I spent some time yesterday reading a few blog posts, but focused mostly on the voluminous fan commentary.   The overwhelming consensus was NEGATIVE, but for different reasons.  Many accused Jimmy Page of “selling out” whilst others accused Robert Plant of being “callous”…  as if rejoining was obligatory?  Amazing…  Many aficionados argued that Led Zeppelin died with John Bonham (1980), or that Robert Plant was no longer capable of delivering the demanding vocal range.   Of course, many pointed out the less than stellar prior Zeppelin reunions, even calling into question Plant’s performance at the 2007 London 02 tribute concert for Atlantic Records Chairman Ahmet Ertegün.

First, I must acknowledge that experiencing Led Zeppelin “live” was way up there on my bucket list because I was too young to see them in their prime.  When the London 02 concert was announced, I knew I was going to attend, regardless of cost – and I did! I figured the likelihood of an immediate follow-up tour was fairly low, and that a lot could happen during ensuing years including looming senior citizen status for a few of the gents.  Today, my decision to attend continues to appear more like an investment than an expenditure!

By all accounts, the London 02 show was a brilliant performance, but I can tell you first hand that it was an even more powerful experience.   As for Robert Plant singing out of key… rubbish.   Not only is pitch correctable with technology – employed by nearly all live artists – but the acoustics in that size of auditorium makes it indiscernible to human ears.

Live performance creates a unique experience – it is a real-time interaction between the band and its audience.  For Zeppelin, the persona and presence of Robert Plant is an immutable part of the equation – the song remains the same, but the experience does not.   Fact is everyone is entitled to their opinion on this, but speaking for myself, I had the same reaction with the Paul Rodgers/Queen team-up…  Sure, they played Queen’s music, but it wasn’t Queen without Freddie.  And it’s not just limited to rock bands: talk to anyone who experienced The Phantom of the Opera with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman.

For whatever reason, it appears Robert Plant will not be a part of a Led Zeppelin reunion tour, and I would encourage people to give him some benefit of doubt on this one.  Perhaps he shares the opinion of world renowned marketing guru, Seth Godin: “Be Exceptional or Quit“…  Whatever his reason, I not only admire his resolve, but also respect it.

That said, I really really hope the London O2 show eventually gets pressed into a DVD!  It was an amazing EXPERIENCE, and oh yeah, the music was pretty f*cking good too!

Full Article from The Sun, UK

But now, this is apparently being disputed by the Man himself…

Robert Plant sets the record straight

I was one of the very fortunate few that attended the Dec ‘07 London O2 show, and let me again reiterate that I have never experienced anything remotely close – and I’ve seen my fair share.   It goes without saying that this is unfortunate news, but not really a surprise as Robert Plant has never swayed publicly on this topic.  Nevertheless, still unfortunate because millions of adoring fans have been anxiously awaiting official word, one way or another…

With news like this, I continue to reflect on my 02/London concert experience as a wise investment vs. a frivolous expenditure!

Click to Expand/Collapse Rush at the Nokia…

Click here to Expand/Collapse Hiromi at Ronnie Scott’s…

Jordan is to keyboards what Jimmy Page is to guitars. He is regarded by most as the best in the business (today)… Talented beyond belief, yet Humble beyond expectation. It was great seeing him and the other DT guys after the show! Special thanks to Jordan’s keyboard tech Robert Dorion for making it happen and inviting us to hang out on the tour bus (VERY NICE). I think Greg and I were the last to leave the after show party somewhere around 3A? A very good night… What about the concert? Nothing short of another remarkable performance!

Click Here to Expand/Collapse some Concert Pics…

 On the Jazz front, Hiromi is back on the road as is Chick Corea – I plan to take in both of those shows somewhere between here and Europe during 2008! Also planning to see the Stone Temple Pilots show in LA – seems that everyone is coming out of retirement these days!

My intrepidation was furthered in the opening seconds of “Good Times Bad Times”. As you may have read, microphone feedback plagued Robert Plant as he assumed the position, and the band honestly appeared a little dazed and confused… BUT about a minute into the opening number, this incredible energy took over like afterburners on a jet… no joke. The body language changed, the mix was dialed in, and they didn’t stop to refuel for two of the most unforgettable hours I’ve ever experienced.

Honestly, I can’t bring myself to write a detailed “play by play” as many of you have requested because I now realize that, for me, Monday night was about an opportunity to release emotions I’ve harbored for way too many years (waiting for THIS to FINALLY happen). I also believe that’s what it was about for the band as well… coming full circle.

Beyond virtuosic musicianship, Led Zeppelin conveyed tremendous humility and moving expression throughout their performance… They not only played for the audience, but for one another; and of course, Ahmet. Most touching of all was the emotion expressed to and from Jason Bonham – nuf said.

For those still insistent on the details, here’s the BBCs take:

And, here’s the most accurate review I’ve read thus far (and I think the musicians amongst you will appreciate the overtones)

Rolling Stone Review

To top things off, my concert mate and newly made friend, Matteo and I were extended an invitation to the “after party” through a strange but welcomed twist of events. And this was a proper party! We took advantage of the open bar and food until 4A? What I know is that the sun was rising by the time I stumbled back into my hotel, and a 24-hr “recovery period” was required before attempting to put this together…

My final answer? The most riveting, energizing, and moving (rock) concert I’ve ever experienced.