LED ZEPPELIN III

So the lads decided to take the dogs and bongs to the country for some quality time around the firepit. Who can blame them? I'm certain it was probably the most idyllic moment in the collective memory of the band, being away from the madness and making magic music in the "small derelict cottage" that painted a "somewhat forgotten picture of true completeness." [notes Page at the time] So what were the musical achievements? One of the most listenable album for older fans who burned out on 2 and 4 in their youth. A nice mix of rock, country and blues. A gem.

Immigrant Song, Celebration Day, and Out on the Tiles are rather straightforward Zep rockers, Celebration Day having a great solo. Friends and Gallows Pole are dark acoustic numbers with a very dramatic sense of foreboding and imagination. That's the Way and Bron-Yaur Stomp comprise the fireside sing-along segment of the album, the former featuring some delicately beautiful guitar and rather introspective lyrics by Plant standards. Hats Off to Harper features those vocal distortions I've always hated though it has some nice guitar work. That leaves the two stellar tracks: the obvious being the great blues number Since I've Been Loving You, which is preferable live of course. The less obvious trophy here is the gorgeous, under the radar Tangerine. Listen to it again sometime with fresh ears. Melodically wistful with the kind of trademark page solo that makes him my favorite guitarist. Nothing wrong with simple when it sounds like this.

3 will always be overshadowed by its brothers 2 and 4 but I will probably always play it more than those two. Not essential but certainly recommended for most rock collections. Around 3 ½ stars.