RECAP: Who’s Next @ Cohoes Music Hall, 10/12/2024

Written by Staff on October 15, 2024

Words and Photography by Stephanie J Bartik.

On October 12, Who’s Next rocked the Cohoes Music Hall, delivering a performance that brought the timeless energy of the Who’s legendary catalog to life. The band, made up of Doug Zahn, Bill Canell, Richie Sav, and Will Shelley, fully embodied the original members of the Who, creating an unforgettable experience for the audience.

Doug Zahn took on the role of Roger Daltrey, bringing not only his powerhouse vocals but also Daltrey’s iconic stage presence to the forefront. With every swirling, air-bound microphone swing and commanding pose, Doug channeled the essence of the rock icon. His intensity matched Daltrey’s, and his voice seemed to echo the raw, rebellious sound that made the Who a rock and roll staple.

Meanwhile, Bill Canell stepped into the shoes of guitarist Pete Townshend with undeniable force. His performance featured Townshend’s signature windmill arm guitar shredding, a gesture as famous as the songs themselves. For diehard fans of the Who, Bill’s attention to detail was a thrill. He even used numbered guitars, a nod that any true fan of Townshend’s work would recognize. The audience felt the familiar crash of the chords as Bill’s guitar playing echoed throughout the hall, evoking the same intensity and aggression that Townshend brought to the stage in his prime.

Behind the drum kit, Richie Sav paid homage to the late, great Keith Moon. Known for his wild style and explosive energy, Moon was one of rock’s most chaotic drummers, and Richie captured that unpredictability perfectly. His drumming kept the pulse of the night alive, driving the set with relentless power and precision. There were moments when it felt as if Moon himself had come back to life for the evening.

And, of course, no tribute to the Who would be complete without honoring John Entwistle, also known as “The Ox” or “Thunderfingers.” Will Shelley, playing the part of Entwistle, lived up to these iconic nicknames. His fingers flew across the fretboard in a blur during his solo, leaving the audience in awe of his technical prowess. His deep, rumbling bass lines held the music together, just as Entwistle’s did, grounding the frenetic energy of the band with smooth, melodic mastery.

From the moment the first note hit, the band had the crowd hooked. Some audience members danced in the aisles, while others sat, mesmerized by the music. The setlist was packed with fan favorites, including classics like “Can’t Explain,” “Who Are You,” “Pinball Wizard,” “We’re Not Gonna Take It,” “See Me, Feel Me,” “Eminence Front,” “You Better You Bet,” and the epic “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” Each song transported the audience back in time to The Who’s heyday, as the band captured both the spirit and the sound of the original group.

For those who were there, it was a trip down memory lane, a chance to relive the glory days of one of rock’s most influential bands. If you’re a fan of the Who, this tribute band is an act you simply can’t afford to miss. Their energy, attention to detail, and sheer passion for the music make them a must-see for any rock enthusiast.

Be sure to check out their Facebook fan page to see where you can find them performing next.

Gallery from the show: