From an artistic standpoint, the songs on the Who’s first album amply proved that Pete won the argument with Roger regarding the band’s direction. R&B quickly receded from the band’s repertoire, but surprisingly, the net result was much more democratic.

Pete wrote all of the hit singles for the band, but the other bandmembers supplied their own input as well, for better or worse. Pete’s songs moved the band toward a decidedly ‘pop art’ direction, which allowed freedom for Roger, Keith and especially John to contribute their own ideas. Even at this early stage in the Who’s career, you can sense that Pete’s art school education is supplying the band with a momentum that is based on more than the songs themselves. The Who were quickly becoming something very different in the world of rock and roll, utilizing theme and theory as aspects that were integral to their music.  

Featured songs include;

It’s Not True

I’m a Man

A Legal Matter

Instant Party (Circles)

The Girls I Could’ve Had

As Children We Grew

My Own Love

Just You and Me, Darling

Substitute (demo)

Substitute

Waltz for a Pig

In the City

I’m a Boy