphonic Pink Floyd', and it definitely works much better than any of the "string quartet tribute" albums that I've heard. In the hands of Peter Scholes this music is fresh, interesting, and fun, but all in a very different way compared to the versions we are all used to hearing for the past three decades.



This recording is intended for people who enjoy both orchestral music and rock music in equal measure. If you believe that The Who's original recordings are "sacred" and should not be tampered with, stay away from this CD. But if you have a more open-minded view of music, then I highly recommend this. The price is a bit steep, but the arrangement of Baba O'Riley alone is worth the money, in my opinion. The title of the CD is cool, too.

"

Savor this music!

Paul J McDonald | San Francisco Bay Area | 02/12/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Certainly unorthodox versions of Who classics, these ten orchestral tracks still retain the powerful sound that is a Who trademark. The unique and thundering first track, Overture, is the first studio version of the opening number of Roger Daltrey's live shows. The energy of the CD remains high throughout, punctuated with the blistering final track, Listening To You. I don't understand the previous reviewers' low scores...it seems that the London Philharmonic has payed a fine tribute to what may be the greatest rock band of all time. It's been nearly two decades since we've heard new music from The Who...new versions of the old music is better than nothing at all. I wonder how well liked this offering is by John, Roger, and Pete?"

Orchestral Who - Little Power, Excitement, Or Glory

Paul J McDonald | 04/22/1999

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Kind of a low key version of the Who. You can't replace Keith Moon with TWO orchestras."