The Who, featuring core members Roger Daltrey, 81, and Pete Townshend, soon to be 80, proved they can still rock at a recent concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Unlike Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones, who rely on extensive touring support, this performance was a special event for a UK charity.

The concert had its imperfections, which ultimately enhanced the enjoyment of the stellar moments.

The band demonstrated they still have the ability to rock, even sixty years after their initial top-ten hit, although with a touch of age.

Daltrey performed his signature mic throws, albeit shorter and more horizontal than his iconic vertical throws.

Townshend performed his signature move a number of times.

Daltrey’s voice remained strong, overcoming past vocal issues. He delivered powerful high notes in “Love Reign O’er Me.”

Townshend’s guitar work was impressive, displaying unique style and precision.

The Who, supported by a capable backing band, played early hits, including the ironically titled “My Generation.”

The rock opera “Tommy” received a shortened treatment, perhaps due to Daltrey’s recent vision and hearing challenges.

Quadrophenia, another rock opera, was explored in greater depth, possibly promoting the upcoming ballet adaptation.

However, “Who’s Next” was performed in its entirety, including “Bargain,” “Baba O’Reilly,” “Behind Blue Eyes,” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again.”

While the synthesizer parts may have been pre-recorded, the powerful duet on the “Blue Eyes” line was particularly impactful:

“And if I swallow anything evil, put your finger down my throat. And if I shiver, please give me a blanket. Keep me warm, let me wear your coat.”

Townshend, recovering from recent knee replacement surgery, acknowledged his discomfort but persevered, even playing half the songs seated.

Daltrey’s malfunctioning earpiece caused him to halt the show, humorously comparing his audio experience to hearing The Troggs instead of The Who. Townshend quipped about the show’s previous success.

Despite their well-known past disagreements, Daltrey and Townshend displayed a mix of banter and affection towards each other and the audience.

Townshend jokingly referred to The Who as “geriatrics who pretend to be young,” while thanking the audience for their long-standing support.

The audience’s age skewed older, but the presence of younger fans offered hope for the band’s continued relevance.

The concert felt like one of the final performances from rock and roll’s second great generation, following in the footsteps of Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan.

Attending these farewell shows is both enjoyable and a privilege.

Alongside later hits like “You Better You Bet” and “Who Are You,” the band played “The Song is Over,” a track Townshend said they’d never performed live, despite its critical acclaim 54 years ago.

The performance of “The Song is Over” was extraordinary and fitting.

As Townshend played and Daltrey leaned heavily on the microphone stand, they sang:

“The song is over, the song is over. Excepting one note, pure and easy, playing so free, like a breath rippling by.”

Despite the song’s message, it’s hoped that The Who’s musical journey is not yet finished.

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