“The Who” Bid Farewell with Style and Rock That Can Still Roll – Photos and Review of “The Who” Concert at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida

If you are a music fan and skeptic like myself, you have inadvertently developed an automatic eyeroll when a band or performer announces retirement or a ‘Farewell Tour.’ It is the common thing of late, which is not surprising or unique. The glaring fact is, we are all getting older and the musicians we admire/admired throughout our lives could not stop time. Well, Cher can or certainly turn it back, but I digress. Of course I have been to countless ‘Farewell Shows.’  I shall not name those artists, as I have gone back for more than my fair share. They know who they are. However, this evening in scorching hot Sunrise Florida (not a metaphor, it’s 105 degrees in the shade), this really is The Who’s swansong.

Photos by Ariel Feldman

The name of the tour says it all – THE SONG IS OVER – THE NORTH AMERICAN FAREWELL TOUR. Blunt for certain and well deserved. Although the band is half of its original square parts, Keith Moon and John Entwistle being our dearly departed; lead singer, Roger Daltry (81) and guitarist, songwriter, Pete Townsend (80) hit our fine town with an opening night for the ages.

Photos by Ariel Feldman

Icons, legends, elder rock statesman, may all fit one of England’s greatest music trailblazing bands. However, accomplished musicians may suit them best. Since forming in 1964 as one of the premiere bands of the original British Invasion, The Who have inspired a generation with their high-octane Rock and masterful Rock Operas. On this tour, rounding out the rhythm section are Scott Devours (drums), Simon Townsend, Pete’s brother (guitar, mandolin, backing vocals), Loren Gold (keyboards, backing vocals) Jon Button (bass), and John Hogg (backing vocals).

Photos by Ariel Feldman

The 20+ song set included mostly their greatest hits, starting with “I Can’t Explain.”  “Pinball Wizard,” “Baba O’Riley,” “Who Are You,” “My Generation,” “See Me, Feel Me,” and a rousing “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” (Daltry’s high scream included) left no doubt among the packed arena that The Who can still rock. Daltry still sounds as good as he ever did and Townsend remains one of the master’s when it comes to guitar. Even Pete’s famous windmills were on display while Roger swung a microphone once or twice.

Photos by Ariel Feldman

There were a couple of sound glitches Daltry had to contend with, but being the ultimate pro, handling the issue with style and humor. Of course, the show had a nostalgic tone.  Many of tonight’s concert goers wore The Who concert shirts from years past, and the screen behind the stage was filled with images of the original band and their journey. Bands of this caliber don’t need to rely on fancy staging or the glitzy style of some performers.  Good ole fashioned rock’n’roll, backed by incredible players and a song catalog like The Who’s, make evenings like this a joy to experience.