The album marked his transition from flashy instrumental icon to well-rounded recording artist, downplaying sonic pyrotechnics in favor of a song-focused ensemble approach that would lay the groundwork for his successful solo career.
Rough Mix was released in September 1977 while the Who were on hiatus. It was a collaboration with Small Faces bassist Ronnie Lane and features contributions from Who bassist John Entwistle, Eric Clapton and Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts.