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Face Dances by The Who, released in 1981, marked a significant transition as it introduced drummer Kenney Jones, replacing the late Keith Moon. This album saw the band blending their classic rock sound with new wave influences, showcasing tracks like ‘You Better You Bet.’ It represents The Who’s resilience and evolution, delivering a fresh yet introspective musical journey.
The year was 1981, and The Who, one of rock's legendary bands, embarked on a creative endeavor that would shape the landscape of their discography—the release of "Face Dances." Following the tragic death of their iconic drummer Keith Moon in 1978, the band faced the challenge of redefining their sound with the inclusion of drummer Kenney Jones.
"Face Dances" marked a departure from the band's earlier hard rock sound, incorporating elements of new wave and synthesizers. The album's creation unfolded against a backdrop of both excitement and uncertainty, as the band navigated the intricate dynamics of adapting to a new member while striving for a fresh musical direction.
Pete Townshend, the band's guitarist and principal songwriter, played a pivotal role in shaping the album's thematic depth. His introspective lyrics delved into personal struggles and the complexities of the human experience. Songs like "You Better You Bet" and "Don't Let Go the Coat" showcased a more mature and refined musicality, resonating with both existing fans and a new wave audience.
Despite facing initial skepticism from some die-hard fans, "Face Dances" achieved commercial success and marked a significant chapter in The Who's evolution. It was an album that encapsulated the band's resilience and ability to adapt, proving that even in the face of loss, they could create music that resonated across generations.
Notes: "Face Dances" was the first full new album The Who made with drummer Kenney Jones as a replacement for Keith Moon.
Rock
POLYDOR 2311 065 (GEMA, Made in West-Germany, 1981 Polydor International Gmbh)
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1981 & Country: West-Germany
Produced by Bill Szymczyk
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Roger Daltrey – lead vocals
Pete Townshend – guitar, keyboards, backing vocals, lead vocals on "I Like Nightmares", "Somebody Saved Me" and "How Can You Do It Alone (Live, 1979)"
John Entwistle – bass, backing vocals, lead vocals on "The Quiet One"
Kenney Jones – drums
The front cover of Face Dances by The Who is an iconic and visually striking design. It features a grid of 16 portraits, each painted by a different artist, representing the band members. Each row showcases varied, artistic interpretations of Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle, and Kenney Jones. The portraits range from abstract and surrealist styles to more realistic depictions, reflecting diverse artistic approaches. The title, ‘Face Dances,’ is subtly printed across the top in a minimalist font. This cover symbolizes the album’s exploration of individuality and adaptation, blending artistic creativity with the band’s evolving identity in the early 1980s.
The record label for Face Dances by The Who, released in 1981, is a perfect example of Polydor’s classic and minimalist design. Pressed in West Germany, the label features a striking red background with contrasting black text, presenting the album’s essential details in an organized and elegant manner.
At the top, the Polydor logo, with its distinctive semicircle, takes center stage. Below it, “THE WHO” is prominently displayed, followed by the album title, Face Dances. The left side features the “GEMA” rights management mark and “Made in West Germany,” reflecting the European origin of this pressing. To the right, the catalog number “2311 065” is displayed alongside “STEREO” and “33” RPM, providing key identifiers for collectors.
Encircling the label is a German legal disclaimer that prohibits unauthorized duplication, rental, or reproduction. The production credit, “Produced by Bill Szymczyk,” is subtly included at the bottom, recognizing the work behind this iconic release.
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