Robert Plant & Saving Grace Bid Farewell: A Night of West Coast Reverie and Zeppelin Echoes
Robert Plant’s recent performance with Saving Grace at the Hollywood Bowl wasn’t just a concert; it was a poignant farewell, a musical journey steeped in history, and a testament to the enduring power of song. The evening showcased Plant’s deep affection for American roots music alongside the iconic legacy of Lead zeppelin, leaving a captivated audience with a night to remember.
Plant consistently demonstrates a remarkable ability to connect past influences with present artistry. This show was no exception, offering a unique blend of covers and classics, all delivered with his signature vocal prowess and a palpable sense of gratitude.
A West Coast State of Mind
The setlist wasn’t simply a collection of songs, but a narrative. Plant took time between tracks to share the formative impact of West Coast musicians on his own artistic growth. he explained how,growing up in the UK,British music largely mirrored the sounds emanating from Chicago,Mississippi,and Memphis.
Though, the California sound offered something different. “These guys were changing the world,” Plant remarked, “and we were all starting to look at things and questioning governments and what the hell.” This reverence was beautifully illustrated by a longer-than-usual introduction to Moby Grape’s “It’s a Beautiful Day Today,” a track featured on saving Grace’s album.
Saving Grace: A Delicate Power
The band itself, Saving Grace, proved a perfect vehicle for Plant’s explorations. Their rendition of the traditional song “As I Roved Out” was especially striking. It began with delicate harmonies between Plant and vocalist Alison Dian, blossoming into a powerful sonic experience with the full band’s entrance.
Throughout the night, Saving Grace demonstrated a dynamic range.Highlights included:
* Low’s “Everybody’s Song”: A personal favorite from the Saving Grace album, the live version featured compelling shifting time signatures driven by drummer Tony Jefferson.
* Neil Young’s “For the Turnstiles”: This cover maintained the emotional weight of the previous song,showcasing Plant’s ability to inhabit another artist’s work.
* Led Zeppelin‘s “Friends”: Plant delivered the song with repeated, soaring vocal runs, reminding the audience of his legendary range.
Zeppelin’s Ghost & A fond Farewell
Naturally, Led Zeppelin’s presence was felt throughout the evening. But these weren’t mere recreations. Plant and Saving Grace breathed new life into the classics, offering fresh interpretations while respecting the originals.
The encore began with “The Rain Song,” a beloved ballad from Houses of the Holy. The response from the crowd was immense,exceeding even the enthusiastic reactions to earlier Zeppelin tracks.
The night culminated with a sprawling rendition of the traditional English folk song “Gallows Pole.” Plant and dian shared lead vocals, with Dian adding accordion to the driving acoustic arrangement.
What followed was a playful and joyous celebration of Zeppelin’s catalog. Plant seamlessly wove snippets of other iconic songs into “Gallows Pole,” including:
* “Whole Lotta Love”: He repeatedly sang “Keep it coolin’ baby,” prompting a roaring response from the audience.
* “Black Dog”: The entire first verse of “Black Dog” was incorporated, with Plant trading lines with the enthusiastic crowd.
As the band took their final bows,Plant expressed his gratitude. “We’re Saving Grace,” he stated simply. “that’s what we do.” It was a fitting conclusion to a night that honored the past, celebrated the present, and acknowledged a chapter closing.
This performance wasn’t just a concert; it was a masterclass in musical storytelling, delivered by a true legend. It served as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of American roots music and the timeless appeal of Robert Plant’s artistry.
