Everyone knows Peter Townshend. With over 15 years of experience as a songwriter, singer and leader, he is one of the most recognizable musicians in the world today. As a reluctant solo artist and a member of the Who, he has had a monumental effect on the course of modern music.

Reams of words have been penned about the remarkable range of sounds and emotions which Townshend has embodied and projected. From large-scale works like "Tommy" and "Quadrophenia" to the incredible stream of individual classics like "My Generation" and "I Can See for Miles," Townshend has regularly recharged rock with unmatched power and creativity. The end result always has been unsurpassed rock music.

In the course of the Who's auspicious career, Townshend only rarely stepped away from the framework of the group to record and perform as an individual. His first solo work was "Who Came First," basically a collection of bits and pieces, while "Rough Mix" was a collaboration with Ronnie Lane. His latest solo release, "Empty Glass," is the first fully-realized expression of his own music.

From the start, listeners should be aware of what "Empty Glass" is not. It is not a Who album with Townshend singing lead. It is not an eccentric side project from a musician seeking a separate identity from his group. It is not demos, odds and ends or esoteric out-takes. What "Empty Glass" is is the first major work by Townshend, one which will undoubtedly be ranked as a truly great rock album.

All 10 tunes on the album are Townshend originals. Contrast is the key element as a variety of moods and sounds are explored. Things kick off in grand style with the power rocker "Rough Boys," which is followed by the acoustic-based "I Am An Animal." "And I Moved" is a moody ballad, "Let My Love Open the Door" is very upbeat and "Keep On Working" has strong folk themes.

Fans of the Who's pure rock energy will no doubt favor such tunes as "Cat's in the Cupboard" and "Gonna Get Ya." As powerful as the other nine selections are, the true masterpiece of the album is the melodic title track.

Throughout "Empty Glass" Townshend's voice exhibits a previously unheard range and strength. Finally, a major musical figure has let us hear what he can do alone.