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"Do what thou wilt so mote it be" archaic English which, translated, reads: "Do what you want so you may be".
Lofty phrase, of Crowleyian origin, skillfully inscribed between the grooves of the vinyl of this full-length from the Zeppelin.
We are in the countryside of Bron-Y-Aur, in Wales. Having left behind the explosive Hard Rock of the first two albums, this third effort by the Zeppelin is a blend of folkish emotions.
The four rediscover their origins, savor English folk, and give life to an acoustic mix of exquisite beauty. The platter opens with "Immigrant Song", an indescribable bomb that will inspire more than half of Heavy Metal, with a gallop by Page fully backed by Robert's voice. Epic atmospheres that make you want to join Thor in fighting evil spirits!
"Since I've Been Loving You" is the other masterpiece, over 7 minutes of poignant and elegant blues-rock. Bonham is more violent than ever, Plant's voice reaches frightening emotional peaks, surrounded by Page's usual virtuosity, here particularly inspired.
The rest is a delightful rustic, almost pastoral, accompaniment. Cheerful folk ballads with epic/medieval lyrics reveal the softer side of the English quartet, without detracting from the overall quality of the performance: the riffs are there, the solos too, the "group" as well. That combination of emotions, notes, and words that make the soul vibrate with every listening, as the Zep have accustomed us to.
The very delicate Tangerine, played on tiptoe by every member; the engaging Bron-Y-Aur Stomp, which echoes a mix between the Wild West and a medieval tavern; Out of Titles, with an unforgettable riff (also used for live shows in Black Dog, by the way).
From this album onwards, there will be a turning point: new melodic choices, new rides, different ways of interpreting rock. The Zeppelin will never be the same again!
In short: masterpiece, absolutely enjoyable... Better with a glass of wine in the open countryside ;D
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