The Who – Quadrophenia

I recently picked up the 2011 vinyl reissue of Quadrophenia by The Who, and I’m thoroughly impressed with the overall quality of the pressing. First and foremost, the vinyl itself is incredibly quiet. There’s minimal surface noise, even between tracks, which allows the music to shine without any distractions. The soundstage is wide and dynamic, and the instrument separation is outstanding.

One of the standout features of this pressing is the clarity of Keith Moon's drums. His performance on this album is legendary, and on this vinyl version, his explosive drumming really cuts through the mix. The bass guitar is also very prominent and well-defined, giving the entire album a nice, full sound that compliments the band's energetic performance.

The vocals, however, are somewhat lower in the mix on certain tracks. While this may be a point of contention for some listeners, I found it to be no issue at all. The vocals still come through clearly when needed, and the slightly recessed placement adds to the overall balance and texture of the sound. It feels like the instruments and mood of the music are being given the space they deserve.

The instrument separation on this pressing is excellent—each part is distinct, whether it's Townshend's guitar work or the swirling keyboards, making it a joy to listen to from start to finish. The album’s complexity, particularly on the sprawling "The Rock," benefits from this level of clarity, as every instrument can be picked out and appreciated.

Overall, this is a fantastic pressing of Quadrophenia. The quiet vinyl, punchy drums, clear bass, and excellent separation of instruments make this an enjoyable listen for both audiophiles and casual fans alike. I’m very happy with this purchase and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to experience this classic album in its best vinyl form.