Led Zeppelin
When I first coined the phrase Heavy Metal Thursday on an internet discussion board long ago, Led Zeppelin was right there among the very first rants. You don't call yourself a fan of Classic Hard Rock or Heavy Metal and dismiss or disrespect Led Zeppelin. Save that for the pretentious know nothings at Rolling Stone magazine, who famously "didn't get it," when Led Zeppelin debuted on this day in 1969, describing Jimmy Page as a "weak, unimaginative writer," a producer of "limited ability," and the album as talent "wasted on unworthy material.' What a dumbass. I quoted him. If you need the source then go find him for yourself. This isn't Freshman Composition or the New York Times.
These visual rants we produce here at Heavy Metal Thursday are just that; rants with photos and videos. This ain't journalism or groundbreaking research. We are literally doing what we love. So we'll crank out reviews when we see fit and celebrate favorite album anniversaries and important rock star birthdays when we feel like it's necessary.
Recorded in the fall of 1968 in London, "Led Zeppelin," the self-titled 1969 debut album, is arguably one of the most important Rock albums of all time. Nevermind the fact that before '69 was over, Led Zeppelin would release their triumphant sophomore offering, "Led Zeppelin II," another masterpiece.
The whole thing starts with "Good Times Bad Times." Power chord intro, heavy guitar vocal call and response, cowbell fattened precision drumming and groovy bass guitar playing. This one song, alone, contains the key elements of everything that is Hard Rock and Classic Heavy Metal. It IS Heavy Metal Thursday. You don't start a garage band with your friends without learning a few Zeppelin covers. John Paul Jones and John Bonham are easily argued to be the greatest rhythm section of all time. Jimmy Page and Robert Plant are the archetype of the Rock & Roll guitar god and front man.
"Led Zeppelin" is a fantastic album from start to finish; rearranged American Blues songs, folk music standards and original works blend together perfectly. The template is solid and diverse, setting the stage for a variety of themes and experimentation with multiple stringed instruments and tuning in the future.
It's been 50 years since the debut of "Led Zeppelin," and the praise, criticisms and accolades are well documented, widespread. Scholars and accomplished rockers, alike, have already said just about all there is to say about this kickass album. Heavy Metal Thursday is two dudes who love the music and try to keep it simple. Check these out....
Babe I'm Gonna Leave You
Dazed And Confused
Watch this full video when you can, especially if you've never seen "The Song Remains The Same." This is a brilliant showcase of Led Zeppelin, in their prime, pulling out all the bells and whistles.
Communication Breakdown
I Can't Quit You Baby
"Led Zeppelin" is 50 years old and is as hard and relevent as ever. It's meant to be heard front to back. Loud. Your momma don't have to like it.