The relatively plain stage set was flanked by two huge video screens. A running slide show featured shots of band members, including the late drummer Keith Moon, in their early days.

The audience was squeaky-clean, 30ish, and obviously fans — they were mouthing words along to the songs.

The backup band, which had drawn criticism in earlier concerts on the tour, seemed to work here, probably because the "Tommy" album contains relatively complicated orchestral arrangements, at least by rock and roll standards.

By the time the Who launched into the final song of the rock opera, "We're Not Gonna Take It," the crowd was on its feet and the band was in a groove. "Tommy" clearly meant something special to both musicians and audience.

The second half of concert was wild. People were on their feet, screaming as the Who went through 20 songs in little more than an hour. Townshend was jumping around, the band was really up. Under these circumstances even lesser songs like "You Better, You Bet" sounded good. By the time they launched into a couple of classics from "Who's Next," the place went nuts.

Townshend was windmilling, Daltrey was stomping across the stage, flinging his mike, and for a minute you almost could have sworn it was the good old Who.

The Who will appear at the Oakland Coliseum Stadium at 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. They will do a full-length show, with portions of "Tommy." While Tuesday's show has been sold out for weeks, some tickets are available for the following night, the final date of the tour.