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Too often, the story of rock musicians is one of creative and personal decline (as it was with Moon). But the Who proved that, as a unit, it ultimately controls its own destiny.

Sunday's concert, although scrappy in spots, was full of the sustained drama and tension for which the band is known.

The song selection was largely predictable, but there were some surprises. The quartet played five songs from the 1973 concept album Quadrophenia, atypically jamming in the codas of the potent "5:15" and the poignant "Love Reign O'er Me." The rhythmically complex "Eminence Front" from It's Hard was an unexpected highlight.

Although the band has played better in its previous St. Paul appearances, there still isn't a better live rock act. Guitarist/leader Pete Townshend made up for his unusually subdued stage presence with generous guitar solos. Roger Daltrey, although lacking the range of his best days, sang with unflinching intensity. Bassist John Entwistle, passive as ever, continued to prove himself peerless.

But surprisingly, the biggest impression was made by drummer Kenney Jones, who clearly was intimidated when he took over Moon's kit for the 1979-80 tour. Never hailed as much of a technician during his stint with Rod Stewart's Faces, Jones is now making a bid to be recognized as rock's best drummer. Although no match for Moon in improvisation, Jones' precise, original rhythms provided the consistent foundation the band needed in its weaker moments, such as off-key harmonizing on "Long Live Rock".

As for the new album, it is thankful that the Who has a strong swan song (although the band may have one or two more albums on the way). After the erratic By Numbers and Who Are You and the atrocious Face Dances, many fans had despaired of getting consistently good material out of the Who again.

It's Hard, while lyrically simplistic in spots, features unique song structures and imaginative playing. "Eminence Front" and "I've Known No War" in particular are worthy additions to the Who catalog.

Now, if the band's recent converts will only go back and discover the early Who albums that started all the fuss.