LED ZEPPELIN III

This is the magical album where Led Zeppelin started their unique eclectic musical journey, and so became an interesting band for open-minded progheads. Because the band decided to embellish their pivotal blend of R&R, hardrock and blues with a lush instrumentation and a folky touch. JP Jones played an important role in Led Zeppelin's new sound, he turned from a bass player into a multi-instrumentalist (bass, guitars and 'vintage' keyboards). But also Jimmy Page contributed hugely by not only playing the electric guitar but also a range of acoustic guitars. Another interesting element was John Bonham, no longer only a powerhouse drummer but also showing his great sense for timing and playing assorted percussion. And, last but not least, singer Robert Plant rose to the occasion, singing even more powerful bul also showing his beautiful mellow side.

1. Immigrant Song (2:25) : On this opener (still )no signs of another musical direction, what an exciting rock and roll atmosphere featuring a thunderous guitar riff and a steamy rhythm-section, topped by excellent vocals.

2. Friends (3:54) : A folky atmosphere with catchy acoustic guitars, Bonham delivers assorted percusson, Plant warm vocals and JP Jones surprises with captivating strings arrangements. The sultry atmosphere reminds me of their classic Kashmir, also oriental sounding.

3. Celebration Day (3:29) : Heavy rock and roll , coloured by fiery slide guitar, Page impresses again!

4. Since I've Been Loving You (7:23) : One of their best tracks ever! It starts with sensitive bluesy guitar and mellow Hammond organ (evoking Ten Years After), then a great build up featuring howling guitar runs, emotional vocals, the climax delivers an moving guitar solo, awesome drums and Plant in its full splendor.

5. Out On The Tiles (4:07) : Another strong Jimmy Page catchy and heavy guitar riff, with powerful vocals and a propulsive rhythm-section, this is trademark Led Zeppelin.

6. Gallows Pole (4:56) : An example of the 'new Led Zep' with exciting propulsive acoustic rhythm guitar and powerful bluesy vocals.

7. Tangerine (3:10) : What a beautiful ballad featuring warm acoustic rhythm guitar, tender vocals, halfway howling electric guitar runs and then the distinctive steel guitar.

8. That's The Way (5:37) : Another fine example of the 'new Led Zep' with dreamy acoustic rhythm guitar and vocals, accompanied by the versatile JP Jones on mandolin, a wonderful folky atmosphere.

9. Bron-Y-Aur Stomp (4:16) : A favourite of mine, I am delighted about my guitar hero Jimmy Page on the acoustic guitar (reminding me of the underrated acoustic virtuoso Rory Gallagher). Also a great vocal performance and subtle percussion contribution by drummer John Bonham.

10. Hats Off To (Roy) Harper (3:42) : This song is a tribute to the Old School blues with fat slide guitar, inspired vocals and a hiss in the sound that coloures the music like a kind of sound collage, very special.

How impressive that a band can deliver such a high quality variety, from the heavy Immigrant Song and Out On The Tiles to the the compelling bluesy Since I've Been Loving You and folky Tangerine and Bron-Y-Aur-Stomp. A big hand for Led Zeppelin!