Record Reviews

LED ZEPPELIN ~ DVD WARNER MUSIC VISION 70198 (Barcode: 603497019823) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 - 1979 Released: 2003 Considering the fact that this is the only available filmed document of the illustrious career by Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, the greatest rock band in history (other than their pseudo-documentary film The Song Remains The SameFind albums with this title), it immediately achieves a legendary status of the Holy Grail proportions. This double DVD set was compiled by Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist in 2003 and released as a companion to the 3 CD live set How The West Was WonFind albums with this title. Why did the fans of the band had to wait for so long for this magnificent music remains a mystery (probably having a lot to do with corporate music business bullshit), but better late than never seems to be appropriate here. Much better (than never) in fact, as this marvelous set presents over five hours of never previously seen archival material spanning the entire 11 years of the band’s existence: 1969-1979. The main feature of the first DVD is the legendary 1970 Royal Albert Hall concert, which features the band at the peak of their first musical phase (spanning the last days of Page with the YardbirdsFind albums by this artist, the formative days of Led Zeppelin and up to the release of their second album). Page demonstrates the absolute command of guitar and the revolutionary use of the bow to squeeze outlandish sound effects from the instrument. Robert PlantFind albums by this artist takes the vocal parts way beyond anything previously attempted and his jazz like staccato exchanges with Page are breathtaking. John BonhamFind albums by this artist provides a metronome and yet innovative rock solid rhythms and John Paul JonesFind albums by this artist uses the bass and organ to fill in the spaces, ornament and put the cheery on the cake. In short if I had to explain to a Martian what rock is all about I’d need little more that a copy of this DVD to go by. The second DVD features live performances from the 1970’s: 1973 Madison Square Garden, 1976 Earl’s Court and 1979 triumphant UK tour, which was sadly the last time the band played together before Bonham’s death the following year – each and every one a magnificent piece of musical history. In addition a collection of shorter clips, amateur footage and TV performances are also included. This stuff is truly bigger that life and the nonchalant title seems most appropriate in this case – probably the best way there is for anyone to spend his money on music.

DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend