The Who

The British branch of Polydor released the double-album compilation The Story of the Who in 1976. It was the most exhaustive collection yet assembled, running from the group's early singles through Who By Numbers. Exhaustive doesn't necessarily mean comprehensive -- for some reason, Quadrophenia is completely overlooked, and a full side of Tommy material is way too much in this context. Also, some great songs, such as "A Legal Matter" and "Join Together, " are missing, which may frustrate some listeners. Nevertheless, what is here -- "Magic Bus, " "Substitute, " "Boris the Spider, " "I'm a Boy, " "My Generation, " "Pictures of Lily, " "The Seeker, " "I Can See for Miles, " "Pinball Wizard, " "Behind Blue Eyes, " "Slip Kid, " and "Won't Get Fooled Again, " among others -- is terrific, making The Story of the Who a worthwhile sampler and good introduction to this seminal band. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide