Early Days And Latter Days (The Very Best Of Led Zeppelin) [ECD] - Led Zeppelin > Reviews > Reinforcement

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Groundbreaking
Lyrics	Thought-provoking
Quality and consistency of tracks	Flawless
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Outstanding
Value for Money

Advantages:	Simply magnificent
Disadvantages:	None

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

This album reinforces the fact that Led Zep are one of the greatest bands of all time and does so in some style. The opening tracks are taken from the first album and gently prepare you for what lies ahead. Obviously after 30 years these tracks have aged but they still sound great compared to the mince regularly being served up by inferior wannabes. The guitar solos are a joy and show that Page is one of the best if not the best guitarist ever. In particular the solo on Whole Lotta Love is the best of all time and the original is miles better than the butchered theme to Top of the Pops. Robert Plant redefines what is required of a rock vocalist and is also a good songwriting partner for Jimmy Page. The throbbing rhythm machine is provided by bassist John Paul Jones and John Bonham. Jones provides a beat but also doesnt wilt under the lead guitar and has probed an inspiration to many bassists over the years. When it comes to drumming Bonham is Keith Moons only rival.
After the first few albums Zep became a peerless musical unit and all the songs prove that. The album includes Black Dog which was used on the tv show shooting stars. RocknRoll simply pulsates with a furious bassline and all the other Zep trademarks. The album builds to an incredible climax in two classics-Stairway to Heaven and When the Levee Breaks. This is a must own as well as Led Zeppelin 2 and 4 as well as Physical Graffiti. A feature of the cd isthat if you put it in your pc it has video footage of the band performing Communication Breakdown. Marvellous!