In the midst of a review, a song stands out....

["David" <davidp@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello, everyone,

Seriously or not, Bill O' Neil listed among his ten worst Zeppelin songs, a
number from Led Zeppelin II, "Thank You", and its shortcomings when
performed live.  I'm certain that that is likely true considering that the
jam interlude was often three instruments on the very top level of
expression and sometimes things didn't always mesh like they should.  This
was indeed a ballad of love, and the instrumental section was often
extremely epic in its musical delivery, sometimes leaving technique and
cohesion behind.

But I cannot say that of a performance of this song I listened to last
night while in the midst of my next review, April 7, 1970 in Raleigh, North
Carolina.  This may be one of the finest performances ever, with an
instrumental interlude stunning in its musical scope and power.  The
cohesion, technique and emotion are all there in this version, with a very
extended interlude.  Page reaches the high notes like a master, Bonham's
treatment on the drums can only be described as spectacular and the work of
John Paul Jones on the Hammond C3 organ brings the instrumental straight to
the soul.  Just an incredible performance and one I won't forget for quite
some time.  I was literally floored by it, and when it was over, all I
could do was shake my head in amazement at this group, moved almost to
tears by the emotional impact of the song.

That's what "Thank You" is all about--love of the most important human
being in your life and the musical symbolism of that deep commitment, with
heights that cannot be measured.  Led Zeppelin's performance of this song
on 4/7/70 carried with it all the emotions that our love for another must
bear and savor--the vulnerability, the worry, the commitment, the complete
joy, and the sexual intimacy that brings two souls together as one entity
of love in spiritual and physical union.  This is what Led Zeppelin music
is all about--it touches the soul.

If you or someone you know believes in the power and joy of love, please
find the time to listen to this performance.  It will touch you also....

A man who believes in love,


David