IN THROUGH THE OUT DOOR

Despite the dislike this album usually garners, I actually prefer it slightly over their previous Presence. It is far removed from the raw, heavy-metal inflected self-titled albums, but has an interesting combination of sounds and styles which makes this a noteworthy listen.

'In the Evening' is probably the highlight of the album, and is rich in melody and riffs, but also its somber tone. It is also noteworthy for the use of synth.

If it wasn't for Robert Plant's very unique and recognizable voice, 'South Bound Saurez' could have been mistaken as a song from another band. It really doesn't sound anything like early Zeppelin, which could of course could be a positive or negative. If nothing else it is a good point as to the evolution the band had achieved through their short tenure.

'Fool In the Rain' is based around a killer groove from John Bonham and is certainly one of the band's more quirky songs, especially with the extravagant middle section and synth work.

'Hot Dog' at best could be described as a Western-tinged tune unlike anything the band has ever done. Again, an interesting incorporation of a different style, but too simple for my tastes.

'Carouselambra' is yet another odd song with a slow tempo marked with an echoing, synth-ridden atmosphere.

'All of My Love' is probably a more standard Zeppelin tune, with a heavy reliance of riffs and solos, but isn't too terribly interesting otherwise.

The final song 'I'm Gonna Crawl' contains a balanced combination of keyboard and guitar, but is again, not very interesting.

Unfortunately, it's too bad to see such a great band leave off on such a low-note. While this album contributes to the diversity Zeppelin has achieved in their songwriting, it misses out on what made them so great in the early 70's

4/10