By SEAN LOUGHLIN

For At The Shore, (609) 272-7017

The Who at Borgata

WHO ARE THEY: Who are they? Only one of the most influential, popular and successful rock bands in history, that's who. The four distinct personalities of Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle and Keith Moon helped create casino chaotic scene stage shows and brilliantly written rock 'n' roll masterpieces. As a key component of the British Invasion, The Who initially achieved fame with hits like "I Can't Explain," "Substitute" and "My Generation."

In 1967, the band scored its first American Top 10 hit with "I Can See For Miles." An appearance at the legendary Monterey Pop Festival helped to secure their status as musical icons. After going into a brief seclusion, Townshend emerged in 1969 with the concept album and rock opera "Tommy," which was a massive critical and commercial success. The Who picked up the pieces of an aborted concept album called "Lifehouse," delivering "Who's Next" in 1971. The album was a smash and featured the hits "Baba O'Riley," "Won't Get Fooled Again," "Behind Blue Eyes" and "Bargain."

After creating another rock opera, "Quadrophenia," The Who released "Who Are You" in 1978. Unfortunately, the success of the album was marred by the tragic death of Moon in September of that year due to a drug overdose. The band chose to carry on and have remained a successful live touring act ever since.

WHAT TO EXPECT: While some hardcore fans believe The Who died along with Moon in 1978 and others believe they should have called it quits following the 2002 death of Entwistle, the band has proven an amazing resiliency in the face of hard times. The tragedies, triumphs and confusing times have only made the duo of Townshend and Daltrey stronger.

Twenty-five years after their last studio album of new material, The Who are back with a great new album and an exciting new tour. So what if half of the band is dead, you're still going to get a tremendous night of great rock 'n' roll. They may not be blowing up drum kits or trashing the stage quite like they used to, but Daltrey and Townshend can still bring it and rock out with the best of them. Fans can expect to hear plenty of tracks from "Endless Wire" as well as the classics that have made this band one of rock 'n' roll's greatest.

WHAT'S NEW: The Who's new album, "Endless Wire," is their first release featuring new material since 1982. The album continues on many of the themes addressed in previous Who releases and has received excellent critical reviews.

WEB SITE: www.thewhotour.com

SHOW INFO: Tickets are $97, $247 and $297. The show begins 8 p.m. Friday, March 9, at Borgata's Event Center.