John Entwistle: Dry Humor, Sharp Playing

“This is a song I wrote when I was successful,” former Who bassist John Entwistle wryly informed the audience at the House of Blues on Tuesday as he introduced “Success Story,” the sardonic slice of rock star life from the Who’s 1975 album “The Who by Numbers.”

Although none of Entwistle’s solo work really rivals his Who legacy, he remains one of rock’s premier bassists, not only because of his staggering technique, but also the personal flair with which he demonstrates it. Throughout the set, which was dominated by Who material, the understated Entwistle displayed a sense of humor as dry as his playing was sharp.

Planted on stage in his signature stoic demeanor, Entwistle spun graceful and powerful bass lines. Drummer Steve Luongo, singer-guitarist Godfrey Townsend and keyboardist Alan St. Jon did an admirable job of generating the volatile energy necessary to bring such Who classics as “The Real Me” and “Long Live Rock” home.

The set also included a handful of songs from Entwistle’s new album “The Rock,” a limited-edition collection that is being sold at his shows, record store appearances and by mail order (information: [914] 528-0900). There was also a Keith Moon number and two songs that the Who made their own in concert over the years: Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues” and the Pirates’ “Shakin’ All Over.” The latter escalated into an extended sparring match between Entwistle and Luongo that brought the evening to an exhilarating close.