Greatest Hits Live - John Entwistle

Throughout the '70s, the Who would take extended hiatuses, usually while Pete Townshend was cooking up another complex concept work (1973's Quadrophenia) or readying a movie (1975's film adaptation of Tommy). During these periods, bassist John Entwistle would often occupy his down time by playing solo shows -- one of which serves as the basis for Greatest Hits Live. Although the set was released in 2003, it is a show from the '70s (originally broadcast as part of the King Biscuit Flower Hour series) that is documented here. While Entwistle's solo albums didn't always adhere to a strict "hard rock" policy, he did on-stage, as standout rockers from both the Who and his solo career -- "Heaven and Hell" (which is wisely played à la the Who's Live at Leeds version, not the flat Smash Your Head Against the Wall version), "My Size," "Whiskey Man," "Boris the Spider," and "My Wife" -- are included. Also rounding out the set is a nearly 15-minute interview with the late/great Entwistle. While not as over the top as the Who prior to Keith Moon's death, Entwistle's group from this era had no problem cranking out the hard rock, as evidenced throughout Greatest Hits Live. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide