Two thousand fans had a chance to see the direction pop is taking when The Who gave a concert at the Bristol Hippodrome last night.

Fresh from their American tour, The Who contrasted past hits such as Substitute, Happy Jack and I'm a Boy with the ambitious pop opera Tommy.

Despite thunderous amplification, Tommy showed a strong jazz influence without the pretensions of free-form, and its driving pace was occasionally slowed for muted effects.

Combined

Even without the long hair, leaps and microphone twirling, The Who's music would still be arresting. Some of the chord sequences have undeniable power and drama.

Lead guitarist Pete Townshend combined the strongest stage presence with poignant runs and bare-chested vocalist Roger Daltrey has the range to wring the bluest notes. Bass John Entwistle and drummer Keith Moon built up the relentless rhythms.

Unexpected smoke bombs gave an almost appropriate air of mystery as the show ended with Generation.