The Who – Live At Shea Stadium 1982 (Eagle Rock Entertainment)

Genre: Classic Rock

Timed to coincide with the peak of the band’s 50th anniversary celebrations – closing this year’s Glastonbury Festival – this 33-year-old film proves that while form is temporary, class is permanent.

There have been, believe it or not, a few decidedly ropey shows from The Who during the last half century. But this Shea Stadium spectacular isn’t one of them. Quality courses through the 25-song set from start to finish and stands as a timeless tribute to drummer Kenney Jones – on his final tour with the band.

Lined up to promote the It’s Hard album, there are a slew of tracks aired here that have rarely (or never) been heard live since. Sure, they’re not up there with the classics – and the album failed to dent the UK top 10 – but as an indication of The Who’s response to the changing musical landscape they’re a fascinating watch.

Pre-empting a seven-year hiatus from the live scene, the band’s 1982 tour gave fans a glimpse of a band reassessing its position within the pantheon of rock. Rippling with tension, self-confidence and apprehension all at once, Live At Shea Stadium is a key staging post in the journey of a remarkable British institution. Simon Rushworth

RUSHONROCK RATED: 7/10 Magical Shea Men