I realize this isn't about gear, but I think it qualifies as "High end", and I suspect/hope that many of you will appreciate this... I had the good fortune of attending last night's tribute to Ahmet Ertegun headlined by the legendary LED ZEPPELIN in London. It's difficult to describe how just how good these guys were... and to preface, I consider myself to be a serious fan, but I never had the chance to see them when I was younger - so this was one of those things that I promised myself I would do if opportunity ever came about...
I really tried to keep my expectations modest, thinking at first it would be a smaller, limited set - it was after all a charity event in honor of the amazing Ahmet Ertegun - but alas, the mighty Zep did a "proper gig", and provided the audience with an experience of a lifetime. They played for our nearly 2 1/2 hours, and they most covered most every tune I was hoping for ... all the classics! And whilst they played of the tunes in lower keys to accommodate Mr. Plant, he certainly still "has it". The orchestrations were superb, and my god... Jimmy Page... nuf said.
Kasmir, Stairway to Heaven... ok this the first time I've ever shed tears at a rock concert! Nobody's Fault but Mine, Black Dog, Rock & Roll, The Song Remains the Same... (pretty much the Mothership playlist)
Jason Bonham... more than honored his father. He was amazing, and it was touching as it was clearly an emotional experience for him, and the guys were oh so gracious in expressing their gratitude in return. After the last encore, Jason came onto the stage, gets on his knees and bows to the guys... classic moment!
I was also pleased that from a technology/gear perspective, nothing over the top. They used their traditional Orange amps; Jason's drum kit was a modern day Ludwig version of dad's configuration. John Paul opted for some newer kit with a Korg Oaysis... he's such a cool cucumber! The mix was fantastic.
It was also a great experience to see so many happy people from all over the world in the audience - as you can imagine, everyone was on their feet throughout. I was also fortunate to be an invited to one of the after parties, and we carried on (open bar - woo hoo) inside the O2 until 3A... so I'm still a bit dazed, but not confused.
I realize words can't do justice to this type of experience, but honestly if these guys end up touring in 2008 (I suspect it would very limited), do whatever you can to see them... We owe so much to their contributions, and what a fitting way for them to rewrite their Swan Song!
Apologies if this comes across as sappy, but I wanted to share this with you, and simply say THANK YOU to Led Zeppelin, Ahmet Ertegun, and everyone that made last night possible!
stike
