Album Info
| Artist: | The Who |
| Album: | The Who By Numbers |
| Released: | US, 1977 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Slip Kid | 4:35 |
| A2 | However Much I Booze | 5:07 |
| A3 | Squeeze Box | 2:39 |
| A4 | Dreaming From The Waist | 4:05 |
| A5 | Imagine A Man | 4:02 |
| Piano - Nicky Hopkins | ||
| B1 | Success Story | 3:20 |
| Piano - Nicky Hopkins | ||
| Written-By - John Entwistle | ||
| B2 | They Are All In Love | 2:59 |
| Piano - Nicky Hopkins | ||
| B3 | Blue Red And Grey | 2:46 |
| B4 | How Many Friends | 4:03 |
| B5 | In A Hand Or A Face | 3:20 |
| Piano - Nicky Hopkins |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"The Who by Numbers," released in 1975, is the seventh studio album by the iconic British rock band The Who. Known for their explosive live performances and ambitious concept albums, The Who took a more introspective turn with this release. The album is often seen as a reflection of the band's internal struggles and the personal challenges faced by its members, particularly guitarist and primary songwriter Pete Townshend.
Unlike the grandiose rock operas "Tommy" and "Quadrophenia," "The Who by Numbers" is more stripped down and personal. The album's themes revolve around Townshend's feelings of disillusionment, aging, and the pressures of fame. This introspective nature is evident in tracks like "However Much I Booze," where Townshend candidly addresses his struggles with alcohol, and "Dreaming from the Waist," which explores themes of frustration and longing.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Squeeze Box," which became a hit single. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics about a family accordion player gave it a light-hearted feel, contrasting with the more somber tone of the rest of the album. "Squeeze Box" reached the top 10 in the UK and the US, showcasing The Who's ability to craft accessible rock songs even amidst personal turmoil.
Another notable track is "Slip Kid," which opens the album with a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency. The song's lyrics reflect a sense of entrapment and the desire to break free, a recurring theme throughout the album. "Blue, Red and Grey" is a tender, acoustic piece that stands out for its simplicity and heartfelt lyrics, offering a moment of introspection and vulnerability.
Critically, "The Who by Numbers" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics appreciated the raw honesty and introspective nature of the album, while others missed the grandiosity and conceptual ambition of the band's earlier works. Over time, however, the album has been re-evaluated and is now appreciated for its lyrical depth and the insight it provides into Townshend's state of mind during this period.
The album did not win any major awards, but it holds a significant place in The Who's discography as a transitional work. It captures a moment of introspection and vulnerability, offering a glimpse into the personal struggles of one of rock's most celebrated bands. The album's cover, designed by John Entwistle, features a connect-the-dots drawing of the band members, adding a playful yet poignant touch to the album's presentation.
"The Who by Numbers" is culturally significant as it marks a period of change for The Who. It was released during a time when the band members were grappling with the pressures of fame and the changing landscape of rock music. The album's introspective nature and exploration of personal themes resonate with listeners who appreciate the more human side of rock legends.
In conclusion, "The Who by Numbers" is a unique entry in The Who's catalog. It may not have the immediate impact of their more famous works, but its introspective nature and honest portrayal of personal struggles make it a compelling listen. The album stands as a testament to The Who's ability to evolve and adapt, offering a raw and honest reflection of the band's journey during the mid-1970s.
